Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Independence Through Grace, a local nonprofit, empowers community members with disabilities by offering programs in entrepreneurship, cooking, and dance (which build self-reliance) every day in Bakersfield. 23ABC News
- ➤ After a two-year closure, Alta Sierra Ski Resort will reopen this weekend — Feb. 21 and 22 — with 18 inches of fresh snow. The resort will operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with its ticket office opening at 8 a.m. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Orlie's Shoe Drive Gala returns on March 20 at Luigi's Event Center with live country music and auctions as Bakersfield hosts its 2nd annual benefit aiming to exceed last year’s fundraising while providing over 10,000 shoes to local children. 23ABC News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson died Tuesday at his Chicago home, leaving behind a legacy felt in Kern County during his visits to McFarland to support farm workers and families battling cancer. 23ABC News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Local and state agriculture officials thanked USDA export grants that helped farmers export their produce — one official hoped additional support would further boost the area’s agriculture. The Bakersfield Californian
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Diesel fuel in well water led the Kern County Sheriff's Office to turn off showers at Lerdo jail on Tuesday. Officials had cautioned inmates a week earlier and are monitoring water safety concerns. The Bakersfield Californian
- ➤ Since last weekend, Caltrans crews have been staging plows, water pumps and sandbags plus clearing drains in Bakersfield and nearby mountain routes to prepare for possible icy conditions and flooding; drivers are urged to slow down and check road conditions before traveling. Bakersfield Now
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Yannis Pappas Comedy Show
9:30-10:30 p.m. — The Well Comedy Club — General admission available — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian and podcaster Yannis Pappas.
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Yannis Pappas Comedy Show
5:30-10:30 p.m. — The Well Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with renowned comedian Yannis Pappas, known for his relatable humor and engaging storytelling.
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Baseball Game: CSUB vs. Saint Mary's
6:30-8 p.m. — Hardt Field — Tickets start at $11.20 — Come out and enjoy an exciting college baseball matchup under the lights.
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2026 CIF State Wrestling Championships: Session I
9 AM – 12 PM — Mechanics Bank Arena — All Session Pass for parking — Witness the thrilling first session of the CIF State Wrestling Championships.
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CIF State Wrestling Championships - Session II
9 AM – 12 PM — Mechanics Bank Arena — All Session Parking Pass available — Watch the best high school wrestlers compete for glory in the CIF State Championships.
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CIF State Wrestling Championships - Session IV
9 AM - 12 PM — Mechanics Bank Arena — Admission required — Witness the thrilling competition as top wrestlers vie for state titles.
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Tortilla Making Workshop for Beginners
8-10 p.m. — 3601 Eton St, Bakersfield, CA — Free entry — Learn to make homemade tortillas from scratch with no fear or doubts.
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12th Annual Honor Run
8-10 a.m. — Hart Memorial Park — $10-$50 — Participate in a charitable run supporting the families of fallen deputies with fun for all ages.
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32nd Annual Christian Youth Film Festival
2-10:30 p.m. — The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater — Various costs available — Celebrate young filmmakers showcasing inspiring short films filled with faith, hope, and love.
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College Baseball Game: CSU Bakersfield vs. Westcliff
11 AM – 1 PM — Hardt Field — Watch live sports — Catch the action as CSU Bakersfield takes on Westcliff in this college baseball matchup.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The first step toward success is taken when you refuse to be a captive of the environment in which you first find yourself.
~ Mark Caine
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