Bakersfield Californian 'Eye St' Entertainment by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010

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

The man who would be ‘King’ Mostly self-taught musician sets sights on concert win, more BY JEFF GOODMAN Californian staff writer jgoodman@bakersfield.com

yler Hengtgen has a case of the blues. A very good case. The 20-year-old guitarist recently emerged as the Bakersfield store finalist of Guitar Center’s national “King of the Blues” competition, surprising the judges — and his well-seasoned opponents — with his strumming skills. He’s in Pasadena today for district-level duel, and he’s hoping to advance to the regional finals in Hollywood next month. The thing with Hengtgen, though, is that the blues only make up a pick-sized portion of his musical palette. “Blues isn’t the main thing I like to play,” he said. “It’s one of the many things. I’ve played jazz, rock, funk, all different things. I’m really into everything.” Hengtgen begins rattling off his favorite musicians — Guthrie Govan, Tommy Emmanuel, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Albert King — and it sounds like he could make a list as long as the neck of his sunburst orange Peavey HP Special guitar. He tabs Jimi Hendrix’s slowgrooving “Little Wing” as one of his favorite all-time songs, yet there’s a video clip on YouTube of him flying up and down the fretboard for a section of Metallica’s “Master of Puppets.” He surfs the Web with an eye for the unknown, constantly searching for gifted guitarists from this genre and that. Why bother with a blues contest? After his older brother, Nick, piqued his interest, Hengtgen began learning guitar during his first year at Liberty High School — mostly on his own. He didn’t join the band, hasn’t formed one of his own and only took lessons from Bill O’Neill at now-closed Stockdale Music for a short while during his junior year. Despite not having much blues background or any public performing under his belt, Hengtgen entered last year’s edition of the annual competition following a friend’s suggestion. He didn’t get past the first round.

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Tyler Hengtgen, 20, is Bakersfield Guitar Center’s finalist in the “King of the Blues” competition and advances to the district level competition in Pasadena today.

What he did get, however, was the urge to try again. He worked on improvising, mostly by jamming with friends, and improved his technical skills. Maybe more importantly, he overcame some nerves by playing guitar with a buddy between classes at Bakersfield College, turning passers-by into impromptu crowds. This year, he couldn’t wait to be on stage. “Leading up to playing, it was pretty nerve-wracking,” said Hengtgen. “But once you’re playing, it’s a whole different thing. I’m just going along with the music. “It’s a little different performing for judges, knowing that you’re being judged on what you do, but that’s the only difference.” After three preliminary rounds in May and a store final at Guitar Center on Ming Avenue, Hengtgen wasn’t just being judged. He was being hailed. Once the panel announced Hengtgen as the winner, contestants shook his hand and patted him on the back. They told him “Good job!” and wished him congratulations, probably wondering where in the blues he came from. “He took everybody by surprise,” said Tommy Sosebee, the

Tyler Hengtgen began learning guitar during his first year at Liberty High School — mostly on his own.

store’s guitar department manager. “There were a lot of older guys, and he kind of swept it out from under them.” Hengtgen’s showing kept him in the running for a prize package that includes $25,000 cash, endorsement deals from Gibson and Ernie Ball and a feature in Guitar World magazine. No store finalist from Bakersfield has ever advanced beyond the district level, Sosebee said, but he sees no reason why Hengtgen can’t shred that trend. “He’s exactly what the judges are looking for — taste, tone, phrasing,” Sosebee said. “Actually putting some emotion into

it. He’s got as good a shot as anyone.” And even if the competition doesn’t pan out favorably for Hengtgen, a future in music won’t lose its appeal. Once he completes his general education requirements at Bakersfield College, he hopes to attend the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. The budding guitarist is also interested in recording and “that whole side of it.” This whole side of it — the self-teaching, genre-hopping, blues-playing, judge-wowing side — he’s pretty much taken care of.

Travel club plans trip to Greece, Turkey BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing columnist

In preparation for a 10-day trip to Greece and Turkey, members of the Kern County European Travel Club are getting an overview of what they’ll see. Jim Engel, the leader, said the theme is “In the Footsteps of the Apostle Paul.” At the group’s twice monthly meetings he shows videos of the places they will visit and has produced a digital schematic, or map, of Paul’s first century journey. His wife, Leasa Sukut-Engel, discusses books she’s read on the subject. On July 1 the Engels will have a booth at a Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce event at the Double Tree Hotel and will provide information for anyone interested in joining the club. Also being planned is a tour next April to the Netherlands and Belgium. All told, he’s been leading tours for about 24 years. “I’ve been doing this since the 1980s when I taught international studies at Bakersfield College,” Engel said.”I used to take lots of students and faculty almost every year.” Now that he’s retired, Engel acts as a host guide and donates $25 per traveler to the California Retired Teachers Association for scholarships. He noted that since he’s not a travel agent, he makes trip arrangements through Globus. Safety is the primary concern of today’s travelers, Engel said, and he offers several pieces of advice to help people feel more comfortable. In addition to watching out for pickpockets, there’s a much greater need these days to be aware of your immediate surroundings, and to notice what’s going on around you. He also advises wearing clothing that isn’t especially colorful or of a design that makes you conspicuous. “You don’t want to stand out,” he explained. “You want to blend in, to mix with the rest of society.” Overall, though Engel takes a philosophical approach to traveling in foreign countries, “The way I look at it, everybody has a number,” meaning when it’s your time to go, you’ll go. “I don’t worry — God’s in control.”

Kern County European Travel Club What: Orientation and registration for “The Footsteps of Apostle Tour,” traveling to Greece and Turkey When: 10 a.m. Saturday Information: For location and other details, call Jim Engel at 399-6507.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010

Eye Street Adv. Tix on Sale GROWN UPS Tix on Sale THE LAST AIRBENDER (1140 145 430) 800 Adv. Adv. Tix on Sale TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE KNIGHT AND DAY (PG-13) TOY STORY 3 (G) (1100 150 430) 710 (1015 115 145 415 445) 715 745 1000 1030 JONAH HEX (PG-13) (1030 110 315 530) 745 1030 THE A-TEAM (PG-13) (1110 200 445) 730 TOY STORY 3 (G) (1015 100 200 345 445) 630 730 900 1000 THE KARATE KID (PG) TOY STORY 3 IN REALD 3D - EVENT (100 PM 400 PM) 700 PM PRICING (G) (1045 130 415) 700 930 THE A-TEAM (PG-13) (1035 140 440) 740 1015 MARMADUKE (PG) (1145 205 420) 650 THE KARATE KID (PG) (1230 330) 645 945 MARMADUKE (PG) (1000 1215 230) 435 KILLERS (PG-13) (1120 140 410) 720 GET HIM TO THE GREEK (R) - ID REQ'D (1040 145 500) 800 1040 SPLICE (R) - ID REQ'D (350 PM) KILLERS (PG-13) (1145 215 450) 720 1020 SURF'S UP (PG) (1000 AM) PAUL BLART: MALL COP (PG) (1000 AM) GET HIM TO THE GREEK (R) - ID REQ'D OF PERSIA: SANDS OF (1130 215 455) 750 PRINCE TIME (PG-13) (1020 120) 420 710 1010 SHREK FOREVER AFTER IN REALD 3D SHREK FOREVER AFTER (PG) EVENT PRICING (PG) (1115 130 405) 630 (1100 150 430) 705 920 LETTERS TO JULIET (PG) (1200 PM 300 PM) MAN 2 (PG-13) 615 PM 940 PM ROBIN HOOD (PG-13) (1240 PM) 640 PM IRON GROWN UPS - MIDNITE (PG-13) 1201 AM BIG FOUR ANTRAX, MEGADETH, (1105 210 450) 740 METALLICA, SLAYER ENCOR (NR) 730 PM IRON MAN 2 (PG-13) Free Family Film Festival - Today 10AM JONAH HEX (PG-13)

Times For 6/24/10

Text Movies to 21321 3-D Matinee $9.00, 3-D General $12.00 Matinee $6.00, Children/Seniors $6.00, General Admission $9.00,

Kids Summer Film Festival every Wednesday and Thursday 9am $1.00 Admission $1.00 Popcorn.

ECLIPSE opens 6/30

Karate Kid***PG 9:45 10:20 12:45 1:20 3:45 4:20 6:45 7:30 10:05 10:40 The A Team*** PG-13 10:30 12:30 1:10 3:10 4:05 5:50 7:00 8:30 9:50 10:45 Toy Story 3 in 3-D – G 10:15 11:45 1:15 2:45 4:15 5:45 7:15 8:45 10:15 Jonah Hex - PG-13 9: 55 10:55 11:55 12:55 1:50 3:05 4:00 5:10 6:10 7:20 8:15 9:30 10:20 Knight & Day*** PG-13 9:40 11:20 12:15 2:00 2:50 4:40 5:25 7:15 8:00 10:00 10:40

Shrek The Final Chapter – PG 10:35 12:50 3:00 5:55 Killers PG-13 11:15 1:45 4:15 7:10 8:20 9:40 10:45 Get Him To The Greek R 12:05 2:55 5:20 7:50 10:20 Toy Story 3 – 35MM – G 9:50 11:20 12:30 2:05 3:30 5:05 6:15 8:05 9:15 10:35 Shrek The Final Chapter 3-D – G 12:40 3:40 6:00 8:30

1000 California Ave. • 661-636-0484 • mayacinemas.com TM

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TOY STORY 3 (G)

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(12:00, 2:40, 5:20), 7:20, 8:10, 9:55, 10:45 GET HIM TO THE GREEK (R)

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No Bones about it, this is a mellow joint Happy hour is hopping but not too hectic

Maya Bakersfield 16 Cinemas

Tickets now on sale

A Night Out with Miranda Whitworth CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

IRON MAN 2 (PG-13)

10:10

KILLERS (PG-13)

(11:00AM, 1:15, 3:45), 6:10, 8:25, 10:40 MARMADUKE (PG)

(10:40AM, 1:00, 3:10, 5:15) PRINCE OF PERSIA (PG-13)

(11:20AM, 2:00, 4:40)

SEX AND THE CITY 2 (R)

(12:50, 4:00), 7:10, 10:15

Showtimes Valid Only 6/24/10

ooking for live music in a lowkey atmosphere in southwest Bakersfield? T Bones Ranch House is the place to go, giving those not ready to rock all night a spot to enjoy a show. Located on the corner of Gosford Road and District Boulevard, T Bones offers up a classic steakhouse menu and, for those who go on a weekend night, classic rock cover tunes to complement the meal. When you first enter T Bones, it’s not immediately apparent that they have a full band performing or even the facilities to host that type of event. But it’s the geography of the restaurant that makes their small music scene successful. Tucked away on the east side of the building, what is a covered patio during the day is transformed into a closed concert room at night. Windows are shut and stage lights are lit so band regulars like The Beagles or A.K.A. can perform without bothering neighboring businesses or even unreceptive diners inside the restaurant. Management at T Bones has created a two-room bar area that they refer to as the lounge and the patio. The two sections are separated by a wall, small hallway and heavy door. The layout keeps the party on the patio, while the music’s volume stays low in the lounge and inaudible to those enjoying steaks in the dining room. Late on a Saturday night the restaurant is empty and the crowd is light on the patio. A.K.A. vocalist Sharon Gleason croons to the few that are there. The band brings a lounge feel to classic rock, pop, country and disco hits. The song selection seems to fit the taste of the crowd, which is made up mostly of couples and women in their 40s, 50s and 60s. The mood is positive yet laid-back. It is perfect for someone looking for a good time out on a Saturday night, not necessarily a big party. Jennifer is tending bar and the slow night gives her a chance to talk up T Bones Ranch House’s weekday crowd and offerings. “We have karaoke on Thursday nights and that really brings people in. But our happy hour specials keep the bar area busy during the day,” she said. While the restaurant closes between lunch and dinner, the lounge and patio stay open for business offering drink specials and appetizers. Happy hour lasts from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., allowing a large window of opportunity for people to eat and drink without breaking the bank.

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

T Bones cocktail waitress Katie Schwingl serves an order in the lounge area.

T BONES RANCH HOUSE 8020 District Blvd. 398-1300. Hours 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 9 p.m. Monday to Wednesday 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 11:30 p.m. Thursday (Lounge and patio stay open all day) 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday Menu Dinner is served from 4 p.m. to close. Entrees ($10 to $35) include: salads, fish and chips, certified Angus beef meatloaf, pork chops and applesauce, St. Louis style ribs, rib eye, porterhouse, filet mignon and New York steaks. Appetizers ($3.95 to $12.95) include: Aussie potato chips, popcorn shrimp, fried okra, hot links and chicken wings. Happy hour specials From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., half off appetizers, $2 domestic mondos, $3.50 import mondos, $3 well drinks, $2 bottles and $2.50 Coronas.

The western decor at T Bones is a draw to many in the southwest neighborhood.

While the happy hour may run long, your chance for live music at T Bones ends early. Music on the patio usually kicks off around 7:30 p.m. and always wraps up at 11:30, with the bar closing soon after. It may not be the best option for the die-hard, late-night crowd, but if you are looking to enjoy a full show, in a laidback location and make it home by midnight — T Bones is worth the trip.

Miranda Whitworth works at Clear Channel Radio Bakersfield and writes occasional columns for The Californian.

Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street “In my travels, I tell people all the time, Bakersfield people are the nicest people in the world. And it’s true.” — Emily Falke

Falke saves ‘Best’ for last Departing chief curator has big plans for new job BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing columnist

fter 10 years as chief curator at the Bakersfield Museum of Art, Emily Falke has accepted a position with the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. And even though she’s departing from our semi-arid valley, I see her as leaving on the crest of a very big wave, namely, the Best of the West exhibition that opened on June 10. “It’s been such a good long run for me here,” Falke said. “And this current exhibit that’s been so well-received, that’s a great last hurrah.” The exhibit, which took two years to plan and execute, highlights the collections of local residents as well as a gallery of paintings by top Western artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. During her tenure, Falke has done much to strengthen the art museum in terms of the quality of its exhibitions, its educational programs and its status in the community. She feels confident that the museum will continue to grow and thrive. “We’ve worked hard to get it where it is,” she said. “We’ve set a bar, a standard, and no one is going to go under it. We’re at a very good place now — financially we are sound.” Falke will be at the art museum until Wednesday but she plans to come back for short periods in July and August. “I’m not going to leave them in the lurch — I’ll be back to help with the transition,” she said. “I’ve already booked exhibits up to the end of 2011 and we have a lot of other things coming up, like Via Arte in October.” In serving as curator at the Maritime Museum, Falke will be dealing with different kinds of subject matter and

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Emily Falke prepares a dish during the Eye Cook 2008 finals at Urner’s. She was the champion of the event that year.

exhibits than she’s done here. “It’s more hands-on,” she said. “It’s more of a technical museum with more sophisticated exhibits. It’s in the old naval building and there’s a lot of sentiment for it on the part of the people who live there and all up and down the coast.” In preparation for the job, she was asked to do a special project related to the museum’s nautical theme. “As I explored the history, learned about the Chumash Indians, and ships and lighthouses, I found I enjoyed thinking outside of the (art) museum field,” she said. “But I would like to bring a little more art to it.” Falke moved here 22 years ago and previously had lived only in large cities. She’s a graduate of UCLA and has lived in New York and San Francisco. Like a lot of other first-time residents, however, she’s come to appreciate our small-town

atmosphere. “In my travels, I tell people all the time, Bakersfield people are the nicest people in the world,” she said. “And it’s true.” Yet she’s eager to start the next chapter in her life and the Santa Barbara lifestyle suits her just fine, personally as well as professionally. “My children went to school there and I’ve always wanted to live there,” she said. “And the museum is right on the water. How can you beat that?” Falke was the winner of The Californian’s Eye Cook contest a couple of years ago and she has continued to help in planning the annual event. Gourmet cooking is her chief hobby so the coastal environment is spot-on for her. “My passion for cooking is huge — huge!” she said. “I love fish and there’s all that fresh produce — it’s a perfect match for me.”

MUSEUM BANKING ON GRANTS Ask Bernie Herman how he feels about Emily Falke’s departure and you’ll get a two-part answer: sad and happy. “I’m very proud of her for her new appointment,” said the Bakersfield Art Museum’s executive director and CEO. “Sad because she has brought a lot of energy that has (benefitted) the museum and the city.” As chief curator, Falke has done much more than merely plan exhibits, or as Herman puts it, “Her finger is on everything.” In addition to a broad knowledge of fine art, she has handled the many details that precede putting up an exhibit, hanging the exhibit, a major job in itself, maintaining the museum’s permanent collection and helping with

fundraising events. And raising money is vital to the museum’s existence. Two-thirds of its revenue comes from contributions and grants, Herman said. However total revenue was down by $200,000 in 2009-10. Herman is taking that shortfall into consideration for the coming fiscal year that begins on July 1, with a proposed budget of a little over $700,000. “We’ve maintained ourselves in the black in the last year,” Herman said, partly by reducing hours and cutting two part-time positions. “The budget is a challenge for us, as it is for all arts and cultural organizations. We’re projecting a loss of operating income for next year.” Built into the new budget are two grants that have not yet been approved.

One is a $100,000 grant from the Irvine Foundation, the other, $50,000 from the county. The museum receives no funds from the city. “The key is the Irvine grant — that should come through in October,”Herman said. “Hopefully the county grant will come through too.” The museum has 1,100 members, which Herman considers a painfully small number considering the metropolitan Bakersfield population of more than 400,000. “With the money from the Irvine grant we plan to hire a consultant to do a pilot study on our programs and other things we’re doing,” he said. “From that we’ll design future events to help build our audience.”

Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Old Chesnutt? Nah, singer vows new things at show

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fter 30 years of performing, you’d think Mark Chesnutt has no new musical roads to travel. And you’d be wrong. Working on his new album, “Outlaw,” even Chesnutt was a little surprised. The album features Chesnutt’s versions of many songs he grew up listening to, but hadn’t performed: songs by Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams, Jr. and others, including “Sunday Morning Coming Down,” “Lovin’ Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” and “Whisky Bent & Hell Bound.” Chesnutt said singing these songs is a lot different from listening to them. “I was a little concerned,” Chesnutt said. “I didn’t know how my version would measure up to those classic versions. I’d listened to these songs but I thought they really weren’t my style.” But Chesnutt said in singing the songs, he learned something. “I realized these songs are really really great,” Chesnutt said. “These guys are something. These guys are poets.” Chesnutt will perform at the Crystal Palace tonight, starting at 8. He said his show will be an “acoustic set.” “It’s fun for the audience to hear a stripped-down version of the songs, plus we get to talk to the audience,” Chesnutt said. Chesnutt said he takes requests at acoustic shows, even if he and his band don’t really know the song. “We’ll give it a shot, and we’ll see what happens,” Chesnutt said. Even recording “Outlaw” was a new adventure for Chesnutt, who has a large collection of gold and platinum records and various awards he has earned over the decades. While Ches-

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK CHESNUTT

Mark Chesnutt plans to perform an acoustic set during his appearance tonight at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace.

Mark Chesnutt When: 8 tonight Where: Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Admission: $23.50 to $33.50, available through Vallitix and Crystal Palace Box Office, 3287560.

nutt has famously stayed near home in Texas, he has traditionally recorded in Nashville. But for “Outlaw,” Chesnutt came to Los Angeles of all places to work with guitarist and producer Pete Anderson. “Pete captures your performance,”

Chesnutt said. “He’s not worried about perfection, he’s concerned about the performance and its soul.” “If you make it too perfect, you lose all that. You might get a perfect recording but you lose the soul.” Chesnutt said he and Anderson worked differently from the four-hour, multi-tasking studio standard, instead coming in at night and recording until they were through. He said his part of the recording “Outlaw” took two nights of production. “I liked that better because it felt like I was the only project Pete was working on,” Chesnutt said.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN ... AND AGAIN Even if Mark Chesnutt didn’t have a new album to promote, he’d still be touring this summer. “I don’t have a CD out every year, but I tour every year,” Chesnutt said. “All over the world.” This summer, Chesnutt does have a CD to promote, “Outlaw” on the Saguaro Road Record label. But that is incidential to the tour. “I doesn’t matter whether I have a hit record or not,” Chesnutt said. So I asked him: Do you consider yourself a performing artist who occasionally records, or a recording artist who performs? “I never thought about it that way,” Chesnutt said. “But that’s exactly right: I am a performing artist who occasionally records.” Chesnutt is already jumping

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around the United States and Canada on a summer tour that includes the Crystal Palace this evening. Performing is what he’s been doing since he was about 16 years old, growing up in Beaumont, Texas. “I told my daddy I wanted to go sing in some clubs,” Chesnutt said. Chesnutt’s father, Bob, who was also a performing musician, took the young Mark along on gigs. After a couple of years, Chesnutt said he wanted to go to Nashville. “My daddy said, ‘Son, if you move to Nashville you’ll just be one of a thousand great singers,’” Chesnutt recalled. “ ‘You won’t be able to make a living — you’ll have to get a day job and you’ll see your music get set aside.” Then came the hardest advice for a teenaged boy to hear: Be patient.

“My daddy said, ‘You just keep (performing in Texas) and one of these days you’ll get the attention of one of the labels,’” Chesnutt said. Chesnutt said he made a very good living playing as much as seven nights a week in Texas clubs. His growing regional reputation ultimately did attract the attention on record executives, who traveled to Beaumont to hear the young performer. Chesnutt signed with MCA. “Daddy was right,” Chesnutt said. “He passed away right after my first hit record,” Chesnutt said. “Everything he told me would happen in my career happened.” “I’m just grateful I had a daddy who was so supportive,” Chesnutt said. — Susan Scaffidi

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Throwdown tidbits kitchen grease.

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Matt’s picks

ast Friday’s Country Throwdown at Rabobank managed to rock the house as planned, I hope. Although the show kicked off while most of Bakersfield was still at work at 1 p.m., I did manage to catch a quick glimpse later in the day. Walking into the theater at 5 p.m., I caught Cali-country singer Heidi Newfield singing (and stage diving) away much to the delight of die-hard fans. The beer line was growing and a steady stream of cowboy hats began herding in as 6 p.m. drew near. Unfortunately, I missed the “Bluebird Café” stage performances along with most of Bakersfield earlier in the day. I also couldn’t catch the rest of the performances due to a scheduling conflict. But based on what I read via Facebook and Twitter, the locals seemed to have a good time into the evening with Montgomery Gentry and Jamey Johnson getting rave reviews. Hopefully, next year’s stop will be on a Saturday, so workin’ folks like myself and others can plan accordingly. Speaking of conflicting plans … Two comedy shows go head to head this Saturday. First it’s “Laughter Comedy” with funnymen Dane Forst, Joe Alaniz, Chase Brockett, Brian Ross and Ernesto Gomez at Desi Café, 4837 Panama Lane. That show kicks off with an 8 p.m. open mic hour. I’ve seen them all, with the exception of Gomez — but with a face like that, he has to

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANNY MALDONADO

Manny Maldonado will be among the comedians performing on Saturday night at Fishlips.

be funny. Over at Fishlips downtown, comedian Manny Maldonado is live with Bako’s own Jim Trino, Ro Delle Grazie and more. That show kicks off at 8 p.m. too, so if you’re struggling with which show to attend, flip a coin. Summertime means the VANS Warped Tour is here again, hitting SoCal tomorrow in Carson at the Home Depot Center, and then Sunday in Ventura at Seaside Park. This year’s lineup is as eclectic as ever with Alkaline Trio, Eyes Set To Kill, The Adolescents (a Rockin’ Roots no-show,) Voodoo Glow Skulls, alongside some odd bookings (Sum 41, Andrew WK,) and tons more. Looking to avoid this weekend’s heat? Catch the Ventura show like most of Bakersfield will, and enjoy some mid-60 coolness. If you can’t leave town, Sandrini’s in downtown celebrates its fifth anniversary tomorrow night with music from Velorio at 9 p.m. Back from a weeklong tour to Oregon, the band managed to make it home safely aboard their touring vessel — a converted shortbus that runs on restaurant

Les Dudek at Fishlips, 8 p.m. today, $20, 324-2557. Famous for his stint with the Allman Brothers Band, where he played lead guitar on “Ramblin’ Man,” Dudek’s been around. From the Steve Miller Band to Boz Skaggs and more, his bluesy riffs are highly recommended. Jeffree Star and Brokencyde at Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., 6 p.m., Thursday, $17, 633-1000. If you’re into the bizarre and unusual, this is the show for you. Part alien, Jeffree’s music is pure debauchery with titles like “Eyelash Curlers & Butcher Knives,” and “Plastic Surgery Slumber Party.” Not recommended for a first date. Blood, Spit, and Tears art show at Sacred Gypsy Tattoo, 826 18th St., 7 p.m., Saturday, $7, 323-7179. Check out some great tattoo art from some of the area’s best inksters, plus plenty of local outsider art from Kritty and more. There’s also music from Backup Johnny, Il Sogno, The Indians and DJ Josex, who specializes in all things “darkside.” Last event they had was packed, so don’t be late!

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Preview of Nick13 show at Fishlips on June 30 In-studio performance by Keaton York Local paparazzo Xavier Zamora of Prankstars

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.

JAZZ IT UP SUNDAY AT LAST CONCERT IN BEALE SUMMER SERIES THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Beale Memorial Park ends its monthlong series of free concerts this Sunday with Bakersfield’s Jazz Couriers ensemble. Led by drummer Dan Murillo, the Jazz Couriers also features CSUB’s Doug Davis on piano; bassist Glenn Fong; trumpeter Mike Raney, trumpet; Roy Medina on congas, saxophonist Isaiah Morfin; and guitarist Paul Cierley. The band will be performing a collection of jazz and pop standards along with original compositions in

been performing for decades, went into action. She collected enough funds to keep Who: The Jazz Couriers the 71-year-old concert tradition alive, When: 8 p.m. Sunday although the large band was replaced Where: Beale Memorial Park, by smaller ensembles — a clarinet 500 Oleander Ave. choir, the Southside Chicago Seven, Brass a la Carte and the Jazz Couriers Information: 323-7928 — for the four June shows. Although the city didn’t sponsor any of these various ensembles forms. concerts, it provided a sound system After the city voted to cut funding and custodial service for the events. totalling $17,000 for the summer Blankets, lawn chairs, and a picnic band program in March, Cyndi Hicks, are welcome. Early arrival is recommanager of the concert band that has mended.

Free concert

Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

G R A N D O P E N I N G C E L E B R AT I O N

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of our new facility

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Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

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For more information visit our website: chavezfoundation.org or contact Monica Parra Tel: (661) 823-6271 email mparra@nfwsc.org

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ou can learn to dance at any age, says instructor Barbara Bates, but empty nesters seem to get the biggest kick out of it. “I’ve taught people from 6 to 86 but the average age tends to be 40 to 45,” said Bates, who teaches ballroom dancing at the Greenacres Community Center. “The kids are out of the house and people get to do what they missed out when they were younger.” The popular television show “Dancing with the Stars” has been the impetus for a lot of her students. In 2005, the first season of the show, 60 people signed up for her class. However, the classes she teaches are designed to teach basic skills and do not include the intricate choreography performed by dancers on “Stars,” many of whom are professionals. “I really admire people who do that show,” Bates added. “They have to work really hard from 8 to 10 hours a day to prepare for a performance.” Most of the people she instructs simply want to learn new steps or to polish their skills, and most of all, just have a good time doing it. Two of Bates’ satisfied students are Tony Shackleford, who owns a weed control business, and his wife, Joan Shackleford, a registered nurse. Tony said he got interested in taking lessons after seeing the film “Shall We Dance,” starring Richard Gere. “We started about six years ago,” Tony said. “Sometimes we take a break for a few weeks but we just keep coming back because we have so much fun.” Their enthusiasm for dancing inspired the Shacklefords to organize a Saturday night dance with a 1950s theme at their church, St. John’s Lutheran. The recorded music will be mostly from the big band swing era. “It’s mostly East Coast swing or jitterbug,” he said. “And it includes a 45minute (dance) lesson — all for only a buck.” In addition to jitterbugging, Bates teaches many other dance styles, including the fox trot, waltz, Argentine tango, samba, rumba, country twostep and the nightclub two step, a dance that’s “fairly new and very popular right now.” Her current six-week class began last night at Greenacres but people can still register for it. Average class size is

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Ballroom dance instructors Barbara Bates and Lou Taylor, right, along with students Tony and Joan Shackleford, left, demonstrate some of their dance moves at the Greenacres Community Center.

GO & DO ‘Rockin’ Back the Clock Dance’ When: 7 p.m. Saturday Where: St. John’s Lutheran Church, 4500 Buena Vista Road Admission: $1 Information: 588-9680 Ballroom dancing class When: 6:30 to 7:25 p.m. Wednesday Where: Greenacres Community Center, 2014 Calloway Drive Cost: $44; $34 for NOR residents Information: 392-2010 Henry ‘Hank’ Washington exhibit When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Friday Where: Community Trust Credit Union, 2100 H St. Admission: Free Information: 395-3032

about 10 students and you don’t have to come as a couple — singles are welcome, too. The program is sponsored by the NOR Recreation and Parks District Bates has been teaching informally since she was about 16 and took her first formal lessons at the old Arthur Murray Studio location at 18th and H streets across from the Padre Hotel. “It had a beautiful hardwood floor,” she recalled. “It was upstairs, above Judd’s, a really nice dress shop that used to be there.” Although Bates hasn’t appeared onstage in local musicals, she and her partner, Lou Taylor, occasionally perform for private groups. She also

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

instructs privately. Lately this has involved two, and sometimes three, generations of a family who are planning a wedding. “It’s quite common these days, at the reception, for the bride and groom to dance by themselves first,” she explained. “And then the parents and grandparents get out on the floor.”

Hank Washington exhibit If you happen to be in the downtown area, I urge you to stop by Community Trust Credit Union and take a look at an exhibit of acrylic paintings by Henry “Hank” Washington. Washington, who teaches art at South High School, has a powerful style. His artwork is notable for a rich blend of colors and a technique of texturing that resembles pointillism. I first met the artist in May when I interviewed him and his student Andrew Frausto, who won a top award from the California Art Educators Association. At the time, Washington mentioned that he liked to paint faces and that’s evident in two of portraits at the bank: “Sister,” and “Sisters of Color.” These are tremendously expressive faces that emit a sort of golden glow and gave me a feeling that each had a story I’d like to hear. Equally impressive is a “He ain’t Heavy,” which depicts a young girl with a proud but defiant look on her face who is carrying her little brother in a sling on her back. Arts Council of Kern is sponsor of the exhibit. It will be up through June 30.

Shakespeare auditions Director Bob Kempf, who was active in the defunct Kern Shakespeare Festival during its 25-year run, is holding tryouts for a production of “As You Like It” at The Empty Space this weekend. Auditions are open to the public and will consist of readings from the play. Prepared monologues are welcome. Rehearsals begin July 18; performances are scheduled for Sept. 9 through Oct. 2.

BANG!

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010

Eye Street

A real Field Day for amateur radio BY MARK E. SLATER Contributing writer

There’s something coming over the airwaves this weekend, but don’t be alarmed. Kern County Central Valley Amateur Radio Club is taking part in the annual Field Day event, which is held locally at College Park. Held the fourth full weekend of June, beginning at 1800 UTC Saturday and ending at 1800 UTC Sunday (that’s 11 a.m. Saturday to 11 a.m. Sunday in Coordinated Universal Time, for those not in the know), Field Day is a large-scale emergency preparedness exercise for amateur radio operators from the United States and Canada. Operators set up and run portable stations using emergency power, trying to maintain reliable communications by contacting as many other amateur stations as possible during the 24-hour period. Using improvised field conditions and operating independent of commercial power helps participants simulate the conditions of an emergency situation.This exercise tests the users, their equipment and helps them improve their operating skills. There is something at Field Day for everyone. Whether your interest lies in learning how to set up a portable or emergency station, how to operate HF (high frequency), satellites operations, digital modes, CW (continuous wave), or just socializing with other hams, Field Day is the place to get it all at once in one weekend. Field Day is "the most fun you can have with ham radio" in one day. Even if you don’t belong to the club or have a license, you can participate. The club will provide a tour of the site, and if you are interested will show you everything that you need to know to get on the air. Now is the time to see what amateur radio and Field Day is all about.

Field Day What: Gathering of amateur radio operators testing their communication skills with others around the U.S. and Canada. The local day is organized by the Kern County Central Valley Amateur Radio Club. When: All day Saturday starting at 11 a.m. Where: College Park, across from Bakersfield College Information: arrl.org/field-day

Field Day is open to all, amateur or not, using any and all amateur bands (excluding the 60, 30, 17, and 12-meter bands), and using as many modes of radio communications as possible. Besides the training aspect of Field Day it is also to acquaint the general public with the capabilities of amateur radio. Another nice part about Field Day for the novice or technician class operators or operators without a station of their own is a chance to get on the air or get on the air out of the restriction of their current license class. The Field Day use of the High Frequency bands that offers a taste of DX’ing to the Novice and Technician operator. Also, you may get to operate a mode or modes that you have not tried or given a thought about before. The local club will be using the club call W6LIE and will probably be running something like 5A or 6A. The W6LIE Field Day operation will be held on the lawn at College Park, Panorama Drive and Mount Vernon Avenue across the street from Bakersfield College and next to the County Communication Center. Mark E. Slater is the president of the Kern County Central Valley Amateur Radio Club.

CONTEST KEEPS THINGS INTERESTING Started in the 1930s, Field Day had been evolving ever since. A contest adds to the fun and helps classify the stations. Stations earn points for each contact made. Stations are classified by the number of transmitters on the air and the type of Field Day operations. Class A - Club / Non-Club Portable

Class A - Battery - Club / Non-Club Portable Class B - Club / Non-Club Portable 1 or 2 operators Class C - Mobile Class D - Home - Commercial Power Class E - Home - Emergency Power Class F - Emergency Operation Center

FAMILY MOVIES IN THE PARK Looking for something to do with the kids this weekend? Check out the NOR Neighborhood Flicks on Saturday. At North Meadows Park, 3300 McCray St., they’ll be showing “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” at 8 p.m. If live action is more your speed, take the family to see “The Blind Side,” also at 8 p.m., at Greenacres Park, 2014 Calloway Drive. Both events are free. Call 392-2000 for more information.

WARNER BROS. PICTURES

Sandra Bullock stars in “The Blind Side.”

Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Embrace the mud for a good cause BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

SEAN WORK / THE CALIFORNIAN

Anthony Grant of Bakersfield revs the engine of “Opal,” his 1967 Camaro, which he named after his grandmother. Grant brought his car out to Hooters last Thursday for Summer Car Nights, a weekly car show that will continue through the summer.

Roll out your best set of wheels at Hooters Thursday nights are Summer Car Nights BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

ome one, come all: If you’re a car enthusiast, put rubber to the road and make Hooters your Thursday night destination. The Rosedale Highway restaurant/bar, which started up Summer Car Nights last week, asks anyone with a classic — or any ride that deserves a little appreciation — to put it on display. Manager Eunice Renteria hopes Summer Car Nights will put Hooters ahead of the pack when it comes to weekday events: “We wanted to do something different,

Summer Car Nights When: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays Where: Hooters, 4208 Rosedale Highway Information: 634-9464

something that not everyone else is doing. A car night is something we know the community will get behind and we can be proud to have our name on.” Bakersfield is a hotbed for car enthusiasts, and the Rosedale Highway location of Hooters does not lack for exposure. Portions of the parking lot that sit on the roadway will be reserved for those showing their vehicles. The spot will allow passers-by a full view of the glitz and glamour, putting the efforts of the car owners

on center stage. Aside from the hot cars, hot food and hot waitresses, Hooters is offering more incentives to come out by giving away trips to Las Vegas through the summer. Winners will be put up in the Hooters Hotel, a $100 gas card in their hands. Those who show their vehicles will also be given a 15 percent discount card to be used during future trips to the restaurant. If you think Thursday night is just the lull before the weekend, Renteria hopes to change that mindset. “Thursday nights should be when the party starts. You may take it a little easy and save yourself for Friday, but Thursday is the day to kick off the weekend!” Summer Car Nights runs through Aug. 26.

To make it in this game, you need guts, a sense of fun ... as well as duct tape and a disposable outfit. That’s what it takes to get down and dirty at the 18th annual Kern County Epilepsy Society Mud Volleyball Tournament, taking place Saturday at Stramler Park. For those who have never hit the muddy courts, be prepared to embrace the mud, says Doug Valdez, officer manager for the Kern County Epilepsy Society. “Wear something you don't plan on wearing again! You will be covered head to toe in mud, plan on it.” Valdez is not exaggerating. The double elimination tournament takes place under the sun and in ankle-deep, muddy water in the volleyball courts adjacent to Stramler Park. With such conditions, players will walk away completely covered in mud, but maybe minus their shoes. Player Scott Frasnelly, vice president of marketing for the Bakersfield Condors — which has a team at the event every year — has a strategy for foot protection. “I am mostly worried about my shoes staying on my feet. I think I am going to go with water socks and duct tape. It sounds crazy but that's what you have to do to keep your shoes from getting left in the muck.” Frasnelly is not alone. Rolls of duct tape can be found in every tent surrounding the courts, and veteran competitors are not shy when it comes to wrapping the silver cure-all around their shoes and up their calves to keep their footwear firmly in place. The tournament starts with check-in at 7:30 Saturday morning, with games kicking off at 8:30 a.m. Teams must contain six to 10 members and two women are required to be on the courts at

18th annual Kern County Epilepsy Society's Mud Volleyball Tournament When: Check-in is at 7:30 with games at 8:30 a.m. Saturday Where: Stramler Park 3805 Chester Ave. Registration fee: $375 per team (six to 10 members). Proceeds benefit the Kern County Epilepsy Society and its programs Enter at: epilepsysocietyofkern.org/ SurfandTurfVolleyball.asp

all times. Proceeds from the event go to the KCES to help fund their many programs. Valdez says the organization not only provides care for those living with epilepsy, but also covers education and prevention. “The money we raise from this event helps us to go out into the community. We go to schools and talk about epilepsy and help people open up about the condition. We also provide car seats to lowincome families. Injuries from car accidents can lead to seizure disorders, and we want to do what we can to stop that from happening.” Food and refreshments will be sold during the competition. But competitors have the option of renting a space around the courts where they can set up tents for shade and seating for tailgating. With downtime for players between the games, Valdez says the day has become less about competition and more about having a good time. “We all become like friends and family. We are out there to have a good time and it's definitely a great party.”

Acclaimed gospel singer Marvin Sapp to perform at Fox Theater THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Award-winning gospel singer Marvin Sapp is bringing his soulful sound to the Fox Theater on Wednesday night. A critically acclaimed singersongwriter, Sapp gained prominence as a member of legendary gospel super-group Commissioned, along with vocalist/bassist Fred Hammond during the ’90s.

Releasing seven solo albums in the contemporary gospel genre, Sapp first experienced crossover success on the R&B/Hip-Hop Billboard charts in 2007 with his album “Thirsty.” Selling more than 500,000 copies, his follow-up, last year’s “Here I Am,” debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 200, making it the highest charting album ever by

a gospel artist. Of “Here I Am,” Sapp says it taps into a familiar theme very important to him: that all are worthy in God’s eyes. “It’s for anybody that’s ever been told, ‘You’ll never be anything,’ or anyone who acknowledges that they have made a mistake in life,” Sapp said. God “sees the best in you when everyone else sees the worst.”

Singing since the age of 4, Sapp has been the recipient of Stellar Awards and a Gospel Music Excellence Award and has been nominated for Grammy, Soul Train Music and Dove awards. Also on the lineup is special guest Tonya Austin. For more information about the show, call the Fox Theater at 3241369.

Marvin Sapp When: 7 p.m. Wednesday Where: Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. Admission: $39.50, $44.50 and $54.50 Information: 324-1369

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010

Eye Street

Q&A: Author reveals his vampire secrets BY STEFANI DIAS

Book signing

Californian Assistant Lifestyles Editor sdias@bakersfield.com

With author Christopher Farnsworth of “Blood Oath” When: 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday Where: Russo’s Books, 9000 Ming Ave. Information: 665-4686

or all the Twi-hards in town, “Eclipse” is less than a week away. But for those who don’t think vampires can have a heart of gold or should woo teenagers, Christopher Farnsworth has something different for you. The Los Angeles screenwriter will be signing copies of his vampire tale “Blood Oath,” at Russo’s Books on Saturday. Farnsworth’s first novel, which has been described as “24” with vampires, follows the adventures of Nathaniel Cade, the “president’s vampire,” who, much like Jack Bauer, operates using any means necessary to protect the United States, along with the help of his new handler, Zach Barrows. Although it has only been out a month, the book has generated quite a buzz, especially locally. Russo’s Books manager Jason Frost read an advance copy and says he “was smitten like a teeny-bopper is with Justin Bieber.” He convinced Farnsworth to include Bakersfield at the end of his cross-country book tour. In advance of his visit Saturday, Farnsworth answered a few questions about vampires, his book and Bakersfield. Vampires are everywhere right now — movies, books, TV — and although you’ve said you don’t like vampires, is there anything vampire-related out in

PHOTO COURTESY OF DANIEL REICHERT

Christopher Farnsworth, author of “Blood Oath,” will hold a book signing Saturday at Russo’s Books. pop culture now that you’ve thought was inventive or interesting? While I don’t like vampires — the first nightmare I ever had was about a vampire and they still scare me — I’m still fascinated by them, and always looking for new twists on the genre. I love the Joe Pitt books by Charlie Huston, which looks at vamps through the lens of a crime novel. I’ve just

started “The Passage” by Justin Cronin, and I’m fascinated by both his elegant writing and the idea of a vampire-themed apocalypse. I love the HBO series “True Blood,” which just gets better with each episode. And I’m reading “American Vampire,” a comic-book series by Scott Snyder and Stephen King, which has the intriguing concept of a unique strain of home-grown vampirism. So you’ve admitted you’re scared of vampires and that yours, Cade, should never be thought of as “the good guy.” Why do you think other current tales have tried to make vampires more warm and fuzzy? We’re scared of so much in the world right now that I think we find it comforting to have monsters on our side. It’s hard enough dealing with the thought of terrorism, biological weapons, swine flu, and rogue nuclear states. We need to tame our fears in order to get through the day. Have you been to Bakersfield before? If so, why? Aside from one memorable traffic stop — for the record, they found nothing when they searched the car — I’ve never been to Bakersfield. But that’s changing now that I’ve connected with Russo’s Books. Most of my sales have come from independent booksellers, and it’s because of stores like Russo’s and booksellers like Jason Frost. He got in touch with me as soon as he read the advance copy and showed an almost bloodthirsty zeal for the novel. Faced with that kind of response, I had to visit. Do you have any local plans before or after the signing? I’m going to buy Jason the biggest steak he can consume. Suggestions for a good steakhouse are always welcome. You say it’s key for aspiring writers to get out and “get a life.” With an eye on Bakersfield, what would you recommend they go out and do? Pretty much anything. Any experience can become grist for the mill of writing, but the first and most important thing to do is to get out the door and experience it. The Internet makes it easier than ever for writers to stay inside at recess and avoid the playground, and I’m as guilty of that as anyone. But it can also give you good ideas for a place you’ve never been — like Bakersfield, say. I had no idea there was a stealth fighter that crashed near town in the 1980s. (Or maybe that’s just the cover story.) Or that the whole town is apparently haunted. Or that Ronald Reagan saw a UFO in the sky there. (All according to online reports.) Every place has a story. You’ve just got to

find it. What are you reading right now? I just finished “This Will Kill You,” which is a compendium of all the ways human beings can die, and “The Ark,” by Boyd Morrison, which is a thriller about an engineer who gets entangled in a conspiracy surrounding Noah’s Ark. Next up is “Stories,” edited by Neil Gaiman, and “The Whisperers” by John Connolly. Random question: Would you rather be a zombie or a vampire? Vampire. No contest. Zombies are braindead, shuffling, decaying, mindless consumers. There’s nothing at all attractive about that. Whereas, vampires have almost no downside any more. You mention among your inspirations many in the comic book/graphic novel world. Have you considered an illustrated version of “Blood Oath” or future tales? I hope to do something with one of the comic companies, and I’m talking to them. As a kid, I wanted to grow up to write comics. I’ve been a reporter, screenwriter and now novelist. It’s been a long way around, but I’m getting closer. We’re the last stop on this tour, and we’re honored. Is it because we’re so close to home or is there a more exciting reason? It’s because Bakersfield is close to home and because of Jason at Russo’s. I’ll go almost anywhere they’ll have me, but he made me feel like Bakersfield would really welcome me. You wrote this during the writers strike, when you couldn’t write it as a script. Now that’s it’s completed, what are you plans to take it to the big screen? The novel and the second book in the series have actually been optioned for film by Lucas Foster, who produced “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” and “Law-Abiding Citizen,” among many others. I like Lucas, and I think he’s going to turn it into a great movie. It’s still very early, but I’m really looking forward to it. (Farnsworth has said he’d be interested in Christian Bale as Cade and Justin Long as Zach.) You’re working on a follow-up now. Are you envisioning this to be a longrunning series? What is your favorite book series? I’ve got ideas for the first 10 books pretty well fleshed out. After that, I have scraps of paper with some random notes. So we’ll see how far I can get. As for my favorite series, John Sandford’s “Prey” books still manage to knock it out of the park regularly. I hope to have as long and productive a run as his. Is the second book your next big project or is there something else in the works? The second book in the series, “Black Site,” is taking up all my time right now. After that, I need to get to work on book number three. I’m on a pretty tight schedule. But I’m lucky in that I really enjoy playing around in this world. I have a lot of fun with these stories, and I can see living with these characters — so to speak — for a long, long time.

Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

PHOTO COURTESY OF TRACY HUNTER

The Twilight “cast” will be available for photos with donors at Friday’s blood drive.

Tapping ‘Twilight’ vein for young blood donors BY TRACY HUNTER Contributing writer

As throngs of teens eagerly await next week’s midnight premiere of the vampireromance movie “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse,” Houchin Community Blood Bank offers some of those young fans a chance to help a worthy cause. In anticipation of the premiere, and to celebrate local 16-year-olds new ability to donate blood (with parental consent), Houchin has put together a “Twilight Evening Blood Drive” on Friday from 5 to 10 p.m. There will be decorations similar to scenes from the Twilight series books and photos with a cardboard “cast,” plus free food and drawings for prizes. “Summer is a time when blood donations decline because school is out,” notes Houchin President and CEO Greg Gallion. “Our hope is the ‘newly able to donate’ 16year-olds will see this as a fun opportunity for community service that will help save lives.” High school students comprise one-third of all blood donated in Kern County. During the 2009-2010 school year, Houchin held 62 blood drives yielding 4,880 units of blood. High school seniors comprised 45 percent of all students donating during the school year.

‘Twilight Evening Blood Drive’ When: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday Where: Houchin Community Blood Bank, 5901 Truxtun Ave. Information: Call Tracy Hunter at 3234222. To download parental consent forms for 16-year-old donors, go to hcbb.com

To donate, 16-year-olds must have valid picture ID, proof of birth date, and a consent form signed by a parent or guardian. Forms are available online at hcbb.com or can be picked up at the blood bank prior to the event. The blood drive is open to all, whether teen or adult Twilight fans. The first 75 donors will receive a buy-one-get-one-free movie pass donated by Reading Cinema. The grand prizes will be Team Edward and Team Jacob gift boxes that include two of the much-coveted tickets to the midnight premiere, as well as Twilight T-shirts, calendars, book bags and more. Tracy Hunter is an account manager in the Community Development Department at Houchin Community Blood Bank. She coordinates community blood drives and can be reached at 323-4222.

Calling all artists for Latination submissions THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Metro Galleries is currently accepting applications and art submissions for inclusion in this year's Latination II art show, opening Sept. 3 during First Friday at Metro. The show, a celebration and exploration of Latino life, is co-sponsored by MAS Magazine. Original Latin-themed art pieces in the form of painting, pottery, sculpture, photography, glass and mixed media will be accepted for selection. Deadline for entries is Aug. 13, followed

by jury and notification later in the month. Cash prizes for best of show, first and second place and a student category will be awarded to winners. The Sept. 3 opening reception begins at 5 p.m. and will include live music and hors d'oeuvres. For more information, please contact Metro Galleries director Don Martin at 6349598. Downloadable applications can also be found online at themetrogalleries.com/ The exhibit runs through Sept. 25.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010

Eye Street GO & DO Today Adult Book Discussion, on “Dead Until Dark,” 11:15 a.m., Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0745. An Evening with Les Dudek, 8 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $20 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Bakersfield Blaze vs. Visalia Rawhide, 7:45 p.m. today through Sunday, Sam Lynn Ball Park, 4009 Chester Ave. $5 to $9. 716-HITS or bakersfieldblaze.com. Bakersfield Raider Nation Club, meeting to discuss upcoming events, 6 p.m., Jastro Park, 2900 Truxtun Ave. 340-7167 or bakersfieldraidernationclub.com. Concerts by The Fountain, favorite Beatles hits with The Beagles, 7 to 9 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. Hooters “Summer Car Nights,” open to all car and truck enthusiasts, 6 to 8 p.m., Thursdays through Aug. 26, Hooters, 4208 Rosedale Highway. 327-9711 ext. 242. “Make A Splash” Summer Reading Program, at all Kern County Libraries, now through July 31. kerncountylibrary.org. Mark Chesnutt, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $23.50 to $33.50 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Pasta Bar/Meet and Greet, meet Tony Porras of Gallo wines and enjoy a pasta dinner, 5 to 8 p.m., Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. $15 to taste all seven wines; or $15 for pasta, Caesar salad and glass of red or white wine. 633-WINE.

“The Fisherman’s Wife,” presented by the Omnipresent Puppet Theater, 1 p.m., McFarland Branch Library, 500 W. Kern Ave, McFarland. 858-0831.

Friday Luau Swim, for first family fun night of the summer, with hula hoop contest, limbo contest, 6 to 9 p.m., McMurtrey Aquatic Center, 1325 Q St. $3 person; $10 per family. 852-7430. Monty Byrom, & the Buckaroos, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $5. 328-7560 or buckowens.com. “The Fisherman’s Wife,” presented by the Omnipresent Puppet Theater, 3 p.m., Tehachapi Branch Library, 1001 W. W. Tehachapi Blvd., Suite A-400, Tehachapi. 858-0831. Wine Bar Flight, featuring a visit to Tuscany, 2005 Ruffino Riserva Ducale, 2004 Lagerla Brunello and more, 4 p.m., Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140. Wine Tasting, includes 15-20 different wines and appetizers, 5 to 8 p.m., Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway. $25 per person. 834-4433. Yard Sale & Car Wash Fundraiser, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Name Your Price Thrift Store, 212 21st St.

Saturday 18th annual Mud Volleyball Tournament, begins at 8:30 a.m., Stramler Park, 3805 Chester Ave. $375 per team. 634-9810 or epilepsysocietykc.org. 2010 Caring for the Caregiver, hosted by Alzheimer’s Disease

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Association of Kern County; for caregivers, professionals and family members, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Olive Drive Church, Building #9, 5500 Olive Drive. Free. Lunch will be served. 393-8871 ext. 14. 73rd annual Sheepmen’s Picnic, sponsored by the Kern County Wool Growers Association; lamb barbecue lunch noon to 2 p.m., followed by kids’ games, gifts, prizes and musical entertainment, Kern County Basque Club, 2301 S. Union Ave. 327-3031. Book signing, with author Christopher Farnsworth of “Blood Oath,” 1 to 3 p.m., Russo’s Books, 9000 Ming Ave. 665-4686. Certified Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St. Certified Organic Farmers Market, Artisan and Merchant Fair, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Caffeine Supreme lawn area, corner of F and 20th streets. 805-0430. 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. Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road. Kern County European Travel Club, will have an orientation at 10 a.m. for “The Footsteps of Apostle Tour,” traveling to Greece/Turkey, call Jim Engel at 399-6507 for more details. Kern River Valley Hiking Club, Telescope Peak Death Valley National Park, Saturday is a travel day to the campsite, hike Sunday. Bring lunch and 2 quarts of water. Dress appropriately. For directions, visit lakeisabella.net/hiking or 760379-1933. Kids Free Day, last Saturday of every month, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 872-2256. Laughter Comedy Show, featuring Dane Forst, Joe Alaniz, Chase Brockett, Brian Ross and Ernesto Gomez, 8 p.m., Buddha Lounge at Desi Cafe, 4837 Panama Lane. $10. 835-8400. Live Jazz & Wine Bar, with Steve Eisen and friends, 6 to 8 p.m., Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. 633-WINE. Manny Maldonado, with Jim Trino and special guests, 8 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $15 plus fee; 21 and over only. vallitix.com or 322-5200. NOR Neighborhood Flicks, “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs,” rated PG, 8 p.m., North Meadows Park, 3300 McCray St. Free. 392-2000. NOR Neighborhood Flicks, “The Blind Side,” rated PG, 8 p.m., Greenacres Park, 2014 Calloway Drive. Free. 392-2000. 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. Summer Lecture Series: Archaeology, Up Close & Personal, 6 p.m., Tehachapi Museum, 310 S. Green St. $15. 822-8152. “The Fisherman’s Wife,” presented by the Omnipresent Puppet Theater, 2 p.m., Northeast Branch, 3725 Columbus St. 858-0831.

Sunday Music in the Park, with The Jazz Couriers, 8 p.m., Beale Park, Oleander Avenue between Dracena and Palm streets. Free. 323-7928.

THEATER “Seussical Jr.,” for ages 6 to 18: morning session from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Thursday, now until July 15; afternoon session from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, now until July 8; Bakersfield Music Theatre School of Performing Arts, 1927 Eye St. 716-0316 or 325-6100. “Melon Colony,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. 327-PLAY. Major League Improv, improvisational comedy show, appropriate for families, 6 p.m. Saturdays, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Free but donations are accepted. 327-PLAY.

ART “Art Inspired by the Padre Hotel, Inside & Outside,” now on display until Saturday, The Art Center, 1817 Eye St. Open Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 869-2320. Exhibit on Display, “The Masterworks of Western Paintings,” “Best of the West: Bakersfield Collects,” and paintings by Aron Wiesenfeld, on display until Aug. 22, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. bmoa.org or 323-7219. “Fashion Forward” Art Exhibit, by appointment only, on display until Aug. 5, The Micro Gallery, 6300 Coffee Road. 301-3283. Berta Blackburn, featured artist for June, Dagny’s Coffee Co., 1600 20th St. 634-0806. Leslie Vo Villa, the artist for June, The Curiosity Shop, at the Art Express, 1607 19th St. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. 324-7112. Mary Lou Slinkard, featured artist for June, Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. russosbooks.com or 665-4686. “On the Road Again,” group art show on display through August, Bakersfield Mazda, 3201 Cattle Drive. 328-8000. “A Computer Blaze of Colors,” by Bill Tomlinson, on display until July 31, JP Jennings Gallery, 1700 Chester Ave. 323-1622. West High School student artwork, on display through August, The Dream Center & Coffee House, 1212 18th St. 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 324-2402.

MUSIC Acoustic Kern River Brewing Company, 13415 Sierra Highway, Kernville, 760-376-2337; Slideways with guests Bunky Spurling and Joan Fraley, 7:30 to 11 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., Blues Fest Benefit with White Boy James, Lil’ Mike and the Blues Hammers, The Dusk Devils, 2 p.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday, $5. 21 and over. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; John Hollins and friends, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Classic rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Catch 22, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, Park at River Walk, Stockdale Highway and Buena Vista Road, 852-7300; No Limit, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; Del Mar Deluxe, 8 p.m. to midnight Friday and 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday; Two Timers Band, 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday. Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; Sunday Snake Oil, 9 p.m. Saturday. Chuy’s, 2500 New Stine Road, 833-3469; Blonde Faith, 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday. Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Mike Montano Band, 9 p.m. Saturday. T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; The BEAgles, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday. The Monte Carlo, 9750 Taft Highway, 837-0250; No Limit, 9 p.m. Saturday.

Country Trouts & the Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 399-6700:, offers karaoke, line dancing, West Coast Swing among other various activities. Call for times and days. Tejon Club, 117 El Tejon Ave., 3921747; Crossroads, 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday.

Cover Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Chrisanova and friends, 9 p.m. today.

Dancing Joaquin Squares, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Rasmussen Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5. 324-1390, 325-3086 or 399-3658. Folklorico Classes, advance dancers/performing group 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays; and beginners, all

Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street 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, Veterans Hall, 1905 Wilson Road. $6 member; $8 guest. 831-9241. Pairs and Spares Dance, 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 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. 330-9616. 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, Norris Road Veteran’s Hall, 400 Norris Road. whirlaways.org or 398-3394.

DJ B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; 9 p.m. today. Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; DJ, 9 p.m. today. Finish Line Sports Bar & Grill, inside the Red Lion Hotel, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; 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. 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. Tailgaters, 900 Truxtun Ave., Suite 110, 322-9800; 5 to 11 p.m. Tuesday. B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; DJ Mike, 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Jazz Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway., 834-4433; Richie Perez, 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays. Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave., 633-WINE; Jazz Connection with Steve Eisen and Mark Meyer, 6 to 8 p.m. Saturdays.

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. today; happy hour all day with karaoke 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Light it up for the Fourth Ka-boom! We Americans like to light up the sky when we’re feeling patriotic. But now that BC is no longer hosting a fireworks display, more families will probably do their own pyrotechnic thing. Which fireworks to buy? Check out a buyers guide in Sunday Eye. 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. Thursdays. The Wright Place, 2695-G Mount Vernon Ave., 872-8831, 8 p.m. Thursdays. 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/ vinnys_bar. Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 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. Muggs Pub and Eatery, 1306 Airport Drive, 393-2035; 8 p.m. to midnight Fridays. 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. Del Rio Cocktail Lounge, 5840 State Road, 393-0262; 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday. 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. karaoke.

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 Tilted Kilt, 2900 Calloway Drive, 587-6563; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Mondays, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays. 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. 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. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays.

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. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Velorio, 9:30 p.m. Friday. 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 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. Maria Bonita Mexican Restaurant, 10701 Highway 178, 366-3261; Synergy, 9 p.m. Saturday. old school. The Bistro After Dark, 5105 California Ave., 323-3905; Old School Saturdays with Noe G, 10 p.m. Ladies free; $10 cover.

Thursday 7/1

Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., hosted by Robert Spalding, 7 to 11 p.m. Thursdays. myspace.com/vinnys_bar.

Adult Book Discussion, on “Mudbound,” 11:15 a.m., Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0745. Improv Comedy Show, with Center For Improv Attitude group, 7 to 9 p.m., Rocket Shop Cafe, 2000 S. Union Ave. $3 adults; $1 for children under 13. 832-4800. Concerts by The Fountain, oldies, funk, latin and country with Thee Majestics, 7 to 9 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave.

Reggae

Friday 7/2

B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Dub Seeds, 9 p.m. Friday; Mento Buru, DJ Mikey, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5; 21 & over only.

Brenton Wood, doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., Nile Theater, 1721 19th St. $28 plus fee; 21 and over only. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Celebrate America with The Super Sonic Band, 7 to 10 p.m., Fruitvale-Norris Park, 6221 Norris Road. First Friday Downtown, featuring live music, art openings and more, 5 to 9 p.m., Downtown Arts District. 634-9598. Satinder Sartaaj, doors open at 7 p.m., begins at 8 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $25 to $150, tickets can be purchased at all local Indian stores or call Mandeep at 889-1927.

Open mic

Rock Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Elevation 406, 9 p.m. Friday. Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; Big Dawg, 8 p.m. Friday. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; rock DJ, 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., St. John and the Revelations, A Modest Prediction, 9 p.m. Friday, $5. 21 and over. myspace.com/vinnys_bar. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; Missing Autumn, 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

Saturday 7/3

UPCOMING EVENTS

Annual 4th of July Celebration, festivities begin with a barbecue at 6 p.m.; fireworks program begins at 9 p.m., Shafter High School Football Stadium, 526 Mannel Ave., Shafter. 746-2600. Blood Drive at Fireworks Stand VFW Post #97, benefitting Houchin Blood Bank, 8 a.m. to noon, at 5350 S. Union Ave. Enter to win a $100 fireworks package, also receive 25 percent off fireworks when you donate blood. First annual “Hairdressers for Heroes” Fundraiser, 11 a.m., Lyle’s Beauty College of Beauty, 2935 F St. 327-9784. Shaila Durcal & Mariachi Sol de Mexico, 8 p.m., Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $42.25 to $147.25 plus fee. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. Star Spangled Spectacular Family Fun Day, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Delano, with music, food, activities for the whole family, 5 to 9 p.m., with fireworks show at 9:30 p.m., Delano Memorial Park, South Lexington, Delano. 725-1286.

Wednesday 6/30

Sunday 7/4

Bargain Night, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Rollerama West, 7850 Brimhall Road. $5 per skater; free rental. 589-7555. Marvin Sapp, 8 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $35 to $50 plus fee. vallitix.com or 324-1369. Songwriters’ Showcase, hosted by Chuck Seaton and Billy Russell, with Lisa Bowman and friends, to benefit the Taryne Hallford cause, 7 p.m., The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road. 831-1413.

Bakersfield Blaze vs. San Jose Giants, 7:45 p.m. Sunday with a fireworks show after the game, other games 7:45 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Sam Lynn Ball Park, 4009 Chester Ave. $5 to $9. bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS. Tehachapi Community Orchestra, annual Pops Under the Stars Concert, with fireworks show, 7 p.m., Coy Burnett Football Stadium, East Tehachapi Boulevard, Tehachapi.

Rock remixes “Rock It Fridays,” 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Fridays, 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 Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Arvizu Brothers, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and Twang Baners, 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday. Marriott Hotel at the Convention Center, 801 Truxtun Ave., 323-1900: In the Mixx with DJ Noe G., Fridays. 21 and over only. Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., Dance to Joe Loco, duet every Sunday, 2 to 5 p.m.