Metro August 2024 by Greater Bakersfield Chamber

A DECADE TOGETHER

LET THE GAMES BEGIN

ere's nothing like a little friendly competition to keep your mind sharp and your body in tune. And at Highgate Regents, Bakers eld's premier gated, master planned, active adult community, you'll have lots of new friends to compete with. Whether it's a lively game of pickleball, a refreshing dip in the pool, a relaxing evening grilling steaks on the Regency Club patio, or a special event organized by a community group or our social director, there's always something interesting to do in Highgate Regents.

When you're ready to start enjoying life more, come to Highgate Regents, where there's more life to enjoy.

Learn

about the 2024 "A Better Bakersfield" winner, Children

Learn

Read about mastering the art of communication

Celebrate The Outlets at Tejon's 10th anniversary

Metro is the official publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. 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 info@bakochamber.com.

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Celebrating Community Achievements

Highlighting the Successes and Impact of Local Businesses and Events

Dear Chamber Members,

As we enter the back-to-school season and celebrate Labor Day, we want to shine a spotlight on some of our property management company members in Kern County who oversee some of our favorite shopping destinations.

This month, our cover commemorates the 10th anniversary of the Outlets at Tejon. This lively shopping center is a favorite spot for back-to-school shopping and family entertainment. With safety features, pet-friendly services and over 50 retail stores offering amazing deals, the Outlets are the perfect place to "Shop and Stay a While."

For an in-depth look at the outlet's 10th anniversary and impact on our community, be sure to check out the inside cover story, where we share all the details. You can also explore retail centers by Castle and Cooke and Bolthouse Properties.

In August, the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2024 had an informative "Communications Through Media" day. They explored crisis communication and interacted with our local media. The students also learned valuable crisis communication strategies from Jill Wagner of Idea Emporium and engaged in an exercise with feedback from media professionals such as Amber Chiang, Christine Peterson, Bob Price and Ralph Bailey.

We also enjoyed attending the 45th annual California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce Statewide Convention. Kudos to Jay Tamsi, President and CEO of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and his team for hosting a dynamic and informative event showcasing Kern County's best. This convention was a powerful reminder of the impact and success of Hispanicowned businesses across California.

Our Chamber representatives also participated in the High Sierra Workshop hosted by Southern California Edison at Big Creek. We observed the incredible work being done with the Big Creek Hydroelectric Project, which plays a crucial role in California's clean energy and water supply.

Lastly, we held our 2024 mid-year update Labor Law & HR Forum, which was well attended by business leaders across the community. We look forward to seeing you at our following forum on Sept. 18, where we’ll discuss the complex subject of Leaves of Absence with insights from Attorney Jerry Pearson of Young Wooldridge, LLP.

The Chamber extends our thanks to everyone who attended, supported, and contributed to the success of these events. We are also excited to welcome 37 new members to our Chamber community and celebrate the largest Ambassador Committee meeting to date, with over 90 attendees.

Your continued dedication to our community drives our shared success. Here’s to more growth and achievements in the months to come!

Blessings, Janelle Capra President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber

visions, collaboration, and inspiration. Our small organization, Children First, received nominations in two categories this year and won in the category of "A Better Bakersfield."

Children First is an organization that encompasses the values and compassion needed to reach some of our most underserved community members. We see the needs of East Bakersfield and are deeply connected through our own experiences, enabling our board to proceed with heart and understanding. Each of us wants to help unlock positive outcomes for children, individuals, and families in East Bakersfield and beyond.

The adrenaline rush after hearing our name called for the award was indescribable. We began seeing flashes of our months and years of efforts scrolling in our minds, like an instant reminder of why what we do is so important. Moments like this help reassure us that we're heading in the right direction, even as caring contributors to this community.

Receiving the A Better Bakersfield Award filled our team with newfound energy and determination to continue striving for better. This award recognizes our past efforts and is a catalyst for our future endeavors. Although Children First has many dynamic programs, the East Bakersfield Festival

is an event through which we can reach a larger audience, creating lasting memories for everyone who attends for years to come.

As a committee, we wanted to create an event that could remove some financial obstacles and still provide opportunities for culture, music, fun, resources, and community to intersect. While at the festival, there's so much love in Jefferson Park, and you can feel it in every person and child you pass by.

Not only did we have the opportunity to relive our hard work and vision for a brighter future, but we also had the opportunity to see some of our peers' impact over the last 12 months. Bakersfield has some mighty, influential individuals, groups, and organizations; having them all in one room is truly a gift. It was incredible to walk away with an award that evening, but it was even more impactful to be reignited with purpose and hope that together, we are all making this community a truly beautiful Bakersfield.

Natasha Felkins, Children First Chairwoman

Exploring the Power of Big Creek: Chamber Representatives Attend Southern California Edison’s High Sierra Workshop

Our Chamber representatives, Vice President Kami Gonzalez and Senior Manager Savanah Adams were honored to participate in Southern California Edison’s (SCE) High Sierra Workshop at Big Creek.

Hosted by SCE's Government Relations Manager, Cal Rossi, the workshop provided an in-depth look at the Big Creek Hydroelectric Project, a cornerstone in California’s clean energy landscape. The Big Creek Hydroelectric Project, often dubbed “the hardest working water in the world,” has generated clean, efficient energy since its inception in 1913.

The system comprises nine powerhouses, 23 generating units, six reservoirs, and 27 dams, with a combined capacity of 1,000 megawatts of hydroelectric power.

This project supplies energy to Southern California and partners with local, state, and federal agencies to deliver vital water resources from the Sierra Nevada watershed to communities across the Central Valley.

During the workshop, our Chamber representatives, alongside other notable figures such as Kings County Supervisors Doug Verboon and Rusty Robinson, Tehachapi City Manager Greg Garrett, and Executive Director of Delta View Water Association Rachel Glauser, toured key facilities including Power House 1, Dam 4, Shaver Lake, and Eastwood Power Station. The tour highlighted Big Creek’s pivotal role in Southern California Edison’s Pathway 2045 blueprint, aimed at meeting the

state’s long-term electrification and sustainability goals.

In addition to its energy contributions, Big Creek supports recreational activities for thousands of visitors annually and plays a critical role in environmental stewardship within the Sierra National Forest.

Our Chamber is proud to have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the innovation and dedication driving California’s clean energy future. The experience underscored the importance of industry, government, and community collaboration in achieving our state’s ambitious environmental goals.

Class of 2024 Masters Communication through Media

The 2024 Leadership Bakersfield Class participated in a "Communications Through Media" day on Friday, Aug. 9. The day focused on equipping future leaders with essential media and communication skills. The class learned about crisis communication, news production and media relations from local media outlets and communications professionals. This immersive experience highlighted the importance of media literacy in leadership roles, especially during times of crisis.

The day began with a focus on crisis communication, a crucial skill for any leader. At CSU Bakersfield's new Media Arts Center, the class learned best practices for managing media scrutiny during a crisis. Jill Wagner, founder of Idea Emporium, led a session on handling high-pressure situations, emphasizing the importance of clarity, transparency and control when delivering messages in the heat of the moment.

Students then put theory into practice, engaging in a crisis communication exercise facilitated by CSU Bakersfield’s Department of Communication Lecturer Amber Chiang, MS, APR, where they received personalized feedback from a panel of seasoned media professionals, including Christine Peterson of The Bakersfield Californian, Bob Price of KGET-TV 17, and Ralph Bailey of Kern Radio.

Another critical objective of Media Day was to demystify the news production process and understand what makes a story newsworthy. The class visited Alpha Media Group's studios. General Manager Jeremy Price provided a behind-

the-scenes look at how to craft public service announcements and explained their role in community engagement.

After that, they visited KGET-TV 17, where Assistant News Director Erica Garewal led a session on how to get news coverage for an organization, sharing invaluable tips on how to pitch stories that resonate with journalists and audiences.

The day concluded with a focus on media relations and building strong, collaborative relationships with local media outlets. At KGET-TV 17 studios, students toured the facilities and participated in on-air interviews with Studio 17 Host Shannon MacNeil.

You can watch each team’s guest appearance on KGET.com’s Studio 17 Live. The day ended on a celebratory note, with an Olympic watch party hosted by KGET-TV 17’s Vice President and General Manager Derek Jeffrey. The party provided a relaxed setting for participants to reflect on the day’s lessons and network with media professionals.

Media Day highlighted the vital role media literacy plays in effective leadership. Understanding how to craft and deliver a message under pressure, knowing what makes a story newsworthy, and building relationships with local media are essential skills for leaders looking to make an impact.

The Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2024 walked away with a deeper understanding of engaging with the media and promoting their messages to a broader audience.

The success of Media Day would not have been

possible without the generous support of KGET-TV 17, Hey Salty, Inc., CSU Bakersfield, Idea Emporium, The Bakersfield Californian, Kern Radio, and Alpha Media Group. Special thanks go to the day’s committee chairs, KGET TV-17 News Anchor Alex Fisher and Joel Paramo, President of the PRSA Central California Chapter and Director at Hey Salty, Inc., for orchestrating a learning, collaboration and growth-filled day.

The lessons from Media Day will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2024 as they continue their journey as communicators and leaders in our community.

Interested in Sponsoring Leadership Bakersfield?

If you're inspired by Media Day's impact and the meaningful work accomplished by Leadership Bakersfield participants, seize the opportunity to become a day sponsor for the 2025 cohort.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at info@bakochamber.com.

Program Underwriter:

The Outlets at Tejon

Celebrating a decade of growing and giving back

The Outlets at Tejon, part of the Tejon Ranch Commerce Center (TRCC), recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. This milestone marks a decade of growth, success, and continued community support. Since its grand opening on Aug. 7, 2014, the Outlets have evolved into a carefully curated shopping destination with over 50 retail stores. It currently boasts 90 percent occupancy and sees increasing foot traffic every year.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the 10-year journey of the Outlets at Tejon, which plays a crucial role in the broader ecosystem that Tejon Ranch is cultivating,” said Becca Bland, Director of Corporate Communication and Marketing at Tejon Ranch Company.

She shared that the Outlets pride themselves on “providing jobs for Kern and North LA residents, offering an exceptional shopping experience with great value and hosting beautiful events that our shoppers look forward to year after year.”

Tejon Ranch Commerce Center has created 5,000 jobs, bolstering the economies of surrounding cities such as Bakersfield, Arvin, and Lancaster.

Looking to the future, Bland anticipates upcoming projects, such as the ranch’s Terra Vista at Tejon residential development, which will provide additional support for the Outlets. and the two

developments can work together to provide events for both shoppers and residents.

Guests are drawn in by the safe, welcoming atmosphere and design inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding area. This shopping destination hosts a wide array of brands, provides pet-friendly amenities and offers a range of food vendors to cater to different tastes and preferences.

The Outlets enhance visitors' overall experience by providing strollers, ample parking space, clean bathrooms and one of the biggest Tesla charging stations in the nation.

“These amenities make for a fun family trip or a stop to recharge during a long drive,” said Bland. “It’s a true place to live, work, and play.”

She explained that community is at the heart of everything they do. “As a company, our goal is to create a thriving community,” said Bland.

As a way of doing this, the Outlets have created a variety of free-to-low-cost monthly activities, such as an annual car show, their Back-to-School Bonanza, and several holiday celebrations that are greatly anticipated by shoppers each year.

Bland went on to share about one of her favorite events. “We hosted an outdoor movie event during the pandemic, and we saw over 300 cars attend

from the comfort of their own vehicle, which was a huge testament to how people needed community,” said Bland as she recalled the challenging time. The Outlets at Tejon consistently give back to the community by supporting various causes, including the Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County, Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Wounded Heroes Fund. In celebration of the Back-to-School season and the Outlets at Tejon’s 10th anniversary, Tejon Ranch and the Outlets gifted 10 teachers a $500 Visa gift card for their classroom.

“We had some amazing feedback about how it helped offset the cost of additional supplies that teachers purchase throughout the year to give their students a better learning experience,” said Bland. She also credits the Outlets at Tejon’s ongoing success to its ability to attract quality tenants who can meet changing customer needs and perspectives, particularly with the increasing dominance of e-commerce.

The Outlets host a diverse mix of large corporations and small businesses, offering opportunities for new stores to join. “We can work with small and large businesses, examine their needs, and figure out how to accommodate them,” said Bland.

She highlighted a few of her favorite examples. When Ariat joined the Outlets at Tejon, it became one of the highest-performing Ariat retail stores nationwide because of the huge population of farmers and ranchers in the area. It even attracted customers from as far away as Mexico. The store offers innovative and award-winning performance clothing products for outdoor and work environments.

Anco Sports, a small business owned by Los Angeles residents who discovered the Outlets while charging their Tesla at the station, has also thrived since setting up shop at the retail destination. Ricocita’s Sweets, a locally owned food truck, is a customer favorite and can also be found on location. Bland encourages businesses of all kinds to consider the Outlets at Tejon when deciding on a location to start or grow their businesses.

If you are interested in being a tenant at the Outlets, contact Jen Natto at jnatto@tejonoutlets.com. For more information, visit tejonoutlets.com.

Belcourt Village

Bolthouse Properties

Belcourt Village, nestled at the corner of White Lane and Buena Vista Road within the Seven Oaks master-planned community, offers a perfect blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation, with most businesses being locally owned and operated.

Managed by Bolthouse Properties, this vibrant retail hub provides a peaceful retreat from the everyday hustle. Whether you're preparing for back-to-school shopping at Apricot Lane or Pilates Barre, treating yourself to a blowout at Drybar, or savoring a meal at 19th Hole Bar and Grill or Toastique, Belcourt Village has it all. What truly sets this destination apart are the thoughtfully designed social spaces, inviting visitors to unwind and experience the unique, communityfocused atmosphere that permeates the center.

To learn more visit bolthouseproperties.com.

The Shops at River Walk Castle and Cooke

The Shops at River Walk, managed by Castle & Cooke, is the go-to destination for Bakersfield residents seeking a top-notch shopping experience. Consistently voted “Best Shopping Center” in the Bakersfield Californian Readers' Choice Poll, this premier center offers a vibrant mix of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Hosting iconic retailers like DSW, Nordstrom Rack, and BevMo, alongside popular dining spots such as Yard House, Eureka! and La Costa Mariscos, The Shops at River Walk continues to evolve, introducing exciting new additions to its impressive lineup. With over 40 stores and eateries, plus ample parking, it’s clear why the community keeps coming back. Whether shopping, dining or simply enjoying a day out, The Shops at River Walk offers a seamless blend of convenience and excitement.

Discover what makes The Shops at River Walk the favorite shopping destination in Bakersfield by visiting today or exploring their offerings online at shopsatriverwalk.com

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to the companies that have joined the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Thank you for investing in our mission to Build a Better Bakersfield.

American Heart Association

7272 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 85231

661-655-8304

heart.org

“For 100 years, the American Heart Association, along with our volunteers, supporters and collaborating organizations, has worked to build longer, healthier lives.”

Berkshire Hathaway Home Service Associated Real Estate

9700 Stockdale Hwy. Suite 307

Bakersfield, CA 93311

310-529-2980

bhhassociated.com

California Cardiovascular Institute

8337 Brimhall Rd. #1200 Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-443-0088

cacvinst.com

“California Cardiovascular Institute has a highly experienced team offering complete cardiac and vascular care to patients 18 years and older. We offer comprehensive, compassionate, and individualized treatment for all cardiac problems, from heart disease to circulatory system disorders such as chronic venous insufficiency and problematic varicose veins.”

Fifth Third Bank

5701 Truxtun Ave. Suite 220

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-565-5352

www.53.com

“Founded in 1858, Fifth Third is a leading regional bank. Local relationship managers understand the needs of companies with revenues from $20 million-$500 million.”

Flood Bakersfield Ministries, Inc.

1830 Truxtun Ave. Suite 210

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-323-5663

floodbako.com

“Flood exists to reach out and engage those in our community struggling in homelessness, linking them to resources and services through the supportive housing process."

Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards and Boxes

13061 Rosedale Hwy. Suite H

Bakersfield, CA 93314

661-218-9181

grazecraze.com

“At Graze Craze, we believe in CELEBRATING EVERYTHING! We elevate your culinary experiences for anything from corporate meetings, to events like weddings or holiday parties.”

Hilda Pomales Cleaning

11713 Mantova Ave.

Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-889-6741

“Domestic, commercial, building, apartment, janitorial cleaning. Sub-contracting cleaning. Licensed, bonded, and insured.”

Jay Bhavani Indian Street Food

5760 Stine Rd.

Bakersfield, CA 93313

661-459-5629

“Authentic Indian street food.”

Le Cave Vin & Cuisine

12716 Stockdale Hwy. Suite 100

Bakersfield, CA 93314

661-840-8729 lecavewine.com

“Le Cave offers the wine enthusiast a complete range of options. We have a wine bar, full bar with spirits, and a restaurant. Guests can pair food and wine as well as shop in our store for wines from all major wine regions on the globe. We offer 55-degree wine locker rental storage onsite as well.”

LinkEd Public Schools 1701 18th St. Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-699-0564 linkedpublicschools.org

“LinkEd Public Schools is a non-profit that operates the Central Academy of Arts and Technology - a K-8th grade free, public charter school.”

Mary Kay Cosmetics - Valerie Otterness

6325 Crestmore St. Bakersfield, CA 93308

661-565-4238 www.marykay.com/votterness

Nanette Yabiku Coaching LLC 12005 Ernestina Ct. Bakersfield, CA 93306

661-333-8686

www.nanetteyabiku.com

“Nanette Yabiku Coaching LLC serves school districts, small businesses, and growth-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference in their lives and the lives of others. We help organizations increase their influence through leadership development, personal growth training, and coaching.

PAC West Systems

521 E 21st St.

Bakersfield, CA 93305

661-395-1448

www.pacwestsystemsca.com

“Our mission is to provide professional audio and video systems to enhance efficiency, productivity, and creativity to businesses, festivals, and venues. We are dedicated to provide top-notch solutions that elevate the AV experience and utilize state of the art equipment.”

Safety Training Seminars

2116 24th St. Suite 2

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-310-3432

www.bakersfieldcprcourses.com

“We teach CPR and First-aid Classes.”

Synchrony Medical Group

9500 Stockdale Hwy., Suite 100

Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-310-3432

synchronymedicalgroup.com

“Founded by Dr. G Mangat with a priority of personalized healthcare to embody a fusion of compassion, expertise, and accessibility for our patients.”

TopFlight MSP

4900 California Ave.

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-549-7646

www.TopFlightMSP.com

“We empower our partners to harness technology as a catalyst for growth, while implementing top-tier cybersecurity measures to safeguard their assets.”

US Commercial Service

801 R St. Suite 201 Fresno, CA 93721

559-341-7137

www.trade.gov/california-bakersfield

“The International Trade Administration is the premier resource and key partner for American companies competing in the global marketplace.”

Valley Center for the Blind 2520 H St. A/B Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-865-5115

www.myvcb.org

“We support, train, and employ people who are blind or have low vision.”

UPCOMING EVENTS

September 2024

Monday, Sept. 2

Labor Day

Chamber closed

Tuesday, Sept. 3

GRC

Noon | Chamber

Wednesday, Sept. 4

Ribbon Cutting - Leadership Bakersfield Team 4 Project

11 a.m. | 1725 19th St.

Wednesday, Sept. 18

Labor Law & HR Forum

8 a.m. | Chamber

Friday, Sept. 20

GRC

8 a.m. | Chamber

Tuesday, Sept. 24

Ambassador Committee Luncheon

Noon | Adventist Health

Thursday, Sept. 26

Ribbon Cutting - Leadership Bakersfield Team 2 Project

11 a.m. | 1304 Oildale Dr.

RENEWING MEMBERS

Thank you for reinvesteing in the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Your investment helps the Chamber continue its mission to Build a Better Bakersfield.

AAA Quality Services - 2018

All American Glass Co. - 2009

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra - 1994

Berry Petroleum Company, LLC - 1997

Cellan Central Valley College - 2022

Century 21 Jordan-Link & Co. - Jeanne Radsick - 2009

Glinn and Giordano Physical Therapy - 2019

Golden Empire Concrete Sales - 1989

Greenlawn Funeral Homes, Cemeteries & Cremations2007

Grimmway Enterprises Inc. dba Grimmway Farms2008

Habitat for Humanity Golden Empire - ReStore SW2016

Hoffmann Hospice - 1996

Laurel Ag & Water - 2019

Legacy Staffing Solutions, Inc. - 2022

Maison Law - 2023

Mechanics Bank Arena Theater & Convention Center1998

Mossman's Catering - 2016

Pro Business Valuations, LLC - 2022

S.C. Anderson - 1990

Smithco Surveying Engineering - 2022

Solace Healthcare, Inc. DBA Solace Hospice Care -2021

Sparkle Uniform & Linen Service - 2021

Tri Counties Bank - California Ave. - 2009

Unitek College - 2018

MEMBER NEWS

Houchin Community Blood Bank urgently seeks donations in August. Blood is critically needed during "The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer" between Memorial Day and Labor Day when inventory drops dangerously low. Summer months strain the blood supply due to steady non-emergency demand and increased emergency needs. To make an appointment, please visit our website!

Make-A-Wish® Central Coast and Southern Central Valley Rams Night for Wishes Benefiting Make-A-Wish® Central Coast and Southern Central Valley on Monday, October 14, 2024 at Sherwood Country Club. Join us for the 7th Annual LA Rams Night for Wishes - a very special evening of football, food, fun, and philanthropy in support of Make-A-Wish®. LA Rams Night for Wishes will be hosted by the LA Rams at Sherwood Country Club. A limited number of sponsorships and tickets will be sold, and the event has sold out for the past 6 years! We expect over 350 influential community supporters and philanthropists in attendance again this year and we would love for you to join us. Guests will experience a special evening under the stars including a hosted cocktail reception, dinner, live and silent auctions, LA Rams players, mascot, cheerleaders, entertainment, and a celebration of wishes. Locally, Make-A-Wish grants lifechanging wishes to children living in our own community. The number of children requesting a life-changing wish is growing—over 200 sick children are currently waiting for their special wish. We need you to make these wishes happen!

For sponsorship opportunities or more information, contact us at info@cvs.wish.org or 805-676-9474, or visit https://RamsNight24.givesmart.com

Bakersfield Rehabilitation Hospital has been named in New’s Week’s “America’s Best Rehabilitation Centers in 2024”. As a corporation, Ernest Health has 13 hospitals listed for 2024. Such exciting news, especially only serving the community for over 2 years. World-Class Physical Rehabilitation care right here in Bakersfield.

The Bakersfield Racquet Club is proud to announce that we are partnering with the USTA, the ITF and Kaiser Permanente to bring professional women’s tennis to Bakersfield from October 7th-13th, 2024. This free event will be a W35 Futures Tournament featuring cash prizes totaling $25,000. This is the first annual Women's Tennis Open since 1983 when Jennifer Mundel-Reinbold won the Ginny of Bakersfield.

For sponsoring opportunities, we have partnered with Kern Community Foundation and are looking to partner with the businesses in our community to help the young women in both our community and professional tennis step towards the next level of health and fitness. As a first annual event, we are hoping to make part of this event called "serve up sisterhood" an October event that brings together Bakersfield women of all ages in our community. Don't forget to add this incredible community event to your calendars! For more information email womanstennisopenbakersfield@gmail.com or visit our website!

Dream Business Resources helps you maximize employee benefits with the Champ Plan by Champion Health! Attention Bakersfield businesses! Discover the incredible advantages of the Champ Plan by Champion Health and achieve net savings of $573 per employee per year.

• The Champ Plan offers a comprehensive suite of benefits that not only enhance your employees’ wellbeing but also boost your bottom line. With this plan, employees will see an increase in their paychecks, thanks to the tax savings, and gain access to valuable supplemental health benefits. These include coverage for critical illness, accident insurance, and more, providing peace of mind and financial security.

• Beyond the tangible benefits, the Champ Plan fosters intangible advantages such as improved worker retention. By investing in your employees' health and financial stability, you create a loyal and motivated workforce, reducing turnover and recruitment costs.

• Join the many businesses that have already experienced the positive impact of the Champ Plan. Enhance your employee benefits package, improve retention, and enjoy significant savings. Contact us today to learn more about how the Champ Plan can transform your business and benefit your employees.

If you have a minimum of 10 employees, go to our website today. Or call Cindy or Roland at 661-333-7821 with any questions.

Click here for more Member News

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS

2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman of the Board

Rob Duchow

Public Affairs Manager - Southern California Gas Company

Incoming Chairman

Deanna Blaise Valley Strong Credit Union

Immediate Past Chair

Ken Keller

Dignity Health – Bakersfield Memorial Hospital

Patrick Beck – Bakersfield Hyundai

Mark Bateman – Young Wooldridge, LLP

Molly Busacca – Secure Systems

Bruce Davis – Bolthouse Properties

Emily Duran – Kern Health Systems

Octavio Escobedo – Tejon Indian Tribe

Melissa Frank – The Wonderful Company

Kamal Gill – Brimhall Pharmacy/Panama Pharmacy

Dr. Vernon Harper – CSU Bakersfield

DeAnna Lewis – Wingstop

Maybelle Liquigan – Kaiser Permanente

Jacob Panero – Varner Bros. Inc.

Mari Perez-Dowling – United Way of Kern

Veronika Placencia – KERO-TV 23

G Riar – Riar Inc./The UPS Store

Greg Race – PG&E

Willie Rivera – Berry Corporation

CHAMBER

Janelle Capra

STAFF

President & CEO

Kami Gonzalez

Vice President, Members & Programs

Savanah Adams

Senior Manager, Policy & Public Affairs

Lorrie Guinn-Magers

Director of Operations & HR

Kimberly Price Community Events Manager

Get Social

Stay engaged and connected with what's happening at the Chamber by following us on these social media platforms. @bakochamber

The Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) provides resources to improve student education with a team of experienced teachers, administrators and community members. KCSOS provides school districts with tools to maintain a high-quality, equitable and inclusive curriculum. KCSOS also partners with public and private organizations to enhance the educational experience for all families and students.

Visit kern.org to learn more.