Eye Street Entertainment / 2-9-12 by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 9, 2012

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

Index Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra .......... 20 Arts Alive .................................................. 22 A Vintage Love Story................................ 23 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz ............ 24 Steve Martin ............................................ 25 The Living Piano ...................................... 26 Broadway by Jeri .................................... 28 Calendar .............................................. 30-31

Through the eyes of ‘The Help’ Panel participant to share own experiences in South BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

hough she’s read “The Help,” Cora Jordan didn’t need a book to tell her how difficult things were for black maids in the civil rights-era South. As an African-American who spent time in segregated Dallas, Jordan has her own memories to draw on. Or, more specifically, the experiences of her aunt Cora, a maid for a Dallas family, whose story mirrors that of the domestic help portrayed so movingly in both the Academy Award-nominated film and bestselling novel on which it was based. “I read the book and seen the movie,” said Jordan, 82, better known as “Coco” to the many Bakersfield families whose children she has cared for through the decades. “I seen it deeper than that. I seen it worse than that. My experience with segregation was in Dallas, Texas. I hated it.” Jordan will share her perspective during a panel discussion of the book on Feb. 18 at Beale Memorial Library, part of several events organized under the banner of “Harlem and Beyond,” a community-wide observance of Black History Month. “The Help” is a focal point of several activities, including a screening of the film at 6:30 p.m. this evening at Harvey Auditorium at Bakersfield High School. And in addition to the Beale event, there will be another book discussion at Bakersfield Senior Center on Tuesday. Admission to all the events is free. Jordan is an inspired choice to sit on the book panel, both for her firsthand account of what it was like for African-Americans in the segregated South and for the many years she has spent helping to raise other people’s children, a central theme in “The Help.” However, where the maids and child-care givers in the book were forced into demeaning, servile roles by the white families they worked for, Jordan, who still looks after a couple of children, is treat-

HARLEM AND BEYOND EVENTS Tonight: Showing of “The Help,” 6:30 p.m., Bakersfield High School, in Harvey Auditorium, 1241 G St. Free. Tuesday: Let’s Talk about “The Help,” informal book discussion of the novel, which takes place in Mississippi during the ’60s and exposes the racial divide which existed during that time, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Bakersfield Senior Center, 540 Fourth St. Free. Feb. 16: “The Murder of Emmett Till” Documentary, 6:30 p.m., Beale Library, auditorium, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. Feb. 18: “The Help” panel book discussion, 2 p.m., Beale Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0745. Feb. 22: ’60s Art: Art Activity, for school-aged children, 3:30 p.m., Beale Memorial Library,

ed like a relative. “She’s definitely like a grandmother,” said Ed Jagels, retired Kern County district attorney, whose son, Jeff, has spent time with Jordan off and on over the years. “I can remember when he was very small, I think he thought she literally was his grandmother. I can remember him sitting in his car seat, exclaiming, you know, ‘All my family’s white.’ He couldn’t get his head around that he wasn’t related by blood to Coco.” Jordan, who trained and worked for years as a nurse, became a child-care provider when she and her husband, the late Daniel Webster Jordan, moved to Bakersfield in the early 1960s after bouncing around from city to city in the service of his calling as a pastor. “He was quite an evangelist,” Jordan said of her husband, who died in 2004. “He built and established a lot of churches, but his main goal was evangelizing. He was on the move.” But for the sake of their family — which would eventually grow to four boys, a daughter and several foster children — the Jordans found a “safe haven” in Bakersfield and stayed. “One time I had eight kids in the house at the same time.

Children’s Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free; supplies will be provided. 868-0745. Feb. 23: Soul Food Buffet, inspired by the movie “The Help” and sponsored by the Culinary Department of Bakersfield College, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Bakersfield College, 1801 Panorama Drive. Space is limited and reservations are strongly suggested. 395-4011. Feb. 25: Your Story: Your African-American Ancestry, 10 a.m. to noon, Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. 868-0770. 2012 Harlem and Beyond Gospel Concert, 6 p.m., Greater Harvest Christian Ministries, 5421 Aldrin Court. Free. 831-4427.

They’re still brothers and sisters up to this day. They still call me Mama.” Though she traveled extensively and was born and raised in Oklahoma — which Jordan called a model for racial harmony — she said she never experienced racism anywhere like she did in Dallas all those years ago, when she’d watch in disgust as her aunt was forced to endure one indignity after another. “I rebelled a whole bunch. (The white employer) would say go through the back door and don’t go no further on the porch and I’d always question her why. I knew what was right and what was wrong at a very early age because of how I was raised in Oklahoma.” “The Help” tells the story of the friendship that develops between a maid named Aibileen and a sympathetic young white woman named Skeeter, who collaborate on a book about the experiences of maids in Jackson, Miss. Though she loved the film and book, Jordan said both were rather sanitized versions of what really happened, in her opinion. Still, some of the scenes rang true. “(The white women) would go to their bridge parties and wear those dinky hats and sometimes they didn’t like each other. The

ALEX HORVATH / THE CALIFORNIAN

Cora Jordan has cared for dozens of children over nearly 50 years. She will be on a panel discussing the book “The Help” in honor of Black History Month.

white women was just as prejudiced against each other as they were against the black people.” But the theme that resonates most with Jordan, and gives “The Help” so much of its emotional impact, is the deep and lasting bond that often developed between the black maids and white children they raised. Jordan witnessed it herself with her aunt, who never had children of her own, and the child she loved and nurtured. “The girl, Evelyn, is what Skeeter reminded me of,” Jordan said. “This girl came back and took care of my aunt until she passed away. She didn’t like the way her mother had treated her. She bought my aunt a home in De Kalb, Texas. She came to my aunt’s funeral and paid for it.” Though commercially successfully both in print and on screen, “The Help” is not without its critics, many of whom say the book and novel are just the latest in a long line of civil rights-themed projects told through the eyes of a white character. But Jordan doesn’t see it that way. “People might criticize, but they weren’t there. They don’t know what segregation is unless they read it. You had to have been

there, lived it, told you can’t eat here. The movie is fictitious compared to the truth. It could have been deeper. It could have been worse.”

Film screening tonight One person who has yet to see the film is Cheyenne Bell, who was tasked with arranging the screening tonight at BHS. “I wanted to read the book first, but it just didn’t happen,” said the BHS counselor. “I guess I’ll see the movie first.” Though “The Help” occupied local movie screens over the summer, tonight’s screening — in addition to being free — will be the first time Bakersfield film fans will have the chance to see it on the big screen since it became a front-runner for this month’s Academy Awards. In addition to scoring a Best Film nomination, Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer are in the running in the acting categories for their widely acclaimed work. The Harvey seats more than 1,500, but it’s first come, first served. Parking shouldn’t be too difficult, Bell said, though she warned that absolutely no food is permitted in the campus auditorium.

Thursday, February 9, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Bakersfield’s Best Server contest

All are his favorite customers Cheering them up, making them feel special is an art 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 will be featured every Sunday and Thursday for several weeks. When all the servers have been featured, readers may go to The Californian’s Facebook page to vote for their favorite (more details on how to vote later). BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

ust as Bobby McFerrin told us in the ’80s, “Don’t worry, be happy.” It’s just that credo that motivates Carlos Juan Maldonado as a server at Don Perico in northeast Bakersfield. “Just be happy. I smile all the time. ‘You’re never mad,’ customers tell me. That is my thing; that’s why I’m a good waiter.” That happiness is infectious, according to customer Jana Byers, who nominated Maldonado, 38. She writes, “He is always happy, cheerful and funny! If he detects someone is in a foul mood, he will pat them on the back and joke around until he gets them out of that mood!” His positive attitude has served him well since he started at the Oswell Street restaurant not long after moving to Bakersfield from Mexico at the age of 17. “I have a big family: 10 — five girls and five boys (including me). Eight live here in Bakersfield.” In his first years in town, two brothers, both married, were his only local relatives. “I was young and my brother said, ‘Go to school.’ I said, ‘No, I don’t want to go to school. No, I need money.’ “It’s hard when you move. When I got here, I didn’t know anybody. When I started working, I found a lot of friends.” Maldonado started at Don Perico as a dishwasher, then moved on to busboy before taking up serving. “At first I was scared, I thought, ‘I don’t want to be a waiter. Sometimes I don’t understand very much. But it will be better for you, more money.’” That pay bump helps support his family: wife Isabel, a stay-at-home mom; daughter Celeste, almost 16; and sons Jose, 11, and Adrian, 5. Along with the usual household bills, the Maldonados have paid more than their share of medical bills; Celeste has had five surgeries for a cleft palette, and Jose has cerebral palsy. In an industry reliant on tips, Maldonado said he sticks to a simple rule: “I don’t discriminate. Everybody is the same. When they come to the restaurant, I try to do the best job. I don’t understand why people discriminate. Here in Bakersfield, you know a lot of people they don’t tip. Be nice to the people and you make good money.” A few years back, Maldonado said he greeted an interesting trio who arrived

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Carlos Juan Maldonado, who has worked at Don Perico on Oswell Street for 21 years (10 as a waiter), is a nominee for best server in Bakersfield.

before the hostesses came on shift. “A guy with a lot of hair on his face. He looked like a monkey man. He came in with two guys and a girl. They were working here in Bakersfield on a circus from Mexico. “They were at a different restaurant across the street that didn’t want to give them service because of the hair. They didn’t want them to scare people. “I told them, ‘That’s discrimination.’ Then I seated them. They returned the next week with a camera and took a picture of us. They said, ‘Thank you for your service, Carlos.’” Maldonado cares deeply that customers enjoy their experience, whether in his station or not. He remembers helping a family with a little girl who had a long wait for chicken strips. “The chicken strips were frozen, so they would take 10 to 15 minutes. I said, ‘They’ll take awhile. Do you want a taco or enchilada for the little girl? I won’t charge you. “They said no, but when the strips came out they were burnt. I asked if they wanted something else, but they said no. I said I could give them a discount. I felt guilty they came out to eat (and had a bad time). “They said, ‘You don’t have to do that. It’s not your problem. But you’re the only person who came to our table and explained it.’ They left a $10 tip on a nothing bill.” For all the hard work and reward he derives from his job, Maldonado thinks about how his life might have changed. “Now I think different. Maybe if I went to school, I would have a better job. So I tell my daughter, ‘Go to school, get a better job. Don’t be like me. You go to school first, then you can buy anything you want.’”

NOMINATION From Jana Byers: Like all of the servers who will be nominated for this award, Carlos goes above and beyond what anyone would expect in their waiter. Carlos makes you think you are his favorite customer. But, if you talk to anyone else that goes to this Don Perico, they will say they are his favorite! He makes everyone feel like a welcomed guest! He is always happy, cheerful and funny! If he detects someone is in a foul mood, he will pat them on the back and joke around until he gets them out of that mood! He remembers everything, every time! He knows my husband doesn't like sour cream, so if he orders something with sour cream, Carlos will bring it to me on the side, because he remembers that I like sour cream. Margaritas? Salt? No salt? He remembers which of us likes what! When my friend had a stroke and became wheelchair bound, I explained to Carlos we would be having dinner there the next night with her and her husband. I wanted to know how he will accommodate us, where he will seat us, where will the wheelchair be stored, etc., because I wanted her as comfortable as possible and this was all new to me. He laughed at me like I'd lost my mind! He explained she will sit here ... the wheelchair will go there ... and he looked at me like, “Duh?” It became obvious he has served many people in wheelchairs, knew what he was doing and he thought it was comical that I didn't know what I was doing!

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 9, 2012

Eye Street

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BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

oprano Sophie Wingland hopes to move to Europe soon and start a contemporary music ensemble there. But before she does that, she will be making her debut with the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra this weekend. Usually a guest performer is featured in one selection on the concert program. But Wingland will be featured on both major works on this weekend’s program: Richard Strauss’ Orchestral Songs, Op. 68; and Wingland Gustav Mahler’s Fourth Symphony, which features a solo soprano in the final movement. Dr. Jerome Kleinsasser, a BSO board member and artistic consultant, recommended Wingland, daughter of former Bakersfield residents Mark and Kathy Wingland. “I’m trying to ignore the fact that her parents have been among our dearest friends for decades,” said Kleinsasser, who has followed Wingland’s career since her school days. She had a full-ride scholarship tenure

Gentle Giants: Mozart, Strauss & Mahler, Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Tickets: $34 to $50 Information: 323-7928

at Oberlin College, plus graduate studies at USC. Kleinsasser had the chance to hear Wingland’s 2009 performance at the Ventura Music Festival, where she was named a “Rising Star.” “I was just floored by the maturity of everything Sophie performed,” Kleinsasser said. “Her voice — it just had this silvery quality.” Kleinsasser also heard Wingland perform at USC, the Aspen Festival and other venues, covering an usually wide range of vocal repertoire, from Mozart to Wagner, Schoenberg Stravinsky and new music. “I was thinking, wow, wouldn’t it be nice to have her come up here, if we could just find the right repertoire,” Kleinsasser said. Strauss’ Orchestral Songs were orig-

inally written for voice and piano in 1918 and arranged for voice and orchestra in 1940. With a libretto by Clemens Brentano, these songs are often referred to as the “Brentano Lieder” (German art songs). The song cycle discusses two main themes of the Romantic movement — love and nature — with such titles as “To the Night,” “I meant to make you a posy,” “Whisper, dear myrtle,” “As your song ran out,” and “Cupid.” Mahler’s Fourth Symphony, which premiered in 1901, is often considered his most popular work and is a dramatic departure from his other symphonies. Smaller in scale and quite delicate in nature, the first three movements lead up to the fourth, and all are dependent on a song Mahler had written several years earlier, “We enjoy heaven’s delights,” a poem reflecting a child’s dream of heaven. “That little boy’s dream of what heaven will be like — there will be food!” Kleinsasser said. “And then the other idea — ‘there just is no music on earth as there will be in heaven’ — I think that’s Mahler’s message about music,” Kleinsasser said. The concert will begin with the Overture to Mozart’s opera “La Clemenza di Tito.”

New composers excite singer Repertoire ranges from Classical to contemporary

or Sophie Wingland, there’s been no thought to being anything but a singer. “I kind of always knew I would be a singer,” Wingland said. “It was inevitable, I guess.” Wingland, who will be performing with the Bakersfield Symphony this weekend, grew up in Ventura, the daughter of former Bakersfield residents Mark and Kathy Wingland. The 24-year-old soprano started singing in her church choir at age 6, and she has followed her musical road ever since, starting voice lessons at age 14, and then moving on to Ventura College in what would have been her junior year in high school. “There wasn’t much for me to do musically in high school,” Wingland said. A full-ride scholarship to Oberlin College, one of the leading music conservatories in the United States, plus graduate studies at USC, gave Wingland the opportunity to develop her voice and establish herself. Unlike many singers, however, she didn’t specialize in a particular repertoire,

“I got the opportunity to sing a lot of stuff and work with a lot of composers. (My graduate studies) kind of allowed me to wear several different musical hats and work with different composers, and that gave me an interest in contemporary music.” — Sophie Wingland, who will be performing with the Bakersfield Symphony

and she has performed everything from Classical-era music to brand new compositions. “I got the opportunity to sing a lot of stuff and work with a lot of composers,” Wingland said. “(My graduate studies) kind of allowed me to wear several different musical hats and work with different composers, and that gave me an interest in contemporary music.” Wingland will sing two major 20th century works for soprano and orchestra with the BSO this weekend, Richard Strauss’ Orchestral Songs, Op. 68, and the soprano solo in Gustav Mahler’s Fourth Symphony. From there, Wingland will finish preparations for the premier of the opera “Sylvia,” written by Julia Adolphe, to be performed April 14 and 15 at the Lost Studio in Los Angeles. Wingland will sing the title role. In addition, Wingland has premiered

works by other up-and-coming composers, including Jeffrey Parola, Brett Banducci and others. From there, Wingland hopes to take matters into her own hands, by becoming a champion for new music. The singer said she is pursuing grants to fund a move to Europe, where she hopes to start her own contemporary music ensemble. “My thought is I’d love to bring a new audience to contemporary music and get young people excited about new music,” Wingland said. Wingland said in addition to leading and performing in the ensemble, she also wants to reach out to people to promote new music. “I hope by kind of throwing myself fully into it I can inspire other singers to put themselves even halfway into it,” Wingland said. — Susan Scaffidi

Thursday, February 9, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

PHOTO COURTESY OF FELIX ADAMO

String basses play during a 2010 Bakersfield Symphony concert.

Double the BSO donor base? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the plan BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

atching the Bakersfield Symphonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new development director is a challenge, as she travels from meeting to meeting to garner support for the 80-yearold orchestra. Renee Goodwin took over as a full-time fundraiser for the BSO on Nov. 1, replacing Michael Chertok, who has kept the orchestra solvent during the economic downturn of the last few years. Goodwinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goals include rebuilding support and restoring some of the concerts the orchestra had been forced to cut to stay in the black. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would really like to see us double our donor base,â&#x20AC;? Goodwin said. Goodwin moved to Bakersfield from East Lansing, Mich. in January 2004 to work as a manager for several school construction projects. She said that during her interviews for that job, she was able to attend several community events, and they impressed her enough to make the move. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought that Bakersfield had a very large sense of community and a very generous spirit,â&#x20AC;? Goodwin said. That sense of community also inspired Goodwin to make a move to nonprofit organizations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you want to make a life somewhere then you have to become part of the community, so I started doing nonprofit work,â&#x20AC;? Goodwin said. Goodwin said her local nonprofit experi-

ence has taught her that there is a big opportunity for the orchestra to recruit more donors, as many organizations have as many as twice the supporters as BSO. With more support comes the ability to restore some of the cuts in the orchestraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offerings, including expanding educational offerings and concerts in outlying areas. Over the last few years, the orchestra has been forced to reduce its activity to its subscription concerts and the semi-annual Young Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Concerts for Kern County schoolchildren, losing chamber concerts, the New Directions concerts, and Academic Decathlon, brown bag, Patriots Day and holiday pops concerts along the way. In addition to recruiting more donors, she is also looking for grant opportunities and sponsors for specific events. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the things I want to do is change the October (Young Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) concert to a cultural heritage event, so it can be crosstaught with social studies and music,â&#x20AC;? Goodwin said. She said she hopes to get a sponsor for that event, plus one for some brown bag concerts, and is currently in negotiations for a sponsor for another event she hopes to publicize soon. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The orchestra is in its 80th season,â&#x20AC;? Goodwin said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that a lot of people just take it for granted that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been here and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always going to be here. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a nonprofit and nonprofits survive on donations,â&#x20AC;? Goodwin said.

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 9, 2012

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Play a rainbow of possibilities ‘For Colored Girls ...’ debuts Friday night

GO & DO ‘For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/ When the Rainbow is Enuf’

owerful and color-blind. Those are the words that continue to flash across my brain as I reflect on a preview of “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow is Enuf” that I saw last Friday. In my mind’s eye, I “see” the word powerful, because it describes the range of emotion — some of it gut-wrenching — conveyed by this all-female cast in the show, which opens Friday at Bakersfield Community Theatre. As for color-blind, that phrase represents my hope that, after seeing this show, skin color will become invisible to local directors when announcing auditions for their shows. Casting a black actor in a traditionally white role has happened occasionally in Bakersfield theaters, but not often enough in my view. Thomas G. Robinson, the director of “For Colored Girls …” tells me that only two members of his cast have had previous experience. So why, I wonder, is this the first time the other five have appeared on stage in Bakersfield? I’m telling you, all of these women have a lot to offer when it comes to creating a believable character. True, this production is BCT’s annual recognition of Black History Month. Indeed, playwright Ntozake Shange meant for it to be acted by black women. But these seven BCT actresses would do equally well in productions that are not so narrowly focused. The play, or choreopoem as Shange prefers to call it, is rich in language — the words are wellchosen, the meter rhythmic — as the women, individually and collectively tell about their struggles and their triumphs as they search, and ultimately find, meaning in their lives. The production is further enlivened by singing and dancing, well-choreographed by Laquette Milner. Perhaps as a metaphor for the rainbow in the title, each character is named for a color.

When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Bakersfield Community Theatre, 2400 S. Chester Ave. Admission: Cost: $15; $12 students and seniors Information: 831-8114

Mary Weatherford: The Bakersfield Project Opening reception: 6 to 8 p.m. today Where: Todd Madigan Gallery, Cal State Bakersfield, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: Free Information: 654-2238 MICHAEL FAGANS / THE CALIFORNIAN

“Lady in Brown” Detrice Palmer opens the dress rehearsal of “For Colored Girls...” with a song at the Bakersfield Community Theatre on Friday night.

Each actress’s costume emphasizes the color she depicts. Full-voiced Detrice Palmer, dynamic as the Lady in Brown, opened the show with the song, “My Name is Aunt Sarah.” And the way Palmer sang the song quickly got my attention. There is quite a bit of humor in the first part of the first act, which includes the entire ensemble performing an energetic lip-synched version of “Dancin’ in the Streets.” Yet as the action progresses, the story takes on a more serious tone. A highlight is a scene in which Rahkiah Brown, the Lady in Purple, talks about Cajuns, the heat of New Orleans and “strange liquid sounds through the swamp,” while Althea Williams, the Lady in Green, does a graceful and sensuous dance in the background. Sheila Robinson-Owens as the Lady in Red, is outstanding in an emotional scene about a woman named Crystal. At the rehearsal, I found myself almost hypnotized as she switched, within seconds, back and forth between the voice and actions of Crystal to those of a man — her abusive boyfriend — and then briefly to the voice of the couple’s innocent child. Also in the show are Beneece Davis, the Lady in Yellow; Vina Jefferson, Lady in Orange; and

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

V-Day 2012 When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: $20 Information: 327-PLAY

‘Herstory’ When: 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: $5 Information: 327-PLAY

of drama. Although the play’s subject matter explores the lives of black women it has a universal appeal in its ability to reach out to anyone who has experienced rape, emotional or physical abuse, or infidelity. Performances continue at BCT through Feb. 25.

V-Day at The Empty Space

PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNIFER BURGER

“North Chester 2012” by Mary Weatherford is one of the artist’s works on display now at the Todd Madigan Gallery at CSUB.

Venessa Duncan, Lady in Blue. Tomeka Powell is the producer and Stacy Peterson, stage manager. Shange, a native of St. Louis who attended Barnard College and the University of Southern

California, wrote “For Colored Girls…” in the mid-1970s. It was first performed in a bar in Berkeley. It later appeared on Broadway where it won an Obie in 1977 and was considered a breakthrough for black playwrights in the world

V-Day, an international campaign to stop violence against women and girls, has continued to grow since it was founded in 1998. According to its website, it now is actively observed in 140 countries. For the past eight years, The Empty Space has observed the “day” in early February. The theater’s V-Day has been expanded along the way and this year will include two different productions that will be performed this weekend plus an informational event Please see 29

Thursday, February 9, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Love in a hot, fast minute Museum’s successful V-Day promotion back for year two BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

or most of us, our Valentine’s Day “love story” will consist of dinner, a movie and perhaps a chocolate or two. Or, if you’re single, a cocktail (or three) with friends. But for some Kern County couples, what might have been any other mid-week Valentine’s Day could become the most important day of their lives — their wedding day. Returning for a second year, the Kern County Museum will help spontaneous lovers create their own “Vintage Love Story,” by providing them with the intimate, affordable and utterly all-inclusive wedding of their dreams. “Last year, we thought we weren’t even going to be able to do it,” said Elizabeth Herrera, the cupid-minded creator of the event. “But we did, and everything worked out fabulously. All you really have to do is show up here, and from the moment the brides and grooms arrive, everything is taken care of.” The museum is offering six full wedding packages, which include a ceremony for you and up to 35 guests in the historic wedding chapel, live music played on the chapel’s antique organ, transportation for the wedding party in a vintage car, an offi-

A Vintage Love Story When: Tuesday; call for available time slots Where: The Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. Cost: $300 to $500 Information: 868-8410

cient, a makeup artist to help pamper the bride, a complimentary 8-by-10 wedding photo, a “mini-reception” with a DJ, and a heart-shaped cake baked for two. But the price is what should really get your pulse racing: On this most romantic day of the year, you can get a full wedding at one of Bakersfield’s most sought-after venues for only $500. To put this even further into perspective, on any other day, use of the chapel alone would cost you at least $1,100. Sure, most of the options in the package are upgradeable (you can purchase additional photos of your wedding from the wedding photographer, order a larger cake, etc.), but other than the clothes on your back, the museum staff has you and your soon-to-be-betrothed covered. In addition to the $500 packages, even lower-frills couples can opt to catch a ride in a 1928 vintage Model A convertible, and get hitched underneath the bright neon lights of the museum’s historic gas station. There, an officiant will be ready and waiting to marry you right there in the car.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMMIE EHRET-STEVENS

Kirsten and David Hickman are seen at their wedding ceremony last Valentine’s Day at the Kern County Museum.

After your drive-through ceremony, you’ll pose for some photos, and then have the rest of the evening (and lives) to enjoy your newfound marital bliss. But eager elopers beware: Herrera requested that couples call in and reserve their time slots. Some brides might balk at the idea of relinquishing complete control and customization of their big day, no matter how many weddings they have under their belt, but not Kirsten Hickman. The former Ms. Bellamy is one of the six brides who said “I do” last year. And she wouldn’t change a thing. “If I had to do it again, regardless of whether or not I had a year to plan, I would do it exactly the same way,” she said. “At the museum, it was just perfect.” Working on a shoestring budget due to her husband’s medical expenses, Hickman created her vintage love story for under

$500 by walking down the aisle in a wedding gown she purchased at Goodwill (the same day she reserved the space for the wedding), making her own bouquet from items she purchased at the dollar store, and requesting that friends and family purchase their own post-wedding meals at Uricchio’s Trattoria in lieu of wedding gifts. For Hickman, however, the true value of her simple yet sentimental wedding was being able to be married in a place as historical and meaningful to her and her family as the Kern County Museum. “It’s where my son took his first steps; I took my father there to visit before he passed away, so he was there in my mind,“ she said. “I’m just totally in favor of it. It’s such a fantastic thing if you want a small wedding. I think it’s very cultural and very hip, and I hope more people take advantage of it, because at the end of the day, it also supports the museum.”

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JAN 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, FEB 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 Purchase tickets online, by phone, or at the Theatre Box Office

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 9, 2012

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

You want the funk? Zapp to it Group returns to Bako for V-Day concert

he legacy of the music of Zapp & Roger isn’t just about dancing. Along with releasing a string of bumpin’ weekend jams for cruising and getting your most righteous groove in the ’80s like “Dance Floor,” “More Bounce to the Ounce” and “So Ruff So Tuff,” the group has a string of slow-jam hits: “Computer Love,” “I Want To Be Your Man” and “Slow & Easy,” to name a few. After nearly 30 years of inspiring legions to bounce, rock, pop and lock, founding members and brothers Lester and Terry “Zapp” Troutman are ready to lay it down for another generation of funkateers when they return to Bakersfield to headline Art Laboe’s Valentine’s Super Love Jam at Rabobank Theater Friday night. “Parents will tell me they were raised on our music,” said Lester Troutman during a telephone call from their home state of Ohio. “That’s one of most incredible things to hear, that they’re passing it on. Sometimes it’s chilling when you think about it. You have three generations listening.” Troutman added that, along with those accolades, they do on occasion get a little too much information from fans. “In California, I’ve had quite a few people come to me and say they named one of their kids after one of our songs or after the band, because they were conceived while the song ‘Computer Love’ was on. That’s crazy, but very cool.” “We had a lot of luck,” added Terry

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZAPP

Legendary funk group Zapp headlines Art Laboe’s Valentine’s Super Love Jam at Rabobank Theater Friday night.

Art Laboe’s Valentine’s Super Love Jam with Zapp, Evelyn “Champagne” King, The Moments, Ray Goodman and Brown, Barbara Mason, Malo, MC Magic, Amanda Perez, Sophia Maria When: 8 p.m. Friday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Cost: $35 to $50 plus service charge Information: 852-7777 or ticketmaster.com.com

Troutman. “My brothers were always talking about something positive when it came to slow songs. ‘As We Lay’ (a song about infidelity they recorded with singer Shirley Murdock), I guess you can say that was really pretty and positive, depending on how you look at it.” I’m going to date myself, but I’ve witnessed the Zapp concert spectacle a handful of times, going back to 1983 at the Civic Auditorium (now Rabobank Theater) after the release of “Zapp II.” The group’s late bandleader

Roger Troutman entered from behind the crowd, carrying his guitar to the tune of, “Do It, Roger.” They blew away The Gap Band, which was headlining the show. Then it happened again at the Fox sometime during the ’90s when Zapp appeared with Cameo and the Mary Jane Girls. I was working backstage, and Roger Troutman requested some fresh coffee before he went on. I had to stay, but a buddy of mine, Dale Ridenour, made a mad dash to Dagny’s. Upon his return, Roger took a few sips and said, “Thank you,” before the band kicked off a wild, non-stop danceathon for nearly 90 minutes straight. There’s no denying that distinctive “boom-clap” Zapp beat sound, sampled on thousands of hip-hop records. Then there’s Roger Troutman’s electro talk box vocals, which for years had been associated with Peter Frampton’s “Show Me the Way.” “We were emulating what was popular at the time, which was George Clinton,” said Lester Troutman. “Bootsy Collins came to Cincinnati and saw us in a nightclub, and he took us to Detroit to meet George. We went into the studio, and he had those

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.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID NAIL

Rising country artist David Nail will perform in front of a sold-out house at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace Saturday night.

big handclaps on ‘Flashlight’ and ‘Tear the Roof Off.’ George showed us the formula. We worked on the handclap sound until we got it right. Roger was the producer, he was tight. We put the handclap and the funk in there, and that was it.” He added they were crafting beats years before the introduction and rise of today’s studio wizardry. “Young people today think we got those sounds with whatever new beat-making machine that is out there. That was me with a bass drum, a squeaky Ludwig speed king bass pedal, and wood chips all around the floor at the end of the session. The handclaps were just guys sitting around clapping, and the tape just ran. We’d record 30 minutes clapping our hands straight sometimes. There was no Pro Tools, loops or samples. It was human, all blood and meat.” So, what’s the secret to formulating the perfect slow jam to get the mood going? Lester Troutman explained it explicitly: Guys pay attention. This is serious V-Day playlist advice coming from one of the masters of the genre. “It’s about the tempo, mood and what you’d like the song to

do to a person. If you wanna bump ’n’ grind or you want the person to feel happy, or comin’ out of their clothes, you set that beat and tempo. I’m a drummer, I know. This is real. You get the beat, and you get the vibe right. Then you lay down the bass and the vocal hook. You gotta know what you want your woman to feel.” I can dig that.

Selling out Rising country singer David Nail can remember where he was the day he found out his latest single, “Let It Rain,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard country charts: Pacing frantically moments before the official reports were released last month, the 32-year-old Missouri native says he almost didn’t make it. “We’d been following the chart closely days leading up to it. I was neck and neck with the Zac Brown Band,” he said via telephone from his current home in Nashville. “We knew we had a good chance, but the nervous energy was almost too much.” After celebrating his milestone with a few cold ones, Nail said his elation was topped off with even Please see 29

Thursday, February 9, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

PHOTO COURTESY OF EAGLE MOUNTAIN CASINO

Comedian/musician Steve Martin will be appearing with The Steep Canyon Rangers bluegrass band at Eagle Mountain Casino on Saturday.

Martin trades comedy for hot bluegrass banjo BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

t’s no coincidence we haven’t caught much of Steve Martin on the big screen lately. Currently moonlighting with bluegrass outfit The Steep Canyon Rangers, the 66year old comedian/actor/author/musician has been spotted on TV and across the country showing off his banjo pickin’ skills on the festival circuit. Now he’s back on the road, stopping by Eagle Mountain Casino on Saturday as part of a promotional tour in support of the group’s Grammy-nominated CD, “Rare Bird Alert.” But if you’re thinking about running to buy tickets, you’re out luck. The show sold out faster than you can say King Tut. For local bluegrass aficionado Craig Wilson, who purchased tickets early, Saturday’s show will offer a chance to evaluate Martin’s skills in front of what he anticipates to be a very lively audience. “I’m curious to see him play since he’s been playing a lot more lately,” said Wilson, who plays guitar and mandolin with Bakersfield bluegrass group The Roustabouts and co-organizes the local 48Hour Bluegrass Jam. “I think it’s cool and so great for the music, too, because of his notoriety and acclaim. People unaware of bluegrass probably wouldn’t walk across the street if it cost them 25 cents to watch us, but I think they would if Steve Martin were playing.” Wilson doesn’t downplay Martin’s playing and latest project, adding he’s been familiar with the comedian’s appreciation for bluegrass since watching Martin’s stand-up comedy routines in the 1970s. Wearing his signature white suit and mock arrow-through-the-head for laughs, Martin would always surprise audiences by ripping it up on the banjo between jokes. “When he played, he could play,” Wilson said. “I always wished he would play more, but it was more part of his shtick back then. From what I’ve read, he was exposed to a lot of the early bluegrass stuff when he was young: The Dillards, Kentucky Colonels. I believe he also became friends with John McEuen of The Nitty Gritty Dirt

Band.” “Rare Bird Alert” is Martin’s second fulllength bluegrass recording. His first, “The Crow: New Songs for the 5-String Banjo,” was released three years ago to critical acclaim, earning him a Grammy for Best Bluegrass Recording. Last November Martin could also be heard narrating the PBS documentary “Give Me the Banjo,” which chronicled the history of the stringed instrument and its impact on music dating back to colonial times. “It’s a music you get a fire for once you get into it, and he’s written a lot of new songs,” said Wilson. “You can’t say Steve’s the greatest banjo player, but he’s really good. Had he devoted more of his time to being a student of the banjo, I imagine he’d be phenomenal.” Martin’s bandmates, The Steep Canyon Rangers, are no strangers to Bakersfield. According to Wilson, he helped book the band opening night of The Great 48 Hour Bluegrass Jam three years ago. “We got them when they weren’t too expensive. They were en route to the River City bluegrass festival and were able to get a flight here a day earlier than our show. We call ’em The Steeps.” Saturday’s show will be the second on the scheduled seven-date tour for Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers, with more to be announced. The majority of reviews from last year’s trek were favorable. Brenda Rushing of Pegasusnews.com wrote of Martin’s show at the Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas: “This is not another attempt from an actor halfheartedly trying to claim another profession in between movies, although he did mention that he has no idea why people come to see him play. He joked that it would be like Jerry Seinfeld picking up the kazoo and going on tour and his fans thinking it was a good idea. Martin is a seasoned banjo player with confidently swift fingers and a satisfying amount of his own songs.” Wilson is certain Saturday’s show will be a hoot. “I’m expecting kind of a variety of some really good hard-core bluegrass, with some eclectic stuff. I think it’s going to be a very entertaining show.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 9, 2012

Eye Street

Presented by

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

FREE ADMISSION LIVINGPIANO.COM

“The Living Piano” is a musical history presentation by pianist Robert Estrin, who takes the audience through the history and development of keyboard instruments.

‘Living Piano’ in tune for music, history lovers KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Cathy Rigby will discuss

Balancing Wellness at 2 pm

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.

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

s there such a thing as too much success in the performing arts? You wouldn’t think so, but consider what happened last year during the presentation of “The Living Piano: A Journey Through Time.” “It was standing room only,” said Donna Calanchini, president of the Kern County chapter of the Music Teachers Association of California (MTAC), the sponsor of the 2011 performance as well as the encore show scheduled for Sunday. “There were people standing in the hall.” “I don’t know how many people we had to turn away,” Calanchini said. “The Living Piano” is a musical history presentation by pianist Robert Estrin, who takes the audience through the history and development of keyboard instruments. Beginning with the harpsichord, Estrin and a protege or two dress in period costumes and perform works from the Baroque, Classical and Romantic period, teaching about the composers as well as the music they wrote, while switching to the next instrument in the piano’s evolution — the fortepiano, and finally the concert grand. Estrin, a pianist and educator, is also a composer, piano collector and restorer and seller of antique pianos. He has presented his “Living Piano” program all over the United States, and has appeared on PBS. Calanchini said the program is not just aimed at piano students. “People that are interested in history are going to be interested in that,” Calanchini said. “(Last year) it was an all-ages audience — we had fairly young children all the way up to grandparents, and they certainly all weren’t pianists.” Last year’s presentation was offered in the choir room at CSUB. This year, Estrin will perform in the Dore Theatre. Calanchi-

‘The Living Piano: A Journey Through Time’ When: 4 p.m. Sunday Where: Dore Theatre, Cal State Bakersfield, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: Free Information: 654-3093

ni admitted that despite the problems, the choir room offered something the Dore will not — intimacy. “Before the program last year, and after the program, we invited the audience to come up and play on the instruments,” said Calanchini, who added that Estrin was able to interact with audience members, answer questions and perform additional musical examples. The Kern County MTAC is made up of 24 members, and Calanchini stressed that membership is not limited to piano teachers. The chapter’s activities include monthly recitals for students, three adjudicated festivals over the school year, plus the Certificate of Merit examination each March. The certificate program assesses students’ progress in learning music theory and establishes curriculum guidelines for music teachers. Calanchini said the certificate program, which is used statewide, was the brainchild of a local teacher. “I’m pretty proud that the idea came from someone in Bakersfield,” Calanchini said. In addition to performing, Calanchini said students get a chance to give back. She said the students participate in two donation drives each year, collecting items that are then given to the Jamison Center. Students also may serve in the Music Students Service League, which sponsors performances in retirement and long-term care facilities.

Thursday, February 9, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 9, 2012

Eye Street

American Made and so much more

She’s been there, done that Broadway veteran brings show to town BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI

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roadway stage veteran Jeri Sager brings her version of Broadway to Bakersfield Wednesday for the Bakersfield Community Concert Association series at the Rabobank Theater. Over her career, Sager has performed as a singer and dancer on Broadway, in national tours, on television and in film, and has performed as a cabaret singer. After studying vocal performance at Catholic University, Sager got her first serious Broadway notice as Fruma-Sarah in the 25th anniversary revival of “Fiddler on the Roof.” While on tour, her many roles included Eva Peron in “Evita,” Grizabella in “Cats” and Fantine in “Les Miserables.” As a working actress, she has appeared in several prime-time network and cable shows, and had a supporting role in the 2010 film “Country Strong,” starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Tim McGraw. Sager has combined this varied

‘Broadway by Jeri’ When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $50; includes four concerts for 2011-2012 season Information: 589-2478

experience into a one-woman cabaret show called “Broadway by Jeri,” in which the performer sings a variety of Broadway hits from shows in which she has appeared, with songs such as “Memory,” “I Dreamed a Dream” and “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina,” as signature moments. Sager also includes her versions of other Broadway hits, such as “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” “Over the Rainbow,” “Luck, Be a Lady” and many others. Sager has long been a favorite on the community concert association “circuit,” performing for thousands of people around the United States and abroad. The Tehachapi High School Jazz Combo will perform in the lobby before the concert. Although the Bakersfield Community Concert Association sells the

PHOTO COURTESY OF JERISAGER.COM

Jeri Sager will perform Wednesday at Rabobank Theater as part of the Bakersfield Community Concert Association's series.

concert series as a subscription package, pro-rated tickets are available for this concert and the rest of the season, which includes four concerts. Pro-rated prices are $15 for high school students, $25 for college students and $50 for adults, and are available at the door or by calling 5892478.

A one-of-a-kind gift for your love BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

iamonds are a girl’s best friend, but many women are looking for something a bit more creative for Valentine’s Day. Gift seekers should buddy up to Diana Campbell-Rice, who is hosting a custom jewelry show today at Metro Galleries. Campbell-Rice, who has shown her work at the gallery before, will offer pieces from her three lines — Industrial Bling, Tiny Crow and Comfort — which feature vintage beads, moderncontemporary charms on silver-plate or stainless steel ball chain. The artist also has something special in store. “I created a very limited selection of sterling silver pieces just for this show,” Campbell-Rice said. Purchases, which range from $20 to $90, come with a card with a Valentine’s message, designed by the artist. Holding the show in an art gallery is a good fit, Campbell-Rice said, because the works are just as enduring. “Jewelry lasts — flowers, dinner and chocolates are fabulous and important, but a piece of jewelry, just like an art piece, is a continual celebration long after the event is past.” Taking that an added step by selecting a custom piece makes the gift unique. “When someone chooses custom

PHOTO COURTESY OF DIANA CAMPBELL RICE

Local artist Diana Campbell Rice will offer an array of custom-designed jewelry perfect for a Valentine's Day gift during her Designs for the Heart event today at Metro Galleries.

Jewelry with Heart Jewelry show with wine, hors d’oeuvres, music by Kama Ruby When: 5 to 8 p.m. today Where: Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. Information: 634-9598 or themetrogalleries.com

jewelry, I like to think the piece speaks to that person and he or she

knows it isn’t being reproduced on a large commercial scale — makes it individual and special.” Along with the show, guests can enjoy a look at Metro’s current exhibit, “Awakenings,” which opened Friday. The three-artist family show features the works of Art Sherwyn; his mother, Doris; and his wife’s uncle, Dean Johnson. Metro owner Don Martin said a portion of the gallery’s sales from the event will benefit the Bakersfield AIDS Project and Ricky's Retreat.

Thursday, February 9, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM 24

more good news — he’d also just sold out a scheduled appearance at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace within a few days of topping the charts. The show happens this Saturday night. “I was really surprised. I’ve been to Bakersfield once for an acoustic radio show a couple years ago, but I vaguely remember it. When you haven’t been many places like myself, news like this is just huge.” It doesn’t hurt that he’s had some heavy hitters on his production side, like Rolling Stones keyboardist and music director Chuck Leavell, plus platinum artists Miranda Lambert and Lee Ann Womack. “With all of the things that have happened leading up to this show, I’m coming to Bakersfield at a prime time. I hope whoever’s reading this got some tickets.” Saturday’s showtime is 7 p.m. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is located at 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. For more information call 328-7560.

Cheyanne video release party Aspiring 15-year-old local country starlet Cheyanne Welch will be celebrating the release of a new music video for her single, “Perfectly Imperfect,” at Round Table Pizza in Bakersfield tonight. According to a press release, the video was directed by Bakersfield filmmaker Paul “Doc” Nigh of Futuristic Productions and features a cast of local extras. The video was unavailable for review; however, the single “Perfectly Imperfect” was. With its “you are beautiful inside and out” theme and Taylor Swift-ish pop arrangement, the single is as catchy and sweet as anything Swift has done to tug on the heart strings of teenagers. In addition to the debut of the video, there will be a Q&A session and CD autograph session with the singer, as well as a meet-and-greet with the cast. You can check out “Perfectly Imperfect” at

CONTINUED FROM 22

from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday that includes vendors, refreshments and entertainment. Proceeds will benefit the local Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault. Up until now, said Guinevere PH Dethlefson, coordinator of the this year’s events, the theater has raised more than $22,000 for the Alliance from its V-day productions and fairs. Eve Ensler’s “Vagina Monologues,” directed by Alison Martin, will be presented at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. “Herstory” is slated for the theater’s late show slot at 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. “All of the monologues that will be in ‘Herstory’ will be original true stories about women, written and performed by the people that lived them,” said Michelle Guerrero Tolley, the director. A new production, it was conceived by Tolley during her experience as co-director, with Martin, of last’s year’s “Vagina Monologues.” “As an exercise for our actors we had each of them write their own monologues and then share them with each other, kind of like their very own ‘Vagina Monologues,’” she said. “The stories they came up with were so beautiful, poignant and sad that I wanted to bring those stories and others to as many other people as possible.” Tolley said she also is encouraging men to take part in “Herstory,” perhaps writing

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHEYANNE WELCH

Local teen country singer Cheyanne Welch debuts her music video tonight.

myspace.com/PerfectlyImperfect96. Tonight’s event begins at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Round Table Pizza is located at 4200 Gosford Road. For more information call 397-1111.

Welcome back, Hag Welcome news came down Wednesday from Merle Haggard’s publicist, Tresa Redburn, who reports the country legend will be back on the road Feb. 28 after being sidelined weeks ago with pneumonia. The first show of his 20-city tour will be in Tucson, Ariz. “I’m feeling good and ready to get back on the bus,” Haggard said in the media release. “Thanks to all for their powerful prayers that led to my speedy recovery. I’m rehearsing with the band and looking forward to playin’ and singin’ again.”

stories about how women have affected their lives. As of this writing, however, only women are scheduled to participate. They are Jan Hefner, Gai Smith, Caroline Clark, Kaitlin Hulsey, Martin and Dethlefson.

Weatherford paintings at CSUB Off and on for the past four months, Mary Weatherford, an artist who lives in Los Angeles, has been getting to know Bakersfield by visiting with an array of local residents and doing research in libraries and museums. In recent weeks she has lived here full time as she created, with the assistance of students from Cal State Bakersfield, an exhibition that opens this evening on campus in the Todd Madigan Gallery. “Mary makes paintings with vinyl paint on linen and gesso,” said Joey Kotting, curator. “And some of these particular paintings will have ‘slithers’ of neon lighting on them — they are really beautiful.” Weatherford, who was born in Ojai, studied at Princeton for her bachelor’s degree in art history/visual arts and earned her master of fine arts at Bard College in upstate New York. She has exhibited internationally and in the United States. Her most recent solo show, “Cave at Pismo,” was held in 2011 at Brennan & Griffin, a contemporary art gallery in New York City. The Madigan Gallery’s usual hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 15 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free.

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 9, 2012

Eye Street Go & Do Today Jewelry with Heart, Valentinethemed jewelry show and sale by artist Diana Campbell Rice, with wine, hors d’oeuvres, music by Kama Ruby, 5 to 8 p.m., Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. 634-9598. Movie Showing of “The Help,” 6:30 p.m., Bakersfield High School, in Harvey Auditorium, 1241 G St. Free. “Glorious March to Liberty,” a special Black History month reception and lecture with Hari Jones, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., DoubleTree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. Poetry featuring Larry Etue, a local writer and poet who will be reading several of his poems, others are welcome to bring prose and poetry, sign-ups begin at 6:45 p.m., readings begin at 7 p.m., Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. 6654686. California History Day, 9 to 11:30 a.m., Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $10 adults; $9 students (13-17)/seniors; $8 (612); $7 children 3 to 5; under 3 are free. 868-8400. Kern Leadership Alliance Breakfast, with speaker Dr. Daniel Chang, 7 to 8 a.m., The Petroleum Club, 5060 California Ave. $15 advance; $20 at the door. 323-8002. Nebraska’s Chamber Choir, 7 p.m., St. John’s Lutheran Church, 4500 Buena Vista Road. 800-5355494 ext. 7282 or 665-7815. Red Cross New Volunteer Orientation, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., American Red Cross, Kern Chapter, 5035 Gilmore Ave. 324-6427. 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 Sweethearts Valentine’s Dinner, social time and appetizers, 5:30 to 6 p.m.; dinner, 6 to 7 p.m., Elks Lodge, 1616 30th St. $15. Champagne toast and gift for all attendees. 323-7535. Valentine’s Super Love Jam 2012, with Zapp, Evelyn Champagne, Blue Magic, MC Magic, Sophia Maria and more, 8 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $27.50 to $49.50. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

Saturday Murder Mystery Valentine's Dinner, benefiting the CBCC Foundation, 6 p.m., Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center, 6501 Truxtun Ave. $25 includes dinner, dessert and murder mystery. 8627145. Certified Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road.

Condors vs. Las Vegas Wranglers, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $11 to $25. Tickets: Rabobank box office, ticketmaster.com or 324-7825. David Nail, 7:30 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $17 to $24. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Fifth annual Valentine’s Wine & Chocolate Walk, with 10 wine tastings and chocolates, 5:30 to 9 p.m., in downtown Tehachapi. $25 advance; $30 day of event. Tickets at The Apple Shed Restaurant or Picture Perfect. 822-6519. Flamenco & Classical Guitar Class, taught by John Gomez, for individuals or a group, from 1:30 to 4 p.m., Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. 496-0891 or 327-7507. Gentle Giants: Mozart, Strauss & Mahler, 8 p.m., the theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave., $34-$50 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000. Grand Hollywood Love Stories, gourmet cuisine, auction, music, dancing, 6 p.m., The Petroleum Club, 5060 California Ave. $150. Email richard.navarro@cancer.org or 559-451-0163. Kern Audubon Field Trip, to Kern & Pixley Wildlife Refugee to see ducks and winter birds, 8 a.m., Costco, 3800 Rosedale Highway. kernaudubonsociety.org or 8217702. Star Party with Kern Astronomical Society, 8 to 10 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. 487-2519. Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers, 8 p.m., Eagle Mountain Casino, 681 S. Tule Reservation Road, Porterville. $35 to $45. eaglemtncasino.com or 800-903-3353. 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 Kern Audubon Field Trip, field trip to Pixley National Wildlife Refuge to see Sandhill Cranes, meet near the gas station at 4 p.m., Costco, 3800 Rosedale Highway. $10. kernaudubonsociety.org or 322-7470. Mardi Gras Fundraiser, for Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, noon to 9 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. Free parking and admission. 833-4900. The Living Piano: A Journey Through Time concert, 4 to 5 p.m., CSUB, Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free. Visit livingpiano.com.

WWE Smackdown Live, 5 p.m., Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $23.80-$80. ticketmaster.com or call 800-7453000.

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. “Into the Woods,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Spotlight Theatre, 1622 19th St. $25; $22 students/seniors. 634-0692 or thespotlighttheatre.com. “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. “The Drowsy Chaperone,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $50 to $55; matinee $40 to $50. 325-6100. Auditions, for “Wonderful Time,” noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Email danielleradon@gmail.com or 327PLAY. HERSTORY, 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 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. JVDay 2012, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $20. 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. The Living Piano: A Journey Through Time, with guest Robert Estrin, 4 p.m. Sunday, CSUB, Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free. 654-3093.

ART Nancy Merrick, artwork on display for the month of February, Capitol Real Estate Group, 1700 Chester Ave. Art Classes, in drawing, watercolor, oils, color theory, for beginners and advanced, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320. Art Exhibit by Mary Weatherford, on display now until March 9, CSUB, Todd Madigan Gallery, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Gallery hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays. 654-2238.

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. Bakersfield Art Association Meeting, with Nicole St. John, 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320. 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. The Art Shop Club, 9 a.m. to noon each Thursday, Friday and Saturday, The Art Shop, 1221 20th St. All mediums. 322-0544, 5897463 or 496-5153.

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

Classic Rock Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; Jukebox Cover Band, 9 p.m. Saturday. Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Usual Suspects, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Crest Bar & Grill, inside Bakersfield RV Resort, 5025 Wible Road. 833-9998; Mike Montanoa, 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday. Ethel’s Old Corral Cafe, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Open Range, 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday. Jacalito Grill, 900 Truxtun Ave., Suite 110, 325-2535; Prisoners of Love, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; Elevation 406, 9 p.m. Friday.

Comedy Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Improv Tuesday — Live comedy with DJ after party, 9 p.m. Tuesdays. B. Ryder's Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Laugh Out Loud comedy, 8 and 10 p.m. today. $10.

Country Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Still Kickin, 7 p.m. Friday; Twang Bangers, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. 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 African Heritage Dance, Harriet Tubman Legacy series with Ayo, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Studio 9, 4000 Easton Drive., Suite 9. $8 per class, $20 for three. Email sharpemouzon@yahoo.com. 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. Mavericks Singles, ballroom and country dancing with music by Bluetooth Cowboys, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Kern City Town Hall, 1003 Pebble Beach Drive. $7 member; $9 guest. 831-9241. Pairs & Spares Dance, Valentine Dance with CRS Riders, wear red or pink, bring favorite salad or dessert, 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. 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.

Thursday, February 9, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; with Meg, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; DJ BK, 9 p.m. Saturday.

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

Karaoke B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; 8 p.m. Thursdays and Tuesdays. Banacek’s Lounge, 9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday at 4601 State Road. 387-9224. Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursdays and Sundays. Big Daddy Pizza, 6417 Ming Ave., 396-7499; 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday; 8 to 11 p.m. every Friday. Cactus Valley Mexican Restaurant, 4215 Rosedale Highway, 633-1948; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday; beer pong and happy hour all day Sunday. Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 4200 New Stine Road, 397-5000; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday. Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 6111 Niles St., 363-7200; 6:15 to 10:15 p.m. Tuesdays. 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.

‘CALIFORNIAN RADIO’ Join the Eye Street team of Jennifer Self, Stefani Dias and Matt Munoz this morning when they welcome Elizabeth Herrera of the Kern County Museum, who will tell potential brides and grooms of a special way to spend Valentine’s Day. Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; 9 p.m. Wednesday. Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; 6 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; 7 to 11 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. Julie’s The Branding Iron Saloon, 1807 N. Chester Ave., 6 to 10 p.m. every Friday. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; A to Z Karaoke, 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays. Lone Oak Inn, 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 10612 Rosedale Highway. 589-0412. 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, 3971111; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Pour House, 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at 4041 Fruitvale Ave. 589-9300. Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; 8 p.m. to midnight Saturdays. 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; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

In addition, we’ll offer our picks for the best way to spend your entertainment dollar over the next week. To join in the fun, call 842KERN. “Californian Radio” broadcasts from 9 to 10 a.m. weekdays on KERN, 1180-AM. Tejon Club, 6 to 10 p.m. every Saturday at 117 El Tejon Ave. 3921747. The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Junction Lounge, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. The Old River Monte Carlo, 9750 Taft Highway, 837-0250; 8:30 p.m. every Thursday. The Playhouse, 2915 Taft Highway; 397-3599; 7 to 10 p.m. Sundays. The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; hosted by Ed Loverr, 9 p.m. to midnight Friday. The Regent, 2814 Niles St., 8714140; 8:30 p.m. every other Friday. The Wrecking Yard, 9817 S. Union Ave., 827-9192; 7 to 10 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Wright Place, 2695-G Mount Vernon Ave., 872-8831, 8 p.m. every Thursday. Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 1440 Weedpatch Highway. 3635102. 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.

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

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

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

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

Old school Jacalito Grill, 900 Truxtun Ave., 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, 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. $5 per night.

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 Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; live bands, 9 p.m. every Thursday. B. Ryder's Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Rear View Mirror, 9 p.m. Friday. $5 Friday. 21 & over only.

Ska/reggae The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; Mento Buru & DJ Mikey, 9 p.m. Friday. $5. 21 & over only. B. Ryder's Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Velorio, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5.

Songwriters The Rustic Rail Saloon, 147 E. Norris Road, 393-0456, Songwriter’s Showcase with host David Reeves Carpenter, sign up begins at 6 p.m.; 7 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

Soul/pop Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Steve Mazzetta, 9 p.m. Thursday.

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., 3228900; Trivia Night with Dave Rezac, 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

UPCOMING EVENTS Monday 2/20 Book Signing and "Meet-andGreet," with Victoria Christopher Murray and ReShonda Tate Billingsley, noon to 1 p.m., Russo's, 9000 Ming Ave. 665-4686 or russosbooks.com 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. Kern County Rose Society Meeting, 7 p.m., Calvary Bible Church, 48 Manor St. 327-3228

Tuesday 2/14 “Let’s Talk” about “The Help,” an informal book discussion of the novel “The Help,” that takes place in Jackson, Miss. during the ’60s and exposes the racial divide which existed during that time, 2

to 3:30 p.m., Bakersfield Senior Center, 540 4th St. Free. Fifth annual Good for the Heart Singles Only, with raffles, speeddating session, mingling, dinner at 6 p.m., activities at 6:30 p.m., The Garden Spot, 3320 Truxtun Ave. Free but you need a ticket to attend. 323-3236. Guild House Valentine’s Day Dinner, five-course meal, 6 p.m., Guild House, 1905 18th St. $65 per person. Reservations, 325-5478. Painting by Candlelight, with chocolates and sparkling cider, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $20 per couple, plus cost of pottery. bakersfield.colormemine.com or 664-7366. Romantic Valentine Dinner, five-course meal, 6 p.m., Guild House, 1905 18th St. $65 per person. 325-5478. 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. Valentine’s Day Lunch, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar, 1310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160. 864-0397.

Wednesday 2/15 Bakersfield Community Concert Association, presents Jeri Sager in “Broadway by Jeri,” 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., the theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $50; includes four concerts for 2011-2012 season. 205-8522 or 589-2478. CASA Volunteer Orientation, learn how to make a difference in the life of an abused, abandoned or neglected child, noon to 1 p.m. and 5 to 6 p.m., CASA, 2000 24th St. kerncasa.org or 631-2272. Kern Photography Association, all skill levels welcome, 6 to 8 p.m., Henley’s Photo, 2000 H St. kernphotographyassociation.com or 496-3723. League of Women Voters, guest speaker Pam Baugher discussing her experiences running for public office, 5:45 to 7:45 p.m., Marie Callendar’s, 3801 California Ave. $25. 634-3773. Panel Discussion, “Ethics, Justice and the Mortgage Crisis,” with Louis Gill, Aaron Hegde, Steve Renock, Christopher Meyers-Moderator, 7 p.m., CSUB, Student Union multipurpose room, 9001 Stockdale Highway. 654-2555.

Thursday 2/16 “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.