Metro July 2024 by Greater Bakersfield Chamber

The Sound of

Tenacity

Remember how much fun summer vacations were as a kid? Summers are still like that at the Parkshire Pool & Pavilion in Highgate at Seven Oaks. And although you may not be a kid anymore, you can still enjoy living in a community where life feels like a vacation every day.

Located within gated Highgate Park and Highgate Place, the lush green lawns, pickle ball courts, children's playground, giant fire pit, and BBQ facilities of the Parkshire Pool & Pavilion make it easy to live your best life ever!

Actual Highgate at Seven Oaks residents

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COVER PHOTO

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.

Karen Goh, Mayor, Christian Clegg, City Manager and Janelle Capra, CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber.

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Dear Greater Bakersfield Chamber Members,

As we progress through the year, staying informed about the significant developments and opportunities within our city is crucial. This month, we had the opportunity to host Bakersfield city leaders at the annual State of the City address, focusing on our challenges and collective vision for the future.

City Manager Christian Clegg discussed the impact of Measure N, a tax measure that has generated approximately $100 million, with $20 million allocated to addressing homelessness in Bakersfield. Mayor Karen Goh shared her enthusiasm about Bakersfield's economic future, emphasizing the influx of new businesses and developers responding to our community's needs. You can watch a recording of their many exciting announcements on our website at www.BakoChamber.com.

It is of utmost importance for our members to stay informed about the latest changes in labor laws and minimum wage regulations. Adapting to these changes is crucial for maintaining a healthy business environment. The Chamber is dedicated to supporting our members by providing information on available resources to maintain and grow their business. We aim to ensure that all Chamber member is seen, heard, and valued.

With that said, I urge our members to stay compliant with business laws and attend the upcoming 2024 mid-year update Labor Law & HR Forum, presented by Young Wooldridge, LLP, and co-sponsored by LeBeau Thelen and J. Webb Consulting. This event will take place on Wednesday, July 31, at 8 a.m. at the Greater Bakersfield Chamber.

Finally, I want to express our gratitude to

Adventist Health Bakersfield for their generous hospitality. They hosted our Ambassador Committee meeting at Adventist Hospital Medical Center! I'd like to extend a special thanks to Director of Community Integration Matthew Cauthron, Community Partnership Executive Kiyoshi Timono, and Operations Executive Jenny Lavers for their warm welcome and the delicious, gluten-free, Blue Zonesapproved lunch prepared by Mango Haus. Jenny also shared exciting community health updates that will have a very positive impact on us, and even gave us a sneak peek at their upcoming Paris Olympic advertisement that will run during the opening ceremony.

As we navigate business developments, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber remains dedicated to supporting our members through advocacy, resources, and community engagement. Together, we can overcome challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Blessings,

Janelle Capra President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber

LABOR LAW & HR FORUM MID-YEAR UPDATE

Mid-year brings new compliance challenges that cannot be overlooked. The state of California has taken a proactive approach in expanding employee rights across various domains. To assist employers in navigating these changes, our comprehensive forum will cover all the legal updates necessary for full compliance. Don't miss out on staying up-to-date and ensuring adherence to labor laws!

TIME: 7:30 a.m. Check-In/Networking; 8-10 a.m. Forum

LOCATION: Chamber O ce, 1725 Eye St.

COST: $40 Members; $70 Nonmembers

Presented by Wednesday, July 31

Co-Sponsored by Daniel Klingenberger

Katie Johnson - 2024 Beautiful Bakersfield Award: Next Gen

I am thrilled to share my experience and thoughts about winning the Next Gen award at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards this year. It was such a highenergy and exciting night. To be recognized alongside so many other community leaders was humbling. I was in complete shock when they called my name. There are so many deserving students who are putting in the work, and I was truly honored to be recognized for what I enjoy doing – being of service to my community. I don't do it for recognition but because I believe it should be everyone's duty to make their community beautiful. You are what you seek. I felt absolutely overwhelmed by the love and support I received from the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards. I always knew I had a village of supporters, but I didn't realize just how many people were behind me. As I walked to the stage, I saw many who had supported me in many ways. I am incredibly thankful for an amazing village that wants the best for me.

Whether my name was called or not, I knew I was happy about the impact made in my community. When my name was announced, I broke down in tears, overwhelmed by being awarded for something I genuinely love doing. It was unbelievable that people thought so highly of my work when it felt like second nature to me. I am deeply grateful to Upside Academy, Inc., Apple Core Project's founder, Jackie Allen, and the Church of God for their love, kindness, and guidance. Jackie especially supported my vision of helping our senior community and being a blessing.

As for what I would like people to take away from that evening, I want them to know that Gen Z has much to offer. We are strong, courageous, and a force to be reckoned with. Trust us – we are here to continue caring for our community. We are leaders in the making. This award not only gives me a sense of accomplishment but also inspires me to pursue more community involvement. After returning from UC San Diego, I plan to continue my work in the community by focusing on public service and improving our community. This award inspires me to do more, and I hope it inspires other Black girls to become more active in their communities and break the stereotypes. I am excited about the future and look forward to continuing to be part of the change and innovation happening in Bakersfield. Thank you to the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce and the community for this amazing recognition.

Katie Johnson

Leadership Bakersfield (LB) is a long-standing tradition that brings together a group of individuals from across the city and engages them in the issues and assets crucial to Bakersfield’s future. This high-caliber program equips today’s leaders with the knowledge and skills to lead in our rapidly changing and interconnected world. Each session is designed to educate participants on various industry sectors and key community issues. Sessions also focus on leadership, health & human services, energy, arts & culture, media & communications, government, education, law enforcement and agriculture. Through top-tiered speakers and panels in essential industries, exclusive tours and hands-on activities, LB is developing the next generation of leaders in Bakersfield. Participants are also tasked with designing a project that fulfills the community’s needs. Each year, LB teams create programs and projects that funnel thousands of dollars into our community that impact the lives of hundreds of Individuals.

Applications for the 2025 class open August 1, 2024

LEARN MORE

City of the State

Greater Bakersfield Chamber hosts the 2024 State of the City in Downtown Bakersfield

The 2024 State of the City luncheon, presented by Adventist Health and Kaiser Permanente, took place on Wednesday, July 17 at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center in downtown Bakersfield. The event is one of the Chamber's signature business forums, providing a platform to discuss the progress made on Bakersfield's most important matters.

Mayor Karen Goh and City Manager Christian Clegg spoke to local leaders about completed projects and the city's efforts to address key issues. They stressed the importance of collective action in addressing Bakersfield's challenges, emphasized the community's resilience and shared insights on how residents can work towards solutions.

Goh and Clegg emphasized that the city's population growth reached 411,109 as of January 2024, reflecting a 0.8% increase from the previous year. The event also focused on economic development. They announced new shopping and

retail centers expected to bring jobs and amenities to Bakersfield, including developments at the old East Hills Mall site, an expanded Trader Joe's and the announcement of a Whole Foods store.

The city's proactive approach to addressing homelessness was also highlighted, with the opening of two new shelters and a $20 million annual commitment to this pressing issue.

The Chamber appreciates the comprehensive updates shared by Goh and Clegg and extends its gratitude to our sponsors for their support and valuable contributions. Gratitude is also extended to all Chamber members for their ongoing commitment to the Chamber’s shared goals and for fostering economic growth while driving positive change within the community.

A Legacy of Service and Community Commitment

Local retail shoe business to celebrate 71 years in business

Greater Bakersfield Chamber legacy member Guarantee Shoe Center, a beloved local retail business, is preparing to commemorate its 71st anniversary in August. The store officially became a Chamber member in 1986. Their business journey began in 1953 when Nat Slepian, an experienced professional in the shoe industry, enlisted his son to join him in this new venture.

Despite his son's limited knowledge of shoes, he placed his trust in his father's guidance. Together, they transformed a vacant building, previously a delicatessen with a bar in the back, into the iconic establishment Bakersfield residents know today. Over the years, Guarantee Shoe Center has exhibited resilience in the face of adversity. A devastating fire in 1970 destroyed the building, requiring a three-year reconstruction effort. The store not only recovered from this setback but also expanded, taking over the entire building and undergoing three significant remodels, each aimed at enhancing the customer experience and maintaining a commitment to full-service provision.

The underlying ethos of family has always been central to Guarantee Shoe Center. The baton was passed on to the current owner, third-generation owner Rosco Rolnick, who carries on the proud tradition that his grandfather started many years

ago. The philosophy is simple: "We care about our customers, our employees and our community."

That mindset continues today under Rosco's watchful eye. Having begun his journey as an assistant stockboy, he assumed control of the business at 35 when his father retired. His memories of working as a cashier at 13, selling on the sales floor at 16 and serving in the army in Vietnam underscore the deep-rooted connection of the family to this business.

Beyond shoes, the family also managed several dress shops such as the Shoe Tree and the Elise Dress Shop. As the business evolved, the family streamlined its operations by consolidating these ventures while passionately maintaining a focus on delivering quality service and nurturing community bonds.

The spirit of community service became a cornerstone of Guarantee Shoe Center's identity over three decades ago when Rosco, moved by the sight of individuals without proper footwear, initiated the first "Shoes for the Homeless" shoe drive.

Initially collecting a few hundred pairs, the drive has grown significantly over the years. "We started small, but the support from the community has been overwhelming," he said.

This mission has grown exponentially. Partnerships with suppliers like Florsheim and Clarks has enabled the collection and distribution of thousands of new pairs of shoes to local organizations including The Open Door Network, the Mission at Kern, and the Brundage Lane Navigation Center.

"The generosity of the people in this community is truly heartwarming," said Rosco.

Community support has been pivotal to the success of the annual shoe drive with thousands of pairs of shoes and additional resources donated by local businesses and individuals.

This annual event has garnered substantial backing, with local media and public service announcements amplifying the cause. Rosco expressed sincere gratitude for the community's overwhelming generosity.

"We believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for so long," he said.

The commitment to community service extends beyond the shoe drive. Guarantee Shoe Center fosters life-long relationships with local schools, businesses and organizations, providing footwear and other forms of support.

The store's dedication to customer service has

cultivated a loyal following with employees trained to offer personalized fittings and knowledgeable recommendations to ensure that customers find the ideal footwear for their needs.

Reflecting on the store's 71-year history, Rosco emphasized the importance of giving back to the community that has sustained the business over the years.

Drawing inspiration from his grandfather's teachings on the significance of generosity and community service, the owner reiterated how these values continue to guide the store's operations.

"My grandfather always taught me the importance of generosity and community service," said Rosco. These teachings continue to guide the store's operations.

Guarantee Shoe Center is a representation of a family's legacy that plays a crucial role in the Bakersfield community. "We are proud to be here and serve this wonderful community," said Rosco.

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.

Coffee Road Ventures

7777 Edinger Avenue, Suite 115 Huntington Beach, CA 92647

310-944-5070

djmcapital.com

“Coffee Road Ventures is a Joint Venture created to entitle and develop the property on Coffee Road and Rosedale Highway into a grocery anchored shopping.”

Crescendo Coaching Group LLC

6117 Prague Place Bakersfield, CA 93306

661-241-0711

crescendocoachinggroup.com

“Fred Walkover is a certified executive leadership and team development coach. He works with business leaders, owners, and teams to optimize their leadership effectiveness.”

Crystal Geyser Water Company

1233 East California Avenue

Bakersfield, CA 93307

661-323-6296

crystalgeyserwatercompany.com

“Since 1977, Crystal Geyser Water Company has focused on developing natural, better-for-you beverages for the whole family. We pioneered flavored sparkling water.”

Jupiter Hospitality

2711 Sheltenham Way Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-331-1602

jupiterhospitality.com

“Owning, operating, acquiring, and development of hotels while offering knowledge in the industry curated by 30 years of experience.”

Make-A-Wish Central Coast and Southern Central Valley 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd Camarillo, CA 93012

805-676-9474

wish.org

Morgan Stanley-Walter Russell CFP®

9100 Ming Ave Suite 205 Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-663-4646

Oliver & Associates Real Estate Team

10107 Olympiad Rose Ct

Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-808-3444

yourhome661.com

“Real Estate sales.”

Panda Express 4676 Ming Ave Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-955-7131 pandaexpress.com

“From our world-famous Orange Chicken to our selection of health-minded Wok Smart entrees at 300 calories or less. Dine in, take out, or order online!”

Pathway Assisted Living 4725 Panama Lane D3-301 Bakersfield, CA 93313

661-972-4646

“We provide assisted living services to the Bakersfield Community.”

San Joaquin Operators 2711 Sheltenham Way Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-331-1602 jupiterhospitality.com

“Owning, operating, acquiring, and development of hotels while offering knowledge in the industry curated by 30 years of experience.”

San Joaquin Veterinary Hospital 3441 Allen Road Bakersfield, CA 93314

661-588-3299 geniusvets.com

“Animal Health Services.”

Southland Industries 12131 Western Avenue Garden Grove, CA 93241 714-719-3641 southlandind.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

August 2024

Tuesday, August 6

GRC

12 p.m. | Chamber

Thursday, August 8

Ribbon Cutting - Le Cave

10 a.m.

Friday, August 23

GRC

8 a.m. | Chamber

Tuesday, August 27

Ambassador's Luncheon

12 p.m. | Adventist Health

Thursday, August 29

Ribbon Cutting - Love's Travel Stop

9 a.m.

RENEWING MEMBERS

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

Alpha Media, LLC - 2015

American Business Machines - 1999

ARCpoint Labs of Bakersfield - 2013

ARRC Technology - 1996

Bakersfield SPCA - 2012

Belfor Property Restoration - 2010

Bill Wright Toyota - 1982

BMW Management, Inc. - 1997

California Resources Corporation - 1970

Centre For Neuro Skills - 1999

Community Action Partnership of Kern - 1995 Culligan Water - 2017

Emcore - 1963

Emser Tile - 2015

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bakersfield - 1989

Flight Adventure Park - 2022

Good Samaritan Hospital - 2011

Heart Vascular and Leg Center - 2010

Homewood Suites by Hilton - 2004

J.D. Rush Company, Inc. - 1994

KABI LLC - 2014

Kern Glass & Aluminum Company - 2021

Links for Life - 2003

M.A.R.E. Therapeutic Riding Center - 1997

MK Logistics Inc. - 2022

Nile Point Veterinary Hospital, Inc. -1966

Principal Financial Group - 2005

Salty's Banquet & Event Center - 2017

The Station - Kern County Fire Fighters - 2017

Valley First Credit Union - 2022

Victor's Mexican Grill - Mt. Vernon - 2019

Wounded Heroes Fund - 2018

WOW Pest Control - 2017

MEMBER NEWS

Support Make-A-Wish® Central Coast and Southern Central Valley by dining at or ordering online from the Chipotle located at 10510 Stockdale Hwy in Bakersfield! 25% of event sales will be donated to help grant wishes. Order online for pickup using code K748V8C or show the flier in the restaurant (printed or on your phone)! See more events here and check out our website!

Houchin Community Blood Bank urgently seeks donations in July and 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!

Through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County’s Summer Meal Program, children and teens ages 18 and younger can continue to eat healthy meals, including breakfast and lunch or supper, throughout the summer at no cost. Children do not have to be classified as economically disadvantaged to participate; there is no paperwork to complete. Meals will be served Monday to Friday (except holidays) at the various sites linked. Please note that meal service times and dates vary.

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 You have until April 15, 2025 to get your ERTC refund if not already received!

Attention Bakersfield businesses! Don't miss out on your Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) refund. The ERTC program offers a refundable tax credit of up to $21,000 per eligible employee, potentially resulting in significant financial relief for your business. However, it's crucial to note that this program has a deadline of April 15, 2025, after which the opportunity to claim these credits will expire.

Don't miss out on this valuable opportunity to recoup a portion of the wages you paid during the pandemic. Go to the ERTC Website today and let us help you claim the refund you deserve! Or call Cindy or Roland at 661-3337821 with any questions.

Dream Business Resources 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. For more information, visit their website or call Cindy or Roland at 661-333-7821 with any questions.

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

Vice President, Members & Programs

Savanah Adams

Senior Manager, Policy & Public Affairs

Kimberly Price

Community Events Manager

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CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS

Tri Counties Bank exists for one purpose: to improve the financial success and well-being of its shareholders, customers, communities and employees. The bank offers a wide range of consumer, small business and commercial banking services, which can be accessed through its extensive branch network in California as well as through advanced online and mobile banking platforms. Additionally, customers have access to a nationwide network of over 37,000 surcharge-free ATMs and the bank's bankers are available by phone 7 days a week.

MAJOR INVESTORS

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS

THE BLVD EATS DRINKS GAMES