Good morning, Bakersfield.

Residents in Bakersfield reflect on the lasting impact of Sept.

11 as the police and fire departments plan ceremonies Friday for the 25th anniversary; a formal ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m. at Station 15 & an evening event at 7:30 p.m. will offer parking and shuttles at Riverwalk Park.

CHP Bakersfield hosted a Coffee with a Cop event on Tuesday where locals met officers over coffee and kids enjoyed stickers and photos with motorcycles.

Community members asked traffic law questions and built personal connections (raising interest in future law enforcement careers).

Nearly $7 million in funding will boost three aerospace and defense projects in eastern Kern, with construction beginning soon.

The grant — which supports upgrades to Mojave Air and Space Port, establishes an innovation hub at Cal State Bakersfield and improves an engineering workshop — will create hundreds of jobs.

Taft Union High School District confirmed there is no credible threat tied to the 'Cat in the Hat' social media trend and classes continue as scheduled, with increased security now on campus (law enforcement is closely involved).

Industry, government, and academic leaders gathered Tuesday afternoon at Cal State Bakersfield to celebrate a $6.8 million state grant supporting a series of aerospace + defense initiatives.

Traps in five Kern County locations caught a citrus pest that could devastate local crops (a state official confirmed Tuesday).

Regulators are now monitoring the situation to protect the area's citrus industry.

Tim Sheehan’s report reveals that drive-thru restaurants are adding to the Valley’s air pollution as thousands of cars line up at burger, taco, and coffee spots today, complementing highway traffic emissions (data shows these quick-serve locations may be significant contributors).

Kern County emergency officials urge residents to prepare for severe winter weather by assembling emergency kits — clearing drainage areas and ensuring vehicles are in good working order.

They warn that a strong El Niño could bring more frequent storms, so locals should review evacuation plans and safeguard vital documents.

Kern County Fire Department Capt. Matt Strange addressed firefighter mental health during Suicide Awareness Month, noting that repeated trauma makes it hard for firefighters to leave work stress at home.

With 26 years on the job, he urged colleagues to seek help when needed.