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This Week in the AV: Events, Local Gems & Summer Fun
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This Week in the AV: Events, Local Gems & Summer Fun
From Palmdale movie nights to Lancaster concerts, Charlie Brown Farms, Acton history, and local business spotlights — here’s what’s happening around the Antelope Valley.
Antelope Valley Insider Team

Antelope Valley Insider Team

Jul 7, 2026

Trivia Question❓

In Acton, California, there is a popular landmark known as "Vasquez Rocks," which has been featured in numerous movies and television shows. One of the most notable appearances of Vasquez Rocks is in a popular science fiction television series that follows the adventures of the Starship Enterprise. What is the name of this television series?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Hi. I'm on the list. Yeah that list... the list nobody wants to find themselves on at the SCV animal care center. It's a scary place to be for such a good boy like me.

 

My name is Clyde. I was found on the side of the road traveling with two dog friends who have since been adopted and now I'm totally urgent at a crowded shelter. I'm a funny, have medium energy, and I'm a very affectionate and playful husky boy. I'm three years young and I'm great with other large dogs! I'm even kenneled with them.

 

Speaking of my kennel, the shelter staff says to take it easy on your first impression of me, because while I like to bark at first, it's only an act! When I get out of the kennel I'm a total gem and you'll love me!

 

Please come meet me. Once my time is up, my life is up.

 

Can you help?! Scv animal care center 11-5 Monday-Saturday. Please don't wait. Come tomorrow. No appt needed. Just walk in and ask for me, Clyde!

California drivers are being asked to retake the written DMV test after receiving a letter that stated irregularities.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) sent out notices to approximately 27,000 drivers who had recently passed their written tests, stating that their exams may have been compromised.

The DMV stated that the irregularities might have resulted in some drivers not receiving the correct test booklet or having their answers potentially compromised.

Affected drivers are being asked to retake the test to ensure that they have a valid driver's license.

The DMV is offering free retests to those who received the letter.

The agency has also stated that it is working to ensure the integrity of the testing process and that they take any allegations of misconduct seriously. The DMV did not provide specific details about the nature of the irregularities, but they have confirmed that they are investigating the matter.

The agency has stated that the irregularities were discovered during an internal audit, prompting them to send out the letters to affected individuals.

For those who need to retake the test, the DMV has advised that they should schedule an appointment at their local DMV office.

The agency has also stated that they are working to minimize any inconvenience to affected drivers and that they are committed to ensuring the accuracy and fairness of the testing process.

Drivers who have questions about the situation are encouraged to contact the DMV for more information.
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The Trump administration's efforts to auction off airwaves could threaten the existence of local TV stations in California, including in the Los Angeles area.

These stations provide crucial local news and emergency information to communities.

The upcoming auction is part of a plan to make more spectrum available for wireless services, which some argue will benefit consumers.

However, opponents believe that this plan will harm local news outlets by forcing them to change channels or share airwaves with other stations, potentially leading to a loss of viewership and revenue.

As a result, some TV stations are fighting back by launching a campaign to raise awareness about the issue and urging the Federal Communications Commission to reconsider its plan.

The stations argue that local news outlets are essential for communities, especially during emergencies such as wildfires or public health crises.

The article highlights the importance of local news coverage in serving communities and the potential impacts of the upcoming spectrum auction on California's TV stations.

The battle between the Trump administration's plan to auction off airwaves and the efforts of local TV stations to stay on the air is ongoing, with the outcome still uncertain.
Read More...

This week’s sponsor spotlight is HyperLocal Solutions in Palmdale, a local business growth company helping small businesses get found, capture more leads, and build better follow-up systems.

 

HyperLocal Solutions works with local service businesses, medical practices, retailers, and community-based companies that need more than just a website. Their focus is helping businesses identify where they may be losing customers — from weak local visibility and missed leads to poor follow-up, reviews, reputation gaps, and inconsistent marketing.

 

Their services include local visibility systems, lead capture and conversion systems, CRM and follow-up automation, review and reputation growth, newsletters, owned audience systems, and practical AI business automation.

 

For Antelope Valley businesses, HyperLocal Solutions is built around a simple idea: find the leaks, fix the gaps, and create systems that help local companies grow smarter.

 

Website: HyperLocal-Solutions.com
Phone: 661-403-5269


Best for: Local businesses that want more visibility, more leads, better follow-up, and measurable growth.

Click here to visit HyperLocal Solutions

Palmdale Friday Night Market

Event Details:

 

📅 Friday, July 10, 2026

⏰ 5–9 PM

📍 Sam Yellen Park, Palmdale

Entertainment: Bag of Tricks ~ Classic Rock

 

Looking for a fun way to kick off your weekend? 🎉🌴

 

The Palmdale Friday Night Market brings the community together for an evening of shopping, food, entertainment, and family-friendly fun. This popular local gathering features a wide variety of vendors, local businesses, food trucks, and live entertainment in a vibrant outdoor atmosphere.

 

Visitors can browse unique products from local makers, discover small businesses, enjoy delicious food, and spend quality time with friends and family while supporting the local community.

 

Whether you're looking for a great meal, unique shopping opportunities, live music, or simply a fun night out, the Palmdale Friday Night Market offers something for everyone.

Join us for our 2026 Summer Concert Series!

Thursday evenings, 6 p.m.
on the Bandstand Stage, Ehrlich Avenue and The BLVD

 

Summertime simply would not be the same without the Summer Concert Series presented by Toyota of Lancaster! The Summer Concert Series is held on the Bandstand Stage on Thursday evenings in conjunction with The BLVD Market.

 

Come prepared for a great time by bringing your own lawn chairs and dancing shoes! Dine al fresco on the Don Sal Cocina & Cantina patio or at one of the many BLVD restaurants. 

 

Thursday July 9 2026 come see Metropolis Man ~ Folk  Soul * Rock

Charlie Brown Farms is one of Littlerock’s most recognizable roadside stops and a true Antelope Valley bucket-list destination. Located along Pearblossom Highway, this quirky local landmark blends farm stand, gift shop, snack stop, souvenir store, and old-school roadside attraction all in one place.

 

Known for its famous date shakes, handcrafted shakes, funnel cakes, barbecue, jerky, fudge, nostalgic candy, vintage toys, collectibles, and unusual gifts, Charlie Brown Farms is the kind of place where visitors can stop for a quick treat and end up wandering around much longer than planned.

 

Part of its charm is the variety. One minute you’re looking at fresh produce or specialty snacks, and the next you’re browsing retro toys, oddities, souvenirs, and California desert memorabilia. It has that classic “only in the Antelope Valley” feel that makes it a favorite stop for families, road-trippers, locals, and anyone exploring the Littlerock/Pearblossom side of the AV.

 

Whether you’re craving a date shake, looking for a fun place to take out-of-town guests, or just want a nostalgic roadside stop with personality, Charlie Brown Farms is worth keeping on your local radar.

 

Location: 8317 Pearblossom Hwy, Littlerock, CA 93543


Known for: Famous date shakes, funnel cakes, jerky, fudge, vintage toys, gifts, and roadside nostalgia


Good for: Families, visitors, road trips, quick treats, local gift shopping, and weekend stops


Why locals should know it: It is one of the Antelope Valley’s most unique and recognizable local attractions.

Click here to visit Sponsor Spot
The article discusses the recent celebration in the Antelope Valley region to honor the graduating class of 2026.

The event was hosted by local community members, leaders, and organizations who came together to show their support and celebrate the accomplishments of the young graduates.

The celebration featured speeches, music, and other forms of entertainment to commemorate the achievements of the class of 2026. Various speakers took the stage to offer words of encouragement and inspiration to the graduates as they prepare to take the next steps in their academic and professional journeys.

The event aimed to not only recognize the hard work and dedication of the students but also to demonstrate the community's commitment to helping them succeed in the future.

The celebration served as a way for the graduates to feel appreciated and supported as they transition into the next phase of their lives. Additionally, the article highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of young people in the community.

By coming together to honor the graduating class of 2026, the Antelope Valley region demonstrated its investment in the success and well-being of its youth.

The event served as a reminder of the importance of supporting and uplifting young individuals as they strive to reach their full potential. Overall, the article portrays a heartwarming and positive celebration in the Antelope Valley region that focused on celebrating the accomplishments of the graduating class of 2026 and providing them with the encouragement and support they need to pursue their future goals.
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Help Us Create The Ultimate Summer Playlist!

Tell us what songs you're loving this summer — from today's hits to nostalgic favorites. Share your favorite and help us crown the Song of the Summer.

 

Click Here

The Original Acton Market: Small-Town Flavor in the Heart of Acton

The Original Acton Market is one of those local stops that helps give Acton its small-town character. Located in its original location, the market brings together everyday groceries, a meat market, deli, Mediterranean food items, fresh produce, a pizza counter, and homemade food served with a neighborhood feel.

 

It is more than a quick place to grab the basics. For many locals, it is the kind of market where you can stop in for groceries, pick up a deli sandwich, grab pizza, or find something fresh for dinner without leaving town.

 

What makes the Original Acton Market stand out is its mix of convenience and personality. It has the feel of an old-school community market while still offering the practical items people need during the week. The market describes itself as a general market with a small-town feeling, and that is exactly the role it plays in Acton.

 

Locals have also praised the market for its friendly staff, well-stocked shelves, deli sandwiches, pizza, and Friday fish and chips, making it a reliable stop for both everyday errands and easy meal nights.

Whether you live in Acton, are passing through on Sierra Highway, or want to support a true local business, the Original Acton Market is worth keeping on your radar.

 

Why locals should know it: It is a true Acton neighborhood market with groceries, deli items, pizza, fresh food, and small-town service.

 fresh produce, and supporting local business.

 

Local Bites angle: A small-town market that doubles as a convenient food stop — exactly the kind of place that gives Acton its local flavor.

 

Hours: Monday - Sunday 7AM - 10PM

3638 Smith Ave. Acton, CA 93510

661-441-0455

49er Saloon: A Historic Acton Stop with Old West Roots

Few places in Acton carry as much local history as The ’49er Saloon. Serving the Acton area since 1870, this long-standing local landmark traces its roots back to the town’s early mining days, when gold miners, prospectors, ranchers, and travelers moved through the Sierra Pelona foothills.

 

Acton itself was founded in the 1800s by gold miners and was named after Acton, Massachusetts. Two of the area’s best-known mines were the Red Rover Mine and the Governor Mine, the latter owned by California Governor Henry T. Gage. At one point, Governor Gage even considered relocating the California State Capital to Acton — a bold idea that, obviously, never quite made it past the dream stage.

 

Mining for gold, copper, and titanium continued in the area into the early 1900s, helping shape Acton’s frontier identity. In 1870, John F. Duerhen, recognized as Acton’s first resident, opened the original ’49er Saloon to serve miners and prospectors looking for a place to rest, eat, drink, and trade stories. Duerhen’s son-in-law, Richard E. Nickels, later became Acton’s second resident and helped lay the groundwork for the town Acton would become.

 

Today, The ’49er Saloon continues that tradition in a more modern way — thankfully, with indoor plumbing now included. Set against the rugged Sierra Pelona Mountain backdrop, it remains a place where locals, ranching families, travelers, and city folks wandering in off “the trail” can stop for a drink, a meal, and a dose of Acton history.

 

Part restaurant, part saloon, and part local landmark, The ’49er Saloon is the kind of place that reminds you Acton is not just a freeway exit — it is a community with deep roots, frontier character, and stories worth preserving.

 

Why locals should know it: The ’49er Saloon is one of Acton’s most historic gathering places, connecting today’s community with the town’s mining and ranching past.

 

Good for: Casual meals, drinks, local history, weekend stops, out-of-town guests, and anyone who appreciates an old-school Acton landmark.

 

Local Insider Take: If you want a place with real Acton character, this is it — history on the walls, mountains in the background, and a story that goes back more than 150 years.

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
Star Trek