Good morning, Bakersfield.

Local mechanic Jorge Suarez of Fast Auto Services in Bakersfield warns drivers that while catalytic converter thefts have slowed, Hondas and Chevrolets remain vulnerable, and he recommends installing removable guards + parking in well-lit areas to help prevent costly repairs.

Downtown businesses report that the city construction project—using a parking lot as a staging area—is cutting foot traffic by 80% and causing parking issues, as crews will block parking next Wednesday while the project stays on track to finish by late October.

More than 200 students in kindergarten to seventh grade from Panama-Buena Vista Union display their summer artwork at Arts Council of Kern Gallery on Eighteenth Street.

The exhibit, extended to run for two weeks, lets visitors explore creative projects in painting, drawing, and design.

Legal experts advise residents to verify a lawyer’s license by checking bar numbers and online reviews, then asking friends for referrals before hiring counsel—cautioning against any promise of guaranteed outcomes.

Water agencies report that golden mussels have clogged Kern County water intakes and cost over $11.2 million since December, with projected expenses rising to $23.8 million in the next six months (and $36.4 million annually).

Local officials are asking the Governor to declare a state of emergency.

Work has begun on a more than half million-dollar fuel break project in Hart Flat — designed to reduce wildfire risks and protect the local community.

The project is part of efforts to improve safety in the area.

A bald eagle injured in Big Bear received a life saving transfusion from CALM Zoo resident Spirit on Thursday (as part of a cooperative wildlife effort) and is now under intensive care at Ojai Raptor Center to treat severe anemia and kidney inflammation.

Nearly 167,000 Covered California plan holders in the San Joaquin Valley will pay about 11% more for health insurance in 2027, which may lead to higher health care costs.

From August through December, Kern County high school football will start its 40th season on Friday nights as fans gather under stadium lights to cheer local teams (with NFL players also visiting local youth camps) that unite families in the community.

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.

California's Best Hip Hop Music Festival

7-9 p.m. — Mechanics Bank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience live performances from top West Coast hip hop artists.