Good morning, Bakersfield.

After a deadly B-52 crash at Edwards Air Force Base that claimed eight lives, a candlelight vigil was held and community efforts such as the Bakersfield Condors jersey raffle & Fallen Wings Foundation fundraiser supported affected families, with a base memorial service planned for next week.

On Thursday at Bakersfield Beer Company, fans enjoyed a watch party that celebrated Mexico’s 1-0 win over South Korea and showed strong community ties & a shared appreciation of culture.

Attorney Candace Neal launched her new law practice on Thursday evening during Juneteenth week to mark a milestone in her career.

She said that overcoming challenges from foster care to local law inspires community members to pursue their own dreams.

Evacuation orders were issued for zones KRN-209-B (and KRN-219-B) in western Kern County northwest of McKittrick after the Lost Fire burned 682 acres and began just before 10 a.m. Thursday, according to fire officials.

The Tehachapi Symphony Orchestra will hold a free concert on Sunday, June 21 at Country Oaks Baptist Church to honor board member and musician Miles Middleton, whose empty viola chair will stand in his memory — actress Darleen Carr will perform and the event will be live streamed on YouTube.

For 70 years, the Bakersfield Museum of Art has showcased local & international works through rotating exhibits and youth programs that invite everyone to explore creative expression.

The museum aims to bring world-class art into Kern County each season.

Kern County supervisors approved Terra-Gen’s 7,700-acre Discovery Solar Project near Mojave—expected to create up to 660 jobs during construction—and local leaders questioned whether residents would receive enough revenue; construction will begin in coming years.

Bakersfield fire officials warn that illegal dumping of green waste is causing fire hazards and forcing taxpayer cleanup costs higher as remote sites overburden resources (call 661-326-3114) while the community faces rising summer temperatures.

Kern County representatives Fong and Valadao signed a bipartisan letter urging the federal government to release $32.2 million for pest control — funds aimed at protecting grape crops from invasive pests.

The move supports efforts to bolster California’s grape industry.

Houchin Community Blood Bank is urgently seeking Type O blood donors as supplies drop nationwide + locals are encouraged to visit the donation center to help boost inventory.

NEF The Pharaoh

4:20-10 p.m. — Paradise Palace Hall — Free entry — Experience live music, local vendors, and delicious food at this vibrant community event.

USPA Tested and Open WE ARE THE STRONG 2 Meet

8 a.m. — National Academy of Strength and Power — Registration required — Compete against some of the best lifters in the area with both tested and non-tested divisions.

BELY Y BETO

3-6 p.m. — Mechanics Bank Arena — Tickets required — Experience joy and magic with these beloved children's entertainers.

Comedy Night with Jeff Dye

6:30-11 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — $30-$40 — Experience a night of laughter with Jeff Dye's sharp and hilarious comedy.

Bakersfield International Music Festival 2026

All day — CSUB Music — Registration required — A ten-day solo & chamber music program welcoming aspiring pianists and string players from 7th grade onward.

Midland Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Mechanics Bank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening with Midland as they bring their country hits to Bakersfield.

Hat Trick Watch Experience at Dave & Buster's

12 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Bakersfield — Starting at $24.99 — Enjoy unlimited wings, fries, and video games while cheering for your favorite team on massive screens.