Nov. 12, 2009 – Nov. 25, 2009
FREE
www.bakotopia.com
FREE
www.bakotopia.com
Halloween George Lopez
Joseph Gomez Captures
15 Minutes with
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
November 12, 2009
Above from left, Pregnantville’s - Brandon Nebitt, Matt Kieley, Mike Bedard, Nick Ono, Andrew Price, and John Sptizer (laying across). Cover shot and above photo by Marissa Espericueta.
Fertile Funnymen! ON THE COVER: “Pregnantville” comedy show promises irreverent laughs that would make your most ardent Pro-Lifer blush with glee, opens Nov. 20 at TES! *Gun in cover photo is a toy, so don’t trip! By Andrew Price, Bakotopia.com contributor What do the Mafia, cannibalism, ritual sacrifice, vigilantes, spelling bees, gangster rap, transvestites, and divine intervention have in common? Besides the fact that Morgan Freeman has probably starred in more than one movie about each one, they are all subjects touched upon during the Pregnantville Sketch Comedy Troupe’s premiere comedy show —the approximately 3,475,907th greatest show in the universe. What is “Pregnantville”? Is it some sort of place where they send all the unwed teenage mothers to live? Could it be a theme restaurant where you strap on a false stomach at the door, and they only serve strange BAKOTOPIA 2
foods like filet mignon with whipped cream and sprinkles on top? Maybe it’s an underground syndicate of female commandos with buns in their respective ovens, slowly gathering munitions and intelligence in preparation for some sort of mass, baby-killing holocaust? If you’ve guessed any of these, you are clearly not listening, and might we add that you are being incredibly silly. “Pregnantville” is a sketch comedy troupe putting on their first ever, live stage show this month, featuring local writer/performers Andrew Price (moi), John Spitzer, Matt Kieley, Mike Bedard, Brandon Nebitt and Nick Ono. But what makes this sketch show any different than every other sketch show you’ve ever seen your entire, humdrum, microscopic, insignificant life? Well, we can’t guarantee that it WILL be any different than any of t hose other shows, but what we can tell you is that when we were writing the show, we consistently giggled like little school girls all hopped up on nitrous oxide the entire time. Consider that to be the official ‘Pregnantville Seal of Approval,’ and a twinkly-eyed promise that the events perpetrated before your
eyes on those nights will completely change your life and reshape your entire outlook on the world around you. We are also obligated to inform you that the Pregnantville estate has a more-thancompetent legal team, and cannot be held liable for any minds that are blown during — or as a result of — our show. Impending litigation aside, Pregnantville is coming whether you like it or not. There will be thrills, chills, fear, excitement, outlandishly eccentric performances, grandiose musical numbers, flagrant mistreatment of the English language and enough over-the-top, unnecessarily ridiculous dialogue to make Ed Wood blush. It’s all happening Nov. 20, 21, 27 and 28, 11 p.m., at The Empty Space Theatre, 706 Oak St., right after their production of Christopher Durang’s “Beyond Therapy” (going on at 8 p.m., check it out too!) Admission is $5, plus an open mind. Oh, and about that whole humdrum, meaningless existence thing. We’ve been going through some things lately, and the stress level has been kind of high. That wasn’t appropriate. We apologize. online: www.myspace.com/pregnantville
BAKOTOPIA
I
E D I TO R ’ S N OT E
STAFF
EDITORIAL
’m still getting over Halloween... The candy, the costumes, the candy, the movie marathons - thankfully, it’s only once a year. I doubt I could handle another 31 days of mischief, but then again...it is tempting. I ended up spending half Halloween night at home watching the Ghost Hunters LIVE marathon, which as it turns out, wasn’t actually “live”. I had my TV and live computer feed going side by side and things just weren’t syncing up. Pooo! Wandering downtown I managed to catch a glimpse of the many costumes festive, sexy, funny, and yes - gross. Fortunately for you the reader, Bakotopia photog Joseph “GoGo” Gomez, who turns the big “21” (finally) this month managed to weed out the latter and keep it cool. Turn to page 7 and get your reservations to the big party. According to GoGo himself, “Everyone’s trying to get in”, and he’s even rented a giant spotlight to guide you safely. Joseph’s Bako photos are always on point, capturing local fun at its best from concerts to news to parties or wherever cute girls can be found! Happy Birthday, loco! We also have local pranksters, Pregnantville and more! Thanks to all of this week’s contributors and advertisers for keeping Bakotopia mag fun and free for you and yours! See you at Fishlips on 11/25!
Olivia Garcia VP/Content ogarcia@bakersfield.com 395-7487 Matt Muñoz Editor/Product Manager mmunoz@bakersfield.com 395-7660 Teresa Adamo Associate Editor tadamo@bakersfield.com
ART Glenn Hammett Designer Ghammett@bakersfield.com
ADVERTISING Jaime De Los Santos Sales Manager jdelossantos@bakersfield.com 716-8632
OFFICE Marisol Sorto Office Administrator msorto@bakersfield.com 716-8640
BAKOTOPIA
P.O. Box 2344 Bakersfield, CA 93303
BAKOTOPIA.COM
Peace,
Contribute your own articles/ stories/events. Upload photos
Matt Muñoz, Bakotopia Editor
.
! NOV 21ST AT 9PM $5 COVER Local Favorites, Back-Up Johnny
NOV 25TH, NITE BEFORE THANKSGIVING Jaggerbomb Gobblefest!! Just $4 Happy Thanksgiving From Amestoy’s
SAT NOV 28TH “MAKE SOME NOISE FOR THE TOY’S II” 2ND Annual Fundraiser for the Salvation Army’s, Bakersfield Toy Run held in Dec Live Music – T.B.A. Donations Taken at the Door. In Loving Memory of Jim and Debbie Harmon
Thank You to Everyone Who Made The Grave Robbers Ball A Success for St. Judes
FRI NOV 13- Dub Seed 8pm -12 SAT NOV 14 – Mike Montano 2pm -6 FRI NOV 20 – Billy Russell & The Heaters 8pm-12am SAT NOV 21 - Usual Suspects 2pm – 6pm SUN NOV 22 – Bunky Spurling
Open: Mon - Sat 11am – 2am • Sun 1pm – 2am
2303 River Blvd. • 661-871-2303 BAKOTOPIA 3
Korner
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
November 12, 2009
KRAB holiday madness is coming! Get the inside scoop on the big, FREE, upcoming ‘Acoustic Christmas’ show on Dec. 14! By Miranda Whitworth / KRAB, Bakotopia.com contributor The holiday season is upon us and times seem to be tight for everyone. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza or National Bouillabaisse Day many people are searching the couch cushions for change just to accommodate the practice of gift giving. If you find yourself counting the paydays in hopes of just making it to January 1st we here at KRAB Radio have stepped up to help you look like a person with a rock hard grip on this joyous season. KRAB has teamed up with Maya Cinemas for our first ever KRAB’s Acoustic Christmas on December 14th. The show will feature Say Anything, Cartel, Airborne Toxic Event, After Midnight Project, Paper Tongues and Ray Fresco. Like KRAB’s Free for All 1 & 2 this event will be completely free but seating is limited, you have to win if you want to get in! For those who have attended the station’s intimate acoustic events you know that this will be an amazing opportunity that you don’t want to miss. Panic at the Disco, Great Northern and Saosin are prime examples of bands that have lent their time to KRAB and our listeners in a private setting. They allowed us to experience a completely different side of a band’s personality, providing a personable and very candid performance that was truly priceless. Ray Fresco has already made a
stop here in Bakersfield opening for 311 at the Fox Theatre and followed the show with a set at Fishlips Bar and Grill. The Ventura based band has love for Kern County as the first time they ever heard their music played on the radio was here in town that summer night. You can see footage of the band on YouTube. Com stopping traffic to listen to KRAB and celebrate! Airborne Toxic Event is also no stranger to the radio station their singles, “Sometime Before Midnight” and “Does This Mean You’re Moving On”?, have made the rounds on our airwaves. The band also made the trip from LA to Bakersfield earlier this year to play an acoustic set for KRAB’s afternoon listeners. The unplugged show was amazing and I am sure Airborne Toxic Event will not disappoint on December 14. If you are looking to familiarize yourself with the lineup for KRAB’s Acoustic Christmas log onto krab.com and listen to music from all six bands. In the meantime tune in to 106.1 KRAB for more information on the show and your chance at tickets. The only way to get in on this once in a lifetime event is to win. So, listen up and keep your dialing fingers ready! Stay up to date with all of the KRAB jocks at: www.KRAB.com. Listen for Matt from Bakotopia on the KRAB Morning Show every issue drop date. Next Appearance - Special date: Nov. 25 (Weds.) in the 9 a.m. hour!
Above: members of Airborne Toxic Event with KRAB’s Danny Spanks (center) during a station visit on 4/13/09.
Above: Airborne Toxic Event perform an acoustic set at the KRAB studios on 4/13/09. Photos by Miranda Whitworth BAKOTOPIA 4
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
November 12, 2009
How to get your stuff in Bakotopia Magazine Follow these steps and you are in - it’s so easy! Best local promotion in town! By Matt Munoz, Bakotopia Editor
14,000-print readers, over 9,000+ registered web users, 100,000+ monthly
Follow these steps and you are in, it’s so easy! YOU BECOME THE MEDIA!
web views can’t be wrong!
The web is buzzing with good stories and blogs about everyday life in Bakersfield and the surrounding areas, and readers want you to share! 1) Get your ideas together: a story, event, photos, band, show, food review ANYTHING FLOATING AROUND YOUR MIND & COMMUNITY IS COOL! 2) Start writing to your heart’s content! 3) 400-500 words will do, but if you’re on a roll, keep writing, or if it’s short and sweet, go ahead and submit it online or via e-mail! 4) Don’t worry about being the best writer out there - we’ll help you with editing. 5) Make sure to include a high-res photo or graphic to accompany your piece. If you don't have one, we'll find one for you!
Wanna advertise with Bako? Best rates in town, call: 661-716-8640
UPCOMING PRINT DEADLINES / FOR ISSUE RUN DATES:
11/23 ....................................... ISSUE 69 (12/10 - 12/23) 12/9 .......................................... ISSUE 70 (12/24 - 1/6/10) If you have any ideas or feedback, or need some help with story
Helpful tips... Get your stuff in before deadlines so we can make adjustments, if necessary! Events posted on www.bakotopia.com get priority placement in the print calendar! Sign-up for your free profile at www.bakotopia.com, to get regular e-blasts about upcoming happenings, news flashes, contests, and more to stay in the loop!
development,give me a shout anytime! YOUR SUPPORT IS APPRECIATED!
e-mail: matt@bakotopia.com (Yes, me!) WWW.BAKOTOPIA.COM
Fri Nov 13th – Sunday Snake Oil 9pm – 1am Fri Nov 20th - Divided Highway 9pm – 1am Sun Nov 22nd – Two Timers 2pm-6pm Sat Nov 28th – Still Kickin’ 9pm-1am
(661) 831-1315 1821 S. Chester Ave (near Ming & Chester) BAKOTOPIA 5
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
November 12, 2009
Bakersfield’s
Local Warming Local climate drives reader to love / hate frustration - do you agree? By Jordan Russell, Bakotopia.com contributor. Photo by Joseph Gomez. Model: Micaela Carrasco
Even as summer dwindled into fall, I, along with most Bakersfield dwellers, are finding any and every excuse to vacate from Bakersfield’s sporadic and frustrating weather. Let’s see … Grandma’s birthday? Let’s go to the coast. National Punctuation Day? Get the ice chest. While people tell me that there are some that enjoy the weather here, I’m convinced those people are delusional. Get out of your sick fantasy world and step outside. I dare you to try and justify my sweaty torso. Why is it does it reach 90 degrees in November, yet still remain so excessively cold in the mornings? Why can’t I make the right clothing decisions in the morning without regretting it later? Bakersfield weather is about as frustrating as thinking up a clever analogy to validate your points in a 4 a.m. daze. Not that I would know. Some blame global warming as the culprit of the Bakersfield blaze-fest. Some believe it’s just how Bakersfield is. However, almost everyone can agree that - beads of sweat dripping from your brow in November is a tad ridiculous. The general consensus seems to say that Bakersfield climate is rather bipolar. That said, I strongly urge someone to prescribe our city’s atmosphere some Prozac for its inconsistencies. Maybe then I wouldn’t complain so much. It wouldn’t be so bad if the weather would have any semblance of consistency. It literally went up about 30 degrees from the morning to the afternoon on many occasions. Or maybe I use excessive exaggerations for dramatic effect? Whatever the case, I hate the weather here more than I hate the fact that there’s nothing to do in Bakersfield, but we’ll save that rant for another day. Luckily, I have devised a plan to combat this schizophrenic weather. This foolproof plan of action will shield me from the harsh sun rays, and dull the biting winter chill. I call it “staying inside.” I’ve tried it multiple
BAKOTOPIA 6
times, and so far it’s worked 76 percent of the time. In fact, I’m doing it right now, as this article is being conceived. Though the majority of the time I hate the weather in this city of ours, there are the days that the weather is absolutely perfect. These mythical days However, these days are too very rare, and spaced too far apart. On the days that these I like to thank my higher power, followed by a disjointed dance of sorts, and end it with a prayer that it will happen again someday in my lifetime. My only hope is that one day all you out there will be able to wear that trendy parka of yours throughout a whole day, rather than throwing it off mid-day due to your sweating problem. For those of you Bakersfieldians who have lived in this city for most of your lives, this article’s redundancy is admitted. Sure it’s been said before, but does it hurt to shed some much un-needed sunlight on the topic? I have a dream that one day Bakersfield will be able to sustain life in the summer; but until that day, I’m off to the coast. After all, it is National Good Neighbor Day ... *Yes sir, that’s thee Micaela from the ‘Rockin Roots’ cover of Bako mag enjoying our local weather...
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
ON
THE
SCENE
November 12, 2009
SEEN
9
Pictured at left, from left: Jordan Belardes, author NL Belardes, make-up artist Gulli Monster, and Landen Belardes at 2009 Day of The Dead celebration at Golden State Mall on 11/2/09.
Bakotopia.com/seen
BAKOTOPIA 7
THE
SCENE
November 12, 2009
ON
SEEN
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
Halloween 2009 at Nikki’s Smokin’ BBQ and Club Replay. Photos by Joseph Gomez www.myspace.com/josephgomezphoto BAKOTOPIA 8
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
November 12, 2009
BAKOTOPIA 9
AGENDA WHAT’S ON IT BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
B
= Highly recommended
November 12, 2009
Divided Highway LIVE! Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Rd. Free / 9pm / 21+ / 325-6864. Dub Seeds - LIVE! Pyrenee’s Café 601 Sumner St. 8 p.m. / FREE / 21+
NOVEMBER 14
NOVEMBER 12 Karaoke (Every Thurs. & Sun.) The Belveder, 3090 Brundage Ln. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 325-2139 The Chop Tops w/ Fatt Katt & Midnight Sinners - LIVE! Narducci’s, 622 E. 21st 7 p.m. / $12 / 21+
Charlie & The Valentine Killers w/ Iron Outlaws & more Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / $7 / 21+
The Councilmen - LIVE! ‘CD Release Party’ w/ Last American Buffalo & Diamond Light Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / $5
Rockwell’s Dart Tourney (also Sat.) Trout’s Honkytonk 805 N. Chester (the Dale) 6:30 p.m.
Sunday Snake Oil! Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Rd. Free/ 9pm / 21+ / 325-6864.
Sunday Snake Oil! The Dive Bar, 1821 Chester Ave. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 831-1315
NOVEMBER 13 Vampire Weekend LIVE! The Dome, 2201 V St. 8 p.m. / $25.50 / All Ages. 322-5200 / www.vallitix.com
Beat Surrender - DJ Night! Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St. 9 p.m. / 21+
As The Crow Fly - LIVE! Chalet Basque, 200 Oak St., 7 p.m. / FREE! / 21+ Led Zepagain - LIVE! Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 8 p.m. / $23 / 21+ www.vallitix.com
Monday Nite Football ! w/ESPN! (Every Monday) Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 5 p.m. / 21+
Arden Park Roots aka “Sublime Tribute”? BRyder’s, 7401 White Ln. 7 p.m. / 397-7304
Monday Nite Football w/Francis Mayer of KRAB! (every Monday!) Camino Real Restaurant 5 p.m. / 852-0493
DJ Danny Boi - LIVE! The Nile Bar 1721 19th St. 9 p.m. / 363-3179 Bakersfield Blues Society “Jam Session” Trout’s Honkytonk 805 N. Chester (the Dale) 2-8 p.m. / 21+ / 399-6700
NOVEMBER 17 Mac Attack’s Karaoke (Every Tues., Wed., Fri.) The Junction 2620 Buck Owens Blvd. 8 p.m. / 21+ / 3279651
NOVEMBER 15 Country George - LIVE! Ethel’s, 4310 Alfred Harrell Hwy., 12pm, Free, 873-7613.
NOVEMBER 16
BAKOTOPIA.COM/SEEN
Sea of Treachory w/ Suffokate & Blindwitness. Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave. 6 p.m. / $12 / All Ages
Derby Double Header! Derby Revolution vs San Diego & Battle Born Derby Demons, Saunders Park, 3300 Palm St. 5:30 pm. - 10 p.m. FREE!
NOVEMBER 18 Flobots & more - LIVE! Narducci’s, 622 E. 21st 7 p.m. / $18 / All Ages
DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!
15 TV’S
A PLACE WHERE THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN HAVE A GOOD TIME
DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS
NEW OWNER • NEWLY REMODELED UNLIMITED Tanning Packages Laydown or Standup available (As low as $20 a mo.)
NFL & College Games
SAT NOV 14 @ 6PM
(CALL FOR INFO)
Sat 8am – 5pm
ts Excludes Even
Breakfast Served On Sundays – 9-11am 900 Truxtun Ave Ste 110 • (661)322-9800 Mon-Fri 11-11p Sat & Sun 9-10p BAKOTOPIA 10
Mon – Fri 8am – 7pm
A Healing Touch MASSAGE By Kathy (Special $40 an hour)
• Spray Tanning - Starting at $25 • Rockstar nails & toes by Rochelle • Hotties Way Lingerie & Costumes • Tattoos by Dalton Taylor • Discounted Spa Packages Available
2020 N. Chester Ave (661)387-0742 Across the street from Zorbas
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
November 12, 2009
SPOTLIGHT WEDNESDAY! NOVEMBER 25TH! BAKOTOPIA’S Annual... “Night B4 Thanksgiving Jam”!
w/ Mento Buru, Velorio & DJ Mikey - LIVE! -Fishlips, 1517 18th St. -7 p.m. - ? -$5 / 21+ /324-2557 Early arrival recommended! Busiest night of the year in downtown Bako! Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers w/ The 99’s. Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / $13 / 21+
NOVEMBER 19 Escape The Fate - LIVE! w/ Vogue In The Movement, Shilo & Automatic Redial. The Dome, 2201 V St. 6 p.m. / $17 / All Ages
Pato Banton w/ Dub Seeds. Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / $10 / 21+
NOVEMBER 20 HAVE A BEER & FALL IN LOVE! “The Pulse” ‘Electronic Music Event’. Golden State Mall 3201 F St. $7 Adv. - $10 Door 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. / All Ages 472-5935 (info)
Mike Montano Band BRyder’s Bar, 7401 White Ln. 9 p.m. / Free / 21+ / 397-7401 Sean Morey from Bob & Tom Show, Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 8 p.m. / $13 / 21+ www.vallitix.com Still Kickin’ - LIVE! Ethel’s, 4310 Alfred Harrell Hwy., 8pm, Free, 873-7613.
NOVEMBER 21 Mento Buru & DJ Mikey - LIVE! BRyder’s Bar, 7401 White Ln. 9 p.m. / Free / 21+ / 397-7401 Backup Johnny - LIVE! Amestoy’s, 2303 River Blvd. 9 p.m. / $5 / 21+ / 871-2303 Automatic Redial & Out of Frame. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 322-8900
NOVEMBER 24 DJ Michael Anthony “Thanksgiving Fundraiser” BRyder’s Bar, 7401 White Ln. 9 p.m. / Free / 21+ / 397-7401
NOVEMBER 25 Jaegerbomb Gobblefest Amestoy’s, 2302 River Blvd. 8 p.m. / 21+ / $4 The Councilmen - LIVE! BRyder’s Bar, 7401 White Ln. 9 p.m. / Free / 21+ / 397-7401
NOVEMBER 27 The English Beat - LIVE! w/ The Subterraneanizzles Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / $15 adv. - $20 door / 21+ / www.vallitix.com /3225200 - SKA, BABY, SKA!
NOVEMBER 28 Mento Buru & DJ Mikey - LIVE! McMurphy’s, 14 Monterey St. 9 p.m. / $5 / 21+ “Make Noise 4 Toys”! Annual fundraiser w/ live music & more! Amestoy’s, 2303 River Blvd. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 871-2303 POST YOUR EVENTS FREE AT WWW.BAKOTOPIA.COM TO MAKE THE MAG & WEEKLY EVENT E-BLASTS TO FANS!
GRAND OPENING Happy Hour Mon-Fri 3pm-7pm
$2.50 Mondos $1.75 Domestic $3.00 Wells
• • • • • •
Pool Table Juke Box Darts Karaoke Tuesdays Dj On Thursdays Live Music
Nov 13 – Divided Highway Nov 14 – Sunday Snake Oil
Bridget nder Barte
Fri (And Or) Sat
818 Real Rd,Suite B • (661) 325-6864 Entrance Between Sizzler And The Days Inn/Regency In Back
BANQUET ROOM AVAILABLE 622 E. 21ST ST (661) 324 – 2961 BAKOTOPIA 11
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
Lovin’ La Vida
November 12, 2009
Lopez!
Comedian/Sitcom star gets new gig: late-night talk show host By Matt Muñoz, Bakotopia Editor Comedian George Lopez is boldly going where no Chicano has gone before. Preparing to throw his sombrero into the ring, TV’s funniest papa is taking his fearlessness into unchartered territory with a new, late-night talk show, “Lopez Tonight.” The show, which premiered at 11 p.m., Monday, Nov, 9 on TBS, plans to keep the weekly, party going with a fierce cast of talent in tow. From the show’s band leader, Michael Bearden, who previously worked on Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” prior to the singer’s death, to a “secret” list of hot guests, it’s looking like prime time for Lopez’s next stratospheric step. Standing among the giants — Leno, Conan, and Letterman, one factor has him making history. He’s the first Latino to host his own U.S. late-night show. Embraced by American TV audiences, much in part to the popular “George Lopez Show” now in syndication, you can’t change the channel without catching a glimpse of the comedian. Recently seen at the White House hosting a celebration of Hispanic musical heritage with the First Family, as well on CNN’s “Latino In America” report, it seems there’s no stopping Lopez. And don’t forget his evergrowing list of movie roles …“Mr. Troop,” anyone? Like actors
BAKOTOPIA 12
Edward James Olmos and Rodriguez, Lopez has always offered to lend a helping hand when needed. Close ties to Bakersfield and United Farm Workers Co-founder Dolores Huerta remain active today, as well as stating his views on a variety of subjects sensitive to the area. Bakotopia caught up with Lopez, via a telephone interview on Oct. 20, prior to the show’s premiere to get the inside scoop on “Lopez Tonight,” the blurred lines between stage and real life, and his own take on possible cuts of the Modern language department at CSUB. Your list of achievements is impressive, but your appearance at the White House really stood out. How was the experience? I’m fearless baby! To me, I took it as a challenge. I know Barack (Obama) a little bit, but I thought, “Let me make the President and the First Lady laugh, and I really felt comfortable with what I had. When they laughed, now that’s the top. Now, there’s no one who is more important than anyone I’m going to run into than the leader of the free world. You were there for President Obama when he ran for office… Yes, I was.
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
CNN’s “Latino In America” special report was seen by the world. How do you handle all those projects and being “on” all the time? I’m “on” all the time, because it’s real. It’s not a caricature, it’s not an act. So, when you’re inherently real - it’s almost like cooking, you don’t have to look at the recipe book to make your favorite dish. You just do it, you just know it. You know how much, you know when to add a little bit more, take a little bit less. And I’ve learned through success and through failure of what to do. Now, in all of the success that I’ve had, I don’t look at it, like a lot of people do saying, “Why me”? You know, I work my tail off. That’s probably, “why me”? In the stars, “Why anybody”? But for hardwork and determination, I understand if you go just by that criteria - why it would be me. I just outworked everybody. And I did it with two bad kidneys, and now I’m doing it with one good one! How would you describe your show, “Lopez Tonight”? Your set looks incredible! The set is badass. I describe it as potentially having the opportunity to be the commander of the brand new space shuttle something that’s about ready to blast off. Nobody goes into space by themselves. I’m taking a lot of people with me. I’m taking Michael Bearden, who was Michael Jackson’s musical director for “This Is It”. I’m taking that band with me, and everybody who is on this show - from the writers to the director, to the band… Entering the late-night TV scene as the first Latino host is very ambitious, how do you “pump up” your team? I had a conversation Michael Bearden away from the band, as well as with the band last night when I saw them for the first time and rehearsal…We just don’t want to win - we want to knock people out. Hosting a talk show can be full of surprises, how are you approaching being the host to a variety of guest? One thing that I think that I have being a comedian for 30 years, and just coming off a big HBO special - 14,000 people, is the sense of fearlessness that you need to be really good. I want them (guests) to be funny. I don’t want them to be sitting there, sounding bored, or be a whipping post for jokes. I’m not trying to fire off three jokes while they’re talking about their kids. I want to listen, and yeah, if I have something amusing to say, I’ll throw it in, , take the subject into a different conversation, or digress. How ‘bout that, I’m gonna try and “digress” a few times. Who are some of the popular talent slated for the show’s guest line-up? They are movie stars, great musicians, and they are very talented people, all of them. And a lot of them are my friends. Do you think you’ve approached ‘Cosby Status’ as someone who’s transcended the realm of being just an entertainer? People watch and listen when you’re on-air, and not just Latinos. No, no, no… I don’t think about it like that. I’m not ready for that. I appreciate it, and I know that it’s unique, and it’s one thing… I created a position for myself that didn’t exist when I first got into this business. Edward James Olmos was an amazing activist, but he’s not in the light as he once was. Do you feel actors like Olmos had to make certain choices to limit that activism? Yeah, but my struggle isn’t always about that, but it’s inherently always wrapped in something that I say. Like The Cosby Show before you - your character on the George Lopez Show has become the surrogate TV father for a lot of kids, especially now in syndication. How do you feel about that? They’re extensions of what you do, not extensions of who you are. You know, we still have to protect the castle, man. So when I’m not in my suit or I’m not on a stage, I don’t act as much like
November 12, 2009
that George Lopez. In the beginning when I started doing my sitcom, they would say, “Well, how much different is George Lopez on the show than George Lopez in real-life? They were almost the same, because I hadn’t evolved so that there would be different variables of George Lopez. Now there are - one that would go on Regis & Kelly, and one that would go on HBO - not the same person. The one that did the sitcom is not going to be the one hosting this show. You are active on Twitter, getting praise and heat for your work - are you okay with armchair critics? I don’t mind that. One of the beauties of success, is that you get a lot of dissention. It’s nice, because it would have debilitated me in 2001, even before I got into the game. Now I look at it with a sense of humor, because they (the viewer), know that George Lopez - the comedian, they don’t know thee George Lopez. You know, they might think my comedy is racist, but then again - is everything for everybody? No. So when they say, “Hey, you suck, I don’t like your show”. It’s like, that’s the comedian (George Lopez), or that’s the show. Any plans to move away from performing adult themed comedy routines? I don’t think so. You know, when I did Showtime, that was a pretty clean one. And then when I went to HBO, HBO was HBO. George Carlin & Chris Rock never pulled a punch, Richard Pryor or anybody who was that genre of comedian. Dice, or Kinison…And it’s HBO, I wasn’t about to go soft on HBO after I waited 20 years to be on HBO. Maybe it was the rise in profile? Even when I had the TV show, it just stayed very adult. I’d like an opinion on an issue our local, and heavily Latino enrolled, Cal State University is facing. Latino studies programs are facing the chopping block right now, due to our economy including the popular Spanish dept., Chicano studies, etc., yet other less popular depts., remain safe. You have strong ties to the Central Valley with UFW co-founder Dolores Huerta. When you hear something like that, what comes to mind? What comes to my mind is what’s always perceived to be the weakest link in the chain is what snaps first. So, to the people that are making the decisions - to them, what can they live without? Well, if you’re probably Anglo, you can live without Chicano Studies. And you can live without the programs that affect “us”. And the time when times get tough, instead of looking at the overall program - you look at those programs and say, “This is what we’re cutting”. And then if you go and protest, it’s like, “Oh, there they go again”. You know “There they go again” for a reason. If there was a way that I could help them, I’m sure Dolores Huerta would have contacted me. I always have the opening line of communication to her and to that area. From appearing on everyone else’s talk shows to the stage, you’ve proven yourself a worthy guest. It’s looking like the perfect time for you own talk show... It’s “prime time”, right? But I don’t think that this is a show, that’s going to build to success - I think it’s going to happen immediately and we’re going to hold onto it. And I think it’s going to be one of those things that people embrace and get into from the beginning. Any final message for your Bakersfield fans? I love Bakersfield, hang in there.
Lopez Tonight” is on Monday - Thursdays at 11pm on TBS. Check your local listings.
www.lopeztonight.com/ “You memmer”? BAKOTOPIA 13
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
November 12, 2009
Mariah Carey’s Big
Gamble Fan Review: ‘90s diva heads to the city of sin in search of pop redemption - Vegas style!
By Gabriel Ramirez, Bakotopia.com contributor Before this year I have to admit I only really knew Mariah Carey for two reasons: we line danced to her song “Fantasy” in junior high school. I also remember the day she went on MTV’s TRL and had a melt down while giving out ice cream to the audience. But my perspective of the Diva of divas has been incredibly changed after seeing her latest performance at the Pearl Theater in Las Vegas’ Palms Hotel. You must know that this was my first Carey concert and I am not a fan of concerts at all, because my philosophy has always been why pay hundreds of dollars to hear something I can simply turn on the radio to hear. Carey performed at the Pearl Theater September 11, 12 and October 9, and 10th - the day I attended. Carey, the imperfect angel that she is, came down from the ceiling of the stage in one of her trademark glitter bedazzled dresses. She sang hits from
her old records as well as some of her recently released material from “Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel.” The concert was truly a unique experience in which Carey directly addressed and made contact with the audience, answering to audience commentary, reading signs, taking stuffed animal gifts and even having a gay man propose to his boyfriend on stage midway through the concert while Carey toasted the couple with a glass of champagne. Carey’s musical talent and the visibly enamored audience who never lost a bit of energy might make Carey a perfect candidate for a long term residence in Las Vegas, placing her among other great diva’s such as: Cher, Celine Dion, and Bette Midler. For her truly outstanding performance and ever-angelic voice I gave Carey a standing ovation all night, and hope to one day see her again in concert. Overall the highlight of the night was getting a personal wave from Carey as she entered the Bellagio lobby on her way to husband Nick Cannon’s birthday party at the Banks Night Club. If there is ever another X-Men film I want Carey to play the nightclubsinging mutant Dazzler, who possesses the power to launch fireworks from her hand-but that is just my own not-so-private fantasy. If you want to hear some of her new material you can purchase Carey’s latest CD “Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel” now! There are rumors from Carey herself that she might be going on a worldwide tour soon, which would be her first in four years. You can also catch Carey as a social worker in “Precious”, Lee Daniel’s adaptation of the dark novel “Push” by Sapphire out in theaters now, which already has Oscar buzz.
www.mariahcarey.com 1024 Truxtun Ave.
In as little as 6 months become experienced and licensed using specialized Microdermabrasion, Galvanic & High Frequency equipment. Secure your future doing the latest professional facials, eye lashes, make-up and skin care. Specializing in the use of Jane Iredale Mineral Make-up and Pevonia Botanica Spa products. We are nationally accredited and offer financial aid to those who qualify. All work done by supervised students.
661.327.9784 BAKOTOPIA 14
2935 F Street • Bakersfield, CA 93301
Collectible Vinyl Records CD’s DVD’s Books Comics & Video Games Visit us “In the Cottages” across from Rabobank Arena Or on the web at: www.darkstarrecordsandbooks.com
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
This Is It! Fan Review: Michael Jackson’s final bow is an amazing experience for old and new fans By Thomas G. Robinson, Bakotopia.com Contributor Going to the original limited release of “This Is It,” celebrating the genius that was Michael Jackson (with never-before-seen footage of Michael behind the scenes preparing for his comeback concert in London’s famed 02 Arena), I was already in a melancholy mood. I knew it would be a combination of happy and sad, seeing him dance and sing, but knowing he’s no longer with us … how are they going to capture this? How will it be handled? I was surprised that on this Wednesday evening, the theater was packed! The sign in the window said, “sold out,” but once inside, I noticed there were a few empty seats. Still, for a weeknight, that was incredible. Some people had come with store-bought Michael Jackson t-shirts on (me included), some had made their own with silk-screened images of the movie poster … very cool. But the mood was nothing different for going to any other movie … Until the lights went out. You could have heard a pin drop. The movie just starts, no warning, with a statement prepared by AEG/Sony. Then straight to the dancers excited to be working with the man that all dancers tip their hats to. We are treated to Michael Joseph Jackson, who looks surprisingly healthy, moves like he’s half his age, and ever so polite. Even when an earpiece he’s wearing is creating a painful response to the music “like a fist is pushing hard into my ear,” he calmly and with “love, l-o-v-e” asks that they do something about it. MJ’s voice sounds fantastic. He’s singing the songs that we are so want-
November 12, 2009
ing to hear again, and he’s in full control of every aspect of the show. He’s moving in his trademark manner, adding more popping and robotic movements than ever before, and dancing better than the men half his age. Even though he’s trying to save his voice for the concert, he cannot help but react to the emotion of the song by getting into it and singing at full force, then playfully scolding everyone around him for making him do that. Overall, it was a joy to see the movie. I didn’t know what to expect, but I did expect to see Michael for the last time, doing what he was born to do. My son said that (because he’s seen many MJ videos showing the greatness of this entertainer) he felt that Michael was “holding back.” I thought about that and responded, if you are practicing for a show, you are going through the motions. You are trying things out and you’re singing to crew members and stage hands. You are not in “the element.” Having seen Michael perform live during the Bad Tour in 1988, I can attest to the energy the crowd supplies him. I told him, imagine him on stage in front of tens of thousands of people, and you would have seen Michael in top form. Even in this format, the rehearsals, he was in top form, just without the crowd. The theater crowd was great. It’s not often that people applaud at a flat screen in a theater. The last time I experienced that was during “Dreamgirls” and the credits displayed “introducing Jennifer Hudson” after her knock-you-out performance. There were several moments (I counted four) where the crowd in the theatre audience applauded in the thrill of watching one of Michael’s performances! Wow. Directed by the show’s choreographer Kenny Ortega, the movie is playing in theaters all around the world and is breaking sales records! It is in theaters now for two weeks here at Edwards Cinema and The Mayan. I encourage all MJ fans (and even those who question his greatness, no especially those who question his greatness) to go see this film, to remember what a thrill it was to see The King of Pop on stage, in his element. My only complaint: The volume should have been higher, as, after all, it’s a concert! This should be viewed on the big screen with the speakers at full volume! This Is It ... It’s joyous. It’s sad. It reminds us of what could have been. It reminds us of the genius that was Michael Jackson. www.thisisit-movie.com/ BAKOTOPIA 15
LIC#:PP012134
R. STANLEY SECURITY SERVICE , INC. 12420 Jomani Dr. Suite: B Bakersfield,Ca 93312
661.589.7411
MEDICAL MARIJUANA WE PROVIDE EXCLUSIVE INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT FOR KERN COUNTY Process claims with every Medical Insurance Company in the U.S
GUARDS • PATROL SPECIAL EVENTS
634-9283
Jomani Dr.
Not-For –Profit Corporation
Only Patients with proper paperwork & ID are allowed Entrance
Allen Rd.
(except Federally sponsored programs)
Rosedale Hwy
MONDAY-SATURDAY 10AM – 8PM CLOSED SUNDAY
DO IT LEGALLY UNDER CALIFORNIA STATE LAW, PROP 215 (HS 11362.5)
NOW OPEN! Every Wednesday from 2 to 6 pm
(888) MED-KUSH (888-633-5874) Confidential Evaluations by CA-Licensed Doctors
West Coast Evaluations 2421 Haley St., Suite #420 Bakersfield, CA 93305
$10 OF F w ith this ad