Bakersfield Californian 'Eye St. Entertainment / 9-23-10

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 23, 2010

Eye Street

Index Ralphie May . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Zombiewalk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Arts Alive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Book Signings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Where Are They Now . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Nature Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27-29

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

River one beautiful backdrop Couple opening grounds of home on Kern for theater performances

BY DIANNE HARDISTY Contributing writer dhardisty@bak.rr.com

I

t is so quiet and peaceful that you can hear the Kern River slapping against the shore, birds chirping in the trees and wildlife rustling in the bushes. A series of walkways and patios terrace the backyard as it slopes gently down to the water’s rushing edge.

This picturesque northeast Bakersfield setting, at the home of Timothy and Margaret Lemucchi, will feature a unique afternoon of live theater from 4 to 7 p.m.

Sunday.

Hosted by the Lemucchis and the Arts Council of Kern, the event will benefit five Bakersfield nonprofit theater companies.

Admission is $25 per person, $20 for ACK members.

Theater on the Kern will feature informal theatrical entertainment provided by Stars, Spotlight, The Empty Space, Bakersfield Music Theatre and Bakersfield Community Theatre. Guests will be treated to California wines, hors d’oeuvres and a spectacular Kern River sunset.

The goal of the event is to “audience build,” explained Margaret Lemucchi, an Arts Council board member and a supporter of live theater. Performances by the theater companies will highlight the diversity and talent offered to audiences in Bakersfield.

Proceeds from ticket sales will be used to purchase advertising in The Californian to support a six-month publicity campaign.

On Fridays and Saturdays during the campaign, a listing of theater performances will appear in the newspaper’s entertainment sections.

“We are so fortunate to have so much live theater in Bakersfield,” said Lemucchi, emphasizing the need to focus attention on the offerings. “We have so many talented people.”

Laura Wolfe with the Arts Council explained that “with the number of entertainment options people have, we want them to put live theater at the top of their list.” The event also is an effort to encourage the five nonprofit theater companies to work together to “audience build.”

“When you expose people to the arts, their interest grows,” said Alex Neal, marketing director for Spotlight Theater.

Neal noted that it is unique for a community the size of Bakersfield to have five non-profit live theater companies. Most cities of similar size would have just two.

“But we have a lot of talented people and they have a love of the arts.”

Theater on the Kern is more than a fundraiser, Neal said, explaining the event

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

The backyard of Timothy and Margaret Lemucchi. The couple will be hosting an arts event benefitting local theater on Sunday.

Theater on the Kern When: 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday Where: Timothy and Margaret Lemucchi home, 6501 Uplands of the Kern Drive (three miles east of Gordon’s Ferry Bridge, along Round Mountain Road) Admission: $25; $20 for Arts Council of Kern members Reservations: Call the Arts Council of Kern at 324-9000. Credit cards are accepted.

Performances by five live theater companies:

The river terrace in the Lemucchi garden offers a fantastic view of the Kern River.

is an opportunity for people to experience the wide range of entertainment they will find on local stages.

Lemucchi likens the afternoon’s performances to a “theater in the round,” where actors from the five theater companies will entertain and mingle with the crowd.

Guests will also be encouraged to wander the 2.5-acre grounds surrounding the

Lemucchi home in the gated Uplands of the Kern community, three miles east of Gordon’s Ferry Bridge, along Round Mountain Road.

The Lemucchis purchased the 4,000square-foot home at 6501 Uplands of the Kern Drive four years ago. It was built in the late 1990s by Bakersfield builder Jack Jost.

Before moving in, the Lemucchis spent two Please see PAGE 17

Stars: Hope and Bobby sing the love song from “Urinetown” Spotlight: The cast presents the finale from “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” The Empty Space: Selections from the “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” Bakersfield Music Theatre: Billy Flynn gives you the old razzle from “Chicago” Bakersfield Community Theater: Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde, and Emma and Lucy sing a medley from “Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical,” “What Streak of Madness,” “Alive,” and “In His Eyes”

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Thursday, September 23, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Concert association shows off range of musical talent

BY CAMILLE GAVIN

2010-2011 CONCERT SERIES

Contributing columnist

Versatility is the key word for programs presented by the Bakersfield Community Concert Association and the proof is in the schedule it’s offering for the 2010-11 season.

It begins Monday with The Lowe Family, a multitalented group of performers — all related to each other — who sing, dance and play a surprising variety of instruments.

“They just do everything — all kinds of dancing and singing — and they play all kinds of instruments — even bagpipes and marimbas,” said Bob Smith, the association’s artist selection coordinator.

Smith has seen the nine-member group perform and said their show will include classical music, Broadway show tunes, jazz, bluegrass, six-part harmony and gospel music, as well as various kinds of dances, including Irish step-dancing.

Robert Lowe, the head of the family, once played lead trumpet with Synthesis, the Brigham Young University jazz band, according to the group’s website. Recently, the Lowe family appeared with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir on a national radio and television broadcast.

Another facet of Monday’s concert gives local high school students an opportunity to interact with The Lowe Family, said Bee Barmann, coordinator of the association’s Student Outreach Program.

On the day of the concert, members of the family group will work with vocal students at Bakersfield High School. That evening, the school’s 22-member Chamber Singers, led by Christopher Borges, will perform in the lobby before the show and will sing onstage with the Lowes during the concert.

The Lowe Family concert on Monday is the first of eight programs to be presented by Bakersfield Community Concert Association in 2010-11. Also scheduled are: Quartetto Gelato, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 20 — The group includes Peter De Sotto, an operatic tenor who also sings Italian folk songs; Alexander Sevastian, an awardwinning accordionist; cellist Elizabeth McLellan; and Colin Maier, whose principal instrument is the oboe but who also plays the five-string banjo, guitar and harmonica.

Masters of Harmony, 3 p.m. Dec. 5 — a program of Christmas music by a chorus made up of more than 100 men.

Franc D’Ambrosio, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 12 — The popular tenor is making a return appearance. His program this time around reflects his roots. It’s titled “I’ll Be Seeing YOUZ ... A Bronx Boy’s Musical Perspective of WWII.” 100 Years of Broadway, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24 — Produced by Neil Berg, a wellknown composer and lyricist, the show features actor-singers and a backup band performing scenes from Broadway musicals.

Funding for the outreach program comes from donations made by association members. So far about $8,600 has been donated this year, said Diane Ackley, treasurer. Barmann said the donated money is used on an annual basis to provide a stipend to music programs in the schools and to hire a visiting artist to perform at a local school.

The Diamonds, 7:30 p.m. March 17 — Nostalgic tunes in four-part harmony in the style of a popular singing group of the 1950s.

Jim Witter: The Piano Men, 3 p.m. April 10 — Hit songs by Billy Joel and Elton John are the focus of Witter, who sings and plays the piano, backed up by musicians on the bass, guitar, keyboards and drums.

“The Mikado,” 7 p.m., May 5 — This comic opera with music by Arthur Sullivan and lyrics by W.S. Gilbert was first performed in England in 1885 and has retained its popularity over the years. This production is presented by the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players.

Season memberships are sold only as a package: $60 for adults; $30 for fulltime college students; and $20 for students high school age or younger. CCA has an open seating policy and no seats are reserved. Doors open one hour before each concert. The association does not sell single tickets for individual concerts.

However, season memberships can be purchased in the theater lobby before The Lowe Family concert on Monday. For information, call 589-2478.

The Lowe Family When: 7:30 p.m. Monday Where: Theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: Must buy season pass (see accompanying story for prices) Information: 589-2478

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

At the riverfront home of Margaret and Timothy Lemucchi, there is no shortage of flowers.

years remodeling the interior and redesigning the grounds, using natural materials and local vendors, including Ray De La Cruz Masonry, Hard Rock Concrete Designs, Valley Granite & Tile, and contractor Robert Love.

The father-son team of Charlie and Micah Harwell at Masterpiece Waterfalls designed the gardens and its two waterfalls. Charlie Harwell is a prominent landscape design artist, whose expertise was on display during several Bakersfield Business Conferences. Bill Smith Landscaping designed and maintains the flower beds. Statuary of wildlife accents the gardens.

Lemucchi explained that the grounds were designed to include the natural terrain and features native California plants and trees, including a 100-year-old cottonwood at the entryway. Walkways, patios, lighting, flower beds, waterfalls and terracing were designed “to enhance the view of the river as a main feature.”

“It is quiet and peaceful out here,” she said, explaining that the home’s many windows provide spectacular sunrise

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

With four levels — the upper, middle, lower and river terraces — there is plenty of room to entertain.

and sunset views. “At night, you can see the stars. Even in bad weather, it is beautiful.”

The Lemucchis have added solar panels and solar shingles to provide a portion of the electricity for their home and grounds.

The live entertainment, refreshments and tour of the grounds promise to make Theater on the Kern a unique afternoon experience.

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 23, 2010

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Eye Street “I think it’s my best work that I’m doing right now and ever done. I’m not doing anything older than six months old.”

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omedian Ralphie May believes in consumer freshness.

Appearing tonight at the Fox Theater, the funny big man promises fans all-new material, and more.

“I think it’s my best work that I’m doing right now and ever done,” said May via telephone of his latest “Too Big To Fail” tour. “I’m not doing anything older than six months old.”

Still recovering from a nasty flu, May is surprisingly upbeat. Traveling nonstop since July with only a few days off between shows, he offers to prove his resiliency by sharing a comedic grossout.

“I’ve only been off three days from performing, and lately I felt like I was doing that P90X on the toilet with crunches, and bowel confusion.”

Ewww …

Introduced to audiences on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” and VH1’s “Celebrity Fit Club,” the Chattanooga, Tenn., native specializes in the socially taboo. Give or take a few pounds o’ jokes, nothing is off-limits in his act.

“I’m talkin’ about the Arizona law, the ground zero mosque, Barack Obama, a lot of personal stuff about me and the wife and kids …”

Raised in a traditional Southern household, the 38-year-old studied the work of his idols — Richard Pryor, Bill Hicks and Dave Chappelle.

Describing himself as the “class clown” growing up (and out), his first big break came at age 17 after he won an area talent show with a top prize of opening for another of his heroes, the late Sam Kinison.

“These are all guys that I still learn from today,” he said. “I would say I’ve always been politically incorrect, racially insensitive and culturally controversial, but funny.

Originally portraying himself as an urban street dweller who could speak his mind on a variety of topics, lately he’s taken a more country approach to his stand-up. Not to worry though, this mountain living “mouth of the South” is no softie when the lights go down.

Asked about his common use of the “N” word onstage, especially in these sensitive times, May believes the power lies solely in the word’s presentation. While many might disagree, it certainly hasn’t hurt May’s popularity.

“The current strategy of never saying the ‘N’ word hasn’t gotten rid of the word, it’s only given it more strength.

People aren’t being practical about it.

People want to get rid of the hate

PHOTO COURTESY OF RALPHIE MAY

Originally portraying himself as an urban street dweller who could speak his mind on a variety of topics, Ralphie May has lately taken a more country approach to his stand-up.

Comedian Ralphie May When: 8 p.m. today Where: Fox Theater, 2001 H St. Admission: $29.50 Information: 324-1369

simultaneously with the word. Just treat it like any other word. Don’t underuse it, overuse it and then it will get out of our vernacular. If it doesn’t have any impact, then it can’t hurt anyone. So by using the words in a way that’s creative, they cease having that much power.”

So how does he feel about Dr. Laura Schlessinger’s infamous radio rant that included explicit use of the word?

Did she deserve to be criticized?

“She made her point and went over too much. She was also very curt about it and dismissive of the moment and disrespectful to the caller, just

beating her up. The caller was talking about a real issue with her neighbors,” he said. “When you come out and see me, you’re coming to laugh so you kinda open your mind up. I’ve said stuff in my act I couldn’t say in common conversation. But in comedy, when I control the context of the word, and you’re open to it, then you can see it for what it really is … Not that big of a deal.”

May plans on a return to TV in an upcoming pilot being developed through Comedy Central. In it, May and fellow comedian Lavell Crawford are co-owners of a barbecue restaurant. Lavell, who is African-American, plays May’s brother in the show. Hoping for a hit, May is ready once again ready to push comedy waistlines.

“It’s probably one of the most inflammatory things I’ve ever written.

We’re gonna catch a lot of hell for this, but we think it’ll be funny.”

Thursday, September 23, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Afternoon of the living dead Zombiewalk event will benefit area animals

BY ALLIE CASTRO Californian staff writer acastro@bakersfield.com

F

or those out there who are under the notion that zombies are all about chasing people and eating brains, prepare to think twice. The most charitable members of Bakersfield’s “undead” population will be teaming up with OKRA (Orphan Kitten Rescue and Adoption) and The Alpha Canine Sanctuary for Bakersfield’s first ever Zombiewalk.

Bakersfield’s Zombiewalk coordinator Jennifer Sorkin explains that zombiewalks “consist of people from all walks of life gathering together in a designated location.

They come dressed as zombies and it’s typically to benefit a charitable cause. This sort of thing has been done across the country.

It’s not the most popular event as of yet; it’s kind of an underground thing, but it’s gaining in popularity.”

Interested zombies show up to the designated area bringing with them one of the recommended items for donation. For this particular walk, participants will be meeting at Stockdale Fashion Plaza and will be asked to bring an item such as dog food, cat food, collars, or treats, among other things, which will be donated to the two organizations. The walk down Stockdale Highway will then commence, and passers-by will be treated to a free display of performance art, while the zombies draw attention to their charitable cause.

The event follows a strict set of guidelines in order to maintain its integrity, and there are rules to be followed and security to help guide the herd. For instance, there is absolutely no drinking or swearing allowed as this is an all-ages event, and zombies are instructed not to scare anyone or touch anyone or their property while participating in the walk.

A zombie dress code also is enforced.

However, participants don’t have to be as elaborate as the zombie-bride-with-prosthetic-limbs costume that Sorkin (a specialeffects makeup artist) will be wearing.

“When you become a zombie it’s probably easiest to think of an occupation that you can turn into a zombie,” Sorkin said.

“You can be a zombie teacher, waitress, construction worker … or you can also go with different famous people if you want to

Bakersfield Zombiewalk Benefits Orphan Kitten Rescue and Adoption and The Alpha Canine Sanctuary When: meet between 5 and 5:30 p.m., walk begins at 6 p.m. Saturday Where: Stockdale Fashion Plaza, near In-N-Out and Sports Chalet Admission: Free, though donations of needed items are encouraged More information: For guidelines and more, visit the Bakersfield Zombiewalk page on Facebook or e-mail bakersfieldzombiewalks@gmail.com.

go that route.”

Whatever your costume choice may be, Sorkin advises, “Find clothes that are ratty.

Whatever you wear should be disposable, (something) that you’re able to dirty up and maybe throw some fake blood on.”

She also says that she’s willing to help out with anyone who needs ideas for zombie makeup, and apply zombie makeup for those willing to pay a small fee for materials.

While in costume, the zombies are instructed to stay in character for the duration of the walk. This means all the mumbling, drooling, and dragging of limbs one can muster.

Sorkin hopes that the walk will catch on enough in Bakersfield to make it a biannual event. She hopes to hold the next walk in April to benefit the Bakersfield Food Bank, and another next December to benefit Toys for Tots.

Perhaps the hardest aspect of putting together the event, Sorkin said, is trying to find businesses that are willing to support “zombies trying to do charitable things.”

However, she hopes that once people see that the goal is to raise awareness for various causes, they’ll be more willing to jump onboard.

For this event, Monster Mini Golf has volunteered support and sponsorship.

Sorkin says that after having attended zombiewalks in Pasadena and Hollywood, she thought Bakersfield would be the perfect place to hold a similar event.

“I started (doing) the zombiewalks three or four years ago and have been doing them for several years, and thought Bakersfield could benefit from something like that.

We’re a big town that really has a big heart and loves to give.”

PARTY AT THE PADRE Party at the Padre, being billed as “The Grand Opening Celebration of the Year,” is from 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 30.

There will be a red carpet VIP greeting and house specialties, hors d’oeuvres, champagne, cocktails, beer and wine as well as casino-style gaming. Music will be provided by Dena Reynolds. Individual

tickets are $125, but other sponsorships are available. The event’s proceeds benefit Children’s Medical Center of Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. Purchase tickets at the Padre Hotel, 1702 H St., or contact Sue Benham of the Bakersfield Memorial Hospital Foundation, 327-4647, ext. 1829 or susan.benham@chw.edu

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 23, 2010

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Paint a picture, save a program Teen creations will help support club

GO & DO Boys & Girls Club Artfest 2010

A

rtwork to be auctioned at the annual Artfest dinner on Saturday evening has a twofold purpose.

It raises money for the Boys & Girls Club and it helps the youthful artists feel like stake holders in the organization, said Ricki Foster, events director.

“Our club members paint these pieces, then donate them to the club to support their own program,” she said. “We believe this teaches the children about giving back and working to support their own way.”

The signature piece for this year’s event is titled “Blue Bottle,” a boldly colored still life created by a boy named Sean, age 17. His is one of about a dozen paintings and ceramic pieces chosen for the auction. All were done by club members.

“They have tremendous pride when their art is sold,” Foster said, adding that the young artists feel their work is validated when someone loves it enough to buy it and take it home.

The evening includes a barbecue dinner and wine tasting. Beer will be available. Also to be auctioned are items contributed by local merchants.

A new feature this year is called “Kids Hangout.” It’s an opportunity for parents who are attending Artfest to leave their children, age 4 and older, at the club’s nearby Stockdale Club, 5207 Young St., Suite 200.

Hours for the child care are 6 to 10:15 p.m. Saturday.

Cost is $10 per child.

When: 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday Where: Moorea Banquet Centre, 8700 Swigert Court, Suite 109 Admission: $60 Information: 325-3730

Late Night with Christopher Durang When: 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: $5 Information: 327-PLAY

PHOTO COURTESY OF RICKI FOSTER

“Blue Bottle” is the signature piece for the Artfest fundraiser.

‘Vessels’ exhibit

Pizza will be served.

Christopher Durang satire Two short plays by Christopher Durang will be presented this weekend as part of the Late Night series at The Empty Space.

One is “The Actor’s Nightmare,” which could be called “fledgling improv.” It’s about a man who finds himself onstage with no idea what his lines are or even what the play is about. The other, “For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls,” is a parody of Tennessee Williams’ drama “The Glass Menagerie.”

Justin Thompson directs both plays.

Visual Art Festival winners “Vessels” turned out to be a popular theme open to wide interpretation by the artists who entered the 2010Visual Arts Festival at the Bakersfield Museum of Art. Artists were invited to use their imaginations to explore and define what a vessel is. The only hard-and-fast rule was that the artwork had to measure 12-by-12

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF BAKERSFIELD MUSEUM OF ART

The Bakersfield Museum of Art’s Visual Arts Festival winner was “Coffee Break at Kern County” by Prapat Sirinavarat.

inches or less, said Vikki Cruz, curator.

More than 150 entries were submitted for the competition. Of those, 63 pieces from 44 artists made the cut. Aron Wiesenfeld judged the collection and announced the winners at a reception on Sept. 9. In making the presentations the artist said he was impressed by the quality of the work and said choosing the winners wasn’t an easy task.

“Not only was there a lot of really good work,” Wiesenfeld said, “there was such a variety of styles and mediums that it was like choosing between apples and oranges.”

First place, and a $800 prize, went to Prapat Sirinavarat for “Coffee Break at Kern County,” a framed piece centered by a clear cylinder that contains a gardenlike scene. Barely visible behind the container is an elephant.

Kathy Kalson was awarded second place, and $500, for “Garden

Spirits,” a porcelain vase that is elegant in its simplicity and notable for the gracefulness of its long, narrow neck.

Will Litchfield’s amusing photo collage, “Conduit,” took third place and $200. Highly detailed, it’s a garden scene showing a human figure with an eagle’s head.

The figure is holding a very long garden hose.

Honorable mentions were given to Heidi Rufeh for “In the Arena,” a surrealistic encaustic that appears to be either a rodeo rider or a bullfighter; Philip Carey, “Marsha and I in the Internet Camp,” a whimsical collage; Kevin Hardin for “Swimming Lesson in the Lake,” a peaceful scene which looks like it’s set in Hart Park; and Ruby Lee Valliant for “The Nest of Creation,” a large goblet that holds an infant rising from a seashell with rosebuds and other painted objects decorating the exterior.

The “Vessels” exhibit can be seen in the Cunningham Gallery,

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday to Friday, noon to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday through Nov. 21 Where: Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. Admission: $5; $4, seniors; $2, students; free for members Information: 323-7219

the museum’s large central gallery, through Nov. 21. All of the work is for sale and proceeds will be used for various museum education programs.

No Shakespeare in Shafter Bob Kempf, artistic director of The Empty Space, said in an email that the previously announced Oct. 1 and 2 performances of “As You Like It” in Shafter have been canceled.

“We unexpectedly ran into some proverbial red tape, so it’s a no-go,” he said, adding the Bakersfield performances of the Shakespeare comedy continue at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday at the Empty, with an added performance at the Oak Street playhouse on Oct. 1.

21

Thursday, September 23, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Writer returns to scene of the crime: Bakersfield

BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer

O

ne of the best things “A Bad Day’s Work” has going for it is something you rarely find in a murder mystery — namely, humor.

No heavy stuff in this one. And even though it involves a murder, there’s no real violence once the victim gets loaded into the coroner’s van.

What makes this book a winner is the honest-to-goodness funniness offered by first-time author Nora McFarland. Hers is a refreshing kind of McFarland humor and it’s the key element that drives this fast-paced story about a feisty young TV photographer who solves the crime.

Most of the funny stuff comes by way of Lilly Hawkins, the irrepressible and unpredictable main character who’s in danger of being fired as a “shooter,” or news photographer, at a fictional television station in Bakersfield. Yes, Bakersfield.

McFarland, who now lives in Macon, Ga., knows our town, and judging from her book, you’d swear she was a native. Not so. She was born in Portland, Ore., but has lived much of her life in California and is a graduate of UC Santa Cruz.

“I'm not from Bakersfield, and only lived there three years, but loved it and often talk with my husband about moving back,” McFarland said in an email. “I hope that love comes through in my writing. I had so much fun using my favorite places as locations. My biggest regret is that I didn't get to have Lilly eat at Milt's. That was always my favorite place to get a tuna melt.”

The story begins when Lilly is called out in the middle of a cold, fogshrouded night to cover a murder. The

Book signing Who: Nora McFarland, author of “A Bad Day’s Work” When: 2 p.m. Saturday Where: Barnes & Noble, 4001 California Ave. Information: 631-2575

victim’s body has been found in an orchard on Weedpatch Highway somewhere between Arvin and Lamont. It involves a greedy landowner, hijackers, dirty cops, troubled family relations — Lilly’s and those of other families — an off-and-on romance with a news anchor, and a skirmish with a couple of seedy characters from the wrong side of town bent on kidnapping her.

The things that make Lilly so likeable are also what make her so vulnerable. She’s cocky, persistent, slightly irreverent, and never gives up without a fight. There were times when I felt like telling her to hold back a little, she seemed that real to me.

Which brings us to another contradiction. Even though Lilly is a petite 5foot-4, she wears size 10 work boots on the job and is a heck of a kicker.

McFarland actually was a TV photographer for KGET-TV, Channel 17. At the time she was the only female shooter in town.

That experience, along with the fact her husband, Jeff Ofgang, was an executive producer at KBAK-TV, Channel 29, at the same time she was at Channel 17, gives her characters, and the story itself, a certain authenticity.

Despite Lilly’s unconventional behavior, there’s a believable quality about the inner workings of a newsroom — the pressure of deadlines, the horror of finding your videotape’s been erased, worries about ratings and scooping the competition, and dealing with the demands of the colorful characters who inhabit newsrooms.

I got acquainted with McFarland when she was customer relations manager at Barnes & Noble on California, which is where she worked after leaving her TV job. She went out of her way to be supportive to local authors, myself included.

McFarland will be at the book store on Saturday to sign copies of her book, the first in a series featuring Lilly Hawkins. The author has a three-book contract with Touchstone, a division of Simon & Schuster.

The second one, due to be released in 2011, has Lilly covering a wildfire in the mountains near Sequoia National Forest that involves the discovery of a body in a nearby lake. McFarland said she originally wanted to set the story in Lake Isabella but felt it necessary to create a fictional location to make the story work.

Or as Lilly might say, as she does in a scene in “A Bad Day’s Work”: “I’m sure we can work this out without involving the authorities.”

BUCK OWENS’ BIOGRAPHER WILL APPEAR AT RUSSO’S From a Russo’s media release: Tennessee-based author Eileen Sisk has, if nothing else, hit a nerve not only in Bakersfield, but throughout the country music world.

Her new biography on Buck Owens has been called everything from “fantastic” to “a hatchet job” (read The Californian’s review, available at Bakersfield.com).

Indeed, some of the reviews are as colorful as Buck's trademark tri-colored guitar.

Obviously not one to shy away from controversy, Sisk will come to Owens’ home turf when she signs “Buck Owens: The Biography” at Russo's Books at 2 p.m. Oct. 2. Russo’s Books is located in The Marketplace at 9000 Ming Ave.

Eileen Sisk, author of “Buck Owens: The Biography,” will appear at Russo’s Books on Oct. 2.

PHOTO COURTESY OF IPG

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22

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 23, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Soulajar raises $5,000 in one night!

Band’s crowdfunding campaign a success

T

hey pulled it off! As mentioned last month in The Lowdown, local band Soulajar launched a campaign to help get its new CD project funded through Kickstarter.com in a program called “crowdfunding.”

This is the way it works: Bands that sign up must first pitch a project to the website for screening. If approved, the band can then set up an artist “pledge page” where fans and supporters can donate money, in return for production credits or a nifty gift. Setting a 45-day deadline in which to raise $10,000, Soulajar promoted the cause incessantly. When I first heard of their plan, I’ll admit I had no idea this thing could work.

Soulajar drummer Brian Boozer shared a little of how it all went down.

“We did the initial e-blast announcement with the video, and everybody talked about it,” he said. “Thirty days in, it started getting kind of stale with not much interest. People would say they wanted to donate, but we had to remind about the deadline.”

Periodically checking the pledge page for updates, I noticed that by 6 p.m. Sunday, they’d reached a little more than $5,000.

But by the Monday morning deadline, they had surpassed their goal with more than $10,100 to their name. While Boozer can’t reveal the identity behind the noticeably high single $2,500 donation giving them a final push, the donor will be listed on the band’s

PHOTO COURTESY OF OZOMATLI

Grammy Award-winner Ozomatli will be at Fishlips on Oct. 14.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLLY CARLYLE

Soulajar, from left: Greg Bettis, Brian Boozer, Jim Ranger and Ryan Fergon.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Preview of Bakersfield Oktoberfest at Stramler Park Oct. 2 In-studio performance by The Hollow Preview of Luigi's 100th anniversary celebration on Oct. 3

CD jacket.

“We actually had two pretty big backers throw down some pretty big pledges those last few hours, and I saw a lot of names I didn’t recognize on the final list. It was really cool to know they believed in the project.”

The band hopes to finally have “Pipe Dream” complete and in the hands of fans sometime in early 2011. Until then, look out for

some upcoming local shows leading up to a big party.

“We’ll probably play during October, but really our focus is to put together a smashing CD release show.”

Congratulations, fellas! You made me a believer … for now.

Shows this season Autumn is officially here, and with that I bring show news …

Currently on sale are tickets for worldbeat mish-mashers Ozomatli, appearing at Fishlips on Oct. 14. If you haven’t caught one of the band’s incredibly energetic live shows, you don’t want to miss out on this. I first met these guys in the mid-’90s when my band, Mento Buru, was on a double bill at L.A.’s Viper Room on Sunset Boulevard for Cinco de Mayo. We had no idea what to expect from Ozomatli until the band hit the stage and our jaws dropped. Marching in with a Brazilian-style drum and dance line that led us outside to Sunset and back, it was a nonstop party. A month later we invited them 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 X

Legendary punk band X will perform at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace on Dec. 27.

perform at the Bakersfield Reggae Fest as a last-minute addition.

They showed up crammed in one small van with horns, guitars, drums, turntables and all. Bakersfield ate it up, and they returned the following year a couple of days after being named “A Band To Watch” in the Los Angeles Times. By now, some of you might recall catching them on Santana’s Supernatural tour, with The Dave Matthews Band, Coachella, or maybe before the riot outside the 2000 Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles. It’s been 14 years, six albums and four Grammys since their last Bako appearance, so plan on a sweaty reunion.

Advance tickets are $24 and can be purchased through Vallitix.com, or at Fishlips, 1517 18th St. For more info, call 324-2557.

Also coming to town for a huge post-Christmas show is Southern California punk rock Americana legends X on Dec. 27 at Buck

Owens’ Crystal Palace. As excited as I am for the Ozo show, I’m even more pumped that X will be on the same stage that the mighty Buck performed on for years. Back with all original members — John Doe, Exene, Billy Zoom, and D.J. Bonebrake — what better way to say “adios” to 2010? It’s also the 30th anniversary of their album “Los Angeles,” produced by The Doors’ Ray Manzarek. Need more convincing? Ticket prices range from $24 to $18, and are also available through Vallitix.com or at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd.

But wait, there’s more! Bakersfield Oktoberfest returns on Oct. 2, along with Rocktoberfest featuring The Deftones on Oct. 13, both at Stramler Park. Keep up with all these shows and more at Bakotopia.com.

Matt’s Pick Three Chord Whore and Expose at Vinny’s, 2700 S. Union Ave., 9 p.m. Saturday. $5. 835-7444 Riot chick punkers Three Chord Whore are the only all-female band in Bako. They’re always a blast to see live, especially when lead vocalist Darcie Blake is in a funny mood, which is most of the time. Shantell Waldo is one energetic drummer, and you can’t mess with guitarist Heather Mercer, who is frighteningly good on their classic “Nerve Damage.”

Opening rock act Expose is new to the scene, and not to be confused with the ’80s freestyle girl-group.

23

Thursday, September 23, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

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Eye Street

832-5782 1304 Wible Road

In Business Since 1974

Kern native making a name on stage back East

BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing columnist

B

akersfield native Leia Espericueta came to the attention of many local theater buffs recently when she was mentioned in a favorable review of “Richard III” in the New York Times.

Along with the review was a photo showing the actress, portraying Lady Anne, in a scene with John Douglas Thompson, star of the Shakespeare & Co. production.

Those are notable achievements for any actor, novices as well as veterans.

One person who is pleased, but not surprised, to see Espericueta’s upward path in theater is Anita DuPratt, retired Cal State Bakersfield theater arts professor.

“Leia was one of my favorite students,” said DuPratt. “What I liked about her is that she never held back.

She’s always had what it takes — not only the talent but the intellectual smarts — to make it in this crazy business. She’s done everything right, made all the right decisions.”

Espericueta expressed her thoughts about DuPratt during a phone interview from Lenox, Mass., where Shakespeare & Co. is based.

“Anita was my mentor as an undergraduate; she really took me under her wing,” the Shafter High School graduate said. “She was always interested in everything I was doing and always there to help and guide me.”

While at CSUB, Espericueta had major roles in several productions and also appeared at The Empty Space.

Incidentally, her first exposure to Shakespeare was in a drama class at Shafter High. Her teacher was Brian Sivesind, principal founder of The Empty Space, who now is affiliated

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEIA ESPERICUETA

Leia Espericueta is currently appearing in the Shakespeare & Co. production of “Richard III.”

with Spotlight Theatre.

In addition to theater, she was active in sports, running track, jumping hurdles and playing tennis. In fact, it was a tennis scholarship that brought her to CSUB. She still stays in good shape and that’s a plus, especially when doing a scene like the one photographed by the New York Times.

“That scene is so demanding, emotionally and physically,” Espericueta said, noting that at one point she and Thompson, as Richard, struggle over a sword. “He has killed my husband and father-in-law and now he tries to woo me. She comes from hatred and loathing — has put a curse on anyone who marries him — but ends up succumbing to his charm, all in that one scene.”

The show opened on July 2 and

closed Sept. 5; she appeared in 30 performances of “Richard” and also had a small part in “A Winter’s Tale.”

“It’s invigorating; it’s never the same show twice,” she said. “And I think that’s beautiful.”

Espericueta got her master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin in Madison in 2009 and plans to remain in the Midwest for some time to come because, as she said, there’s a lot of theater activity in that area.

Her parents, Shafter residents LeRoy and Frances Espericueta, at first were reluctant to encourage her to pursue a career in theater. Yet Leia understands their feelings.

“Many parents would feel the same way — it’s very insecure and scary because you never know what’s next,” Leia said. “I think they’re coming around, though. It took a while but they’re on board with it now.”

At present, she’s devoted to live theater and is scheduled to appear in a production of “In the Next Room” that opens Nov. 10 in Madison.

“Theater is really the actor’s medium,” she said. “At any moment, someone is looking at you whether you’re in the center of the stage or a lowly servant with no lines way off in a corner.

With TV and movies, you (the audience) only see what the director wants you to see.”

Even so, Espericueta has an open door policy about performing in other kinds of media but is realistic about her chances.

“My curves are made for the stage,” Espericueta said. “I’d never say never to TV or film, but I’d have to lose some 20 pounds at the very least, to be viable. That’s just the reality of the situation. To not acknowledge that would be lying to myself.”

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‘Do the Math’ launches its ninth season WINE TASTING

I

t may not appear in the top 10 of the Nielsen television ratings, but for students struggling with arithmetic in Kern County, “Do the Math” is a big hit. The show, which airs on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, starts its ninth season Tuesday.

It airs on Bright House Networks Channel 15 and also may be viewed as live streaming video at dothemathonline.net.

Certificated math teachers will be taking calls from students and working problems live over the phone and on TV from 3:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through the semester. Dial the Do the Math help lines, 636-4357 and

toll free (866) 636-6284, from 3:30-5:30 p.m., to have problems solved over the phone.

Some callers will have their problems worked live on TV between 4 and 5 p.m. Students may also view the program live or review archives of past programs on the Internet by visiting dothemathonline.net.

“Do the Math” originates from the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office, where it was developed. All instruction and tutoring adheres to California Department of Education curriculum standards. The program also includes fun features and contests.

— Information taken from a Kern County Superintendent of Schools media release

Friday - September 24th, 2010 5:30 - 8:00pm

Join us for: 15 - 20 Fine Wines Gourmet Appetizers Gourmet Cheese And Fun! A portion of the proceeds to benefit

OF KERN COUNTY

THE CALIFORNIAN

Math tutors Michael Cushine, right, and Claudia Pagano help students with their homework problem on the “Do The Math” television set.

Cost: $25 per person, $5 wine glass deposit 4809 Stockdale Hwy 661.834.5522

24

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 23, 2010

ER

IN 3D!

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Eye Street

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Enjoy Improv for a good cause at Desi Cafe

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

B Terry & ’s Charlotte

Fall Special

Buy 1 Dinner & Get 1

FREE

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

STEAK HOUSE 2515 F Street • 322-9910

Fri & Sat, 5-10:30

Dine In Only Expires 10-31-10 Maximum value of $10.95 only. One coupon per table or party. Not valid with any other offers or Holidays.

Terry & ’s Charlotte

Fall Special

Buy 1 Lunch & Get 1

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

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Fri & Sat, 5-10:30

akersfield’s Buddha Lounge at Desi Cafe will play host to an evening of improvisational comedy and fundraising Saturday night.

Hosted by Kern Assistive Technology Center of Bakersfield, the Comedy For Charity event will feature a special performance by local comedy troupe Center for Improv Advancement. All funds raised will go toward financing operating costs of a new center designed with full accessibility in mind for people living with disabilities.

According to KATC founding director Aaron Markovits, there are more than 80,000 people living with disabilities in Bakersfield. Founded in 2001, KATC was formed to help such individuals lead independent lives, offering services and education. But to stay active in the community, funds are always needed.

“We live in such a generous city, where people care about people with needs,” he said. “One of the challenges we face is being in a rural area. Many services aren’t as readily available as in larger cities.”

Helping make life a little easier where needed, Markovits described the center’s clients as being no differ-

Comedy For Charity When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Buddha Lounge, inside Desi Café, 4837 Panama Lane Suite B2 Admission: $10 - $15 Information: 861-1346

ent from the average home buyer, looking to make their house a home.

“There’s no place in Bakersfield where someone with a disability can look at what they need to live easier,” he said. “We’d like to offer that, and show them about having cabinets low enough to reach built, roll-in showers for people in wheelchairs, outside ramps, and much more.”

Described as the “Universal Design Principle,” Markovits detailed some of the other examples of technological advances that aid in making a residence accessible.

“There are doors wide enough for wheelchairs, easy access for the blind, bathrooms to easily get in and out, and if a house is two stories, you can even have a lift added. It could also be used by the general public, making it universal.”

One of the sites Markovits says they’ve been offered as a home for the

new center is the historic Jastro House at 1811 20th St. The landmark’s current owners would like to donate the home to KATC, Markovits said. The catch: The organization must come up with funds to move the building and a place to put it.

“The owners would like to give it to us if we can move it,” he said of the two-story structure, which was moved to its present location from 19th Street in 1917. “Right now we’re speaking with various lot owners to see if it’s something we can feasibly do. But even if that deal doesn’t work out, we’re going to have a place downtown for people to see in the future, no doubt about that.”

Markovits said tickets for Saturday’s event, which will include a prize raffle, are selling briskly. Estimating total cost of the building project to reach nearly $250,000, Markovits sees the event as a good early sign of the future.

“Things are going really well so far, and this center is something our community needs,” he said.

Coming Sunday Read more about the historic Jastro house in Sunday’s Eye Street.

Dine In Only Expires 10-31-10 Maximum value of $6.95 only. One coupon per table or party. Not valid with any other offers or Holidays.

Halo: Reach fans, get your game on Test your skills at this weekend’s team tournament THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Y

ou've spent countless hours torturing your friends with your standard issue MA37 Assault Rifle. And from time to time, you've come across a M247H Heavy Machine Gun to take out an onslaught of alien forces as you try to protect the planet. And we're sure you've lobbed a M9 grenade in a cluster of Covenant.

Now it's time to test your skills against some of the best SPARTAN soldiers in Bakersfield.

This will be a skills competition like no other, according to GameStor owner Gil Garcia.

On Saturday, the locally owned video game store will host a Halo: Reach Team Slayer Pro Tournament at its newest location, 8000 McNair Lane, across from 24 Hour Fitness, near Gosford Road and White Lane.

“If you really want to test your skills come out to our tournament,” Garcia said.

“You might be good in your own circles but you can put your team to the test and see how good they are here.

Halo: Reach 4 vs. 4 team slayer pro tournament When: Saturday; registration at 11 a.m.; tournament starts noon Where: GameStor, 8000 McNair Ave., southwest location, across from 24 hour fitness Cost: $10 per person, $40 per team Information: 836-3333 or visit www.gamestor.com Extra ammo: Major League Gaming rules apply. Each battle will be first to 50 kills with a 10minute time limit. Best two out of three battles win. Maps will be randomly drawn before matches.

Maps used will be Pinnacle, Asylum, Broadwalk, Reflection and Powerhouse. Wireless controllers provided.

“If you can win here, you're pretty good.”

Garcia anticipates more than 120 players will convene on GameStor's southwest location for the one-day tournament. And it won't be just gamers from the Central Valley who make the drive.

“We've had calls from San Diego and Sacramento asking about our tournament,” Garcia said.

With three fields to play, as many as 16 teams will be battling for bragging rights at the same time. Entry fee is $10 per player or $40 per team. Preregistration is going on now and players will have until 11 a.m. Saturday to sign up. The first battle will start at noon. Cash prizes will be given to the winning team and are based on number of teams that enter.

This is the second first-person shooter tournament at the southwest location. In June, GameStor hosted a Modern Warfare 2: Call to Duty tournament and winners received $100 each for their efforts, Garcia said.

Halo: Reach, a prequel to the Halo: Combat Evolved, is already the biggest game Microsoft has ever launched on its XBOX 360 platform. Microsoft announced a record-breaking $200 million sales figure on just its first day of release in the U.S. and Europe.

“Halo: Reach is the biggest game Microsoft has ever released, and its launch has already surpassed every game, movie and entertainment launch this year,” said Phil Spencer, corporate vice president of Microsoft Game Studios.

26

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 23, 2010

Eye Street

A hawk munches on a rodent at the Kern River Audubon Preserve toward the entrance off Highway 178 in Weldon.

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Get in touch with nature in Weldon Nature & Vulture Festival takes place on Saturday

Detail area Bakersfield Kern County

Onyx

Weldon

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8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Turkey Vulture Lift Off. Meet at the Kern River Preserve, Weldon. The vultures normally leave around 9 a.m.

9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Bird Walk at the Kern River Preserve, a wonderful introduction to bird watching.

10 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Falconry demonstration. See a hybrid goshawk and learn about the art of falconry.

10:30 am-11 a.m. Southern Pacific Pond turtle demonstration. Learn about the Kern River Preserve's preservation efforts for this rare species 11 a.m-11:30 am. Bird Feeding Workshop. Get ready for fall and winter bird feeding with Birdie Foster. Learn about feed and how to maintain bird feeders.

Noon-1 p.m. No-host picnic at the preserve. Bring lunch and enjoy music from Small Town Media and a talk from naturalists.

Bella Vista

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he 16th annual Kern Valley Autumn Nature & Vulture Festival will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Audubon Kern River Preserve in Weldon.

The annual migration of the vultures from their northern breeding grounds begins in early September and continues through early October.

Between 1994 and 2006, volunteers have counted the vultures that passed over a single point in the Kern River Valley, averaging 30,000 vultures seen during each 40-day period. Although the official scientific survey has ended, the migration has not. Each year, Audubon and residents of the Kern Valley celebrate the janitors of the earth as they pass through the valley at this fun and free event.

There will be many interesting booths with exhibits about nature, a special postal cancelation designed by John Schmitt, animals, workshops and local vendors selling nature-related crafts. The events are free.

Kern River Preserve

1 MILE

THE CALIFORNIAN

16th annual Kern Valley Autumn Nature & Vulture Festival When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday Where: Audubon Kern River Preserve, 18747 Highway 178 in Weldon.

Admission: Free Information: E-mail or call Audubon Kern River Preserve at krpfriends@audubon.org or 760-3782029.

About Audubon Kern River Preserve The Kern River Preserve is managed

by Audubon California for the preservation of one of California’s largest contiguous cottonwood-willow riparian forests and the wildlife it supports.

The Friends of the Kern River Preserve is a membership organization that provides volunteer and financial support for outreach, education, wildlife habitat protection and stewardship.

12:30 p.m. - 1 p.m. Workshop: California Condor Update; Vulture Workshop.

Bring your folding chair or blanket.

1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Fall Colors and Butterflies. Alison Sheehey, outreach director, will lead a walk around the nature trail to enjoy the colors and the butterflies that nectar on fall flowers. — Information provided by Audubon Kern River Preserve

25

Thursday, September 23, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

GOOD HEALTH IS ALL AROUND YOU

Living healthy is easier when you can choose from one of our eight local medical offices.

And when you do visit us, you can be confident in knowing you’ll be cared for by a team that includes your doctor, specialists, nurses, and health educators. All united in one goal—to keep you and your family healthy.

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4 Discovery Plaza Medical Offices 1200 Discovery Drive

kp.org/kerncounty

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3 Coffee Road Medical Offices 4801 Coffee Road

8 NEW: Chester Avenue Medical Offices 2531 Chester Ave. Scheduled to open in December 2010

PHYSICIANS BLVD

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2 Central Medical Offices 3733 San Dimas St.

7 Stockdale Medical Offices 3501 Stockdale Highway

99

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1 Behavioral Health Offices 4900 California Ave.

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map not to scale

To find the facility nearest you, or to learn how to become a member, call us at (661) 334-2005 or visit kp.org/kerncounty.

27

Thursday, September 23, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street GO&DO Today Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, 8 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 P St. Free with paid fair admission. 8334900.

Kids Daze, children 12 and under are admitted free, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. 833-4900.

Ralphie May, from NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” 7:30 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $29.50 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Suzanne Greenberg, will be guest speaker at the California Writers Series, 7 p.m., CSUB, Student Union, Multipurpose Room, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free. 654-6503.

Actors from The Empty Space, present dramatic readings from “Burro Genius” as inspired by the art of the “Latination II” exhibit, 7 p.m., Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. Free. 634-9598.

Bakersfield Pregnancy Center seeking Volunteers, along bilingual peer counselors and receptionists to serve clients. Training is Oct. 19, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, 1801 21st St. Register by Oct 18, 326-1915.

City of Bakersfield Department of Recreation & Sports, offers a wide variety of lessons, sports, classes and more. For more information, call 326-3866.

Masters Class in Seminar, with Francesco and Filippo Mazzei, pair wines made from five different Sangiovese clones with appetizers, Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. 633-WINE. Roadrunner Track Club is having Cross Country Sign-Ups, for ages 7 to 18, practice is three times a week, competing is most weekends in October-November, $50 includes uniform, at a southwest location.

619-6199.

Scrap-A-Thon Fundraiser, for Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House; with refreshments, games, contests, music, giveaways and more, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday; and 1 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Picture Perfect & Stamps of Approval, 112 E. Tehachapi Blvd., Tehachapi. $10 donation Thursday; $20 donation Saturday. 823-1777.

YMCA is accepting registration, for coed basketball for ages 5 to 12, indoor co-ed soccer for ages 4 to 7 and girls volleyball for ages 7 to 12, now until Oct. 21. 837-9622.

Friday Pam Tillis, with special guests Williams and Ree, 8 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 P St. Free with paid fair admission. 833-4900.

Free Admission for Active Military, with ID into the fair, and children under 5, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. 833-4900.

Local music showcase, with Breckenridge Road, 8 p.m., Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, Stockdale Highway and Buena Vista Road. Free. 852-7300.

Monty Byrom & the Buckaroos, 7:30 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $5. buckowens.com or call 328-7560.

Tuscany at Twilight Fundraiser, presented by the Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary Club; with Francesco Mazzei, fine dining, world-class wine and entertainment, 6 to 10 p.m., Bakersfield College, horticultural arboretum, 1801 Panorama Drive. $75 per person and can be purchased from Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary Club members or by calling 703-9394.

Electronic E-Waste Recycling Event, bring your unwanted electronic items like computer monitors, TVs, CPUs, 9 a.m. to 4

p.m. Friday and Saturday, Bakersfield College, southwest parking lot on the corner of Haley Street and University Avenue, 1801 Panorama Drive. Free. nlagness@yahoo.com or 369-9861.

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

Wine Bar Flight, featuring the best of 2003 Bordeaux, Clos du Marquis, Calon Segur, Clos Les Lunelles and more, 4 p.m., Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. Tastes, $5 to $25. 633-WINE. Hectic Films presents “The Grip,” featuring independent and short films, 8 to 10 p.m. every Friday, Caffeine Supreme, 2000 F St. caffeinesupreme.com or 3219097.

Senior Day, 9 a.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. Free admission for seniors 55+. Parking is also free to seniors until 4 p.m. 833-4900.

“Tinkerbell’s Clay House” Kids’ Night Out, for ages 7 to 12, mold and paint your own clay fairy house, with pizza, games, prizes, sundaes, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. Reservations required. bakersfield.colormemine.com or 664-7366.

“Trick-Out Your Textbook: Book Covers for Teens,” 3:30 p.m., Beale Library, Lake Room, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0770.

Wine Tasting, includes different wines and appetizers, 5:30 to 8 p.m., Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway. $25 per person. 8344433.

Saturday Air Supply, 8 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 P St. Free with paid fair admission. 833-4900.

Los Tigres del Norte Concert, 8 p.m., the theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $50.30 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

Bakersfield Zombie Walk, benefitting the Alpha Canine Society and OKRA Orphan Kitten Rescue and Adoption; meet between 5 and 5:30 p.m., walk begins at 6 p.m., meet in the parking lot of In-N-Out Burger and Sports Chalet on Stockdale Highway.

Donations accepted. Search for BakersfieldZombiewalk on Facebook for details.

16th annual Autumn Nature & Vulture Festival, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., AudubonCalifornia’s Kern River Preserve, 18747 Highway 178, Weldon. 760-378-2029.

African American Network — Performing Arts Soiree, with champagne and hors d’oeuvres, 6 p.m., Padre Hotel, Prospect Room, 1702 18th St. $35 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Annual Elks National Free Throw “Hoop Shoot” Contest, 9 a.m., Foursquare Church — Family Life Center, 20 Panorama Drive, Wofford Heights. 476-6812 or 760-3766475.

Bakersfield Green Thumb Garden Club, annual plant sale, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., Church of the Brethren, in the courtyard, 327 A St. 393-3657.

Beer Tasting: Oktoberfest, taste German beers with aficionado Larry James, Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. $10 beer, $15 food. 633-WINE. Sixth annual Fall Fundraiser, benefitting Valley Achievement Center; with dinner, live music, dancing, silent auction, western attire contest, world-champion trick roper, 6 p.m. to midnight, Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $75 per person.

617-6040.

Please see PAGE 28

28

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 23, 2010

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

Comedy Show, benefitting the Kern Assistive Technology Center, 8 to 11 p.m., Desi Cafe, inside Bollywood, 4837 Panama Lane. $10 pre-sale; $15 at the door. Pre-sale tickets can be purchased at Kern Assistive Technology Center, 3101 Sillect Ave. 861-1346.

“The Feast at the Farm,” with chef Rich Mead of Sage Restaurant in Newport Beach, includes dinner, appetizers, champagne, farm tour, 4:30 p.m., Tangleweed Farm, 21192 Old Town Road, Tehachapi. $125. tasteoftehachapi.com or 972-9007.

Rooter Bus to the BC vs. Citrus College Football Game, bus departure 2:30 p.m., game time 6 p.m., bus returning immediately following the game, meet at Bakersfield College, at Haley and Panorama parking lot, 1801 Panorama Drive. $25; bring your own refreshments. Reservations needed by 3 p.m. today, 395-4273.

Mass honoring Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield 100th Anniversary, 5 p.m., St. Francis Church, 900 H St. Book Signing, with author Nora McFarland of “A Bad Day’s Work: A Lilly Hawkins Mystery,” from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Barnes & Noble, 4001 California Ave. 631-2575.

Booking Signing, with author Susan De Long of “Silent Love,” noon, Borders, 4980 Stockdale Highway.

328-9800.

Boys & Girls Club Artfest 2010, art auction and wine tasting, 6 to 10 p.m., Moorea Banquet Centre, 8700 Swigert Court, #109. $60. 325-3730.

Space Invaders Halo Reach Tournament, 4 vs. Team Slayer Pro Tournament, registration 11 a.m., tournament at noon, Gamestor, 8000 McNair Lane, Suite 103. $10 per person; $40 per team. 836-3333.

Family Skate Night, 7 to 10 p.m. every Saturday, 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. “Fall Face Lift: Interior and Exterior Painting”; 11 a.m. to noon “Decorating Flooring Solutions”; 1 to 2 p.m. “Save Energy, Save Money”; and Sunday classes: 1 to 2 p.m. “Fall Planting and Maintenance”; 2 to 3 p.m.

“Maintaining your Driveway”; Home Depot. homedepot.com or call 800430-3376.

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

National Jet Boat Association Drag Boat Racing, NJBA Nationals, Saturday and Sunday, Lake Ming. njbaracing.net or 714-777-5081.

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 3240638.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 97 Steak Dinner, with a DJ, 6 p.m., VFW Post #97, 5350 S. Union Ave. $10. 304-5654.

Wendale Davis Foundation’s annual Peace March, to the Martin

Luther King Park, 10 a.m., begins at Lowell Park, 800 4th St. West Bakersfield Optimist Club, making a difference in the lives of boys who don’t fit in the foster-care system, 9 a.m., Marie Callendar’s, 3801 California Ave. 834-4888.

West Coast Hot Rod Association, Saturday and Sunday, Famoso Raceway, 33559 Famoso Road, McFarland. famosoraceway.com.

Sunday Clay Walker, 8 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 P St. Free with paid fair admission.

833-4900.

Free Admission for Active Military, with ID into the fair, and children under 5, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. 833-4900.

Lucha Libre, with special guest Hector Domingues and La Internacional Sonora Mariachi Shoe, 7 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Grandstand, 1142 P St. 833-4900.

Bakersfield Raider Nation Club, will be at Round Table Pizza, 2060 White Lane, for every game this year.

Bring the family and enjoy raffles, food discounts and membership. bakersfieldraider nationclub.com or 340-7167.

NFL ticket, 9 a.m., B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane. 3977304.

Parade of Market Grand Champions of Animals, 5 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Livestock Pavilion, 1142 P St. 833-4900.

Preschool Grand Opening & Teacher Dedication Service, 8:45 and 10:30 a.m. services, Christ’s Church of the Valley, 13701 Stockdale Highway. 589-9773.

THEATER Omnipresent Puppet Theatre, presents “Jack and the Beanstalk,” 10 a.m. today, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $6. 587-3377.

26th annual Kern Shakespeare Festival “As You Like It,” 8 p.m.

Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. 327PLAY. “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. Friday and Saturday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $9 to $20. 5873377.

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.

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. 323-1622.

Exhibits on Display, The Ceramic Art of David Furman: “Forty Years in

the Making: 2010-1970,” Pamela Hill Enticknap: “Currents,” and Eye Gallery: “Close to Home,” now on display until Nov. 21, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; noon to 4 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. Closed Mondays. 323-7219.

All Media Class, by instructor Phyllis Oliver, all media welcome, with color theory stressed. For more information or to register, e-mail 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 760376-6604.

Art for Healing program, of Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield has many unique classes that may help alleviate stress and anxiety resulting in illness, loss, grief or caring for another. All classes are free but some suggest a donation and are held at Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A St. Visit mercybakersfield.org/art or to register, 324-7070.

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 twohour classes. Call for more information or to register. 304-7002.

Cherice Hatton, featured artist for September, Bakersfield Mazda, 3201 Cattle Drive. 328-8000.

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.

Roberta Jean Owen, featured artist for the month of September, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320.

Scrap-A-Thon Fundraiser, for Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House; with refreshments, games, contests, music, giveaways and more, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday; and 1 to 11 p.m.

Saturday, Picture Perfect & Stamps of Approval, 112 E. Tehachapi Blvd., Tehachapi. $10 donation Thursday; $20 donation Saturday. 823-1777.

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, 589-7463 or 496-5153.

Please see PAGE 29

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW FOR THESE SHOWS HEADED OUR WAY Oct. 20: “Quartetto Gelato,” presented by Bakersfield Community Concert 2800 Buck Owens Blvd.

Association, 7:30 p.m., $60 vallitix.com or 322-5200. for seven concerts. bakersfieldcca.org or 205Oct. 1: 10th annual Boots & Bachelor Auction, benefiting 8522 or 589-2478. the Bakersfield Homeless Oct. 21: “Disney on Ice” Center, featuring 15 eligible Let's Celebrate, 7 p.m. bachelors, live and silent Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m., auction, no host bar, 6:30 to 3 p.m., and 7 p.m. Saturday; 11 p.m., $65, includes dinner. 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday, $16Tickets available at Crystal $45.

Palace. 378-5646.

Nov. 5: Sublime with Rome, Oct. 6: David Allan Coe, 7 with special guests The p.m., $25.50 to $35.50 plus Dirty Heads, doors open at fee.

6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m., $35 advance; $40 day Dec. 8: Raul Malo, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, of show plus fee.

2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $15 Nov. 5: Hot Fest 2010, with to $21 plus fee.

Ludacris, New Boyz, Ray-J, Cali Swag District, Miguel, Dec. 27: X, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 YG, Auburn, Far East Movement, Jermiah and Buck Owens Blvd. $18 to more, 7:30 p.m., $28.30$24 plus fee. $61.05 plus fee.

Fishlips Bar & Grill Nov. 15: Beauty and the 1517 18th St. Beast-Broadway in Bakersfield, 7:30 p.m. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Dec. 13: Radio City Oct. 5: Dave Alvin & The Guilty Band, 8 p.m., $20 plus Christmas Spectacular with The Rockettes, 4 and 7 p.m., fee; 21 & over only. $49.80 to $102 plus fee.

Oct. 13: The Legendary Jan. 24: Grease-Broadway in Shack Shakers, with Bob Bakersfield, 7:30 p.m.

Wayne & Outlaw Carnies, 9 p.m., $10 plus fee; 21 & over Feb. 23: The Rat Pack is only.

Back-Broadway in Bakersfield, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 14: Fall Tour 2010 Ozomatli, celebrating 15 April 7: Fiddler on the Roofyears together, 8 p.m., $24 Broadway in Bakersfield, plus fee; 21 & over only.

7:30 p.m.

Oct. 22: Greensky Bakersfield Fox Theater Bluegrass, with special 2001 H St. guest Lucky Tubb, 8 p.m., $10 plus fee; 21 & over only. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Nov. 6: The Bob & Tom Oct. 15: Blake Shelton, with Show, with Costaki special guest, 8 p.m., $25 to Economopoulos, Mike $53 plus fee.

Macrae, Dan St. Paul, 8 p.m., $20 plus fee. 21 & over only. Nov. 12: “Maggie” a Love Story, doors open at 7:30 Nov. 20: Led Zepagain, a p.m., show at 8 p.m. Friday tribute to Led Zepplin, 9 and Saturday; doors open at p.m., $20 plus fee. 21 & over 1:30 p.m., show at 2 p.m. only.

Sunday, $25.

Dec. 8: Wayne “The Train” Nov. 19: Lisa Lampanelli, Hancock, with The Chop with special guest, 8 p.m., Tops, 9 p.m., $10 plus fee; 21 $38.50 plus fee. & over only.

Dec. 3: Felipe Esparza, with Dec. 11: Bonfire, a tribute to special guest, 8 p.m., $26.50 AC/DC, 9 p.m., $15 plus fee. plus fee.

21 & over only.

Dec. 15: Ho Ho Hoey Rockin' Dec. 23: Which One's Pink, Christmas Show, featuring Pink Floyd tribute, 9 p.m., Gary Hoey with Lukas $20 plus fee; 21 & over only. Nelson, doors open at 7 p.m., show begins at 8 p.m., Rabobank Convention $20 plus fee.

Center Dec. 16: Moscow's “Great Russian Nutcracker” Ballet, 1001 Truxtun Ave. doors open at 7 p.m., show ticketmaster.com or call at 8 p.m., $27.50 to $67.50 800-745-3000. plus fee. Discounts for Oct. 15: World Vision Presents “Make A Difference seniors 60+ and AAA Tour 2010,” with Jason Gray, members.

Michael W. Smith, Third Day, Feb. 23: Robin Trower, with special guest, 8 p.m.,$20 to TobyMac, 7 p.m., $24.50$30 plus fee. $49.50 plus fee.

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

29

Thursday, September 23, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

Pottery Wheel Class, 10 a.m.

Friday and Saturday, The Ceramic Shop, 2550 E. Belle Terrace, Suite 300. $28. 834-1000.

Free art classes, for home-school parents, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturdays. Call to reserve your spot. Moore’s Art Studio, 10205 Hurlingham Drive. 588-7769.

Glass Pendants & Glass Bottle Toppers Class, 8 to 10 a.m.

Saturday, The Ceramic Shop, 2550 E. Belle Terrace, Suite 300. $35.

834-1000.

MUSIC Acoustic Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; The People’s Band, 9 p.m.

Thursday.

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

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

Blues Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; Lil Mikey & the Blues Hammers, 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday.

Classic Rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Catch 22, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway, 834-4433; Shades of Gray, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; The Tony Ernst Band, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Friday.

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; The BEAgles, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Saturday.

The Kern River Saloon, 20 Tobias St., Kernville, 760-376-4786; Left Coast Groovies, 8:30 p.m.

Saturday.

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.

Dance classes, beginning West Coast swing, intermediate/ advanced West Coast swing with instructor Mimi Johanson, at 8214 Mossrock Drive. Call 330-9616 for details.

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

Thursday.

Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; Ladies night with live DJ, 9 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.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; The Mothership, 9:30 p.m.

Saturday.

Jazz

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, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Twang Bangers, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday; Nightlife, 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

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

Sunday.

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

Live Jazz & Wine Bar, featuring Jazz Connection with Steve Eisen and Mark Meyer, 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, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

Live Jazz & Wine Bar, featuring Jazz Connection with Paul Cierley and Lawanda Smith, along with 24 wines, 5 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. 633-WINE. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday.

Dancing

Karaoke

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

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

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

Wednesday.

Country

Cactus Valley Mexican Restaurant, 4215 Rosedale Highway, 633-1948; 6 to 10 p.m.

Thursday; beer pong and happy hour all day Sunday.

Crossroads Pizzeria, 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.

Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 9000 Ming Ave., 664-1400; 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.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.

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.

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.

Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; 9 p.m. every Wednesday.

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

Friday.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Radiohead Tribute, 9:30 p.m. Friday; Black Sails Western Shores & Slow Death, 9 p.m.

Wednesday.

Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., Crooked Folk, Rear View Mirror, Driving Spirit, The Blacksmiths, 9 p.m. Friday; and Expose, N/A, Three Chord Whore, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5; 21 and over. myspace.com/vinnysbarandgrill.

Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; Two Timers, 9 p.m. Friday.

Latin/Salsa

Ska

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.

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.

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.

Mariachi

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.

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

Variety 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.

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

UPCOMING EVENTS

Oldies

En Vogue, 8 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 P St. Free with paid fair admission. 833-4900.

Free Admission for Active Military, with ID into the fair, and children under 5, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. 833-4900.

Games Galore, doors open at 11 a.m., salad luncheon at 11:30 a.m., games such as bridge, Mah Jong, Mexican Train and others will be played after lunch, Woman’s Club, 2030 18th St. $5. 663-8408 or 663-9021.

Hypnotist Tina Marie, 6 and 9:45 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 P St. Free with paid fair admission. 833-4900.

Monday Madness, $3 admission for ages 6 and up, until 9 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. 833-4900.

“The Lowe Family,” presented by Bakersfield Community Concert Association, 7:30 p.m., the theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $60 for eight concerts. bakersfieldcca.org or 205-8522 or 589-2478.

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 and Saturday.

Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; The Press, 2 to 6 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; Good Question, 9 p.m. Friday.

Monday 9/27