Bakersfield Californian Eye Street / 3-17-11

20

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 17, 2011

Eye Street

Index Hamlet at Spotlight Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 BC Choir performs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Arts Alive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Bakersfield Fiesta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 10th Annual Rock and Gem Show . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Lenten Organ Recital Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31-33

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

You’ll be dancing a jig at their gig Veteran musicians join forces to celebrate Irish roots

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

B

akersfield Irish music duo O’ Shebeen plans on hitting today’s St. Patty’s party circuit like a couple of mischievous leprechauns.

Formerly of popular local bands The Filthies and 1916, members Kenny Mount and Robbie Byrne have retooled their sound from punk to purist. And if you’re lucky, you just might get a chance to catch them live throughout the day. Byrne, who’s more than proficient on the Irish Uillean pipes, penny whistle and highland bagpipes, teamed with Bodhran drummer, vocalist and guitarist Mount.

“We’re going to be performing some very traditional music,” said Mount. “We’ll be digging deep into the roots of the sound.”

Byrne, who considers himself an authority on the subject, assures audiences of the authenticity of their style.

“If you see a leprechaun on my head while I’m playing, it really is a leprechaun,” he said in his thick Dublin accent. “Irish music is more of a free and easy music,” he added. “People get it confused with Scottish music. It’s not the same.”

And Byrne should know. After all, he came to Bakersfield direct from the isle of lush green countrysides, Guinness Stout and good ol’ St. Patrick. But he has a dash of the English thrown in to keep things interesting.

“I was born in Birmingham (England), while my parents were on vaca from Dublin,” he smiled.

For inquiring fans of The Filthies, the 40-year-old Mount candidly opened up about the group’s abrupt 2010 breakup.

“We we’re doing a little state run back at the end of 2009, but they had us booked with some young bands — twentysomethings, bouncing all over the stage and tearing it up — and it just popped our whole balloon, trying to keep up with these youngsters. We didn’t really say anything to each other. We just realized it was our time.

“Eric ‘Guppy’ Bonilla — the band’s drummer — moved to Santa Barbara, and (bassist) Kelley

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Kenny Mount, left, and Robbie Byrne, veterans of several local bands, have formed O’ Shebeen, a traditional Irish music duo.

O’ Shebeen When: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. today Where: Shamrock’s Irish Pub, 4715 Coffee Road Information: Available for pickup shows throughout the day. Call Robbie Byrne at 363-3682 or e-mail R.Byrne32@yahoo.com.

Ratliff had moved to San Diego.

We tried to do it again, but became really critical of ourselves.

By that time I was already craving some Irish music.”

Mount added that there may be some one-off Filthies shows for locals in the future, but not for a while.

“We’re gonna leave it how it is for now. I’ll probably record some of the last songs we wrote myself.”

Long before joining Mount, Byrne, 55, had already logged in some serious musical miles going

back to introducing ’70s Scottish glam heartthrobs the Bay City Rollers onstage and his early years as a U.K. bagpipe-playing champion. Joining the Scots Guards division of the British Army from 1970 to 1977 as a soldier and bagpiper, he also performed for the royal family as well as for former President Ronald Reagan in subsequent years.

“The Scots Guards pipers are the best there is,” he said. “You had to audition three times. You can’t get any higher than that.

When we’d play for Lizzie (Queen Elizabeth) we used to walk around the dinner table at Buckingham Palace and she’d look up at us.

Afterwards she’d give us all a bottle of whiskey.”

Byrne’s busy life was shaken after losing his second wife to cancer in 2003. Traveling the world in the year following her passing, Byrne landed in Bakersfield in 2004 to visit his sister, who had relocated here years earlier with

her husband. He met his present wife, Diane, during the visit and found a new permanent home when they married in 2006.

Since then, Byrne has done his best to spread the music of his homeland both as a soloist and as a member of local Celtic rock group 1916.

Leaving the rock stage after three years to return to his traditional roots, he said a chance meeting with Mount helped inspire the project they’d both been hoping to start for years.

Byrne, the seasoned vet, became the ideal mentor to Mount, also of Irish heritage.

“I’d always been involved in the Scottish Society. Once I met Robbie with his pipes, he said, ‘Bust out that drum!,’” said Mount.

Calling themselves O’ Shebeen, which in Irish means “illegal drinking pub,” the two are excited to begin the next chapter in their musical careers.

“We’ll be giving listeners lots of

Inside More St. Patrick’s Day events, 31

jigs, reels, horn pipes,” said Byrne.

“It’s a people’s music.”

But music fans will have to stay on their toes to catch the wandering pair, who will embark on a busy schedule today that could change at a moment’s notice.

“My heart will be pumping — it’ll be a workout,” said Byrne, who noted the two have been booked for some private shows and will be busking downtown, always up for any offers to play.

In addition to their new group, Mount said the two have been actively organizing a new Bakersfield Irish Heritage Society.

“We’ll be cross-promoting with the Scottish Society, with a quarterly newsletter. It’ll have a little bit of everything — stories, news and networking.”

21

Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

“I had hung up my hat on my (professional) career when we moved back to Bakersfield.

But as an actor, it’s one of those roles that’s almost impossible to turn down. And I’ve known Brian for 14 years — I trust him.”

— Jon Sampson on his starring role in “Hamlet”

Forget the ‘not to be’: ‘Hamlet’ lures actor back

BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing columnist

B

Sh ak Writ es ten pe by ar Direc ted an e d Ada pted b y Brian S ivesind

HAMLET

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Director Brian Sivesind prepares his crew and cast of “Hamlet” for a run-through at the Spotlight Theatre Sunday.

‘Hamlet’ When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Spotlight Theatre, 1622 19th St. Admission: $22 to $25 Information: 634-0692

Jon Sampson will star in “Hamlet” at the Spotlight Theatre.

hours or less.

“I've tried really hard to edit the play down to bite size-chunks,” the director said. “It's so massive in length and scope (but) with the story told in snippets of memories from Hamlet’s life I’m hoping this production will keep the audience completely engaged.”

Known for his innovative methods — he used computer monitors and Facebook images for last year’s “Romeo and Juliet”— Sivesind is using a different sort of technology in this production by incorporating various versions of the eerie and surrealistic music of British band Radiohead.

“Radiohead has a very Hamletesque feel, and I chose their music as my palette,” the director said. “The music shouldn't overwhelm the production, but simply inform it.”

The cast includes only 10 actors, with some performing more than one part.

Those in lead roles are Porter Jamison, Bob Kempf, Kamala Kruszka, Joe Cannon and a number of CSUB students. Performances continue on weekends at Spotlight through April 9.

comes to life on the Spotlight stage as only we can tell it.

Directed by Brian Sivesind, and filled with some of the top talent in Bakersfield, this will be a play not to be missed!

Mar. 18 - Apr. 9

rian Sivesind seems to have an unusual knack for persuading friends to appear in his productions.

His most recent recruit — but not for the first time — is Jon Sampson who will play the lead in “Hamlet” at Spotlight Theatre.

“I had hung up my hat on my (professional) career when we moved back to Bakersfield,” Sampson said. “But as an actor, it’s one of those roles that’s almost impossible to turn down. And I’ve known Brian for 14 years — I trust him.”

Sivesind is both confident and enthusiastic about Sampson’s ability to star in the Shakespeare tragedy.

“I’m especially excited about Jon playing Hamlet,” the director said. “It’s a huge role in an actor’s career, and Jon is at a perfect place in his life to play it. He’s going to be wonderful.”

Oddly enough, it was Sivesind who got Sampson interested in acting in the late 1990s when both were attending Cal State Bakersfield. He encouraged him to join a theater group called Illusions of Grandeur.

“I was a business major and into computers — I didn’t know anything about acting,” Sampson said, laughing as he added, “I kind of fell in with the wrong crowd.”

After graduation, finding himself hooked on stagecraft, the actor went on to get his master of fine arts degree from the University of San Diego, which had a graduate program in conjunction with the city’s Old Globe Theatre. It’s also where he met his wife, Jennifer Sampson, who now teaches at Bakersfield College.

For the past decade Jon has been active in television and had a small part in the 2008 film “Revolutionary Road,” starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio. Now, however, he’s turned away from show business and for about the past two years has been involved in the local business world as a financial adviser.

Commenting on his previous career, Sampson said, “We had very good success but we decided we didn’t like the lifestyle.

Loved the work, hated the industry.”

This is the second production he’s been involved in since returning home. He did “True West” last year at Spotlight, directed by his wife.

Even though he hasn’t played “the cranky Dane” until now, he has a clear idea of how he wants to interpret the character.

“I see (Hamlet) as torn, struggling to come to grips with his father’s death and his mother’s betrayal,” Sampson said. “He has his own foibles but he’s more sympathetic than not.”

“Hamlet,” when performed as Shakespeare wrote it, can run four hours or more. But Sivesind has cut it down to three

W ill ia m

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Eye Street

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1622 19th Street Bakersfield, CA

501(c)3 not for profit organization

22

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 17, 2011

Eye Street

Helping the younger generation to skate by

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

D

oesn’t everyone remember their first set of wheels?

For many that symbol of freedom arrived in the form of a fancy piece of maple plywood with gleaming bright paint and wheels meant for speed. Way before driving was even allowed to enter the conversation with mom and dad, that skateboard was a first taste of self-transport and independence.

Three Bakersfield friends — Cameron Simms, Dennis Harrison and Christopher Smith — look back with fondness on that freewheelin’ feeling.

Now the trio, through their Boards 4 Snots campaign, would like to give underprivileged kids a chance to have the same life-building experiences.

“Through skateboarding, we’ve all become lifelong friends, and we still skate today at the local parks,” Harrison said. “As much as we love skating, it was tough seeing two to three kids sharing one board. We knew we could do some-

Boards 4 Snots Donation drop-off sites: Impact Street Wear Valley Plaza, 2701 Ming Ave., and Front Porch Music, 1711 19th St. downtown.

Information: Visit the official Facebook page, facebook.com/B4SSK8

thing about it.”

Simms recalled how one eye-opening moment at the Beach Park skate park last fall inspired their group to take action.

“We saw this 12-year-old kid take a really bad fall, so we rushed over to see if he was OK, then checked out his board set-up. It was really bad,” said Simms. “We started thinking there were probably more kids like this with noisy, unsafe equipment that wasn’t functioning properly.”

Offering helpful advice on board maintenance, the trio began talking to the kids and learned many came from low-income homes. Humbled by what they heard, they decided to get organized. Naming their cause “Board 4 Snots” in

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joking reference to hearing young skateboarders being called “little snots” by irritated adults, their mission began as a simple plan to bring some holiday cheer last Christmas. Collecting slightly used skate decks, wheels, bearings, and trucks from their own garages as well as from friends, they delegated refurbishing duties.

“Cameron and Chris would handle repairing the boards and look for new artwork to paint on them. I would take care of ripping off old grip tape and applying the new tape,” Harrison said. “We kinda felt like Santa’s elves.”

Working long evenings with the support of their wives and families, all three made sure anything leaving their workshop boasted quality materials, some of which arrived with help from local skate shop Impact Streetwear.

Impact store manager Heidi Medeiros said she discovered the group on Facebook one day. Impressed by their mission statement, she reached out to Simms to lend a hand.

“When they need sup-

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Boards 4 Snots takes new and used skateboarding equipment and gives it to kids who otherwise may not be able to afford it. From left are Heidi Medeiros, Christopher Smith, Becky Simms, Cameron Simms, Wendy Harrison and Dennis Harrison.

plies like grip tape, we help them out by buying materials at cost, so they don’t have to pay retail.”

‘The kids didn’t act greedy’ at giveaway With the boost from Impact, the trio mixed new and slightly used parts for the first project, in January.

“We wanted to give the kids something they could be proud of,” said Simms.

Refurbishing 17 skate decks, including 10 complete set-ups, their next move was deciding how to give them away. They ended up making impromptu appearances at local parks.

“I guess it would look a little strange seeing three guys showing up to talk to kids with their car trunk open,” said Simms. “One kid’s mom did walk up kind of slow, but we made sure we explained our reason for being there.”

At their first giveaway, the three inspected boards at a makeshift repair station next to the car.

“The kids were really cooperative and didn’t act greedy. If they didn’t need any help, they would tell us about friends that did,” recalled Harrison. “We like keeping things anonymous without any big song and dance about it. We also don’t make them feel like they owe us anything.”

The price of a new skate deck alone can start at about $99; the fully furnished set-up usually runs around $145.

Even being safe can be expensive, they said.

“We know helmets are required, but how is a kid supposed to pay $25 if he can’t even afford the helmet? That’s too high for some of the parents too,” said Harrison.

“We want the kids to learn to be safe skaters.”

Skateboarding ‘still misunderstood’ Simms blames some of skateboarding’s raw deal on the stigma it bears.

“It’s been underground for so long, it’s still misunderstood by a lot of people. I can sit and tell you about the great things it did for me growing up. Today, we have so many kids sitting in front of the TV playing video games. This is good exercise for them,” he said.

Since their first January giveaway, the group has conducted two more, including one in Taft.

They’ve also set up donation stations where interested parties can drop off slightly used decks, wheels, bearings, trucks, grip tape, hardware, safety gear, and any other related items.

Harrison said the group plans on another surprise Sunday giveaway sometime in April, and that fundraising events are in the works.

“We’d like to combine the interests of the skate community with music, art, when we put the boards and events together,” Smith said.

Simms said everyone involved is dedicated to helping the program grow.

“This whole thing is just a baby right now. We’re going to continue working on this no matter what. It’s all about the kids.”

23

Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Requiem set in memory of mom

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‘Masterpiece’ presents opportunity for BC choir

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

F

riday evening’s Bakersfield College choir concert performance of the Requiem Mass by French composer Gabriel Faure is both a cultural high point in the local entertainment calendar and a deeply personal statement for choir director Ron Kean. “It’s a memorial concert for my mother,�

Kean acknowledged.

Kean’s mother, Edythe, passed away in November of last year.

The BC choir will perform at St. John’s Lutheran Church Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.

The Requiem Mass is a part of the Roman Catholic liturgy, a Mass for the dead, in which prayers are offered requesting the forgiveness of the deceased person’s sins, a sparing from eternal punishment, and a place in heaven. Most great composers, especially Catholic composers, have written Requiem Masses, of which many emphasize the fear of eternal damnation.

Kean said the Faure Requiem presents a gentler view. “(Other composers) deal more in terms of the dramatic, bombastic expression of judgment, the day of wrath when the deceased has to answer for the sins of this life,� Kean said. “Those elements are very gentle in this work.� “Of all the Requiems I know, this one centers in on consolation for the living,� Kean said. “It’s lovely, it’s accessible.�

Kean also emphasizes the increasingly rare educational and musical opportunity of singing a piece of this scope. “They get a chance to sing one of the great masterpieces of the repertoire by one of the great composers,� Kean said.

Kean said while he is not trying to promote any particular religious liturgy or “overtures,� he does see the piece as an example of an issue that concerns everyone. “It’s a way also to sing and discuss a major rite of passage for humanity,� Kean said. “It brings out the best in composers and the best in performers.�

Kean said his students “love the work.� “It’s the most tender and personal of emotions, and at the same time deals with the most dramatic elements of existence,�

Kean said.

Gabriel Faure is considered one of the leading French Romantic composers, and his works have only gained in popularity for their melodic invention, harmonic diversity and sheer beauty. Born in 1845, Faure exhibited extraordinary musical ability at a very early age, and after spending his school-aged years in the study of music, became known as an organist, composer and teacher. He is considered a master of French art song and chamber music, and his large-scale works, including the Requiem, are considered among the crown

TERMINARTORS.COM

Gabriel Faure is considered one of the leading French Romantic composers. He is seen here in a portrait

by John Singer Sargent.

Requiem by Gabriel Faure When: 7:30 p.m. Friday Where: St. John’s Lutheran Church, 4500 Buena Vista Road Admission: $10.50; BC Folk: $5.50 for seniors, BC staff and students and active military with ID; free for children under 12.

jewels of French Romanticism.

Soloists for the performance include soprano Joyce King and bass Fernando Munoz, along with organist Elizabeth Cervantes. Kean said the performance includes a new adapted instrumental arrangement for organ, violin, cello, bass, trumpet and timpani, written by Cervantes with help from Michael Worthing, a supporter of the choir. “It’s been a pretty large undertaking,�

Kean said.

Also joining the BC choir is the Biola University choir, under the direction of Shawna Stewart, in two of the movements. Kean said the choirs will be positioned to create an antiphonal effect in the chapel at St. John’s.

Proceeds from the concert will help pay for the BC’s upcoming concert tour in Hawaii. Kean said the choir has been invited to perform at three locations in Honolulu: St. Philip’s Priory; Kawai ha’o Church, which Kean calls the “Westminster Abbey of the Pacific�; and the Punahou School, which counts President Barack Obama among its alumni.

Tickets for the concert are $10.50 for general admission, $5.50 for seniors, BC staff and students and active military with ID, and free for children under 10.

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24

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 17, 2011

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Frontier pounces on ‘Phantom’ School one of first in nation to tackle classic

GO & DO ‘Phantom of the Opera’

A

ndrew Lloyd Webber’s “Phantom of the Opera” is one of the most powerful and popular musicals of the past 25 years. And it’s being done for the first time locally by students at Frontier High School.

Frontier presents a spring musical every year, says Abby Friedman, the director. But this year is special. The rights for amateur productions of “Phantom” were not released until October of 2010 but are available only to high schools and colleges in the United States and Canada.

“We are one of the first high schools in the nation to tackle this musical,” said Friedman, who teaches theater arts.

Her use of the word “tackle” is right on the money for describing the challenge of “Phantom,” which is especially demanding, even for professionals. The spoken dialogue is limited and those beautiful songs —“Music of the Night” and “Think of Me,” for example — really do carry the story line. Based on a French novel first published a century ago, it concerns a masked individual who haunts the nether regions of the Paris Opera House until his love for a young soprano brings him out of the shadows.

“We will be using (recorded) tracks for the music,” Friedman said. “The only voices people will be hearing in the production (are) the students themselves, no one else.”

The entire cast consists of 31 students.

Tanner Urmston portrays the Phantom and Haley Sullivan plays Christine,

When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday Where: Frontier High School Performing Arts Center, 6401 Allen Road Admission: $10; $8, students and children Information: 549-0812

‘Bedlam at Sam Lynn Ball Park’

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL PRINCE

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Tanner Urmston plays the Phantom and Haley Sullivan is Christine in Frontier High’s “Phantom of the Opera.”

the singer he’s in love with. Others in lead roles are Josh Miller, Chloe Kesler, Taylor Dunn, Rachel McWilliams, Brian Gardiner, Zac Walker and Augie Garcia.

Forrest Madewell is vocal director. Jenn Keller of Fantasy Frocks is assisting with the costumes.

Closing performances for “Phantom” are March 25 and 26.

Quartet reprises 1950s, ’60s “The Diamonds,” a group of four male singers whose style is patterned after a hit quartet of the early rock ‘n’ roll era, will be onstage this evening at the Rabobank. Their appearance is presented by Bakersfield Community Concert Association.

Known for their rhythmic, “doowop” style of singing, the quartet first hit the big-time in 1957 with their recording of “Little Darlin’.”

None of of original members of the close harmony group is still around, and through the years there have been a number of changes in the makeup of the quartet. Today’s “Diamonds”

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

Barb Mercado plays Miss Penny Less in “Bedlam at Sam Lynn Ball Park.”

include Gary Owens, baritone; Joe Finetti, lead; Jerry Siggins, bass; and Bobby Poynton, tenor.

The CSUB Singers, a vocal ensemble from Cal State Bakersfield, will perform in the lobby prior to the main concert. The group is directed by Robert Provencio, chairman of the university’s music department.

Island”— the two theaters are cooperating in other ways. The backdrops for “Bedlam” are on loan from All-American Melodrama and once were used at the old Birdcage Melodrama Theatre at Knott’s Berry Farm.

“Some of (the backdrops) were even used when Steve Martin was a cast member there,” Prince said.

“So there’s a little bit of California melodrama history up on our stage this time around, which we are very excited about.”

Chris Cawthon, Gaslight’s resident technical director, is directing “Bedlam.” The cast includes Jay Stodder, Jay Campbell, Michael Kubik, Jill Burdick, Barb Mercado and Prince.

Linda Larma, co-owner of Gaslight, tells me there’ll be a sneak preview of “Bedlam” this evening at 7 p.m., designed as a fundraiser for a local charity. For tonight’s show only, she said, all tickets sold will be donated to the Henrietta Weill Child Guidance Clinic.

Because it’s a benefit, prices for the preview are slightly higher — $25 for adults and $15 for children.

‘Bedlam’ at the Gaslight In a comedic salute to the coming baseball season, the Gaslight Melodrama has come up with a spoof about the Bakersfield Blaze.

The show is an adaptation of a script written by Ken Parks, owner of All-American Melodrama in Long Beach, although a few changes have been made to give it more local color.

“Originally the show was just titled ‘Bedlam at the Ball Park,’” said Michael Prince, Gaslight’s artistic director. “But we added Sam Lynn in there because they are celebrating their 70th anniversary and we wanted to give a shout-out to a local historical landmark.”

Gaslight has collaborated with the Long Beach playhouse a number of times and Prince said it’s a good working relationship. In addition to trading scripts — Parks and his company recently produced Prince’s “Milligan’s

The Empty observes V-Day In its annual recognition of VDay, a world-wide effort to end violence against women and children, The Empty Space will present three performances of “The

When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Gaslight Melodrama & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive Admission: $23; $21, seniors; $12, children 12 and under Information: 587-3377

‘The Diamonds’ When: 7:30 p.m. today Where: Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $45 (includes three remaining concerts) Information: 589-2478

‘The Vagina Monologues’ When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

Information: 327-PLAY

Vagina Monologues,” two this weekend and one on March 26.

The show, written by Eve Ensler, consists of women speaking about particular incidents of violence — rape, battery, incest, female genital mutilation and sex slavery — that have occurred and are still occurring in all parts of the world..

Directors are Alison Martin and Michelle Guerrero Tolley. Proceeds will be donated to the Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault, a local nonprofit organization.

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25

Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Hip to be square (dancers) Annual Bakersfield Fiesta set for this weekend

BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

I

PHOTO COURTESY OF MILFRED AHLEMEYER

“It was something to do with our American friends there. So we started dancing and when we were transferred to Bakersfield we continued the activity here. It was just a great way to meet people locally.”

Ahlemeyer said a renewed interest in all things dance in mainstream culture has brought square dancing to a new generation.

“In January, the Joaquin Squares started a dance class, and we have

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When: 1:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday Where: Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. Admission: Free for spectators (just leave name and contact number with the registration desk) Information: bakersfieldfiesta.com or 324-1390

great participation because of all of the TV support. Whether it’s ‘Dancing with the Stars’ or ‘You Think You Can Dance,’ people have seen it and thought, ‘Hey, this could be fun.’”

Like any established tradition finding new ground, square dance has evolved as well, particularly when it comes to dress. Many associate participants with the frilly dresses, full skirts and petticoats, but Ahlemeyer said times have changed.

“Casual attire is much more prevalent in today’s society and in order to keep up we have had to adapt. A long skirt without the petticoat is good and, during the day, jeans are just fine. It’s really up to the person now. In the evening for the formal dances, we do ask that people to come in square dance attire but, still, the full petticoat that is so symbolic is not mandatory anymore.”

What also isn’t mandatory is the all western playlist: “The last time we had a dance we danced to ‘Soul Sister’ by Train. It doesn’t all have to be country.

If it’s Top 40 and has a good beat, we can make it into a square dance.”

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45th annual Bakersfield Fiesta

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Square dancers will cut a rug at the Bakersfield Fiesta this weekend.

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t’s a classic form of down-home entertainment that has spread through the international community. Now, more than 1,000 dancers from across the globe will travel to Kern County this weekend for the 45th annual Bakersfield Fiesta.

“Before radio and TV, this is what people would do for entertainment.

You’d go down to a dance hall and someone would get a fiddle and you’d have a dance,” said Marilyn Ahlemeyer, secretary of the 45th annual Bakersfield Fiesta and coordinator of the activities for the event.

A decades-long member of Kern County’s square dance community, Ahlemeyer will be joining members of Kern County’s square dance clubs.

The three-day event will bring together dancers from local clubs like the Lake Isabella Dam Dancers, Tehachapi Gandy Dancers and the Mountain Squares of Frazier Park all from the outlying areas of Kern County. From Bakersfield, dancers from Skirts and Flirts, Joaquin Squares and the Whirlaways will also be on hand.

With callers from as far away as Sweden, the event will features dances of every skill level, including round dancing, a form of square dance that incorporates aspects of ballroom dance.

Traditional square dancing finds its roots in New England and Appalachia, where participants brought influences from European dance styles dating back hundreds of years.

While the feel and sound is truly American, Ahlemeyer said she and her husband were first exposed to the style while he was working overseas in Germany.

February 25 - March 19 bmtstars.com or 325-6100 for tickets

26

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 17, 2011

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Coming to a stage near you Papa Roach, king of mariachi return

A

s you sit consuming a heaping plate of corned beef and cabbage with some frosty green beer, there’s nothing like some cool event news to complete your day.

Let’s start with this weekend, when tickets will go on sale for the pride of Vacaville, Papa Roach, which will perform at Stramler Park on May 6.

I saw Papa Roach for the first time at the old Rockin’ Rodeo and before they were snatched up by the majors. Next thing you know, they were all over MTV and headlining the VANS Warped Tour in 2000 with their hit song “Last Resort.” I can also still remember when former drummer Dave Buckner was dating, then married and divorced Steven Tyler’s daughter — not Liv, the other one — and were featured on MTV’s “Cribs.” I also recall when singer Coby Dick was voted one of “Rock’s Ugliest Men” on VH1. Not very flattering, especially when you consider you’re in the company of Lemmy from Motorhead and Shane McGowan of The Pogues. If you notice, Coby and the rest of Papa Roach have gone from looking like skater dudes to rock gods with cool hair, sleeve tats and lots of black — big-time makeover in the name of all things rock. I couldn’t tell you what their latest hit is, but I’m sure you can hear it on KRAB. Tickets for the May 6 all-ages concert are $25 and go on sale Saturday at 10 a.m. at World Records, Wavelengths,

WWW.PAPA-ROACH.COM

Papa Roach will perform at Stramler Park on May 6.

Bakotopia Unplugged Open Mic Night With host Matt Munoz When: 8 to 11 p.m.

Wednesdays. Signups start at 7:30 p.m.

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

Outer Limits, Going Underground, Hoggz and online at tgptix.com. More information available at timgardeapresents.com.

The king of mariachi returns From Vacaville to a primo vaquero, mariachi legend Vicente Fernandez will be riding back to Rabobank on May 8.

If you’ve been following some of the concert offerings at Rabobank over the past few years, you may have noticed that some of the returning acts are among the biggest from Mexico, namely Norteno music legends Los Tigres del Norte, and Fernandez.

Rabobank Senior Marketing

Manager Ken Ouellette, who’s witnessed the mariachi mania that erupts when Fernandez hits the stage, had this to say about his popularity: “Vicente has been here twice before. He may be the highestattended Hispanic performer, but overall ‘Disney on Ice’ would take the cake with that honor. Vicente always does very well here and is always welcomed with open arms by our community.”

I haven’t had the pleasure of seeing Fernandez in concert, but I can tell you this: Fernandez’s music stirs up more emotion in his fans than Charlie Sheen has catchphrases. The women scream, the men cry, and there’s a flood of tequila during his shows.

He’s one of Mexico’s national treasures and has been mariachi music’s biggest ambassador for over 40 years. Catch him before he tips that big sombrero for the last time.

Tickets for the May 8 show run $48 to $169, plus service fees. For more information, visit ticketmaster.com or call the Rabobank box office at 852-7777.

See you tonight at Fishlips for the big Bakotopia “Shamrock

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.

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Vicente Fernandez sings at Rabobank Arena in 2009.

Shindig,” beginning at 6 p.m. with 1916; Mento Buru; Joel Jacob and his band; Kenny Reeves; DJ Frankie P; and the unveiling of this year’s St. Patty’s party piñata.

Tickets are $10. For more information call Fishlips at 324-2557.

Please be good humans and have a designated driver ready at all times.

Matt’s picks Haleamano, Dub Seeds, & Natural Incense at Fishlips 1517 18th St., 9 p.m. Saturday, $10, 324-2557.

Las Vegas-based “Jawaiian” rhythm makers Haleamano are an imposing-looking group of fellas, but once they hit the stage, their easygoing island vibe fills the room. Lead singer “PochoMon Ryan” was born on the island of Oahu and boasts a bloodline of pioneering musicians from the area. Combining the upbeat beauty of traditional Hawaiian music with some Jamaican onedrop reggae, they’re one of Las Vegas’ most popular draws. Open-

ers Dub Seeds and Natural Incense equal a killer triple bill to help you dance into the weekend.

Yes, ukuleles will be aplenty.

Hectic Films Cinema House at The Intimate Theatre & Music Hall, 2030 19th St., 6 and 8:30 p.m. Saturday, $5, 323-1976.

The last time I visited with the guerrilla filmmakers at Hectic, they were preparing for the debut of their 4-D “zombierama” movie experience. They’ve already tested their animatronics, sound, and light assault on a few audiences over the past month, but now all systems are “gore.”

Presenting 1984 B-movie horror turkey “The Mutant,” moviegoers will be treated to some studioquality special effects, an intermission with zombie actors dancing in the audience, plus special zombie art prints and related paraphernalia on sale for the brave. Leave the wee one’s at home, unless you wanna traumatize junior. Visit hecticfilms.com for more info.

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Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street • Sleeplessness • Phobias & Fears

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A boy gets a lesson in gold panning during the annual Rock and Gem Show.

Mon-Fri, 11-2 HOURS Lunch: Dinner: Mon-Thurs, 5-10;

Roll on over to rock show Gems, minerals, fossils among the attractions

BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

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here’s gold in them thar hills, but if you’re talking about Kern County, there’s plenty more than

that.

That’s the lesson Lew Helfrich is trying to teach people when it comes to local rocks and minerals. Helfrich is the founder of the San Joaquin Lapidary Society and organizer of the 10th annual Rock and Gem Show taking place this weekend at the Kern County Shriners Club.

The two-day event will showcase the rocks and gems of Kern County along with fossils and minerals from around the world. Vendors selling jewelry, carvings, tools and more will be on hand — some from as far away as Pakistan and Australia. Educators will be in attendance as well with workshops and activities for young and old.

“We will have a guy there showing people how to make arrowheads out of obsidian, and we will have setups for kids to learn how to pan for gold and mine for rocks,” Helfrich said.

“There will also be a man there with educational lectures on meteorites.”

10th annual Rock and Gem Show When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Where: Shriners Club, 700 P St. Admission/parking: Free Information: 323-2663

Helfrich is opening up the event to all with free admission in hopes he can encourage an interest in rocks and gems in a new generation.

“If you look at all of the lapidary societies that are around, it’s all old people and someday those old people aren’t going to be there. There is no one to take over and there is so much to learn. Kern County is such a diverse place as far as minerals and gemstones. We need kids to continue where we will leave off.”

Helfrich’s interest in rocks and gemstones began more than 20 years ago when he and his wife moved back to Bakersfield from South Dakota. Helfrich said after working between Bakersfield and LAX he decided to take some classes at Bakersfield College in order to stay closer to home.

“I took some classes in silversmithing and joined the Kern County Mineral Society, then eventually went

on to form the San Joaquin Lapidary Society.”

Helfrich has been interested in lapidary — cutting and polishing gemstones other than diamonds — for more than 20 years and takes classes out into the surrounding countryside to search for rocks and enjoy the great outdoors.

“I’ll take people out a couple of times a year for rock excursions out to Boron or near Kramer Junction,” he said. “We look for things like petrified wood, chalcedony and opalite. We also look at tortoises, scorpions and tarantulas. I call it discovering the desert.”

Along with free admission and parking, the rock and gem show will also offer hourly giveaways with a grand prize raffle at the end of the event, which will include gift cards for gas and retailers as well as cash.

The Shriners will be handling all of the concessions from the event, with proceeds from their food sales benefiting their organization.

“It’s all going to the kids, and that’s how I want it to be,” Helfrich said.

“There is going to be so much stuff out here for the family it’s going to be a great time. Sometimes it can be hard to organize something where people just really enjoy themselves. And, that’s what we want to have happen.”

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 17, 2011

Eye Street

Organ recitals free, open to all Sessions to continue through season of Lent

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

I

t’s pretty common for a person to come into contact with some sort of musical instrument, especially a piano, guitar or a brass instrument. But most people have never seen a pipe organ, let alone heard one played.

Members of the local chapter of the American Guild of Organists keep trying to change that for at least a few people with their annual Organ Recital Series at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, beginning today and continuing through the season of Lent.

“We want to showcase the instrument, because we want people to like it,” said Sue Wagner, an organizer of the series and organist at St. Paul’s.

“For over 1,200 years, the organ has been the main instrument in church music,” Wagner said.

Wagner said the organ’s popularity has waned because society has changed.

“A lot of people don’t go to church, or they don’t go to a church that has (an organ),” Wagner said.

It’s also not an instrument that people usually have in their homes. Even a small pipe organ is enormous, containing hundreds of pipes. A full-sized instrument that one might find in a church can cost hundreds of thousands, even millions of dollars to buy, install and maintain. Lack of access to an instrument provides an often insurmountable challenge to learning to play an organ, along with the extraordinary skills

Lenten organ recitals When: 12:15 to 12:45 p.m., starting today and continuing through April 14 Where: St. Paul’s Anglican Parish, 2216 17th St. Admission: Free; bring your own lunch or purchase one.

Information: 861-6020

required to operate multiple keyboards, foot pedals and the different settings, called stops, for the pipes on the organ.

The repertoire for the organ, however, comprises some of the most important music in the Western European repertoire, from the early Renaissance through the modern era, in both sacred and secular genres. The American Guild of Organists exists in part to promote the organ and the organ repertoire, trying to keep interest in the instrument alive.

Wagner said the Lenten Organ Recital Series has been running for 32 years, with one break in 1996 when the church was installing a new organ.

“We started this because our pastor, Father John Spear, who was new at the time, thought it would be a good idea,” Wagner said.

Wagner said that although the series has always taken place during Lent, the Christian period of preparation for Easter, the series has no religious connotation.

“It’s a season, so it’s a good time to do it,” Wagner said, adding that many churches hold a similar program during Advent, the time of preparation before Christmas.

Many concerts and musical events are

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scheduled during those seasons. Wagner said such concert series such these have long been a tradition in many major cities.

“Trinity Church, Wall Street would do this and the stockbrokers would come in at lunch time and eat their lunch and listen, so (Father Spear) thought we should do that here,” Wagner said.

Organist Jim Page opens the series today.

Wagner said Page will be featuring music from the French Romantic composers, including the Toccata from the Symphony for Organ No. 5 by Charles-Marie Widor.

Wagner will perform with several local

bakersfield

inside guide.com

musicians on March 24. That program will include works by Sigfrid Karg-Elert, Felix Mendelssohn, Louis Vierne, Robert J. Powell and Michael Bedford, and will include music for vocalists and brass instruments.

Other performers in the series include organists Meg Wise, Alan K. Rogers and Philip and Jean Dodson.

Wagner said the concerts start at 12:15 and last about 30 minutes, allowing people to come in a lunch. Wagner said people may bring lunch and eat during the concert. Lunch is also available for purchase from the church. The concerts are free.

Kern County Scottish Society presents 16th Annual

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HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Jim Page plays at the 2003 Lenten Organ Recital Series at St. Paul’s Anglican Parish Church.

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Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Do you look good in green?

Agency seeks next ‘Eco-Girl’

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or women who want to make a difference — and look good doing it — Project Greenbees is looking for you.

Eco-friendly company Greenbees, in conjunction with Optimal Wellness Center, will host a model casting Sunday looking for the next “Eco-Girl.”

So what does it take to be the next face and voice of the company known for its stylish and environmentally friendly footwear? Organizers say they’re seeking a “woman who wants to take a stand and wants to get noticed.”

The search will focus on models between the ages of 16 to 24. Local photographer Misty Dameron will take snapshots, and each participant is required to submit a short synopsis on what they are doing to be globally and environmentally responsible.

Application information is available on projectgreenbee.blogspot.com.

“We really want to generate eco-awareness within our own community,” said Irene Clancy, who founded Greenbees with fellow Bakersfield resident Janel Garcia in 2009. “We feel that it is time the next generation was informed on how easy it is to do good and take part, even if it is a small part.”

“It’s easy to make a difference and feel good about what you are doing instead of focusing and feeling guilty about what you’re not doing, said Garcia. “So, with that

Project Greenbees When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday Where: DoubleTree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court Cost: $10, includes head shot and gift bag. Proceeds will benefit Trees for the Future.

Information: 340-6731 or projectgreenbee.blogspot.com

being said, we want to honor those that are taking strides to do good.”

Ten finalists will be selected by a panel of judges, including Garcia and Clancy, Los Angeles Fashion Weekend producer Mikey Koffman and local talent agency owner Ann McCright. The finalists will be interviewed by the judges, filmed to gauge their speaking abilities and personality and take part in a photo test shoot to gauge their capacity for print work and general ability to serve as the Greenbees Eco-Girl.

The winner receives a prize package that includes a make-over and eco-fashion shoe wardrobe, professional photography session, being featured on the Greenbees website, coverage in Boho Magazine and online publication Coco Eco Magazine, as well as other gifts donated by local businesses.

— Greenbees news release

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30

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 17, 2011

Eye Street

Preschool presents fun day for families THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

L

ittle Ones Preschool, housed in the First Presbyterian complex in downtown Bakersfield, will host Family Fun Day on Saturday.

There will be games, a bounce house, safety demonstrations and information provided by Bakersfield fire and police departments, Hall Ambulance and the Komin Medical Group.

“We wanted to create a family fun day for the family to do together, whether they have an elementary school student or not,” said Marci Fleischer, preschool director of Little Ones Preschool.

The preschool, which is open only during the school year, is a month-to-month program that includes a morning snack for the children and activities throughout the day.

Children are asked to bring their own healthy lunch while enrolled in the preschool. Fleischer will be on hand to answer any questions regarding enrollment and tours of the preschool will be available.

Among local vendors with booths will be Hoggz Surf and Skate Shop, which will present a skate team performing demonstrations, and a local dentist will show

Family Fun Day When: 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday Where: Little Ones Preschool at First Presbyterian Church, 1705 17th St. Admission: $5 per person; $20 per family max.

Information: 431-1980 or littleonesprek.com

children the correct way to brush their teeth. Food will be available for purchase, including Rusty’s pizza, Frito-boats, beverages, kettle corn, shaved ice and more.

An opportunity drawing will take place with gift baskets filled with kids’ activities/supplies, donated teen books, coffee mugs, gift cards and more. Tickets are $1 per ticket or six tickets for $5.

Most events will be in the west parking lot of the gymnasium, at F and 17th Streets. Other activities will take place in the preschool playground area.

The fun is from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the school, 1705 17th St. Admission is $5; $20 maximum per family. But for those who cannot afford the entire entry fee, donations may be made in lieu of entry fees.

31

Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street GO & DO Today Darryl Worley, 7 p.m., Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $27.50-$35.50. vallitix.com or call 322-5200.

“The Diamonds,” presented by Bakersfield Community Concert Association, 7:30 p.m., the theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $45 for three remaining concerts. bakersfieldcca.org or 2058522 or 589-2478.

Tsunami Relief Fundraiser Concert, doors open at 6:30 p.m., begins at 7 p.m., Dove Creek Bible Church, 5131 Office Park Drive. $10.

Friday 2011 Bakersfield March Meet, drag-racing festival with exhibits and a vintage auto parts swap meet, gates open at 7 a.m., racing begins at 8 a.m. Friday through Sunday, Famoso Raceway, 33559 Famoso Road, McFarland. $25 Friday; $30 Saturday and Sunday per day; $75 weekend pass; $10 kids 7-12 per day. famosoraceway.com or 399-5351 or 399-2210.

45th annual Bakersfield Fiesta, sponsored by The United Square Dancers Association, with mainstream, plus, advanced, challenge and round dancing, Friday through Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. bakersfieldfiesta.com or call 324-1390.

Condors vs. Ontario, 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Tickets: Rabobank box office, bakersfieldcondors.com or 324-7825.

FLICS International Cinema Society, presents “A Prophet,” 7:30 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $5. flics.org or call 428-0354.

Wine Bar Flight, the best of 2007 Pinot Noir, Calera Ryan Vineyard, Siduri Amber Ridge, Littorai Les Larmes and more, 4 p.m., Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. Wine tastes vary by wine. 633-WINE.

Saturday 10th annual Rock & Gem Rendezvous, indoor and outdoor show, with a silent auction, demonstrations, prizes, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, Kern County Shriners Club, 700 S. P St. Free admission and

TODAY’S ST. PATRICK DAY EVENTS 2011 St. Patty’s Shamrock Shindig!, featuring Mento Buru, 1916, DJ Frankie P, Joel Jacob, Kenny Reeves, 6 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $10; 21 & over. 3242557.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, stories, songs, crafts, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Beale Memorial Library, Arkelian Children’s Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 8680770.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Dick Noel will entertain, complimentary meal of corned beef and cabbage, non-alcoholic parking. To become a vendor or more information, 323-2663.

“A Lucky Night,” barbecue tri-tip dinner, reverse drawing, 6 p.m., Italian Heritage Hall, 4415 Wilson Road. $125 per couple. 8357669.

Bakersfield Green Thumb Garden Club, meeting with Larry Liggett, pest control specialist for Bolthouse Farms, 9 a.m., Church of the Brethren, in the social hall, 327 A St. 393-3657.

Bakersfield High School Friends of Fine Arts presents Bella Arti, light dinner, wine by Valentien Restaurant, silent auction, 7 to 9:30 p.m., Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $30. 327-5429.

Book signing, with author Brandy Scott of “Because I Am An American Girl” 1 to 3 p.m., Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. 665-4686.

Boys & Girls Club Dodgeball Tournament, registration 8:30 a.m., tournament at 9 a.m., Boys & Girls Club, Youth Armstrong Center, 801 Niles St. $200 per team of six.

325-3730.

Casino Night, presented by Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce; door prizes, dinner, 5 to 10 p.m., Kern River Valley Senior Center, 6409 Lake Isabella Blvd., Lake Isabella. $25. 760-3795236.

Family Fun Day, with games, bounce house, safety demonstrations and information, 3 to 6 p.m., Little Ones Preschool at First Presbyterian Church, 1705 17th St. $5 per person; $20 family. 431-1980.

Haleamando, with Dub Seeds and N.I., 9 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $8 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Hoops Xtreme 2011, 3-on3 basketball tournament, 8

green beer, 12:30 p.m., Carriage House Estates, 8200 Westwold Drive. Free.

663-8393.

St. Patrick’s Day Party, with No DUH (No Doubt Tribute Band), doors open at 6 p.m., B. Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane. $7. 397-7304.

Tickets at tgptix.com or World Records, Wavelengths, Impact Streetwear, Outer Limits or Hoggz Surfshop.

St. Patrick’s Day Party, special drink specials, drawing for pot of gold, 10 a.m., Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane. 325-2139. a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, East Hills Mall parking lot, 3000 Mall View Road. Registration forms available at any Carl’s Jr. or Jesus Shack. 324-0638 or jesusshack.com.

Intermediate Guitar Lesson, learn more guitar chords, stunning techniques, finger-picking patterns and how to find songs online, 1 to 3 p.m., Beale Memorial Library, Tejon Room, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. 868-0770.

Kern Audubon Society, field trip to Tehachapi/Brite Lake with bird expert Richard Sparks, 7:30 a.m., Jack-in-the-Box, 10 Union Ave. Bring binoculars, water and snack/lunch. Website kernaudubonsociety.org or 832-1820.

Kern River Valley Hiking Club, trip to Coso Pictoglyph, leave at 6:30 a.m., from Starbucks Coffee, East: Junction of highways 58 & 184 (Weedpatch Highway). Bring lunch and 2 quarts of water. Dress appropriately. For directions, visit lakeisabella.net/hiking or 778-3453.

Kids Discover Music, classically trained musician performs, reads a story and lets the kids learn up close and personally about the music and the instrument, 11 a.m. to noon, Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. 665-4686.

Sixth annual Sporting Clay Fundraiser, hosted by Beardsley School Community Foundation, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Five Dogs Shooting Range, 20238 Woody Road. $85, includes lunch. 392-1417.

Storytime: “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” by Eric Carle, 11 a.m., Barnes & Noble, 4001 California Ave. 631-2575.

Volunteer Orientation, 10 to 11 a.m., Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0784.

Sunday Italian Catholic Federation’s Pancake Breakfast, Branch 281, will serve pancakes with eggs, sausage and beverages, 8:30 to 11 a.m., Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Parish Hall, 124 Columbus St. $5; $3 under 12; Tri-tip sandwiches $5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

872-0511.

Project Greenbees: Casting for the next EcoGirl, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., DoubleTree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. $10 includes head shot and gift bag. 340-6731.

Framing Clinic, with Toni Lott, for artists who want to frame their work, began April 7, running noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays. 2053488.

Free art classes, for homeschool children, 11 a.m.

Thursdays, Moore’s Art School, 837-1037.

Native American Arts Association, meets to learn

basketry, beadwork and more, 9 a.m. to noon each Thursday, The Stockdale Moose Lodge, 905 Stine Road. 852-5050.

Preschool Hour, with music, stories, art with Jeannie Truitt, 10 to 11 a.m.

Thursday, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320.

ART “California Perspectives 2011,” exhibit on display now through April 2, Younger Gallery (located in the Bank of America tower), 1430 Truxtun Ave., Suite 105. 324-9000.

Art show, about literacy, “Contextual,” now through April 30, Padre Hotel, 1702 18th St. 427-4900.

“The Joy of Painting” Class Exhibit, featuring student artwork on display, 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, The Foundry, 1700 Chester Ave. Free. 301-3283.

“A Time to Paint,” 9:30 a.m. to noon; and “Creative Clay,” 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, both part of the Art for Healing program, Mercy Art & Spirituality Center, 2215 Truxtun Ave. Free. 3247070.

All Media Class, by instructor Phyllis Oliver, all media welcome, with color theory stressed. 348-4717 or pegolivert@ ix.netcom.com.

Art classes, beginning watercolor, beginning drawing, advanced drawing and watercolor painters’ group, taught by Carol Bradshaw. bradshawartist@earthlink.n et or 760-376-6604.

Art Classes, stained glass, clay sculpture, oil painting, youth art and silver jewelry, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. For times and dates, call 3277507.

Basic Beading & Wire Wrapping Workshop, with Susi Klassen, private instruction or by appointment, The Bead Hut, 610 18th St. 324-0975 or 706-6490.

Beginning Oil Painting, with instructor Glen Jelletich, classes held 1 to 3 p.m. Mondays. 399-3707.

Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced Drawing, by instructor Nina Landgraff, series of five two-hour classes. 304-7002.

www.bakersfieldrvresort.com 5025 Wible Road Bakersfield, CA 93313

661-833-9998

We couldn’t do this without you!

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 17, 2011

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

The Art Center, 1817 Eye St., 8692320; offers a variety of painting and drawing classes. Call for details.

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.

GO & DO

THEATER “Bedlam at Sam Lynn Ball Park,” sneak peek preview, 7 p.m. today, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $25 adults; $15 children. All proceeds benefit The Henrietta Weill Child Guidance Clinic. 322-1021.

“Pageant,” doors open at 6 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $50 to $55; show-only tickets $35. 325-6100.

“The Night Time Show with Michael Armendariz,” variety show with guests Guinevere PH Dethlefson, Mark Price and The Architecture, 11 p.m. Friday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $5. 3277529.

“The Phantom of the Opera,” doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Frontier High School, Performing Arts Center, 6401 Allen Road. $10 adults; $8 students. 829-1107 ext. 68218.

“The Vagina Monologues,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $20 advance; $25 at the door. 327PLAY. 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. Omnipresent Puppet Theatre, presents “The Fisherman’s Wife,” 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $6. 587-3377.

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

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

Classic rock McMurphy’s Irish Pub & Sports Bar, 14 Monterey St., 869-1451; No Limit, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday.

Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Billy Russell Band, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOT SCHATZ PUBLIC RELATIONS IN NASHVILLE

Darryl Worley, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $27.50$35.50. vallitix.com or call 322-5200.

Saturday.

Comedy 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 on Friday and Saturdays, children under 12 are $1 every day. ciacomedy.com.

Country Trouts & the Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 399-6700, offers karaoke, line dancing, West Coast Swing among other various activities. Call for times and days.

Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 3287560; Monty Byrom & the Buckaroos, 7:30 p.m. Friday; The Monty Byrom Band, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday. $5.

Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Wild Blue Rose, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday; Arvizu Brothers, 3 to 7 p.m.

Saturday; Still Kickin’, 3 to 7 p.m.

Sunday.

“Post 26” American Legion Hall, 2020 H St., 324-9435; live country music and dancing with Bobby Durham, doors open at 6:30 p.m., from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. every Saturday. $10 includes one drink. $1 menu snack food available.

Tejon Club, 117 El Tejon Ave., 3921747; Crossroads, 6 to 10 p.m.

Sunday.

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

Wednesday.

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

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.

Pairs and Spares Dance, 7:30 p.m. each Friday, Rasmussen Senior Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5; $7 nonmembers. 399-3575 or 332-1537.

Country Dance, with music provided Jerri Arnold & Stars & Guitars, jam session, all artists welcome, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane.

Dance classes, beginning West Coast swing, intermediate/ advanced West Coast swing with instructor Mimi Johanson, at 8214 Mossrock Drive. Call 927-7001 for details.

Whirlaways Square Dance Club, has workshops/classes every first, third, fourth and fifth Mondays, Park Stockdale Civic Association Community Center, 205 Rio Bravo Drive. whirlaways.org or 398-3394.

African Dance for Fitness, taught by national touring artists, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 1 to 2 p.m. Saturdays, Su Studio Dance Academy, 1515 21st St. $5$7 per class. africandanceclasses. com or 760-917-3685.

Dance Drill Classes, beginning belly dancing, 8 p.m. every Tuesday; advanced belly dancing, 7 to 9 p.m. every Thursday, Centre Stage Studio, 1710 Chester Ave. $5 drop-in fee for beginning belly dancing; $15 for advanced belly dancing. Bring knee pads and yoga mat to advanced class. 323-5215.

DJ B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; DJ “SK,” 8:30 p.m. Thursday.

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

B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; DJ Michael Anthony, DJ Chewy, DJ Jimmy K, 8 p.m. Friday. $5.

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

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

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Wax On, 9 p.m. Friday.

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

Fight night and live music B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; UFC128 fight at 7 p.m., Saturday. $10 for fight, includes dinner.

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

Padre Hotel, Prospect Room, 1702 18th St., 427-4900; Sangria Sundays, 6 p.m. Sunday.

Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave., 633-WINE; live music & wine bar with featuring Jazz Connection, along with 24 wines, 6 to 8:30

GO & DO

LARRY CROWE / AP

Italian Catholic Federation’s Pancake Breakfast, Branch 281, will serve pancakes with eggs, sausage and beverages, 8:30 to 11 a.m., Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Parish Hall, 124 Columbus St. $5; $3 under 12; tri-tip sandwiches $5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 872-0511. p.m. Tuesdays.

Intimate Theatre & Music Hall, 2030 19th St., 323-1976; Ron Christian and his Big Band, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays.

Padre Hotel, Roof Top Venue, 1702 18th St., 427-4900; Jazz & Martinis, 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday.

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

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 Pizza, 4200 New Stine Road, 397-5000; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Thursday.

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

Pour House, 4041 Fruitvale Ave., 589-9300; 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

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

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

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

Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 1440 Weedpatch Highway, 633-1949; Karaoke King Show, all ages, 7 to 10 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays.

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

Maria Bonita Mexican Restaurant, 10701 Highway 178, 366-3261, 7 to 11 p.m. Fridays. All ages.

The Pourhouse, 4041 Fruitvale Ave., 589-9300; 9 p.m. every Friday.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Camino Real Restaurant, 3500 Truxtun Ave., 852-0493; 9:30 p.m.

Sundays.

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

Sundays.

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

Mondays through Wednesdays.

Schweitzer’s Pit Stop, 10807 Rosedale Highway, 587-8888; 8 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays.

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

Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

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

Tuesday.

Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 3287560; 7:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 6111 Niles St., 363-7200; 6:15 to 10:15 p.m.

Tuesdays.

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

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

Lone Oak Inn, 10612 Rosedale Highway, 589-0412; 8 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursday.

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

Tuesday.

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

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

Tuesday.

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

Tuesdays and Thursdays.

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.

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

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

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

Please see PAGE 33

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Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32

Latin/salsa

Saturday 3/26

GO & DO

Latin Salsa Dancing, 8 p.m.

Thursdays, DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 323-7111.

Camino Real Restaurant, 3500 Truxtun Ave., 852-0493; Son Tropical, 7 to 10 p.m. Fridays.

Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774: Salsa dancing, 7:30 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays.

Mariachi Camino Real Restaurant, 3500 Truxtun Ave., 852-0493; Mariachi Imperial, 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays.

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

Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Mario the Rockin’ Elvis, 8 to 11 p.m. Thursday.

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

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

Open mic Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 324-2557; Bakotopia Unplugged Open-Mic Night, 8 p.m., sign-up sheet begins at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

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

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Backup Johnny, 9 p.m. to midnight Thursday.

Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Elevation 406, 9 p.m.

Friday.

The Gate, 2010 O St., 323-4162; Forever I, A Day of Atonement, Long Live the King, Skyper Shay, A Darkened Prophecy, 7 p.m.

Sturday. $7.

Ska/reggae Goose Loonies, 816 18th St., 6311242; Mento Buru Quartet, 9 p.m.

Saturday.

Songwriters Maria Bonita Mexican Restaurant, 10701 Highway 178, 366-3261; 6:30 p.m. every Friday.

The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; Chuck Seaton and Billy Russell’s Songwriter’s Showcase, 7 p.m. Wednesdays.

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

Trivia night Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 7 p.m. Tuesdays.

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Bob Godfrey goes old school as he lifts the wheels of his Z/28 Camaro Funny Car during qualifying at the 2010 March Meet.

2011 Bakersfield March Meet, drag racing festival with manufacturer’s exhibits and a vintage auto parts swap meet, gates open at 7 a.m., racing begins at 8 a.m. Friday through Sunday, Famoso Raceway, 33559 Famoso Road, McFarland. $25 Friday; $30 Saturday and Sunday per day; $75 weekend pass; $10 kids 7-12 per day. famosoraceway.com or 399-5351 or 399-2210.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Trivia Night with Dave Rezac, 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

Variety Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., Dance to Joe Loco, 2 to 5 p.m.

Sundays.

UPCOMING EVENTS Monday 3/21 Senior Discovery Days, each Monday for seniors 60 and older receive 50 percent off admission, 10 percent discount in the gift store, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 872-2256.

Tip-A-Condor Charity Dinner & Auction, doors open at 5 p.m., beings at 6 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $25. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Wednesday 3/23 “Annie Jr.,” 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Wednesday and Thursday, Bakersfield City School District Auditorium, 1300 Baker St. 6314600.

Author Irene Kendig Discussion & Book Signing, of her book “Conversations with Jerry and Other People I Thought Were Dead” and discussing what happens when we die and what does it mean while we’re alive, 7 to 9 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 98 Sterling Road. 8329582.

Condors vs. Victoria, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Tickets: Rabobank box office, bakersfieldcondors.com or 3247825.

Thursday 3/24 Fifth annual Bunco Night, hosted by Canyon Hills women’s ministry, 5:30 to 8 p.m., Christine’s, 4915 Stockdale Highway. $25 and must be purchased in advance. Proceeds benefit Project Hope Canyon Hills women’s ministry. 871-1150.

Fundraising Dinner for Higher Education, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., The Patino Hall, 425 30th St. $35 per person if purchased by March 20; $350 for table of eight. 3404437 or 778-9159.

“Women’s History Month: Women, Politics and the Personal,” featuring “Feminist Politics and the Market in Human Eggs” with Patricia Jennings, 6:30 p.m., Bakersfield College, Fireside Room, 1801 Panorama Drive. 3954350.

Friday 3/25 10th annual Golf Tournament, presented by Kern Association of Health Underwriters; registration and lunch, 11 a.m., shotgun at 12:30 p.m., Sundale Country Club, 6218 Sundale Ave. $125 per person; $500 per team. Proceeds benefits Kern County Burn Survivors Trust Fund. 888-8052567.

Condors vs. Las Vegas, 7 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Tickets: Rabobank box office, bakersfieldcondors.com or 3247825.

Parents’ Night Out, open to children 5 to 17, with a movie, activities and dinner, 6 to 10 p.m., Stockdale Boys & Girls Club, 5207 Young Street, Suite 200. $15 per child. 663-8733.

Sporting Clay Shoot, sponsored by the Association of Petroleum Wives, check-in 7:30 a.m., begins at 9 a.m., Kern County Gun Club, 12450 Shotgun Road. $90 per person. 616-8730.

“The Measure of a Man” Film Premiere, 7 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m.

Saturday, Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $12 Friday; $8 Saturday. vallitix.com or 3225200.

War, Los Lobos, Mento Buru, doors open at 7 p.m., 8 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $30 to $45 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000.

Annual Rose & Plant Sale, hosted by the Kern County Rose Society, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hall Letter Shop, 5200 Rosedale Highway. 393-6861.

Beginning Guitar Lesson, bring your own, learn to play songs, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Beale Memorial Library, Tejon Room, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. 868-0770.

Bunco Night: “Roll’n For Heart Screenings,” 6 to 9 p.m., Cactus Valley Mexican Restaurant, 4215 Rosedale Highway. $25. 3015846.

Charity Rummage Sale, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Independent Living Center, 1631 30th St. All proceeds benefit Independent Living Center.

325-1063.

“College: Making it Happen!

Building Your Future Brick by Brick,” an academic and financial planning presentation, registration at 8 a.m., program from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., CSUB, Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway. To register, email nweathersppon@csub.edu or 654-6157.

David Gordon Plein Air Workshop, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Hart Park. $60 nonmembers; $50 members. Pre-register and payment needed ahead of time, 869-2320.

Derby Revolution of Bakersfield Tournament, 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, Saunders Park, 3300 Palm St. $10$25; under 5 free. 706-0984.

Design Reflections: Art & Mirrors Trunk Show, 10 a.m. to noon, Beladagio, 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 705. Free. 829-2288.

Eighth annual Bakersfield Spring Ring Concert, featuring seven handbell choirs, one handbell soloist and the Bosch pipe organ, 5 to 6 p.m., St. John’s Lutheran Church, 4500 Buena Vista Road. Free. 588-3254.

Great Strides Walk 2011, to help cure cystic fibrosis, check-in 9 to 10 a.m., begins at 10 a.m., the Park at River Walk, 11200 Stockdale Highway. cff.org or Jackie Smith, 323-939-0758.

Healthy Bakersfield Kids Expo, giant obstacle course, face painting, prize giveaways, exhibitors and more, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Free.

Kern County Kennel Club Back to Back All Breed Dog Shows, demonstrations by the Kern County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit, Kern County Firefighters Search & Rescue, and the Bakersfield Police Department K-9 Unit, gates open at 7:30 a.m., event from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $4 adults; $3 seniors; $2 children ages 10-16; free for children under 10. kerncountykennelclubinc.com or 397-7514 or 332-1905.

Kern Kaweah Chapter, Sierra Club annual Awards Banquet, speaker Bob Schildgen, 12:30 p.m.,

Benji’s, 4001 Rosedale Highway.

822-4371.

Kids Free Day, last Saturday of every month, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 872-2256.

Local History Lecture Series, “You Can Do It! Cesar Chavez and the Farm Worker’s Movement in Kern County,” presented by Oliver Rosales, 11 a.m., Beale Memorial Library, Tejon Room, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. 868-0770.

Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic, for Lamont dogs only, St. Augustine Church, 10601 Myrtle Ave., Lamont. Prepayment of $10 is required. Call Alpha Canine, 3918212.

Omnipresent Puppet Theatre, presents “The Fisherman’s Wife,” 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $6. 587-3377.

Shafter vs. Wasco Alumni Football Game, 7 p.m., Wasco High School, 1900 7th St., Wasco. $10, $5 seniors and students with ID. 758-7400.

Street Teams, opportunity to reach the hurting and needy parts of our community with food, love and prayer, 10:30 a.m., Jesus Shack, 1326 30th St. jesusshack.com or call 324-0638.

Tea Cup Floral Arrangement Class, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Log Cabin Florist, 800 19th St. $25. 327-8646.

V-Fair, vendors, info booths, live performances, art and more, 2 to 5:30 p.m., The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. 327-PLAY.

Sunday 3/27 Wildlife Rehabilitation Course, become a volunteer to care for CALM’s young and injured animals; 3 to 5 p.m., CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway.

Interested individuals also need to attend April 3 and 10. 872-2256, ext. 15.

Tuesday, 3/29 Bakersfield College welcomes CSI actors David Berman and Jon Wellner of “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” who will be discussing forensic science, how the forensic tests work, how that all relates to the development of the show and how it affects real life, question and answer session, noon to 1 p.m., Bakersfield College, Fireside Room, 1801 Panorama Drive. 3954298.

Wednesday, 3/30 Art in the Afternoon, 3:30 p.m., Beale Memorial Library, Arkelian Children's Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0770.

Thursday, 3/31 National Day of Service, volunteer to restore the center, 9 a.m., National Chavez Center, 29700 Woodford -Tehachapi Road, Keene. Free lunch. 8236271.

The Pink Floyd Experience, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $25 to $48 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000.