January 2014
Providing leadership for a healthy business community page 16
Annual Gala & Board Installation January 23, 2014
Building a Strong Economy Chairman’s Message.................................... 1 Chamber Welcomes New Board.................. 8 Advocacy/Economic Impact Sponsorships... 11 High Speed Rail Opportunity..................... 15 Representing the Interests of Business with Government Chamber Revises Scorecard........................ 4 Aquahelio presentation at GRC................. 13 Promoting Our Community Chairman’s Circle Focus.............................. 2 “My Take” on Leadership Bakersfield......... 5 Deductible Chamber Dues........................... 5 Renewing Members................................... 10 Welcome New Members............................ 11 Member News............................................ 11 Ribbon Cuttings......................................... 12 Beautiful Bakersfield Nominations............ 14 Providing Business Education & Networking Opportunities Chamber Launches “Strictly Business”....... 1 Chamber Revamps Committees................... 3 Committee Reports...................................... 6 Social Media Therapy.................................. 6 Labor and Employment Law Forum............ 7 2014 Employment Notice Poster............... 13 Annual Gala............................................... 16
The Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to: • Building a Strong Economy • Providing Business Education & Networking Opportunities • Promoting Our Community • Representing the Interests of Business with Government
A Message from the 2014 Chairman of the Board I
would like to wish everyone a successful and enlightened 2014. Also I would like to thank our Chamber members and community for your tremendous support this past year. With your collaboration and encouragement, our Chamber has grown stronger and will remain the central business resource for our members. As a local architectural firm of 20 years and a member of the Chamber, we have come to understand the important role the Chamber brings to our business community. Supporting our members both large and small with educational and marketing opportunities are essential endeavors of the Chamber. From celebrating initial milestones with ribbon cutting ceremonies to advocating policy through our political advocacy, the Chamber is a business voice sought out beyond the city limits of Bakersfield. Cindy Pollard, president and CEO, and her capable staff are poised to heighten the Chamber’s vital responsibilities to our community. As we are all forced to reshape and reinvent our business models, rest assured the Chamber is working alongside our members to confront important issues. The Chamber will strive to make this year of challenge and change one of knowledge and accomplishment as well. We look forward to implementing programs that will support our businesses and help realize our
collective success. I invite you to join us and help grow our Chamber and continue to strengthen our amazing community. Sincerely,
Danny E. Ordiz 2014 Chairman of the Board Principal, Ordiz-Melby Architects, Inc.
The Chamber Launches “Strictly Business” New Online Live Stream Show Debuts January 6 The Chamber is launching a new live stream
broadcast program, Strictly Business, airing at Bakersfield.com. This new one-hour program airing on Mondays, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., and sponsored by The Law Offices of Young
Wooldridge, San Joaquin Community Hospital, Hydrogen Energy California (HECA) and Chevron, is aimed at boosting local business and economic development. Story continues on page 3...
2014 Chairman’s Circle
Business Supporting Business
Advance Beverage Company Aera Energy LLC Barbich Hooper King Dill Hoffman Braun Electric Company, Inc. Bright House Networks Brown Armstrong Accountants California State University, Bakersfield Carney’s Business Technology Center Castle & Cooke California, Inc. Chevron Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Citizens Business Bank Daniells, Phillips, Vaughan & Bock Dignity Health- Mercy & Memorial Hospitals Dowling Aaron Incorporated Ensign U.S. Drilling, CA Golden Empire Transit District Gregory D. Bynum & Associates, Inc. Hall Ambulance Service Jim Burke Ford Lincoln Kaiser Permanente Kern County Kern Community College District Kern Community Foundation Kern Schools Federal Credit Union KGET-TV 17 Klein, DeNatale, Goldner et al Law Offices of Young Wooldridge LLP McKee Electric Company Mid State Development Corporation Motor City Auto Center Occidental of Elk Hills, Inc. Ordiz-Melby Architects, Inc. Pacific Gas and Electric Company Rabobank, N.A. San Joaquin Community Hospital Southern California Gas Company State Farm Insurance Companies Stinsons Stria Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino Taft College Foundation Tejon Ranch Company TelePacific Communications Tel-Tec Security Systems, Inc. The Bakersfield Californian Valley Republic Bank Wells Fargo Bank
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Chamber Expands Member Exposure with New Live Stream Broadcast! H
appy New Year to all our members! On behalf of the board, our volunteers and the staff, I wish you the best of health, happiness and prosperity in 2014. We have some exciting things ahead—including a rebuilding of a couple of our committees, the return of an all-new “Mixer,” and the launch of Strictly Business, the one-hour live stream video broadcast airing on Bakersfield.com, Mondays, at 10:00 a.m., beginning January 6. This new program will allow us to bring our members, and the broader business community, news, information, tips, tools and resources to grow your business and your employees and enhance your own professional development. Strictly Business will also provide additional marketing and advertising opportunities that specifically target the business audience. (See story for sponsorship and advertising information on page 3.) We are also starting the year with a Chairman’s Circle that is bigger than ever, with the addition of Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino to the other new members we introduced last month, we stand at 45 total members. And lastly, as we move through the year, I encourage you to get the most out of your Chamber membership by discovering some of the little known benefits! Did you know that you can buy our mailing list? That’s right; you can direct mail to more than 1,200 member business reps for just $125. A great idea for your special events or announcements. Or did you know that our conference rooms are available for rent at the lowest prices this side of free? Depending on the room and how long you need it, you’ll pay between $25 and $150 for the entire day. That’s right. Surprisingly low and just for members. A great place to hold employment interviews and all-hands meetings. We’re looking forward to working with you in the coming year, so please let us know how we can help you! In the meantime... all the best,
Chairman's Circle Focus Stria is a document management solutions company headquartered in Bakersfield, CA. Since 2005, Stria has converted millions of paper documents into fully searchable, digital images. Stria can assist your organization in selecting the EMR, DMS or cloud solution that is best for your business.
www.stria.com
METRO Business Journal is the official publication of the
Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce
1725 Eye Street • PO Box 1947 •Bakersfield, CA 93303 Phone (661)-327-4421 • Fax (661) 327-8751 www.bakersfieldchamber.org • www.bakersfieldadvocacy.org The Chamber of Commerce President/CEO has the sole right to refuse any advertisement in any Chamber publication.
Providing Business Education and Networking Opportunities
Chamber Hosts Business Show
Advertising Packages: • 100 spots, 2 per week for year $5000 • 50 spots, 1 per week for year $2500 • 25 spots, 1 per week January - June or July - December $1250 • Single spots will only be sold if they remain after packages are sold $50
Story continued from page 1... The show will feature interviews and conversations with business experts providing news and information, tips, tools and resources to help businesses and their employees grow. It will provide news and analysis on issues out of Washington, at the state and here locally. The show will also focus on Chamber and business related community events and activities. Strictly Business is expected to reach an audience of more than 39,000, who listen primarily at work, during the 52-week run of the schedule; and will provide sponsors and advertisers a very targeted business-to-business marketing and advertising opportunity. “Strictly Business will allow the Chamber to expand its reach beyond our 1,300 member businesses to the broader business community,” said Lauren Smoot, manager of marketing and communications for the Chamber. “We have found that through the years, we have
done a solid job of communicating with our members, but as we look to provide additional opportunities for visibility for our members, we can add value to their membership by giving them exposure to thousands of other potential clients.” There is one sponsorship opportunity currently open and several advertising packages available. If you are interested in sponsoring or advertising in the program, contact Lauren Smoot at (661) 327-4421 or email lsmoot@bakersfieldchamber.org For more information about the show, or to suggest a story idea, contact Cindy Pollard at (661) 327-4421 or email cpollard@bakersfieldchamber.org
Chamber Revamps Committees in 2014 I
n an effort to better serve its members, the Chamber is revamping a number of committees to provide the member-driven programs and services that are important to its members’ success. Several individuals have graciously agreed to chair the committees for 2014 and many are seeking members with fresh new ideas and a commitment to helping grow the Chamber
and bring impactful programming to all its members. We are still seeking a chair and vice chair for the Ambassador/Mixer Committee. “Mixers provide an important networking opportunity for our members and we are looking for people who can help deliver mixers that showcase local businesses and what they can offer and provide quality connections for
We thank these 2014 Committee Chairs Ambassador/Mixer Committee—chair and vice chair open Business Development Committee Chair- Kelly Walters, San Joaquin Valley College Vice Chair- Julian Herrera, Continental Labor and Staffing Energy Committee Chair- Les Clark, Independent Oil Producers’ Agency Leadership Bakersfield Chair- Kathy Miller, Aera Energy LLC Leadership Bakersfield Vice Chair- Dustin Dodgin, Klein De Natale Goldner et al Youth Leadership Bakersfield Chair- Michele Newell, Aera Energy LLC Vice Chair- Colleen Dillaway, California State University, Bakersfield Beautiful Bakersfield Chair- Casey Knaak, United Way of Kern County Government Review Council- Leslie Golich, Kaiser Permanente
those who attend,” said Cindy Pollard, president and CEO of the Chamber. “Ambassadors are a vital part of the Chamber and we are looking to grow this committee into an exciting opportunity for those who are the eyes, ears and true believers in the community,” added Pollard. “One thing we hear over and over again is how valued and important our members feel when our ambassadors attend ribbon cuttings and ground breakings to support them. We want to continue that in a bigger and better way for 2014 and make it fun and rewarding for our ambassadors as well.” If you’re interested in helping the Chamber move in this exciting new direction, please give us a call at (661) 327-4421.
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Representing the Interests of Business with Government
Chamber Revises 2013 Voter Scorecard The Greater Bakersfield Chamber of
Commerce has revised its 2013 Voter Scorecard on Key Legislation for the first year of the 2013-2014 session. “After reviewing the votes more closely, we realized that we had penalized our representatives for their vote on SCA 3, which had changed significantly between the time we opposed it and when it made it to the floor
in the Senate and Assembly for a vote,” said Cindy Pollard, president and CEO of the Chamber. SCA 3, one of the priority bills tracked by the Chamber, was amended late in the session removing the “parcel tax” language opposed by the Chamber. The corrected scorecard now shows a 100% voter rating for Assemblymember Shannon
How They Voted
Grove, and Senators Fuller and Vidak. Assemblymember Rudy Salas’ rating is 85.7%. “Our elected representatives know what’s important to help drive the local economy and their strong records demonstrate their commitment to doing so,” added Pollard.
Chamber Position
Grove AD 32
Salas AD 30
Fuller SD 18
Vidak SD 16
Status
AB 182 (Buchanan; D- Alamo) Bonds: school districts and community college districts. Deletes the authority for school districts and community college districts to issue general obligation (GO) bonds under the Government Code and establishes additional parameters for GO bond issuances under the Education Code.
Support
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Law
AB 227 (Gatto; D- Burbank) Proposition 65: enforcement. Stops drive-by lawsuits. Protects small businesses from drive-by lawsuits by providing a 14-day right to cure for allegations of a failure to post a Prop 65 warning.
Support
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Law
AB 300 (Perea; D- Fresno) Telecommunications: prepaid mobile telephony services: state surcharge and fees: local charges collection. Establishes a new point of sale system for collecting and remitting specified fees, surcharges and taxes applicable to prepaid mobile telephony services.
Support
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Veto
AB 880 (Gomez; D- Los Angeles) Medi-Cal program costs: large employer responsibility— Creates the Employer Responsibility for Medi-Cal Cost of Employees Act of 2013. Requires large employers, employing 500 or more employees, to pay a penalty, as specified if their employees, who work more than eight hours per week, are enrolled in Medi-Cal.
Oppose
No
Abs
*
*
Dead
AB 976 (Toni Atkins, D-San Diego) Coastal resources: California Coastal Act of 1976: enforcement: penalties. Coastal Commission Enforcement. Creates a bounty hunter provision and creates a conflict of interest by allowing the Commission to impose a civil penalty and retain it to augment its budget.
Oppose
No
No
No
No
Dead
AB 1257 (Bocanegra; D- Pacoima) Energy: State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission: natural gas. Requires the California Energy Commission (CEC) to prepare a report every four years regarding the benefits and uses of natural gas.
Support
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Law
Oppose
No
No
*
*
Dead
SB 4 (Fran Pavley, D-Agoura Hills) Oil and gas: hydraulic fracturing. Future Moratorium on Fracking. Threatens future oil and gas production in the state, which would raise energy prices for businesses and individuals alike, by threatening to impose a temporary moratorium on the use of hydraulic fracturing if the state’s Natural Resources Agency does not complete a study of the practice and promulgate regulations by January 1, 2015.
Oppose
No
Abs
No
No
Law
SB 7 (Steinberg; D-Sacramento) Public works: charter cities. Would prohibit a charter city from receiving or using state funds for a construction project if the city has a charter provision or ordinance that authorizes a contractor to not comply with state prevailing wage law on any public works contract.
Oppose
No
Yes
No
No
Law
California Assembly and Senate
AB 1323 (Mitchell; D- Los Angeles) Oil and gas: hydraulic fracturing. Prohibits hydraulic fracturing until (1) a report prepared by a multi-stakeholder advisory committee is completed and (2) the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency and the Secretary for Environmental Protection Agency make a determination as to whether, and under what conditions, hydraulic fracturing is permitted within the state.
% of Voting in Accordance with Chamber Positions Voting Record: Yes - Yes on the Floor No - No on the Floor Abs - Abstaining, Absent * - No vote recorded
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100%
85.7%
100%
100%
Bill Status: Law - Signed into Law Dead - Bill Died Veto - Vetoed by the Governor Revised December 12, 2013
Members Promoting Our Community
“My Take” on Leadership Bakersfield written by Nancy Pollard, Barbich Hooper King Dill Hoffman Accountancy Corp. “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” John Quincy Adams
W
hat combines wonderful learning experiences, enhancement of team building skills, fun adventures, and is all facilitated by more than 65 (to date) dedicated Kern County business and community leaders and advisors? It’s the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Leadership Bakersfield program. For the past four months, Kern County businesses and non-profit organizations have opened their doors and welcomed with open arms the 29 members of the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2014. In September, class members concentrated on getting to know each other, learning about leadership styles and reviewing our personal leadership styles, and hearing from other community leaders about their successes and challenges in leading their organizations. In October, we toured several health and human services businesses and nonprofit organizations. In November, we were exposed to the “Communications through the Media” and how to get the best results
Chamber Dues Deductible as a Business Expense As 2014 begins, along with the task
of preparing tax returns for 2013, the Chamber reminds members that 93% of their dues investment is deductible as a business expense. The portion of your membership dollars directly attributed to lobbying or influencing legislative or administrative action is not deductible as a business expense for tax purposes.
from your public relations presentations and announcements. Our class was divided into four teams and each selected a local organization to help. Each Team will develop a plan, budget, and work schedule to complete a project by June 2014 which will enhance and help the selected organizations to further their missions and assist citizens of the Greater Bakersfield area. During the past 3 months, the four teams met outside of class time to select and plan their projects. During our most recent session, class members had a walking tour of the Bakersfield downtown arts district. We visited the “Majestic” Fox Theater and admired the beautiful architecture of downtown buildings and green spaces (next time you’re near the corner of 19th and K Streets, look up toward the top of the Kress Building facade at the oranges and ornate brick work--absolutely gorgeous). We visited the Mill House at Mill Creek; the Sister City Gardens area; the Bakersfield Museum of Art; spent some time at Trouts in Oildale, to learn the history and experience the Bakersfield Sound; and even spent a little time at the Spotlight Theatre, where we had a great holiday treat of two short performances.
The long, fun-filled days of leadership training, camaraderie, and exposure to local nonprofit organizations and for-profit businesses provides an awareness of the beautiful aspects of our community which will help the members of the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2014 to become leaders who not only concentrate on their chosen careers, but are also immersed in the community and activities of the Greater Bakersfield area. I can’t express enough thanks to all of the Chamber staff, community business leaders, and advisors who lead our class each month. The hours they spend planning and arranging for our activities, and then accompanying us during the day, are truly appreciated.
How much would you pay for 1,300 business prospects? Sorry, they’re only available with membership!* Memberships starting at just
*And that doesn’t include the thousands of prospects we deliver each and every day through Facebook, LinkedIn and our Member2Member advertising. Isn’t it about time you tapped into the most targeted business audience in town? Join the Chamber today!
$355 per year!
661.327.4421 METRO 5
Providing Business Education and Networking Opportunities
Committee Reports Ambassador/Mixer Committee
Heather Pennella, Buck Owens Production Company Inc. - Chair This committee did not meet in December. Staff contact: Michelle Watson (temporary)
Beautiful Bakersfield Committee
Casey Knaak, United Way of Kern County Chair The committee met at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton, the site for this year’s event, to plan logistics for the reception. Nomination forms will be available February 1, 2014 for projects that were completed during the 2013 calendar year. Staff contact: Jean Scheiber
Business Development Committee
Kelly Walters, San Joaquin Valley College Chair This committee did not meet in December. Staff contact: Michelle Watson (temporary)
Chamber Palooza Committee
This committee did not meet in December Staff contact: Michelle Watson (temporary)
Energy Committee
Les Clark, Independent Oil Producers Association - Chair This committee did not meet in December. Staff contact: Michelle Watson (temporary)
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Governmental Review Council
Leslie Golich, Kaiser Permanente - Chair GRC held a planning meeting to discuss goals, objectives and possible issues on the horizon for 2014. Ag and oil issues in Kern County, collaborating with the Farm Bureau and exploring avenues in education to address nursing, IT and GIS training needs emerged as areas of interest to help Kern County remain competitive with other counties and retain the talent here. Committee members provided great feedback and ideas for 2014. Staff contact: Leticia Flores
Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Council
Kathy Miller, Aera Energy LLC - Chair The December class day was packed with information around the Arts and Culture the Bakersfield community has to offer. Local landscape artist David Gordon led the class on a downtown walking tour, highlighting special elements of landscape and architectural design. Visits were made to the historical Fox Theatre, the Bakersfield Museum of Art and renowned Trout’s Night Club. Advisory Chairs Zane Smith, Boys & Girls Club of Kern and Robin Paggi, Worklogic HR executed a very informative day. Special thanks to Boys and Girls Club of Kern for supporting the day. Staff Contact: Tonya Sterling
Youth Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Council
Michele Newell, Aera Energy LLC - Chair The Advisory Council reviewed the draft agenda for the first class day, Leadership and Ethics, which will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 2014 and is in the process of planning the next two class sessions: Arts and Culture Day and Health and Human Services Day. Staff contact: Jean Scheiber
SAVE THE DATE Social Media Therapy Wednesday, January 29 Check-in and Networking: 11:45 a.m. Therapy Session: noon - 1:00 p.m. At the Chamber, 1725 Eye St. Social media can be a powerful business marketing tool. With our Social Media Therapy sessions, you can expand your knowledge and build your business on all things social media.
Chamber Monthly Planner- January 2014
Mark Your Calendar
Upcoming Chamber Meetings and Events
DISNEY JUNIOR LIVE!
Date
Committee
Time
Place
Jan. 3
Governmental Review Council
Dark
Jan. 6
Strictly Business Live Debut
10:00 a.m.
Jan. 8
Youth Leadership Bakersfield Class Day
Chamber
Jan. 9
LB Advisory Council
7:30 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 9
Beautiful Bakersfield Committee
11:45 a.m.
DoubleTree
Jan. 10
Governmental Review Council
7:30 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 13
YLB Advisory Council
11:45 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 14
Labor and Employment Law Update 8:00 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 15
Energy Committee
8:00 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 15
Board Meeting
12:00 p.m.
Chamber
Jan. 17
Leadership Bakersfield Class Day
Jan. 17
Governmental Review Council
7:30 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 23
Annual Dinner
5:30 p.m.
DoubleTree by Hilton
Jan. 24
Governmental Review Council
7:30 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 27
Business Development Committee
11:45 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 28
Ambassador/Mixer Committee
11:45 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 29
Social Media Therapy
11:45 a.m.
Chamber
Jan. 31
Governmental Review Council
7:30 a.m.
Chamber
JANUARY 10
MONSTER X TOUR
www.bakersfield.com
JANUARY 24-25
THE FRESH BEAT BAND LIVE! JANUARY 31
HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS FEBRUARY 14
Public Skating - Ice Hockey Birthday Parties - Figure Skating
661.852.7400 www.sjchicecenter.com
Labor and Employment Law Update
"Affordable Care Act for Employers: The Latest of What We Know, Don't Know and Suspect"
Tuesday, July 16, 2013 “What You Need to Know to Comply with New California and Federal Employment Laws for 2014” Registration: 7:30 a.m. Seminar: 8:00-10:00 p.m. At the Chamber, 1725 Eye Street
Tuesday, January 14 Check-in and Networking: 7:30 a.m. Forum: 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, 1725 Eye Street Cost is free for Chamber members, $40 for nonmembers. Continental breakfast will be provided.
Every new year brings a host of new labor laws and regulations.
Dan Klingenberger, attorney, Dowling Aaron Incorporated, will This Quarterly Labor and Employment Law Update Forum featuring provide you need toAaron helpIncorporated your business Attorneyinformation Daniel O. Jamison of Dowling and Troycomply with of The Lynn Company will give you the information to walk allBurden the new changes in the labor code in store for the year ahead. away with a complete understanding of the employer's role with the Affordable Care Act.
Please inforthe Eye Street parking structure located There ispark no cost Chamber members, $40 for nonmembers. A boxed on the lunch will be provided. To register, call (661) 327-4421or visit northwest corner of 18th and Eye streets. www.bakersfieldchamber.org. METRO 7 Please park in the Eye Street parking structure located on the northwest corner of 18th and Eye streets.
Building a Strong Economy
Chamber Welcomes Five New Board Members. Meet Paul,
Karen Goh, president/CEO Paul Anderson, owner Moneywise Wealth Management Garden Pathways As owner and vice president of marketing and As president/CEO of Garden Pathways, business relations, Anderson manages public relations for the wealth management company. He has 16 years of business administration experience for skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities in Utah and Nevada. Anderson moved to Bakersfield in 2004 to help launch WA Consulting, a financial advising firm for seniors, which later purchased Moneywise. Anderson is a contributing columnist for The Bakersfield Californian and the Kern Business Journal. He has served on several boards including the Utah Health Care Association and the Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County. He has a bachelor’s degree in health administration from Weber State University in Ogden, Utah and volunteers with various youth groups and camps. Anderson lives in Bakersfield with his wife of 21 years and their four children. He enjoys reading, travel, playing guitar, independent films and spending time with his family. “I have been a Chamber member for several years and can see the impact the Chamber has had on my business. The Chamber consistently goes far beyond networking opportunities and has offered me vital information and education to keep me abreast of the latest business, HR and marketing trends and ideas. Simply put, my business is better because of the Chamber.”
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Goh oversees a community-based non-profit that mentors and educates children, youth, and adults to build productive lives, helping at-risk families move toward educational advancement and self-sufficiency. From December 2010 to January 2013, Goh served as Fifth District County Supervisor, having been appointed by then Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Goh spent much of her professional career in New York City at The McGrawHill Companies, where she held executive positions in the elementary publishing division. Goh serves on the Kern Leadership Alliance board and served as a First 5 Kern Commissioner and board member of Community Connection for Child Care Foundation. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Bakersfield. Goh is a University of Southern California undergraduate and graduate school alumna. “We’re very fortunate to have a Chamber that provides outstanding leadership and comprehensive support to foster a healthy business community. I’ve been privileged to participate in a number of Chamber activities that help to build our economy, promote our community and local businesses, offer education on key business issues and advocate for business.”
Kathy Miller, public affairs communications coordinator Aera Energy LLC She is responsible for corporate
communications and branding, including the development of internal publications and communications, website management and the creation of marketing materials. Miller joined Aera in 2010 after a stint at California State University, Bakersfield. Miller has more than 22 years experience working in the education, health care and finance industries. Born in Canada, raised in Bakersfield, she currently serves as chair of the Chamber’s Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Council and on the board of directors of the Kern Community Foundation. For more than a decade, Miller and her husband Don have led a grassroots effort to support troops in Iraq and Afghanistan by sending nearly 14 tons of care packages. Miller holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from California State University, Bakersfield and also earned a master’s degree in public relations from Michigan State University. “My chamber involvement began as a member of the Leadership Bakersfield class of 1996. The behind-the-scenes understanding of issues that impact our community has stayed with me. I look forward to continuing to find ways to cultivate and connect the leaders of tomorrow.”
Building a Strong Economy
Karen, Kathy, Darlene and Pritesh
10th Annual
GO
RED Issue
Darlene Mohlke, vice president of sales and marketing Castle & Cooke Vice President of sales and marketing,
Mohlke has been with Castle & Cooke since 1995, working with all aspects of community relations, governmental affairs, residential development, sales and market and the community non-profit alliances. She also is the corporate broker for the California Residential properties. Mohlke treasures her three grandchildren, Emily, Tynan and Carter and loves to expose them to this great nation. A tireless advocate for the community, she gives her time to Hoffman Hospice; serves as the Kern County Board of Trade representative for District 2; and chaired the 2013 Boots & Bachelor fundraiser for the Bakersfield Homeless Center and 2012 Power of the Purse benefitting Alliance Against Family Violence. “Serving on the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors feels like returning home. My first experience in 1997 was with Leadership Bakersfield. From there I went on to Chair that program and have since witnessed my children going through this program and my granddaughter winning a Beautiful Bakersfield Award in 2013. We are a family of Chamber cheerleaders as we have witnessed first hand the quality of businesses and services the Chamber supports. I welcome the opportunity to give back to the Chamber.”
Pritesh Patel, vice president of loans and branch manager Valley Republic Bank The Bakersfield native graduated from
Bakersfield High School before heading off to California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance with a minor in economics. Patel joined Valley Republic Bank in late 2008 as part of the enthusiastic team that launched Bakersfield’s newest community bank and now manages the Grand Island branch on Ming Avenue. In line with the financial institution’s commitment to continuing education, he is currently enrolled in the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado (GSBC). He will graduate this summer with a comprehensive knowledge of emerging national trends in business lending. Patel and his wife Mira are active in the community and are involved in many nonprofits, including CASA. They welcomed their first child, son Aryaan, in 2013. “The one organization I encourage every business to become involved with is our Chamber of Commerce. A fresh, new agenda has emerged making the organization an even more valued source for the latest local, state and national business practices. The benefits of membership are countless.”
Featuring the 2014 Ladies in Red
IN CONJUNCTION WITH:
plus
Women businesS FEATURE SECTION
Reserve your space today! Space reservations: January 14th Publication: FEBRUARY 2014
661-834-4126
1601 New Stine Road, Suite 200
BakersfieldMagazine.net METRO 9
Promoting Our Members
Renewing Members Support Chamber
The following members renewed their commitment to the Chamber and local business community during the period of November 15 - December 14, 2013 Member Since
Aaron Companies.................................................... 1991 AC Plating................................................................ 2011 AJ’s Tuxedo Junction................................................. 1994 Alliance Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault..... 1992 ADAKC – Alzheimer’s Disease Assoc. of Kern County, Inc...................................................... 1994 AmeriPride Uniform Services................................... 1957 Anthony Vineyards, Inc............................................ 1994 Around the Clock Care............................................. 2001 Assistance League of Bakersfield............................. 2004 Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc..................... 1998 Audio Visual Plus..................................................... 1997 Bakersfield Center for Women’s Health................... 2001 Bakersfield Community Concert Association............ 2007 Bakersfield Country Club......................................... 1991 BARC – Bakersfield ARC........................................... 1997 Beladagio................................................................ 1999 Bell Tower Club....................................................... 1998 Belmore’s Building Maintenance Company............. 2011 Benji’s French Basque Restaurant, Inc..................... 1992 Best Western Liberty Inn......................................... 2002 Bethany Services – Bakersfield Homeless Center.... 1991 Biomat USA............................................................. 2006 Blueprint Service Company..................................... 2000 Boy Scouts – Southern Sierra Council...................... 2002 Bureau of Land Management.................................. 1993 California Cardiac Surgeons..................................... 1996 California Chemical of Bakersfield........................... 1998 California Electric Supply......................................... 1999 Pat Callahan Ceramic Tile, Marble & Granite Fabrication.............................................................. 1992 CASA of Kern County................................................ 1996 Castle & Cooke Mortgage, LLC.................................. 2007 Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired.................. 1992 Centre for Neuro Skills............................................ 1999 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc........................................ 2007 Clean Harbors Buttonwillow LLC............................. 1990 Clifford & Brown, P.C............................................... 1990 Coffee-Brimhall LLC................................................. 2008 Communication Enterprises Inc............................... 1990 Continental Labor and Staffing Resources............... 1997 Diamond Ridge Roofing, Inc.................................... 1994 Diversified Project Services International................. 2008 Downhole Stabilization, Inc..................................... 1998 Ensign U.S. Drilling, CA............................................ 2012 Enterprise Drilling Fluids, Inc................................... 1997 Eurotan .................................................................. 1996 METRO 10
Member Since
Executives’ Association of Kern County..................... 1997 Fallgatter-Rhodes Insurance Services....................... 1993 Fisher, Keathley & Ross............................................ 1990 Foundation Wealth Management/Wells Fargo Advisors................................................................... 2012 Freeport-McMoRan Oil & Gas.................................. 2001 Frugatti’s Italian Eatery............................................ 2004 GAF Corporation...................................................... 1995 Golden Empire Gleaners......................................... 2000 Gundlach’s.............................................................. 1995 Hardwood Floor Company...................................... 2001 Hathaway LLC.......................................................... 2007 Health Care Planning & Education for Elderly & Family....................................................... 1991 Home Builders Association of Kern County.............. 1990 Honey Baked Ham Company................................... 1998 Instant Storage ....................................................... 2000 Jaco Oil.................................................................... 1990 Junior Achievement of Bakersfield........................... 1994 Kern Bros. Trucking, Inc........................................... 1990 Kern Community College District.............................. 2004 Kern County Taxpayers Association.......................... 1991 Kern High School District – Career Resource Department.................................. 1994 KMI Mechanical, Inc................................................ 1991 Knights Jewelers – Riel Gold.................................... 1996 La Paloma Generating Company, LLC...................... 2001 LANPRO Systems..................................................... 2009 Law Office of Craig D. Braun.................................... 2010 Luna & Glushon....................................................... 2010 Magician Ron Saylor................................................ 2002 Marinello Schools of Beauty.................................... 2011 The Meadows.......................................................... 2008 Mercy Hospital Southwest....................................... 2000 Mickey, Casanova & Sack, CPA’s............................... 1989 Mid State Development Corporation....................... 1990 Mission Bank........................................................... 1998 Morgan Corporation................................................ 1997 The Mortgage House, Inc......................................... 2001 Nelms Surveying, Inc............................................... 2010 New York Life Insurance – JoAnn Marling................ 2000 Nickel Family LLC..................................................... 1994 Old River Sod.......................................................... 1993 O’Leary’s Office Products......................................... 1994 Open & Shut............................................................ 2000 Pair & Marotta Physical Therapy.............................. 1990 P*A*S Associates..................................................... 1990
Member Since
Payment Systems Worldwide.................................. 1999 Payroll People Inc.................................................... 1994 Petro Travel Plaza.................................................... 2006 Pismo Beach Hotel Partners, LLC............................. 2011 Price Disposal.......................................................... 1997 Providence Strategic Consulting, Inc. ...................... 2004 Raymond’s Trophy & Awards.................................... 1994 Rick’s Recycling, Inc.................................................. 2002 Roberson Real Estate dba Premier Realty................ 2008 Rotary Club of Bakersfield East................................ 1996 J.D. Rush Company, Inc........................................... 1994 Schlumberger.......................................................... 2011 Seven Oaks Country Club......................................... 1991 Shinault Baker & Company...................................... 1996 SJV Agricultural Association LLC................................ 2011 Sky Writer Promotions............................................. 2007 Skyline Cabinet & Millworks..................................... 1998 G.H. Slack and Son Company / TK Pacific Inc. dba... 1999 Smart & Final – White Lane..................................... 2011 Jess Smith & Sons Commodities............................... 2010 Southern California Gas Company........................... 1936 Southern California Orthopedic Institute................. 1999 Southwest Contractors............................................. 1993 Sparkletts /DS Waters of America............................ 2010 Spherion Staffing..................................................... 2008 State Farm Insurance – Abir Pulskamp.................... 1995 Stevens Transportation, Inc..................................... 1990 Stewart Electric Supply, Inc...................................... 1994 Stockdale Ceramic Tile Center, Inc........................... 1990 Stockdale Podiatry Group........................................ 1998 Sunbelt Business Brokers........................................ 2000 Tejon Indian Tribe................................................... 2012 tempSERV................................................................ 1993 Ticor Title Company................................................. 1995 Uniglobe Golden Empire Travel dba Uniglobe Tvl Partners....................................... 1987 United Refrigeration & Air Conditioning................... 1999 Valley Power Systems, Inc........................................ 1991 Varner Bros. Inc....................................................... 1996 Vital Signs of Bakersfield......................................... 1991 Anita M. Waits, Accountancy Corporation................ 1995 Watson Realty ERA – Mike Saba.............................. 2002 Watson Realty ERA – Terri Collins............................ 1997 White Wolf Land Service......................................... 2001 Wilson Brothers, Inc. dba Wilson Bros. Roofing....... 1998 WZI Inc.................................................................... 1990 Zee Consulting & Associates..................................... 1991
Promoting Our Members
Welcome to Our New Chamber Members November 15 - December 14, 2013
Electrical Power Services Inc. 5306 Aldrin Ct. Bakersfield, CA 93313 661-396-0907 www.elecpwrsvc.com “EPSI is a young and growing company, unique in our scope of work and professional experience. Please contact us concerning any electrical project as we look forward to serving our community, the central valley and your electrical needs.” Grandma Whoople Enterprises PO Box 691 Bakersfield, CA 93302 661-865-2422 “Grandma Whoople Enterprises provides children birthday parties as an entertainer/team player coordinator and provides anti-bullying activities for schools/classroom, churches and community groups.” JJ’s Legacy 4900 California Ave., Ste. 210B PO Box 12793 Bakersfield, CA 93389 661-377-1927 www.jjslegacy.org “Our mission is to provide education and awareness regarding the importance of organ and tissue donation and to support donor and recipient families of Kern County on their respective journeys.”
Kern Law Enforcement Association 3417 Pegasus Dr. PO Box 82516 Bakersfield, CA 93380 661-392-4430 “The Kern Law Enforcement Association (KLEA) is a nonprofit organization consisting of 540 sworn members from the Kern County Sheriff’s Office and Kern County District Attorney’s Office.” Les Schwab Tire Center 2512 Oswell St. Bakersfield, CA 93306 661-872-3305 “We provide World Class Customer Service in tires, brakes, shocks and wheel alignment. With the Best Tire Value Promise we are committed to being the best value in Bakersfield.” Stockdale Radiology 4000 Empire Dr., Ste. 100 PO Box 2223 Bakersfield, CA 93303 661-631-8000 www.stockdalerad.com “Stockdale Radiology is committed to providing the highest standard of compassionate care to our patients, utilizing the latest technology, equipment and training.”
Member News
From and About Your Fellow Chamber Members CalChamber is offering a 2014 Employment Law Update Tuesday, January 14, 8:30 a.m. to noon, at Aera Energy LLC, 10000 Ming Avenue. The cost is $199. Register online at calchamber.com/ELUseminar or call (800) 331-8877. San Joaquin Community Hospital hosts Free Children’s Mobile Immunization Clinics throughout January 2014. Visit www.sjch.us or call (661) 869-6740 for clinic schedule and more information.
Kern County Board of Trade invites you to save the date for the 2014 State of the County, January 29, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. 2013 Milken Institute BestPerforming Cities Index ranks Bakersfield-Delano, CA number 19 out of 200. The components include job, wage and salary, and technology growth. In most years, these rankings give a good indication of the underlying structural performance of regional economics.
ADVOCACY/ ECONOMIC IMPACT SPONSORSHIPS Good Morning Bakersfield A breakfast series aimed at bringing insight into today’s important issues. Attendees get the opportunity to hear key leaders discuss topics that impact our community. Depending on your level of sponsorship, benefits may include reserved seating, a role on the day’s agenda and publicity in all program materials. Series sponsorships: Staff contact: Leticia Flores Presenting $10,000 (Pending availability) Platinum $5,000 Silver $2,500 Bronze $1,000 Legislative Trip This annual trip to Sacramento gives business and chamber of commerce leaders the opportunity to meet with peers and state policy experts to focus on priority legislative issues facing local business. Attendees get the information they need to be an active player in the legislative process and present the business perspective on policy issues affecting a company’s bottom line. A delegation representing Bakersfield hosts an event for legislative consultants, members and their staff as part of the two-day visit. Staff contact: Leticia Flores Sponsorship $1,000
Granite Construction Company is requesting quotes from all qualified subcontractors and suppliers including certified DBE firms for shoulder widening in Mono County, bid due date January 8, 2:00 p.m. If you are interested in bidding this project, please contact Cliff Boren at (661) 387-7712 or fax your bid to (661) 399-3598.
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Promoting Our Community
Ribbon Cuttings and Ground Breakings Kern Schools Federal Credit Union 3300 Buena Vista Road, Suite J (661) 833-7900 New Location
RAJohnsfam DBA McDonald’s 1812 Union Avenue (661) 323-1115 Remodel
Omni Family Health 210 N. Chester (661) 625-4900 Ground Breaking – New Location METRO 12
Representing the Interests of Business with Government Promoting Our Community
Avoid Penalty
Pre-order your Mandatory 2014 Employment Notice Poster Today! It’s that time of year again... and the
Chamber can help you get the updated California State and Federal Employment Notice Poster. ALL California employers, regardless of size, MUST post a current employment poster. Failure to post can cost as much as $17,000 in penalties. Call the Chamber at (661) 327-4421 to pre-order your poster today! Just $32.00 plus tax! Posters will be available for pick-up at the Chamber early January 2014.
AQUAHELIO -
Fremont Valley Preservation Project
Governmental Review Council (GRC) will resume on Friday, January 10, with a presentation from AQUAHELIO and the Fremont Valley preservation Project. David Morton, A-C Electric Company, will share a general project overview on the solar power facility and the water production and banking projects and their benefits to Kern County. The GRC meeting runs from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at the Chamber of Commerce, 1725 Eye Street. Free parking is available in the parking structure across the street from the Chamber on the corner of 18th and Eye streets.
A bi-monthly publication put together with the help of the Bakersfield Californian, County of Kern, Kern Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) and the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce. The journal contains news and information from local Kern County business leaders and organizations.
KERN Journal Business
Vol. 1, No.1
Ag Outlook
2012 crop report shows higher yields Under my chin, I have three rows of scars — medical embroidery commemorating the unfortunate ends to various bike rides of my youth. Of course, I also have plenty of good memories of riding bikes: the wind on my face, the impossible speed and the way those two wheels expanded the perimeter of my world. But my clearest recollections — the ones that are of photographic quality — are those of that moment right before the crash. My first accident happened when I was 6. My oldest sister’s friend hopped on the back of my banana seat. We went downhill at an unexpected speed that shook my handlebars. The bike moved of its own accord to the gravely shoulder, and I knew we were going down.
Sept. Oct. 2012
Commercial R.E. What’s moving in Kern? Page 4
$3.00
Cover Story
County consumer confidence up U nder my chin, I have three rows of scars — medical embroidery commemorating the unfortunate ends to various bike rides of my youth. Of course, I also have plenty of good memories of riding bikes: the wind on my face, the impossible speed and the way those two wheels expanded the perimeter of my world. But my clearest recollections — the ones that are of photographic quality — are those of that moment right before the crash. My first accident happened when I was 6. My oldest sister’s friend hopped on the back of my banana seat. We went downhill at an unexpected speed that shook my handlebars. The bike moved of its own accord to the gravely shoulder, and I knew we were going down. After that incident, which required stitches, there was yet another hill and more gravel (that time, my back bore the brunt of the injury). Each following accident had its own special flavor — sometimes a flip over the handlebars and other times a sideways skid with the bike landing on top of me like a brutish metallic butterfly. But they were all the same in one quality, the moment of clarity before the moment of pain: Well, here I go again, right into the road. Upon graduating high school, I didn’t have enough money for a car, so my dad found a
10-speed at a garage sale, gave it a tune-up, and wrapped the handlebars with tape that looked like it should have been cordoning off a crime scene. Presto, instant transportation! On that particular bike, I crashed into a trash can in front of a truck full of boys (humiliating!), got a traffic ticket (didn’t even know that was possible), and ended up with
yet another set of stitches on my face (third time’s the charm). Then, glory be, I got a car. I was now one of the four-wheeled dictators of the road. Did it matter that my vehicle was primer bronze? That the sound system was a boom box in the front seat? That the windshield wipers one day broke in the on position, and I drove through
Distribution to 10,000 with 2,500 in selected racks for free distribution and 7,500 direct mailed to Kern County business professionals.
To subscribe or advertise, contact
Mira Patel (661) 395-7586 mpatel@bakersfield.com METRO 13
Promoting Our Community
Beautiful Bakersfield Nominations Open February 1 Through March 17 The Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce will be accepting nominations for the Beautiful Bakersfield awards February 1 through March 17, 2014. Awards will be based on work completed in 2013. Start thinking of nominees for these categories: Active Adults An individual or group age 60 or more that exemplifies meaningful contributions, strength of character and commitment to our community. All-America City Tradition – Civic/Nonprofit The coordination of efforts that have enhanced the quality of life in Bakersfield. Architecture The completion of a new design integrating the environment with space and materials. Performing Arts Excellence or achievement by an individual or group in any of the following: dance, literature, music, theater.
Visual Arts Excellence or achievement by an individual or group in any of the following: painting, photography, sculpture, etc. Commercial Remodel The completion of a renovated design that upgrades an existing structure and/or incorporates the use of landscaping to enhance the aesthetic value of the property. Education Efforts that promote or benefit education in our city at all levels. Environmental An individual, group or organization that promotes preservation and conservation of our local environment. Health An individual, group or organization that has made a significant contribution toward healthy living in Bakersfield through education, prevention or medical services. Humanitarian – Individual An individual whose personal effort has contributed to the community as a whole.
Architecture
Advertising
Hospitality
www.ttallman.com
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Humanitarian – Group A group whose combined efforts has contributed to the community as a whole.
Lifestyle
661.330.2482
Public/Private Partnership The use of public/private funds in a partnership effort to enhance the quality of life in our community. Youth – Individual An individual age 20 years or younger who, through personal involvement and endeavors, has answered the call of good citizenship. Youth – Group A group age 20 years or younger that, through personal involvement and endeavors, has answered the call of good citizenship. The Beautiful Bakersfield gala awards ceremony will be held Saturday, May 31, at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton. Nomination applications can be found on the Chamber’s website www.bakersfieldchamber. org, or by visiting the Chamber office at 1725 Eye Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301. For questions please contact Jean Scheiber at (661) 327-4421 or email jscheiber@bakersfieldchamber.org
Industrial
Building a Strong Economy
High-Speed Rail Teaming Opportunity The Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce is partnering with CALTROP to host an “Open
House” on Thursday, January 9, at 4:00 p.m., at the Chamber. This will be an opportunity for small businesses in the Bakersfield area to learn about the High Speed Rail contract and opportunities to team with CALTROP. CALTROP Corporation is pursing the California High-Speed Rail (CHSR) Authority’s recently board approved request for qualified project and construction management services for the high speed rail system. The company is seeking Central Valley, Fresno, Visalia and Bakersfield qualified professional firms and small business, DBE and DVBE firms across several areas of expertise that are interested in being part of the team. The selected project and construction management team will provide full-time staff to CHSR Authority, who will be co-located in the office of the Design-Builder in the Central Valley office. Seating is limited so an RSVP is required. You may RSVP your plans to attend the event by contacting Madison Chetwood at mchetwood@caltrop.com or (949) 337-4288 Free parking is available in the parking structure across the street from the Chamber on the corner of 18th and Eye streets.
This is your home. IT’S OURS TOO. For 60 years, KDG has offered an unrivaled track record, depth of knowledge, and experience unique to the San Joaquin Valley. Nobody knows you like a neighbor, and nobody can meet your legal needs and achieve successful, cost-effective results like KDG. With more than 40 highly skilled attorneys, KDG provides advanced legal services for matters ranging from business and commercial litigation to business counseling, intellectual property, and corporate and real estate transactions, as well as estate planning and employment law issues.
W W W . K L E I N L A W . C O M
METRO 15 4550 California Avenue, 2nd Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93309 • 661.395.1000 | 5260 N. Palm Avenue, Suite 201, Fresno, CA 93704 • 559.438.4374
Paul Anderson Moneywise/BrokersXpress Brooke Antonioni Trans West Security Service, Inc. Susan M. Benham Dignity Health Memorial Hospital Greg Chamberlain Bakersfield College David Dobbs Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant Karen Goh Garden Pathways, Inc. Scott Guseman Paramount Farming Company Ronald Johns RA Johnsfam dba McDonald’s Duane Keathley Cushman & Wakefield/Pacific Kathy Miller Aera Energy LLC Darlene Mohlke Castle & Cooke California, Inc. Bill Murray DoubleTree by Hilton Carla Musser Chevron Pritesh Patel Valley Republic Bank Tom Saba Creative Concepts/Saba Agency Rick Stevens Stevens Transportation, Inc. DeAnn Straub Kern Federal Credit Union Danielle Wade Bright House Networks
Chamber Staff President/CEO Director of Operations Controller Project Manager Operations Assistant Information Specialist Government Affairs Manager
Cynthia D. Pollard Tonya Sterling Jennifer Abercrombie Open Jean Scheiber Janet Ursery Leticia Flores
Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce 1725 Eye Street • PO Box 1947 Bakersfield, CA 93303 661-327-4421 • FAX: 661-327-8751 http://www.bakersfieldchamber.org
Please post this newsletter on your company bulletin board. All employees of member businesses are invited to Chamber functions.
Board Members
Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce 1725 Eye Street • PO Box 1947 Bakersfield, CA 93303
Chairman of the Board Danny Ordiz Ordiz-Melby Architects, Inc. Chairman of the Board Elect Susie Geiger Occidental Petroleum Vice Chair Administration Shaun Kelly Tolman and Wiker Insurance Services, LLC Vice Chair Networking Division Karen King Golden Empire Transit Vice Chair Business Advocacy Derek Abbot Tejon Ranch Company Vice Chair Member Education Christine Frazier Kern County Superintendent of Schools Vice Chair Community Outreach John F. Stovall Law Offices of John F. Stovall Treasurer Andy Paulden Brown Armstrong Accountants Immediate Past Chair Garrett Ming Jim Burke Ford Lincoln Director-at-Large Steve Murray Murray Family Farms
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Bakersfield, CA Permit #61
2014 Board of Directors
2014 Annual Dinner Gala and Board Installation
January 23, 2014 No Host Cocktails 5:30 p.m. Dinner and Program 6:30 p.m. DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton
Tickets $75 Table of 10 $850 Register online at www.bakersfieldchamber.org or call (661) 327-4421
METRO 16 For more information contact: Tonya Sterling (661) 327-4421, tsterling@bakersfieldchamber.org