Saturday, September 27th, 2025
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 27th of September.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Longtime Bakersfield resident Marci Lingo, who retired to Boise in 2014, is returning next month to bring home the remains of a WWII fighter pilot from Kern County that have been kept away for 81 years—completing an unusual but loving task. The Bakersfield Californian
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Woolworth's Diner is a 75-year-old building on 19th Street and will reopen next month with a block party and ribbon cutting on October 25 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.—officials say the event is part of downtown Bakersfield's renewal effort. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ The Kern County Fair is in full swing, and fairgoers can enjoy music and sweet treats at Sweets by J near the main entrance on Main Street. Owner Erica Quintero said mini pancakes with two topping choices and fried Oreos, priced at $12, offer a fun spin for National Pancake Day + add extra cheer to the event. Bakersfield Now
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ The USDA forecasts beef production will drop 4% this year—and another 2% next—because rising costs from a shrinking herd and high consumer demand push prices higher. Local producers face record-high beef costs that affect shoppers across the region. Bakersfield Now
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Edison Middle School students are the only middle school competing at the Kern County Fair’s FFA barns, showing pigs, heifers, goats, rabbits, and guinea pigs to gain practical skills. Their adviser said the experience offers a head start for future FFA events—helping them build the expertise needed for high school competitions. 23ABC News
- ➤ Bakersfield College announced that Vice President of Student Services César Jiménez was named one of Bakersfield's 20 Under 40 on September 26—he is 39 and has built his career in service since arriving from Chicago in 2023 while actively supporting local students and community initiatives. His leadership at BC and work with programs like the Bakersfield East Rotary Club highlight his impact on education and community life. Bakersfield College
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ More than a year after the Borel Fire burned nearly 60,000 acres, the burnt land still risks flash floods, mudslides, and debris flow for nearby communities—meteorologists say heavy rain may lead to dangerous flooding while plants slowly grow back. 23ABC News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Kern County Board of Supervisors declared a local state of emergency in Randsburg after a heavy storm last week damaged roads, eight businesses, ten homes and the water system—local officials requested state disaster assistance under the California Disaster Assistance Act and will know within 60 days if up to 70% of repairs will be reimbursed. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Kern County will receive $8 million in state funding to expand its mental health and addiction programs—funds aimed at supporting Prop 36 patients—and keep more individuals in treatment instead of jail. Behavioral Health Supervisor Amber Lopez said the money will be used for intensive case management and housing support to help guide patients toward recovery. 23ABC News
- ➤ Assemblymember Stan Ellis announced he will not seek re-election when his term ends in 2026 and endorsed David Couch for the 2026 race—he made the decision during an interview with Eyewitness News' Michael Patterson. The 32nd District covers Kern and Tulare counties. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Today, the Transportation Department tightened rules on foreign commercial driver's licenses by requiring non-citizen drivers to show an employment-based visa and pass a federal immigration status check—this change comes after a nationwide audit and recent crashes. Local trucking managers raised concerns about how the new rule will be applied while state officials defend California’s strong safety record. Bakersfield Now
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Recent studies show that more than half of Hispanic adults are expected to develop diabetes, and local doctor Carlos Alvarez urges early screening, healthy eating, and regular exercise. Radio personality Enrique Galindo shared his personal experience with the disease—emphasizing the importance of dietary changes to prevent complications. 23ABC News
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Northlane Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — The Nile Theater — Tickets available — Experience Northlane's new music with their fresh lineup.
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Benise: Spanish Guitar and Dance Spectacular
7:30-9 p.m. — The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience Emmy Award-winning Benise in a fiery celebration of Spanish guitar and dance.
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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.
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