Good morning, Bakersfield.

Bakersfield resident Sasha Wrist is collecting donations outside Global Boba on 24th Street to help families in Venezuela after recent earthquakes.

She and her husband Giovanni Lopez are accepting essential items—like canned food, clothing and hygiene products—and plan to deliver the aid through Los Angeles.

Cal State Bakersfield was recognized by Money magazine in its national ranking of American colleges, marking another achievement after a decade of evaluations.

The recognition underscores the university’s strong academic standing in our community.

Delano trustees unanimously approved renaming Cesar Chavez High School to Chavez Collegiate High School ahead of the fall semester to honor the school’s history (and reduce transition costs by avoiding a $100,000 fee).

Signs and documents will be updated before students return.

Edwards Air Force Base held a memorial Monday to honor eight individuals killed in the June 15 B-52 crash.

Airmen, families, and civilians gathered inside a hangar as speakers paid tribute to their enduring legacy.

Kern County Fire Department warns that illegal fireworks will lead to fines starting at ($1,500 penalty) and may result in jail time as enforcement increases ahead of the Fourth of July; officials urge residents to choose safe-and-sane options and file reports online (mountain communities must follow the same strict rules).

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.

Lefty Gunplay Concert

8-11:30 p.m. — La Movida Night Club — Tickets from $94 — Lefty Gunplay brings an unforgettable live music experience to Bakersfield.