Bakersfield
Today
Thursday, May 14th, 2026
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 14th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ International Family Day will be held on Sunday, May 24 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Jastro Park — a free event that brings together families with live music, games and raffles organized by local nonprofit Power Moves 365. 23ABC News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Drivers in Kern County have expressed worry over a potential motor oil shortage after social media posts circulated rumors amid rising gas prices; however, Mobil and Shell have confirmed that their packaged stocks are secure, allowing routine maintenance to continue without supply delays. Bakersfield Now
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Wendy Castaneda-Leal, superintendent of the Semitropic district on Highway 46 near Wasco, is running for state superintendent of public instruction on June 2 (drawing on over 20 years of local education experience and witnessing inequities directly). 23ABC News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Kern County firefighters are battling the wind-driven Desert Fire today near West Rosamond Blvd and 50th Street West, burning about 5 acres and threatening 20 structures while residents in evacuation zone KRN-153-B must leave for safety at Hummel Hall (2500 20th St. West). 23ABC News
- ➤ Thousands will visit the Kern River this Memorial Day weekend as temperatures rise, but officials warn that deceptive currents have led to 342 deaths since 1968 and will urge visitors to wear life jackets. They say the river will remain unpredictable with dam release changes. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ A wildfire known as the Neuralia Fire near California City grew to more than 1,196 acres Wednesday afternoon with no containment after two separate fires merged; CHP closed Neuralia Road (between Phillips and Red Rock Randsburg roads) as aerial resources arrive. 23ABC News
- ➤ Invasive golden mussels are spreading through California waterways and local water agencies are urged to act fast to protect irrigation and cooling systems. Experts met Wednesday to discuss using UV treatment to slow the rapid spread. 23ABC News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A Kern County board vote ensures victims can still access services at the Family Justice Center in Bakersfield, although some support will now be provided off-site as a new arrangement takes effect. The Bakersfield Californian
- ➤ Today, Bakersfield observes Peace Officer Memorial Week with ceremonies honoring officers; the first event starts at 7 a.m. at the Memorial near police headquarters and Truxtun Avenue is closed from 6 to 10 a.m.—the Kern County Sheriff’s Office and Superior Court hold tributes at 10 a.m. and noon. KUZZ
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Kern Medical's trauma center was re-verified with zero deficiencies by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma after a year-long review — the hospital remains the only Level 2 trauma center within 100 miles and maintains its commitment to high-quality care. 23ABC News
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Lucky's Crew Animal Rescue features Koda on Wag Wednesday. The 7-month-old shepherd-husky mix rescued with six siblings in December is now ready for adoption and director Kelly Gould said Koda would thrive in an active family. 23ABC News
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Bakersfield home prices are nearing $400,000 today, a 6.2% jump from last year, making affordability tougher for local families. Local real estate experts say that increased migration from pricier parts of California and careful budgeting are key to navigating the market. 23ABC News
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The Lovers Rock - Sade Tribute
8-11 p.m. — BottleShock Wine and Brew — Fundraising event — Enjoy a night of Sade's legendary sounds while supporting Kern County students in music and STEM education.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The more complete the despair, the more complete the awakening.
~ Carl Jung
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