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🌱 Why thousands want cameras in Bakersfield’s special-education classrooms

Bakersfield, California Patch AM: a 5 min read

What's up Bakersfield! Let's start this morning right by getting caught up on what's going on around town. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • Why thousands want cameras in Bakersfield’s special-education classrooms
  • What’s really at stake in Bakersfield’s Kern River water fight?
  • How will the new City Lights center change east Bakersfield shopping?

Today's riddle: What Do u call a pig that knows karate? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Wednesday: Sunny and remaining warm, with a high of 98 and low of 66 degrees. 🌶 Hot!
  • Thursday: Sunny and toasty conditions, temps: high: 102, low: 69.
  • Friday: Sunny and toasty conditions, with a high of 105 and low of 73 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Petition for cameras in Bakersfield special-ed classrooms tops 5,000 signatures (bakersfieldnow.com) — Two Bakersfield parents are leading a fast-growing petition to install cameras in local special-education classrooms, arguing it would boost transparency and protect nonverbal students and staff. They’re pressing Bakersfield City School District for records on past incidents and are now seeking meetings with state lawmakers to explore a bill that could mandate cameras in self-contained classrooms.
   

2. Kern River charm offensive hits a bar at agency meeting (sjvwater.org) — Water advocates and agricultural interests are clashing over how much Kern River water should flow through Bakersfield, with a local group urging agencies to support a healthier, regularly running river. The Kern County Water Agency president argues farm water rights must be protected, while a lawsuit against the city over river operations heads toward key state Supreme Court arguments. The outcome could shape Bakersfield’s river, wildlife, and recreation for years.
   

3. City Lights shopping center in east Bakersfield reaches 90% leased ahead of spring opening (bakersfieldnow.com) — A major new shopping center is rapidly taking shape in east Bakersfield, with the City Lights project already 90% leased and aiming for a spring grand opening. National retailers and potential restaurants could bring new jobs, shopping options, and a long-missing community gathering spot to the east side. City officials say the development helps address years of underinvestment in the area.
   

4. United States, Mexico, Canada crash out of 2026 World Cup: Time to pick new sides for Bakersfield fans (kget.com) — Soccer fans in Bakersfield are regrouping after the U.S., Mexico, and Canada all exited the 2026 World Cup, leaving locals to choose new teams to cheer. Supporters interviewed in town are shifting their loyalties to countries like France, Spain, Norway, and Argentina. Many hope hosting the tournament will still inspire a new generation of Bakersfield players.
   

📸 Around Bakersfield

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Bakersfield

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    Thursday July 9
  • Paraprofessional Testing Date
    Greenfield Union Bakersfield, CA 93307
    9:00 am

📣 Bakersfield Shout Outs!

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🗓 Events Nearby

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Here's a picture for smiles.
    My boy is growing in a flash So, my son is about to be 4 months coming up real fast here. So far I have him doing a lot. He's already starting to… (Nextdoor Fanucchi Way)
  • Update: She has been found!!!
    She was running the streets the whole time! She’s been missing since Friday afternoon. Please keep your eyes out for her!! She is chipped and all… (Nextdoor Greenacres)
  • Califia Farms, LLC posted a job opening for Filler Operator, 3rd Shift in Bakersfield. Apply here.
  • The Kern Community College District posted a job opening for Accounting Technician II (One or More) in Bakersfield. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Bakersfield here.

Ok Bakersfield! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: A pork chop (Thank you Jody M. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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Stay in the loop with what's happening in Bakersfield

Never miss out on local news and events that matter to you.

Stay in the loop with what's happening in Bakersfield

Never miss out on local news and events that matter to you.