Eye Street Entertainment / 2 - 16 - 12 by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 16, 2012

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

Index Tour of the South buffet at BC ................ 26 26th annual Home and Garden Show...... 27 Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers ...... 28 Arts Alive .................................................. 29 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz ............ 30 Fresh Beat Band ........................................ 31 Damn Yankees ........................................ 32 Calendar .............................................. 36-37

Wild past is in your future Whiskey Flat tips hat to its colorful history BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Gunslingers, including Mario Arzola, center, with the Sours and Satins from Orange County, shoot up the streets in Kernville during the Whiskey Flat Days events in 2009. Between 40,000 to 50,000 people attended last year.

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nother four years, another election. And once again, two candidates will compete to buy, bribe and charm their way into office. No, it’s not that election (though some might argue the tactics are similar). This race will determine who becomes the swaggerin’, gun slingin’, yet still law abidin’ mayor of the wild and rustic town of Whiskey Flat. The name not ringing a bell? Think back. Way back to 150 years ago, when our Golden State was still in its tumultuous adolescent years; back to when gold was rumored to be in every lake, river, valley or quarry; back to when what we now know as Kernville was nothing but a sandy little mining settlement. While some folks might need a bit of brushing up on their California history to remember the whys and wherefores of how our state or town or county came to be, the good citizens of Kernville are well in touch with their western roots. And for four days each year, the community pulls together to recreate the town of Whiskey Flat as it might have existed well over a century ago. Whiskey Flat Days is easily the largest event hosted by the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, and “it’s also one of the largest four-day events in Kern County,” said Michelle Sweet, office manager for the chamber. “And each year, it keeps getting bigger.” Sweet put the number of attendees for last year’s festival at just shy of 50,000. The big-ticket attractions, like the parade and the Whiskey Flat Days Rodeo, both take place Saturday; but with charming activities like the epitaph contest and pet parade — not to mention all of the food vendors and local eateries — there’s something to do all four days. Most of the activities kick off Friday, which, according to some of the locals, is the least crowded day to go. Friday is also the day to indulge your competitive nature by signing up for one of the many com-

Kern County THE CALIFORNIAN

petitions held throughout the weekend, like the costume and Whiskerino contests.

But while you’re admiring the authentic Western re-enactment encampments or watching “Piea-la-Toad” and “Sir Richtoad” battle for victory in the Frog Jumpin’ Contest, two ladies will be running around like chickens with their heads cut off, trying to buy and bribe their way into the mayor’s office, where they will serve as the ceremonial leader of Whiskey Flat for the remainder of the year. “It’s crazy, and I had no idea what I was getting myself into,” laughed nominee Julie Brueggeman, who’s campaigning under the moniker Calamity’s Jule. “But it’s also a lot of fun.” Running for mayor is a considerably longer commitment than the four days of the festival. For six full weeks, both candidates have been traveling up and down the Kern River Valley, making appearances at businesses and Please see WHISKEY / 35

WHISKEY FLAT DAYS When: Friday through Monday; hours vary Where: Kernville; locations vary Admission: Free Information: 760-376-2629 Full calendar of events: kernvillechamber.org

Partial list of popular events Saturday 7 to 10 a.m.: Breakfast, $7 a plate, tickets at the door. Kern River Masonic Lodge, 562 James Road. Turn uphill past James Store. 11 a.m.: Whiskey Flat Days Parade, Grand Marshal, state Sen. Jean Fuller; Sierra Way and Kernville Road; awards given at 2:30 p.m. at Circle Park Center Stage.

12:30 p.m.: Concert by the River, with various acts 2 p.m.: First heat of the Frog Jumpin’ Contest held at Piute Drive by center stage. Watch “Pie-a-la-Toad” and “Sir Richtoad” compete, along with many more frogs; finals at 11:30 a.m. Sunday Sunday 11 a.m.: Concert by the River, with various acts 11:30 a.m.: Final heat of the Frog Jumpin’ Contest, Piute Drive by center stage. Noon: Signups for Pet Parade 12:30 p.m.: Old-Fashioned 1860s Costume Contest 2 p.m.: Old-Fashioned Whiskerino Contest 3 p.m.: Honorary Whiskey Flat mayor announced

Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Bakersfield’s Best Server contest

Service with a ready smile Language no barrier for Mauricio’s worker

NOMINATIONS

Editor’s note: On the hunt for the best server in town, The Californian solicited nominations from readers and received dozens of suggestions. The top 10 have been featured every Sunday and Thursday for several weeks. Today we reveal the final nominee. BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

sk server Octavio Avila for a cure to the work-week blues and you’re bound to get a smile, followed by a shot of traditional south-of-the-border hospitality. Regularly serving spicy delicacies and shaking cool drinks to perk up visitors at Mauricio’s Mexican Restaurant on White Lane, the mild-mannered favorite said he’s always up for a challenge. “When customers come in, I will always try my best to make them feel special,” said Avila, 31, who has worked at the restaurant for six years. “I’ve figured out what most people want when they visit us, but sometimes you have to develop your own personality to draw customers.” Spend a few minutes with the husband and father of three and you’ll understand what makes him so popular. While his perfectly pressed shirt, ready smile and humble demeanor help attract regulars, it’s Avila’s colorful personality that will draw you in. “I have a good memory, and try to remember what everyone drinks after their first visit. And I like to serve fast, not slow.” If you’ve visited Mauricio’s before you may already be acquainted with Avila, especially if someone happens to be celebrating a birthday or anniversary. Avila enters the room with a large decorative sombrero before launching into a bilingual birthday cheer. The server’s favorite part is the sing-along. “If someone is having a birthday at the restaurant, I like to start the group and try to sound like Vicente (Fernandez.) Then offer them a shot of tequila.” And while singing is one of his favorite hobbies, he also claims to be a pretty nifty dancer. “I took my wife dancing on our first date. I must have been pretty good, because we started as neighbors and ended up married.” That humorous side to Avila’s

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Octavio Avila, a 12-year employee at Mauricio's on White Lane, is a nominee for best server.

How to vote Now is your chance to vote for your favorite server in Bakersfield. Just go to Facebook.com/BakersfieldCalifornian, and all our Eye Street profiles will be posted on the “Notes” page (found on the left side of the page) for you to review. “Like” the profile of the server of your choice. The winner will receive four passes to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and a $50 gift card to Goose Loonies. Voting is open from Feb. 24 through March 2.

character complements his efficient working style, according to restaurant manager Silvia Manriquez. “Octavio is a favorite of ours and many customers who come in

every day. When he’s not here, we miss him.” Originally a bus boy and dishwasher who had little interaction with customers, Avila started out content with the position before becoming confident enough with his English to request a new position as a server. “It’s hard to come from the kitchen to the floor. My bosses were concerned I couldn’t speak clearly enough to be understood. My manager gave me two days a week to try it out.” Now heading into his seventh year as one of the restaurant’s most popular servers, Avila remains humble. “Many of my co-workers share the same life story as I do, and enjoy our life in the U.S. I feel very ‘feliz/happy.’” Admitting his English has room for improvement, Avila said his regulars help him to brush up.

“My customers also try to speak Spanish to me, so we always have fun during our conversations. I teach them and they teach me.” Another way Avila stays connected with customers is through the specialty drinks he enjoys mixing up behind the bar. Among them, the michelada: a mix of spicy Clamato, fresh lemon, and Tapatio hot sauce, chilled and shaken into a tall, cold beer. “You always have to make it extra spicy, and if you’re hungover, I’ll make you the perfect bloody Mary.” Back at home, Avila enjoys spending time with his wife, Ruby, and their two children, Octavio Jr. and Mia, and their pet pooches Milo and Abby. A fan of televised soccer matches, he also enjoys listening to the music of mariachi singer Vicente Fernandez.

From Helen Venosdel: With an infectious smile and outreached hand, Octavio never fails to greet us when we enter Mauricio's on White Lane. As we make our way to the favorite booth in the back, he readily points at each of us naming our beverage — including our special requests. Warm salted chips materialize and he seems to instantly appear with the drinks and the ingredients to make the best guacamole on the planet. On Tuesdays, he doesn't even have to ask for our order, but states, "three fajitas — one chicken, one steak, one combo — flour and corn tortillas." His service is extraordinary and he seems to sense when we need something or when are really finished with the visit. With thanks and good wishes, he bids us good-bye and wishes us well. Octavio makes dining at Mauricio's a fantastic experience. From Rita Murphree: It is better than Norm's welcome on the old sitcom Cheers! Octavio is very gracious and seems genuinely pleased to see our party of 3 each and every time we arrive at Mauricio's on White Lane. He directs us to our favorite booth and knows we'll be visiting and dining until early evening. Never in a hurry, but always prompt, Octavio knows exactly what we want in the way of beverages as well as fresh guacamole and warm chips to get the party started. The food is outstanding, and Octavio gives us plenty of time to visit prior to ordering. He is attentive without ever being intrusive, almost as if he has us on radar. Or, maybe Octavio is psychic. In either case, the friendly service Octavio provides, from the time we walk in to the time we walk out, makes our dining experience very special. Thanks, Octavio!

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 16, 2012

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Grits, greens ’n’ gravy: Food good for the soul Tickets going fast for black history buffet BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

After school program designed to develop performance technique, confidence in expression, musical enrichment and more!

any of the students who begin studying with Chef Pat Coyle at Bakersfield College are so new to the culinary world they’ve never sampled a decadent French sauce, aren’t sure what to make of goat cheese and need a few minutes to find Morocco on a map. Even more astonishing, most have never been to a Basque restaurant. But fried chicken? That, they know. And they’ll draw on their connoisseurship of the crunchy American staple next Thursday when they prepare a menu of Southern food favorites as part of the communitywide celebration called “Harlem and Beyond” in observance of Black History Month. Reservations are strongly recommended for the buffet, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the campus Renegade Room, which seats 80. Though Coyle had yet to finalize the Tour of the South menu when contacted late last week, he knows it will feature an assortment of salads and delicacies like grits, pork chops, chicken gumbo creole, black-eyed peas, collard greens and peach cobbler. The food is prepared entirely by the 20 to 30 students in Coyle’s buffet class. With one minor exception. “I will season,” Coyle said. “Students get a little heavyhanded on the cayenne and black pepper.” The Southern menu is a departure for Coyle and his advanced students, who usually focus on more traditional culinary school cuisines like French and Mediterranean. “It’s a home-style, comfort food kind of concept,” he said. “We try to give (the students) as much different cuisines as we can, so when they become a chef and a newspaper lady calls and asks what Southern or soul food is like, they’ll know.”

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Tuesdays and Thursdays, February 21st - March 15th, 5:30pm to 7:30pm Performance Sharing at Stars Dinner Theatre, Saturday, March 17th at 1:00pm For more information or to enroll, visit bmtstars.com or phone 325-6100 or 716-0316.

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Fried chicken: Apparently there’s a great debate raging in our country. Not the election. Not health care. Not same-sex marriage. No, according to Coyle, the question keeping chefs up at night is whether to use buttermilk while preparing chicken to fry. “I like buttermilk myself. You marinate it overnight in buttermilk and put it in seasoned flour. “Some people like to double-dip it.” Southern smothered pork chops: Do not get Coyle started on

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

BC Director of Food and Nutrition Chef Pat Coyle in the kitchen of the Renegade Room restaurant.

Tour of the South buffet

The Renegade Room

When: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Feb. 23 Where: The Renegade Room at Bakersfield College, 1801 Panorama Drive Cost: $11.95, plus tax. Beverages not included. Reservations: 395-4011

The Tour of the South buffet is just one of the many menus that will be presented this semester at BC’s Renegade Room, the campus restaurant staffed by students and run by Chef Pat Coyle, director of food and nutrition. A complete list of menus is available at bakersfieldcollege. edu/renegaderoom Lunch: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays; $7.50 to $7.95, plus tax Dinners: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; $11.95, plus tax

pork. An innocent though ill-advised question about the safety of undercooking it provoked a pained sigh and a mini-tutorial: “Don’t overcook the pork chops. People cook it well-done and it’s too tough to eat. Today’s pork is really, really good. It’s got to have just a little pink to it. When you pull it out, it’s still cooking.” Juicy or not, pork can only get better swimming in gravy, which Coyle’s students start after making their own chicken stock. “Usually a roux is made with butter and flour. In this case, if we have some bacon fat running around, we’ll use it for our roux, or maybe some duck fat.” Candied yams: Coyle is hoping to get them fresh. He’ll have his students steam, peel, cut them up and candy them with brown sugar and butter. He hasn’t made up his mind on adding nuts. What about toasted marshmallows on top? Not in Coyle’s kitchen. Grits: “The students probably have no experience with grits. Most haven’t taken breakfast cookery yet. I’ll show them how to do it. I’ve lived

in Texas and Alabama, and you get grits breakfast, lunch and dinner. “I’m not overly fond of them, but then I’m not overly fond of oatmeal either.” Collard greens: “We fix a good collard green here. We cook ’em slow. It’s not a 10-minute job.” Cornbread: “There are many, many ways to make cornbread. We might add some jalapenos, just to spice it up.” Peach cobbler: “We did some research on it. We’re going to put butter right into the peaches. Lots of cinnamon, lots of sugar. It’s a concoction of two or three recipes, and we’ll take the crust from the textbook.” Sweet potato pie: “I haven’t made that in awhile, but I have a couple of students in the class who will be very, very helpful because they’re from the South.”

Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

CALIFORNIAN FILE

Tony Flahive demonstrates the Sweepa, by Sunshine Kitchen Products, a multi-purpose rubber broom, at the 2011 Bakersfield Home and Garden Show.

No place like home show for ambitious DIYers BY GENE GARAYGORDOBIL Contributing writer

ig home-improvement plans for spring swirling through your head? Get your fixer-upper fix this weekend at the 26th annual Home and Garden Show at the Kern County Fairgrounds. Joaquin Rodriguez, general manager of the show for the past five years, says there will be hundreds of businesses, licensed contractors and vendors on hand to field questions and offer their services. “We have quite a few do-it-yourself folks coming out looking for a decent contractor, one they can trust with their money and home,” he said. “And that’s from a small remodel to adding a whole new addition to their home.” Rodriguez said the three-day show also offers several seminars from regular emcees Dale Edwards, the Sultan of Sod from Old River Sod, and Lindsay Ono, known as the Plant Professor, from Bakersfield College. However, Rodriguez said the two will be changing things up this year. Instead of focusing on just sod and turf, the pair will have special guests on hand to talk to participants about fruit trees and vegetable gardens. The majority of home and garden show attendees are between the ages of 35 and 55 years old, with more women participating, said Rodriguez, who has noticed another demographic group that seems to be growing in number. “We have many 20-somethings, a lot of whom are male, trying to get their lives started, maybe having bought a fixer-up home,” Rodriguez said. “And now they are trying to figure out how to get it fixed up for their next stage of their lives.” Though the economy is struggling, there are opportunities for home or property

26th annual Home and Garden Show When: Noon to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Where: Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. Admission: $7; $4 seniors; children 12 and under free; $4 from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday only

owners, Rodriguez said. “Right now, if you are looking to improve your home or property because you can’t sell it as is, you have the opportunity to get labor a lot less expensive than during the housing boom. And you can sell your house for a bigger profit.” But incentives, especially energy deals, are available even for folks with smaller home-improvement fixes. “For some of these air-conditioning units, you get a $5,000 rebate off the bat,” Rodriguez said. “So, you have people saying, ‘I can afford these prices right now and save on my energy prices later with updated appliances.’” Whatever the reason you attend, Rodriguez suggested people take advantage of the show’s first-ever Happy Hour Friday, from 4 to 7 p.m. The price is $4, instead of the regular admission of $7. No discounts can be used during that time. Why a happy hour? Rodriguez said in years past, people getting off work Friday afternoon would choose not to go the show because they had to pay full price for only a few hours. “Now, we give them a good price, and they can get more bang for their buck during those three hours,” he said.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 16, 2012

Eye Street

Gatlin voice still as good as ‘Gold’ 1980s country hitmaker talks music, politics, life BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

ith his handsome mug, radiofriendly hits and heavenly tenor voice — made even more sublime by the harmonies of his two younger brothers — Larry Gatlin was about the biggest thing in country music in the 1970s and ’80s, the “countrypolitan” era that blurred the lines between country and pop and was perfectly suited for Gatlin crossovers like “Broken Lady,” “I Don’t Wanna Cry” and “Houston (Means That I’m One Day Closer to You).” But it was another of Gatlin’s hits — which he and brothers Steve and Rudy will perform Wednesday at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace — that would come to define the “Urban Cowboy” years and transform this son of a Texas oil worker into a superstar. “‘All the Gold in California’ is our biggest hit,” said Gatlin, 64, via email earlier this week. “It solidified our career and made us household names. I’d love to have another one just like it. Singing it on ‘The Tonight Show’ and having Johnny Carson sing along — that’s heady.” But, like any genre, country music is cyclical and what is regarded as cool country-pop one day is derided as an affront to tradition the next. Which is pretty much what happened to the Gatlin Brothers and

Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers When: 7 p.m. Wednesday Where: Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Tickets: $31.50-$41.50. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

other hit-makers of the ’80s, when neotraditionalists like George Strait and Dwight Yoakam stormed the charts, armed with their fiddles, twang and steel guitars. But, as Gatlin discovered, there’s more than one spotlight in show business, and he seems to have located most of them. The performer turned to acting, playing himself in a movie about the life of Dottie West, who gave Gatlin a series of breaks early in his career, and landed the plum role of American humorist Will Rogers in “The Will Rogers Follies” on Broadway. Nowadays, Gatlin, a staunch conservative and outspoken Christian, is a regular contributor to Fox News. The married father of two grown children enjoys the same pastimes as many men his age: playing golf and doting on his grandchildren. In fact, he was with granddaughter Campbell when he fielded our questions: As you know, you’re coming to the land of Buck and Merle. How well did you know our Bakersfield Sound icons? “I didn’t know either one very well. Obviously, I am a very big fan of both. They

were pioneers, they are icons and, boy, could they entertain an audience. Old Hag is still at it. Way to go, Merle! Keep it up!” I see you and your brothers are playing several dates in Vegas. How extensively are you touring these days? “The bad news is that we didn’t take very good care of the millions of dollars we made, so we have to work. The GREAT news is that we love our job. The man (or woman) who loves his (her) job is always on vacation.” Describe what folks can expect at your concert: The hits? New stuff? Gospel songs? “We sing the hits. People want to hear the songs that made them our fans. We laugh and giggle and pick on people, goodnaturedly of course. And we pick on ourselves too. It’s entertainment, not church or school. Having said that, we will do some gospel and a couple of HEAVY songs.” What I find interesting is that during your commercial peak, your music was labeled “countrypolitan,” the implication being that it was country-lite. But if you listen to those hits, they sound way more country that what’s being played on the radio today. “We did it our way, and I bless everybody who does it their way. For those who criticize the ‘young guns’ in country music today, I would offer that, while it doesn’t sound like Buck or Merle, Buck and Merle didn’t sound like Roy Acuff, and Roy Acuff didn’t sound like Ernest Tubb. People need

PHOTO COURTESY OF LARRY GATLIN

Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers will appear on Wednesday night at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace.

to get over the ‘what is country music’ crapola and cheer for the old guard and the new guard. That’s my deal.” How is the country music industry different today than it was in the 1980s? “There is almost no ‘record business.’ Only the top eight to 10 acts sell product. We must use social network/Internet stuff in order to get our music to the masses. If Please see GATLIN / 35

An anchor of local theater ships out for dream job BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

inger/actor/designer Jason McClain, a long-time favorite of local theater, is leaving Bakersfield for what can only be described as a dream job: singing and dancing while sailing to exotic ports on an ultra-luxury cruise liner. McClain leaves Monday for San Francisco to begin rehearsals for his new job as an entertainer for Silversea Excursions, a cruise line owned by the Lefebvre family of Rome, Italy, and based in Monaco. “They’re pretty intimate cruise ships — only about 500 passengers per ship,” said McClain, who will be performing on the Silver Spirit, which, according to the company’s website, is the newest vessel in the fleet and the company’s flagship. McClain said he auditioned for the company in January. “In this particular case it was a case of ‘who you know,’” McClain said. “My brother-in-law was hired to play for the auditions, and he called me.” McClain said he was asked to

PHOTO COURTESY OF PETER BECKMAN

Jason McClain played the master of ceremonies at the Kit Kat Klub in the Stars Theatre production of “Cabaret.”

prepare an aria and a pop song and to come prepared to dance. “(The auditioning committee) said they were going to show my tape to the musical director — they liked me,” McClain said. “And they told me to stay available.” McClain said he was one of six

singers hired for the cruise liner. He will be performing in four regular stage shows, plus cabaret shows, which will feature his own material. “Those will be very much like the shows I would have done at Stars,” McClain said. Jon Johannsen, who has direct-

ed McClain over the course of decades, said McClain’s ability to sing classical and pop music, as well as theater music, should make him a featured performer. “It’s his versatility that needs to be recognized,” Johannsen said. Since receiving his contract a week ago, McClain said he has been buried in all the paperwork necessary for international travel. After rehearsals in San Francisco, he will fly to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and board ship on March 14. From there, he will sail first to Mexico and ports in South America, then to the Mediterranean until September. McClain has been part of the local theater scene since 1991 and has appeared at productions for Bakersfield Music Theatre, Stars Dinner Theatre, Bakersfield Community Theatre, plus shows around the valley and in San Francisco. He has also been much in demand as a solo performer. Among his favorite credits are starring in “Cabaret,” “Barnum,” “Into the Woods,” and “Lend Me a Tenor,” McClain’s personal

favorite. He is perhaps bestknown as Joseph in three heavily attended productions of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” “I easily performed to at least 20,000 people with just those three performances,” McClain said. In addition to his stage credits, McClain has worked behind the scenes as a set designer and director. He has taken those skills outside of the theater, starting his own design and event planning business, gogogo’design. McClain said if all goes well, he may get a shot at a production management position and a renewed contract, which would give him another six months at sea. But he said he’s not really cutting any local ties. “I had never (performed on a cruise ship) before, but I had considered it more than a few times over the years,” McClain said. “The timing just worked out; I’m not in a show right now, and I don’t have any big projects right now.”

Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Bringing black history ‘to life’ Artists’ work graces cineplex

he history of black people in this country is one of advancement, but there is no denying that progress has been punctuated with plenty of peaks and valleys along the way in the form of downright cruelty, unjust laws and harsh prejudice. “The Living History,” a re-enactment of that history, will be presented twice on Saturday at the Bakersfield Senior Center as part of the Harlem and Beyond project, a monthlong observance of Black History Month. Unlike a stage play, the show is divided into individual scenes, or stations. Each is located in different areas of the building, which also is the home of the Community Empowerment Organization, or CEO, sponsor of the event. “It’s like a walk through a museum,” said coordinator Genesis Nichols. “It’s bringing history to life as you walk through the different stations.” About 20 local residents are involved in presenting the show, which includes historic photos, film, songs, poetry, dramatic readings and original writings. The “walk” begins with pre-Civil War days when blacks were “owned” like property and humiliated in every way imaginable — whipped, physically abused and sold at auction to the highest bidder. It then moves on to their emancipation, the uneasy years of the Reconstruction period and the emergence of Jim Crow laws, to the civil rights era in the 1950s and ’60s and beyond. It includes success stories and biographical sketches of heroic figures. As part of the reenactment, Tarina Webster and Marshel-

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAYA CINEMAS

Maya Cinemas’ official dedication of artwork inspired by the movies takes place this afternoon. A second part of the contest will be announced as well.

GO & DO ‘The Living Exhibit’ When: 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday Where: Bakersfield Senior Center, 610 Fourth St. Admission: Free Information: 346-8304

Movie Art Winners Exhibit When: 4 p.m. today Where: Maya Cinemas, 1000 California Ave. Admission: Free Information: 636-0484

la Taylor will trace the lives of two women who may not be as well-known as some figures in black history: Mary Fields and Elizabeth “Bessie” Coleman. “These were extraordinary women (given) the challenges they faced,” Nichols said. “They achieved great heights dur-

ing their lifetimes.” Fields was born into slavery in Tennessee about 1832. After emancipation, she first got a job at a Catholic convent in Ohio. In 1884 when the sisterhood moved to Montana, Fields went with them. She helped the nuns build a mission and drove a wagon to haul lumber and other goods. “When she was in her mid-60s, (Fields) became the first African-American woman to be hired by the U.S. Postal Service,” Nichols said. “She delivered mail until she was in her 70s — that’s how she got the name ‘Stagecoach Mary.’” Coleman, a native of Texas, was born in 1892 and was the first woman, and the first black person, to obtain an international pilot’s license. But she had to cross the Atlantic to do it, since no American flying school would accept her as a student. “Before she went to France,” Nichols said “she

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

went to school in Chicago to become fluent in French.” After successfully completing her aeronautical training in 1921, Coleman returned to the U.S. and became a stunt pilot, or barnstormer, and competed in numerous exhibitions before her death in 1926 at age 34. Another part of the Saturday program will be the screening of “Strange Fruit,” a film made in 2008 by an independent producer and starring Kent Faulcon. Nichols said the movie is about a lynching in rural Louisiana “from an African-American viewpoint.” James Tyson, president of CEO, assisted in the planning for “The Living Exhibit.” CEO, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to providing educational and performing arts opportunities. It also offers a mentoring program and has a community choir and a band.

chose to highlight the glamour of Hollywood premieres of the 1930s with a detailed composition featuring a 1938 Packard convertible arriving for a gala opening night. And Patti Doolittle did a memorable and sensitive portrait of

Marilyn Monroe. Over the past few months, each of the winning paintings was photographed, enlarged and printed on vinyl by Don Mason Photography. The posters will remain at Maya through July.

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Movie poster installation Instead of zooming past Maya Cinemas this afternoon, you might want to pull into the parking lot and get a close-up look at the enormously enlarged artwork of eight Kern County artists. Installation of the framed 12-by-18-foot posters paintings is set for 4 p.m. today. The posters, which began life as 18-by-27-inch paintings, will be placed on the theater’s exterior walls. Most of the artists are expected to attend the ceremony. This is the culmination of a juried art competition co-sponsored by Maya and the Arts Council of Kern that began last fall. The contest was limited to only 20 entries. Of those, eight were selected: Ed Lloyd Gragg, Kevin Hardin, Audrey Jarvis, Don Trainor, Alison Beitzell, Patti Doolittle, Jeremy White and Caleb Kromer. To be eligible, subject matter had to be related to some aspect of the movie industry, such as characters from a film, actors’ likenesses or the movie-going experience. For example, Trainor

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 16, 2012

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Can’t stop the music at Gate Local venue celebrating 15 years of fun, decibels

akersfield all-ages music venue The Gate buzzes on weekends with the sounds of punk, emo, ska, indie and acoustic music while groups of young musicians and fans line the walls, wearing brightly-colored rock T’s and trendy fashions. It’s a welcoming scene, where area youth have found a place to socialize, dance and flex their independent spirit among peers. To commemorate the downtown venue’s 15th anniversary, the gang over at The Gate is planning a big two-day concert. Owned by The Garden Community Church of Bakersfield, The Gate was the brainchild of director and associate pastor Rob Allison, who envisioned a musical outreach program for youth. A veteran of the local rock scene, Allison already had years of experience under his belt as bassist for Christian heavy-metal band Traxter in the late 1980s. But the group disbanded in 1991, and Allison abandoned all musical goals to focus on marriage, family and his burgeoning pool-cleaning business. “I continued playing in church,” said Allison. “But music tastes were also changing, and my life was just moving in another direction.” Allison actually has music to thank for making him the family man he’s become. His met his future wife, Kathy, during their high school years at North High. “I always liked that he was in a band, and I was always supportive,” she said. “I was the band girlfriend with big rock star hair. We had fun together.” With his rocker past behind him, Allison never gave much

thought to returning to the stage, but after a heart-to-heart discussion with Garden pastor David Goh, he said the message was clear. “Pastor Goh told me about a vision he had about a new venue for local musicians before I came here, and that someone with my background would be bringing it together,” Allison said. “I saw that as a sign to me from the Lord to get back involved in the music scene.” While it was unclear at first exactly how he’d get started, Allison said things started to fall into place in 1994, when The Garden purchased the old YMCA building located a few blocks from the church grounds downtown. “We had the space,” he recalled. “I went out and did some research, checking out shows at Jerry’s Pizza that was doing quite well, and some other places. My whole desire was to take my experiences with live music along with much of the basics of what it is being in a band: learning to tune your instrument, doing a proper soundcheck, promotion, help develop a business mindset if that was a goal, and pass it on to the kids.” After a presentation to church elders, Allison was given the green light to begin the project, and on Feb. 21, 1997, The Gate was born with a debut featuring local bands Grean, Crushing Violet and Jumping Trains. “The church trusted everything to my hands,” said Allison. “A lot of people had such a bad image of rock bands, but we had a plan.” That plan included a series of rules, not meant to cramp the style of teenagers, but to ensure safety. No drugs or alcohol allowed on the property, and no profanity onstage. “I always go over the venue’s policies before each show with the bands. The cursing is probably the hardest for the bands to handle, but they do pretty well.” Over the years, The Gate has hosted not

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.

MICHAEL FAGANS / THE CALIFORNIAN

The Gate staff, left to right: Nate Wong; Mike Carlson, event director; Rob Allison, director; Kathy Allison, bookings; Emmanuel “Emanu” Fernandez, event director; and Cameron Warner. They stand on-stage before opening the doors for the audience on Friday night in Bakersfield.

only local shows, but big-name Christian and secular touring acts, including Unwritten Law, MxPx and Filter, and has been host to nearly every popular teen musical movement. “The emo years in the ’90s were huge for us. The kids who came were so devoted to the bands and the sound of the music, they would stay inside the venue for the entire show. We also don’t let local bands play longer than 35 minutes, because audience attention begins to wander.” Punk rock shows were also all the rage at The Gate. “Lots of kids blowin’ off steam, moshing. I draw the line at violence, but for the most part, the kids are very respectful. A lot of the bands, even the non-Christian bands, feel great playing here. They’re coming to a place with God’s presence.” Allison added the state of the scene has always dictated what gets booked at the venue. “It’s all about supply and demand. There are some years we’ve had three to eight shows a month, then some we have to find ways to fill in spaces.” After a successful 10 years at the former YMCA location, The Gate moved to its current location, on the property of The Garden. “We only stopped to remodel this space, but that’s all,” he said. “Our average crowds are still over 100 plus a show, and we max out at 200. Our sound has been upgraded, and the local community has helped buy all of it by supporting shows. A band’s pay scale is still determined by how

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GATE

Local band the Lebecs perform at the The Gate’s original location in 1997. Pictured from left are bassist Dan Phillips and guitarist Nick Gonzales. The band will be reuniting to celebrate the venue's 15th anniversary on Saturday.

many people they bring in through the door. We always work with them.” Allison has expanded his production team with help from event directors Emmanuel “Emanu” Fernandez and Mike Carlson. Kathy Allison, who works as a Please see LOWDOWN / 34

Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street The Fresh Beat Band appears Friday at Rabobank Theater. Pictured from left are Thomas Hobson, Tara Perry, Yvette GonzalezNacer and Jon Beavers.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICKELODEON

A beat that kids and parents can tap toes to Nick Jr. sensation bringing ‘much happiness’ to town BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

hey sing, shake and make households quake: It’s The Fresh Beat Band, stars of a highly rated Nick Jr. TV show. Popular with preschoolers and parents alike, the band is about to embark on its first nationwide tour, which includes a stop at Rabobank Theater on Friday night. For cast members Yvette GonzalezNacer and Jon Beavers, the opportunity to jump from TV to the live stage is something they’ve been anticipating since their debut three years ago. “There’s no other show quite like ours, so it’s great to be a part of something new, fun, bringing so much happiness to so many kids,” said Gonzalez-Nacer, 25, who plays Kiki on the show. “We’ve gotten off to a really great start, and it’s just an honor.” With quick storylines and musical numbers mixed in a fast-paced presentation, Fresh Beat’s show is perfectly tailored to the attention span of today’s tech-savvy young minds. Plus, they’re portrayed in human form, not through animation or underneath fuzzy costumes. “The most exciting thing about our show is that we teach kids that music is a form of self-expression and that it’s important that you have a ‘self’ to express, and that you’re gonna have a talent in you that is different from everyone else,” said Beavers, 27, who plays the DJ Twist. “It’s really exciting that so many people are willing to drop what they’re doing and come out and see us play live. The music is bringing us together.” They’ve already sold out Carnegie Hall and packed New York’s SummerStage in Central Park, spreading the Fresh Beat fever to all walks of life from average citizens to celebrities. “Everyone’s got kids, and whatever your kids are into is pretty important to you, too. I had Dave Grohl from the Foo Fighters come up to me after a show and intro-

The Fresh Beat Band When: 6:30 p.m. Friday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $18 to $37, plus service charge Information: 852-7777 or ticketmaster.com

duce himself to me — as if I didn’t know it was him. He really humbly asked me to take a picture with him. The same thing happened with Chris Paul from the Los Angeles Clippers. He came up to us in Washington, D.C. He was talking about how he does the dances in the morning with his son. All I’m thinking is, ‘When is it a good time to ask him to sign my jersey?’ It was a funny interaction.” To coincide with the tour, the group just released a 20-track CD collection featuring some of the show’s most popular numbers, including “Here We Go,” “I Can Do Anything” and “Just Like a Rock Star.” “After shooting 60 episodes, we’re glad to finally make these songs available,” said Gonzalez-Nacer. “The first couple of live shows we’ve done, we noticed everyone from the kids to the parents singing along to every word just from watching. That’s amazing.” Both understand timing is everything when producing a live show like this for such an energetic and, at times, temperamental audience. To ensure no one gets cranky, expect Friday’s energy level at Rabobank to be at full Fresh Beat throttle. Joining Gonzalez-Nacer and Beavers onstage will be drummer Tara Perry, who plays Marina, and keyboardist Thomas Hobson, who plays Shout on the show. “This is a new show we put together ourselves over the last month, with the creators of the TV show and some great choreographers,” Beavers said. “It’s a concert, not an episode theatrically presented,” added Gonzalez-Nacer. “It’s been overwhelmingly positive. Parents sometimes get even more excited than the kids, jumping to their feet at the end of the show. It’s such a lovely experience to see all that joy in the theater.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 16, 2012

Eye Street

Condors spread wings — and serve them, too BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL DOMINIC TEDESCO

Kelsey Thompson as Gloria appears with the Washington Senators in “Damn Yankees.”

Pinstripes in spotlight: ‘Yankees’ coming to bat BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

aust and Major League Baseball? Only a musical could bring those two ideas together, and that musical is “Damn Yankees,” which takes the stage at the Rabobank Theater on Monday. Based on Douglass Wallop’s novel, “The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant,” “Damn Yankees,” which opened on Broadway in 1955, was inspired by the Bronx Bombers’ World Series winning streak in the 1950s. The musical version centers on middle-aged real estate agent Joe Boyd, a diehard fan of perennial losers, the Washington Senators. Joe would do anything to see the Senators beat those “damn Yankees,” insisting all his team needs is one player. “I’d sell my soul for a longball hitter,” says Joe. In walks Mr. Applegate, who clinches the deal, albeit with an escape clause insisted upon by the business-minded Joe. So middle-aged Joe Boyd is transformed into strapping lad Joe Hardy, longball hitter extraordinaire, and the pennant race — and the race for Joe’s soul — begins. Joe has the time of his life as a ballplayer, but he misses his wife, Meg, who he has left behind in the deal. To make sure he doesn’t lose his “client,” Mr. Applegate sends in his own star player, the voluptuous Lola, to distract Joe from his memories. “I have the best role in the

‘Damn Yankees’ When: 7:30 p.m. Monday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Tickets: $26.50 to $46.50 Information: 852-7300 or ticketmaster.com

show,” said Sara Brophy, who stars as Lola. “I have wanted to play her for years.” The role was originated by Broadway legend Gwen Verdon, who along with collaborator and future husband, Bob Fosse, set the standard for Broadway dance and choreography for decades. Verdon won a Tony Award for her portrayal. “I think you find that Lola is a dancer,” Brophy said. “Every move she makes is full of meaning. “That’s something Verdon and Fosse did — every little detail told part of her character and story.” Brophy said the production, choreographed by Dennis Jones, reflects the skills of this cast. “There are people who can do backflips and such, and those skills are incorporated into the show,” she said. Lola’s partner in crime is Mr. Applegate, a character originated on Broadway by Ray Walston and played with devilish glee by Vincent Price and Jerry Lewis (!) on tour and in revival. Chris Winslow portrays Applegate in this production. “(Applegate’s) never actually referred to as the devil, but

everything points that way,” Winslow said. The Florida-based actor said he never expected to get the role, even after being called by the casting director from New York. “I couldn’t get there to audition and she told me to send a video,” Winslow said. “I put together a videotape; I didn’t think I had much of a chance.” Winslow, who calls this a “dream role,” watched performances by some of his celebrated predecessors. “The script and character as written are just great fun, he has a great song,” Winslow said. The touring company presenting “Damn Yankees” has been on quite a series of its own. According to company manager Walter Milani, rehearsals began in New York City on Dec. 26, followed by a week of technical rehearsals in New Jersey. The cast was opened its first show on Jan. 16, and from that time has been traveling throughout the United States, often performing for one night, as it will in Bakersfield, occasionally staying for a weekend. “It’s a rough tour,” Milani said. “All bus and truck, no flights.” Still, the cast is taking it all in stride. “Out of all the casts I’ve worked with, this one gets along the best,” Milani said. “And they pretty much take pretty good care of themselves as well.”

hat do a song, a skintight Tshirt and sizzling wings have in common? Those are three things you could expect from a Bakersfield Condor at the annual Tip-A-Condor event Tuesday. Food and music requests are par for the course at the popular community event, but the saucy uniform is inspired by the new venue: Hooters on Rosedale Highway. “Coach wants to put some of the rookies in the Hooters outfits,” said Ryan Holt, the team’s media relations and broadcasting manager. “It makes it a little bit more of a goofy night (having it at Hooters).” Owl shirts or not, players will serve from an abridged menu that includes the restaurant’s famed wings as well as a selection of burgers, pork and chicken sandwiches, quesadillas and a chicken salad. Meals come with a choice of sides and a soft drink. Of course, the real draw is the players themselves, with 25 assigned to about 30 tables. Erik Burgdoerfer, who’s in his second full season playing defense for the Condors, had a good time working last year’s event, which was at Fishlips. “It was a fun time for us, a good time to interact with fans,” he said. The interaction is a big part of all the Condors’ community events, especially this one, Holt said. “It’s always the highlight of our season away from the ice,” Holt said. “It’s not often that you get to interact with the players on a personal level. Fans really enjoy interacting with the players.” But “the players probably have the most fun of anyone. Whether they’re taking orders or posing for pictures. (For many), it’s their first chance to be a professional. They’re a little gun shy at being a celebrity.” Unlike some of his teammates, Burgdoerfer didn’t have stage fright last year donning one of the numbered aprons that were later auctioned off. “I waited tables as a kid, in high school. I was one of the few (at the event) who knew what to do with the notepad.” Last year, service proved difficult. “It was pretty much a mess for the first hour. All the orders came in at once. We had a lot of backing up in the kitchen.” The defenseman hopes that some of the restaurant’s iconic waitresses will be waiting in the wings — with the wings. “Hopefully there will be some girls to help us. Some moral support is always good.” Beyond serving, players may be asked by fans to perform small tasks to collect additional tips. “People enjoy making the guys do

Tip-A-Condor When: 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday Where: Hooters, 4208 Rosedale Highway Admission: $25 Information: 324-7825

things for tips,” Holt said. “Pick up a fork off the floor, ask for a refill, sing happy birthday to a fan, pose for pictures. “It varies from year to year. In the past guys have done karaoke, but I don’t think it will be on this year’s (schedule).” Even without a microphone, Burgdoerfer, who’s only had tip requests for photo ops and autographs, said you may be able to hear some Condors croon. “You could have some of the guys sing a song or tell a joke. I have no singing experience — just in the car. I know a couple of words to most songs though.” Comfortable serving or singing, Burgdoerfer also said he enjoys helping out. “One of my favorite parts is getting the tips and having them go to a good cause.” Tip-A-Condor benefits the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, which has received $132,474 from the Condors since the event began in the 1999-2000 season. Along with tickets and tips, the team raises funds through an auction. “Mike Hart from Channel 23, who does the public address announcing for us, will emcee,” Holt said. “There are tons of prizes and great memorabilia. Signed 2011 Stanley Cup Boston Bruins stick, signed jersey from Syracuse Crunch and a former head coach is sending a jersey from his team in Europe.” Holt promised more autographed gear as well as dinner-and-a-movie deals, items from sponsors and the latest design from Ryan Hanson, the Condors’ director of marketing and creative services. “He does our creative stuff. (He designed) a custom Condors mini fridge. It has the Condors’ logo and players’ pictures on it and signatures.” Hanson also designed the trays the players will use while serving, which will be sold in the auction. “Each player will have their own custom Hooters trays with an action photo of them,” Holt said. “Pictures are all over it, emblazoned with signatures.” With the entire team ready to serve you, Burgdoerfer makes his case for why you should sit at his station. “They probably shouldn’t because I don’t know if I’ll do the best job. But I’ll have a smile on and do my best.”

Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Presented by

Sunday, March 11, 2012 | Noon – 4pm DoubleTree Hotel

FREE ADMISSION PHOTOS COURTESY OF MINTER FIELD AIR MUSEUM

Pearl Brummett Judd is shown in the cockpit of a military transport plane being flown by a young female military pilot. Judd was going to a 2008 Texas reunion of women who flew in World War II with the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs).

Sponsored by

Women pilots were war’s unsung heroes Minter Field event honors vet of little-known service

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

BY DIANNE HARDISTY

Cathy Rigby

Contributing Writer dhardisty@bak.rr.com

earl Brummett Judd, a member of the World War II Women Airforce Service Pilots, and George Marrett, a Vietnam-era rescue pilot and trailblazing Air Force test pilot, will be featured guests during the Minter Field Air Museum’s Annual Founder’s Day Banquet on Saturday. A fundraiser for the Shafter Airportbased museum, the banquet begins at 6 p.m. at Hodel’s Country Dining. The cost is $30 per person. Judd, who now lives in Rancho Cucamonga, was one of 17 WASPs based at Minter Field when the organization was deactivated on Dec. 20, 1944. Her appearance at Saturday’s dinner will be the first time she has returned to Minter Field, which was a training base for World War II pilots. During an interview this week, Judd recalled her decision to join the WASPs after she saw a photograph of a woman pilot on the cover of Life magazine. “I saw my first airplane when I was 6 years old,” she said, explaining that it was being flown as a “publicity stunt” during an event at a ranch in Texas. “From that moment, I just knew I was going to fly a red airplane someday when I grew up.” But the airplane Judd ended up flying as a 21-year-old WASP was a dull, gray warplane. Her flying consisted of towing training targets, ferrying damaged aircraft and

will discuss

Balancing Wellness at 2 pm

Pearl Brummett Judd, a WASP pilot, is shown on the wing of a fighter plane she flew during World War II.

test-flying aircraft being repaired and returned to the flight line. According to Judd, from its inception in September 1942 to its deactivation 26 months later, 1,074 women pilots graduated from WASP training classes to form an aviation organization to support the U.S. Army Air Forces. Thirty-eight women died during their WASP service. Following deactivation ceremonies, Judd married a young Navy man she had met just days before the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. An accountant before joining the WASPs, after her discharge she went to work for Standard Oil Co. in San Francisco and then in Los Angeles. Four children later, the family moved to a suburb of what is now Rancho Cucamonga. She retired Please see MINTER / 34

E V E N T D E TA I L S : • Meet Condors & CSUB RoadRunner mascots • Zumba Fitness with Bakersfield instructors: 12:30pm & 3:30pm • Sample products at vendor booths • Houchin Blood Drive: 12pm–4pm • Healthcare screenings by Mercy and Memorial Hospitals Community Wellness Program: • Cholesterol • Blood Sugar • Blood Pressure • Pulse Rate • Body Fat Please fast for two hours prior to blood tests.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 16, 2012

Eye Street MINTER: CONTINUED FROM 33

LOWDOWN: CONTINUED FROM 30

after a career as an accountant for the school district in Ontario. But, like her sister pilots, she continued to feel the sting of her treatment by the military after WASP was deactivated. Although they flew alongside male military pilots, WASPs were considered “civilian employees.” Upon the organization’s deactivation, WASP records were classified and sealed, with only a few historians knowing about their existence and accomplishments. “We never got into the history books,” she said, explaining that the pilots were denied veterans benefits for years. Although they formed an association to keep in touch and held regular reunions, the women moved on with their lives. Judd said that in 1947, after restrictions on private aviation on the West Coast were eased, she went out to an airport with her flight logs to qualify to fly again. “They didn’t believe them. They said I made it up because women didn’t fly twin engines; they didn’t have instrument ratings,” she recalled. “That really hurt.” But former WASPs ended their silent suffering in 1974, when the military announced with great fanfare two aviation milestones. Maj. Sally Murphy was heralded as the first woman to qualify as an aviator in the U.S. Army. Lt. Barbara Allen became the first Navy woman to earn her aviator’s wings. The pilots’ outrage over being “hidden” for more than three decades was heard loud and clear. In 1977, President Jimmy Carter signed a bill recognizing WASPs as military personnel, which led to veterans benefits being granted. And in 2009, President Barack Obama awarded Congressional Gold Medals to the pilots. The WASP records and memoirs are now preserved in the archives of the Texas Women’s University in Denton. During Saturday’s Founder’s Day Banquet, Marrett will share his experiences flying the A-1 Skyraider as a “Sandy” rescue pilot from bases in Thailand during the Vietnam War. The highly decorated pilot reportedly flew 188

receptionist at The Garden, also runs the concessions during shows, selling sodas and candy. Friday’s show features bands Under City Skies, Promise of Restoration, The Rugged Spud, Running Scared and Kady! Danger. On Saturday, pop punk act the Lebecs will have a special reunion show along with Omagarp Miguel, Say Yes or Else, The Volume and Redadare. Allison said the event is an opportunity for every part of the venue’s extended family to celebrate the accomplishments of the past 15 years. Thousands of young people have used the facilities, and that kind of support helps provide even more opportunities for outreach within the community. “With this anniversary, I think it’s time for another transition. A lot of bands are now able to book their own shows here, instead of just me and the crew. I also believe someone new will rise up to take The Gate into the future.” Friday and Saturday’s shows both begin at 7 p.m. Admission is $7 on both days, and all ages are admitted. The Gate is located at 2010 O St. For more information visit Facebook.com/thegaterocks.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MINTER FIELD AIR MUSEUM

Decorated Vietnam-era rescue pilot and Air Force test pilot George Marrett kneels in front of an F-104 jet.

combat missions. During his Air Force career, Marrett flew or tested nearly a dozen jets, including the F-104 Starfighter. Many of the flights were in the air over Edwards AFB. Later, he was a test pilot for Hughes Aircraft. Since retiring from Hughes in 1989, he has continued to fly private and corporate aircraft, and helped found the Estrella Warbird Museum in Paso Robles.

Minter Field Air Museum Founder’s Day Banquet When: 6 p.m. Saturday Where: Hodel’s Country Dining, 5917 Knudsen Drive Admission: $30 Reservations: MinterFieldAirMuseum.com

B Ryder’s to host reggae ska acts Santa Barbara reggae favorites Iration will be stopping by B Ryder’s on Wednesday. This will be the band’s first show back in Bakersfield since selling out Fishlips last year prior to the club’s closure. They’re an amazing live band with a faithful fan base who follow their every show. Their single “Turn Around” is still getting major airplay and will snap you out of your wintertime funk. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at B Ryder’s, 7401 White

PHOTO COURTESY OF RODDY RADIATION

Tickets are currently on sale for a show with guitarist Roddy “Radiation” Byers of The Specials, appearing with his band, The Skabilly Rebels, at B Ryder’s on Feb. 25.

Lane, or at Vallitix.com. Tickets are now available for a rare appearance by Roddy “Radiation” Byers, guitarist for UK ska band The Specials, also coming to B Ryder’s Bar on Feb. 25. Byers will be joined by his band The Skabilly Rebels and will be performing many of the songs he penned with The Specials, plus a collection of rockabilly originals. Also appearing will be locals Vanity Avenue, Kaptain Krunch and The Cereal Killers, Mento Buru and Big Deal Fair Trade. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at B Ryder’s only. For more information call 397-7304.

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Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street WHISKEY: CONTINUED FROM 24

GATLIN: CONTINUED FROM 28

events, as well as holding fundraisers of their own. “You’ve gotta be out there pushing all the time,” added Bruggeman’s competitor, Susan Rumsower. “I’ve had events every single weekend. It’s six weeks of your life you essentially have to give up.” Rumsower is a relative new kid in town, having abandoned her bigcity life in Las Vegas two years ago to purchase and run a flower shop called Petal Pusher Plus, which served as the inspiration for her mayoral nickname of Flower Filly Sue. Raising money on behalf of the Sherriff’s Activity League, Rumsower makes appearances in a long white gown worthy of Scarlett O’Hara herself and speaks in a fluttery Southern belle accent. She sometimes incorporates her husband and son into the act, dubbing them “48” and the “Nevada Kid.” “It’s exhausting, but it’s fun,” she said. “I mean, hey. It’s six weeks of your life, which really isn’t that much if you consider the amount of memories and laughter you get from this.” Brueggeman, on the other hand, has lived in Wofford Heights for 16 years. She and her character are more “down home” cowgirl types, and she balances her electoral duties with working full time as the pro-

the Gatlin Brothers can once again get our music to the masses, they wil love us. We still sing GREAT. Thank you, God, and the songs have stood the test of time. I’m not bragging — I’m being grateful.” Who impresses you in country music today? “John Rich has ‘it.’ The thing you cannot overdub or ‘fix in the mix.’ He is ALMOST a young version of another JR, as in JR Cash!” Much of your more recent material, like “Americans, That’s Who” and “Live Free or Die” has a bit of an edge to it. Plus, you’re outspoken politically. Do you take a risk as an artist by being so vocal? “We do not do politics on stage. Fans don’t come for that. ... I believe that fans are discerning enough to separate my Fox News work from Gatlin music. Miss Streisand and I see the world differently, but I would go to hear her tonight if I could.” What troubles you about the country right now? The thing that troubles me the most is that the politicians want to RULE me instead of GOVERN me. I will not be ruled. Also, they are trying to turn people who have less than I do against me. They are trying to make me a bad guy for working my way up from a lower middle-class son of an oilfield worker to a 1 percenter. I have never made anyone poorer by earning a good wage. Ask my band and my employees who is the fairest person they have ever known.” Worst advice you ever got: “It will last forever.” Best advice: “It won’t.” Favorite song you ever wrote: “Done Enough Dyin’ Today.” Favorite way to pass the time: “Entertaining people. That’s a lie. My favorite thing is being with my granddaughters. Campbell is in tumbling class right now, so I’m thru. Thanks, LG.”

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Whiskey Flat mayoral candidates Susan (Flower Filly Sue) Rumsower, left, and Julie (Calamity's Jule) Brueggeman get ready to campaign at the Kern Valley Exchange Club’s monthly meeting in the Kern River Valley at Paradise Cove restaurant.

gram director for Family Preservation Community Services, one of the three non-profits for which she is raising money. Once someone who preferred to enjoy the hustle and hubbub of Whiskey Flat Days from the safety of her own home, Brueggeman joined the race for mayor at the encouragement of her daughter (who then proceeded to hightail it back to San Francisco), and is now faced with

the somewhat daunting prospect of being front and center for the bulk of the event. “Normally, I hide out in my house for Whiskey Flats,” she said. “Now here I am, right in the middle of it going, ‘What was I thinking!’ But at the end of the day, Sue and I are both raising money and getting the word out about our charities, and that’s what’s important.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 16, 2012

Eye Street Go & Do Today John Corbett Band, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Free. Reservations, 328-7560. “The Murder of Emmett Till” Documentary, 6:30 p.m., Beale Library, auditorium, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. Free Admission Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave. 324-6350. Harlem Globetrotters, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $28.90-$115.65. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. Kern County Mineral Society, meeting, 7:30 p.m., East Bakersfield Veterans Hall, 2101 Ridge Road. 834-3128. Kern Reading Association Book Talk Tea, with refreshments, book discussions and basket raffles, 4:30 p.m., University SquareRoom 204, 2000 K St. 747-7879. “So you want a career in Federal Law Enforcement?” Formal launch of new bachelor’s degree in global intelligence and national security, by Carl Beckett, 3 p.m., CSUB, Walter Stiern Library, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free. 6542141. 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 26th annual Bakersfield Home & Garden Show, noon to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $7; $4 seniors (Friday only); 12 and under free. ggshows.com or 800655-0655. 55th annual Whiskey Flat Days, noon to sundown Friday; 9 a.m. to sundown Saturday; 9 a.m. to sundown Sunday; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Kernville. For full schedule of events visit kernvalley.com/news/whiskey.htm or 760-376-2629. Auditions for “The Singing Bee,” new season begins in March, come out and audition, just need to know country music and sing it right, 6 p.m., Trout’s, 805 N. Chester Ave. Free. Email casting@thesingingbee.com or 818-480-3181, ext. 1311. Bakersfield Friends of Wine Via Vega Dinner, with winery owner Larry Gomez will be pouring seven of his wines accompanied by a four-course dinner prepared by chef Terry, 7 to 10 p.m., TL Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar, 1421 17th Place. $80 per person. Tickets can be purchased online at bfowviavega.eventbrite.com. CSU Bakersfield Guitar Art Series, 7:30 p.m. Friday, CSUB, Music Building, Room 127, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $12; $8 seniors; $6 students. 654-2511.

Keith Sweat, 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $43$57.50 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Paleo Digs at Ernst Quarries near Sharktooth Hill, eight hours of hunting per day, keep all teeth and fossils (some exceptions), Friday through Sunday, Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave. $85 single day; $160 two-day; $225 three-day. Attendees must be members of the museum. 324-6350. The Fresh Beat Band, 6:30 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $18 to $37 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

Saturday “The Help,” by Kathryn Stockett, panel book discussion, 2 p.m., Beale Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0745. Bakersfield Dugout Boosters Club Fundraiser Dinner, for CSUB Baseball, with 50/50 drawing and auction, 5:30 to 9 p.m., Lengthwise Brewery, 6720 Schirra Court. $40 donation. 204-9483. Bakersfield Green Thumb Garden Club, meeting with photographer Casey Christie of The Bakersfield Californian, 9 a.m., Church of the Brethren, in the social hall, 327 A St. 393-3657. BHS Choir Alumni Concert, 7 p.m., Bakersfield High School, Harvey Auditorium, 1241 G St. $3 advanced; $5. bhschoirs.com. Certified Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St. Chili Cook-Off, with robot unveiling and silent auction, noon to 3 p.m., Tehachapi High School, Cafeteria, 801 S. Dennison Road, Tehachapi. $5 advanced; $7 at the door. Email chilicookoff@team585.org. CSUB Men’s Basketball, vs. San Diego, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $5-$20. gorunners.com or 654-BLUE. East Bakersfield High School Hall-of-Fame, no-host cocktails, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., dinner, 6:45 p.m., Marriott Hotel, 801 Truxtun Ave. $80 per person; $600 table of 10. 871-7221 or 565-7185. Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road. FLICS International Cinema Society, presents “The Human Resources Manager,” 7:30 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $5. flics.org or call 428-0354.

Sunday BCMM presents Young Pioneer Event, Bakersfield Rhythm Boys, 50/50 drawing, door prizes, jammers welcome, 1 to 5 p.m., Stockdale Moose Lodge, 905 Stine Road. Free for members; $10 donation. 366-6003.

THEATER “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide, When the Rainbow Is Enuf,” 8 p.m. Friday

and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Bakersfield Community Theater, 2400 S. Chester Ave. $15 adults; $12 seniors/students/military. 8318114. “Little Red Riding Hood,” 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $6. 587-3377. “Showdown in Shafter,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $12 to $23. 587-3377. Game Show Night, hosted by Matthew Borton, chance to win prizes, 8 p.m. Friday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $5. 327-PLAY. 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. Karaoke with Adam Calvillo, 9 p.m. Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $5; proceeds benefit the theater. 327-PLAY. 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. Retro Game Show, 8 p.m. Friday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $5. 327-PLAY.

ART Art Classes, in drawing, watercolor, oils, color theory, for beginners and advanced, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320. Art for Healing program, classes that alleviate stress, resulting from illness or grief. All classes are free but some suggest a donation and are held at Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A Street. Visit mercybakersfield.org/ art or to register, 632-5357. Art Reception, celebrating winners art work, 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Maya Cinemas, 1000 California Ave. 636-0490. Chinese Brush Painting Class, with Tony Oliver, 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. $100. 8692320. Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, offers stained glass classes, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. For times and dates call 327-7507. Nancy Merrick, artwork on display for the month of February, Capitol Real Estate Group, 1700 Chester Ave. 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. The Living Exhibit, reenactments from African American History, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Community Empowerment Organization, 610 4th St., Free. 3468304.

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

Alternative rock Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., 633-1000, Warbringer, 6 p.m. Sunday. $10.

Blues Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. every third Saturday, Trout’s, 805 N. Chester Ave. 8727517. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Steven Castro & Cesario, 9 p.m. Thursday. 21 and over. Trout’s, 805 N. Chester Ave., 8727517, Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. every third Saturday.

Classic Rock Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Token Okies, 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday. Ewings on the Kern, 125 Buena Vista Drive, Kernville, 760-3762411; Left Coast Groovies, 8 p.m. Friday; 9 p.m. Saturday and 7 p.m. Sunday. Jacalito Grill, 900 Truxtun Ave., Ste. 110, 325-2535; Prisoners of Love, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday.

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

Country Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; Noah Claunch and Band, 9 p.m. Saturday. Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 3287560; Buddy Alan Owens & the Buckaroos, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Vince Galindo, 9 p.m. Wednesdays.

Cover Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Chrisanova, 9 p.m. Monday.

Dancing Bakersfield Rounders, ballroom (cued) transition class levels two and three, 7 p.m. Tuesdays, South Bakersfield Veteran’s Hall, 1905 Wilson Road. $10 per couple. 7477921. Beginner Belly Dance Lessons, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Mondays, Centre Stage Studio, 1710 Chester Ave. 323-5215. $45 regular session; $65 combo session. bakersfieldbellydance.biz. Folklorico Classes, advance dancers/performing group 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays; and beginners, all ages, 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays, Fruitvale-Norris Park, 6221 Norris Road. $22 per month for

beginners; $25 per month for advance dancers. 833-8790. Greenacres Community Center, 2014 Calloway Drive, offers ballroom dance, East Coast swing (jitterbug) and Argentine Tango dance classes; $35, $45 for nonmembers. 322-5765 or 201-2105. Joaquin Squares, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Rasmussen Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5. 324-1390, 325-3086 or 399-3658. Pairs and Spares Dance, with Country George and Western Edition, 7 p.m. Friday, Rasmussen Senior Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $7; $9 nonmembers. 399-3575.

DJ Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; with DJ Casey Overstreet, 9 p.m. Fridays. Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; DJ Brian, 7 to 11 p.m. Tuesday. 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. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; DJ Jerome, 9 p.m. Friday. 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; Wax On, 9:30 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.

Guitar Guitar Class, taught by Mark Albert, for individuals or a group, 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $25. 578-4570 or 327-7507.

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 artist and Jazz Connection, along with 24 wines, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. King Tut, 10606 Hageman Road; live instrumental and vocal Jazz, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Friday and Saturday. Free. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday. Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Jazz Invasion, 9 to 10 p.m. every Saturday. Please see 37

Thursday, February 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM 36

Karaoke B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; 8 p.m. Thursdays and Tuesdays. 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. 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. 6331948. 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, 5878888; 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, 8737613; 6 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; 7 to 11 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. Julie’s The Branding Iron Saloon, 1807 N. Chester Ave., 6 to 10 p.m. every Friday. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; A to Z Karaoke, 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays.

CALIFORNIAN RADIO Join Lifestyles Editor Jennifer Self and the Eye Street crew this morning, when they’ll host the two “candidates” running for mayor of Whiskey Flat Days. What goes on at this rootin,’ tootin’ tribute to the Old West? Tune in and find out. Lone Oak Inn, 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 10612 Rosedale Highway. 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, 366-3261, 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, 323-0053; 8 p.m. to midnight Saturdays. Replay Sports Lounge & Grill, 4500 Buck Owens Blvd., 324-3300; 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, 5896749; 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., 3279651; 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., 3981300; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays. Tejon Club, 6 to 10 p.m. every Saturday at 117 El

We’ll also round up all the must-attend events of the week and wrap up our contest on the best servers in Bakersfield. To join in the fun, call 842-KERN. “Californian Radio” broadcasts from 9 to 10 a.m. weekdays on KERN, 1180-AM. Tejon Ave. 392-1747. The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 3270681; 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Empty Space, 706 Oak St., 327-PLAY; hosted by Adam Calvillo, 9 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday. $5. 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., 871-4140; 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., 8728831, 8 p.m. every Thursday. Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 1440 Weedpatch Highway. 363-5102. 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. Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., 496-2502, 7 p.m. Thursdays. 21 and over.

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

Old school Jacalito Grill, 900 Truxtun Ave., Suite 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, 8:45 p.m. Friday; Rock-AMole with Joey Zaza, 8:45 p.m. Saturday. $5 per night. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; Lost Vinyl featuring Becky Aguilar, 9 p.m. Saturday.

Open Mic Fiddlers Crossing, 206 E. F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; 7 p.m. Wednesdays. $5. The Canna Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. every Friday, East Hills Mall, Food Court, 3000 Mallview Road.

Rock Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., 633-1000, We Are Defiance, This Romantic

Tragedy, The Last of Our Kind, 6 p.m. Monday. Tickets at timgardeapresents.com. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 5896749; live bands, 9 p.m. every Thursday. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 322-8900; The Aviators and I Like Turtles, 9:30 p.m. Saturday. $5, 21 and over.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Rock n’ blues

Tuesday 2/21

Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Robert Heft band, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Songwriters The Rustic Rail Saloon, 147 E. Norris Road, 3930456, Songwriter’s Showcase with host David Reeves Carpenter, sign up begins at 6 p.m.; 7 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

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.

Monday 2/20 Damn Yankees-Broadway in Bakersfield, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $30 to $60 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

Bakersfield Pregnancy Center’s Annual Benefit Banquet, featured speaker will be Dr. Bruce Wilkinson, 6 p.m., Olive Knolls Church of the Nazarene, 6201 Fruitvale Ave. Call for complimentary tickets. 3261915. Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras party with Mento Buru and DJ Mikey, 7 p.m., 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 328-7560. Free, all ages. Tip-A-Condor, dinner served by your favorite Condors player, 5 to 8 p.m., Hooters, 4208 Rosedale Highway. $25. 324-7825. Toddler Time, for children 18 months to 2 years, with music, nursery rhymes, stories and play, 11 a.m., Beale Library, Arkelian children’s library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0770

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 TM

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

MammaMiaNorthAmerica.com

On Sale Now! • March 8 • 7:30pm

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

Rabobank Theater • Presented by

• 800-745-3000

Discounted tickets for subscribers and groups 20+ call 661-852-7309 a series

©LITTLESTAR

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