Good morning, Bakersfield.

Today at 10:14 p.m. the community gathered at Bakersfield Country Club for the 'Grateful Gala' fundraiser supporting Empowerment in its fight against human trafficking.

Board member Annette Londquist said the event was started by a survivor—funds raised will support scholarships and grants for rescued youth.

CALM Zoo announced a 20-year master plan to upgrade exhibits and expand learning areas in Bakersfield—this plan includes an initial phase with a new entry plaza, updated parking and Education Hub conversion, while later phases will focus on enhanced animal exhibits, a rehabilitation center and community event spaces.

Bakersfield is set to invite proposals from business recruiters for its planned tech park to attract cutting-edge companies — the project is expected to boost local innovation.

A section of Truxtun Avenue between Chester Avenue and L Street will close at 5 p.m. Monday, September 15 for Hispanic Heritage Month festivities and the 14th Annual El Grito de Dolores featuring live music and food vendors.

The road will reopen around 9:30 p.m. — drivers are advised to use alternate routes.

Senator Melissa Hurtado said her bill passed the Legislature, which lets Kern County move forward with its oil permit rules.

The bill supports oil production and sends $7 million to help Kern County as gas prices are set to reach $8 a gallon by mid-2026.

California lawmakers passed Senate Bill 627—known as the No Secret Police Act—to bar local and federal officers from wearing masks on duty except in undercover or safety situations; the bill now heads to the governor’s desk and will take effect after his approval.

The Water Department announced that maintenance work will cause intermittent closures on the Kern River Parkway multi-use trail along Truxtun Lakes—starting Monday, September 15 until Friday, September 19.

Officials noted that the schedule may change if weather conditions turn bad.

Bakersfield officials are forming a task force to address a shortage of jail beds that hampers local policing.

The group will develop strategies to improve the city’s jail system.

The Kern County Board of Supervisors declared September as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month to raise awareness and support for those facing suicidal thoughts—Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services noted that over 30,000 calls were made to the Suicide Lifeline 988 last year and urged community members to seek help if needed.

Kern Medical is expanding its mobile health care service by taking clinics directly to patients in Kern County and is doubling down on reaching more communities soon.

A3 Sports Performance works with over 260 adaptive athletes in Kern County—training children and seniors with disabilities to build strength and compete on school teams.

The program partners with Kern Regional Center to help these athletes gain confidence and improve every day.

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.

Doormat Crafting Event at Cherry Acres

6-8 p.m. — Cherry Acres — $45 — Create a personalized doormat with festive designs to enhance your fall decor.

Paint Night at Cherry Acres

6 PM – 8 PM — Cherry Acres — $40 — Enjoy a guided painting session under the stars with snacks and drinks available.