Bakersfield Student Leaders Stand Against Drug Use at Annual Conference

Kern County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (KERNBHRS) recently held its annual Drug-Free Youth Summit where more than 250 youth leaders from 24 schools across Kern County came together to stand against drugs. These student representatives not only worked on strategies to help combat drug and alcohol use, but also plan impactful activities for Red Ribbon Week, held October 23 through 31, with the theme “Life is a Movie, Film Drug Free.”

The Summit’s keynote speaker, NASA Special Agent David Daniels-Watanabe, motivated students to lead with resilience and vision. The attendees also worked together to learn tools to help prevent substance abuse and plan drug-free initiatives in their own schools.

For more information on Red Ribbon Week, visit www.redribbon.org. To read more about the Summit visit www.news.kern.org.

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The Open-Door Network’s Art Installation Revealed

The Open Door Network recently announced the reveal of the “The Butterfly Collection,” a 16-piece art installation created and donated by the young artists, Adoniah (8) and Kosta (10) Hronis, which will transform the hallways of the main office that supports clients engaged in therapy services. The young Hronis artists have created this collection that features a series of thought-provoking artwork exploring themes of hope, renewal, and community.  Through a blend of vibrant colors, textures, and multimedia elements, the installation aims to reflect the journey of individuals supported by The Open Door Network services.

“’The Butterfly Collection’ is a testament to the impact that artwork can have on transforming a space and those overcoming adversity. These young artists have showcased in their amazing pieces the enduring spirit of resilience within the clients we serve within our doors,” says Lauren Skidmore, CEO of The Open Door Network. “We were honored that the Hronis family partnered with us to transform a space that clients visit daily. Before just blank walls wrapped around the halls where clients come for therapy services, now we can offer hope and encouragement as they walk in for services.”

For more information, please visit www.opendoorhelps.org.

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CSUB Students Receive Hispanic Excellence Scholarships

California State University Bakersfield students receive $52,000 in scholarships at a recent ceremony. The Hispanic Excellence Scholarship Fund recently awarded approximately 30 students from low-income backgrounds $2,000 each to help pay for college.

CSUB President Emeritus Tomas A. Arciniega established the Hispanic Excellence Scholarship in 1984 to increase college access for underrepresented students who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential.  Since its inception, $3.1 million has been awarded to about 1,800 recipients.

For more information, please visit www.news.csub.edu.

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Kern County Sheriff’s Office Holds National Night Out-Trunk or Treat

Kern County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) will hold its annual National Night Out-Trunk or Treat event at Stamler Park, Bakersfield on Thursday, October 17 from 5 to 8 p.m. The event will include a trunk or treat with deputies, demonstrations from specialized units, free game, a tour of air support, and a petting zoo.

The National Night Out campaign is a national event that aims to build community partnerships and make citizens more comfortable with local police departments. 

For more information, please visit www.kernsheriff.org.

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Kern Economic Development Foundation Wins International Economic Development Award

Kern Economic Development Foundation (KEDF) was recently awarded the 2024 Excellence in Economic Development award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). This recognition was given due to KEDF’s exemplary work in the Talent & Retention category.

The talent retention and workforce quality initiative, Kern Intern Connections (KIC Starting Careers), pairs recent graduates from the Kern High School District’s STEM-based and work-ready programs with the region’s employers for paid internship opportunities. Critical KICK supporters include Bank of America, which contributed $100,000 to fund internships, and Chevron which provided transportation stipends for the interns.  Other program sponsors include: PG&E, Bank of the Sierra, and Tri Counties Bank.

“Kern Intern Connections is a vital part of Kern Economic Development Foundation’s mission to prepare the workforce, particularly in STEM-based careers,” says Christina Scrivner, KEDF Chair. “Receiving the Excellence in Economic Development award from the IDEC honors the intentional efforts of our community partners and team.”

For more information about KIC, please visit www.KernIntern.com.

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Goat Yoga at Cherry Acres

What’s better than a refreshing yoga class in the morning? A goat yoga class. Every Saturday in October, you can have a unique, outdoor goat yoga experience at a local pumpkin patch. At Cherry Acres, 4011 Wegis Avenue, Bakersfield, Goat Yoga class led by instructor Reyna Carreno will be from 8 to 9 a.m. on the following Saturdays:  October, 5, 12, 19, and 26.

Reservations are required for goat yoga and can be made on the pumpkin patch’s website www.cherry-acres.com. The website also details fun family events and special classes that will be held during the season.