Good morning, Bakersfield.

Nearly one in four married Californians remain together because divorce costs are too high, a Bakersfield legal document assistant said.

A study from Henderson and Henderson Attorneys estimates 3.4 million face fees (including $8,500 retainers) that make obtaining legal separation very expensive.

Bakersfield Firefighters Burn Foundation will hold its 5th annual Lite Up the Nite fundraiser Friday, May 8 to raise funds for sending burn survivors to the World Burn Conference in Washington, DC.

The event comes as the Grossman Burns Center is set to close at the end of June.

The Wells Fargo branch in Lake Isabella will close on May 6, so customers needing in-person help—especially older residents—will face longer trips or use an ATM.

Wells Fargo said it will operate the ATM after the branch stops service.

Cartel violence in Mexico is disrupting travel for Central Valley families today, with Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria urging residents to follow official travel advisories amid blocked roads and delayed flights.

The Kern County Library offers free online tutoring for students from kindergarten to college.

The service is available now for anyone with a library card and can be accessed on the library website (kerncountylibrary.org).

The City of Shafter announced that Valley Strong Credit Union will open its first branch in Shafter soon near Highway 43 & Central Avenue, expanding local ATM access.

Bakersfield’s BBB representative Joe Ducey urges consumers to freeze their credit as a free way to guard against scammers.

He explained that freezing credit leaves existing cards unaffected while requiring a planned thaw for new credit applications.

Showers resumed at Lerdo Detention Facility after Kern County Public Health approved corrective filter installations, but the do not drink advisory remains in effect as inmates receive water from an outside source.

Officials are continuing water quality tests to meet state standards.

The Kern County Associated Veterans Honor Guard is urgently seeking veteran volunteers to ensure full military funeral honors amid a staffing shortage (volunteers from all branches are encouraged to help).

Those interested may email Director Jose Lopez.

Today, a major sewer improvement project begins on Eye Street between Wall and 23rd in downtown Bakersfield—road closures and detours will affect drivers through August.

Art Williams grew up in Bakersfield after his family moved from Arkansas and became the first African American umpire in the National League in 1972.

He later died from a tumor and left a legacy that continues to inspire local athletes.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Concert by Dueto Voces del Rancho & Chaque Peña Junior

8 p.m. — La Movida Night Club — Tickets available — Experience a vibrant night of regional music with top artists in a legendary venue.

Heartland Charter School Field Day

10 AM – 12 PM — Westdale Park — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled day of athletic games and family bonding at this exciting Field Day event.

CSUB Jazz Coffeehouse

7:30 p.m. — CSUB Music Building, Room 127 — $10 General Admission, $5 for Students & Seniors — Experience jazz standards and original compositions by local talents and guest artists.