Good morning, Bakersfield.

A Bakersfield native working as a crane inspector in Qatar is stranded amid escalating U.S.-Iran conflict, sheltering at an industrial camp as flights remain closed due to safety concerns.

He and two other Americans may soon try a risky journey to Saudi Arabia — leaving behind food, shelter and safety if help arrives.

Grocery prices in Bakersfield are rising today as local store owner Kahlid Mansour reports that produce imported from Mexico, including tomatoes and cucumbers, now costs more following supply chain disruptions.

Shoppers are comparing prices to stretch their budgets.

Independent local oil producers are facing increased challenges as the only crude pipeline — used for shipments to a Bay Area refinery — remains idled, limiting their options.

An AARP survey finds 7% of retirees have returned to work as rising costs stretch their savings — local economist Aaron Hegde said higher healthcare and housing expenses drive the trend.

His findings show that many older adults face ongoing financial challenges.

Bakersfield College will celebrate Women’s History Month with WHAM 2026 under the theme Rooted in Resilience: Seeds of Change, Voices of Power; the kick-off event is Tuesday, March 10, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Levan Center Courtyard, with trivia, art, and leadership seminars planned.

Kern County Public Works announced that Hall Road from Main Street to Velma Avenue in Lamont was closed Wednesday due to a broken water line (repair crews started work around 12:30 p.m near Highway 184).

Kern County Public Health said it contacted over 30 vendors and issued 11 citations at the Casa Loma Swap Meet to protect community health.

The agency impounded equipment from one vendor as it enforced safety permits.

City leaders in Arvin announced plans to upgrade Comanche Drive with sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks and signage near schools.

Construction will take about 40 days starting after Haven Drive work is complete using a $6.8 million grant, and residents will receive notifications in English and Spanish.

Valkyrie, a mixed-breed dog who loves people, is featured by Lucky's Crew Animal Rescue after being found abandoned as a puppy.

The rescue will host Paws and Prosecco — a designer handbag bingo fundraiser — on Saturday, Mar. 7 to help care for more animals.

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.

Bakersfield Marathon

7 AM - 1 PM — Kern County Museum — Registration required — Experience a scenic race featuring full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 6K options through Bakersfield.

Jackyl Concert

7-10 p.m. — BarrelHouse Brewing Bakersfield — All Ages — Experience loud, gritty rock & roll with Jackyl's high-octane performance.

CSUB CalFresh Carnival

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Student Union — Free entry — Discover the new Mobile SNAP Vehicle and learn about accessible benefits for rural communities.

Viejones Mañosos Tour

9 PM – 1 AM — La Movida Night Club — Tickets selling fast — Experience a vibrant night of live regional music with renowned artists in an electrifying atmosphere.