September 2018 Metro by Greater Bakersfield Chamber

METR

A publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce | September 2018

Brought to you by

ONE MASTER PLAN FOUR GATED COMMUNITIES A LIFETIME OF ENJOYMENT ark

Highgate Square

HIGHGATE SQUARE Designed for first-time buyers and young professionals, with six Castle & Cooke floor plans priced from the low $300’s.

HIGHGATE PROPER Designed for growing families and move-up buyers, with six Castle & Cooke floor plans priced from the high $300’s.

Highgate Proper

HIGHGATE SHIRES Designed for executive-level living with enhanced privacy and larger lot sizes. Choose a home by Castle & Cooke or from three of Bakersfield's finest custom and semi-custom builders: Dave Packer Custom Builder, Gaskill-Rose Luxury Home Builders and George Delfino Homes.

HIGHGATE REGENTS Designed for active adults seeking a stress-free, low maintenance lifestyle. Choose from seven Castle & Cooke floor plans. And opening in spring 2019 the Regency Club will feature a private clubhouse, swim and fitness center exclusively for Highgate Regents residents.

Highgate Shires

HIGHGATE SWIM & FITNESS CLUBHOUSE Within the gated privacy of Highgate at Seven Oaks residents of Highgate Square, Highgate Proper and Highgate Shires can enjoy the Highgate Swim & Fitness Clubhouse, with its sparkling swimming pool and spa, expansive park and amphitheater, children’s water spray park, tot lot playground, basketball court and breathtaking clubhouse with kitchen, fitness center and meeting rooms.

Highgate Regents

Seven Oaks Country Club Membership Incentives Available*

Model Homes Now Open in Each Community

Highgate Clubhouse

661-491-3009 | Ming Ave. & Allen Rd. Monday- Saturday 10am -5pm Sunday 11am - 5pm

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From the Original Creator of Seven Oaks

* Requires financing through Castle & Cooke Mortgage. Seven Oaks Country Club membership subject to application approval.

P R O F E S S I ON A L L Y M A N A G E D , G A T E D C O M M U N I T Y | P R I V A T E P A R K S , C L U B H O U S E , P O O L & F I T N E S S C E N T E R

BRE# 01254164

on the

INSIDE

4 LOCAL BRANDING EFFORT Bakersfield and Kern County are a unique region. Read about an indepth initiative the Chamber has partnered on to help improve the local external image.

6 BRAND-BUILDING EVENT

Networking, food, prizes – Bakersfield's best B2B trade show will have it all! Find out how to attend for free.

& EDUCATION 7 NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

If you want to connect and learn, our events have you covered. Learn to navigate bidding paperwork like a pro or find your next business contact.

GET READY TO PARTY The ultimate downtown party is back. See what's planned for the fourth annual Downtown Street Party and how to get your business involved.

12 16

BECOME AN ADVOCATE Advocacy is a cornerstone of our work. How a Friday morning meeting is working to improve business issues for everyone.

RIBBON CUTTINGS Celebrate important milestones of fellow Chamber members.

8 Cover

Oil derricks in West Bakersfield at sunset. Photo credit: April & Co.

MEMBER NEWS Discover the latest news and happenings with other members.

#YourBusinessAdvocate 1725 Eye St. • PO Box 1947 Bakersfield, CA 93303 661.327.4421 bakersfieldchamber.org

Metro is the official publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce. This publication is produced and digitally distributed to the Chamber’s membership at the beginning of each month. Every effort has been made to ensure the information in this publication is correct and accurate as of the publication date. Metro does not warrant the accuracy or claims of its advertisers. The Chamber President/CEO has the sole right to refuse any advertisement. Please send any comments, questions, article suggestions or advertising inquiries to jscheiber@bakersfieldchamber.org. © Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.

METRO | PAGE 3

GBCC

Why we're your

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

he San Joaquin Valley is a unique region, with unique needs. As we look forward to what our regional economy needs to thrive and the vital role Kern County plays in the Valley and State, we must work hard to define our challenges and work collaboratively to solve them. This year at the Chamber, we have been working on a number of initiatives to ensure that our community is looking forward, that we are partnering with the right allies and driving positive change.

Chamber President/CEO Nick Ortiz and Kaelyn De Leon, Manager, Policy & Public Affairs, spent time in Sacramento last month discussing our position on key legislation and the potential impacts to our members. From left to right, Nathan Alonzo, Fresno Chamber of Commerce; De Leon; Assemblymember Vince Fong; Ortiz; and Nathan Ahle, Fresno Chamber of Commerce.

As we close the summer, another legislative session has ended. Though at this writing many bills are still in flux, our members should know that the Chamber has taken a very active role in Sacramento. The Chamber team, along with allies from across the San Joaquin Valley and important industry partners, have been in the Capitol multiple times, working on issues and making Nick Ortiz sure our members’ voices are represented. Our continued partnership with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce is helping to strengthen the Valley’s political clout. Your Chamber has always been a leader in advocacy and political action. Our goal is to make our efforts more visible and effective. Also, we’ve been a part of a major project to redefine our city and county image. Last month, the Chamber and our partners released the initial research findings from the Regional Branding Initiative (RBI) project. The RBI is a partnership between the County of Kern, City of Bakersfield, Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, Kern Economic Development Corporation and a group of 16 private sector funders. The goal of the initiative is to improve the external image of Bakersfield and Kern County, and to develop tools that allow our local leaders and residents to be better ambassadors for our region. This effort has been data driven, focusing on collecting qualitative and quantitative

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feedback on the City and County as well as our strengths and weaknesses. Our plan is to use this data to drive meaningful change within our communities that strengthen our economic position and make our residents proud of the place they call home. One of the key issues the research picked up, which has become a prominent focus of the news coverage, was our communal lack of self-esteem. Bakersfield and Kern County residents had more negative views about their community than residents from the Los Angeles area, the San Francisco Bay Area and the rest of the Central Valley. Furthermore, outsiders found Kern County and Bakersfield to be friendly, helpful and down-to-earth. This has started a conversation about how local residents view our neighbors and our community. Which is a great thing! We now know that we need to focus on “local tourism”

– advocating for ourselves within the city and county boundaries. We also hope that this perception of “not being good enough” will drive community participation as we begin to change the narrative of our community. So, what’s next? The first phase of the project focused on opinion research. The next phase of the project will entail distilling that research – on assets, challenges and opportunities – into compelling narratives for the City and County. Those narratives will then become the basis for creative and strategy development. The organizations that have partnered on this project are committed to seeing this through successful implementation. More information on the effort’s progress should be available in early 2019.

Nick Ortiz

President/CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce

BOARD OF DIRECTORS NOMINATED SLATE OF CANDIDATES ANNOUNCED

he nominated slate of candidates for 2019-2021 was approved by the current Chamber’s Board of Directors on August 15. The nominations include: First term nominations Andy Anderson | Aera Energy LLC Rick Jhaj | Countryside Markets/Countryside Construction Jacob Panero | Varner Bros. Mike Mares | California Water Service Second term nominations Sonya Christian | Bakersfield College Don Bynum | Gregory Bynum & Associates/Temblor Brewing Co. Andy Paulden | Brown Armstrong Accountants

To fill vacancies in existing terms, the following individuals have been nominated to serve first terms – Sharlet Briggs, Adventist Health Bakersfield and Katy Raytis, BeldenBlaine, LLP. As outlined in the Chamber bylaws, the Chamber’s general membership must be notified of the nominated slate of candidates. Members have 10 days from notice (September 14, 2018) to submit a petition signed by at least 25 members in good standing with alternate candidates. If no petition is filed by September 14, 2018 the slate of candidates shall be declared elected. To provide a petition please contact Chamber President/ CEO Nick Ortiz at 661-327-4421 or email nortiz@bakersfieldchamber.org.

METRO | PAGE 5

CONNECT

BRAND-BUILDING Opportunities

ake advantage of all the connecting and brandbuilding opportunities at Bakersfield’s best B2B trade show. Presented by Dignity Health, the Chamber’s 2018 Business Expo will bring together the local business community for a night of professional and personal networking. “Dignity Health – Mercy and Memorial Hospitals, along with Dignity Health Medical Group and Managed Care Services, are proud to partner with the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce," said Robin Mangarin-Scott, vice president, strategic marketing for Dignity Health. "GBCC provides vital leadership and resources that strengthen our business community and provide opportunities for every organization. From large companies, like Dignity Health, to the smallest start-ups, GBCC provides the platform to bring the business community together to support each other and thrive.” With attendance expected to be in the hundreds, this event is the perfect opportunity to build your brand, land your next big contract or find the tools and resources you need. “Our business development team enjoys the networking opportunities and the furthering of the many valuable relationships that we already share while they attend the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce’s Business Expo,” said Ben Stinson, owner of Stinson’s. Several restaurants and caterers will also have their delicious culinary samples available for tasting. Visit each of the 65+ exhibitors for your chance to win prizes. Event sponsors will also be providing extra special prizes. “To thank the Chamber and its members, we will be raffling two date night experiences in the all-new 2018 Ford Expedition. Winners will receive an overnight rental and

BUSINESS EXPO SPONSORS Presenting

Co-Sponsors American Business Machines Stinson's Auto Sponsor Jim Burke Ford Lincoln METRO | PAGE 6

“

Jim Burke Ford Lincoln is proud to support the Chamber’s Annual Business Expo. This is one of our favorite and most engaging events of the year. George Hay Jim Burke Ford Lincoln

”

$100 Visa gift card to be used at a restaurant of their choice. This is our way of giving back to our friends and customers,” said George Hay, director of marketing and advertising for Jim Burke Ford Lincoln. The 2018 Business Expo will be held on Wednesday, September 12, from 4-7 p.m., at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bakersfield, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. We want you to attend the 2018 Business Expo for free! Download your free admission coupon at www.bakersfieldchamber.org.

CONNECT

EXPAND

your network & knowledge

PANCAKES & PARTNERSHIPS

very day, companies negotiate contracts on everything from ordering products to securing consulting services. However, the terminology found in most commercial agreements can leave anyone’s head spinning. Giving our members the tools and knowledge they need to help secure a successful deal is the reason behind our Pancakes and Partnerships Procurement Breakfast series. Join us on Sept. 6 as Tracy Saiki and Jacob Eaton, both of Klein DeNatale Goldner, help attendees build on the knowledge they gained during the first session and teach strategies to deal with the thorny terms found in nearly all commercial agreements. Saiki serves as of counsel for You will learn... the firm, and How key terms and phrases play a specializes major role in creating and reviewing in providing commercial agreements. outside general counsel Defining these terms and phrases in plain language and providing context services for for their use in the greater document. businesses. She has Establishing which of these require negotiated more focus and which are less thousands of impactful. commercial agreements

in diverse contexts. Saiki has also served as general counsel for Bolthouse Farms and Campbell Soup Company. Eaton, a partner, works in the firm’s corporate transactions and bankruptcy departments. He has represented dairies and farmers in business transactions. This session will be held at Klein DeNatale Goldner’s office, 4550 California Ave., Second Floor. Checkin begins at 7:30 a.m., with the program following from 8-9:30 a.m. Cost is $25 for members; $50 for nonmembers. Reserve your seat at www.bakersfieldchamber.org. Cancellations must be received 24 hours in advance to preclude billing.

Tracy Saiki

Jacob Eaton

Presented by

SEPTEMBER AFTER HOURS MIXER

uilding a strong sense of community is priority for local developers as they design their master-plan communities. Belcourt at Seven Oaks, in the city’s west end, is no exception. With its iconic California Prairiestyle clock tower visible from every vantage within the community, Belcourt is designed to offer a completely new way to live in Bakersfield, regardless of a family’s housing needs. Check out Belcourt’s six distinctive neighborhoods at our next After Hours Mixer on Sept. 27, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Enjoy appetizers and drinks at the Belcourt Center Club while taking in the beauty of this new westside neighborhood. Belcourt at Seven Oaks is located at 12100 White Lane. Cost is $5 for members or $10 for nonmembers at the door. For more information, visit www.bakersfieldchamber.org. METRO | PAGE 7

BYP

The downtown party

IS BACK

ickets for Bakersfield’s ultimate downtown experience are now on sale. The fourth annual Downtown Street Party will take over the Wall Street Alley, between H and Eye streets, on Friday, Oct. 12. Join other young professionals from 7-11 p.m. for a night of live music and entertainment, games, a photo booth and plenty of networking opportunities. Enjoy drink selections from the beer garden to pair with fare from local food trucks. Tickets are $15 in advance at www.eventbrite.com, or $20 at the door. This event will benefit the BYP program, to help provide more educational and professional development opportunities. Sponsorships are available. For more information, contact Hillary Haenes at hhaenes@bakersfieldchamber.org.

Purchase tickets at Eventbrite.com

PHILANTHROPY ON TAP Tucked away just outside Bakersfield, the California Living Museum is the only major wildlife rehabilitation facility in the southern San Joaquin Valley. Known mainly for its animal exhibits and experiences like the Condors Challenge and Central California Children’s Railroad, CALM’s staff also works tirelessly behind-the-scenes to re-release sick and injured animals back into the wild.

FEATURED NONPROFIT

METRO | PAGE 8

Learn how to get involved with CALM at the next Philanthropy on Tap event on Sept. 4 at Temblor Brewing Co. Become a docent, help with rehabilitation efforts and more. CALM also needs dozens of volunteers to pull off a community tradition – HolidayLights at CALM. Featuring more than three million lights, the event was named as one of the top 10 ten lights shows in the Western U.S. by The LA Times last year. Join us from 5:30-7 p.m. to learn and connect while you enjoy complimentary beer, wine and appetizers. To see what BYP is doing in the community, follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

We can’t do it without you.

(And about 8,000 of our closest friends.) The Bakersfield Marathon strives to highlight the very best that Bakersfield and Kern County has to offer. As a local non-profit, our volunteer board invests its heart and soul into building an event that makes our community proud. Bringing a world-class marathon to our city wasn’t easy ― but together with our incredible sponsors, we were able to create the Central Valley’s best marathon. As a valued sponsor of the Bakersfield Marathon, you will help attract participants to Bakersfield to learn more about our unique products and services (while supporting our local hotels, restaurants and gas stations along the way!)

Care to join us? We’d love to help bring your brand to our 8,000 runners, supporters, and volunteers. Add your unique voice to the tapestry of the 3rd Annual Bakersﬁeld Marathon on November 18, 2018.

Contact us at 661.249.6450 or directors@activebakersﬁeld.org. Sponsorship and volunteer information is also available at runbakersﬁeld.com.

VALLEY REPUBLIC BANK welcomes

GERAUD SMITH

Senior Executive Vice President

alley Republic Bank is pleased to welcome Geraud Smith to the executive team. As Senior Executive Vice President, he will be working closely with Bruce Jay, President and CEO. A Bakersfield native with over 20 years of national commercial banking experience right here in the San Joaquin Valley â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Geraud offers the perfect blend of exceptional credentials along with a strong commitment to our community.

Give Geraud a call today!

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valleyrepublicbank.com | 661.371.2000 Valley Republic Bancorp

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ADVOCACY

A long-standing

ADVOCACY TRADITION

or most of the Chamber’s existence, the Governmental Review Council (GRC) has been a leading voice in our advocacy efforts. The role of GRC is to represent the interests of business at the local, state and federal levels. The council identifies, analyzes and monitors issues impacting business and recommends policy positions to the Chamber’s Board of Directors. It is comprised of 21 voting members and a chairman, and all Chamber members in good standing are invited to attend. For many, GRC is more than just another committee meeting. It is a tradition that spans many decades, and has helped engage local professionals in government advocacy. “I have been attending GRC since 1991, when I moved here from Orange County. I have found the networking and insight into local government and regulatory issues highly valuable to my business activities,” said GRC voting member

Dave Dmohowski, of Home Builders. Every Friday morning, our members gather to hear and discuss government issues pertaining to the business sector. These meetings take the Chamber’s advocacy efforts to a new level by allowing politically-engaged members to give their input into what issues are most important to them. GRC is the first stop that a piece of legislation, proposition or initiative goes through to receive a Chamber endorsement. Once a presentation is made to the council, GRC then gives a recommendation to the Chamber Board of Directors for approval. This is one of the biggest roles that GRC does to ensure the Chamber is listening to its members and advocating to create a more profitable and thriving local business climate. “I have been attending the Governmental Review Council CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

IMPROVE EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

egardless of a company’s size, there are numerous mandated leaves of absence that employees are entitled to under state and federal law. Employers and HR managers must keep track of every single one to stay in compliance. Let the Chamber help you navigate the maze of employee leaves at our next Labor Law & HR Forum on Sept. 20. Local employment law attorney Jerry Pearson, of Young Wooldridge LLP, will provide tips and tools for business owners and HR supervisors to effectively manage employee leaves. He will also discuss what happens when these mandated leaves overlap. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m., with the program following from 8-10 a.m. Cost is $25 for members; $50 for nonmembers. A light breakfast will be provided. Register at www.bakersfieldchamber.org. Cancellations must be received 24 hours in advance to preclude billing.

You will learn... When do you have a responsibility to provide an employee with a leave of absence? Which leave of absence applies? FMLA, CFRA, PDL, ADA? Which leaves of absence can an employer run concurrently? What obligations does an employer have when an employee does not qualify for a statutory leave, or when an employee does not return from a leave?

“

Presenting Sponsor

”

LLP

Co-Sponsor Jerry Pearson

METRO | PAGE 12

The backbone of our community is our local businesses, big and small. For them to succeed, it is important that they keep abreast of the legal challenges business face. Jerry Pearson Young Wooldridge LLP

ADVOCACY

ith the midterm election just a few months away in November, our staff is tracking the long list of ballot initiatives that will greet voters at the polls. We are committed to keeping our members informed of how these proposed measures will impact their bottom line as well as the cost of doing business locally and statewide. Until November's election, we will provide a comprehensive list of the ballot initiatives the Chamber supports and opposes. It's just one more way we're working to ensure a healthy business climate for all.

SUPPORT

Proposition 3 – The Water Supply and Water Quality Act of 2018 If passed, this citizen’s initiative water bond would provide an $8.8 billion statewide water bond that will follow-up on Proposition 1 (2014) programs that were either missed or insufficiently funded. It will also provide millions of dollars in funding for improvement projects for the Friant-Kern Water Canal.

SUPPORT

Proposition 5 – People’s Initiative to Protect Proposition 13 Savings The proposed initiative would amend Proposition 13 (1978) to allow homebuyers who are age 55 or older or are severely disabled to transfer their tax assessments, with a possible adjustment, from their prior home to their new home. The new home’s market value or location within the state as well as the buyer’s number of moves would not impact the transfer.

OPPOSE

Proposition 8 – Dialysis Proposition Proposition 8 sets severely low limits on what insurance companies are required to pay for dialysis care. These limits do not cover the cost of providing care, and could force many clinics to cut back services or even close. This also would jeopardize access to dialysis care and endanger patients who depend on this life-saving treatment three times a week, three to four hours at a time, to stay alive.

OPPOSE

Proposition 10 – The Affordable Housing Act (Initiative 17-0041) Although branded as a solution to bring more affordable housing to California, this initiative will actually add to the state's housing shortage. The initiative encourages homeowners to convert potential rental properties into more profitable uses, like condos and short-term vacation rentals, which would reduce rental inventory statewide. It would also allow unelected boards and commissions to impose new rent control regulations and fees without a local vote.

SUPPORT

Proposition 11 – Emergency Ambulance Employee Safety and Preparedness Act Proposition 11 would allow ambulance providers to require workers to remain on-call during breaks while being paid at their regular rate. Employers would also be required to provide additional training for EMTs and paramedics regarding active shooters, multiple casualties, natural disasters, violence prevention and mental health. The proposition would also require employers to provide EMTs and paramedics with some paid mental health services.

SUPPORT BCCPAC

ounded in 1999, the Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee, or BCCPAC, gives our members a direct way to influence the issues that will affect how they handle their day-to-day operations. All members are invited to attend the inaugural fundraiser for BCCPAC on Tuesday, Sept. 18. Mix and mingle with elected officials, and learn how the Chamber's non-partisan political action committee works to elect business-friendly candidates. The event will be held at Temblor Brewing Company, 3200 Buck Owens Blvd., Suite 200. Tickets are $50 per person, and can be purchased by calling 661-327-4421 or emailing info@bakersfieldchamber.org. Cancellations must be received 24 hours in advance to preclude billing. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Email kdeleon@bakersfieldchamber.org for details.

GOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COUNCIL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

meetings since 1996. These meetings have provided me with an excellent opportunity to better understand the diverse public policy issues in Bakersfield and Kern County, and, more specifically, to appreciate the unique perspectives of business,” said GRC Chair Michael Hulsizer, of Kern County Superintendent of Schools. GRC is a tradition, which is both loved by members and vital to our advocacy efforts. GRC meets every Friday morning at the Chamber office from 7:30-8:30 a.m. For more information about GRC, visit bakersfieldchamber.org. METRO | PAGE 13

GBCC

Discovering what it takes to be a

LEADER

ater this month, 32 individuals will come together to begin their journey as the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2019. Throughout the 10-month program, participants, each from different industries and backgrounds, will discover more about their own leadership styles, build lasting connections, meet and interact with current leaders and more. The program will also push participants out of their comfort zones and introduce them to key issues shaping our

city. Each of the 10 class sessions combines top-tiered speakers and panels, access to movers and shakers within key industries, exclusive tours and hands-on activities to educate the class on the day’s topic. Participants will also utilize their talents and knowledge they have learned to design a project that fulfills a need within the community. Each year, these projects touch the lives of hundreds of people and bring in thousands of dollars to improve the local quality of life.

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METRO | PAGE 14

MARKET LEADER FOR YOUR COMMERCIAL PROJECT

Best Price, Best Selection, Best Service

Our 2019 Business Directory 2 0 1 8

It's your chance to

Advertise The Reasons Expand your brand's reach throughout community Digital incentives, including a host of valuable statistics Affordable pricing And so much more

Ad sales end Sept. 26

1725 Eye Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301, 661.327.4421, www.bakersfieldchamber.org

For advertising information and pricing, contact Andrea Johnston 661.327.4421 ajohnston@bakersfieldchamber.org

Patrice Black 661.327.4421 pblack@bakersfieldchamber.org

METRO | PAGE 15

PROMOTING OUR COMMUNITY

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Burgerim

Unitek College

McDonald’s

Rush Crush

5041 Gosford Rd., Ste. 300 https://www.burgerim.com/bakersfield

5410 Stockdale Hwy. www.McDonalds.com

333 Palmer Dr., Ste. 200 https://www.unitekcollege.edu

35315 Merle Haggard Dr., Ste. 100 www.shoprushcrush.com

UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS GRAND OPENING Chicago’s Pizza With a Twist Sept. 19 • 11:30 a.m. 3150 Panama Ln., Ste. A GRAND OPENING Foster Parent Training Center for Homes of Hope Sept. 21 • 11 a.m. 4200 Truxtun Ave., Ste. 202

METRO | PAGE 16

GRAND OPENING Acupuncture & Herbs Oct. 4 • 4 p.m. 3850 Riverlakes Dr., #C

Want to keep up on what ribbon cuttings are coming up? Subscribe to the Chamber's weekly e-newsletter #TrendingattheChamber!

PROMOTING OUR COMMUNITY

MEMBER NEWS Registration for the League of Dreams and Kern Dance Alliance’s joint program, ADAPTIdance opened Sept. 1. The program is open to children ages 5-22 with physical or developmental disabilities. To register, visit www.ourleagueofdreams.com. California State University, Bakersfield will host a grand opening ceremony for its new Student Advising and Success Center Building on Sept. 5, at 10 a.m. The new center will provide advising services to students in the university's School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Engineering. Access Plus Capital will host a free Business Resource Workshop on Sept. 6, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the OVCDCTribal, 1001 Tower Way, #225. The workshop will highlight various loan programs as well as offer tips on how to prepare for a loan request. Register at www.accesspluscapital.com. Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital and NAMI Kern County will host the first annual Suicide Prevention and Awareness Forum on Sept. 6, from 6-7 p.m., at 5201 White Lane. This free event will cover mental health, suicide awareness and prevention as well as ways to become an advocate. Email RSVPs to teena.bensusen@ bakersfieldbehavioral.com by Sept. 4. The Bakersfield Village Fest will take place on Sept. 8, at 6 p.m., at the Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. There will be a beer and wine garden, food, live music and more. Proceeds benefit Children's Advocates Resource Endowment. Visit www.bakersfieldvillagefest.com for more details. The Kern County Superintendent of Schools is seeking volunteers for the annual Kern County Community

Reading Project. Volunteers spend one hour each week working with local students, and are required to attend a two-hour training session on guided reading techniques. Training sessions will be held Sept. 8, 12 and 13 at the City Centre, 1300 17th St. For more information, call 661-631-4645. The Kern County Superintendent of Schools will host the 19th annual Kern County College Night on Sept. 10, from 5-8 p.m., at the Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. The free event will feature more than 100 colleges and universities that will provide information as well as breakout sessions on college life. American Kids Sports Center will host a free National Gymnastics Day event on Sept. 15, from 3-5:15 p.m., at its northwest location, 3622 Allen Road. There will be obstacle courses for all ages, face painting and more. Sign up at www.aksc.com. Tickets to the 12th annual Kern County Energy Summit go on sale on Sept. 17. Hosted by the Kern Economic Development Corporation, this year’s event will be held on Nov. 7, from 7:30-11:30 a.m.., at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bakersfield, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. This event explores current challenges and opportunities facing the petroleum, utility and renewable energy industries. For more information, visit www.kedc.com. The Income Property Association of Kern will host its September Luncheon on Sept. 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Chalet Basque, 200 Oak St. Learn about PG&E’s Multi-Family program. To RSVP, visit http://www. incomepropertyassociationofkern.com. The Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® will host its Region 12 Luncheon on Sept. 19, at 11:30

a.m., at Seven Oaks Country Club, 2000 Grand Lakes Ave. The event will feature California Association of REALTORS®’s President Steve White. Send RSVPs by Sept. 12 to cindy@bakersfieldrealtor.org. America’s Job Center will host an Innovative Workforce Training Seminar on Sept. 19, from 1-4 p.m., at Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. Robin Paggi, of Worklogic HR, will discuss topics including onboarding tools, work opportunity tax credits and more. Please RSVP to hudginsc@kerncounty.com. The Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® is seeking nominations to recognize its members for their exemplary service to the organization, profession and community. The four categories include REALTOR, Salesperson, The Rising Star and Affiliate of the Year. Nominations must be submitted by Sept. 21 to claudia@bakersfieldrealtor.org. The Golden Empire Gleaners will host the 33rd annual Business & Industry Leaders Breakfast on Sept. 20, at 7 a.m., at The Petroleum Club, 5060 California Ave., Suite 1200. The event will provide updates from the Gleaners. RSVPs must be sent by Sept. 7 to info@goldenempiregleaners.com. CASA of Kern County will host its 25th Anniversary Celebration on Sept. 22, from 6-10 p.m., at the Delamater Ranch Estate. The event will celebrate CASA’s history and accomplishments. To purchase tickets, visit www.kerncasa.org. Hall Ambulance Service, Inc. will host the first annual Strides for CJD 5K/ Walk on Oct. 7 at Lake Ming. The event will honor former Mayor Harvey L. Hall, who passed away from CJD earlier this CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 METRO | PAGE 17

NEW MEMBERS We’d like to extend a warm welcome to the companies who have joined the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Thank you for investing in our mission to provide a healthy business climate in Kern County. If you know of a company interested in joining, please contact Andrea Johnston at ajohnston@bakersfieldchamber.org. AAA Quality Services, Inc. 5800 S. Union Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93307 661-833-5510 https://www.aaaqsinc.com “We offer fire extinguisher sales and services, hood suppression systems, annual sprinkler service, hood installations, first aid supplies and fire school classroom training.” Acupuncture & Herbs 3850 Riverlakes Dr., #C Bakersfield, CA 93312 661-589-0240 www.acu-herb.net “We provide the services of acupuncture, herbal supplements and massage therapy. We specialize in pain management, stress release, internal conditions with customize herbal remedies, personal injury (auto accidents) and workers’ compensation.” Bland Company dba Bland Roofing 8200 Stockdale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93311 661-836-3880 www.BlandCompany.com “At Bland Company, we recognize that what we do has a direct impact on our customers’ lives. And that’s exciting! Whether someone is interested in solar, roofing, or air conditioning services, we handle it all. Bland is headquartered in Bakersfield and our service area is the entire Central Valley and Central Coast.” Bland Company dba Bland Solar 8200 Stockdale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93311 661-836-3880 www.BlandCompany.com

“At Bland Company, we recognize that what we do has a direct impact on our customers’ lives. And that’s exciting! Whether someone is interested in solar, roofing, or air conditioning services, we handle it all. Bland is headquartered in Bakersfield and our service area is the entire Central Valley and Central Coast.” Centric Health 5080 California Ave., Ste. 420 Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-371-2767 www.centrichcare.com "Centric Health was established in 2016, as a multi-specialty group practice that encompasses many of the most distinguished providers in Bakersfield who have served this community for decades." Nutrishop Bakersfield 9000 Ming Ave., Ste. T3 Bakersfield, CA 93311 661-885-7444 http://www.nutrishopbakersfield.com “Nutrishop carries top brands with guaranteed low prices, and we have an extensive selection of the latest cutting-edge supplements and free InBody analysis. We provide exceptional customer service and are committed to assisting our customers in getting results!” Studio Movie Grill 2733 Calloway Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93312 661-535-2292 https://www.studiomoviegrill.com “Our theaters feature custom recliners, the latest digital projection and sound combined with an American Grill menu and premium bar for an unmatched cinema experience.”

Office Space For Lease ──── Ask us about our “$99 Moves you in” special. ──── Offices range from 512 sq. ft through 1,117 sq. ft. ────

ATA Properties 1701 Westwind Dr. Suite 216 Bakersfield, Ca 93301 PH: (661) 404-5042 FAX: (661) 404-5043

HOW WE WORK FOR OUR MEMBERS Trusted Advocacy

A Strong Brand

Members-Only Benefits

We fight job-killing legislation and work hard to maintain a favorable business climate in Bakersfield and Kern County.

Near universal name recognition and the highest positive rating among similar business organizations.

Includes notary public services, marketing opportunities, certificates of origin, ribbon cuttings and more.

Compliance

Lasting Connections

Invaluable Promotion

We provide the tools, resources and access to keep members in the know about California’s always-changing laws and latest HR topics.

Bridge the gap between nonprofits, small businesses and large corporations with mixers, procurement events and our Ambassador Committee.

We receive hundreds of inquires and we only refer our members. Your listing in our online and annual printed directories is also seen by thousands.

METRO | PAGE 18

RENEWING MEMBERS Thank you to our members who have reinvested in the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Your continued support helps the Chamber continue its mission to ensure a healthy business climate for our community.

SEPTEMBER 2018 9.4.18

BYP Council Noon | Chamber Philanthropy on Tap 5:30 p.m. | Temblor Brewing Co.

9.6.18

Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Council 7:30 a.m. | Chamber Pancakes & Partnerships Procurement Breakfast 7:30 a.m. | Klein DeNatale Goldner

9.7.18

Governmental Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Chamber

9.10.18

Youth Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Council 11:45 a.m. | Chamber

9.12.18

Business Expo 4 p.m. | DoubleTree by Hilton

9.14.18

Governmental Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Larry E. Reider Education Center

9.18.18

Beautiful Bakersfield Committee Noon | Chamber BCCPAC Fundraiser 5:30 p.m. | Temblor Brewing Co.

9.20.18

Labor Law & HR Forum 7:30 a.m. | Chamber

9.21.18

Governmental Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Chamber

9.25.18

Ambassador Committee Noon | Chamber

9.27.18

Chamber After Hours Mixer 5:30 p.m. | Belcourt at Seven Oaks

9.28.18

Governmental Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Chamber For more information about any of our events, committees or councils, visit bakersfieldchamber.org.

Advanced Endoscopy Center – 2008 AltaOne Federal Credit Union – Riverwalk Office – 2012 Autism Society – Kern Autism Network – 2015 Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital – 2016 Bakersfield Condors Hockey – 1995 Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra – 1994 Berry Petroleum Company, LLC – 1997 Bland Company dba Bland Air Conditioning – 2015 California City Landowners Association – 2014 California Employers Association – 2017 California Veterans Assistance Foundation Inc. (CVAF) – 2009 Century 21/Jordan-Link & Co. – 2009 Classic Charter, Inc. – 2010 Countryside Market & Restaurants – 2017 Darlene Din Ag Land Use/Public Policy Consultant – 2011 Elite Auctions and Fundraising Services – 2015 Environmental Sound Solutions, Inc. – 2010 Golden Empire Concrete – 1989 Golden Empire Fleet Service – 2008 Good Samaritan Hospital – 2011 Greenlawn Funeral Homes, Cemeteries & Cremations – 2007

Grimmway Enterprises Inc. dba Grimmway Farms – 2008 Independent Living Center of Kern County – 2017 Kelly Management – 2010 Kern Dance Alliance – 2017 Krush Wine, Bar & Restaurant – 2014 Law Office of Kyle W. Jones – 2013 LifeHouse Bakersfield Healthcare Center – 2015 March Consulting – 2013 Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue – 2017 Murray Family Farms, Inc. – 2004 Neuva Aesthetics Medical Spa – 2016 New Life Medical – 2016 Optimal Hospice Care – 1998 Ordiz-Melby Architects, Inc. – 1996 Pacific Advisors – 2004 Pac-Van, Inc. – 2009 Parsons Corp. – 2006 Rabobank Arena Theater & Convention Center – 1998 Realty Management Services – 2010 Seneca Resources Corp. – 2016 Stria – 2005 Taft College – 2008 3D Imaging Systems – 2001 TPx Communications – 1991 United Security Bank – 2004 Kern County Veterans Service Department – 2014 Willis and Williams Design Studios – 2012 Woodland Furniture – 2017 Yogurtland – 2011

MEMBER NEWS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

year. Registration begins at 9 a.m. To donate or register, visit www.strides4cjd.com The Income Property Association of Kern and the United Way of Kern County will host the California Landlord Summit on Homelessness Luncheon on Oct. 16, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bakersfield, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. Seating for the event is limited. For more information or to purchase tickets, email directors@ipaknet.org. Jess Smith & Sons Cotton is looking to fill an open position within its growing purchasing department. The company is a cotton merchandising firm that specializes in marketing cotton bales for U.S. farmers directly to textile mills globally. Email inquiries to stephen@jesssmith.com.

The Bakersfield Museum of Art is now accepting resumes for off-site educators. These positions are parttime, and an art-education background is preferred. Please send resumes to employment@bmoa.org. Adventist Health Bakersfield will partner with COPE Health Solutions to launch the COPE Health Scholars program. During the program, students will experience the health care sector in both clinical and administrative settings. Students will also be introduced to a wide array of career options. Check out https:// copehealthscholars.org/admissions/ how-to-apply. Celebrate the magic of the holidays at Six Flags Magic Mountain with over 1.5 million lights, holiday entertainment, falling snow and so much more. The magic begins on Nov. 17. For more information, call Jackie Rieth at 661-255-4739. METRO | PAGE 19

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE FOCUS

2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairwoman of the Board Carla Musser Retired Chairwoman Elect of the Board Darlene Mohlke Castle & Cooke California, Inc. Vice Chair Public Policy & Political Action Don Bynum Temblor Brewing LLC Gregory D. Bynum & Associates, Inc. Vice Chair Economic Vitality Susan M. Benham Dignity Health Memorial Hospital Vice Chair Member Engagement Tasha Clayton Tel-Tec Security Systems, Inc. Vice Chair Leadership & Workforce Development Paul Anderson BetterPlan, LLC Treasurer Andy Paulden Brown Armstrong Accountants Member-at-Large Pritesh Patel Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center Immediate Past Chair Derek Abbott Tejon Ranch Company General Counsel Mark Bateman Young Wooldridge LLP

Tel-Tec Security Systems, Inc. is an independent security firm, locally owned and operated in Bakersfield, Calif. Tel-Tec designs, installs, services, maintains and monitors all of the systems that we provide. Our highest priorities are the safety and the security of our clients. We strive to provide excellence in customer service.

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE MEMBERS

BOARD MEMBERS

Mary Barlow Kern County Superintendent of Schools Kristen Beall Kern Community Foundation Dr. Sonya Christian Bakersfield College Rob Duchow Southern California Gas Company Leslie Golich Kaiser Permanente Kern County Derek Jeffery KGET-TV 17 Ronald Johns RA Johnsfam dba McDonald’s Denise Newton Pacific Gas & Electric Company G Riar Deprigo Tom Saba Saba Agency Ricardo Villarreal Wells Fargo

EVERYTHING FOR YOUR OFFICE

CHAMBER STAFF Nick Ortiz | President/CEO Jean Scheiber | Vice President/ Chief Operating Officer Patrice Black | Member Relations Coordinator Kaelyn De Leon | Manager, Policy & Public Affairs Hillary Haenes | Vice President, Member Engagement Andrea Johnston | Business Development Manager Melissa Rossiter | Manager of Marketing & Communications Sarah Hinzo | Executive Assistant, Leadership & Operations Janet Ursery | Executive Assistant, Information Services

METRO | PAGE 20

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