Good morning, Bakersfield.

An online petition that has gained nearly 5,000 signatures calls on Valley Plaza Mall to ban unsupervised minors after reports of assaults and fights have raised safety concerns.

Organizer Kasandra Gallegos and other community members are debating the need for restrictions—some support full bans while others suggest supervision after certain hours.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said that on June 12 it discovered contraband items — 53 weapons, 66 cell phones, 24 syringes and 155 other objects — during sweeps at several prisons in response to rising violence.

From May 29 to June 12, assaults, riots, attempted homicides and two homicides led to enhanced searches using K9s and cameras to keep contraband out.

Daniel Keith Johnson, 22, accused of stabbing and wounding four family members in 2023, will be evaluated by a clinical psychologist before a competency hearing on July 9 determines if his trial proceeds—if he is found incompetent, he will be sent for treatment while he faces charges of mayhem and four counts of attempted murder and is held on no bail.

NAACP Bakersfield chapter president Patrick Jackson said the 10th annual Juneteenth celebration now spans four days with events including a panel discussion on June 18th at B.C., brunch today at Eclipse Azul from 11 am to 4 pm, a mixer on June 20th at Jazz Spot from 7 am to 10 pm, and a celebration on June 21st at Patriots Park from 1 pm to 7 pm. He noted the growing chapter (280 members) will use the events to discuss community issues including physical and mental health.

Kern County Fair organizers added Walker Hayes and Banda Machos to the 2025 music lineup.

Banda Machos will perform as part of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon Concert Series on Sept. 21 at 8 p.m., and Walker Hayes will perform on Sept. 22 at 8 p.m. – all concerts are free with a general admission ticket.

Kern County Animal Services proposed a new $60 million shelter to replace its crowded Rosedale facility at a recent Board of Supervisors meeting.

The board approved a 4.5-acre site for the planned shelter opening mid-2026 and is weighing funding options from the General Fund to external debt financing—this plan comes as dog intakes have surged.

The Bear Valley Springs Emergency Radio Team will host a radio distribution event at the Equestrian Center at 26800 Bear Valley Road on Saturday, June 21 with sessions at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Residents will pay a $25 donation to receive a battery-powered, receive-only radio that will activate emergency alerts—ensuring clear communication when disasters strike.

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.

Bakersfield Train Robbers vs. Vallejo Seaweed

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Sam Lynn Ballpark — Tickets available — Catch an exciting summer baseball game while supporting a good cause.

Makeup Blowout Sale in Bakersfield

10 AM - 5 PM — Four Points by Sheraton Bakersfield — Free entry — Experience a massive annual sale with discounts up to 75% on top beauty brands.

Battle of the Bartenders

2-6 p.m. — The Iron Lily Venue — All-inclusive ticket required — Experience a lively cocktail showdown with top local bartenders and food samplings benefitting the Houchin Community Blood Bank.

El Jerry Gerardo Coronel & Más

9 p.m. — La Movida Night Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience vibrant Latin rhythms and energetic performances from Erick Y La Zecta.

Bakersfield Train Robbers vs. Dublin Leprechauns

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Sam Lynn Ballpark — Ticket availability and fair pricing — Enjoy an exciting baseball matchup in Bakersfield.

Soccer Camp in Bakersfield

8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. — Kaiser Permanente Sports Village Soccer Complex — Registration required — Enhance skills with Real Madrid Foundation coaches in a fun and inclusive environment.

Tribute to Café Tacvba by La Chilanga Band

7 PM — Rock & Wings — Tickets available — Experience a vibrant fusion of Latino and pop music with La Chilanga Band.