Saturday, August 9th, 2025

Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Bakersfield Today.
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 9th of August.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Social Den Barbers will host a back-to-school giveaway tomorrow at 8 a.m. for children aged 4 to 13—offering free haircuts, backpacks, and school supplies—and owner Manuel Conteras said the event will help kids in need. Bakersfield Now
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ On August 6, 2025, the California Board of Parole Hearings denied parole to Juan Cantu—convicted of a 1980 murder in Bakersfield—citing his continued risk to public safety after serving 44 years in prison; his next hearing may occur in 18 months. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Bakersfield family members urged reforms to Kern County’s child welfare system after 8-year-old Genesis Mata was tortured and killed earlier this month; her father Ray Mata Jr. and stepmother Graciela Bustamante are charged with murder, torture, mayhem and multiple counts of child abuse + community members gathered to honor her. 23ABC News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Today, fans, actors and vendors gather at Dignity Health Arena for the 11th annual Bakersfield Collector-Con 2025—featuring meet-and-greets, a cosplay contest and other pop culture events. The convention will continue tomorrow with additional panels and vendor booths as locals join in celebrating the event. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Actor/comedian Mike Epps will perform at the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater on September 13—doors open at 7 p.m. and tickets are now on sale for the 18+ show. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Spotlight Academy has moved into its new space at 5415 Woodmere Dr — the group began its move in June — and will host a show this weekend that takes the audience back to the first day of high school. 23ABC News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Bakersfield city officials proposed an ADU forgivable loan program to help eligible homeowners fix unpermitted accessory dwelling units + meet safety standards; homeowners must rent these units to low-income tenants for five years and the program will be funded by state housing funds with an updated proposal coming to City Council soon. 23ABC News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Wildfires and a heat wave have lowered air quality, putting people with asthma and weak immune systems at risk—experts recommend wearing masks outdoors. The poor air conditions are expected to continue—making it vital for residents to take precautions. Bakersfield Now
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Bakersfield Today.
-
Concert Featuring LIL KAYLA & LOU DEEZI
7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Nile Theater — Tickets from $36.01 — Enjoy an evening of Hip-Hop/Rap with emerging artists Lil Kayla and Lou Deezi.
-
In The End - The Linkin Park Experience
8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Nile Theater — Tickets available — Experience the energy of Linkin Park's tribute band performing fan favorites live.
-
Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening
8:00-9:30 p.m. — Dignity Health Arena, Theater and Convention Center — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate 50 years of ‘Physical Graffiti’ with the son of the legendary Led Zeppelin drummer.
-
Boots on the Ground Soul Festival
7-8:30 p.m. — The Nile Theater — Refunds available — Experience the ultimate soulful celebration at Bakersfield's 2nd Annual Soul Festival.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

Stay Connected Anywhere with This Powerful Portable Charger
Never worry about dead batteries or missed calls again. This high-capacity, portable power bank is a game-changer for anyone who relies on their devices throughout the day. With the ability to charge up to five devices at once, it’s perfect for families, professionals, and travelers alike.
Its compact design makes it easy to carry, while its powerful output ensures your phone, tablet, earbuds, and more stay fully charged no matter where you are. Say goodbye to low-battery anxiety and hello to uninterrupted productivity.
Whether you’re commuting, on vacation, or working remotely, this charger is your ultimate power solution. Stay connected, stay powered, and never miss a moment.
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Bakersfield Today.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.
Know who said this? Send us an email!
Reveal the authorAbout Bakersfield Today
Welcome to the Bakersfield Today, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Bakersfield, California community. If you like the Bakersfield Today, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Bakersfield.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in Bakersfield and across California. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Bakersfield Today
A free Bakersfield community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.

© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://bakersfieldtodaynews.com/sitemap