16 The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010 Eye Street Editor Jennifer Self | Phone 395-7434 | e-mail [email protected]BY JEFF GOODMAN Californian staff writer [email protected]T yler Hengtgen has a case of the blues. A very good case. The 20-year-old guitarist recently emerged as the Bakers- field store finalist of Guitar Center’s national “King of the Blues” competition, surprising the judges — and his well-sea- soned opponents — with his strumming skills. He’s in Pasade- na 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 every- thing.” 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 slow- grooving “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 Metal- lica’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 con- test? After his older brother, Nick, piqued his interest, Hengt- gen began learning guitar dur- ing 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 competi- tion following a friend’s sugges- tion. He didn’t get past the first round. What he did get, however, was the urge to try again. He worked on improvising, mostly by jam- ming with friends, and improved his technical skills. Maybe more importantly, he overcame some nerves by play- ing 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 perform- ing for judges, knowing that you’re being judged on what you do, but that’s the only differ- ence.” After three preliminary rounds in May and a store final at Guitar Center on Ming Avenue, Hengt- gen wasn’t just being judged. He was being hailed. Once the panel announced Hengtgen as the winner, con- testants 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 sur- prise,” said Tommy Sosebee, the store’s guitar department man- ager. “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 pack- age that includes $25,000 cash, endorsement deals from Gibson and Ernie Ball and a feature in Guitar World magazine. No store finalist from Bakers- field 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. “Actu- ally putting some emotion into it. He’s got as good a shot as any- one.” 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 gener- al education requirements at Bakersfield College, he hopes to attend the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. The budding gui- tarist 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. The man who would be ‘King’ Mostly self-taught musician sets sights on concert win, more 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. 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, dis- cusses books she’s read on the sub- ject. On July 1 the Engels will have a booth at a Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce event at the Double Tree Hotel and will pro- vide information for anyone inter- ested 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 conspicu- ous. “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 travel- ing in foreign countries, “The way I look at it, everybody has a num- ber,” meaning when it’s your time to go, you’ll go. “I don’t worry — God’s in control.” Travel club plans trip to Greece, Turkey 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. Tyler Hengtgen began learning guitar during his first year at Liber- ty High School — mostly on his own.
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16 The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010
Tyler Hengtgen has a case ofthe blues. A very good case.The 20-year-old guitarist
recently emerged as the Bakers-field store finalist of GuitarCenter’s national “King of theBlues” competition, surprisingthe judges — and his well-sea-soned opponents — with hisstrumming skills. He’s in Pasade-na today for district-level duel,and he’s hoping to advance tothe regional finals in Hollywoodnext month.
The thing with Hengtgen,though, is that the blues onlymake up a pick-sized portion ofhis musical palette.
“Blues isn’t the main thing Ilike to play,” he said. “It’s one ofthe many things. I’ve playedjazz, rock, funk, all differentthings. I’m really into every-thing.”
Hengtgen begins rattling offhis favorite musicians —Guthrie Govan, TommyEmmanuel, Stevie Ray Vaughan,Albert King — and it sounds likehe could make a list as long asthe neck of his sunburst orangePeavey HP Special guitar.
He tabs Jimi Hendrix’s slow-grooving “Little Wing” as one ofhis favorite all-time songs, yetthere’s a video clip on YouTubeof him flying up and down thefretboard for a section of Metal-lica’s “Master of Puppets.”
He surfs the Web with an eyefor the unknown, constantlysearching for gifted guitaristsfrom this genre and that.
Why bother with a blues con-test? After his older brother,Nick, piqued his interest, Hengt-gen began learning guitar dur-ing his first year at Liberty HighSchool — mostly on his own. Hedidn’t join the band, hasn’tformed one of his own and onlytook lessons from Bill O’Neill atnow-closed Stockdale Music fora short while during his junioryear.
Despite not having muchblues background or any publicperforming under his belt,Hengtgen entered last year’sedition of the annual competi-tion following a friend’s sugges-tion. He didn’t get past the firstround.
What he did get, however, wasthe urge to try again. He workedon improvising, mostly by jam-ming with friends, andimproved his technical skills.Maybe more importantly, heovercame some nerves by play-ing guitar with a buddy betweenclasses at Bakersfield College,turning passers-by intoimpromptu crowds.
This year, he couldn’t wait tobe on stage.
“Leading up to playing, it waspretty nerve-wracking,” saidHengtgen. “But once you’replaying, it’s a whole differentthing. I’m just going along withthe music.
“It’s a little different perform-ing for judges, knowing thatyou’re being judged on whatyou do, but that’s the only differ-ence.”
After three preliminary roundsin May and a store final at GuitarCenter on Ming Avenue, Hengt-gen wasn’t just being judged. Hewas being hailed.
Once the panel announcedHengtgen as the winner, con-testants shook his hand andpatted him on the back. Theytold him “Good job!” andwished him congratulations,probably wondering where inthe blues he came from.
“He took everybody by sur-prise,” said Tommy Sosebee, the
store’s guitar department man-ager. “There were a lot of olderguys, and he kind of swept it outfrom under them.”
Hengtgen’s showing kept himin the running for a prize pack-age that includes $25,000 cash,endorsement deals from Gibsonand Ernie Ball and a feature inGuitar World magazine.
No store finalist from Bakers-field has ever advanced beyondthe district level, Sosebee said,but he sees no reason whyHengtgen can’t shred that trend.
“He’s exactly what the judgesare looking for — taste, tone,phrasing,” Sosebee said. “Actu-ally putting some emotion into
it. He’s got as good a shot as any-one.”
And even if the competitiondoesn’t pan out favorably forHengtgen, a future in musicwon’t lose its appeal.
Once he completes his gener-al education requirements atBakersfield College, he hopes toattend the Musicians Institutein Hollywood. The budding gui-tarist is also interested inrecording and “that whole sideof it.”
This whole side of it — theself-teaching, genre-hopping,blues-playing, judge-wowingside — he’s pretty much takencare of.
The man who would be ‘King’Mostly self-taughtmusician sets sightson concert win, more
HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN
Tyler Hengtgen, 20, is Bakersfield Guitar Center’s finalist in the “King of the Blues” competition andadvances to the district level competition in Pasadena today.
BY CAMILLE GAVINContributing columnist
In preparation for a 10-day tripto Greece and Turkey, members ofthe Kern County European TravelClub are getting an overview ofwhat they’ll see.
Jim Engel, the leader, said thetheme is “In the Footsteps of theApostle Paul.” At the group’s twicemonthly meetings he shows videosof the places they will visit and hasproduced a digital schematic, ormap, of Paul’s first century journey.His wife, Leasa Sukut-Engel, dis-cusses books she’s read on the sub-ject.
On July 1 the Engels will have abooth at a Greater BakersfieldChamber of Commerce event atthe Double Tree Hotel and will pro-vide information for anyone inter-ested in joining the club. Also beingplanned is a tour next April to theNetherlands and Belgium. All told,he’s been leading tours for about 24years.
“I’ve been doing this since the1980s when I taught internationalstudies at Bakersfield College,”Engel said.”I used to take lots ofstudents and faculty almost everyyear.”
Now that he’s retired, Engel actsas a host guide and donates $25per traveler to the CaliforniaRetired Teachers Association forscholarships. He noted that sincehe’s not a travel agent, he makestrip arrangements through Globus.
Safety is the primary concern oftoday’s travelers, Engel said, and heoffers several pieces of advice tohelp people feel more comfortable.
In addition to watching out forpickpockets, there’s a much greaterneed these days to be aware of yourimmediate surroundings, and tonotice what’s going on around you.
He also advises wearing clothingthat isn’t especially colorful or of adesign that makes you conspicu-ous.
“You don’t want to stand out,” heexplained. “You want to blend in,to mix with the rest of society.”
Overall, though Engel takes aphilosophical approach to travel-ing in foreign countries, “The way Ilook at it, everybody has a num-ber,” meaning when it’s your timeto go, you’ll go. “I don’t worry —God’s in control.”
Travel clubplans tripto Greece,Turkey
Kern County EuropeanTravel ClubWhat: 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.
Tyler Hengtgen began learning guitar during his first year at Liber-ty High School — mostly on his own.
Looking for live music in a low-key atmosphere in southwestBakersfield? T Bones Ranch
House is the place to go, giving thosenot ready to rock all night a spot toenjoy a show. Located on the corner ofGosford Road and District Boulevard,T Bones offers up a classic steakhousemenu and, for those who go on aweekend night, classic rock covertunes to complement the meal.
When you first enter T Bones, it’snot immediately apparent that theyhave a full band performing or eventhe facilities to host that type of event.But it’s the geography of the restaurantthat makes their small music scenesuccessful. Tucked away on the eastside of the building, what is a coveredpatio during the day is transformedinto a closed concert room at night.Windows are shut and stage lights arelit so band regulars like The Beagles orA.K.A. can perform without botheringneighboring businesses or even unre-ceptive diners inside the restaurant.Management at T Bones has created atwo-room bar area that they refer to asthe lounge and the patio. The two sec-tions are separated by a wall, smallhallway and heavy door. The layoutkeeps the party on the patio, while themusic’s volume stays low in the loungeand inaudible to those enjoying steaksin the dining room.
Late on a Saturday night the restau-rant is empty and the crowd is light onthe patio. A.K.A. vocalist Sharon Glea-son croons to the few that are there.The band brings a lounge feel to clas-sic rock, pop, country and disco hits.The song selection seems to fit thetaste of the crowd, which is made upmostly of couples and women in their40s, 50s and 60s.
The mood is positive yet laid-back.It is perfect for someone looking for agood time out on a Saturday night, notnecessarily a big party.
Jennifer is tending bar and the slownight gives her a chance to talk up TBones Ranch House’s weekday crowdand offerings. “We have karaoke onThursday nights and that really bringspeople in. But our happy hour specialskeep the bar area busy during theday,” she said.
While the restaurant closes betweenlunch and dinner, the lounge andpatio stay open for business offeringdrink specials and appetizers. Happyhour lasts from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.,allowing a large window of opportuni-ty for people to eat and drink withoutbreaking the bank.
While the happy hour may run long,your chance for live music at T Bonesends early. Music on the patio usuallykicks off around 7:30 p.m. and alwayswraps up at 11:30, with the bar closingsoon after. It may not be the bestoption for the die-hard,late-night crowd,but if you are look-ing to enjoy a fullshow, in a laid-back location andmake it home bymidnight — TBones is worththe trip.
No Bones about it,this is a mellow joint
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.
A Night Out with Miranda Whitworth CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST
T BONES RANCH HOUSE
CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN
T Bones cocktail waitress Katie Schwingl serves an order in the lounge area.
The western decor at T Bones is adraw to many in the southwestneighborhood.
Happy hour is hoppingbut not too hectic
Miranda Whitworth works at Clear Channel
Radio Bakersfield and writes occasional
columns for The Californian.
18 The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010
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Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian 17
Eye Street
BY CAMILLE GAVINContributing columnist
After 10 years as chief curator at theBakersfield Museum of Art, EmilyFalke 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 leavingon the crest of a very big wave, namely,the Best of the West exhibition thatopened on June 10.
“It’s been such a good long run for mehere,” Falke said. “And this current exhib-it that’s been so well-received, that’s agreat last hurrah.”
The exhibit, which took two years toplan and execute, highlights the collec-tions of local residents as well as a galleryof paintings by top Western artists of the19th and 20th centuries.
During her tenure, Falke has donemuch to strengthen the art museum interms of the quality of its exhibitions, itseducational programs and its status inthe community. She feels confident thatthe museum will continue to grow andthrive.
“We’ve worked hard to get it where itis,” she said. “We’ve set a bar, a standard,and no one is going to go under it. We’reat a very good place now — financially weare sound.”
Falke will be at the art museum untilWednesday but she plans to come backfor short periods in July and August.
“I’m not going to leave them in thelurch — I’ll be back to help with the tran-sition,” she said. “I’ve already bookedexhibits up to the end of 2011 and wehave a lot of other things coming up, likeVia Arte in October.”
In serving as curator at the MaritimeMuseum, Falke will be dealing with dif-ferent kinds of subject matter and
exhibits than she’s done here. “It’s more hands-on,” she said. “It’s
more of a technical museum with moresophisticated exhibits. It’s in the old navalbuilding and there’s a lot of sentiment forit on the part of the people who live thereand all up and down the coast.”
In preparation for the job, she wasasked to do a special project related tothe museum’s nautical theme.
“As I explored the history, learnedabout the Chumash Indians, and shipsand lighthouses, I found I enjoyed think-ing outside of the (art) museum field,”she said. “But I would like to bring a littlemore art to it.”
Falke moved here 22 years ago and pre-viously had lived only in large cities. She’sa graduate of UCLA and has lived in NewYork and San Francisco. Like a lot of oth-er first-time residents, however, she’scome to appreciate our small-town
atmosphere. “In my travels, I tell people all the time,
Bakersfield people are the nicest peoplein the world,” she said. “And it’s true.”
Yet she’s eager to start the next chapterin her life and the Santa Barbara lifestylesuits her just fine, personally as well asprofessionally.
“My children went to school there andI’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 Californ-ian’s Eye Cook contest a couple of yearsago and she has continued to help inplanning the annual event. Gourmetcooking is her chief hobby so the coastalenvironment is spot-on for her.
“My passion for cooking is huge —huge!” she said. “I love fish and there’s allthat fresh produce — it’s a perfect matchfor me.”
Departing chief curatorhas big plans for new job
Falke saves ‘Best’ for last
Ask Bernie Herman how he feels aboutEmily Falke’s departure and you’ll get atwo-part answer: sad and happy.
“I’m very proud of her for her newappointment,” said the Bakersfield ArtMuseum’s executive director and CEO.“Sad because she has brought a lot ofenergy that has (benefitted) the museumand the city.”
As chief curator, Falke has done muchmore than merely plan exhibits, or asHerman puts it, “Her finger is on every-thing.”
In addition to a broad knowledge offine art, she has handled the manydetails that precede putting up an exhib-it, hanging the exhibit, a major job initself, maintaining the museum’s perma-nent collection and helping with
fundraising events. And raising money is vital to the muse-
um’s existence. Two-thirds of its revenuecomes from contributions and grants,Herman said. However total revenue wasdown by $200,000 in 2009-10. Herman istaking that shortfall into considerationfor the coming fiscal year that begins onJuly 1, with a proposed budget of a littleover $700,000.
“We’ve maintained ourselves in theblack in the last year,” Herman said,partly by reducing hours and cutting twopart-time positions. “The budget is achallenge for us, as it is for all arts andcultural organizations. We’re projecting aloss of operating income for next year.”
Built into the new budget are twogrants that have not yet been approved.
One is a $100,000 grant from the IrvineFoundation, the other, $50,000 from thecounty. The museum receives no fundsfrom the city.
“The key is the Irvine grant — thatshould come through in October,”Her-man said. “Hopefully the county grantwill come through too.”
The museum has 1,100 members,which Herman considers a painfullysmall number considering the metropol-itan Bakersfield population of more than400,000.
“With the money from the Irvine grantwe plan to hire a consultant to do a pilotstudy on our programs and other thingswe’re doing,” he said. “From that we’lldesign future events to help build ouraudience.”
“In my travels, I tell people all the time, Bakersfield people are the nicest people in the world. And it’s true.”
— Emily Falke
MUSEUM BANKING ON GRANTS
CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN
Emily Falke prepares a dish during the Eye Cook 2008 finals at Urner’s. She was thechampion of the event that year.
Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian 19
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BY SUSAN SCAFFIDIContributing writer
After 30 years of performing,you’d think Mark Chesnutt hasno new musical roads to travel.
And you’d be wrong.Working on his new album, “Out-
law,” even Chesnutt was a little sur-prised.
The album features Chesnutt’s ver-sions of many songs he grew up lis-tening to, but hadn’t performed:songs by Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nel-son, Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams,Jr. and others, including “SundayMorning Coming Down,” “Lovin’ HerWas Easier (Than Anything I’ll EverDo Again)” and “Whisky Bent & HellBound.”
Chesnutt said singing these songs isa lot different from listening to them.
“I was a little concerned,” Chesnuttsaid.
“I didn’t know how my versionwould measure up to those classic ver-sions. I’d listened to these songs but Ithought they really weren’t my style.”
But Chesnutt said in singing thesongs, he learned something.
“I realized these songs are reallyreally great,” Chesnutt said. “Theseguys are something. These guys arepoets.”
Chesnutt will perform at the CrystalPalace tonight, starting at 8. He saidhis show will be an “acoustic set.”
“It’s fun for the audience to hear astripped-down version of the songs,plus we get to talk to the audience,”Chesnutt said.
Chesnutt said he takes requests atacoustic shows, even if he and hisband don’t really know the song.
“We’ll give it a shot, and we’ll seewhat happens,” Chesnutt said.
Even recording “Outlaw” was a newadventure for Chesnutt, who has alarge collection of gold and platinumrecords and various awards he hasearned over the decades. While Ches-
nutt has famously stayed near homein Texas, he has traditionally recordedin Nashville.
But for “Outlaw,” Chesnutt came toLos Angeles of all places to work withguitarist and producer Pete Anderson.
“Pete captures your performance,”
Chesnutt said. “He’s not worried about perfection,
he’s concerned about the perform-ance and its soul.”
“If you make it too perfect, you loseall that. You might get a perfect record-ing but you lose the soul.”
Chesnutt said he and Andersonworked differently from the four-hour,multi-tasking studio standard, insteadcoming in at night and recording untilthey were through.
He said his part of the recording“Outlaw” took two nights of produc-tion.
“I liked that better because it felt likeI was the only project Pete was work-ing on,” Chesnutt said.
Old Chesnutt? Nah, singervows new things at show
Even if Mark Chesnutt didn’t have anew album to promote, he’d still betouring 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 havea CD to promote, “Outlaw” on theSaguaro Road Record label. But thatis incidential to the tour.
“I doesn’t matter whether I have ahit record or not,” Chesnutt said.
So I asked him: Do you consideryourself a performing artist whooccasionally records, or a recordingartist who performs?
“I never thought about it that way,”Chesnutt said.
“But that’s exactly right: I am a per-forming artist who occasionallyrecords.”
Chesnutt is already jumping
around the United States and Canadaon a summer tour that includes theCrystal Palace this evening. Perform-ing is what he’s been doing since hewas about 16 years old, growing up inBeaumont, Texas.
“I told my daddy I wanted to gosing in some clubs,” Chesnutt said.
Chesnutt’s father, Bob, who wasalso a performing musician, took theyoung Mark along on gigs. After acouple of years, Chesnutt said hewanted to go to Nashville.
“My daddy said, ‘Son, if you moveto Nashville you’ll just be one of athousand great singers,’” Chesnuttrecalled. “ ‘You won’t be able to makea living — you’ll have to get a day joband you’ll see your music get setaside.”
Then came the hardest advice for ateenaged boy to hear: Be patient.
“My daddy said, ‘You just keep(performing in Texas) and one ofthese days you’ll get the attention ofone of the labels,’” Chesnutt said.
Chesnutt said he made a very goodliving playing as much as sevennights a week in Texas clubs.
His growing regional reputationultimately did attract the attentionon record executives, who traveled toBeaumont to hear the young per-former.
Chesnutt signed with MCA.“Daddy was right,” Chesnutt said.“He passed away right after my first
hit record,” Chesnutt said. “Every-thing he told me would happen in mycareer happened.”
“I’m just grateful I had a daddywho was so supportive,” Chesnuttsaid.— Susan Scaffidi
Mark ChesnuttWhen: 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, 328-
7560.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK CHESNUTT
Mark Chesnutt plans to perform an acoustic set during his appearancetonight at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace.
ON THE ROAD AGAIN ... AND AGAIN
Last Friday’s Country Throwdownat Rabobank managed to rockthe house as planned, I hope.
Although the show kicked off whilemost of Bakersfield was still at work at1 p.m., I did manage to catch a quickglimpse later in the day.
Walking into the theater at 5 p.m., Icaught Cali-country singer HeidiNewfield singing (and stage diving)away much to the delight of die-hardfans. The beer line was growing and asteady stream of cowboy hats beganherding in as 6 p.m. drew near. Unfor-tunately, I missed the “Bluebird Café”stage performances along with mostof Bakersfield earlier in the day.
I also couldn’t catch the rest of theperformances due to a schedulingconflict.
But based on what I read via Face-book and Twitter, the locals seemed tohave a good time into the eveningwith Montgomery Gentry and JameyJohnson getting rave reviews. Hope-fully, next year’s stop will be on a Sat-urday, so workin’ folks like myself andothers can plan accordingly.
Speaking of conflicting plans … Twocomedy shows go head to head thisSaturday. First it’s “Laughter Comedy”with funnymen Dane Forst, JoeAlaniz, Chase Brockett, Brian Rossand Ernesto Gomez at Desi Café, 4837
Panama Lane. Thatshow kicks off with
an 8 p.m. openmic hour. I’veseen them all,with theexception of
Gomez — butwith a face likethat, he has to
be funny. Over at Fishlips downtown, come-
dian Manny Maldonado is live withBako’s own Jim Trino, Ro Delle Grazieand more. That show kicks off at 8p.m. too, so if you’re struggling withwhich show to attend, flip a coin.
Summertime means the VANSWarped Tour is here again, hittingSoCal tomorrow in Carson at theHome Depot Center, and then Sundayin Ventura at Seaside Park. This year’slineup is as eclectic as ever with Alka-line Trio, Eyes Set To Kill, The Adoles-cents (a Rockin’ Roots no-show,)Voodoo Glow Skulls, alongside someodd bookings (Sum 41, Andrew WK,)and tons more. Looking to avoid thisweekend’s heat? Catch the Venturashow like most of Bakersfield will, andenjoy some mid-60 coolness.
If you can’t leave town, Sandrini’s indowntown celebrates its fifth anniver-sary tomorrow night with music fromVelorio at 9 p.m. Back from a week-long tour to Oregon, the band man-aged to make it home safely aboardtheir touring vessel — a convertedshortbus that runs on restaurant
kitchen grease.
Matt’s picksLes Dudek at Fishlips, 8 p.m.
today, $20, 324-2557.Famous for his stint with the All-
man Brothers Band, where he playedlead guitar on “Ramblin’ Man,”Dudek’s been around. From the SteveMiller Band to Boz Skaggs and more,his bluesy riffs are highly recommend-ed.
Jeffree Star and Brokencyde atJerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., 6p.m., Thursday, $17, 633-1000.
If you’re into the bizarre and unusu-al, this is the show for you. Part alien,Jeffree’s music is pure debaucherywith titles like “Eyelash Curlers &Butcher Knives,” and “Plastic SurgerySlumber Party.” Not recommended fora first date.
Blood, Spit, and Tears art show atSacred Gypsy Tattoo, 826 18th St., 7p.m., Saturday, $7, 323-7179.
Check out some great tattoo artfrom some of the area’s best inksters,plus plenty of local outsider art fromKritty and more. There’s also musicfrom Backup Johnny, Il Sogno, TheIndians and DJ Josex, who specializesin all things “darkside.” Last event theyhad was packed, so don’t be late!
20 The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010
Eye Street
Throwdown tidbitsThe Lowdown with Matt Munoz
Bakotopia Radio9 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
AND NO COMPROMISE
“Tony’s Pizza really piles it on!” -Pete Tittl
2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE 4750 COFFEE ROAD • 588-4700 4130 CALIFORNIA AVE • 325-4717 NEW
Manny Maldonado will be amongthe comedians performing on Satur-day night at Fishlips.
THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN
Beale Memorial Park ends itsmonthlong series of free concerts thisSunday with Bakersfield’s Jazz Couri-ers ensemble.
Led by drummer Dan Murillo, theJazz Couriers also features CSUB’sDoug Davis on piano; bassist GlennFong; trumpeter Mike Raney, trum-pet; Roy Medina on congas, saxo-phonist Isaiah Morfin; and guitaristPaul Cierley.
The band will be performing a col-lection of jazz and pop standardsalong with original compositions in
various ensembles forms. After the city voted to cut funding
totalling $17,000 for the summerband program in March, Cyndi Hicks,manager of the concert band that has
been performing for decades, wentinto action.
She collected enough funds to keepthe 71-year-old concert tradition alive,although the large band was replacedby smaller ensembles — a clarinetchoir, the Southside Chicago Seven,Brass a la Carte and the Jazz Couriers— for the four June shows. Althoughthe city didn’t sponsor any of theseconcerts, it provided a sound systemand custodial service for the events.
Blankets, lawn chairs, and a picnicare welcome. Early arrival is recom-mended.
JAZZ IT UP SUNDAY AT LAST CONCERT IN BEALE SUMMER SERIES
Free concertWho: The Jazz Couriers
When: 8 p.m. Sunday
Where: Beale Memorial Park,
500 Oleander Ave.
Information: 323-7928
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.
Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian 21
Eye Street
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G RAND O PENING C ELEBRATION of our new facility
Villa La Paz
You 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 ballroomdancing at the Greenacres CommunityCenter. “The kids are out of the houseand people get to do what they missedout when they were younger.”
The popular television show “Danc-ing with the Stars” has been the impe-tus for a lot of her students. In 2005, thefirst season of the show, 60 peoplesigned up for her class. However, theclasses she teaches are designed toteach basic skills and do not includethe intricate choreography performedby dancers on “Stars,” many of whomare professionals.
“I really admire people who do thatshow,” Bates added. “They have towork really hard from 8 to 10 hours aday to prepare for a performance.”
Most of the people she instructssimply want to learn new steps or topolish their skills, and most of all, justhave a good time doing it.
Two of Bates’ satisfied students areTony Shackleford, who owns a weedcontrol business, and his wife, JoanShackleford, a registered nurse. Tonysaid he got interested in taking lessonsafter seeing the film “Shall We Dance,”starring Richard Gere.
“We started about six years ago,”Tony said. “Sometimes we take a breakfor a few weeks but we just keep com-ing back because we have so muchfun.”
Their enthusiasm for dancinginspired the Shacklefords to organize aSaturday night dance with a 1950stheme at their church, St. John’sLutheran. The recorded music will bemostly from the big band swing era.
“It’s mostly East Coast swing or jit-terbug,” he said. “And it includes a 45-minute (dance) lesson — all for only abuck.”
In addition to jitterbugging, Batesteaches many other dance styles,including the fox trot, waltz, Argentinetango, samba, rumba, country two-step and the nightclub two step, adance that’s “fairly new and very popu-
lar right now.” Her current
six-week classbegan lastnight atGreenacresbut peoplecan still regis-
ter for it. Aver-age class size is
about 10 students and you don’t haveto come as a couple — singles are wel-come, too. The program is sponsoredby the NOR Recreation and Parks Dis-trict
Bates has been teaching informallysince she was about 16 and took herfirst formal lessons at the old ArthurMurray Studio location at 18th and Hstreets across from the Padre Hotel.
“It had a beautiful hardwood floor,”she recalled. “It was upstairs, aboveJudd’s, a really nice dress shop thatused to be there.”
Although Bates hasn’t appearedonstage in local musicals, she and herpartner, Lou Taylor, occasionally per-form for private groups. She also
instructs privately. Lately this hasinvolved two, and sometimes three,generations of a family who are plan-ning a wedding.
“It’s quite common these days, at thereception, for the bride and groom todance by themselves first,” sheexplained. “And then the parents andgrandparents get out on the floor.”
Hank Washington exhibitIf you happen to be in the down-
town area, I urge you to stop by Com-munity Trust Credit Union and take alook at an exhibit of acrylic paintingsby Henry “Hank” Washington.
Washington, who teaches art atSouth High School, has a powerfulstyle. His artwork is notable for a richblend of colors and a technique of tex-turing that resembles pointillism.
I first met the artist in May when Iinterviewed him and his studentAndrew Frausto, who won a top awardfrom the California Art EducatorsAssociation.
At the time, Washington mentionedthat he liked to paint faces and that’sevident in two of portraits at the bank:“Sister,” and “Sisters of Color.” Theseare tremendously expressive faces thatemit a sort of golden glow and gave mea feeling that each had a story I’d like tohear. Equally impressive is a “He ain’tHeavy,” which depicts a young girl witha proud but defiant look on her facewho is carrying her little brother in asling on her back. Arts Council of Kernis sponsor of the exhibit. It will be upthrough June 30.
Shakespeare auditionsDirector Bob Kempf, who was active
in the defunct Kern Shakespeare Festi-val during its 25-year run, is holdingtryouts for a production of “As You LikeIt” at The Empty Space this weekend.
Auditions are open to the public andwill consist of readings from the play.Prepared monologues are welcome.Rehearsals begin July 18; performanc-es are scheduled for Sept. 9 throughOct. 2.
‘Rockin’ Back the ClockDance’ 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
GO & DO
CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN
Ballroom dance instructors Barbara Bates and Lou Taylor, right, along withstudents Tony and Joan Shackleford, left, demonstrate some of their dancemoves at the Greenacres Community Center.
Dancing hot amongthe empty nester set
22 The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010
Eye Street
BY MARK E. SLATERContributing writer
There’s something coming over the air-waves this weekend, but don’t be alarmed.Kern County Central Valley Amateur RadioClub is taking part in the annual Field Dayevent, which is held locally at College Park.
Held the fourth full weekend of June,beginning at 1800 UTC Saturday and end-ing at 1800 UTC Sunday (that’s 11 a.m. Sat-urday to 11 a.m. Sunday in CoordinatedUniversal Time, for those not in the know),Field Day is a large-scale emergency pre-paredness exercise for amateur radio oper-ators from the United States and Canada.
Operators set up and run portable sta-tions using emergency power, trying tomaintain reliable communications by con-tacting as many other amateur stations aspossible during the 24-hour period. Usingimprovised field conditions and operatingindependent of commercial power helpsparticipants simulate the conditions of anemergency situation.This exercise tests theusers, their equipment and helps themimprove their operating skills.
There is something at Field Day foreveryone. Whether your interest lies inlearning how to set up a portable or emer-gency station, how to operate HF (high fre-quency), satellites operations, digitalmodes, CW (continuous wave), or justsocializing with other hams, Field Day is theplace to get it all at once in one weekend.Field Day is "the most fun you can havewith ham radio" in one day.
Even if you don’t belong to the club orhave a license, you can participate. Theclub will provide a tour of the site, and ifyou are interested will show you everythingthat you need to know to get on the air. Nowis the time to see what amateur radio andField Day is all about.
Field Day is open to all, amateur or not,using any and all amateur bands (excludingthe 60, 30, 17, and 12-meter bands), andusing as many modes of radio communica-tions as possible. Besides the trainingaspect of Field Day it is also to acquaint thegeneral public with the capabilities of ama-teur radio.
Another nice part about Field Day for thenovice or technician class operators oroperators without a station of their own is achance to get on the air or get on the air outof the restriction of their current licenseclass. The Field Day use of the High Fre-quency bands that offers a taste of DX’ingto the Novice and Technician operator.Also, you may get to operate a mode ormodes that you have not tried or given athought about before. The local club will beusing the club call W6LIE and will probablybe running something like 5A or 6A.
The W6LIE Field Day operation will beheld on the lawn at College Park, PanoramaDrive and Mount Vernon Avenue across thestreet from Bakersfield College and next tothe County Communication Center. Mark E. Slater is the president of the KernCounty Central Valley Amateur Radio Club.
A real Field Dayfor amateur radio
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
Field DayWhat: 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
CONTEST KEEPS THINGS INTERESTING
Looking for something to do withthe 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.
FAMILY MOVIES IN THE PARK
WARNER BROS. PICTURES
Sandra Bullock stars in “The Blind Side.”
Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian 23
Eye Street
THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN
Award-winning gospel singerMarvin Sapp is bringing his soulfulsound to the Fox Theater onWednesday night.
A critically acclaimed singer-songwriter, Sapp gained promi-nence as a member of legendarygospel super-group Commis-sioned, along with vocalist/bassistFred Hammond during the ’90s.
Releasing seven solo albums inthe contemporary gospel genre,Sapp first experienced crossoversuccess on the R&B/Hip-Hop Bill-board charts in 2007 with hisalbum “Thirsty.”
Selling more than 500,000copies, his follow-up, last year’s“Here I Am,” debuted at No. 2 onthe Billboard Hot 200, making itthe highest charting album ever by
a gospel artist. Of “Here I Am,” Sapp says it taps
into a familiar theme very impor-tant to him: that all are worthy inGod’s eyes. “It’s for anybody that’sever been told, ‘You’ll never beanything,’ or anyone whoacknowledges that they have madea mistake in life,” Sapp said. God“sees the best in you when every-one else sees the worst.”
Singing since the age of 4, Sapphas been the recipient of StellarAwards and a Gospel Music Excel-lence Award and has been nomi-nated for Grammy, Soul TrainMusic and Dove awards.
Also on the lineup is specialguest Tonya Austin.
For more information about theshow, call the Fox Theater at 324-1369.
Acclaimed gospel singer Marvin Sapp to perform at Fox Theater
BY MIRANDA WHITWORTHContributing writer
Come one, come all: If you’rea car enthusiast, put rubberto the road and make Hoot-
ers your Thursday night destina-tion.
The Rosedale Highway restau-rant/bar, which started up SummerCar Nights last week, asks anyonewith a classic — or any ride thatdeserves a little appreciation — toput it on display.
Manager Eunice Renteria hopesSummer Car Nights will put Hoot-ers ahead of the pack when itcomes to weekday events: “Wewanted to do something different,
something that not everyone else isdoing. A car night is something weknow the community will getbehind and we can be proud tohave our name on.”
Bakersfield is a hotbed for carenthusiasts, and the RosedaleHighway location of Hooters doesnot lack for exposure. Portions ofthe parking lot that sit on the road-way will be reserved for thoseshowing their vehicles.
The spot will allow passers-by afull 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 isoffering more incentives to comeout by giving away trips to LasVegas through the summer. Win-ners will be put up in the HootersHotel, a $100 gas card in theirhands. Those who show their vehi-cles will also be given a 15 percentdiscount card to be used duringfuture trips to the restaurant.
If you think Thursday night isjust the lull before the weekend,Renteria hopes to change thatmindset.
“Thursday nights should bewhen the party starts. You may takeit a little easy and save yourself forFriday, but Thursday is the day tokick off the weekend!”
Summer Car Nights runsthrough Aug. 26.
Thursday nights areSummer Car Nights
Roll out your best setof wheels at Hooters
BY MIRANDA WHITWORTHContributing writer
To make it in this game, youneed guts, a sense of fun ... aswell as duct tape and a dispos-able outfit. That’s what it takesto get down and dirty at the18th annual Kern CountyEpilepsy Society Mud Volley-ball Tournament, taking placeSaturday at Stramler Park.
For those who have never hitthe muddy courts, be preparedto embrace the mud, saysDoug Valdez, officer managerfor the Kern County EpilepsySociety. “Wear something youdon't plan on wearing again!You will be covered head to toein mud, plan on it.”
Valdez is not exaggerating.The double elimination tour-nament takes place under thesun and in ankle-deep, muddywater in the volleyball courtsadjacent to Stramler Park. Withsuch conditions, players willwalk away completely coveredin mud, but maybe minustheir shoes.
Player Scott Frasnelly, vicepresident of marketing for theBakersfield Condors — whichhas a team at the event everyyear — has a strategy for footprotection. “I am mostly wor-ried about my shoes staying onmy feet. I think I am going togo with water socks and ducttape. It sounds crazy but that'swhat you have to do to keepyour shoes from getting left inthe muck.”
Frasnelly is not alone. Rollsof duct tape can be found inevery tent surrounding thecourts, and veteran competi-tors are not shy when it comesto wrapping the silver cure-allaround their shoes and uptheir calves to keep theirfootwear firmly in place.
The tournament starts withcheck-in at 7:30 Saturdaymorning, with games kickingoff at 8:30 a.m.
Teams must contain six to 10members and two women arerequired to be on the courts at
all times. Proceeds from the event go
to the KCES to help fund theirmany programs.
Valdez says the organizationnot only provides care forthose living with epilepsy, butalso covers education and pre-vention.
“The money we raise fromthis event helps us to go outinto the community. We go toschools and talk about epilep-sy and help people open upabout the condition. We alsoprovide car seats to low-income families. Injuries fromcar accidents can lead toseizure disorders, and we wantto do what we can to stop thatfrom happening.”
Food and refreshments willbe sold during the competi-tion. But competitors have theoption of renting a spacearound the courts where theycan set up tents for shade andseating for tailgating. Withdowntime for players betweenthe games, Valdez says the dayhas become less about compe-tition and more about having agood time.
“We all become like friendsand family. We are out there tohave a good time and it's defi-nitely a great party.”
Embrace the mudfor a good cause
Summer Car NightsWhen: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays
Where: Hooters, 4208
Rosedale Highway
Information: 634-9464
18th annual KernCounty EpilepsySociety's MudVolleyball TournamentWhen: 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
Marvin SappWhen: 7 p.m.
Wednesday
Where: Bakersfield Fox
Theater, 2001 H St.
Admission: $39.50,
$44.50 and $54.50
Information: 324-1369
SEAN WORK / THE CALIFORNIAN
Anthony Grant of Bakersfield revs the engine of “Opal,” his 1967 Camaro, which he named after his grand-mother. Grant brought his car out to Hooters last Thursday for Summer Car Nights, a weekly car show thatwill continue through the summer.
BY STEFANI DIASCalifornian Assistant Lifestyles Editor
For all the Twi-hards in town, “Eclipse”is less than a week away. But for thosewho don’t think vampires can have a
heart of gold or should woo teenagers,Christopher Farnsworth has something dif-ferent for you. The Los Angeles screenwriterwill be signing copies of his vampire tale“Blood Oath,” at Russo’s Books on Saturday.
Farnsworth’s first novel, which has beendescribed as “24” with vampires, followsthe adventures of Nathaniel Cade, the“president’s vampire,” who, much like JackBauer, operates using any means necessaryto protect the United States, along with thehelp 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 managerJason Frost read an advance copy andsays he “was smitten like a teeny-bopperis with Justin Bieber.”
He convinced Farnsworth to includeBakersfield at the end of his cross-countrybook tour.
In advance of his visit Saturday,Farnsworth answered a few questionsabout vampires, his book and Bakersfield.
Vampires are everywhere right now— movies, books, TV — and althoughyou’ve said you don’t like vampires, isthere anything vampire-related out in
pop culture now that you’ve thoughtwas inventive or interesting?
While I don’t like vampires — the firstnightmare I ever had was about a vampireand they still scare me — I’m still fascinatedby them, and always looking for new twistson the genre. I love the Joe Pitt books byCharlie Huston, which looks at vampsthrough the lens of a crime novel. I’ve just
started “The Passage” by Justin Cronin, andI’m fascinated by both his elegant writingand the idea of a vampire-themed apoca-lypse. I love the HBO series “True Blood,”which just gets better with each episode.And I’m reading “American Vampire,” acomic-book series by Scott Snyder andStephen King, which has the intriguingconcept of a unique strain of home-grownvampirism.
So you’ve admitted you’re scared ofvampires and that yours, Cade, shouldnever be thought of as “the good guy.”Why do you think other current taleshave tried to make vampires more warmand fuzzy?
We’re scared of so much in the worldright now that I think we find it comfortingto have monsters on our side. It’s hardenough dealing with the thought of terror-ism, biological weapons, swine flu, androgue nuclear states. We need to tame ourfears 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 whenthey searched the car — I’ve never been toBakersfield. But that’s changing now thatI’ve connected with Russo’s Books. Most ofmy sales have come from independentbooksellers, and it’s because of stores likeRusso’s and booksellers like Jason Frost. Hegot in touch with me as soon as he read theadvance copy and showed an almostbloodthirsty zeal for the novel. Faced withthat kind of response, I had to visit.
Do you have any local plans before orafter the signing?
I’m going to buy Jason the biggest steakhe can consume. Suggestions for a goodsteakhouse are always welcome.
You say it’s key for aspiring writers toget out and “get a life.” With an eye onBakersfield, what would you recom-mend they go out and do?
Pretty much anything. Any experiencecan become grist for the mill of writing, butthe first and most important thing to do isto get out the door and experience it.
The Internet makes it easier than ever forwriters to stay inside at recess and avoid theplayground, and I’m as guilty of that as any-one. But it can also give you good ideas for aplace you’ve never been — like Bakersfield,say. I had no idea there was a stealth fighterthat crashed near town in the 1980s. (Ormaybe that’s just the cover story.) Or thatthe whole town is apparently haunted. Orthat Ronald Reagan saw a UFO in the skythere. (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,” whichis a compendium of all the ways humanbeings can die, and “The Ark,” by BoydMorrison, which is a thriller about an engi-neer who gets entangled in a conspiracysurrounding Noah’s Ark. Next up is “Sto-ries,” edited by Neil Gaiman, and “TheWhisperers” by John Connolly.
Random question: Would you ratherbe a zombie or a vampire?
Vampire. No contest. Zombies are brain-dead, shuffling, decaying, mindless con-sumers. There’s nothing at all attractiveabout that. Whereas, vampires have almostno downside any more.
You mention among your inspirationsmany in the comic book/graphic novelworld. Have you considered an illustrat-ed version of “Blood Oath” or futuretales?
I hope to do something with one of thecomic companies, and I’m talking to them.As a kid, I wanted to grow up to writecomics. I’ve been a reporter, screenwriterand now novelist. It’s been a long wayaround, but I’m getting closer.
We’re the last stop on this tour, andwe’re honored. Is it because we’re soclose to home or is there a more excit-ing reason?
It’s because Bakersfield is close to homeand because of Jason at Russo’s. I’ll goalmost anywhere they’ll have me, but hemade me feel like Bakersfield would reallywelcome me.
You wrote this during the writersstrike, when you couldn’t write it as ascript. Now that’s it’s completed, whatare you plans to take it to the bigscreen?
The novel and the second book in theseries have actually been optioned for filmby Lucas Foster, who produced “Mr. & Mrs.Smith” and “Law-Abiding Citizen,” amongmany others. I like Lucas, and I think he’sgoing to turn it into a great movie. It’s stillvery early, but I’m really looking forward toit. (Farnsworth has said he’d be interested inChristian Bale as Cade and Justin Long asZach.)
You’re working on a follow-up now.Are you envisioning this to be a long-running series? What is your favoritebook series?
I’ve got ideas for the first 10 books prettywell fleshed out. After that, I have scraps ofpaper with some random notes. So we’ll seehow far I can get.
As for my favorite series, John Sandford’s“Prey” books still manage to knock it out ofthe park regularly. I hope to have as longand productive a run as his.
Is the second book your next big proj-ect or is there something else in theworks?
The second book in the series, “BlackSite,” is taking up all my time right now.After that, I need to get to work on booknumber three. I’m on a pretty tight sched-ule. But I’m lucky in that I really enjoy play-ing around in this world. I have a lot of funwith these stories, and I can see living withthese characters — so to speak — for a long,long time.
24 The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010
Eye Street
Q&A: Author reveals his vampire secretsBook signing
With author
Christopher
Farnsworth of
“Blood Oath”
When: 1 to 3 p.m.
Saturday
Where: Russo’s
Books, 9000 Ming
Ave.
Information:665-4686
PHOTO COURTESY OF DANIEL REICHERT
Christopher Farnsworth, author of“Blood Oath,” will hold a book signingSaturday at Russo’s Books.
Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian 25
Eye Street
THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN
Metro Galleries is currently acceptingapplications and art submissions for inclu-sion in this year's Latination II art show,opening Sept. 3 during First Friday atMetro. The show, a celebration and explo-ration of Latino life, is co-sponsored byMAS Magazine.
Original Latin-themed art pieces in theform of painting, pottery, sculpture, pho-tography, glass and mixed media will beaccepted 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 sec-ond place and a student category will beawarded to winners.
The Sept. 3 opening reception begins at 5p.m. and will include live music and horsd'oeuvres.
For more information, please contactMetro Galleries director Don Martin at 634-9598.
Downloadable applications can also befound online at themetrogalleries.com/
The exhibit runs through Sept. 25.
Calling all artists for Latination submissions
BY TRACY HUNTERContributing writer
As throngs of teens eagerly await nextweek’s midnight premiere of the vampire-romance movie “The Twilight Saga:Eclipse,” Houchin Community Blood Bankoffers some of those young fans a chance tohelp a worthy cause.
In anticipation of the premiere, and tocelebrate local 16-year-olds new ability todonate blood (with parental consent),Houchin has put together a “TwilightEvening Blood Drive” on Friday from 5 to 10p.m. There will be decorations similar toscenes from the Twilight series books andphotos with a cardboard “cast,” plus freefood and drawings for prizes.
“Summer is a time when blood dona-tions decline because school is out,” notesHouchin President and CEO Greg Gallion.“Our hope is the ‘newly able to donate’ 16-year-olds will see this as a fun opportunityfor community service that will help savelives.”
High school students comprise one-thirdof all blood donated in Kern County. Duringthe 2009-2010 school year, Houchin held 62blood drives yielding 4,880 units of blood.High school seniors comprised 45 percentof all students donating during the schoolyear.
To donate, 16-year-olds must have validpicture ID, proof of birth date, and a con-sent form signed by a parent or guardian.Forms are available online at hcbb.com orcan be picked up at the blood bank prior tothe event.
The blood drive is open to all, whetherteen or adult Twilight fans. The first 75donors will receive a buy-one-get-one-freemovie pass donated by Reading Cinema.The grand prizes will be Team Edward andTeam Jacob gift boxes that include two ofthe much-coveted tickets to the midnightpremiere, as well as Twilight T-shirts, calen-dars, book bags and more.Tracy Hunter is an account manager in theCommunity Development Department atHouchin Community Blood Bank. Shecoordinates community blood drives and canbe reached at 323-4222.
Tapping ‘Twilight’ veinfor young blood donors
‘Twilight Evening Blood Drive’When: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday
Where: Houchin Community Blood
Bank, 5901 Truxtun Ave.
Information: Call Tracy Hunter at 323-
4222.
To download parental consent forms
for 16-year-old donors, go to hcbb.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF TRACY HUNTER
The Twilight “cast” will be available for photos with donors at Friday’s blood drive.
26 The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010
Eye StreetGO & DO
TodayAdult 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. VisaliaRawhide, 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” SummerReading 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.
FridayLuau 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 WashFundraiser, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, Name Your
Price Thrift Store, 212 21st St.
Saturday18th annual Mud VolleyballTournament, 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
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’sPicnic, 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 FarmersMarket, Artisan and MerchantFair, 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 TravelClub, 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 760-
379-1933.
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.
SundayMusic 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 PadreHotel, 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 studentartwork, 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
AcousticKern 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.
AlternativeFishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St.,
324-2557; Joey Romley & Friends,
9 p.m. Tuesdays.
BluesVinny’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 NetworksAmphitheatre, 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.
CountryTrouts & the BlackboardStages, 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., 392-
1747; Crossroads, 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday.
CoverSandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 322-
8900; Chrisanova and friends, 9
p.m. today.
DancingJoaquin 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
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Thursday, June 24, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian 27
Eye Streetages, 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 DanceClub, 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.
DJB. 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., 322-
8900; 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 & SpiritsMerchant, 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 MexicanRestaurant, 4215 Rosedale
Highway, 633-1948; 6 to 10 p.m.
today; happy hour all day with
karaoke 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday.
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 IronSaloon, 1807 N. Chester Ave., 6 to
10 p.m. every Friday.
Maria Bonita MexicanRestaurant, 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, 323-
0053; 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., 392-
1747; 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.