Good morning, Bakersfield.

A groundbreaking event held today at St. Vincent de Paul in east Bakersfield will bring improvements to its long-running programs aiding vulnerable residents, marking a milestone in its seven-decade history of community support.

Today, a Bakersfield family honored Rabbi Eli Schlanger at the Chabad synagogue following his death in last month’s Bondi Beach attack—his brother Shmuli and wife Esther led the memorial service.

El Toro Loco SuperMarkets purchased Gateway Plaza on Union Avenue and will renovate the neglected site into a community destination anchored by a grocery store (set to open within 6 to 8 months) that council members say will boost local access to affordable groceries.

City officials announced a plan to upgrade H Street by adding new street lighting, wider roads, and bike lanes to reduce accidents, while some local business owners worry that year-long construction could hurt their visibility & revenue.

The project is still in the planning phase.

Kern County's unemployment fell to 7.8% in November, yet remains higher than California's 5.4% and the national 4.3% rate, according to new data — marking a modest drop from last year's rate.

Bakersfield College welcomes students back as Spring 2026 classes start soon.

Weekend courses begin Saturday, Jan. 17 and weekday classes start Tuesday, Jan. 20, with campus events featuring welcome tents (with free coffee and donuts) and Renegade Rally to help students connect.

Parents in Bakersfield petition the local school district to install cameras in special education classrooms to document incidents and improve staff communication; the measure, already used by other districts, is meant to enhance accountability and care for non-verbal students (committee chairs have cited past concerns).

Brenda Lewis from Bakersfield was reappointed to the State Board of Education after serving since 2022 + her reappointment now awaits Senate confirmation and includes a $100 per diem compensation.

Kern County officials are finalizing a review on California’s largest solar project — scheduled to be voted on next month by the Planning Commission — before final Board consideration in western Kern.

County officials have opened a 30-day public comment period on reports about mental health services today, asking for feedback from local residents.

Comedy Night with David Koechner

6:30-10:00 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — $35 General Admission ($50 Preferred Seating) — Enjoy a night filled with laughs from actor and comedian David Koechner.

A Time to Laugh

7-9 p.m. — Doré Theatre — Cost Info Unavailable — Experience the healing power of laughter with clean comedy from Marcus D. Wiley.

ADAKC Annual Cinnamon Roll Drive

6-11 AM — KGET — $20 — Support a good cause while enjoying delicious Hodel's cinnamon rolls.

Colorado Eagles vs. Bakersfield Condors

7-9 p.m. — Mechanics Bank Arena — Adult Jersey Giveaway — Catch an exciting AHL matchup featuring local hockey talent.

Catbox, Do You Compute, Jump From The Bluffs Concert

7-10 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — Tickets from $13.83 — Enjoy a night of live music featuring three exciting acts.

Private Eyes: A Tribute to Hall & Oates

7-9 PM — Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an authentic tribute to the iconic sounds of Daryl Hall & John Oates.

Ontario Reign at Bakersfield Condors

7-9 p.m. — Mechanics Bank Arena — $3 Beers Night — Enjoy affordable brews while cheering on the Condors in this exciting hockey matchup.

La Lomita Wine Dinner

6-9 p.m. — The Padre Hotel — $120 per person — Experience a curated four-course dinner with exquisite wine pairings from La Lomita.

San Diego Gulls vs. Bakersfield Condors

7-9 p.m. — Mechanics Bank Arena — $3 Beers — Enjoy a spirited hockey matchup on Country Night with drink specials.