Good morning, Bakersfield.

Hard Rock Casino Tejon donated 500 backpacks (part of Sen. Shannon Grove’s annual drive) to support Kern County students in need of school supplies.

The donation benefits children from Westside Recreation and Park District and Safe Haven Kids’ League ahead of the new school year.

WWII Navy veteran Fernando 'Ferny' Hernandez turned 100 recently and was celebrated with fellow veterans at a local VFW post in Lake Isabella — he reflected on his service aboard the USS Saint Croix during key Pacific moments.

A garbage truck caught fire Thursday morning on Rollo Ravine Drive (near Highway 178) in East Bakersfield, prompting officials to warn residents against disposing of batteries and hazardous waste in household trash as investigations continue.

Bakersfield City School District hosted its first Little Black Scholars, Big Dreams event on July 30 at the BCSD Education Center.

Over 100 African American preschool and kindergarten students and families took part in career-themed activities (booths, backpacks, and a Passport of Possibilities) to feel welcome.

Northbound Highway 99 closed overnight on July 30 from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for new bridge sign installation and striping, and drivers were redirected via Ming Avenue+Wible Road+Oak Street+California Avenue under the City’s plan.

Assembly Bill 2410 would let officials quickly remove dead trees and brush to lower wildfire risk in high-risk areas near Bakersfield; if signed, the permit exemption will last until Jan.

1, 2030 + lawmakers are still reviewing the measure.

The Mission at Kern County has opened its cooling center daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 816 East 21st Street—helping residents beat the summer heat—while officials ask for bottled water, hygiene products, hats, and socks.

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.