The Bakersfield Californian - 'Eye St.' Entertainment by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 26, 2010

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

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

“Mrl” by Eye Gallery 2010 artist Brian Demarest. The mixed media piece on illustration board measures 32 inches by 40 inches. The artwork, along with 14 other pieces featured in Eye Gallery, will go on display at the Bakersfield Museum of Art beginning Sept. 9.

What is Eye Gallery? Eye Gallery is The Californian’s annual celebration of local visual artists. Along with The Bakersfield Museum of Art, our partner, we asked 14 artists to interpret the theme “Close to Home.” We will publish their work, and short biographies of each, on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 9, when the museum will host a reception in their honor.

Two famous faces — Edie Sedgwick and Idi Amin — have inspired Brian Demarest’s piece called “E-DEE.”

EYE GALLERY SUNDAY: DAVID GORDON LOOKS IN HIS OWN BACKYARD FOR INSPIRATION EYE GALLERY THURSDAY: ALISON BEITZELL DIVES IN

Thursday, August 26, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Gallery

Behind every great woman is ... the artist who painted her likeness — in this case, Brian Demarest.

Art builds transplanted resident’s local roots BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

is career brought him to Bakersfield, but his art — and a great circle of friends — are keeping Brian Demarest in town. Those friends have come in handy in the last year or so, both in helping the New Jersey native get the word out about his art (I met him through my cousin Rose) and as sources of encouragement and support as he looks for work after losing his job in the Big West refinery shutdown. “So far the job market has been pretty bleak — that includes the entire state of California, not just Bakersfield,” Demarest said via e-mail. But while he continues to blanket any and all potential employers with his resume, he decided to return to his art in earnest and recently had his first local show at The Basement gallery in downtown Bakersfield (“They’re doing a really good job of showing new artists as well as ‘street artists’ and work with an edge to it”). Much of Demarest’s work offers his unique interpretation of the famous and infamous, whose images he projects onto illustration board as the starting point of his process. One interesting piece, titled “E-DEE,” features his perspective on two folks who probably shared nothing but a similarly

pronounced first name: ’60s actress Edie Sedgwick and Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. Another of his pieces is a likeness of swinging London It Girl Twiggy. So it’s no wonder that a guy drawn to putting his stamp on celebrity culture would choose Merle Haggard — perhaps Bakersfield’s most famous face — as the subject of his Eye Gallery piece. “When I was researching Bakersfield before I came out here, one of the first things that came up was Merle Haggard and the Bakersfield Sound,” Demarest said. “I’ve never been a huge country music fan, but I’ve always had respect for older country music ... late ’50s through the early ’70s. It has a kind of unapologetic dark and gritty feel to it. So I did a portrait of Merle because he is such a huge staple of Bakersfield.” More of our e-mail chat with Demarest, 36: You’re from New Jersey. Did you know much about Merle Haggard before you moved here? Do you listen to his music? I remember when I was a freshman in high school, my father was very excited to show me a Merle Haggard tape he got at the now defunct Crazy Eddie appliance store. He really wanted me to hear “Okie from Muskogee.” That was my first glimpse

of Merle Haggard. What do people not know, but should know, about art: Art doesn’t always have to look like something you’re familiar with... How can you tell a great artist from a hack? I learned the stand-up comedian version of “hack” to mean someone who makes the same old tired joke about the same old common thing you’ve heard again and again. You’re new to Bakersfield’s art scene. What do you think so far? I would like for more people to get involved (artists and spectators). If there can be a Bakersfield “Sound” then there can be a Bakersfield “look” as well. Bakersfield is in a very good spot right now to have a really flourishing creative scene — compare it to New York in the early ’70s, where out of a struggling economy and a lack of venues, a brilliant music and art scene exploded. Is art talent inherent or can you learn to be a great artist? I think you can learn to be a “good” artist, but I think “greatness” is inherent. Favorite artists: John Singer Sargent, Austin Briggs, Jean Michel Basquiat, Chuck Jones.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 26, 2010

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BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH

THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE B 11:40, 2:10, 4:40, 7:10, 9:40

Contributing writer

PREDATORS E 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 10:00 THE LAST AIRBENDER B 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20, 9:50 THE TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE C 1:00, 3:50, 7:15, 10:05 TOY STORY 3 A 11:30, 12:30, 2:00, 3:00, 4:30, 5:30, 7:00, 8:00, 9:30, 10:15 THE A-TEAM C 3:15, 9:00 THE KARATE KID B 12:45, 4:00, 7:00, 10:05 SHREK FOREVER AFTER B 12:10, 2:40, 5:10, 7:25, 9:45 IRON MAN 2 C 12:20, 6:00 Showtimes for August 27-September 2

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PIRANHA 3D

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SWITCH (1:00PM, 3:15, 5:35), 7:55, 10:10

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THE OTHER GUYS (PG-13)

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INCEPTION (PG-13) (3:55PM), 7:00, 10:05

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Local films add to downtown arts scene

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RAMONA AND BEEZUS A 11:30, 1:50, 4:20, 6:50, 9:20

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Eye Street

I Pass/Discount Restrictions Apply

Showtimes Valid Only 8/26/10

Maya Bakersfield 16 Cinemas

Matinee $6.00, Children/Seniors $6.00, General Admission $9.00, Text Movies to 21321 for 3D presentation add $3.00 to normal ticket price.

Returning to 3D Digital & IMAX Theatres for a limited time only; PRESENTED IN DOLBY DIGITAL The Lottery Ticket DIGITAL – PG-13 11:00 1:25 4:00 6:45 9:30 Piranha 3-D DIGITAL– R 11:50 2:15 4:45 7:30 10:10 Eat, Pray, Love DIGITAL– PG-13 12:30 3:40 7:00 10:00 Eat, Pray, Love – PG-13 11:25 2:30 5:35 8:45

Nanny McPhee Returns – PG 10:55 1:25 4:00 6:45 9:30 Vampires Suck – PG-13 11:05 12:00 2:10 3:30 4:15 6:20 8:00 8:30 10:40

James Cameron’s

Avatar

Opening at Maya Bakersfield 8/27/10 The Expendables – R 11:30 12:15 2:00 2:40 4:30 5:15 7:10 7:45 9:40 10:25

rom the depths of The Basement to the open air of downtown Bakersfield, Hectic Films is giving the local film community a much needed shot in the arm. Known for Internet short films and locally produced features, the production company is hosting two weekly movie nights in downtown Bakersfield, offering local filmmakers a venue to screen the fruits of their labors. Go underground Tuesday evenings for Films Underground at The Basement and then come up for air on Fridays for Hectic’s outdoor theater The Grip at Caffeine Supreme. Both venues kick off the movies at 8 p.m. and are giving film lovers the opportunity to catch locally produced flicks mixed in with B-movie horror classics — a combination that Hectic Films owner Rickey Bird Jr. says is providing some much needed exposure to the local scene, Bird said. “We gain the people coming in by showing these movies like ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ and ‘Night of the Living Dead.’ Then we have intermissions where we show locally produced films and shorts, Hectic Films trailers and older pieces that we have produced but haven’t put up on the Internet.” Bird likes the diversity that comes with hosting films in two locations as each offers something special for the viewer. “The coffee shop is perfect for this. You go out there and hang out on the grass and the coffee shop is still open. Picnic tables are there, you can bring coolers, lawn chairs and blankets.” Bird warns that no alcoholic beverages are allowed as they do not have a permit, but he is working on refreshment specials for future screenings. The Basement, while just around the corner, is a completely different animal. Works of local artists serve as a backdrop for the screenings, giving people a taste of the downtown Bak-

Films Underground at The Basement Where: 2001 Chester Ave. When: 8 p.m. Tuesdays Admission: $4 Lineup: Aug. 31: “Scream Bloody Murder” Sept. 7: “Attack of the Giant Leeches” Sept. 14: “Nosferatu” Sept. 21: “Carnival of Souls” Sept. 28: “Drive-In Massacre”

The Grip at Caffeine Supreme Where: Caffeine Supreme, 20th and F streets When: 8 p.m. Fridays Admission: Free Lineup: Friday: “Little Shop of Horrors” Sept. 3: “Delano” Sept. 10: “Night of the Living Dead” Sept. 17: “Death Rides a Horse” Sept. 24: “Door-to-Door Maniac” (starring Johnny Cash) Oct. 1: “The Brain That Wouldn't Die” Information: www.hecticfilms.com

ersfield art scene. The venue also brings viewers closer to the heartbeat of Hectic Films as Bird has begun to build film sets at the location in partnership with Basement owner Deon Bell. “We hooked up because I was going to start doing some shooting down there,” Bird said. “But then I asked him if I could use the extra space for some sets and maybe some cross-promotion where I could bring people down into his

gallery and show movies.” Bell, an artist and longtime patron of the arts, was happy to have that element of the scene developed in his establishment. “I’ve always wanted to do more with the film side of the arts scene,” Bell said. “There aren’t too many people here in Bakersfield who make films the way Rickey does, and I thought it would be great to get him involved.” As both an artist and gallery owner, Bell knows the importance of an available venue. “Artists need to have a place to show their work. It gives them a reason to keep on creating,” Bell said. “I have a lot of friends who make short films and they do it because they love it. Without a place to show their stuff they lose interest. But with Rickey there with his screens and projectors, the accessibility will encourage them to produce more.” Bird agrees with Bell’s predictions that the movie nights, which have been in operation for a month, will encourage local artists to keep creating. “The first few weeks we showed movies made here in Bakersfield like ‘Stereotype’ by John F.U., Matt Kieley’s ‘Carte Blanche’ and Myron Ward’s ‘Who Hit Me,’” Bird said. “Now we are trying to let our local content build up again while we show the horror movies.” According to Bird, he is beginning to see a positive response from his friends and local filmmakers who have, for the most part, been taking their time when it comes to delivering a finished product. “Now that we have started to screen, two of my other buddies who make movies have gotten motivated to start filming and finishing up their current projects,” Bell said. “I’m hoping this will lead to even more people showing their films. Sometimes, unfortunately, this part of the Bakersfield scene needs a little jump-start.”

Step Up - PG-13 3:40 6:10 9:00 The Other Guys – PG-13 11:20 1:00 1:50 4:20 5:25 7:05 9:50 10:20 Cats & Dogs The Revenge Of Kitty Galore – G 11:05 1:20 Salt – PG-13 7:40 9:55 Inception – PG-13 11:45 2:45 6:00 9:20

The Lottery Ticket – PG-13 11:55 2:25 8:00 10:35

Charlie St. Cloud – PG-13 11:00

The Switch – PG-13 11:15 1:45 4:25 7:15 10:00

Despicable Me – PG 11:00 1:10 3:20 5:30

Dinner For Scmucks – PG-13 Scott Pilgrim vs The World – PG-13 5:10 1:15 4:05 6:35 9:15 1000 California Ave. • 661-636-0484 • mayacinemas.com

YOU CAN WIN A $1,000 TOP PRIZE IN THE EYE COOK CONTEST Calling all local amateur cooks: Do you want a chance at a $1,000 Urner’s gift card and bragging rights as a top local cook? Well, then The Bakersfield Californian’s Eye Cook competition is for you!

Olcotts gift cards Just for attending the Eye Cook finals at Urner’s on Oct. 30, you’ll have a chance at any of the $600 in door prizes from DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen!

What you can win

How to win

Grand prize: $1,000 Urner’s gift card Top runners-up: $500 Urner’s gift card

What we want: We’re looking for original recipes in one of three categories — main dish, appetizer/side dish or dessert. How to enter: Submit your

Third-place winners: $200

recipe, name and phone number via e-mail to eyecook@bakersfield.com or mail entries to Eye Cook 2010 Attn: Stefani Dias, P.O. Bin 440, Bakersfield CA 93302. (All entries become property of The Bakersfield Californian.) Eligibility: You must be available for the semifinals on Sept. 25 and the finals on Oct. 30 to qualify. Employees of The Californian and Urner’s, plus their families and any vendors or affiliates, are not eligible.

Thursday, August 26, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

The day of his life Singer Bobby Durham honored by mayor BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

s days go, Tuesday had all the charm of a typical August scorcher — which is to say, no charm at all. The mercury spiked to triple digits, the air quality was in the don’t-eventhink-about-breathing range and kids in stiff new clothes, crashing from their first-day-of-school high, were coming to the sobering realization they were on day two of a long, long year. Bobby Durham, on the other hand, liked his Tuesday just fine. In fact, you could say it was his day — and he has the proclamation, signed by no less an authority than Mayor Harvey Hall himself, to back him up. Aug. 24, 2010, was officially proclaimed Bobby Durham Day in Bakersfield, in honor of the country music singer and purveyor, champion and keeper of the Bakersfield Sound, who’s been kicking out the footlights (as his close friend Merle Haggard might put it) for 58 years now. “Any day they want to give me an honor like this, God, I don’t care what the temperature is, it makes me no difference,” Durham said in an interview Tuesday. “What an honor. I just can’t believe this.” In the true spirit of politics, once other local leaders got wind of the hoopla, they glommed on as well, with accolades and certificates presented to Durham at his Crystal Palace concert and celebration Tuesday night. Representatives for Rep. Kevin McCarthy, state senators Roy Ashburn and Dean Florez and Assemblyman Danny Gilmore were on hand to honor the Bakersfield native. County Supervisor Jon McQuiston was expected to show up himself. But it all started with country music fan Hall, who was approached by a friend of Durham’s about giving the performer his due. “I’m a happy person when it comes to giving recognition to people,” Hall said. “It’s always very special. It’s the part of the job I like the most.” Hall said his office bestows about 50 to 60 of these proclamations a year and that the honorees must have done something significant to deserve it. In selecting Durham, the may-

Bobby Durham and his wife, SanDee, speak with Bakersfield Mayor Harvey Hall at the Crystal Palace on Tuesday night.

Friends, family and fans work their way around the dance floor as Bobby Durham performs.

or pretty much hit the mark. Consider these career highlights: A gold album, an appearance at the Grand Ole Opry, a recording contract with Capitol Records and lifelong friendships with the likes of Buck Owens, Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Billy Mize, Red Simpson and other visionary performers. Bobby Durham Day: not a bad way to end a respectable career, right? Not so fast with the retrospectives, buddy. This performer is busy writing chapter two. A few years ago, just as the father of five grown daughters was settling in to a contented niche playing bars around town, along came a second wind — make that a gust — in the form of

his great love, SanDee, and a new song he recorded now getting play on KUZZ. The song? “The Bakersfield Sound” naturally. The video was set to be filmed at Tuesday night’s event, and the single is to be included on an album Durham is cutting. The performer owes much of his career resurgence to Owens, the “second father” to whom he went for advice on so many occasions, including when Durham was approached awhile back with some career opportunities. “The last time I saw Buck was about two weeks before he passed away. He told me, ‘Bobby, your age is not going to hinder you. Your age and the experience you have had, the years you’ve been playing, is going to be a plus. Believe what I’m telling you. I’ve never told you wrong.’” Durham can’t say enough about the influence Owens has had on his life. He remembers being a newly minted recording artist in 1962 and touring with Buck and the Buckaroos. “The first place I played with Buck was the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas. I wore my first Nudie suit. He told me I could borrow (Buckaroo bass player) Doyle Holly’s suit. ‘You have to look like a star if you’re recording for Capitol Records,’” Durham remembers his mentor saying. It was the friendships and camaraderie of those days — as much as the music itself — that led someone with a genius for marketing to coin it “The Bakersfield Sound,” Durham said. “When one of us went to

MICHAEL FAGANS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Bobby Durham was in his element on stage at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace on Tuesday night.

SanDee Durham spends a quiet moment with a Bonnie Owens and Merle Haggard album display before going on stage with her husband Bobby for the debut of his song “The Bakersfield Sound.”

record, everyone went to help. When I recorded, Tommy Collins and Billy Mize played rhythm guitar, Merle played bass, Red Simpson played piano. All Bakersfield people.” Of the old gang, Mize and Haggard (“he’s like a brother”) couldn’t make Tuesday’s celebration — Mize because he wasn’t feeling up to it and Haggard because he’s on tour. That’s OK. Durham understands — both the life of a troubadour and the aches and pains. (“I have problems with my back, arthritis. Maybe from one party too many.”) Though the party days are over, the fun isn’t, said Durham, 68, who credits his wife for his happiness. They’ve been togeth-

Bobby Durham hugs a friend in the lobby of the Crystal Palace.

er about five years. “When I met SanDee I was playing at Trout’s. I played there for 20 years. I figured that was going to be it. I was done. I was never going to record again. I was just too old. But then when all this started happening, I just had to pinch myself.” So how does this latest honor compare with a gold record, hit songs and performing on the Opry? “It’s right up there at the top with the rest of them wonderful things. I can’t believe the mayor was the one that said ‘We’ll make this Bobby Durham Day. What an honor coming from Mayor Harvey Hall. “I finally got contentment and that’s all I asked for in my entire my life.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 26, 2010

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

CAMILLE GAVIN: Fairy tale farce A

fairy tale with a twist is the way director Bruce Saathoff describes “Once Upon a Mattress,” now playing at

Stars. And that’s a fair description because this musical comedy has all the elements of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of “The Princess and the Pea.” But everything — both the characters and the action — is slightly out of whack. I have yet to see the show but judging from the comments of readers who attended the opening last Friday, it’s definitely in the “thumbs-up” category. However I did speak with Jeff Malone, one of the actors in the show. He played Saathoff’s police officer sidekick in Stars’ recent production of “Urinetown,” and emphasized that “Once Upon a Mattress” is a family friendly show. In “Mattress” he has a dual role. Malone is a singing minstrel as well as the narrator, who tells the story and keeps the audience abreast of what’s going on in this makebelieve royal court. At times, though, he simply stands aside and enjoys the action, as is the case with Mark Price’s portrayal of King Sextimus the Silent. “I love working with Mark Price,” Malone said. “He’s mute — it’s like a curse that’s been put on him — and it’s so funny to watch him mime everything.” Malone, who’s a vocal music teacher for the Panama-Buena Vista School District, also praised the performance of Tamara Shepherd-White, who portrays the princess who’s “auditioning” to be the bride of Prince Dauntless, played by Jon Jones. “Tammy is phenomenal as Princess Winnifred,” Malone said. “She’s hysterically funny — funnier than Carol Burnett,” who played the part in the original Broadway production. Others in lead roles are Evan Boler, Bethany Rowlee, Jason Sliger, Jayde Nicole Stever and Darren McDonald. There’s also a 12-member chorus of singers and dancers. Amber O’Reilly is the show’s vocal director. Frank Sierra and Alexandra De La Mora did the choreography.

GO & DO ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ When: Doors open at 6 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; doors open at noon, show at 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Stars Theatre Restaurant, 1931 Chester Ave. Admission: $50 to $54, dinner and show; show only, $30; for students, $30 or $15 for show only Information: 325-6100

First Wednesday When: 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesday Where: Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. Admission: $5; $4, seniors; free to members Information: 323-7219

‘Silly Smiles’ entries When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday Where: Crossroads Gallery, 101 E. Tehachapi Blvd., Tehachapi Fee: $15 per work submitted Information: 822-5242

‘The Blue Room’ When: 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: $5; Must be 18 or older Information: 327-PLAY

The setting, designed by Cory McCall, is the interior of a castle, and the colorful costumes were rented from a company in Los Angeles. “We have a fantastic set and costumes,” said Saathoff. “And that’s important, especially if you’re doing a period piece (because) you can’t just slap it together.” Saathoff said the cast includes a number of new faces, including quite a few young people who were students in Stars School of Performing Arts.

Crossroads open to guest artists Mel White of Crossroads Gallery in Tehachapi, says monthly exhibits, each with a different focus, are open to guest artists. Themes for each month, and White’s

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF PETER BECKMAN

In the rousing song-and-dance number “I’m in Love with a Girl Named Fred,” Princess Winnifred the Woebegone, played by Tamara Shepherd-White, displays her strength to Prince Dauntless, played by Jon Jones.

descriptions, are: September: Silly Smiles — anything that makes someone smile — the sillier the better October: Ooooks and Spoooks — the month of Halloween we like creepy things on our walls November: Fall Colors — Concentrate on oranges, golds, browns (not just trees). December: Anything Goes — The annual December show is wide open to all themes and subjects. Entries for each exhibit will be received only on the first Wednesday of each month, between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Fee is $15 for each piece accepted for the show. Exhibits open on the first Friday of the month. For other details, visit crossroadsgallerytehachapi.com.

‘The Blue Room’ A controversial play recommended for adults only opens Friday evening at The Empty Space. “The Blue Room” is based on “La Ronde,” a play written by Arthur Schnitzler in the early 1900s. As adapted and updated by David Hare, it tells the story of five couples who try to find

The Court Jester, played by Evan Boler, dances in memory of his late father, who was also a court jester.

love and worth through sex and indiscretion, only to be left alone and empty, according to information provided by the theater. It contains nudity and sexual situations. The play stars Natily Ray, Nathan Stratton, Angela Hanawalt, Mike Bedard, Julie Jordan Scott, Steve Evans, Deanna Moreno, Marc Halling, Alisha Mason, Kos Presas, Billie Joe Fox and Kelly Christopherson. Michelle Guerrero is the director.

Thursday, August 26, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

The smile’s on us: Gaslight celebrates fifth anniversary Family friendly fare has found its niche BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing columnist

aslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall is whooping it up this evening with a fifth anniversary celebration that includes champagne, cider, birthday cake and a costume party. Oh yes! And a special performance of “My Big Fat Oildale Wedding.” Gaslight prides itself on presenting family friendly fare, perhaps because it’s a three-generation family run business. It’s owned by the husband-andwife team of Arnie Carlos and Linda Larma. Daughter Kimberly Slikker, a dancer, actress and teacher, is also hard at work at the theater. Michael Prince, the artistic director, is married to the couple’s other daughter, actress-dancer Jennifer Prince. And Jack, the Princes’ 3-year-old son, is their close companion during daytime working hours. We asked Michael to fill us in on what makes the Gaslight one of the most popular theaters in town. What’s the secret of the Gaslight Melodrama’s success? It’s hard to say. That’s not really something we think about. We’re more concerned with putting on the best possible experience for our audience. If I had to guess, I would say it’s because we really take an active role in knowing our audience and knowing what they want and what they want to see. You offer the only live theater in northwest Bakersfield. Is that an advantage? Again, it’s hard to say. We’ve found that most people who like theater in Bakersfield see all theater in Bakersfield. As long as we’re putting on a quality show, people will come. We have people come all the way from Tehachapi, Fresno, Los Angeles — Las Vegas even. So I don’t think location has much to do with it. What was the Gaslight’s funniest show? After taking a poll of our cast members, we decided that “The Mobfather” was our funniest show. It was probably one of our more ambitious shows that dealt with family, crime, love, betrayal

‘My Big Fat Oildale Wedding’ When: 7 p.m. today Where: Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive Admission: Adults, $20; seniors, $18; children 12 and under, $9 Information: 587-3377

and being extremely fun at the same time. Most successful show? “My Big Fat Oildale Wedding.” The first time we did it, we sold out the entire run within two and a half weeks. We had waiting lists with over 100 people on them and so many requests to bring it back that we brought it back three months later for another six-week run. Again, it broke box office records. This time around our audiences voted for us to bring it back for our fifth anniversary show. The success of it has been overwhelming and humbling. Biggest flop? Our second production, “Frankenstein: The Musical.” It’s not that it was a bad show; it was a very dark and very serious show. We had started off with our first show being very fun and over the top and our audience expected that to continue and when it didn’t, attendance just dropped off. We actually had to close that show three weeks early and rush our third show, “Zorro,” onto the stage fast just to get our numbers back up and let people know that we’re here to bring the funny. Best performances? Our best performances are when the house is full and the audience has come to have a good time. We really pride ourselves on being a place where people can come and forget their worries and their day-to-day problems and have a really fun experience. We’re not trying to examine the human condition; we just want to make people smile and laugh. And I think that’s a good thing. Show with the most technical difficulties? There’ve been a few shows where we felt going into tech week we may have bit off more than we can chew, but we’ve always managed to pull it off. “Space: The Musical” was a challenge because of re-creating the bridge from the

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL PRINCE

Michael Prince, Greg Ramsdell and Scott Hillberry appear in “My Big Fat Oildale Wedding.”

Starship Enterprise on our stage but we did and it looked great. Another one would be “The Skylight Zone” because the whole show, from props and costumes to sets and makeup had to be in black and white, but again that was a lot of fun and looked and sounded awesome. Best personal highlight? For me, it’s whenever a new show that I’ve written opens and the audience laughs at the first joke. That’s when I have a huge sigh of relief and all the worry I’ve had washes away. But honestly, just being able to provide a fun experience for a family is a highlight. Best compliment you ever received on the Melodrama? A note we got in the mail that said: “My friend is going through the final stages of cancer and she’s doing some pretty intense chemotherapy right now and the only thing that puts a smile on her face is coming to see you guys perform. Thank you for giving my friend some light in her life.” That stuck with us so deeply that we really use that as our mantra. It is our job to make people happy and put a smile on their faces. Age of the oldest person you’ve sung Happy Birthday to? A young and vibrant 98 years old.

Funniest thing that happened during a production? So many unexpected things happen during a performance and the funniest stuff is the stuff that’s not planned and the way we work those happy accidents into the show. From shoes flying off during dance numbers, guns falling apart during tense moments, so many. During “The Mobfather” we gave an audience member a part in the show with a costume and character name and all. And at the end they won an Oscar for their portrayal. That was always fun because we, as the cast, never quite knew what to expect on any given night. How many scripts have you written? I’ve co-written six and written nine on my own. How big is the theater’s wardrobe? How many costumes? We have two mini barns full of costumes as well as an off-site storage unit full. I couldn’t even begin to count how many we have. It’s a lot. How many cast members do you have? How many staffers? We have five full-time cast members and about three part time. We also have many community players who work with us on a one-show basis. Many of our play-

ers perform at other theatres around town. We also have a fulltime musical director, technical director and costume designer plus about four others that work in our lounge and box office, not to mention everyone in our family who works here day in and day out. How many shows will you do next year? We’ve been doing eight shows a year with six-week runs. Occasionally, we’ll do a five-week run. Starting next year we’ll be going to a six-show season with eight-week runs per show. Do you see any potential for collaborating with other theaters in town? There’s always potential to collaborate with other theatres. It just depends on the project and if we’re asked to join. Ever feel the desire to go a little more serious? Not at all. There’s enough serious in the world right now. And there’s enough serious being performed at other theatres, which is great. I think there’s room in any community for all types of theatre to be performed. We just prefer to focus on comedy and family fun entertainment. We don’t take ourselves too seriously around here, but we do take what we do very seriously.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 26, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Welcome back, Wichitas Influential local band playing again

Bakotopia Radio

efore “Bakobilly” became all the rage, The Wichitas were the original local roots country rockers through the ’90s. After an extended hiatus and a few reunions, they’re back again, this time opening for Jack Ingram at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace this Sunday at 7 p.m., and Ryan Bingham at B Ryder’s on Sept. 12 at 8 p.m. During the ’80s, new wave, punk, and alternative country were the sounds of the underground. Bands like L.A.’s The Blasters, Lone Justice along with Texas’ Rank and File and Nashville’s Jason and The Scorchers combined country twang with punk distortion in city dive bars. Some might say the Bakersfield Sound directly inspired its “cowpunk” style. But for Wichitas lead vocalist and guitarist Olen Taylor, who formed The Wichitas in ’92, inspiration came across the water in the form of British rock ’n’ rollers Rockpile. Led by guitarist Dave Mason and bassist Nick Lowe, their “pub-rock” style attracted Taylor. “Bands like Rockpile taught us we could do this,” he said. “And Dave Mason should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.” Not fond of media hype, Taylor certainly has earned the right to talk up his band’s resume. Over the course of their nearly 20-year existence, they’ve scored some prime gig slots opening for Johnny

9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: In-studio performance by Live lead vocalist Ed Kowalczyk Interview with Hectic Films’ Rickey Bird Interview with comedian Ralphie May, appearing Sept. 23 at the Fox.

Cash, Willie Nelson, Los Lobos, plus a coveted spot on the ’95 Buck Owens/Merle Haggard concert at the Kern County Fairgrounds. “The promoters seemed to like us. I remember some of the local scene reaction when we used to be on these shows would be, ‘Why these guys?’ Listen, we may be knuckleheads, but we’re not that bad.” The current Wichitas lineup also features Bruce Jones, drums; Chris Goodsell (aka Purdy Spackle), bass; Robert Tidwell, guitar; and Christopher O’Brien — who’s known The Wichitas since performing with local power-pop band Brian Jones Was Murdered back in the day. “Our bands were sort of mutual fans. I’ve worked with Bruce since ’93, and we knew each other fairly well. When The Wichitas called me up, I jumped at the chance,” O’Brien said. One member who won’t be joining them for the shows is original guitarist Mark Lipco. Comparative to an extended family, Lipco’s absence doesn’t mean he’s out of the band. “This has always been just a gathering of friends. We’ve gone through a few members, but we’ve always wanted to be in this band, and Mark is still with us.” Taylor explains that while there

are no solid plans to perform regularly, the band is open to do more should a good opportunity present itself. “We’ll see what happens. It’s not about the money, it’s just playing on our terms.”

Pac West Sound at Sunset Junction During my visit to the 30th anniversary Sunset Junction music and arts festival in Silver Lake this past weekend, it was great to see Bakersfield sound company Pac West in control. Five stages were all run by familiar local faces, including company sound engineer Erik Madera, who briefly described the massive undertaking. “The entire warehouse is empty,” he said before scurrying off to check on some cabling. And it was all put to good use. As I caught sets from hip-hop legend Big Daddy Kane, indie bands Saint Motel, Girl In A Coma, plus Fishbone and a newly energized Bad Brains, who whipped up the biggest mosh pit I’ve seen in a few years, the Pac West bunch kept things crystal clear. Now, if only our DBA could figure out a way to throw a similar festival, life would be that much better in Bako. Check out photos from my Sunset Junction experience at: bakotopia.com.

Matt’s picks “Little Shop of Horrors” at Caffeine Supreme, 20th and F, 8 p.m., Friday, Free, 873-4712. Not the 1986 musical version, this is the original 1960 Roger Corman black-and-white comedy with Jack Nicholson. Shot in two days using leftover movie sets, its original running title was “The Passionate People Eater.” I’ve checked out the cool outdoor screen the Hectic guys built for these free screenings and the picture is nice. Just be careful not to

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 THE WICHITAS

The Wichitas in 1995.

MATT MUNOZ / THE CALIFORNIAN

Solrak of The B-Side Players performs at Sunset Junction in Silver Lake on Aug. 21.

wreck your car while you’re driving by to catch a glimpse like I almost did last time. Pull over and watch. Operation Comedy at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 8 p.m. Saturday, $20, 324-2557. Operation Repo’s Matt Burch and Froy Tercero headline this show, along with comedians Jim Trino, Fat James, Rick Shapiro and Big Mike. I was a huge fan of the Operation Repo TV show until I found out it was fake. Oops, did I spoil the surprise? Don’t forget to ask Matt and Froy how it is co-starring with the Sea Witch from Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” They’ll get it.

MATT MUNOZ / THE CALIFORNIAN

Erik Madera and Danny Almeyda of Bakersfield’s Pac West Sound at Sunset Junction in Silver Lake. Funky Fight Night 3 at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 6 p.m. Saturday, $10, 397-7304. Current IBF boxing champ James Toney makes his MMA debut against Randy Couture in what has become a monthly gathering of Bakersfield’s UFC fans at B Ryder’s. The sport has come a long way from the original “no rules” approach of the early bouts. Now at UFC 118, that’s a lot of broken noses lined with good sportsmanship. After the fight, stick around for the “funky” portion with music by Mento Buru and DJ Mikey. No protective gear required.

Thursday, August 26, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Car show to raise funds to fight deadly disease O

ne woman’s promise to her dying husband is being realized Saturday with the Bill Brannon Memorial Fundraiser Car Show at Buttonwillow Park. Organizer Cindi Brannon says she will donate proceeds to Vanderbilt Research Center in Nashville in honor of her late husband, Bill, who succumbed to Multiple System Atrophy in January 2009. The little-known but devastating disease is somewhat similar to Parkinson’s Disease, Cindi Brandon said. “If you are diagnosed with Parkinson’s you can live for 20, 30 or even 40 years. But MSA is atypical, meaning 10 years or less. “I made a vow to my husband to continue to fight against this disease. I promised to become an advocate and this is how I’m doing it.” Brannon is a member of an online MSA support group through Yahoo.com and helps local MSA patients with physical therapy. Some of those patients will be in attendance at the benefit, along with the facilita-

Bill Brannon Benefit Memorial Fundraiser Car Show When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday Where: Buttonwillow Park, Highway 58 and Meadow Street Admission: $20 entry fee per vehicle; no cost for spectators

tor of the support group, who will be traveling from San Diego for the event. Bill was a longtime member of Old Farts Car Club. His old friends have rallied around Brannon to help make the fundraiser a success. They will be out in force, showing their cars alongside Bill’s five automobiles, which Brannon is rolling out for this special occasion. “I need to show Bill’s cars. He had a ’57 Chevy, ’56 Ford pickup, ’63 Chevy Impala, a ’65 Ford Mustang and a ’36 Chevy Sedan.” Brannon reminds would-be participants that all cars are welcome at the

event with a $20 entry fee. In addition to the car show, the event will feature fun for young and old. The Bobby Durham Band will be taking time out from regular stints at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace to perform. Attendees can also enter a raffle, with more than 300 prizes waiting to be given away. Arts, crafts and food vendors will also be on sight and a barbecue lunch will be available courtesy of Buttonwillow’s Willow Ranch Restaurant. This is Brannon’s first year hosting the benefit and she hopes her hard work will pay off when it comes to writing a check to Vanderbilt University. After doing a little research she says it was clear to her which medical research facility would put the money to the best use. “There are two medical centers that do MSA research, one in Michigan and one in Tennessee. I just felt the program at Vanderbilt was more to my heart and to my needs when it came to Bill.”

Shooting tournament set for Friday Scouts provide chance to sharpen skills BY ALLIE CASTRO Californian staff writer acastro@bakersfield.com

or those itching for the start of dove-hunting season, the Boy Scouts of America is providing the perfect opportunity for a pre-season warmup that also serves a good cause. The 11th annual Sporting Clay Tournament will take place Friday at Five Dogs Shooting Range. One of the biggest fundraisers of the year, the tournament came about due to the abundance of hunting enthusiasts in the community. Scout Executive Danny Tucker says, “It was a niche that fit

Sporting Clay Tournament When: Friday; registration starts at 7:15 a.m., tournament begins at 8 a.m., lunch and awards begin at 11:45 a.m. Where: Five Dogs Shooting Range, 20238 Woody Road Admission: $150 per shooter Information: 325-9036

into the Bakersfield climate. We saw that opportunity, and that people here enjoy hunting here in Kern County, so it was a natural progression for us.” During the tournament — in both the expert and the novice categories — teams of five will shoot at 20 stations with each station having some sort of variation.

At the end of the tournament, prizes donated by AT&T will be given to the winning team in each category, along with a prize for the overall winner and an award for a newcomer still trying to get the hang of shooting. Teams are welcome; individuals who sign up will be placed on a team. Attendees will also be treated to a rib eye lunch, and will have the opportunity to win prizes — such as shotguns, a pig hunt for two donated by Tejon Ranch and a 100th anniversary shotgun specially designed to commemorate the Boy Scouts’ 100-year anniversary. The raffle takes place after the tournament. All of the proceeds will go toward supporting the various programs of the Kern, Inyo, and Mono counties’ chapters of the Boy Scouts of America.

Sublime returns to stage at Rabobank on Nov. 5

ka-punk band Sublime with Rome have just announced they are adding a show in Bakersfield Nov. 5 to the second leg of their 2010 concert tour. Tickets for the concert at the theater at Rabobank Convention Center go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday. Original members of Sublime, Bud Gaugh and Eric Wilson, with new frontman Rome officially returned to

the stage this spring, their first outing in 14 years. In addition to performing their new song “Panic” on tour, the band has been performing songs from Sublime’s back catalog, many of which have never been performed live. Sublime has sold over 17 million albums worldwide. Formed in Long Beach in 1988, Sublime’s final per-

formance — until the recent tour — was in the spring of 1996. Doors for the Nov. 5 concert open at 6:30 p.m.; the show is at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 the day of the show, not including fees. Tickets are available at the Rabobank box office, 1001 Truxtun Ave., at ticketmaster.com and by phone at 800-745-3000.

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 26, 2010

Eye Street

Local jazz musician set for performance Morfin preparing to head back to college this fall BY MATT MUNOZ Bakotopia.com editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

t’s back to school for local jazz phenom Isaiah Morfin. Making a special concert appearance tonight at Metro Galleries, the 20-year-old saxophonist is looking forward to continuing his music studies at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston this September. But before he begins his next round of studies, he’s throwing a jazzy farewell show. “I just finished my third semester. But it’s a four-year program, and I have some time to go,” said Morfin, who will be performing at Metro backed by an all-star band, including Doug Davis, keyboard; Glen Fong, bass; Jim Scully, guitar; Micah Nactia; Canaan McDuffie on drums; along with Jennifer Scully and Joy Wright on vocals. With a reputation for tearing up local stages and festivals like CSUB’s annual Jazz Festival, Morfin has enjoyed the challenges of being in Boston since fall of 2009. Enrolling with a double major of performance and professional music, he admits adapting to life in the big city away from family and friends took some time. “It was crazy the first time I went, and it was so cold you just don’t know what to do. It’s easy to get discouraged. There are so many musicians in the area and everyone’s trying to gig. But it’s great being around people who are as excited as you are.” Over the past year, Morfin has been under the direction of Berklee faculty music heavies like saxophonist Joe Lovano and drummer Terry Lynn Carrington to name a few. Ready to absorb even more music knowledge upon his return, he plans on

PHOTO COURTESY OF ISAIAH MORFIN

Isaiah Morfin will perform at Metro Galleries tonight.

performing some new jazz originals, plus some inspirational compositions at Metro. “We’ll be playing some Latin and groovin’ swing tunes to make you snap your fingers — music people can emotionally respond, too. It’s going to be a great concert,” Morfin said.

An Evening with Isaiah Morfin and friends When: 7 p.m. tonight Where: Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. Admission: $8 Information: 634-9598

Oildorado gets its own Dewar’s chew BY ALLIE CASTRO Californian staff writer acastro@bakersfield.com

Now that Dewar’s has passed the 100year mark, the candy and ice cream shop is spreading the love to others in the exclusive club, offering a brand-new peanut butter-filled chocolate chew in honor of the centennial of Oildorado Days in Taft. The chew is available at both Bakersfield locations of Dewar’s and at the headquarters of the festival, a newly refurbished beauty of a building at 430 Main St. in Taft. The two-story brick building, which opened in 1927 as a Masonic temple, has been returned to its former grandeur after remaining in dire need of a makeover these last 20 years. “The store is the centerpiece for all the things going on leading up to Oildorado,” said Taft Oildorado Inc. president Eric Cooper. Events include open-mic coffeehouse

entertainment nights, talks by wellknown residents of Taft, maybe a midnight sale or two, and more. Visitors may also purchase Oildorado tickets and souvenirs, including Oildorado T-shirts, polos, blankets, pocket knives, clocks, belt buckles, glasses, even bronze sculptures from the artists involved in the creation of commemorative sculptures made for the Oildorado event. In addition to the Dewar’s chews, snacks, soda, ice cream and candy are available. For a listing of all of the events the store will host in the weeks leading up to Oildorado, check the official Oildorado website at oildoradodays.com in the coming weeks. Oildorado Days takes place Oct. 14-24. The store will be open now through Nov. 1. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day but Sunday. (Hours will be extended during Oildorado Days in October.)

Thursday, August 26, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

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aking a cool dip in the Union Avenue Plunge, driving past the quaint Lebec Hotel, crossing your fingers that the family sedan had one more trip up the Grapevine in it, the spiffy service station attendant: They’re all memories of one artist’s childhood spent roaming up and down the 99 visiting family. But they could just as easily be from the memory scrapbook of any 40-plus native of the valley. Now those images form a collection of paintings at a gallery in Lodi, and if the photos sent our way are any indication, the exhibit, called “Old U.S. 99,” might warrant a ride of your own up the highway. More from the media release we received from the Knowlton Gallery: Dennis Ziemienski, whose work has been featured on book covers, posters for the Super Bowl and Kentucky Derby, as well as his work with Rolling Stone magazine and the New York Times, has chosen the road trips he took as a kid as inspiration for his new body of work. Old U.S. Highway 99 was California’s first major north-south highway, at one time reaching from Mexico to the Oregon border. Built in the 1910s and ’20s, many Dust Bowl refugees traveled this road looking for employment. “A large part of the Sicilian side of my family,” says Ziemienski, “lived along this route, so it became our family’s favorite road trip.” His show will lead the viewer down the mid-century eucalyptus and palm-lined U.S. Highway 99, from California’s capital south through the San Joaquin Valley to greater Los Angeles. Take this journey and re-live a refreshment stop at a Giant Orange, the panorama of mile upon mile of row crops punctuated by produce stands, competing neon arrows, Dairy Queens and sleepy Main Streets. “Nearly all these images have been lost to highway upgrades and modern tastes, but the memories live on in the imagination of the people who traveled Old U.S. 99.”

Opening reception for ‘Old U.S. 99’ by Dennis Ziemienski When: 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday; exhibit runs through Sept. 25 Where: The Knowlton Gallery, 115 S. School St. #14 in Lodi Information: 209-368-5123; www.ziemienski.com

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A swimmer at the old Union Avenue Plunge by Dennis Ziemienski, who is showing a collection of paintings at a Lodi gallery inspired by trips he took as a child with his family up and down Highway 99.

Dennis Ziemienski’s work “Trouble in the Grapevine” will be among the pieces on exhibit starting Saturday at the Knowlton Gallery.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 26, 2010

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Community reading events recognize Hispanic heritage In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, all of Kern County is invited to join the next community read organized by One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern. The book, “Burro Genius” by Victor Villaseñor (“Rain of Gold,” “Macho!”), is a memoir of the author’s experience as the child of Mexican immigrants growing up in Southern California during the 1940s and ’50s. It is as much a commentary on the education system that discriminated against Spanish speakers — and failed to recognize the author’s severe dyslexia that made him seem like a “stupid Mexican” — as it is a story of family, culture, heritage and coming of age.

Lead partners Kern County Library and Cal State Bakersfield have organized two months of programming related to the community read, starting with a kickoff on Sept. 16 (Mexican Independence Day) at the Beale Memorial Library, and culminating with the author himself giving a free talk at CSUB on Nov. 9.

One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern encourages all community members, young and old, to read the book, hold book discussions, and participate in the many events related to National Hispanic Heritage Month this fall. According to hispanicheritagemonth.gov, this year’s theme “recognizes the strength and hard work of Hispanic Americans, whose zeal for family and country has helped shape society” — a very fitting theme for a community read of “Burro Genius.” For more information about One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern, contact organizer Kristie Coons at 3259584 or kcoons3@sbcglobal.net. — Cal State Bakersfield news release

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Highway. Free with $2 parking. Call 654-2359 for time and location. 9:30 to 11 a.m. Oct. 6: Panel discussion on themes related to “Burro Genius,” Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. Free for museum members, $5 adults, $4 seniors. bmoa.org. 7 p.m. Oct. 6: Showing of “The 800 Mile Wall,” a documentary about the U.S.-Mexico border, Dorothy Donahoe Hall, Room G102, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free with $2 parking. 7 p.m. Oct. 7: Salsa y Salsa, a celebration of Latin dance through demonstration and instruction from local experts with salsa tasting from the best local salsa makers, Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 7 p.m. Oct. 13: Discussion with author Carlos Fuentes on “Globalization: A New Deal for a New Age,” Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. 7 p.m. Oct. 14: CSUB’s History Forum with Dr. Gabriel Gutiérrez, director of the Center for the Study of the Peoples of the Americas at Cal State Northridge, who will present the historical context of

“Burro Genius,” Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free with $2 parking. 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 15: Book discussion about “Burro Genius,” Russo’s Books at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 24: Guelaguetza 2010, a festival celebrating Oaxacan culture with folkloric dances, music, art, crafts and food, CSUB Outdoor Amphitheatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Adults, $7.50; children under 12, free; $2 parking. upbj.org. Noon to 1:30 p.m. Nov. 1: Dia de los Muertos workshop with guest speaker Eva Patino, Student Union Multipurpose Room, 9001 Stockdale Highway, free with $2 parking. 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 2: “Altares de Familia,” a Day of the Dead celebration, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. 7 p.m. Nov. 9: Victor Villaseñor, author of “Burro Genius,” will speak about his memoir and sign books, CSUB Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free admission and parking in Lot I.

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Aug 20th thru Sept 25th

Showtimes: Friday and Saturdays at 7:00PM, Sunday at 2PM 12748 Jomani Dr. Call for reservations 587-3377 www.themelodrama.com

(Events free unless otherwise noted.) 5 p.m. Sept. 3: Opening reception for “Latination II,” Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. Sept. 10 to 25: “Bordertown” at Bakersfield Community Theatre, 2400 S. Chester Ave. Call 831-8114 for ticket prices. 11 a.m. Sept. 16: Kickoff of “Burro Genius” community read and National Hispanic Heritage Month with speakers and entertainment, Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 2 p.m. Sept. 18: Pam Muñoz Ryan Day, celebrating Bakersfield native and children’s author Pam Muñoz (“Esperanza Rising”), with entertainment, reception and book signing, Russo’s Books at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 24: Showing of “Sin Nombre,” a film made in Mexico touching on themes of immigration and gangs, Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $5. flics.org. Oct. 1 and 2: “Hispanic American and Spanish Literary and Cultural Symposium,” 9001 Stockdale

Jomani Dr.

E S

Rosedale Hwy.

“Reach,” a play commissioned by the Arts Council of Kern to teach theater to kids, will be presented Saturday. Local playwright Mary Amelia Reyna taught the participants, who range in age from 5 to 18, over four weeks at the Martin Luther King Center in southeast Bakersfield. “Reach” consists of 10 vignettes that depict real-life stories of conquering fear, realizing dreams and aspirations, triumphing against all odds, and reaching for the stars in a world full of violence and uncertainty.

Performance and mural unveiling When: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday Where: Martin Luther King Center, 1000 S. Owens St. Information: 324-9000

“Although the kids could not envision a final production, they readily agreed to recount their stories of everyday lives for me to spin into a play.

“Then they became not just actors, but also writers, directors, producers, set designers, and PR persons,” Reyna said. Also, under the tutelage of Bakersfield muralist Sebastian Muralles, the same students discovered their own artistic talents by adapting their stories onto a mural that will hang outside the center on the Stop the Violence building. The program was made possible by a grant from the California Table Grape Commission. — Arts Council of Kern

Thursday, August 26, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Ready, set, duck! Water balloons flying BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

re you a music enthusiast, Bakersfield High School supporter or just looking to settle a score? Head out to Yokuts Park Saturday as the Bakersfield High School Instrumental Music Boosters attempt to break the world record for largest water balloon fight. “It will be Drillers against all. So if you are from Bakersfield and have always wanted to drench a Driller, here’s your chance,” said band director and event organizer Randy Bennett. Bennett is hoping to have 5,000 people come to Saturday’s event to snatch the title from current Guinness Book of World Records holders Brigham Young University for their “Cougar Cool Down” on July 23, which boasted 3,927 attendees. A turnout of 5,000 is a lofty goal, but Bennett says he and the Band Boosters have been doing the legwork to get the numbers on the field. “We have commercials running on four radio stations, we have big electronic billboards, we’ve been handing out fliers at the malls and we have people coming from as far away as San Diego to support the high school. We want anybody and everybody.” Bennett knows what it’s like to travel for a good cause. He grew up in Oceanside and went to Long Beach State. He says that while Bakersfield is not his hometown, he was happy to come here and has been

Water balloon fight When: Carnival starts at noon; water balloon fight at 6 p.m. Where: Yokuts Park, Empire Drive and Truxtun Avenue Fee: $5, which includes a T-shirt, sandwich and two water balloons.

Best benefit of the heat? Cheap beer BY DIANNE HARDISTY Contributing writer

happy to stay. “I moved here for the school. I couldn’t beat the opportunity. It has been a blast!” While the water balloon fight may be the main attraction, the club has organized a daylong event surrounding the fundraiser. A carnival will be held at Yokuts Park from noon to 5 p.m. with food, games and rides for the whole family, including bounce houses, face painting, virtual batting cages and more. Chick-fil-A and the Bakersfield Condors will be on hand with games and prizes. At 5 p.m., Bennett says the fighters will be loaded into a temporary fenced stadium and the balloons will fly at 6 p.m. “For the Guinness record, there are rules to follow. We need to fence people in so we can verify the count. We are taking the soccer field and creating a game arena. One side will be for Drillers, the other will be for everyone else.” The cost to participate is $5. The fee earns you a Tshirt, two water balloons and a sandwich provided by Chick-fil-A. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Bakersfield High School Band. Bennett says due to recent budget cuts there isn’t much money left over for students to take part in many activities beyond their work in class. “This is band, it’s performance ensemble. If we want to perform at any venues, go anywhere or do anything outside of the classroom, we need to push this ourselves. From traveling to even repairing instruments, this is what the money will go to.”

ou won’t find a lot of moaning and groaning at Ethel’s Old Corral on Alfred Harrell Highway as the temperatures climb over the triple-digit mark. In fact, you will find people cheering the thermometer in hopes it climbs over 105 degrees. That’s because the northeast Bakersfield restaurant and bar drops the price of its draft beer as the temperature climbs. When it reaches 100 degrees, draft beer drops to $2 a glass. When it hits 105 degrees, the price drops to $1 a glass. “It gives people a reason to be glad it’s hot, rather that just complain about it,” said Natalie Mears, the restaurant’s owner. As Bakersfield’s “dry heat” got hotter in July, Mears cooked up her “beat global warming” idea. She says she has made good on her offer at least five times this summer, mostly serving up $2a-glass beer as temperatures crested 100 degrees. She predicted $1-a-glass beer

would be flowing freely this week as temperatures were predicted to be well above 105 degrees. “One dollar beer tones down the heat. It’s not so much a drudgery,” said Mears, who has owned Ethel’s for six years. “It’s a fun thing,” said John Hayes, a retired Chevron employee and East Bakersfield High graduate who stops by for lunch nearly every day. Ethel’s, which also goes by the name The Old Corral, is northeast Bakersfield’s equivalent to “Cheers,” where regulars hang out and everyone seems to know your name. But even “newcomers,” like Mike and Loretta Schield, who moved to Bakersfield in 1996, find Ethel’s enduring. “It’s one of Loretta’s and my very favorite places,” Mike wrote in an e-mail alerting The Californian to the discount. The discount beer offer is based on the readings from a simple thermometer hung on Ethel’s patio. “There’s nothing fancy at Ethel’s,” Mears said.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 26, 2010

Eye Street GO & DO Today Concerts by The Fountain, ska, rock and funk with Mento Buru, 7 to 9 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. Jazz Live with Isaiah Morfin & Friends, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. $8 at the door. 634-9598. Grand Opening Celebration, and presentation of “Two Faces of Plastic Surgery” by Dr. Lawrence M. Birnbaum who relocated to Essentiels Spa, 6:30 p.m., Essentiels Spa Et Beauté, 9000 Ming Ave., Suite K7. Celebration continues through Saturday. For appointments or a complimentary consultation, call 322-2025. City of Bakersfield Department of Recreation & Sports offers a wide variety of lessons, sports, classes and more. For more information, call 326-3866.

Friday Local music showcase, with Right Cross, 8 p.m., Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, Stockdale Highway and Buena Vista Road. Free. bakersfieldamphitheatre.us or or 852-7300. 11th annual Boys Scouts of America Sporting Clays Tournament, 7:15 to 7:45 a.m., check-in/registration, 7:30 a.m. warmup trap shooting, 8 a.m. tournament begins, 11:45 a.m. lunch, noon awards/raffle, Five Dogs Shooting Range, 20238 Woody Road. $150 per shooter. 325-9036. CSUB Women’s Soccer vs. Eastern Washington, 7 p.m., CSUB campus, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $4 to $10. 654-2583. Fire Donation Collection, for helping local victims from two fires this summer, The Salvation Army will be collecting cash donations, gift cards and gently used items, 2 to 4 p.m., Interim Healthcare, 4801 Truxtun Ave. All proceeds go toward assisting relief efforts. 395-1700. Late Night Skate, 7 p.m. to midnight, Rollerama West, 7850 Brimhall Road. $10, rental included. 589-7555. “Spontaneous Expression with Paint,” an Art for Healing program of Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield; 9:30 to noon, Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A streets. Free. mercybakersfield.org/art or to register, 324-7070. Wine Bar Flight, featuring a look back at the great Cabernet of 2003 Harvest, Karl Lawrence Dr. Crane Vineyard, Harlan, Bryant Family (96/100 WA) and more, 4 p.m., Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. Tastes, $5 to $30. 633-WINE. Wine Tasting, includes different wines and appetizers, 5:30 to 8 p.m., Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway. $25 per person. 8344433.

Saturday Fish Pierce Summertime Blue Revue, presented by Fish Entertainment and the Asthma and COPD Education Center; featuring Fish Pierce and friends, 12 blues bands with special guests, 3 to 10:30 p.m., Trout’s & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave. $15 advance, $20 at the door and can be purchased at Front Porch Music. 325-7161. Jack Ingram, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $23.50 to $33.50 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Operation Comedy with Matt and Troy, 8 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $20 plus fee; 21 & over only. vallitix.com or 3225200. World’s Largest Water Balloon Fight, Drillers vs. All, hosted by Bakersfield High School Band Boosters; with food, raffle prizes, dunk tank, carnival is from noon to 5 p.m., arena gates open at 5:30 p.m., balloons begin flying at 6 p.m., Yokuts Park, 4200 Empire Drive. $5. E-mail President@Drillerband.com. Bakersfield Speedway, Modifieds, Hobby Stocks, Mini Stocks, Mini Dwarfs, gates open at 4:30 p.m.; races begin at 6 p.m., Bakersfield Speedway, 5001 N. Chester Ave. $10; $5 ages 6-12; under 5 free. bakersfieldspeedway.com or call 393-3373. Summer Lecture Series: Archaeology, Up Close & Personal, on “Basin Religion and Animal Ceremonialism and Egyptian Mummies Uncovered,” 6 p.m., Tehachapi Museum, 310 S. Green St. $15. 822-8152. Ceramic Group Project Workshop, for items that will be entered into the Kern County Fair; 10 a.m., The Ceramic Shop, 2550 E. Belle Terrace, Suite 300. Free but registration required. 8341000. CSUB Men’s Soccer Alumni Game, 7 p.m., CSUB campus, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $4 to $10. 654-2583. Drag Racing, gates open at 3 p.m., Buttonwillow Raceway, 24551 Lerdo Highway, Buttonwillow. 7645333. Family Skate Night, 7 to 10 p.m., Rollerama West, 7850 Brimhall Road. $30 includes admission for four (two adults/two children), skate rental, one pizza and pitcher of soda. 589-7555. Free How-to-Work Workshops, Saturday classes: 10 to 11 a.m. “Decorative Painting Solutions”; 11 a.m. to noon “Do It Yourself Flooring Made Easy”; 1 to 2 p.m. “Small Bath Updates”; and Sunday class: 1 to 2 p.m. “Storage & Closet Organization Solutions”; Home Depot. homedepot.com or call 800-430-3376. 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.

Kids Free Day, last Saturday of every month, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 872-2256. Performance & "REACH" Mural Unveiling, local children create play and mural depicting every day challenges, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, 1000 S. Owens St. Free. 324-9000. Twilight at CALM, with a wildlife presentation, scavenger hunt, 5:30 to 8 p.m., CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. Regular admission prices apply; CALM members are free. calmzoo.org or 872-2256. Farmers markets: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Caffeine Supreme, on the lawn, corner of F and 20th streets. caffeinesupreme.com; 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St.; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., “Nuui Cunni” Native American Cultural Center, 2600 Highway 155, Lake Isabella. 760-549-0800. Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 97 Steak Dinner, with a DJ, 6 p.m., VFW Post #97, 5350 S. Union Ave. $10. 304-5654.

Sunday Bill Brannon Memorial Fundraiser Car Show, with food, DJ, vendor booths, trophies, 50/50 drawing and raffle, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Buttonwillow Park, Highway 58 and Meadow Street, Buttonwillow. $20 entry fee. All proceeds go toward Vanderbilt University Research for a cure in Bill Brannon’s name. 764-5498. CSUB Women’s Soccer vs. Loyola Marymount, 7 p.m., CSUB campus, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $4 to $10. 654-2583.

ART “Artistic Chaos” art exhibit, by appointment only, on display until Oct. 8, The Micro Gallery, 6300 Coffee Road. 301-3283. “Ebb and Flow Kern’s Vanishing Water” art exhibit, on display until Oct. 3, JP Jennings Gallery, 1700 Chester Ave. 3231622. “On the Road Again,” group art show on display through August, Bakersfield Mazda, 3201 Cattle Drive. 328-8000. All Media Class, by instructor Phyllis Oliver, all media welcome, with color theory stressed. For more information or to register, email pegolivert@ix.netcom.com or call 348-4717. Art classes, beginning watercolor, beginning drawing, advanced drawing and watercolor painters’ group, taught by Carol Bradshaw. Call or e-mail for details and enrollment. bradshawartist@earthlink.net or 760-376-6604. Basic Beading & Wire Wrapping Workshop, with Susi Klassen, private instruction or by appointment, The Bead Hut, 610 18th St. To schedule an appointment, call 324-0975 or 706-6490.

Beginning Oil Painting, with instructor Glen Jelletich, classes held 1 to 3 p.m. Mondays. Call 399-3707 for more information or to register. Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced Drawing, by instructor Nina Landgraff, series of five two-hour classes. Call for more information or to register. 304-7002. Framing Clinic, with Toni Lott, for artists who want to frame their work, began April 7, running noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays. Call 205-3488 for more information or to register. 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. Shirley Rowles, featured artist for August, Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. russosbooks.com or 6654686. The Art Center, 1817 Eye St., 869-2320; 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. “Spontaneous Expression with Paint,” an Art for Healing program of Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield; 9:30 to noon Friday, Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A streets. Free. mercybakersfield.org/art or to register, 324-7070. Ceramic Group Project Workshop, for items that will be entered into the Kern County Fair; 10 a.m. Saturday, The Ceramic Shop, 2550 E. Belle Terrace, Suite 300. Free but registration required. 834-1000. Free art classes, for homeschool parents, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. Call to reserve your spot. Moore’s Art Studio, 10205 Hurlingham Drive. 588-7769. Grand Opening Reception, with local and international artists, live music, wine, appetizers, 5 to 11 p.m. Saturday, La Galeria, 1414 High St., Delano. Visit yessy.com/maryselva25 or 4441564. “Mandala-Making as a Source of Healing & Wholeness,” an Art for Healing program of Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield; 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A streets. Free. mercybakersfield.org/art or to register, 324-7070.

“Once Upon a Mattress,” doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; doors open at 12:30 p.m., show at 2 p.m. Sunday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $50 to $55; show-only tickets $30. 325-6100. “The Killing Ghost,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Suggested donation $15 adults; $10 students/seniors. 327-PLAY. Auditions for “A Merry Christmas at Stars” (dancers) noon to 4 p.m., (singers) 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Stars School of Fine Arts, 1927 Eye St. 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 Magic of Frank Thurston,” 11 a.m. Saturday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $6. 587-3377.

THEATER

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. Ethel’s Old Corral Cafe, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Nightlife, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday; Still Kickin’, 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

“My Big Fat Oildale Wedding,” followed by the Vaudville Revue, “Everything and the Kitchen Sink — The Greatest 38 Shows of All Time,” 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; 2 p.m. matinee Sunday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $9 to $20. 587-3377.

MUSIC Acoustic Kern River Brewing Company, 13415 Sierra Highway, Kernville, 760-376-2337; Mike Fleming, 7:30 to 10 p.m. Friday.

Alternative Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St., 324-2557; Joey Romley & Friends, 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

Blues Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., jam session, 2 p.m. Sundays. 21 and over. myspace.com/vinnysbarandgrill blues/rock.

Classic Rock Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 3287560; Token Okies, 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Thursday. Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Really Big Midgets, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; Mike Montano Band, 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; The People’s Band, 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Comedy B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; with Just Another Hangover, Thursday. Doo Wop Diner, 1534 19th St., 327-4360; 9 to 11 p.m. Saturday. 21 & over only.

Country

Thursday, August 26, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; Two Timers Band, 9 p.m. Friday and 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday; Sunday Snake Oil, 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Country Club, 9:30 p.m. Friday. Tejon Club, 117 El Tejon Ave., 3921747; Crossroads, 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday.

Dancing Joaquin Squares, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Rasmussen Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5. 324-1390, 325-3086 or 3993658. 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. Mavericks Singles, ballroom and country dancing with music by Lost Highway, 6 to 9:15 p.m. Friday, Kern City Town Hall, 1003 Pebble Beach Drive. $6 member; $8 guest. 831-9241. 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 330-9616 for details. Scottish Country Dancing, with the Kern County Scottish Society, beginners welcome, 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays, Norris Road Veterans Hall, upstairs, 400 W. Norris Road. 822-3998. Whirlaways Square Dance Club, with caller Rick Hampton, 7 to 9:30 p.m. every Monday, Veteran’s Hall, 400 W. Norris Road. whirlaways.org or 398-3394. 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 Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; 7 p.m. Thursdays. 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; 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Free. Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774: with DJ Escandalosa in the Mixx, 8:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; 9:30 p.m. Saturday. B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Jazz Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday. Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway, 834-4433; Richie Perez, 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays. Live Jazz & Wine Bar, featuring Jazz Connection with Lawanda Smith and Mike Raney, along with 24 wines, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. 633-WINE Wine & Cheese Cellar, 695 Tucker Road., Suite C, Tehachapi, 822-6300; Richie Perez, 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday. Live Jazz & Wine Bar, featuring Jazz Connection with Paul Cierley and Pat O’Conell, along with 24 wines, 5 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. 633-WINE.

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 to 10 p.m. Thursday; beer pong and happy hour all day with karaoke 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday. Crossroads Pizzeria, 4200 New Stine Road, 397-5000; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday. Don Pour House, 4041 Fruitvale Ave., 589-9300; 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 9000 Ming Ave., 664-1400; 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursdays. karaoke. Perico Restaurant, 2660 Oswell St., Suite 133, 871-2001; 7 to 11 p.m. Thursdays. The Old River Monte Carlo, 9750 Taft Highway, 837-0250; 8 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. Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., 7 p.m. Thursdays. 21 and over. myspace.com/ vinnysbarandgrill. Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Casa Lopez, 8001 Panama Road, Lamont, 845-1000; 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday (country) and Saturday (Spanish). 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 Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; hosted by Ed Loverr, 9 p.m. to midnight Friday. 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. 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. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Wild West Entertainment, 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 Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; karaoke with host Ben Lara, 8 p.m. Tuesdays. 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. Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; 6 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday.

Latin/Salsa 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. Chencho’s Bar & Grill, 2201 V St., 327-0190; Salsa Sundays, with a DJ, 3 to 10 p.m., salsa lessons are offered at 6 p.m. Sundays. $5 after 6 p.m.

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.

Old School Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Al Garcia & the Rhythm Kings, 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. every Thursday. Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774; The Press featuring Benny and the Bunch, 8:30 p.m. Friday; Synergy featuring Joey Zaza “The Rockamole Kid,” 8:30 p.m. Saturday. The Bistro After Dark, 5105 California Ave., 323-3905; Old School Saturdays with Noe G, 10 p.m. every Saturday. Ladies free/$10 cover.

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; Road Doggs, 9 p.m. Friday. Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Elevation 406, 9 p.m. Friday. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; Tribute to Nickelback featuring Nickelband with vocalist Andrew Freeman and Andreas Fault, 9 p.m. Saturday. $4 cover.

techniques, abilities, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, McMurtrey Aquatic Center, 1325 Q St. $60 per month. www.bakersfieldswim.us or 8527430. Recreational Swim Team, for ages 5 to 18, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. or 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Bakersfield College, 1801 Panorama Drive. Open enrollment. 395-4663. 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.

Tuesday 8/31 “Mandala-Making as a Source of Healing & Wholeness,” an Art for Healing program of Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield; 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A streets. Free. mercybakersfield.org/art or to register, 324-7070. Sierra Club Conditioning Hikes, three to five miles, 7 p.m. Tuesdays, meet at corner of highways 178 and 184. 872-2432 or 873-8107.

Wednesday 9/1

UPCOMING EVENTS

Bargain Night, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Rollerama West, 7850 Brimhall Road. $5 per skater; free rental. 589-7555. CSUB Men’s Soccer vs. UC Santa Barbara, 7 p.m. Wednesday, CSUB campus, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $4 to $10. 654-2583. Farmers Market, 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Kern County Department of Public Health, 1800 Mt. Vernon Ave. 868-0328. Film Club, with Cody Meek, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Barnes & Noble, 4001 California Ave. 631-2575. First Wednesday, special events and refreshments, 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. $4 nonmembers. 323-7219. Food & Wine Pairing Nights, featuring six wines paired with a plate of small bites tied together for a delicious tasting theme, learn how food interacts with wine, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, now until Oct. 27, Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. $25 per person, per session. 633-WINE. Good Neighbor Day, local florist will be giving away over 20,000 roses, come pick up a dozen roses, keep one for yourself and give the rest away to others, beginning at 7 a.m. Wednesday, Log Cabin Florist, 800 19th St. 327-8646. Songwriters’ Showcase, hosted by Chuck Seaton and Billy Russell, 7 p.m. Wednesdays, The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road. 831-1413.

Monday 8/30

Thursday 9/2

Recreational Swim Team, yearround swim team, learn to develop swimming skills, strokes,

Asia, 8 p.m. Thursday, Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $15 to $45 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Rock remixes “Rock It Fridays,” 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. every Friday, DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 323-7111.

Ska/reggae B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; UFC fight at 7 p.m., Mento Buru with DJ Mikey at 9 p.m. Saturday. $10 includes dinner; $5 after fight.

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

Variety Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway, 834-4433; Shades of Grey, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Marriott Hotel at the Convention Center, 801 Truxtun Ave., 323-1900: In the Mixx with DJ Noe G., mixing all your feelgood music every Friday. 21 & over only. Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., Dance to Joe Loco, duet every Sunday, 2 to 5 p.m.