Good morning, Bakersfield.

The Mission at Kern County's executive director Carlos Baldovinos will stream live from a bench for 24 hours to raise awareness for homelessness, addiction, and mental health.

The stream begins at noon today—part of the Conversations on a Bench series that aligns with World Homeless Day.

Nimbus, a shy but sweet three-year-old Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua mix picked up near South High School in September, is available for adoption at Bakersfield Animal Care Center Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—the center will host a Trunk or Treat on Oct.

24 with waived adoption fees.

Bakersfield Changes, a nonprofit led by Jubera Dixon, will host a day-long basketball tournament on October 11 at the Dignity Health Sports Complex to offer mentorship and second chances to formerly incarcerated youth—teens aged 13–18 will compete as community members attend, volunteer, or donate.

The Open Door Network celebrated one year of helping domestic violence survivors in Delano by expanding services—partnering with police to provide legal help and restraining orders during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The center offers free and confidential support at 1317 Main Street Monday through Friday 8-5.

Trisha Gallo-Escobar hosted a Hispanic Heritage Month reading event at Prosperity Elementary where she donated 100 signed books and read with local leaders to promote literacy and cultural pride — a VIP reception followed at her White Lane McDonald's location.

The Mission at Kern County is launching its Conversations on a Bench initiative today in honor of World Homelessness Day to let locals share their views on homelessness—using the story of Larry Ross as a reminder of past struggles and future change.

Community members and local officials are encouraged to join the dialogue to help improve support for those in need.

The City of Bakersfield and its Recreation & Parks Department will host a community event on Friday, Oct.

10 to unveil a 118-foot mural by local artist Wendy Johnson at Saunders Park—featuring a new walking path, 15 newly planted trees, eight benches, and improved lighting from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The project is funded by a $250,000 Arts in California Parks grant and marks a significant upgrade to park amenities.

Marley's Mutts Animal Rescue in Tehachapi saved 948 dogs this year—helping many from Kern County shelters—while facing high vet bills and planning to raise $20,000 for needed care.

Operations manager Connor Long said the rescue will lower costs by scaling down its dog population and asks the community to support its mission by sharing on social media.

Two former softball players filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles County against Cal State Bakersfield on Tuesday, alleging that Head Coach Letty Olivarez and Assistant Coach James Davenport created a sexually charged environment between 2022 and today + that Davenport physically assaulted a student while other players reported harassment, and the university said it would remain transparent.

Kern County's agricultural sector generated $7.96 billion in 2024—8% lower than 2023—as citrus crops surpassed grapes for the first time in decades.

A new report showed Kern County crop values fell 8% in 2024 to $7.96 billion—this is less than Tulare County's $8.3 billion figure while Fresno County has not yet released its numbers.

Two former CSU Bakersfield softball players filed a lawsuit against the university, trustees and a former coach in Los Angeles County—details about the allegations have not yet been disclosed.

Bakersfield College’s Culinary Arts Department highlighted alumni success stories from May 2025.

Melody Charbonneau and Braydon Dibartolo work at an Oasis Resort in Death Valley, Ivan Valencia is at Disney World, Cheyenne Morris launched Bakersfield Brunch Box by hiring fellow alum Jazmin Quintero, Edgar Rodriguez joined NV Catering in Bakersfield, and Tanner Kirven accepted a seasonal sous chef role in Cape Cod—showing the program’s strong industry ties.

Today, the Kern County Board of Supervisors approved a plan by the Department of Human Services to partner with the Social Policy Institute for an external review of child welfare services after the tragic death of 8-year-old Genesis Mata, allegedly abused by her father and stepmother — the review will examine system documents and interviews to find gaps and recommend improvements.

La Buena Y La Mala & Que Chulada Live

8 p.m. — La Movida Night Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant regional music vibes of celebrated artist Alexis Garcilazo.

NOR's 70th Anniversary Festival

3-9 p.m. — Polo Park — Free entry — Celebrate seven decades of community spirit with games, live music, and a spectacular drone light show.

A-Z Foundation Group Golf Tournament

8 AM – 3 PM — Rio Bravo Country Club — Fundraising Scramble — Tee off for a good cause at this charity golf tournament.

Trick or Trot 5K

8-10 a.m. — Cherry Acres — $25 Early Registration — A spirited 5K with costume contests and a kid-friendly run at the pumpkin patch.

Halloween Pub Crawl in Bakersfield

4:30-9 p.m. — Jerry's Pizza & Pub — Tickets required — Embrace the spooky season with contests, prizes, and a night of haunted fun.

Black Jacket Symphony Fundraiser

4:00 – 5:30 PM — The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater — Benefitting the St. Paul Civic Symphony — Enjoy an evening of music supporting a great cause.

Whittier Poets vs. Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners Basketball Game

7:00 PM — Icardo Center — Check ESPN+ for broadcasting — Don’t miss the showdown as the Whittier Poets take on the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners in an exciting basketball matchup.

Women's Basketball Game vs. Fresno State

12 AM – 9 PM — Icardo Center — Ticket prices vary — Cheer for the home team in an exciting matchup against Fresno State.

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra - An American Salute

4:30-6 p.m. — Dignity Health Arena, Theater and Convention Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a patriotic musical tribute with festive marches and stirring classics honoring those who serve.