Metro February 2024

A publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber | February 2024

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.

Read

Message from the CEO

Grow to Build A Better Bakersfield

Celebrating Achievements, Embracing Growth and Collaborating for a Thriving Bakersfield

Welcome to the first edition of Metro for 2024, and what an amazing eight weeks it has been as your new President & CEO.

We kicked off January with the launch of the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2024, our Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon, the Government Review Council welcomed Congressional Candidate Vince Fong and the inaugural Ambassador Committee luncheon at Founders Hall, hosted by Dignity Health, Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. Additionally, we celebrated numerous ribbon cuttings and conducted a final campaign to boost nominations for the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards.

February has been a month full of “showing the love” to our local businesses through the Shop Local Shop Now campaign. Thank you to those who participated in our social media stories, and I hope you had the opportunity to support your favorite local businesses.

We are here to support you with our programs, education, resources, networking and of course, to celebrate all that makes Bakersfield, beautiful (praise report… we received a record number of nominations for the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards—thank you!).

A special shout-out to our Chamber team, Savanah Adams and Kami Gonzalez, for their support during this transition. I am also thrilled to welcome Sophie Gomez and Kimberly Price to the team officially; you can find more about them on the next page!

Today, Feb. 29, marks a leap year, offering the gift of an extra day. The Chamber will “leap” forward into a prosperous spring with a renewed spirit for connection, collaboration and creation, including the return of “Coffee with the Chamber” for new members.

We are also collaborating with Moneywise to make it even easier for you to take advantage of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber 401(k) Multiple Employer Plan and we are excited to share that we will soon launch a creative collaboration with the Kern Arts Council. Stay tuned for these opportunities and more.

Here, we "grow" to build a better Bakersfield, together!

Blessings!

Janelle Capra President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber

Kami Gonzalez, Janelle Capra, Savanah Adams

Meet our new team members

Kimberly Price Community Events Manager

We are pleased to introduce our first-ever Community Events Manager Kimberly Price (Kim). Armed with an extensive career in Marketing and Communications, and her degree in Business and Administration, from Azusa Pacific University, Kim brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of commitment to community engagement.

“As a dedicated and long-time resident of this vibrant city, I am excited to join the Greater Bakersfield Chamber,” she said. “My professional journey reflects my commitment to community engagement and my passion for cultivating positive connections within our city.”

Notably, Kim held the title of Mrs. Bakersfield in 2018 and with a rich history of volunteerism, Kim successfully transitioned into the role of Events Coordinator for The Bakersfield Pageant . She will continue serving in this capacity while with the Chamber.

Kim is also proud of her work collaborating with JJ’s Legacy, contributing to initiatives like the Got the Dot Leadership Program. Her background in education provides her valuable opportunities to connect and work with the youth of our city.

We are confident that she will bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and a passion for fostering positive connections within our city. Please join us in welcoming Kim to the Chamber family.

Sophie Gomez Administrative Assistant

Welcome our new Administrative Assistant, Sophie Gomez. A native of Bakersfield, Sophie returned home in December 2023 after residing in between Arizona and Texas for 12 years.

She joins us at the Chamber with over 7 years of experience at one of the world's largest airlines, where she honed her skills in operations. Sophie holds a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix.

"I am truly dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and am deeply invested in fostering growth toward a Better Bakersfield," said Sophie.

Her attention to detail and strong work ethic will undoubtedly prove to be instrumental in her responsibilities at the Chamber.

In addition to her professional commitments, Sophie, a mother to a precious little boy, actively engages in volunteer work at her local church and within the community.

“I enjoy volunteering at my local church, thus I am very blessed to be a part of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber,” she said.

Sophie’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of professionalism is showcased through her efforts.

Join us in extending a warm welcome to Sophie as she joins the Chamber and returns to California!

2023 Beautiful Bakersfield Award Recipient – Young Professional

Being honored as the Young Professional of the Year at the 2023 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards gala was an unexpected and deeply humbling experience. I felt privileged to stand alongside such accomplished individuals that evening.

While the recognition was bestowed upon me individually, it was only possible with the support of my cherished network of family, friends and colleagues. My nurturing and encouraging parents instilled in me a strong work ethic and a commitment to service, qualities that have guided me throughout my journey. I also owe immense gratitude to my mentors, including my business partner, whose guidance has been invaluable in navigating the responsibilities of practice ownership.

Central to my journey has been the steadfast encouragement of my wife, Dr. Betty Shum, whose unwavering support has been a constant source of inspiration. Her belief in me has allowed me the freedom to pursue my passions and contribute to our community wholeheartedly.

What truly resonated with me about receiving this award was the platform it provided to spotlight the organizations and causes I hold dear.

As an Eagle Scout of local Troop 712 and now Council President of the Southern Sierra Council of the Boy Scouts of America, I am committed to guiding the next generation of local leaders.

Serving on the board of the Bakersfield Youth Symphony Orchestra (BYSO) allows me to pay forward the musical inspiration I received as an alum.

Lastly, my involvement with the Advanced Center for Eyecare (ACE), a local nonprofit serving the underserved and uninsured of Kern County, has been profoundly rewarding. Witnessing the transformative impact of each surgery on the lives of patients and their families reaffirms my dedication to making a difference in our community.

Looking ahead, I invite everyone to join me in supporting the upcoming concerts of BYSO and the BC/CSUB Combined Orchestra, where I play the violin. I am also excited for “Give Big Kern” on May 7, Kern County’s official day of giving. Last year we raised over $17,000 for ACE to provide sightrestoring surgeries and school-based vision care for underprivileged children.

As Albert Einstein famously said, “A life lived for others is a life worthwhile,” and I invite anyone wishing to learn more about or contribute to any of the organizations I represent to reach out at akao@ empireeyeandlaser.com. Together, let us continue to uplift and empower our community through service and collaboration!

Andrew A Kao, M.D. Cataract Surgeon Comprehensive Ophthalmology Ocular Oncology Empire Eye and Laser Center

Sponsored by

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

To celebrate Black History Month this February, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber highlighted a black-owned Chamber member business each week on its social media to recognize and shine a light on just a few of the many black-owned businesses in Bakersfield. Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of Black Americans and highlight their contributions to the community.

“We encourage everyone to support Blackowned businesses not just this month, but all year,” said Janelle Capra, Chamber President and CEO. “Supporting these businesses ensures that we are taking steps towards a more inclusive society.”

During Black History Month and throughout the year, the Chamber encourages you to support black-owned businesses.

“As Black History Month comes to a close, let’s continue to celebrate and support the achievements of those around us,” said Capra.

WINGSTOP

The Chamber kicked off the month-long celebration with recognition of successful entrepreneurs Clint and DeAnna Lewis, who manage five Wingstop and four Fatburger franchises. Since they first opened Wingstop in 2006, the couple has earned numerous corporate awards, bringing a wealth of experience, education, business talent and dedication to the Bakersfield community.

As the Chamber highlighted these members, the love and support for these business owners poured in!

On LinkedIn, Andrea Caldwell, the Director of Stepping Stones Youth Development Program enthusiastically wrote,

"Congratulations to the longevity, perseverance and passion of community from this "Dynamic Duo!!”

Tel-Tec Security Systems, founded by Morgan Clayton, has protected businesses in Bakersfield since 1982. The company has grown into a fullservice security firm supporting businesses throughout central California. Renowned for their innovative solutions to security challenges, they proudly serve numerous small and large businesses from hospitals, schools, banks and shopping facilities.

“Morgan is one of our community’s greatest champions and amazing human,” said Steve Sanders, Chief of Staff at Kern County Superintendent of Schools in his LinkedIn comment. “Thank you for all you do!”

TEL-TEC

NO SISTER LEFT BEHIND

FLAWLESS CUTZ AND STYLEZ

Finally, the Chamber recognized Flawless Cutz and Stylez, owned by Deedi Stuart. This hair salon offers services for the whole family, from cuts, coloring, extensions and more. Their team has over 20 years of experience in the cosmetology industry, making it their mission to provide quality service to all who come in. As they say, “No one is perfect but everyone deserves to be flawless!”

Next, the Chamber highlighted No Sister Left Behind, established by Glenda Woolfolk to promote total well-being for Black women! This organization is dedicated to enhancing well-being through a range of programs addressing emotional, financial and social needs. Their mission is to foster a supportive community of women who uplift one another. By providing well-being education and resources, they tackle disparities frequently faced by women, with a specific focus on addressing challenges experienced by Black women. All their programs welcome women of every race.

Leadership Bakersfield

Shaping Tomorrow:

Empowering Emerging Leaders to Navigate Bakersfield's Future

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber launched its annual 10-month Leadership Bakersfield program, setting the stage for 32 emerging leaders to acquire the essential knowledge and connections needed to navigate and lead in our ever-evolving world.

“Programs like Leadership Bakersfield empower professionals to build connections and deepen their engagement within their communities,” said Chamber President and CEO Janelle Capra.

“Over three decades, this initiative has not only bolstered the quantity and quality of local leaders but has also significantly elevated our overall quality of life."

Every session within the Leadership Bakersfield program is designed to educate participants on diverse industry sectors and critical community matters. Participants will cultivate a deeper understanding of local industries and government operations. The sessions include informative tours and hands-on activities specifically designed to educate and engage participants. Integral to the program is a collective project undertaken by participants, aimed at addressing a community need. This practical application allows them to channel the knowledge acquired toward effecting positive change within our community.

“Beyond education, this program thrives on action,” said the program’s Advisory Council Chair, Zane Smith, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Kern County. “The endeavors of participants showcase their dedication to making a tangible and positive impact within our community."

Leadership Bakersfield Health & Human Services Day

The Leadership Bakersfield class delved into the heart of community service and health equity in Kern County. The Health and Human Services Day was a profound exploration, offering eye-opening experiences and moments of inspiration that resonated deeply with participants.

The day commenced with a poignant tour of the CAPK Food Bank, led by Kelly Lowery, the Program Administrator, and his dedicated team. Participants were struck by the magnitude of food insecurity and the staggering impact it has on our communities.

Next, attendees stepped into the Open Door Networks Homeless Center, where they were greeted by Lauren Skidmore, the CEO. The walkthrough proved to be a humbling experience, offering profound insights into the challenges faced by the unhoused population. Witnessing the dedication of the center's staff sparked a collective resolve to address homelessness with compassion and action.

Traco Matthews, the Chief Equity Officer of Kern Family Health Systems, stirred hearts and minds with his impassioned discussion on health equity. His thought-provoking words challenged attendees to confront inequalities within our community and sparked a desire for meaningful change.

The day continued with enlightening presentations, including "The State of the Union of Healthcare" by B.J. Predum, President/CEO of Dignity Health Mercy Hospitals. Participants were captivated by the discourse and left with a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and its challenges.

The highlight of the day was the clinical experience at Dignity Health – Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, featuring a CPR competition, surgical robot demonstration, and cath lab showcase. Attendees marveled at the cutting-edge technologies shaping modern healthcare and gained a newfound appreciation for the intricate workings of medical innovation.

Reflecting on the day's events, participants expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired. From gaining insights into food insecurity and homelessness to exploring the forefront of medical technology, Health and Human Services Day 2024 left an indelible impression on all who attended.

In the words of one participant, "It was the bestest most awesome day ever!" Indeed, it was a day of enlightenment, empowerment and endless possibilities for positive change.

Thank you to our Advisory Day Chairs Joshua Sharp, Pawan Gill and Mitchall Patel. Special thanks to Dignity Health Bakersfield, Kern Health Systems, Omni Family Health and Golden Empire Transit.

Thank you to our Program Underwriter

Greater Bakersfield Chamber welcomes new leadership and celebrates achievements at 2024 Board Installation & Awards Luncheon

Janelle Capra takes helm as President and CEO at first public event, Rob Duchow inducted as 2024 Chairman of the Board

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber hosted its Annual Board Installation and Awards Luncheon, ushering in a new era of leadership and honoring exemplary contributors to the business community. The event welcomed Janelle Capra as the Chamber's new President and CEO, and marked the induction of Southern California Gas Company’s Public Affairs Manager, Rob Duchow as the 2024 Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Capra addressed guests about her commitment to propel the Chamber into the future and expressed her dedication to taking foundational steps in collaboration with the board and staff, alluding to a strategic vision for the organization.

"I am committed to collaborating with our team to build upon the legacy of those who preceded me, to propel our Chamber to new heights,” she said. “I feel fortunate to be part of a dynamic, diverse and influential group of individuals who are unwaveringly committed to the growth and prosperity of our city, county, and community."

In addition, the luncheon served as a platform for celebrating accomplishments and recognizing outstanding contributions within the Greater Bakersfield business community. The Chamber presented annual awards to individuals and organizations, including:

• Ambassador Volunteer of the Year: Blade Griffin, Bakersfield Condors

• Chamber Champion: Kern Women’s Business Center

The event culminated with the official induction of Rob Duchow, Public Affairs Manager for Southern California Gas Company, as the 2024 Chairman of the Board of Directors.

“This is your Chamber. I encourage you to be involved in any way you can be, to realize the full benefits of your membership,” said Duchow.

The Chamber looks forward to a dynamic future under the leadership of Capra, fostering strategic growth, collaboration and advocacy for the vibrant business community of Greater Bakersfield. Her vision revolves around fostering an engaged and collaborative business community, specifically supporting small businesses. Capra believes local

businesses benefit when they are heard and she wants the chamber to give them that opportunity.

The Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon was held at Seven Oaks Country Club in southwest Bakersfield. Approximately 450 people attended the event. This year’s presenting sponsor was Dignity Health Bakersfield.

View all the photos from this event here

Watch the 2024 Annual Luncheon here

Welcome New Chamber Members

We’d like to extend a warm welcome to the companies that have joined the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Thank you for investing in our mission to Build a Better Bakersfield.

Ability Construction

2517 Charleston Dr

Bakersfield, CA 93308

661-407-9982

abilityconstructionca.com

“We are a commercial and residential based construction company. We have been doing residential remodels and repairs in the local area for over 20 years.”

An Idea Girl Advertising Agency

1929 Truxtun Avenue Suite D Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-322-3200

ideagirlnetwork.com

“An Advertising, Marketing and Media Agency specializing in Digital Marketing, Traditional Media, Jingles, Video and Audio Production, Event Planning and Sponsorships.”

Bleu Fox Culinary Co. LLC, 9530 Hageman Rd Ste B #161 Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-706-7353

“Experienced culinary caterer offering diverse cooking styles, imaginative dishes, event planning, and vendor pop-ups for memorable events.”

Bolthouse Fresh Foods

661-366-7209

bolthouse.com

“Bolthouse Fresh Foods is rooted in legacy with over 100 years of experience as one of the largest growers and distributors of carrots in the United States & Canada. We are proud to service individual consumers and food service suppliers as well as natural ingredients to food and beverage manufacturers.”

Cattani Farms, LLC

5100 California Ave., Suite 234 Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-716-6266

Central Cal Management, Inc. 661-243-3877

centralcalmgmt.com

“Central Cal Management is a family-owned business with services in property management and real estate sales.”

Certified Heating and Cooling

4630 Easton Dr Suite #2 Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-512-4822

mycertifiedair.com

“Been in the HVAC trade for 18 years and in 2019 I decided to get my contractor license.”

Citryn Marketing Agency, LLC

4100 Truxtun Avenue Suite 100 Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-333-9351

citryn.com

“Citryn offers full scale digital marketing including websites, graphic design, and much more.”

Executive Copier Solutions

3820 Wible Rd. Suite A Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-322-0190

execcopiers.com

"Small local business, family & veteran owned. One stop shop for printer needs and service."

H.E.A.R.T.S Connection

4500 California Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-328-9055

heartsconnection.org

“H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection serves families who have children/young adults (age 3-22) who have a disability through parent support groups, parent training’s, and IEP assistance. We serve all of Kern County.”

LuckyBK LLC DBA Toastique

14807 Pomegranate Ave Bakersfield, CA 93314 661-303-7492

toastique.com

“Toastique is a gourmet toast and juice bar. We are known for our gourmet toast, fresh cold-pressed juice, wellness smoothies, açaí bowls and healthy treats.”

Marvin Ramirez

3719 Amur Maple Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93311 661-204-8287

Mobiledumps Bakersfield

13426 Boyd Lake Dr

Bakersfield, CA 93314

661-308-6065

mobiledumps.com/location/bakersfield-ca

“Providing dumpster rentals to commercial and residential customers.”

No Sister Left Behind

4710 Cimarron Ridge Drive Bakersfield, CA 93313

661-378-7783

nosisterleftbehind2.org

Pilates Barre

3437 Buena Vista Rd. #150 Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-340-6731

bakersfieldpilatesbarre.com

"Boutique fitness studio located in Belcourt Village offering reformer Pilates, yoga, barre, TRX, HIIT + more!."

Riders Trucking Inc

7921 Nile River Ct Bakersfield, CA 93313 661-703-0031

riderstrucking.com

“Riders Trucking Inc. (family-owned Business) is an assetbased company started in 2018 with one target – to disentangle transportation. across the nation, dock to dock..”

The Motherhood Project

136 Allen Rd Ste 100 #1008 Bakersfield, CA 93314 661-889-1037

themotherhoodprojectca.org

“Our mission at The Motherhood Project is to uplift and empower mothers facing the challenges of postpartum depression and anxiety.”

Thomas-Cattani, Inc.

5100 California Ave., Suite 234 661-716-6266

"Farming and agricultural investing."

Unitek College

333 Palmer Dr Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-271-3019

unitekcollege.edu/campus-locations/bakersfield

“Established in 2002, Unitek College stands as an accredited private institution that seamlessly integrates distinctive academic and technical specialties, and delivering high-quality education in healthcare.”

Universal Healthcare IPA, Inc. 5500 Ming Ave, Suite 170 Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-695-5990

universalhealthcareipa.com

“Crespo Roofing Inc. is dedicated to serving our clients with a comprehensive array of services, serving both the commercial and residential markets. From repairs to replacement.”

Waba Grill Ashe Road

6326 Ashe Road #200 Bakersfield, CA 93313 661-302-8036

wabagrill.com

“ We are serving the best, fusion grilled food with healthy, quality ingredients. Our philosophy is "eat smart, be healthy.”

RIBBON CUTTINGS RIBBON CUTTINGS

PAST RIBBON CUTTINGS

Grand Opening

Drybar

3321 Buena Vista Rd. Ste. 740 drybarshops.com

Grand Opening

MB2 Entertainment

1251 Oak St. mb2entertainmentbkd.com

For more information or to schedule a ribbon cutting, please contact us at info@bakochamber.com

Grand Opening CaliDental

3761 Mall View Rd. calidentalsmiles.com

Grand Opening Club Euro 9500 Flushing Quail Dr., Unit 502 europhoria.com/club-euro

PAST RIBBON CUTTINGS

Grand Opening

Centennial Corridor State Route 99 and the Westside Parkway

Grand Opening

Valley Strong Credit Union 16227 Stockdale Highway valleystrong.com

Member News

Advanced Integrative Medicine offers a full-spectrum of services to our patients to treat a variety of conditions. Our highly trained professionals have years of experience in diagnosing and treating these conditions, and we are happy to help find a solution to best suit your individual needs. We strive to create individualized treatment plans for each of our patients as each person has a unique history and unique needs. Some of our services include: Ozone Therapy, IV NAD+, Ketamine, Peptide Therapy, Heavy Metal Detox and more. Receive 10 perfect off any service as a first time patient. sohointegrativemedicine. com

Kern County Library and Kern Literacy Council are partnering together to bring The Tutoring Network, a free tutoring service for adults, teens, and children. Tutoring assistance will be available both on-site at all Kern County Library locations and online. Free tutoring is available in the following subjects:

• Adult Basic Education (ABE) Adults 18+ can receive help with reading, writing, and math.

• Child and Teen Basic Education (CBE) Children and Teens ages 7-17 can receive help with reading, writing, and math.

• GED Preparation (GED) Students can receive coaching in a variety of high school subjects to help pass their GED or high school equivalency test.

• English as a Second Language (ESL) Learn to read, write, and speak English from beginner to advanced levels.

• Citizenship Test Preparation (CTP) Test Prep coaching for the United States Citizenship Test.

Whether it’s mastering test prep, refining your basic reading, writing, and math skills, or preparing for your citizenship test, tutors are here to guide learners of all ages. Reserve your spot for a free tutoring session at your local Kern County Library, or seamlessly connect for an engaging online session. Book your FREE tutoring appointment today at: kernlibrary.org/tutoring

Advanced Integrative Medicine offers a full-spectrum of services to our patients to treat a variety of conditions. Our highly trained professionals have years of experience in diagnosing and treating these conditions, and we are happy to help find a solution to best suit your individual needs. We strive to create individualized treatment plans for each of our patients as each person has a unique history and unique needs. Some of our services include: Ozone Therapy, IV NAD+, Ketamine, Peptide Therapy, Heavy Metal Detox and more. Receive 10 perfect off any service as a first time patient. sohointegrativemedicine.com

Renewing Members

Thank you to our members who have reinvested in the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Your continued investment helps the Chamber continue its mission to Build a Better Bakersfield.

911 Restoration - 2023

Access Plus Capital - 2017

ADAKC - Alzheimer's Disease Assoc. of Kern County, Inc. - 1994

Advance Beverage Company - 1955

Advance Communications & Consulting, Inc. - 2001

AECOM Technical Services Inc. - 1997

Aera Energy LLC - 1981

AES - 2015

Amtrak San Joaquins - 2020

AppleOne Employment Services - 1992

Around the Clock Care - 2001

Ashley Furniture - 2020

B&B Surplus, Inc. - 1993

Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital - 2016

Bakersfield College - 1974

Bakersfield Country Club - 1991

Bakersfield Electric Motor Repair, Inc. - 1967

Bakersfield Museum of Art - 1996

Bakersfield Racquet Club - 1996

Barbich Hooper King Dill Hoffman - 1983

Barton Marketing Group - 2019

Baymarr Constructors, Inc. - 1997

Bella - 2000

Benji's French Basque Restaurant, Inc. - 1992

Blackwell Land, LLC - 1983

Bristol Hospice Bakersfield - 1998

Buck Owens Production Company, Inc. - 1965

Bynum Inc. - 1985

Pat Callahan Ceramic Tile, Marble & Granite Fabrication - 1992

Car Seat Concierge - 2023

Carney's Business Technology Center - 1984

Central Valley Commercial Brokers, Inc. - 2021

W. Michael Chertok - 2008

Chester Avenue Brake LLC - 1925

Chosen Payments - 2016

Clean Harbors Buttonwillow LLC - 1990

Clerou Tire Company, Inc. - 1950

Clifford & Brown, P.C. - 1990

Clinica Sierra Vista - 2018

Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling - 2019

Coffee-Brimhall LLC - 2008

Contraband Control Specialists, Inc. - 1991

Cook's Computer Maintenance & Engineering, Inc. - 1978

Danielle Plotner - State Farm Agency - 2021

Daniells Phillips Vaughan & Bock - 1956

Derrel's Mini Storage, Inc. - 1986

Dignity Health Sports Complex by GSA - 2022

Douglass Truck Bodies - 1958

Drybar Bakersfield - 2023

First Solutions Insurance Services - 1999

Flame & Fire Brazilian Steakhouse - 2021

Garden Pathways, Inc. - 2000

Gary Icardo Farms, Inc. - 1999

Girl Scouts of Central California South - 2016

Golden Empire Concrete Sales - 1989

Greg's Petroleum Service - 2018

Grow Public Schools - 2019

Guarantee Shoe Center - 1986

Haddad Dodge - 1987

Hall Letter Shop Inc. - 1990

Hathaway LLC - 2007

Hoffmann Hospice - 1996

Hourglass Hotel - Ascend Collection - 2010

Ivy Park at Seven Oaks - 2022

Christopher D. Jacobs CPA - 1984

Jess Smith & Sons Cotton, Inc. - 1958

Jim Burke Ford Lincoln - 1951

Kern Bros. Trucking, Inc. - 1990

Kern Community College District - 2004

Kern Community Foundation - 1999

Kern Council of Governments - 1990

Kern County Fair and Event Center - 1958

Kern County Medical Society - 1948

Kern Electric Distributors - 1968

Key Staffing Inc. - 2022

KGET-TV 17 - 1978

Women's Business Center - 2019

Lux Dermatology - 2023

The Lynn Company - 1977

Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center - 1994

Mazzei Injector Co., LLC - 1996

McIntosh & Associates Engineering, Inc. - 1990

Meridian Pacific Strategies - 2012

Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center - 2016

Metro Record Storage and Shredding - 2006

Mobiledumps Bakersfield - 2023

Motor City Auto Center - 1972

Nelms Surveying, Inc. - 2010

Newby Rubber, Inc. - 1964

Nighbert Group - 1972

Pacific Gas and Electric Company - 1920

Parsons - 1991

Petro Travel Plaza - 2006

Placer Title Company - 2008

Providence Strategic Consulting, Inc. - 2004

Pyrenees French Bakery - 1958

Sally A. Herald Accountancy Corporation - 1988

Southern California Edison - 2012

Southern California Orthopedic Institute - 1999

StructureCast - 1999

Sullivan Petroleum Company - 1947

Sunpower by Quality Home Services - 2017

Talley Farms - 2023

Tejon Indian Tribe - 2012

Tejon Ranch Company - 1956

The BLVD! - 2018

The Law Offices Of Young & Nichols - 2023

The Motherhood Project - 2023

The Open Door Network - 1991

Tolman & Wiker Insurance an AssuredPartners CA

Agency - 2000

Tri Counties Bank - 2004

Trinity Consultants, Inc. - 2000

UBS/Financial Services - 1987

Uniglobe Golden Empire Travel DBA Uniglobe Tvl

Partners - 1987

United Staffing Associates-Bakersfield, CA - 2020

Universal Healthcare IPA, Inc. - 2023

Urner's Inc. - 1920

Valley Institute of Prosthetics and Orthotics - 2022

Valley Steel Construction - 1958

Varner Bros. Inc. - 1996

Verizon Corporate Office - 2021

The Villas at Scenic River - 2008

Vital Signs of Bakersfield - 1991

Bwater Investment, Inc. DBA - 2023

Walker-Lewis Rents - 1988

Walter Mortensen Insurance - 1946

Young Wooldridge LLP - 1993

Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation - 2018

Upcoming Events

March 2024

Wednesday, March 6

Government Review Council Meeting Noon | Chamber

Thursday, March 7

Ribbon Cutting

4 p.m. | Girl Scouts of Central California

South Innovation Center

Tuesday, March 12

BBA Committee Meeting 11:30 a.m. | Chamber

Friday, March 22

Government Review Council Meeting 8 a.m. | Chamber

Tuesday, March 26

Ambassador Meeting

Noon | Dignity Health Campus Location:

Founders Hall Auditorium

Friday, March 29

Good Friday Chamber Closed

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 – Aera Energy

CHAMBER STAFF

Janelle Capra

President & CEO

Kami Gonzalez

Administration & Operations Director

Savanah Adams

Stakeholder Engagement Manager

Kimberly Price

Community Events Manager

Sophie Gomez

Administrative Assistant

Get Social

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

@bakochamber

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