Good morning, Bakersfield.

Kern County Animal Services held its third meeting Wednesday evening at Ben Austin Senior Center to address stray and dangerous dogs and link residents with local pet services (including low-cost pet care and spay and neuter programs); SOS Dog Rescue urged reports to boost pet safety.

Arvin is upgrading five city parks with new restrooms, lighting, and picnic tables funded by city taxpayers and a $250,000 San Joaquin Air District grant.

Work began in 2025, and improvements include 21 picnic tables and tree plantings (from previously purchased items) to address local concerns.

Adventist Health cut 22 jobs at four Kern County sites as part of a restructuring effort in quality, infection prevention, and risk departments, effective July 2.

The health provider is working to transfer affected employees to new roles.

PG&E advised residents to save on energy bills during high summer heat by setting thermostats to 78, using fans, unplugging devices, and checking assistance programs; it also warned against scammers asking for immediate prepaid payments (or Venmo, Zelle) and urged customers to verify calls and texts.

Bakersfield College hosted the first pinning ceremony for the Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway on July 8.

Eight scholars received pins, certificates and other items while local officials celebrated their new step toward a career in medicine.

Inyokern Airport and China Lake Naval Base have raised concerns about a proposed data center potentially affecting aviation safety and test range operations (officials worry about industrial-scale impacts).

The California Energy Commission is seeking public input and additional project data.

Hard Rock Casino Tejon is hosting a blood drive on Monday, July 13, 2026, from noon to 6 p.m. in its Marketplace Banquets Room (eligible Unity Rewards donors receive $25 in free play) as it partners with Houchin Community Blood Bank.

Peanut is a six-month-old pup rescued from a broken leg at Lucky's Crew Animal Rescue + recovered after surgery, and he will be available for adoption by the end of July following his neuter appointment next week.

Kern County climbed four spots + now ranks among the top-10 metro areas for affordable housing for young buyers on ConsumerAffairs' 2026 list.

Bakersfield’s City Lights retail project has leased 85% of its space—broker reports rising interest from local retailers.

Demand is expected to continue as remaining spots fill.

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.

Fireflies

7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. — Bakersfield Community Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a heartwarming tale of late-in-life romance with Eleanor Bannister.