Good morning, Bakersfield.

The Kern Transportation Foundation’s 34th annual conference is underway today at C-TEC in Southwest Bakersfield, where transportation experts discuss the future of freight and autonomous rail technology (Jeremy Heaton of A and B Robotics is the keynote speaker introducing a self-moving flatcar concept).

Bakersfield College’s Industrial Automation Department held a senior project open house yesterday at the robotics lab on the Panorama Campus, where students demonstrated projects including a modernized Pegasus 5-Axis Servo Robot + a Kern County Sheriff Department robot car that showcased a semester of planning and skill.

At Golden Valley High School’s spring concert last Thursday, band students urged the quick return of band teacher Mr. Hicks (on paid administrative leave since March 17) as the district offered no details and encouraged parents to seek updates.

CSUB will hold its spring commencement at Dignity Health Arena on Saturday with ceremonies at 8 a.m. for Arts, Business, and Sciences and at 1 p.m. for Social Sciences and Education; over 1,500 graduates will be honored and the event will be livestreamed (indoor seating helps beat Bakersfield’s unpredictable weather).

Residents in Inyokern are opposing a proposed data center by R & L Capital that could hurt water and air quality, strain local infrastructure and disrupt long-term sustainability.

The project is under regulatory review by the California Energy Commission and may provide some jobs if approved.

Kern County celebrates National Police Week (through May 16).

The Bakersfield Police Department will hold a ceremony at 7:00 a.m. on Thursday at Truxtun Avenue while the Kern County Sheriff’s Office hosts a memorial at 10:00 a.m. at its Norris Road headquarters.

Officer David J. Nelson Memorial Scholarship Fund moved to the Bakersfield Police Officers Foundation during National Police Week at Legends Lounge.

The transfer honors the fallen officer’s legacy and supports local students pursuing public service careers.

Today, Cecil Egbele explains that doulas can support Black mothers facing higher pregnancy risks in Kern County — a critical need outlined by local data.

The report highlights how this care may help reduce disparities in maternal health.

Hard Rock Casino Tejon is hosting race week events this June with a live SiriusXM Speedway broadcast and driver meet-and-greets (Zane Smith and Noah Gragson) on June 24, plus watch parties at Hard Rock Cafe on June 19, 20, 21, and 28.

The casino partners with Front Row Motorsports to bring fans closer to the action.

Aztec Image Car Show Featuring Lil Rob

12-3 p.m. — Kern County Fair And Event Center — Free entry — Experience the vibrant culture of custom cars and live performances at this beloved annual gathering.

Goat Yoga Class at Cherry Acres

8:30-9:30 a.m. — Cherry Acres — Bring your yoga mat and enjoy a playful blend of yoga and adorable goats in a serene farm setting.

Robert Jon and the Wreck Live

7-11 p.m. — World Records — Ticketed event — Enjoy an electrifying mix of Southern rock and West Coast soul with Robert Jon & The Wreck.

Bakersfield Puerto Rican Salsa Festival

1-8 p.m. — Kern County Shrine Club — Donations accepted — Dance to salsa beats and enjoy Puerto Rican culture while raising funds for student scholarships.

The Ghost Brothers of Darkland County

7:30 p.m. — Bakersfield Community Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a haunting tale of love and tragedy set to music from Stephen King and John Mellencamp.