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• Down the Rabbit Hole exhibit — Jan 29, 2010 5:30pm - Mar 25, 2010 5:00pm
  The Arts Council of Kern presents "Down the Rabbit Hole," a juried exhibit of artwork inspired by Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." Also on display is "Outside in Wonderland," artwork created by members of "Outside in Visual Arts Workshop" for artists with developmental disabilities. The opening reception for these exhibits is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29 at the Younger Gallery, 1440 Truxtun Ave., Suite 105. Cost is $5 for guests and free for ACK members. RSVP to 622-4243. For details, visit www.kernarts.org.
• I Hate Shakespeare! — Feb 26, 2010 7:00pm - Apr 3, 2010 7:00pm
  The Gaslight Melodrama presents "I Hate Shakespeare!" Feb. 23 through April 3. With zombies, talking cows, and an appearance by Jerry Springer, the show is a fast-paced rundown of all things Shakespeare -- with a modern twist. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $18 to $20 (half price for children). The theater is located at 12748 Jomani Drive. For information or reservations call 587-3377 or visit www.themelodrama.com.
• Youth Art Month: Art Shapes the World — Mar 4, 2010 5:30pm - Apr 6, 2010 5:00pm
  View top local high school art in "Art Shapes the World," Bakersfield's Youth Art Month student art show from March 4 to April 6 at Center for the Arts at JP Jennings, 1700 Chester Ave. An opening reception and awards is from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 4.
• Cross Pollination at Surface Gallery — Mar 5, 2010 5:00pm - May 1, 2010 5:00pm
  Surface Gallery hosts an opening reception from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 5, to celebrate the Encaustic art work of Michele Bosak, Julia Heatherwick, Eric Hesse and Sarah Seabolt. Encaustic is an ancient painting medium that combines colored pigment with hot wax as a binder. Each artist in the exhibit uses this medium in a unique way, showcasing its diversity and possibilities. The show runs through May 1.
• Spring 2010 Exhibits at BMOA — Mar 11, 2010 6:00pm - May 23, 2010 8:00pm
  The Bakersfield Museum of Art's Spring 2010 Exhibits include Japanese art, art inspired by the garden, and paper drawings. The opening reception is from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 11, at 1930 R St. Admission is free to museum members and $10 for others. The exhibits run through May 23. For more information, call 323-7219 or visit www.bmoa.org.
• Bakersfield Jazz Workshop — Mar 24, 2010 6:30pm - 10:00pm
  The Bakersfield Jazz Workshop is held every Wednesday night at Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane. The beginning level jazz improv class is from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by a performance by a guest artist from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., and an open jazz jam session from 8:30 to 10 p.m. for intermediate, advanced and professional musicians. The March 24 special guest is Jay Smith Trio. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. For more information, visit www.bakersfieldjazzworkshop.com.
• Rudolf Budginas, Pianist — Mar 24, 2010 7:30pm - 9:30pm
  The Bakersfield Community Concert Association presents pianist Rudolf Budginas in concert at Rabobank Theater at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 24. Rudolf is known for his piano playing and comedic commentary. In his ingenious show “You, Me & the Piano,” Budginas illustrates how classical music has influenced contemporary artists by actually breaking down how Billy Joel might have drawn on Liszt’s “Hungarian Rhapsody” to get “Piano Man.” He teaches at Cuesta College in San Louis Obispo. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Adult season memberships are $50 (two concerts left). Call 205-8522 or visit www.bakersfieldcca.org.
• Mile 124: Music, art and community — Mar 26, 2010 7:00pm - 10:00pm
  Life Journey Church hosts Mile 124 (a catalyst for expression & reflection pointing to God). Music, art & community featuring: Matt Mizell 7-8p, The Boasting Weak 8-9p, & Ellie Enns 9-10p. Mile 124 is creative atmosphere ideal for decompressing and reflecting. Unwind & express with provided art supplies/ bring your own or any works in progress. Free wifi, coffee, treats and childcare.
  Webcast live @ www.lifejourneychurch.tv.
• Metro Galleries downtown cleanup day — Mar 27, 2010 8:00am - 11:00am
  Metro Galleries is hosting a downtown cleanup day from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 27, starting at the corner of Eye and 19th streets. We'll be focusing on the Arts District and picking up trash, wiping away grafitti, sweeping sidewalks, planting flowers and shrubs and more. Trash bags, bottled water and pick up sticks provided. Bring a shovel, gloves, and a broom. Donations of flowers, shrubs and refreshments are gladly accepted.
• Autism Workshop: Conservatorship and Special Needs Trust — Mar 27, 2010 8:30am - 12:00pm
  Autism Society Chapter-Kern Autism Network will present "Conservatorship and Special Needs Trust," a workshop for parents of autistic individuals. The workshop will be held at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools office, 1300 - 17th Street, Room 1B, in Bakersfield, from 8:30 a.m. until noon on Saturday, March 27. Our presenters will be Barry Rosenfeld and Richard McBurnie. This workshop will benefit parents who have children of all ages. Reservations are on a first come, first served basis. This workshop is free. Seating is limited to 60 and reservations are required. To register to attend, call 661-588-4235 or email kernautism@gmail.com.
• Spring Fling at CALM — Mar 27, 2010 9:00am - Apr 3, 2010 5:00pm
  During spring break, CALM offers free admission for children ages 3 to 17 with a paid adult admission from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 27 to April 3. Free admission includes “Animal Encounters” — animal keeper presentations with live animals, three times a day. Docents will also be strolling the grounds with CALM’s Ambassador Animals to provide up close insights into the zoo’s creature residents. The Central California Children’s Railroad will operate from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., each day (weather permitting). There will also be a Children’s Craft Corner at the same times. Call 872-2256 or visit www.calmzoo.org.
• Cinema Saturdays at Valentien Restaurant — Mar 27, 2010 8:00pm - 10:00pm
  Valentien Restaurant and Wine Bar hosts "Cinema Saturdays" in March. They'll be showing films on their patio at 3310 Truxtun Ave. Suite 160, with special menu items relating to each movie. The March 20 film is "Sideways." Bring your own Pinot (no corking fee) and the chef will prepare pairings. For details call 864-0397.
• Bakersfield Jazz Workshop — Mar 31, 2010 6:30pm - 10:00pm
  The Bakersfield Jazz Workshop is held every Wednesday night at Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane. The beginning level jazz improv class is from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by a performance by a guest artist from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., and an open jazz jam session from 8:30 to 10 p.m. for intermediate, advanced and professional musicians. The March 31 special guest is Kelulu. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. For more information, visit www.bakersfieldjazzworkshop.com.
• Pianist and percussionist Danny Holt — Apr 1, 2010 3:00pm - 10:00pm
  The CSU Bakersfield Department of Music welcomes Danny Holt to the Doré Theatre on April 1.  Holt, a faculty member in the Herb Albert School of Music at California Institute of the Arts, will present two events during his day-long residency at CSUB. He will hold a question and answer session about the music he is currently performing at 3 p.m. and a recital of newly composed music for piano and percussion at 8 p.m.  This unique set of compositions showcases Holt playing a 7-foot grand piano and a full multi-percussion set-up simultaneously. Both events are in the Doré Theatre.  The question and answer session is free and open to the public while tickets for the recital are $5 for general admission, $3 for seniors (60+) and free for students of all ages.  Tickets will be available 45 minutes before the recital begins.
• Woody Y Century and Family Fun Ride — Apr 10, 2010 6:30am - 3:00pm
  Start the cycling season by participating in this ride to benefit the Asthma and COPD Education Center (ACEC). ACEC is a new nonprofit dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of those with asthma and COPD through direct services to all Kern County residents. The ride begins at CSUB, 9001 Stockdale Highway, and loops to Woody (Centry), Hart Park (40 miles) or Enos Lane (20 miles). Early registration ends April 1. Visit www.cyclingforasthma.com for details.
• Animal drawing class — Apr 10, 2010 1:00pm - 4:00pm
  Local artist Gita Lloyd is offering age-specific animal drawing classes at California Living Museum from 1 to 4 p.m. the second Saturday of the month through May. The March 10 class is on herby herbivores for ages 16 to adult. Classes are $18 for members and $20 for others. Registration is required. Call Debby Kroeger at 872-2256 ext. 12.
• Cinema Saturdays at Valentien Restaurant — Apr 10, 2010 8:00pm - 10:00pm
  Valentien Restaurant hosts "Cinema Saturdays" this spring. They'll be showing films on their patio at 3310 Truxtun Ave. Suite 160, with special menu items relating to each movie. The April 10 film is "American Graffiti." Bring your hot rods and enjoy American-style cuisine. For details call 864-0397.
• Best of Kern Concert Tour Kickoff — Apr 15, 2010 7:00pm - 10:00pm
  Soulajar, Near Miss Mallet and Ron McOwen will headline the Best of Kern Concert Tour Kickoff at the Fox Theater April 15. Doors open at 7 p.m.; show starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10 general, $5 for students, seniors and Arts Council of Kern members. Tickets available through Vallitix or at the ACK, 2000 K St., Suite 110. Call 324-9000.
• Greater Bakersfield Green Expo — Apr 17, 2010 9:00pm - 9:00pm
  The Greater Bakersfield Green Expo of 2010 is joining forces with the Mayor's Great American Clean Up. The Expo will showcase recycling and renewable energy businesses throughout Kern County, while recognizing the talents of high school students in the Green Art and Green Sciences of today. The Expo is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Yokuts Park (enter from Empire Drive off of Truxtun Extension) Saturday, April 17. For more details, visit www.gbgreenexpo.org.
• Kern County Black Chamber Mixer — Apr 20, 2010 5:30pm - 7:30pm
  The Kern County Black Chamber of Commerce hosts its bi-monthly mixer from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 20, at DeVry University, 3000 Ming Ave. The topic is looking ahead to good economic news. Cost is $3 for chamber members and $5 for other. Refreshments by Chick-Fil-A.
• Autism Workshop: Brainstorming with Occupational Therapists — Apr 24, 2010 8:30am - 12:00pm
  Autism Society Chapter-Kern Autism Network will present “Brainstorming with Occupational Therapists,” a workshop led by Debi Hazel and Liz Ladabouche.  The workshop will be held at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools office, 1300 - 17th Street, Room 1B, in Bakersfield, from 8:30 a.m. until noon Saturday, April 24. Reservations are on a first come, first served basis.  This workshop is free.  Seating is limited to 70 and reservations are required.  To register to attend, call 661-588-4235 or email kernautism@gmail.com.
• Blues Series: Rory Block — Apr 25, 2010 6:30pm - 9:00pm
  World Records presents Rory Block as part of its "No Stinkin' Service Charge Blues Series" at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Doubletree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. Doors open at 6 p.m. and opening performance is by Olen Taylor. Tickets are $20 to $25. Call 831-3100 or visit shopworldrecords.com.
• Amgen Tour of California Pre-Ride — May 1, 2010 5:00am - 5:00pm
  The Bakersfield Sports Foundation invites amateur cyclists to participate in the official 2010 Amgen Tour of California Stage Five Pre-Ride on Saturday, May 1. Stage 5 begins in Visalia and goes through Glennville before finishing on Panorama Drive in front of Bakersfield College. The entry fee is $100 per rider and includes bus transportation to the chosen starting point (Visalia, 117 miles or Glennville, 40 miles), rider support along the route,  a T-shirt and a barbeque meal at the conclusion of the ride. Bicycles will be transported in enclosed vehicles to the designated starting point. For more information on the ride go to www.BakersfieldAmgen.com. Registration for the event is open through April 29 at www.socalreg.com/atoc. There will be no day of event registration.
• Animal drawing class — May 8, 2010 1:00pm - 4:00pm
  Local artist Gita Lloyd is offering age-specific animal drawing classes at California Living Museum from 1 to 4 p.m. the second Saturday of the month through May. The May 8 class is on beautiful omnivores for ages 12 to 15. Classes are $18 for members and $20 for others. Registration is required. Call Debby Kroeger at 872-2256 ext. 12.
• Walk for the Arts — May 15, 2010 8:00am - 12:00pm
  The Arts Council of Kern is hosting a Walk for the Arts in downtown Bakersfield on Saturday, May 15. Bring your families or use this for an opportunity to raise money for your nonprofit or school arts program. There will be live music, mural painting, free gallery and museum admissions and a finish line celebration. The 5K walk is from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 15, starting at the Betty Younger Sculpture Gallery at 1430 Truxtun Avenue and ending at Rabobank Arena. Cost is $10 per walker with a T-shirt and $5 without. Free for children 2 and under. Day-of cost is $10 with no guarantee of a T-shirt. Registration and pledge forms are available at www.kernarts.org. For more information, call the Arts Council of Kern at 324-9000.
• Italian Picnic — May 16, 2010 12:00pm - 6:00pm
  The Italian Heritage Dante Association will hold its Italian Picnic from noon to 6 p.m. May 16 in its Italian Garden at 4415 Wilson Road, Bakersfield. Barbecue dinner is $12 for adults and $5 for children; pasta plate is $6. There will be homemade Italian desserts, children's games, a bocce tournament, music, exhibits, a raffle and more. Admission is free. Contact Julia McKinley 661-831-0867 or Katie Ryan 661-834-0641.