Good morning, Bakersfield.

Organizers are hosting the 12th annual MADD Dash on September 13 at Riverwalk — an event that honors victims of a drunk driving accident.

Community members are invited to burn calories and support families affected by impaired driving.

Today, the Mission at Kern County began construction on a new 13,000-square-foot facility—featuring a computer lab, larger kitchen and dining room that seats 180—that will also provide housing for addiction recovery graduates.

Construction will finish by the end of 2026 without affecting current residents.

A 15-year-old bicyclist was struck by a car Wednesday morning at Olive Drive and Old Farm Road in Bakersfield and walked away with minor injuries—police cited him for not wearing a helmet.

A 3.6 magnitude earthquake hit southwest of Bakersfield today at 5:03 a.m. near Millux—most shaking was felt in the city’s southwest, south and northwest areas and there are no reports of damage or injury.

Portrait of a Warrior Gallery celebrates its seventh anniversary today by honoring 27 fallen heroes from Kern County with the ringing of the Freedom Bell and a reading of their names.

Board president Jeff Salters said the gallery’s expanded rooms support Gold Star families and veterans.

Kern County unemployment neared 10% yesterday as Richard Gearhart from Cal State Bakersfield explained the rise during an interview with ARC Bakersfield—he noted this rate is among the highest in the state and shows how local job losses are affecting the area.

The discussion highlighted ongoing economic challenges that may continue to stress local workers.

PG&E and Southern California Edison say Kern residents can expect lower energy bills as the cooler weather helps reduce air conditioner use—PG&E reported a 2.1% rate drop that saves about $5 monthly and will offer a $58.23 credit in October, while customers are urged to conserve energy by turning off lights and using fans.

A 3.6 earthquake shook the area 12.4 miles northeast of Maricopa at 8:53 p.m. Wednesday night and was felt in Southwest Bakersfield—no damage was reported.

The federal EV tax credit—worth up to $7,500—will end on September 30, which may cause car buyers’ monthly payments to rise as local dealers adjust prices and inventory.

Bob Leikam from Three-Way Chevrolet-Cadillac said the credit had boosted lot traffic and its expiration will change available discounts.

Bakersfield City Council approved two housing developments Wednesday—despite objections from local environmental groups.

Lawmakers introduced a bill aimed at boosting Kern oil production by protecting the county's oil permitting system from environmental legal challenges — the legislation emerged from closed-door negotiations and will debut at the state Capitol.

Yesterday, National Suicide Prevention Day was observed as local survivor Belinda Lopez Rickett shared her story after losing her husband in August 2019.

She joined SALT (Save A Life Today) to turn her grief into advocacy and help Kern County learn key warning signs.

Bakersfield residents face high weed pollen exposure as the city ranks second nationwide according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America — Kern County’s hot and dry weather makes allergy season start earlier and last longer.

Residents are advised to use air filters, check the AQI, and get a flu shot for added protection.

The Rayford Bros. Concert

12:00 a.m. – 4:00 a.m. — California Rock Art Foundation — $ — Dance the night away with The Rayford Bros, delivering vintage rock n' roll and surf classics.

Phora Live in Bakersfield

7-10 p.m. — Memento Mori Event Center — Tickets available — Catch Phora performing live on tour in Bakersfield this fall.

Faculty Concert

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Doré Theatre — $12 General Admission, $7 Seniors, Free for CSUB Students — Enjoy a variety of performances by CSUB Music faculty featuring works by Prokofiev and more.

Katchafire Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — Tickets via Ticketmaster — Experience the vibrant sounds of Katchafire and Ka'ikena in a lively atmosphere.

Militarie Gun, Death Lens, and Milly Concert

7-10 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — Cost Info N/A — Experience an evening with powerful performances from Militarie Gun, Death Lens, and Milly.

Los Bélicos De Culiacán Live Concert

8 p.m. — La Movida Night Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of electrifying regional music with Los Bélicos De Culiacán and special guests.

Northlane Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Nile Theater — Tickets available — Experience Northlane's new music with their fresh lineup.

Goat Yoga Classes

8:30-9:30 a.m. — Cherry Acres — Bring your yoga mat — Enjoy a unique yoga experience complemented by friendly goats.

Bely y Beto

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Dignity Health Arena, Theater and Convention Center — Cost info not available — Enjoy a vibrant family-friendly show featuring beloved characters Bely and Beto.

Saliva Concert

11:30 AM – 8:00 PM — The Nile Theater — Ticketed event — Rock out with Saliva, the band that brought fresh energy and spirit since 2011.