California Declares State of Emergency

The Bakersfield Brief! Everything you need to know, Briefly!

December 20, 2024

Good morning and happy Friday! We made it through another crazy week of holiday festivities and the shopping crowds. Go us!

Today’s brief includes:

  • 🐮Bird Flu News

  • 🚗New Laws Coming Soon

  • 🎄Christmas Poll - Results

  • 🎄Fun Fact Friday

  • 📆Upcoming Events

  • and more…

Enjoy!

Weather Forecast

Friday - 64°☀️ | Saturday - 70°☀️ | Sunday - 66°☀️

(I should have been a weather man. You can be wrong 99% of the time and still keep your job.)

Brief Update…

Bird Flu Outbreak

Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in California due to the nationwide bird flu outbreak, though Kern County officials emphasize the low risk to the general public. Most human cases (34 statewide) result from exposure to infected animals, primarily dairy cows, with no person-to-person transmission or deaths reported. Four cases in Kern County have been mild. Experts recommend precautions for those working with animals and assure that pasteurized dairy products remain safe. Symptoms resemble seasonal flu but may include conjunctivitis.

source: kget.com

Debate on Posting the Ten Commandments in Schools

The Kern County Board of Education is considering displaying the Ten Commandments in public schools, prompting legal debates. The Freedom From Religion Foundation opposes the proposal, citing Supreme Court precedent against such displays, while the National Association of Christian Lawmakers argues they are now constitutional. The board's jurisdiction is limited, applying only to community schools it governs. The issue remains unresolved, with further discussions scheduled for January 14.

source: turnto23.com

New Surgery Center

Kaiser Permanente Kern County has acquired a 13,000-square-foot facility in southwest Bakersfield to create a new surgery center. Purchased on December 18, 2024, the property will undergo renovations to meet advanced healthcare standards. The center is expected to open in early 2027.

New California Laws Starting January

Starting January 1, 2025, new California laws affecting drivers will take effect:

  1. Driver’s License Requirements (SB 1100): Job postings can only require a driver’s license if driving is a job function and alternatives aren't viable.

  2. Liability Insurance Coverage (SB 1107): Minimum auto insurance coverage increases to $30,000 for one injury/death, $60,000 for multiple, and $15,000 for property damage.

  3. Locked Door Loophole (SB 905): Prosecutors no longer need to prove car doors were locked to charge auto burglary; forcible entry suffices.

  4. Crosswalk Parking Rule (AB 413): Parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk is banned to enhance pedestrian safety.

source: foxla.com

Christmas Tree Poll Results

Do you prefer a real or fake Christmas tree?

62.5% of you said...🥁🥁… Real - it’s tradition!

Thanks for keeping it real and voting!

Fun Fact Friday

Americans buy upwards of 30 million Christmas trees a year.

1st Annual Christmas Pajama Takeover

Skip the mall and shop small for Downtown’s pajama takeover on Saturday, 12/21. Participating stores are getting in the spirit and offering discounts if shoppers arrive in their pajamas. Shoppers can grab a coffee at Dagney’s and Adventure Awaits Coffee, shop at Impact Skate Shop, A&B Naturals Eco Market, Encore Boutique, and other stores, then head to Jerry’s Pizza for some food. Get your last-minute shopping in and have some fun in your pajamas with friends.

Events

Christmas Events All Month

Let us know about events coming up!

Sports

Scoreboard

Thursday Night Football (NFL):

  • Los Angeles Chargers defeated Denver Broncos 34 to 27

Future Holiday Reminders

  • 5 Days until Christmas

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