Good morning, Bakersfield.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County will serve free meals to kids ages 18 and under during its Summer Meal Program this summer at sites in Bakersfield, Arvin and Lamont—meals are offered Monday through Friday at different times.

Bakersfield locations run from June 2 to August 12, Arvin’s service began May 30 and Lamont’s runs from June 9 to July 22—no paperwork is needed to join.

On May 8, officers responded to a report of a bicyclist accident at the intersection of Owens Street and Quincy Street in East Bakersfield when an 11-year-old boy was hit by a car, and a vigil was held Thursday for him as he remains in critical condition at a local hospital—neighbors are urging the city to add stop signs and safety measures.

Former deputy Michael Everett Clark (fired in 2019) faces a jury decision in Bakersfield after attorneys presented closing arguments Friday regarding allegations that he misused his authority, engaging in unwanted physical contact and lewd remarks by targeting five women.

Family members of Taylor Dominguez Estrada—fatally stabbed on May 28 in an alleged domestic violence incident—gathered outside the courthouse as her cousin vowed to advocate against abuse while suspect Rafael Estrada missed his May 30 court appearance and is set to appear on June 2.

Local high school graduate Juan Alfaro, one of three Mira Monte valedictorians, will start at UCLA this fall as a first generation college student to study civil engineering — he credits his father's work in construction and his supportive family for inspiring his academic journey in Bakersfield.

Del Oro High School held its first graduation Friday night, marking a historic milestone for the Class of 2025 with 352 students finishing school.

School leaders and community members celebrated the event, and valedictorian Miguel Estevez said he felt a sense of belonging after moving to Bakersfield (a strong start for local education).

Kevin Albertson was named chief of the Bakersfield Fire Department effective June 2 and will lead the team after serving as interim chief since December 2024—City Manager Christian Clegg said his 25 years of experience and record of new program leadership make him the best choice.

Bakersfield City Council approved $300,000 for the Parks and Recreation Department to install 21 new Verkada cameras in local parks—Planz, Jefferson, Patriots, Greystone, and Central Park—to boost security.

Bill Owens said the system uses geo-fencing technology for remote monitoring and the project is expected to be finished by the end of the year.

Kern County Superior Court warned residents on May 30 that scammers impersonated court officials by sending deceptive text messages with links asking for payment— the court stressed it will not request payments by text message.

On-Site Senior Living Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Able Care Home — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living communities dedicated to exceptional care and engaging activities.

Shoreline Mafia Concert in Bakersfield

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Nile Theater — Tickets available — Experience the unique West Coast flow of Shoreline Mafia live in concert.

You Should Be Dancing - A Tribute To The Bee Gees

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Nile Theater — Prices may vary — Groove to the iconic sounds of the Bee Gees in this lively tribute performance.

USPA Tested and Open We Are Strong Powerlifting Championships

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — National Academy of Strength and Power — Registration fee required — Compete in various powerlifting divisions in a well-organized championship event.

Alfred Robles Stand-Up Comedy Show

7-9:30 p.m. — The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater — Ticket prices vary — Catch a rising star in comedy with Alfred Robles, who turned setbacks into laughs.

Bakersfield Train Robbers vs. Dublin Leprechauns

6:30-8 p.m. — Sam Lynn Ballpark — Ticket sales support a charitable cause — Experience an exciting baseball matchup while contributing to a great community initiative.

Purity, Humility & New Meditation Techniques

7-8:30 p.m. — Greenacres Community Center — Free entry — Explore insights on purity and humility while learning new meditation techniques.

Summer Nights Truck and Car Show

12 PM — Kern County Fair And Event Center — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience cool trucks, delicious food, and good vibes during this summer celebration.

Homebuyer Workshop

10 AM – 3 PM — Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County - Armstrong Youth Center — Free entry — Gain essential homebuying knowledge with expert advice and access to financial assistance options.

Virtual Tour of Summit Hills Senior Living

9 AM - 7 PM — The Pointe at Summit Hills — Free entry — Explore top-rated senior living options with an emphasis on exceptional care and quality dining.