1. art and entertainment
2. movies
3. film festivals and awards

KFCF Community Calendar: Updated 1/16/15
To post an event on our calendar e-mail the information to
[email protected], at least 2 weeks before the event.
DAILY CALENDAR
(Multiple Day and Ongoing Events are at end of posting)
Friday, January 16th
The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker Stan Santos on the topic of The TransPacific Partnership (TPP). The event takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 1208 L
Street, Reedley, in the Fellowship Hall at Reedley’s First Mennonite Church. For more
information, call Don Friesen at (559) 638-3091 or e-mail [email protected]. The
event is free, open to the public, and accessible to the handicapped.
Friday, January 16th
The Fresno Folklore Society presents John McCutcheon in concert at the Unitarian
Universalist Church of Fresno. John McCutcheon has an eclectic catalog of ballads,
historical songs, children’s songs, love songs, topical satire, fiddle and hammer
dulcimer instrumentals, and even symphonic works. His thirty-six albums have earned 6
Grammy nominations. His song Christmas in the Trenches was recently named one of
the 100 Essential Folk Songs. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30.
Tickets are $20 in advance or for Fresno Folklore Society members, or $25 at the gate.
Advance tickets can be purchased at National Hardware, Patrick's Music and
fresnofolkconcerts.com. The church is located at 2672 E. Alluvial Ave. (between Willow
and Chestnut) in Fresno. This is an all ages event, and kids under 12 are free. For
more information, call 559-307-3610 or go to folkmusic.com.
Friday, January 16th
Fresno Center for Nonviolence presents the start of a series showing Oliver Stone’s
“Untold History of the United States”. The series will continue on subsequent Fridays
until April 3rd. The notion of American exceptionalism still warps Americans’
understanding of their nation’s role in the world. Most are loathe admitting that the
United States has any imperial pretensions. But history tells a different story as
filmmaker Oliver Stone and historian Peter Kuznick reveal in this riveting account of the
rise and decline of the American empire. Aided by the latest archival findings and
recently declassified documents and building on the research of the world’s best
scholars, Stone and Kuznick construct an often shocking but meticulously documented
“people’s history” of the American empire that offers startling context to the BushCheney policies that put us at war in two Muslim countries and show us why the Obama
administration has had such a difficult time cleaving a new path. Their conclusions will
astonish even experts, but there is one question only listeners can answer: Is it too late
for America to change? The film will screen at 1 p.m. at the Fresno Center for
Nonviolence 1584 N. Van Ness (SE corner Van Ness and McKinley),
Friday, January 16th
The first of a series of events celebrating the life of Martin Luther King Jr. “Living the
Dream for Humanity: Yourself, Your Country, Your World,” presented by the Rev. Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Committee of Fresno, is the annual Garlanding Ceremony
from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Fresno County Courthouse Park (at MLK Bust on
west side of park), 1100 Van Ness Ave. The Opening Ceremony will feature Guest
Speaker Tony Sanders, Actor. Please bring flowers. For more information, contact:
Dr. Sudarshan Kapoor or Gail Gaston at (559) 681-3140.
Friday, January 16th
As part of this year’s Martin Luther King Celebration, there will be an Award Reception
from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Rutherford “Bud” Gaston Middle School, 1120 East Church, to
honor awardees for outstanding service to the community For more information
contact Anne Gaston at 862-3931 or Summer Gaston-Gehris at 301-5466.
Saturday, January 17th
As part of this year’s Martin Luther King Celebration, there will be a Community
Breakfast (Breakfast served at 9:0 a.m. with the Program beginning at 9:45 a.m.), at the
Clovis Veterans Memorial Building, 453 Hughes Ave, Clovis (Hughes & Fifth Street).
Guest Speaker will be Dr. Joseph Castro, President, Fresno State University and there
will also be other entertainment. Tickets are $5.00 each in advance and canned food
donation. Tables of 8 available at $40.00 with advanced reservation For more
information or to make a reservation, contact Erin Ford-Horio at (559) 324-2476 or
[email protected].
Saturday, January 17th
As part of this year’s Martin Luther King Celebration there will be a Candlelight Vigil at 6
p.m. at the Fresno City College Fountain outside of the Administration Building across
from the library, 1101 East University Avenue. Special tribute will be paid to Less
Kimber, our local hero who passed away on January 10th. Les was largely instrumental
in starting celebrations to honor Dr. Martin Luther King in Fresno. Pastor David Griner
of Saint Rest Baptist Church will be the keynote speaker in addition to local faith and
civic leaders. For more information, contact: Dr. Sudarshan Kapoor or Rev. Bruce
McAliste at (559) 227-9819.
Saturday, January 17th
The Fresno Affiliate of the national organization Move to Amend is proud to present the
FREE screening of the critically-acclaimed film, “PAY 2 PLAY, Democracy's High
Stakes” The film will be screened at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of
Fresno, 2672 E. Alluvial Avenue, between Chestnut and Willow, "Pay 2 PLAY" follows
filmmaker John Ennis' quest to find a way out from under the Pay 2 Play system, where
politicians reward their donors with even larger sums from the treasury - through
contracts, tax cuts, and deregulation. If our political system is like a game of Monopoly,
how can outsiders have a voice when only money speaks? Ennis documents comical
corruption, follows political newcomers and uncovers intrigue in this colorful journey that
connects the dots of Big Money in our ever-challenging election process. Discussion
post-film. Admission is free and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Light refreshments
will be available. For information, go to uufresno.org; or contact Glenda at 559-2911590 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Saturday, January 17th
January is National Mentoring Month and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California
is excited to show the impact that our matches can make on the whole community. With
a generous food donation from Gong’s Market in Sanger, Bigs and Littles will put
together lunches for the homeless in Sanger and distribute these lunches at HOPE
Sanger (1533 7th St #106 Sanger) at 9 a.m. This weekly event organized by HOPE
Sanger provides hope and relief to the homeless population in Sanger, and the Bigs
and Littles of Big Brothers Big Sisters Program are thrilled to be a part of their mission.
Saturday, January 17th
January is National Mentoring Month and Big Brothers Big Sisters is happy to join with
Metal Mark Climbing and Fitness Gym in showing appreciation to our mentors.
MetalMark has generously opened their doors to our Bigs and Littles for an evening of
dinner and climbing. The event will take place from 7-9 p.m. This is going to be a
unique and fun opportunity for our Bigs and Littles. The public is invited to come and
see the kind of impact that a mentor in our program can have on a child in the valley.
Metal Mark Climbing and Fitness Gym is located at 4042 N. Cedar, Fresno. For more
information, go to www.bigs.org.
Monday, January 19th
As part of this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, there will be a March and
“Mountain of Food” Collection from 9:15-10:45 a.m. at Fresno City Hall, 2600 Fresno
Street, Fresno Marchers assemble at 9:15 a.m and the March begins at 10:00 a.m., ,
ending at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium for Commemoration Program. The
Commemoration Program is from 10:45-12:00 noon and Veterans Memorial Auditorium,
is located at 2425 Fresno St. This year’s Featured Speaker is Delores Huerta featuring
a commemoration program celebrating community diversity and culture. “Mountain of
Food” will be collected at Fresno City Hall. For more information, contact: James Lett
III at (559) 284-6420 or Audrey Redmond at 213-5925.
Wednesday, January 21st
The Tehipite Chapter of the Sierra Club presents "Restoring Chinook Salmon to the San
Joaquin River - Challenges in Times of Drought." Professor of Biology at Fresno State,
Steve Blumenshine, will speak on this topic at the general meeting of the Tehipite
Chapter of the Sierra Club, starting at 7 p.m.. This event is free and open to the general
public. It takes place at UC Center, 550 E. Shaw Ave., Fresno.. For more information,
go to www.tehipitesierraclub.org.
Wednesday, January 21st
As part of the Valley Town Hall Lecture Series, Valerie Plame, author of “Fair Game: My
Life as a Spy, My Betrayal by the White House,” will be speaking at 10:30 a.m. at the
William Saroyan Theatre. As a covert CIA Officer, Valerie Plame worked to protect
America's national security for more than twenty years and worked to ensure that Iraq
did not acquire nuclear weapons. But in 2003, Plame found herself at the heart of a
political firestorm when senior White House and State Department officials revealed her
CIA status to several national journalists. Plame, who remained silent throughout the
controversy, eventually wrote her New York Times best-selling autobiography Fair
Game: My Life as a Spy, My Betrayal by the White House. In 2010, Fair Game was
made into a motion picture starring Sean Penn. Plame will share her expertise on
international security and deliver a candid analysis of the "security versus privacy"
debate dominating political and media circles today. For more information and this and
other speakers in this year’s series, go to valleytownhall.com.
Wednesday, January 21st
Pianist Nadia Shpechenko-Gottesman will perform music from her new CD, “Woman at
the New Piano: American Music of 2013.” She will appear at 8 p.m. in the Concert Hall
at Fresno State. Tickets are $15.00 general, $10.00 seniors, students are free with ID.
Thursday, January 22nd
Fresno Pacific University presents Soli Deo Gloria Women's Chorale, part of the Fresno
Pacific University Pacific Artist Series, at 7:30 p.m. at MacDonald Hall Atrium, FPU main
campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno. The cost is $12 general admission, $8
seniors, $5 students, payable at the door. For more information, call 559-453-2267 or email [email protected].
Friday, January 23rd
"Take Back Your Power" will be screened at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church
of Fresno, 2672 E. Alluvial Avenue, between Chestnut and Willow, Josh del Sol's
award winning documentary investigates so-called "smart" utility meters, which are
emerging as anything but smart. The film uncovers shocking evidence of in-home
privacy invasions, increased utility bills, health and environmental harm, fires and
unprecedented hacking vulnerability...and lights the path toward solutions. This event
is free and open to the public. There will be a discussion post-film, the venue is
wheelchair accessible, and light refreshments will be available. For information, go to
uufresno.org; or contact Glenda at 559-291-1590 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Friday, January 23rd
Cineculture presents a screening of “Gabrielle,” with discussant Dr. Rose Marie Kuhn.
Directed by French Canadian director Louise Archambault, Gabrielle is the story of a
young woman with Williams Syndrome whose “joie de vivre” or love of life touches
everyone. Since meeting Martin at the recreation center where they are both choir
members, they have become inseparable. However, because they are “different”, their
families are fearful of their blossoming relationship. As determined as she is, Gabrielle
must confront her own limitations in the hope of experiencing a love far from the
“ordinary”. Premiered at the Locarno Film Festival in August 2013, the film received
many awards in 2013 including: the Audience Award at the Locarno as well as the
Namur Film Festival, two Valois Prizes at the Festival du Film Francophone
d’Angouleme, and Best Film and Best Actress Award for Gabrielle Marion-Rivard.
Gabrielle was also selected to represent Canada at the 2014 Oscars for Best Movie in a
Foreign Language. The screening will be at 5:30 p.m. at the Peters Education Center
Auditorium (West of Save-Mart Center in the Student Recreation Center Building). For
more information, go to cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Friday, January 23rd
As part of a series of special events Commemorating Martin Luther King, Jr., and Black
History Month, Fresno Pacific University presents "Remembering and Renewing King's
Dream for Peace," The speaker will be Adam Ghali, Ph.D., assistant professor, Fresno
Pacific Biblical Seminary. In 1967 Martin Luther King, Jr. asked the American
Psychological Association to consider creative maladjustment: the capacity to racism,
poverty and violence. At this event we shall explore that still timely prophetic call.
This event is sponsored by Fresno Pacific University and takes place at 6 p.m. at the
African American Historical & Cultural Museum, 1857 Fulton St., Fresno. It is free and
open to the public. For more information, e-mail [email protected] or call 559453-2020.
Thursday, January 29th
David Barsamian will speak on “Howard Zinn and the Politics of Memory” at 6:30 p.m. at
the Fresno Center for Nonviolence,1584 N. Van Ness Ave (SE corner Van Ness and
McKinley),. Barsamian is one of America's most tireless and wide-ranging investigative
journalists. He has altered the independent media landscape, both with his weekly
radio show Alternative Radio (listen on KFCF Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to noon) - now
in its 29th year- and his books with Noam Chomsky, Eqbal Ahmad, Howard Zinn, Tariq
Ali, Richard Wolff, Arundhati Roy and Edward Said. The event is free and open to the
public. The venue is wheelchair accessible. For more information call 559-237-3223
Mon-Fri 11-3.
Thursday, January 29th
The Madera Coalition for Community Justice presents its 19th Annual Interfaith/
Intercultural Day Celebration Event. For 19 years this event has served as a venue for
community members to celebrate and take pride in the diversity within our city. Not just
ethnic minorities, but all cultures and all faiths! Residents come together to educate
each other about their different cultures and faith traditions by setting up informational
booths full of beautiful artwork, traditional clothing, cultural artifacts and other personal
symbols of their heritage. Every year the event also features several musical and dance
performances! The Madera Coalition for Community Justice (MCCJ), is a non-profit
organization which advocates on behalf of rural communities in Madera County. As an
organization, we value community collaboration and the many partnerships we have
developed through events like this one. If you are unable to participate, we’d still love to
have you attend! The 19th Annual Interfaith/Intercultural Day Celebration Event will be
held from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Madera Fairgrounds, 1850 W. Cleveland Ave, Madera,
CA 93637. This event is free and open to the public. If you need further information or
have questions on how to participate, please contact Mark Colley, Outreach
Coordinator, at (559) 661-1879
Friday, January 30th
Cineculture will screen “Kasheer: Art Cutlure & the Struggle for Azadi,” with discussant
David Barsamian of Alternative Radio. Kasheer explores the complexities of life in a
disputed territory from the point of view of three local artists living in the Kashmir Valley
— a conflict zone in the Indian Himalayas on the contested border with Pakistan. A
young political cartoonist offers biting satiric commentary on regional politics. A middleaged artist reflects on his childhood and the tragic changes the local insurgency brought
to his neighborhood in abstract ink drawings. An elderly artist’s vibrant spiritual paintings
reveal his quest for inner peace in the midst of perpetual social turmoil. Lushly
photographed, this observational documentary provides a human perspective, creating
space for thoughtful debate amid deeply polarizing politics. The screening will be at 5:30
p.m. at Fresno State’s Peters Education Center Auditorium (west of Save-Mart Center
in the Student Recreation Center Building). For more information, go to
cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Friday, January 30th
The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker David Cehrs on the topic: Water Issues in
the context of the passage of Proposition 1, California's Water Bond. The event takes
place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 1208 L Street, Reedley, in the Fellowship Hall at
Reedley’s First Mennonite Church. For more information, call Don Friesen at (559) 6383091 or e-mail [email protected]. The event is free, open to the public, and
accessible to the handicapped.
Saturday, January 31st and Sunday, February 1st
There will be a Weekend Course on Letting Go of Anger, sponsored by the Brahma
Kumaris World Spiritual Organization. You will learn: 1. to understand anger & its
impact on your life, 2. gain deeper understanding of mind/body/spirit connection &
3. tools to transform anger into peace & love. The class meets twice on Saturday Jan
31st & Sunday Feb 1st from 1:00 - 5:00 pm. at St. Paul Newman Center, 1572 E.
Barstow Ave, Fresno, in Cardinal Newman Hall, Room 104 (behind the main building).
The facilitator, Veena Kapoor, MSW, Ed.D. has been practicing and teaching meditation
for 22 years. She received her training from the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Center,
San Francisco. She conducts workshops and facilitates retreats on topics related to
spiritual development, healing and mental well being. Class size limited to 15.
These classes are free. Please register by Jan 28th 2015. Donations accepted for the
use of their facility. For more information or to register, call (559) 435-2212 or email:
[email protected].
Saturday, January 31st and Sunday, February 1st
The Sun Maid Kennel Club will hold two AKC all-breed dog shows as well as obedience
and rally trials. These events will be held at the Fresno County Fairgrounds and
admission is free. In addition to over 700 dogs in attendance, there will be vendors with
many products for dogs and their people. The show hours are about 8:30 a.m. – 4:00
p.m. both days. On Friday the Fresno Dog Training Club will hold obedience and rally
trials on the same grounds. For more information check the Sun Maid Kennel Club’s
web site: sunmaidkennelclub.org or contact Barbara at (559) 840-2299.
Monday, February 2nd
Fresno Center for Nonviolence will continue its series of film screenings showing Oliver
Stone’s “The Untold History of the United States”. The notion of American
exceptionalism still warps Americans’ understanding of their nation’s role in the world.
Most are loathe admitting that the United States has any imperial pretensions. But
history tells a different story as filmmaker Oliver Stone and historian Peter Kuznick
reveal in this riveting account of the rise and decline of the American empire. Aided by
the latest archival findings and recently declassified documents and building on the
research of the world’s best scholars, Stone and Kuznick construct an often shocking
but meticulously documented “people’s history” of the American empire that offers
startling context to the Bush-Cheney policies that put us at war in two Muslim countries
and show us why the Obama administration has had such a difficult time cleaving a new
path. Their conclusions will astonish even experts, but there is one question only
listeners can answer: Is it too late for America to change? The series will continue on
subsequent Mondays until March 30th. These screenings are free and open to the
public and the venue is wheelchair accessible. For more information call 559-237-3223
Mon-Fri 11-3.
Monday, February 2nd
As part of a series of special events Commemorating Martin Luther King, Jr., and Black
History Month, Fresno Pacific University presents "OF Ebony Embers-Vignettes of the
Harlem Renaissance," with the Core Ensemble. The event begins with a reception at
6:00 p.m., followed by the performance at 7:00 p.m. Performers are The Core Ensemble
chamber music group (cello, piano, percussion) and Jamyl Dobson, portraying painter
Aaron Douglas as well as writers Claude McKay, Langston Hughes and Countee
Cullen, all major figures in the 1920s flowering of African American culture known as the
Harlem Renaissance. This Event sponsored by Fresno Pacific University and takes
place at Butler Church, 4884 E. Butler Ave., Fresno. General tickets are $10; admission
for students with ID is free. For more information, call 559-453-558 or e-mail
[email protected].
Monday, February 2nd
The Junior League of Fresno is holding a Community Needs Forum. Join members of
the Junior League of Fresno and a panel of community leaders to discuss the key
issues facing Fresno's community. The panel includes Larry Powell, Retired
Superintendent, Fresno County Schools, Kendra Rogers, Director of Community
Investment, Granville Homes, Barbara Foster, Director, Specialized Foster Parent
Training Project, Linda Penner, Chair, Board of State and Community Corrections, Joel
Saldaña, Jr., Director of Community Engagement, Fresno EOC, and May Gnia Her, VP,
Community Impact, United Way. The event takes place at 6:30 p.m. at C.A.R.T Center for Advanced Research and Technology, 2555 Clovis Avenue, Clovis. This is a
free public event, all community members are welcome to attend. Kindly RSVP online at
www.jlfresno.org by January 28, 2015.
Thursday, February 5th
For the months of January and February 2015, Gallery 25 will present the solo exhibit of
Guest Artist, Kathryn Jacobi. This Los Angeles based artist who is an international
exhibiting artist will exhibit large-scale paintings, 60” x 40” in size on heavy-weight paper
of work that spans 30 years. Most of these pieces have never been exhibited. A large
body of this work is drawn from her “Between the Wars” series that has been exhibited
internationally. In addition, 232-2681 or Ms. Jacobi was the 2010 Distinguished Woman
Artist recipient chosen by the Council of 100, Fresno Art Museum. The first Opening
Reception Arthop was on Thursday, January 8 from 5-8 pm and the 2nd ArtHop
Reception Thursday, February 5 from 5-8 pm. Gallery 25 is located at 660 Van Ness
Avenue (at Mono in downtown Fresno), and the Gallery is open Fridays, Saturdays and
Sundays from noon-4pm. For more information, call 559-264-4092 or go to
gallery25.org.
Friday, February 6th
"Mobilize" will be screened at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Fresno,
2672 E. Alluvial Avenue, between Chestnut and Willow, The film provides an in-depth
look at the potential dangers of cell phone technology and the corporate resistance to
acknowledging these dangers. It explores the possible long-term health effects from
cell phone radiation, the most recent scientific research, and legislative efforts. This
event is free and open to the public. There will be a discussion post-film, the venue is
wheelchair accessible, and light refreshments will be available. For information, go to
uufresno.org; or contact Glenda at 559-291-1590 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Friday, February 6th
The Fresno Center for Nonviolence continues its screenings of Oliver Stone’s “Untold
History of the United States” at 1 p.m. at the Fresno Center for Nonviolence, 1584 N.
Van Ness (SE corner Van Ness and McKinley), (This is a repeat of Monday’s episode.)
The notion of American exceptionalism still warps Americans’ understanding of their
nation’s role in the world. Most are loathe admitting that the United States has any
imperial pretensions. But history tells a different story as filmmaker Oliver Stone and
historian Peter Kuznick reveal in this riveting account of the rise and decline of the
American empire. Aided by the latest archival findings and recently declassified
documents and building on the research of the world’s best scholars, Stone and
Kuznick construct an often shocking but meticulously documented “people’s history” of
the American empire that offers startling context to the Bush-Cheney policies that put us
at war in two Muslim countries and show us why the Obama administration has had
such a difficult time cleaving a new path. Their conclusions will astonish even experts,
but there is one question only listeners can answer: Is it too late for America to
change? The series will continue on subsequent Fridays until April 3rd. These
screenings are free and open to the public and the venue is wheelchair accessible. For
more information call 559-237-3223 Mon-Fri 11-3.
Friday, February 6th
The Reedley Peace Center presents Investigative journalist Bill Rempel on the topic
Racing To America. The experiences of 'undesirable immigrants' of a century ago:
Russian Mennonites. The event takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 1208 L Street,
Reedley, in the Fellowship Hall at Reedley’s First Mennonite Church. For more
information, call Don Friesen at (559) 638-3091 or e-mail [email protected]. The
event is free, open to the public, and accessible to the handicapped.
Friday, February 6th
Cineculture presents “The Pursuit of Happyness” with discussant: Dr. Ed EmanEl. In
2006 Will Smith and his son Jaden co-starred in one of the best films of 2006. The
movie tells the true life story of Chris Gardner, an African American, who in 1981 was
homeless in San Francisco, raising his son as a single father, without a job, with no
place to live and harassment from the IRS. Faced with this adversity, Gardner, armed
only with his superb intelligence, his unwavering dedication as a parent, and his
complete faith that hard work and diligence would eventually raise him out of this
avalanche of bad fortune, strives to make a success out of his life. This film ends in a
wonderful epiphany. The screenplay is written by Seven Conrad based on the bestselling memoir written by Chris Gardner and Quincy Troupe. The film is directed by
Gabriele Muccino. The screening will be at 5:30 p.m. at Fresno State’s Peters
Education Center Auditorium (west of Save-Mart Center in the Student Recreation
Center Building). For more information, go to cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Saturday, February 7th
Join Fresno’s environmental community for the March for Real Climate Leadership in
Oakland! They’re looking to mobilize 10,000 Californians to converge on Oakland,
home to Governor Jerry Brown, for a rally, march, and meeting of like-minded
Californians to tell Governor Brown he needs to take action on the environment. Join
Fresnans & Mercedians Against Fracking and other anti-fracking and environmentallyconscience Californians to tell Governor Brown we need real climate leadership—and
we need it now! Buses will leave from Fresno and Merced and other cities across the
state. If you are a student, you may get a Free ticket! For more information and to
sign up, go to: http://marchforclimateleadership.org. Bus tickets are available under
Transportation. Contact Marilynne for more information at (209) 631-3235 or visit our
Facebook Page: Mercedians Against Fracking.
Sunday, February 8th
There will be a talk and book signing by Marjorie Cohn. Her new book “Drones and
Targeted Killing: Legal, Moral, and Geopolitical Issues,” contains essays by 13 authors
and was edited by Cohn. She is a former president of the National Lawyers Guild and
lectures throughout the world on international human rights and U.S. foreign policy. Her
website is: http://www.marjoriecohn.com. This event takes place from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
at Community United Church of Christ, 5550 N Fresno St, Fresno (between Bullard and
Barstow). It is hosted by Peace Fresno. For more information, contact Dan Yaseen at
[email protected] or call 559.251-3361.
Sunday, February 8th
The Fresno Folklore Society presents Jann Klose in concert at Mia Cuppa Café. Jann
Klose won four categories in the Vox Pop segment of the IMA (Independent Music
Awards) this year. He sings Tim's parts in the movie, GREETINGS FROM TIM
BUCKLEY. His music appears on the Grammy-nominated album, “Healthy Food For
Thought,” MTV Cribs, and in the Paul Sorvino movie, “Dead Broke.” Jann's album
MOSAIC hit the Roots Radio charts at 22 and is on over 90 radio stations. Doors open
at 5:30 p.m. and the show begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 in adfvance or for FFS
members, or $20 at the door. Advance tickets will be available at National Hardware,
Patrick's Music and fresnofolkconcerts.com. Mia Cuppa Café is located at 620 E Olive
Ave., Fresno. For more information, call 559-307-3610.
Sunday, February 8th
Fresno Pacific University presents a Concert Choir with Fresno Christian High School,
at 6 p.m. at College Community Church/Mennonite Brethren, 2529 Willow, Clovis. This
event is free. For information call 559-453-2267 or e-mail [email protected].
Tuesday, February 10th
Women’s Imaging Specialist in Healthcare (WISH) is sponsoring five week fitness
classes tailored to meet the needs of chemotherapy patients, at no cost to the patient.
The next series of classes begin Tuesday, Feb10, 2015 from 6-7 p.m. at Rhonda’s
Fitness, 686 E. Bullard Ste. 102 in Fresno. For more information or to register, please
call Rhonda’s Fitness (559) 431-3600.
Thursday, February 12th
Ricardo Guevara, guitar, part of the Fresno Pacific University Pacific Artist Series, The
concert takes place att 7:30 p.m. at MacDonald Hall Atrium, FPU main campus, 1717 S.
Chestnut Ave., Fresno. Tickets are $12 general admission, $8 for seniors, and $5 for
students, payable at the door. For more information, call 559-453-2267, e-mail
[email protected], or go to www.fresno.edu/pacificartist.
Thursday, February 12th and Friday, February 13th
Fresno Filmworks presents The Oscar-Nominated Short Films Festival 2015 at the
Tower Theatre. The two evenings will feature three full programs of Academy Awardnominated short movies. Thursday show time: documentary at 7 p.m. Friday show
times: live action at 5:30 p.m., and animation at 8:30 p.m. Advance tickets cost $10
general and $8 for students and seniors, with a special $15 double-feature ticket good
for any two shorts programs. Tickets can be purchased by check or cash at the Tower
Theatre box office, 815 E. Olive Ave. Go online to FresnoFilmworks.org for tickets and
details.
Friday, February 13th
The Reedley Peace Center presents speakers Steve and Laura Reed who have lived
and worked with Central Americans for 35 years. Steve is a minister and Laura is an
immigration attorney. They lived in the Mission District of San Francisco and now in
Oak Park Sacramento working on immigration and human rights issues. The event
takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 1208 L Street, Reedley, in the Fellowship Hall at
Reedley’s First Mennonite Church. For more information, call Don Friesen at (559) 6383091 or e-mail [email protected]. The event is free, open to the public, and
accessible to the handicapped.
Saturday, February 14th
The JUSTicia RUN takes place February 14, 2015 and is the first ten-point race in the
Valley Runner of the Year Series. It includes a 5K run, two-mile walk/run, and a quarter
mile kids run. The race benefits Clovis Police Foundation, Sierra Challenge Express
Running Club and the San Joaquin College of Law Student Bar Association. The race
takes place at San Joaquin College of Law, 901 5th St. in Clovis, Race Day Registration
is from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m.; the Kids Run 1/4 Mile (ages 9 & under) is at 8:00 a.m.; the 2
mile Run/Walk is at 8:15 a.m., the 5k Run is at 8:45 a.m., and Breakfast is from 8:15 10:30 a.m. The JUSTicia RUN also includes a costume contest: Run FOR the law,
where Outlaws, Robbers, Scoundrels, Gangsters, Smugglers, Pirates, Villains, etc. run
FROM the law (Constables, Sheriffs, Marshalls, Deputies, Arbitrators, Attorneys,
Counselors, Judges, Bounty Hunters, Skip Tracers, Posses, FBI, DEA, FDA,
Superheroes, and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) Wear your most creative costume. Awards
will be given for best costume. The annual Elizabeth O’Neil Memorial Children’s Book
Drive is also part of the race. Those participating in the race are asked to bring a new or
gently used children’s book to help beef-up the libraries at Pinedale and Temperance
Kutner Elementary Schools. Last year, nearly 400 books were split between Lincoln and
Jefferson Elementary Schools. Register (or get information) at http://justiciarun.com.
Early registration is $20 for adults, $10 for kids. After 2/5/15 ut’s $35 for Adults and $15
for kids.
Wednesday, February 18th
"John Muir's Continuing Inspiration" will be the topic of Harold Wood's presentation at
the general meeting of the Tehipite Chapter of the Sierra Club. Mr. Wood is a long-time
John Muir scholar and wilderness activist. Join us for this event, which is free and open
to the general public. The event takes place at 7:00 pm at the UC Center, 550 E. Shaw
Ave., Fresno, across from Fashion Fair between 1st and Fresno.
Wednesday, February 18th
As part of a series of special events Commemorating Martin Luther King, Jr., and Black
History Month, Fresno Pacific University presents "African Americans: Central Valley
Roots and Contributions," with Karla Kirk, M.A., instructor, Fresno City College. This
event is sponsored by Fresno Pacific University and takes place at 5:30 p.m. at the
African American Historical & Cultural Museum, 1857 Fulton St., Fresno. It is free and
open to the public. For more information, call 559-453-2020 or e-mail
[email protected].
Thursday, February 19th
Windsong Productions is pleased to present the eleventh installment of The Germ, a
local short film festival that encourages people of all ages and experience levels to
create movies by giving them a “germ” of an idea to use as a starting point. The
inspiration for this Germ is a piece of Parisian street art (viewable at thegerm.org). All
films must also be love stories and have a maximum run time of five minutes.
Submissions are due by 5 p.m. on Monday, February 16. The community is welcome to
attend the free screening on Thursday, February 19th at 7 p.m. at Windsong
Productions, 7676 N Palm Ave., Suite 104 in Fresno. A no-host bar and the Bravo Bites
food truck will be on-site to provide food and refreshments. For more information, visit
the germ.org.
Friday, February 20th
Cineculture presents “ Field of Amapolas (Jardin the Amapolas)” with discussant: Maja
Zimmermann (Producer). Emilio and his nine-year-old son are forced to abandon their
parcel of land overnight due to threats that they and the locals have been collaborating
with the enemy in the guerilla war that has been ravaging rural Colombia for years. A
relative helps them relocate and, despite his initial reticence, Emilio ends up working on
a poppy plantation. At the heart of the story is Luisa, with whom Emilio’s son shares the
secret companionship of a neighborhood dog. Filmed in the south of Colombia, near
Melo Guevara’s native Ipiales, this is a film about the plight of innocent civilians
displaced by war. Sitting on the fence is not an option and it is almost impossible for
them not to get mixed up in illegal activities. However, the final flashback of the children
leaves us with an inkling of hope for a better future. This film is In Spanish with English
subtitles. The screening will be at 5:30 p.m. at Fresno State’s Peters Education Center
Auditorium (west of Save-Mart Center in the Student Recreation Center Building). For
more information, go to cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Friday, February 20th
This is Interfaith Scholars Weekend with speaker: Dr. Miguel De La Torre on “Our
Immigration Dilemma.” The weekend begins Friday, February 20th at Temple Beth
Israel, 6622 N. Maroa Ave., with a 7:30 pm Opening Lecture during the Shabbat Service
on the topic, “Immigration: What does the Judeo-Christian Tradition Say?” It continues
on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Israel, followed on Sunday at
three different venues: At Community United Church of Christ, 5550 N. Fresno Street at
9:00 am (Worship Service, with a Sermon By Dr. De La Torre (“Was Jesus a Racist?”),
at Wesley United Methodist Church, 1314 E. Barstow Avenue at 10:30 am (Worship
Service, with a Sermon By Dr. De La Torre on “Was Jesus a Racist?”), and at First
Congregational Church of Fresno, 2131 N. Van Ness Blvd. from 1:00-2:15 pm
(Debriefing of the Weekend with Dr. Miguel A. De La Torre). Registration for the
weekend is $45. Register on-line at http://interfaithscholar.org/isw-2015/.
Monday, February 23rd
As part of a series of special events Commemorating Martin Luther King, Jr., and Black
History Month, Fresno Pacific University "The Black Church Experience: Struggle for
Freedom," a lecture by Allen Carden, Ph.D., professor, Fresno Pacific University,
worship by Bishop Charles Dickerson, senior pastor, Pearly Grove Baptist Church. This
event is sponsored by Fresno Pacific University and takes place at 5:30 p.m. at the
African American Historical & Cultural Museum, 1857 Fulton St., Fresno. It is free and
open to the public. For more information, call 559-453-2020 or e-mail
[email protected].
Wednesday, February 25th
Fresno Pacific University presents "Shakespeare's Songs & Sonnets." Fresno Pacific
University Men's Chorus & Women's Chorale join Woodward Shakespeare Festival
members. The event takes place at 6:30 p.m. at the Woodward Park Library, 944 E.
Perrin, Fresno. It is free and open to the public
Friday, February 27th
Cineculture presents “Josh/ Against the Grain,” with discussant Iram Parveen Bilal
(Director). Josh, inspired by true events, is the story of a privileged woman whose life is
shattered in a single moment. It is the story of a woman in search for a dangerous truth.
It is the story of the biggest challenge to Pakistan's still reigning feudalism: the country's
youth. The film explores the internal debates the young are struggling with, and how
solutions can be attainable if and when they stand united. Fatima, a committed
schoolteacher living the cosmopolitan high life in Karachi, is devastated when her
nanny, Nusrat, inexplicably disappears. Though her friends and family beg her not to
disturb the status quo and confront the powerful feudals in Nusrat’s village, Fatima
travels there to investigate. Josh is a story of hope, of trying, of redemption. It is a story
of the youth, of Pakistan, of the pain, the pleasure and the spirit of unity and
independence. Ultimately, it is about "never giving up." The screening will be at 5:30
p.m. at Fresno State’s Peters Education Center Auditorium (west of Save-Mart Center
in the Student Recreation Center Building). For more information, go to
cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Friday, February 27th and Saturday, February 28th
Fresno Pacific University presents Opera at Pacific, This event takes place at 7:30 p.m.
at Butler Church, 4884 E. Butler Ave., Fresno. Tickets are $7 general admission, or $5
for seniors & students, payable at the door. For more information, call 559-453-2267 or
e-mail [email protected].
Monday, March 2nd
The Black Popular Culture Lecture Series and Online Research Archive will welcome
Rev. Jeremiah Wright to Fresno State on March 2nd in North Gym #118! Many of you
would remember Rev. Wright when then-Presidential Candidate Barack Obama was
embroiled in controversy when his church pastor (Rev. Wright) was cited out of context.
Come hear an interview with Rev. Wright and let him define his ministry and activism in
his own words! This event is free and begins at 6 p.m. Parking is $3. For more
information contact Prof. T. Hasan Johnson at (559) 278-8805 or by e-mail to
[email protected].
Tuesday, March 3rd
Fresno/Madera Youth for Christ will celebrate its 70th anniversary and the launch of the
Life*Leadership*Legacy campaign with a major event: the YFC 70th Anniversary
Banquet at the Fresno Hotel and Conference Center (formerly the Radisson). The
keynote speaker will be Ruth Graham, daughter of Billy Graham, who was the first full
time evangelist for YFC USA. Gifts and pledges toward the Life*Leadership*Legacy
Campaign will be invited. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased on the YFC website.
Sponsors and table hosts are needed. (Plated dinner and dessert included with ticket
purchase.) All event details and info available online at yfcnow.org.
Friday, March 6th
The Reedley Peace Center presents the documentary “Praying the Devil Back to Hell,”
which chronicles social unrest in the West African Republic of Liberia, where civil war
has torn the nation apart and left hundreds of thousands dead or displaced. The film
reconstructs the way this tragedy galvanized a coalition of Christian and Muslim women
to rise up and, through nonviolent tactics, put pressure on their government to pursue
peace talks, then follows their grassroots moment as it leads to democratic elections
and Liberia's first female president. The event takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at
1208 L Street, Reedley, in the Fellowship Hall at Reedley’s First Mennonite Church. For
more information, call Don Friesen at (559) 638-3091 or e-mail [email protected].
The event is free, open to the public, and accessible to the handicapped.
Friday, March 6th
Cineculture presents “Rio 2096: A Story of Love and Fury (Uma História de Amor e
Fúria),” with discussant: Luiz Bolognesi (Director). Rio 2096 is an animated film with a
graphic novel slant revolving around the love between an immortal hero and Janaína,
the woman he has been in love with for 600 years. Luiz Bolognesi has set the story in
four phases of Brazil’s history: colonization, slavery, military regime and the future, in
2096, in the midst of wars for water. The film stars the voice talents of Selton Mello and
Camila Pitanga as the two main characters. The feature film also counts on the voice of
Rodrigo Santoro as an Indian Chief and warrior. The screening will be at 5:30 p.m. at
Fresno State’s Peters Education Center Auditorium (west of Save-Mart Center in the
Student Recreation Center Building). For more information, go to
cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Saturday, March 7th
The International Women’s Day Planning Team invite you to attend their annual
Women’s Day celebration of women in history, women of achievement today, and the
special needs and concerns of women and girls. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to
2 p.m. at the Parkwood Elementary School. There will be performances, guest
speakers, workshops, food, and displays to inspire us all! YOU can be a part of this
festive day in one or more ways. Can you see yourself doing any of these wonderful
things? 1. Bring a display and materials to promote your services for women and girls,
or your art, or your knowledge of women in history or women of achievement today.
2. Contribute or cater food, bottled water or a special cake to be served at the lunch
break. 3. Create a children’s corner where parents with small children might rest and
play awhile and still observe the main event. 4. Get in on the planning by joining one of
our sub-committees (decorations, set-up, clean-up, women’s history fashion show,
program, publicity, etc) 5. Offer an inspiring short speech or performance (song, skit,
dance, etc). 6. Donate to help our expenses. (checks made out to “Friends of Madera
County Library”) Contact any of us by January 15 if at all possible, so that we can firm
up our program for the big day! We look forward to hearing from you! If you get inspired
after January 15, please contact us! The “door” will be open for you to get involved!
To participate, or for more information, contact Delia Gregorski at 232-1557 or
[email protected], Ellen Mester at [email protected] or
232-2681, or Becky Goodwin at 916-205-8832 or [email protected].
Friday, March 13th
The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker Dolores Weller on the topic of Air quality.
The event takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 1208 L Street, Reedley, in the
Fellowship Hall at Reedley’s First Mennonite Church. For more information, call Don
Friesen at (559) 638-3091 or e-mail [email protected]. The event is free, open to
the public, and accessible to the handicapped.
Saturday, March 14th
The Fresno Folklore Society presents Nevenka Balkan Women's Choir at Cal Art
Academy Severance. For more information, call 559-307-3610.
Friday, March 20th
Cineculture presents “Oil & Water,” with discussant Hugo Lucitante. Oil & Water is the
coming of age story of two boys as they each confront one of the world's worst toxic
disasters, the prolonged contamination of the Ecuadorian Amazon by Texaco and other
oil companies. Hugo comes to America to fight for the survival of his tribe, the Cofán,
while David goes to Ecuador to launch the world's first company to certify oil as "fair
trade." Can Hugo become the leader his tribe so desperately wants him to be? Will
David clean up one of the world's dirtiest industries? This film is an intimate portrait of
two young people finding their voices and trying to beat incredible odds. Their journeys
lead them to explore what could be a more just future, not just for the people of the
Amazon, but for all people around the world born with oil beneath their feet. Eight years
in the making Oil & Water is a shocking and inspiring David and Goliath story. The
screening will be at 5:30 p.m. at Fresno State’s Peters Education Center Auditorium
(west of Save-Mart Center in the Student Recreation Center Building). For more
information, go to cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Friday, March 20th and Saturday, March 21st
The Reedley Peace Center will hold its 12th annual retreat. More information to follow.
Saturday, March 21st
The Fresno Folklore Society presents Acoustic Stories with Bill Amatneek at Mia Cuppa
Café, starting at 6 p.m. Years of performing behind artists like Bill Monroe, Peter
Rowan, David Grisman, and Jerry Garcia would probably give anyone a lot of stories to
share. He walks the streets of Paris hunting for a source of tortoise shell flatpicks with
Tony Rice, Darol Anger, David Grisman, and Bill Keith…the Bill Keith Bicentennial
Bluegrass Band. And he collaborates with Kate Wolf. He tells of David Grisman trying
to introduce Jerry Garcia to Stephane Grapelli as the legendary violinist attempts to
mask he has no idea who Jerry or the Grateful Dead are. There’s Bill Monroe, showing
up behind the Peter Rowan Band onstage at the 1995 Wintergrass Festival, he and
Peter engaging in a playful shoving match ending with Big Mon sending Peter flying with
an elbow shot to the ribs. Or stories of the New Riders of The Purple Sage; Peter, Paul
and Mary and Bob Dylan. Tickets are $8 in advance or for FFS members, or $12 at the
door. Advance tickets can be purchased at National Hardware, Patrick's Music and
fresnofolkconcerts.com. Mia Cuppa Café is located at 620 Olive Ave in Fresno's Tower
District. For more information, call 559-307-3610.
Friday, March 27th
The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker Cindy Hoopes. The event takes place
from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 1208 L Street, Reedley, in the Fellowship Hall at Reedley’s
First Mennonite Church. For more information, call Don Friesen at (559) 638-3091 or email [email protected]. The event is free, open to the public, and accessible to the
handicapped.
Friday, April 17th
Cinculture presents “The Hunting Ground” with discussant Kirby Dick (Director). From
the team behind THE INVISIBLE WAR, comes a startling exposé of rape crimes on U.S.
campuses, institutional cover-ups and the brutal social toll on victims and their families.
Weaving together verité footage and first-person testimonies, the film follows survivors
as they pursue their education while fighting for justice — despite harsh retaliation,
harassment and pushback at every level. 90 minutes. The screening will be at 5:30
p.m. at Fresno State’s Peters Education Center Auditorium (west of Save-Mart Center
in the Student Recreation Center Building). For more information, go to
cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Friday, May 1st
Cineculture presents “The Golden Dream (La jaula de oro)” with discussant: to be
announced. Juan, Sara and Samuel, all 15 years old, flee from Guatemala towards the
USA. On their journey through Mexico they meet Chauk, a Tzotzil Indian who does not
speak Spanish and has no official documents. They all believe they will find a better
world beyond the USA-Mexico border but they run into a harsh reality. The film is in
Spanish and Tzotzil with English subtitles. The screening will be at 5:30 p.m. at Fresno
State’s Peters Education Center Auditorium (west of Save-Mart Center in the Student
Recreation Center Building). For more information, go to cineculture.csufresno.edu.
Saturday, May 9th
When country a cappella band Home Free was crowned Season 4 Champions of NBC's
The Sing-Off this past December, their victory was by no means the beginnings of a
career for the five country stars from Minnesota… rather it was a satisfying culmination
of nearly a decade of hard work and commitment to a vocal craft growing in popularity.
Home Free will take the stage at the Tower Theatre in Fresno on Saturday, May 9th.
Tickets, including the VIP option, will go on sale Wednesday, December 17th at 10am
and will be available at TowerTheatreFresno.com or by phone at 559-485-9050. VIP
tickets include Best seats in the house, Pre-show Meet and Greet and Q&A with the
band inside the theatre (90 minutes prior to the show), Exclusive Spring 2015 Tour VIP
Laminate, Limited-Edition Show Hatch Print, A photo with the band, and Crowd-free
merchandise shopping. The Tower Theatre is located at 815 East Olive Avenue,
Fresno, and this all ages show begins at 8:00 p.m. Advance tickets are $30 and VIP
tickets are $100. For more information, call 559-485-9050.
Thursday, May 14th
n My Life - A Musical Theatre Tribute to The Beatles is the award-winning musical
biography of the Beatles through the eyes of manager Brian Epstein. Featuring live
music from renowned tribute band Abbey Road, the show is widely considered by
industry insiders to be the most unique Beatles show in decades. The multi-media
musical plays Thursday, May 14 at 8 pm at the Tower Theatre. Tickets are $29/$39 and
may be purchased online at www.towertheatrefresno.com, by phone at (559) 485-9050
by email at [email protected] by dropping by the theatre box office. Tower
Theatre for the Performing Arts is located at 815 East Olive Avenue in Fresno. The
show is appropriate for all ages.
MULTIPLE DAY EVENTS:
Throughout 2015
Due to the overwhelming success of their 2013 and 2014 Film Series’, Warnors is proud
to announce the continuation of their Classic Film program for 2015. All of the 2015
Classic Films will be shown on the Warnors Theatre BIG screen on the 3rd Thursday of
every month. Doors open at 6:00pm followed by the film at 7:00pm. The Classic Film
Series is most people only opportunity to take a step back in time, and see classic films
on the BIG screen in an authentic 1928 Movie Palace. These films allow for everyone
to get involved; whether it is by attending the film, dressing up in a costume that goes
with the theme of the film, volunteering, or through sponsorship. If you would like more
information on getting involved or reporting on the story, please contact Michelle Swift
through email at [email protected] or contact the office at (559)264-2848. Thanks
to their sponsors, Warnors is able to provide FREE tickets for their Classic Films to
school districts, and various youth organizations; such as the Boys and Girls Club. This
allows for the youth to be able to attend the film, to learn about the history of film, and
be able to experience the different social norms of the film’s period in history. If you
know a group of students that would benefit from attending Classic Films at Warnors, or
you are interested in being a sponsor, contact Michelle Swift for more information. The
doors to the theatre will open at 6:00pm with a pipe organ concert from Dick
Cencibaugh. To add to the festivities, if participants dress in an outfit that goes with the
theme or characters in the film they can receive free admission to the film. This is a
great way for everyone to get involved and make it a fun experience. Folks may
purchase tickets at the Warnors Box Office or at the door the evening of the film, when
the doors open at 6:00pm. Tickets are $5 for individuals, and children under 12 are
FREE! If you would like further information or to see the movie schedule for 2015 please
visit their website at www.warnors.org or call the office at (559)264-2848.
Friday, January 2nd through Sunday, February 22nd
Good Company Players’ the regional premiere of “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and
Spike” at the 2nd Space Theatre . Middle-aged siblings Vanya and Sonia share a lovely
farmhouse in Pennsylvania where they spend their days bickering and complaining.
When Masha, their movie-star sister, dashes in for a visit with her boy-toy, Spike, old
resentments immediately flare. Throw in a sassy, clairvoyant maid and an aspiring
actress, pretty enough to trouble an aging diva, and you have a recipe for riotous and
dysfunctional fun! “Everyone has a monologue that is nothing short of hilarious…
You’ve only spent a weekend with these people, but you might want to spend a lifetime
with Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.” - HuffingtonPost.com. Performances are
Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Friday & Saturday at 8:00 p.m., & Sunday matinee at 2:00 p.m.
Tickets are $18 general admission and $15 for students & seniors. Groups of 16 or
more are eligible for discounts. For information and reservations, call Dave at (559) 2669493, or go to www.2ndspacetheatre.com or www.gcplayers.com.
Monday, January 12th through Monday, March 30th
The Fresno Center for Nonviolence will be showing the series from Oliver Stone “The
Untold History of the United States ” with subsequent episodes to be shown each
Monday following until March 30th. Oliver Stone and Peter Kuznick have done what
many would consider impossible. They have written a political history of the United
States in the 20th Century that tells us exactly how the United States became an empire
through conscious decisions, and how the struggle to maintain that empire will go on
despite which political party holds office. It is a brilliant survey of the untold story. This
event will take place at 7 p.m. at 1584 N. Van Ness (SE corner of McKinley and Van
Ness). The notion of American exceptionalism still warps Americans’ understanding of
their nation’s role in the world. Most are loathe admitting that the United States has any
imperial pretensions. But history tells a different story as filmmaker Oliver Stone and
historian Peter Kuznick reveal in this riveting account of the rise and decline of the
American empire. Aided by the latest archival findings and recently declassified
documents and building on the research of the world’s best scholars, Stone and
Kuznick construct an often shocking but meticulously documented “people’s history” of
the American empire that offers startling context to the Bush-Cheney policies that put us
at war in two Muslim countries and show us why the Obama administration has had
such a difficult time cleaving a new path. Their conclusions will astonish even experts,
but there is one question only listeners can answer: Is it too late for America to
change?
Thursday, January 15th through Sunday, March 15th
Good Company Players’ toe-tingling production of “Crazy For You” is up next at Roger
Rocka’s Dinner Theater, opening January 15th This Gershwin extravaganza, filled with
song, dance, and waves of laughter will tap its way into theatre lovers’ hearts. In this
salute to 1930’s movie musicals, a stage-struck financier named Bobby travels to
Deadrock, Nevada to foreclose on a run-down theater. He winds up falling in love with
Polly, the daughter of the theater owner. When Bobby gets the brilliant idea to put on a
show to save the theater, nobody trusts him so he disguises himself as famous
producer, Bela Zangler. Everything goes swimmingly until the real Bela Zangler shows
up in Deadrock in pursuit of his dance director who has abandoned New York to help
Bobby. Matters are further complicated by a jilted socialite, a jealous saloon owner, and
Eugene and Patricia Fodor, who are writing a review of Deadrock’s tourist appeal.
Mosey back to a simpler time and let the timeless music of Gershwin wash over you
with standards including “I Got Rhythm,” “Someone To Watch Over Me,” “Naughty
Baby,” and “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.” Performances are Thursdays
through Sundays, with two shows most Sundays. On Thursdays a buffet is served
beginning at 5:30 p.m., with a Pre-Show featuring Good Company Players’ Junior
Company at 7:00 and the performance at 7:30 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays dinner is
served beginning at 5:30 p.m., with the Pre-Show at 7:30 p.m. and the performance at
8:00 p.m. For the Sunday matinee, a brunch buffet is served beginning at 11 a.m., with
the Pre-Show at 1 p.m. and the performance at 1:30 p.m. Sunday evenings, a buffet is
served beginning at 5:00 p.m., with the Pre-Show at 7:00 p.m. and the performance at
7:30 p.m. The cost for the Thursday and Sunday Buffet & Show is $50 per person
(Show Only - $30.00). The cost for the Friday and Saturday Served Meal & Show is
$55.00; Show Plus (includes the show, 1 dessert, 1 drink, tax and tip) is also available.
Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater,\ is located at 1226 N. Wishon, at Olive and Wishon in
The Tower District. For tickets or more information, call 559-266-9494/800-371-4747 or
reserve online at rogerrockas.com.
Friday, January 16th through Friday, April 3rd
Fresno Center for Nonviolence presents the a screening of the multi part series of Oliver
Stone’s “Untold History of the United States”. The series will every Friday through April
3rd. The notion of American exceptionalism still warps Americans’ understanding of
their nation’s role in the world. Most are loathe admitting that the United States has any
imperial pretensions. But history tells a different story as filmmaker Oliver Stone and
historian Peter Kuznick reveal in this riveting account of the rise and decline of the
American empire. Aided by the latest archival findings and recently declassified
documents and building on the research of the world’s best scholars, Stone and
Kuznick construct an often shocking but meticulously documented “people’s history” of
the American empire that offers startling context to the Bush-Cheney policies that put us
at war in two Muslim countries and show us why the Obama administration has had
such a difficult time cleaving a new path. Their conclusions will astonish even experts,
but there is one question only listeners can answer: Is it too late for America to
change? The film will screen at 1 p.m. at the Fresno Center for Nonviolence 1584 N.
Van Ness (SE corner Van Ness and McKinley),
Sunday, January 18th through Sunday, May 31st
The Fresno County Public Library (FCPL) is offering STeP (Skills for Teen Parenting)
Workshops alternate Sundays from January 18th through May 31st, from 1:00–3:00 pm
at the Politi Branch Library, 5771 N First Street (SW corner of First Street and Bullard
Avenue). This series of ten life skills workshops for pregnant and parenting teen
mothers on alternate Sunday afternoons at the Politi Branch Library includes free
childcare provided in the Library, which will open from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm on Sundays
for these classes. These workshops will help new and future teen mothers acquire the
necessary knowledge, skills and tools to succeed as adults and parents. A variety of
specialists in the community will present information on topics including practicing good
nutrition, managing money, exploring housing options, continuing and/or finishing
school, developing pre-employment skills and creating resumes, finding resources for
quality child care, taking care of their health, developing good parenting skills and
building healthy family relationships. FCPL hopes teens will attend the entire ten
workshop series. Registration is required; call 431-6450 to sign up. Healthy snacks for
both teens and their children will be provided.
Friday, March 13th 2015 to Saturday March 21st 2015
Winner of the 2012 Pulitzer Prize. “Somewhere in Philadelphia” will be performed at the
Fresno State Woods Theatre Speech Arts Building, Elliot has returned from Iraq and is
struggling to find his place in the world. Somewhere in a chat room, recovering addicts
keep each other alive, hour by hour, day by day. The boundaries of family and
community are stretched across continents and cyberspace as birth families splinter
and online families collide. WATER BY THE SPOONFUL is a heartfelt meditation on
lives on the brink of redemption. Performances are every day except Monday, and all
performances are at 8 p.m. except the Sunday performance which is at 2 p.m. Tickets
for adults are $17, for Fresno State Faculty/Staff, Seniors, Alumni & Military, $15, and
for all students, $10. For tickets or information, call 559.278.2216 or e-mail
[email protected].
Friday, May 1st through Saturday, May 9th
Fresno State’s University Theatre presents “The Playboy of the Western World,” a
classic Irish comedy from 1907 by John Millington Synge. In the remote west coast of
Ireland, a stranger, Christy Mahon, stumbles into Flaherty’s tavern claiming to be on the
run after killing his brute of a father. Rather than condemn his actions, the locals are
fascinated by his scandalous boldness, and soon, Christy is enjoying celebrity notoriety
in the town—and also enjoying the romantic attention of two local women, Pegeen and
the Widow Quinn, who vie for him. However, when Christy’s father shows up, comic
complications ensue. As a satire on the romanticizing of outlaws, this classic play still
resonates with contemporary culture. The play will be performed every day except
Monday, and all performances are at 8 p.m. except on Sunday when it’s at 2 p.m.
Ticket prices are $17 for adults, $15 for Fresno State Faculty/Staff, Seniors, Alumni &
Military, and $10 for all students. For more information call 559.278.2216 or e-mail
[email protected].
ONGOING
Every Day
Occupy Fresno is at Fresno’s Courthouse Park (on the south end, off Tulare between
Van Ness and M Street). They hold a General Assembly every day at 6 p.m. and there
have been arrests every day, shortly after midnight. For more information, go to
http://occupyfresnoca.com/
Every Tuesday
Starting 8/27/13, the Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno will be holding classes on the
Quran focusing on pronunciation and memorization. The classes are free (donations
appreciated) and start at 7 p.m. If interested please contact Rebecca by e-mail to
[email protected]. No registration is needed.
Every Tuesday through Thursday
The Fresno County Department of Public Health offers free confidential rapid HIV
testing at the Fresno County Department of Public Health building at 1221 Fulton Mall,
Specialty Clinic Area, First Floor, from 8:30 am – 11:00 am and 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm
For more information, contact Jena Adams, Supervising Communicable Disease
Specialist, at (559) 600-3434.
Every Wednesday through the 2014 school year
New Horizons Music provides adults a fun entry or reentry into music making! Whether
you were in school band or orchestra, would like to learn a new instrument, or have only
dreamed of playing, New Horizons offers a welcoming environment that offers you the
chance to participate and progress at your own rate. Rehearsals are going on each
Wednesday starting at 5:30 p.m. for string instruments and 6:30 p.m. for band
instruments. Groups perform at least two concerts each school year. All meetings are at
the Bullard High School Band Room, 5445 N. Palm, Fresno. For more information,
contact Craig Erker at [email protected] or Archie Rader at 559-273-8309.
Every Wednesday and Friday
Patricia Wells Solorzano and Agustin Lira, founders of El Teatro Campesino), have
formed a theatrical group with Fresno youth that will raise awareness of the problems
negatively affecting the health of boys and young men of color, such as drugs, gangs,
obesity, teen pregnancy, high numbers of youth incarcerated or expelled from schools,
unemployment and poverty. The Theater for Boys and young Men of Color will be
composed of youth ages 16-28 who will be trained in acting to the extent that they will
be capable of performing before general audiences. The participants will be engaged in
the creation of skits, one-act plays and in the development of a one and a half hour
theatrical production with music to be performed toward the end of this year long
project. Along with theater, musical presentations will also take place performed by the
participants who will also receive musical training. This project will be taking place at
The Cecil C. Hinton Community Center, 2385 South Fairview Ave., 93706, on
Wednesdays and Fridays at 5:30-8:30 p.m. For more information, contact Gwen Morris
at (559) 412-7118.
Every Saturday
There is a medical clinic for the homeless, actively injecting drug users and prostitutes
every Saturday from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. or until the last patient is served. You can find
them near Hughes and Olive Ave. The clinic is staffed by Dr. Marc Lasher and
volunteers. Financial donations are accepted. For more information, call 266-0444.
Every Saturday
Food Not Bombs feeds the hungry from 1 - 2 p.m. near the Olive Ave entrance to
Roeding Park. If you would like to help them prepare the meal, they meet every
Saturday at Wesley United Methodist Church (1343 E. Barstow) at 10am. For more
information email [email protected] or visit the official FNB website,
foodnotbombs.net.
Most Saturdays
Most Saturdays there is a Fresno Free Bicycle Repair Clinic from 1- 3 p.m. near the
Olive Ave entrance to Roeding Park, beside Food Not Bombs. Donations of bicycle
parts, inner tubes, and blinky lights are welcome. Volunteers are needed to help with
minor repairs. For more info and to arrange donations, e-mail: [email protected].
1st Saturday of each month:
The South Valley Peace Center holds a demonstration for peace at Mooney and Walnut
in Visalia, from 1-2 p.m. For more information visit southvalleypeacecenter.org.
2nd Saturday of each month:
Divorce Options Workshops are offered on the second Saturday of every month by
Central Valley Collaborative Law Affiliates. This program provides information about the
divorce process and the options available to anyone considering divorce. Each
workshop is presented by an interdisciplinary team of legal, financial and mental health
professionals on the second Saturday of each month at the Fresno Ramada Inn, 324
East Shaw Avenue, Fresno, California from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It is offered at NO
CHARGE to attendees as a public service of Central Valley Collaborative Law Affiliates.
Pre-registration is recommended due to limited seating. Further information and preregistration may be obtained at divorcefresno.eventbrite.com, or contact John McDaniel
at (559) 226-4420.
Every Sunday
Food Not Bombs serves free food at Courthouse Park to anyone who is hungry. They
start cooking at 1 PM and serve the food at 3 PM (meet at the Tulare side of the park).
For more information go to http://cafefresno.org.
First Wednesday of each month:
A Women in Black Silent Vigil takes place from noon to 1 p.m. at the Fresno County
Courthouse, 1100 Van Ness Ave. Show your support for peace and negotiated
settlements of current U.S. military actions. Stand silently and advocate for peace. For
more information, call 559-278-7140 or 559-225-2850. This vigil takes place the 1st
Wednesday of each month.
The “Goodie Bag Project” is collecting small toiletry items brought home from hotels
and vacations to provide gifts for women incarcerated in Central Valley Women’s
Prisons. This is a collaborative effort of the CCWF Inmate Family Council, the Fresno
Center for Nonviolence, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Fresno Social Justice
Committee, and the United Methodist Church of Merced. They are seeking
sample/travel size bath gels, body soap, lotions, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner,
toothpaste, toothbrushes, small combs and pocket sized packages of tissues (no food,
candy, edibles, drinkables, mouthwash or anything containing alcohol). They are also
collecting all kinds of greeting cards, wooden pencils and clear, colorless pens, as well
as paper scratch pads and picture postcards. Items may be dropped off at the Center
for Nonviolence, 1584 N. Van Ness Ave., south of McKinley, during open hours, M - F,
11 AM - 3 PM. Checks can be made out to "FCNV Prison Ministry - Goodie Bags," and
mailed to the Center at the above address, or dropped off in person. Receipts will be
given. All donations are tax-deductible. For additional information or to see if an item is
allowable under prison rules, call Maria Telesco at 559-255-9492. Please remember all
items must be SMALL.
Volunteers Needed: Collective for Arts, Freedom, and Ecology (CAFE) Fresno, whose
mission is to provide a safe space for all people and provide programs and events that
provide enrichment and information to Fresno and the Central Valley, is looking for
volunteers, especially for Food Not Bombs, an organization that provides a nutritious
meal to anybody that would like and need one. Food Not Bombs is in dire need of
physical and financial help, and will accept anything that might go to waste that is still
useful. This includes but is not limited to: clothing, toys, tools, and furniture. All of these
items will be redistributed to others that need them. Food Not Bombs meets on Sundays
at CAFE Infoshop (935 F. Street in Fresno) at noon sharp, to chop and cook until 3. At 3
p.m., they serve at the courthouse park. For more information call Vanessa at (559)
485-3937 or e-mail [email protected].
Host an International High School Exchange Student
High school students from around the world come to the US to spend a year or a
semester in American schools. Your family can learn about Germany, China, Finland,
Italy, or another country by hosting a student. International Experience is a non-profit
that helps you connect with an exchange student hoping to study abroad and invites
you to share your home with a student who will become a part of your family. Students
in the International Experience program must meet strict guidelines and complete
multiple screenings in their home countries. During their stay they are covered by their
own health insurance and provide their own spending money. These students want to
come to the US to practice English and learn about our culture. As a host family, you
simply provide a bed, family meals and invite your student to participate in your family’s
traditions and introduce them to our American culture. To learn more about the opening
your heart and home to an exchange student contact International Experience at 888266-29 21. or visit ie-usa.com.
Every Thursday:
On Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. guitarist and singer/songwriter Steve Ono is hosting the
Smugglers Open Mic Night. The Smuggler's lounge is like a large living room with a
small PA set up in the corner. Listening will be encouraged. Musicians, singers and
spoken word are all welcome. The content must be family friendly. Each guest artist will
be playing 2 to 3 songs depending on the number of participants. Minors are allowed
when accompanied by a responsible adult. Steve will play back up guitar or read sheet
music (lead sheets preferred) for the artists on request. Steve Ono has been playing
and teaching guitar in the Fresno/Clovis area for more than 35 years with hundreds of
former students. The Smuggler's at the Park Inn is a full service restaurant with a full
bar. There is a two drink minimum. Dinner is available. The restaurant is located at 3787
North Blackstone Avenue in Fresno. For information, call (559) 230-8450
Ongoing:
The AMVETS Call of Duty Endowment Career Centers provide FREE career training
and employment assistance to veterans, active duty service members, National Guard,
and Reserve members and spouses. For additional information please call 877-7268387, once again that is 877-726-8387.
Fresno County Public Library is recruiting skilled volunteers to assist teens and
parents fill out applications for college and financial aid. When schools are closed,
rural students throughout the county often find it difficult to access materials and
computers that can help with this milestone in a student’s life. The Fresno County Public
Library not only provides a safe and welcoming environment for these students and
families, but also has the needed technology and print materials to help them navigate
the college and career path. Those with Spanish language skills are encouraged to
apply. By becoming a College Prep Coach, volunteers will dedicate a few hours each
week to help families unfamiliar with the task of completing important applications. "All
students must have direct access to materials and technology to succeed in life,” says
County Librarian Laurel Prysiazny. “By staffing several rural branches with trained
volunteers, the Library’s College Prep Program will assist students and families with
laying the groundwork for making college a reality.” If you would like to help a teen go
to college visit http://www.fresnolibrary.org and click on the volunteer banner, or call
Elizabeth Finkle at (559) 600-9230.