Out and About in Martinez: Rankin Ribbon Cutting, New Art, Bocce Bonanza, Hunger Games

Time to mark your calendars, there's a lot going on this month so we'll give you a heads up on upcoming events.Tonight, May 31 at 6:00 pm is the Ribbon Cutting for Rankin Park. This $4 Million Dollar renovation is the latest Measure H project to be completed. If you haven't seen the park yet, please join us. Meet behind the Rankin Aquatic Center.

Friday, June 1 there are two art events in town: From 6:00 to 10:00 pm Citrus Salon is the host for Geometry - Artwork by Shannon Reinhardt - the evening includes art, wine, and music.

I've Been Framed is hosting a reception from 7:00 to 9:00 pm for Debra Dodson's "Free to Be", this show centers around the celebrated pride of the LGBT community. Explore the art of those living an alternative lifestyle in today's ever-evolving diverse society. The exhibit will run through July 4.

Saturday, June 2, bocce fans can head out to the bocce courts for Hagin's Bocce Bonanza.

Monday, June 4, the Martinez Library Hunger Games Capitol Show begins at 3:30 pm. Calling all Tributes ages 10 and up to participate in the Hunger Games Capitol Show. Represent your district and demonstrate your survival skill. Win prizes and help fight hunger in the real world, all Tributes are required to  bring one canned food item as tesserae. Registration is recommended, call: 925.646.9900.

Tuesday, June 5 is Election Day.

On Saturday, June 9 there are three events: you can "Dine With a Diva", this popular event is being held at the Gerlack home, 6:00 pm. Enjoy dinner, dessert, and music featuring Soprano Chelsea Hollow for $20.00 pp, and a bottle of your favorite wine. For reservations: 925.372.6657; www.mtzo.com, or mtzopera@gmail.com.

For art lovers Black, White, and a Splash of Color is featuring Martinez artists Lorena Castillo, Sally Ann Rodriguez, and Carol Rose Adams from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at Colorz Hair Gallery, 1815 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek - 925.933.2888.

The National Park Service Summer Campfire Program will be held at the John Muir National Historic Site beginning at 7:00 pm. Rangers will lead the group in songs, skits, and stories to celebrate the legacy of John Muir. Meet at the front gate. Bring the whole family, picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and a desire to have a good time around the campfire. Heavy rain will cancel the event. For additional information: 925.228.8860.

Beginning June 9 through August 18 the Martinez Summer Reading Programs will have reading records available in community libraries and online at www.ccclib.org; pick one up and earn prizes for reading and writing short reviews. The Summer Reading Festival is for all ages.

Tuesday, June 12 gives you two events to choose from: at 6:45 the Martinez Library Book Club is featuring "The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green" by Joshua Braff.

At 7:30 pm, the Martinez Community Chorus Spring Concert, "Dance Party" is being held at the Adult Education Center. Suggested donation: $5.00.

June 16 - 17 is the King of the County BBQ at Waterfront Park, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. What a great way to spend Father's Day Weekend.

On the Entertainment Scene...Armando's: tonight, Thursday, May 31 from 8:00 to 10:00 pm, Jack Convery & Friends for New Orleans Dixieland and Swing - $10.00, doors open at 7:30 pm. On Friday, June 1, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm, Happy Hour and a Half, the music of Sin Silver, FREE. Later from 8:00 to 11:00 pm Lucas Ohio and his Band with Adrienne Shamszad, Folk Rock with Blues - $10.00, doors open at 7:30 pm. Saturday, June 2 from 8:00 to 11:00 pm, Ray Obiedo & the Urban Latin Jazz Project, Latin Jazz & Funk - $15.00, doors open at 7:30 pm.

Fridays on the Main begins June 1 through August 31, 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Cool cars, live music, and lots of fun! June 1 features the musical talents of GarageLand Rodeo and Friends; June 8 - Kyle Jester Blues Band; June 15 - the Hopeful Romantics; June 22 - Taboo Gurus; and June 29 - Tone Pony. Mark your calendars now!

See you around Martinez...