Good morning, Bakersfield.

Joan Payton, a 20-year volunteer who grooms shelter dogs, has helped hundreds of animals look healthier and cuter for adoption in the local community.

Miles Elliot, a Porterville native and helicopter pilot, died on Aug.

7 in Utah fighting the Widemouth 2 Fire - Portersville now honors his legacy with deep community loss.

The Bakersfield City School District held its Little Black Scholars, Big Dreams event at the end of July to welcome African American students and families with interactive activities — the district will follow up with attendees as classes begin soon.

Teachers started on Monday and students return Wednesday.

Jackie, the bald eagle rescued near Big Bear Lake, died Monday morning after receiving over three weeks of intensive care at the Ojai Raptor Center + CALM provided a blood donation from Eagle Spirit; her remains were transferred to the state wildlife agency and her mate continues guarding the nest.

The Better Business Bureau reports that investment scams, online counterfeit sales, and phishing schemes are draining money from residents, so experts advise checking business names on bbb.org & staying cautious with unexpected texts.

Kern County Public Health Department reported its first human West Nile virus case on Friday and advised Bakersfield residents to inspect yards for standing water and use insect repellent.

Terry Knight (of Kern Vector and Mosquito Control) said even a quarter-cup of water lets mosquitoes breed.

Olorofim is showing positive trial results for treating severe Valley fever infections, with research led by Dr. Fariba Donovan at the Valley Fever Center for Excellence + efforts underway to develop a rapid test.

Local hockey team Bakersfield Condors is hiring game day staff before its 2026-27 season begins with the home opener on Oct.

17. Open roles include mascot assistant, t-shirt cannon operator, and in-game host, and the team will expand its plaza pregame experience with inflatables and live music.

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.