Good morning, Bakersfield.

On Wednesday, Kern County Probation celebrated 24 Adult Program Center graduates in a ceremony that recognized participants for completing a rehabilitation program designed to help them build stable futures through education, counseling, and job support.

Officials said the program provides essential tools for lasting change.

Shirley, a five-year-old Chihuahua, is available for adoption now from Kern County Animal Services (3951 Fruitvale Ave in Bakersfield).

Found abandoned near Arvin with another dog, she is dog- and cat-friendly and great with kids, ready to join a loving home.

Rock & Wings in East Bakersfield is hosting its third World Cup watch party as match nights boost sales and work hours, and owner Miguel Sanchez said he will see another full house when Mexico faces Czechia Tuesday evening.

The Sill Building has stood as a downtown landmark since 1940 at the corner of Chester Ave. and 18th Street; designed by local and Fresno architects, it once displayed a 48-foot Coca-Cola neon sign — removed in 1962.

Drivers in Kern County paid $5.73 per gallon on Wednesday compared with $5.54 in LA County - a surprise since local oil must be sent by pipeline to refineries and returned by truck, boosting prices.

The California Highway Patrol’s Fort Tejon Office is hosting a free two-hour Start Smart class for teen drivers and their parents on Tuesday, July 21 at 6 p.m. Interested families should call (661) 248-6655 soon to register as space is limited.

The Bakersfield City School District board voted unanimously Tuesday to rename Cesar Chavez Elementary as Helen Chavez Elementary to honor the influential matriarch of the farmworker labor movement (the change follows allegations made against the former namesake) while a related mural has already been removed downtown.

Kern County Public Health and the Sheriff’s Office conducted an enforcement operation on June 20 after community complaints led to 18 cease and desist orders for unpermitted food vendors.

Equipment was seized from several vendors, including Dylan's Tacos at Allen Road & Rosedale Highway.

Residents in Cattle King Estates are worried about an illegal dumping site that has been growing for over a year and causing fire hazards and pest issues.

City Code Enforcement has issued multiple violation notices and is currently seeking contractor bids to clear the debris — action that may bill the property owner.

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.

Comedy Night with Joe Torry

8-10 p.m. — Legends Lounge & Event Center — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening filled with side-splitting laughter from comedy legend Joe Torry.