Good morning, Bakersfield.

Air Force veteran Penny Martinez is leading a campaign to collect over 1,000 wreaths by November 28 for a display that will place more than 7,700 wreaths at the National Cemetery on December 13—donations and volunteer help will be needed to complete the patriotic effort.

Every newborn in California born after July 1, 2022 automatically receives a college savings account through the CalKIDS program, with a base deposit of $100 that families can boost to $175 by taking extra steps.

Parents open the account using the child’s birth certificate (each account has a unique identification number) while more than $2 million has been set aside for Kern County children (donations and tax credits help local schools).

Today, the Kern County Board of Education will vote on a proposal to display the Ten Commandments in six alternative education schools, a measure that has sparked a debate over its historical value versus concerns about the First Amendment.

Supporters say it highlights important aspects of history while critics warn it could open the door to future legal challenges.

Volunteers are needed for the 2026 Point-in-Time Count in Kern County to assess homelessness.

The count will occur on Jan. 28 from 3:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and requires volunteers to complete training—available virtually or in person—to help secure the resources needed.

Kern Medical has opened a new pediatric emergency department on the east side to treat children in medical emergencies—each treatment room has child-sized equipment—and the department is undergoing inspections before fully opening.

A patient saved by Dignity Health Memorial Hospital reunited with the care team in Bakersfield to express gratitude for the life-saving use of Impella technology during a life-threatening event.

Dr. Ajay Patel noted that bystander CPR was critical—highlighting the hospital's commitment to emergency care.

More than 100 doctors + nurses and other staff gathered outside Kern Medical on Wednesday morning to celebrate plans for a new pediatric emergency room that will open soon to serve local children.

The unit is expected to boost emergency care as Kern Medical prepares for its launch.

Bart, a five-month-old puppy rescued from the Bakersfield City Shelter two weeks ago, is now ready for adoption at SOS Dog Rescue's ranch in KRV—Robbie Miller said he is adapting well, and the rescue is also preparing upcoming spay and neuter appointments with SNIP Bus mobile clinic.

2025 CARS Tour West at Kevin Harvick's Kern Raceway

6:00 PM – 8:59 PM — Kevin Harvick's Kern Raceway — Cost information not specified — Witness thrilling racing as the CARS Tour West ends its 2025 season with exciting late model action.

Los Admirables De La Sierra Concert

8 PM — La Movida Night Club — Ticket prices available — Experience the vibrant rhythms and heartfelt melodies of traditional Mexican music.

Cinderella by World Ballet Company

7-8:30 p.m. — The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater — Tickets available — Experience the enchanting tale of Cinderella come to life with a stunning ballet performance.

Jefferson Starship Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Fox Theater — Tickets required — Experience the psychedelic rock sounds of Jefferson Starship live in Bakersfield.

Mississippi Valley Delta Devils vs. CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners Men's Basketball

1:00 – 2:30 PM — Icardo Center — Ticket prices vary — Witness an exciting college basketball showdown as the Delta Devils take on the Roadrunners.

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra - Home for the Holidays

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Dignity Health Arena, Theater and Convention Center — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience a festive musical celebration perfect for the holiday season.

Sustainable Mushroom Growing Class

6-8 p.m. — 3601 Eton St, Bakersfield, CA — Cost to be determined — Learn to grow your own delicious mushrooms sustainably using the bucket technique.

CSUB Holiday Concert

3-5 p.m. — Doré Theatre — $12 General Admission, $7 Seniors and Students, CSUB Students Free — Experience festive performances from local music groups in a theatric setting.

Gryffindor House Celebration

5-11:30 p.m. — Bakersfield Elks Lodge #266 — Ticket entry — An enchanting evening filled with courage, trivia, and a themed feast honoring Gryffindor's legacy.

Philip Labes and The Opener Screening

7-10 p.m. — Doré Theatre — Tickets available at the door — Catch the inspiring documentary followed by a live performance and autograph session with Philip Labes.