Metro June 2023

MARCO! POLO!

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!

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BEAUTIFUL BAKERSFIELD AWARDS

LEADERSHIP BAKERSFIELD

SHOP LOCAL, SHOP NOW

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Celebrate the grand openings

of

COVER

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.

1725

Eye St. • PO Box 1947 Bakersfield, CA 93303 661.327.4421 bakochamber.com

Message from the CEO

Eagerly Working for Our Members

Dear members,

June has arrived, and we are delighted to highlight the incredible accomplishments and the series of exciting events in store for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber.

First and foremost, we are thrilled to announce that the Chamber was recently honored with the inaugural California Chamber of Commerce HR Champion Award. This recognition was presented to us at the CalChamber Capitol Summit in Sacramento. It demonstrates our commitment to championing the success of our members and helping them navigate the complex landscape of labor and employment laws in California. It is a testament to the hard work of our entire team, and we could not be more proud of this achievement. We extend our gratitude to Sen. Shannon Grove, Assemblymember Vince Fong and Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains for their valuable time and meeting with our delegation during our visit to Sacramento. A big thank you to our Chairman Ken Keller, Incoming Chair Rob Duchow and Governmental Review Council Chair Ron Nelms for accompanying us on our visit to the State Capitol.

We would like to shine a spotlight on the success of our Shop Local, Shop Now Mother’s Day Campaign, which generated more than 1.3 million media impressions and resonated across various platforms, including broadcast, social media and radio. The campaign gained traction thanks to a strong focus on helping residents find gifts that keep moms of all kinds healthy from the inside out. Thank you to everyone who chose to shop locally during Small Business

Month and support our members. By rallying behind this cause, we not only bolstered the local economy but also helped foster entrepreneurial dreams.

As many of you are aware, the much-anticipated Beautiful Bakersfield Awards Gala is only a few days away. This year, we have the honor of recognizing the remarkable accomplishments of more than 100 individuals, businesses and organizations that played a pivotal role in making Bakersfield a better place in 2022. This esteemed event, presented by Valley Strong Credit Union and hosted by the Chamber at Mechanics Bank Theater and Convention Center, is proof of the exceptional talent throughout our region. We are excited to celebrate with our community at this sold-out event!

Looking toward the future, I urge you to mark your calendars for the annual State of the City Luncheon presented by Valley Strong Credit Union, taking place on July 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Marriott Convention Center. During this event, Mayor Karen Goh and City Manager Christian Clegg will delve into the concerns at the forefront of our city and outline a visionary path for the future.

As we embark on a month brimming with noteworthy events, I want to express my sincere appreciation to each and every one of you for your unwavering support, dedication and contribution. Together, we will continue to shape a thriving business community that empowers and uplifts all.

Hillary Haenes Interim President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber

Business Person of the Year: DeAnna Lewis

“WOW!” That was literally my response to hearing my name called. When I was nominated, I was overjoyed reading the email of being recognized in my hometown and feeling seen in business. Having the community’s support, that was already a WIN for me. Honestly, I was so nervous leading up to the awards gala, not knowing what the outcome would be. The energy in the arena and the love being spread throughout the evening was amazing, so I settled in my seat still nervous but feeling proud to just be named amongst other amazing business owners in Bakersfield. My name was called, and I completely lost it, screams and tears flowed, now I know what it feels like to win an Oscar. What my partner and husband, Clint Lewis, has always said from the first day we opened Wingstop on Gosford Road in July 2006, is that we are here to serve, employ, support and give back to our community of Bakersfield. We are still committed today to the same core values. We are forever grateful to be noticed.

In receiving the Beautiful Bakersfield Award, we continue to show up and support great causes in our community - there has also been some amazing new connections and collaborations happening. I was asked to be the keynote speaker for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County Gala and look forward to partnering with them, offering youth internships this summer. We continue to offer scholarships for high school students as well as college students at Bakersfield College and California State University, Bakersfield. This year, we had more collaborations with local high schools for fundraiser nights in our restaurants as well as sponsored their food sale days on campus to raise monies for their various on-campus clubs.

We are excited to announce that our newest project, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, will open later this month at The Shops at River Walk. We feel blessed to have the continued support of our five Bakersfield Wingstops for more than 17 years – To God Be The Glory. My mom, Marie (Mickey) Daniel-Sturdivant, passed away in December 2020. She gave all she could to serve the underserved population of Bakersfield. She set the

best example of what it means to give and love others, I stand on her shoulders, and I’m committed to keeping her legacy alive through my efforts of community support. I will be launching our Community Service Scholarship program in her honor.

Thank you, Tejon Ranch Company, for sponsoring the award last year for Business Person of the Year. Thank you, Greater Bakersfield Chamber, for a night of glamour and stars, my award and recognition are forever cherished in my heart.

DeAnna Lewis, Multi Unit Owner, Bakersfield Wingstop

Energy Day Leadership Bakersfield

Exploring Kern County’s Energy Industry

The world of energy is evolving, and Kern County continues to be “California’s Energy Capital.”

On May 12, the Leadership Bakersfield 2023 class heard from leaders representing various companies in the energy industry who shared their assessments on the critical role that the various sectors in the energy industry play in Kern County, and the future of a changing energy industry.

Energy Day, hosted by LaMeka Ross of Aera Energy and Robin Woodward of Chevron, had three primary objectives: For participants to learn about the different types of energy produced in Kern County, understand the impact of the energy industry on the Kern County economy, and understand Kern County’s role in energy production and how the production relates to the state, nation, and world.

The day began with subject-matter experts from Aera’s Ambassador Program conducting interactive educational exercises that demonstrated the importance of environmental stewardship and the role of oil and gas in the economy and in the lives of everyday citizens. Led by Aera’s Ambassador Program Coordinator Logan Fuller-Aguirre, the program helps Aera employees build strong communities through education, mentoring and service in the community – sharing practical knowledge that encourages open, fact-based dialogue and transparency around the energy industry.

Kern County Planning Director Lorelei Oviatt highlighted the opportunities for Kern County energy industry to continue fueling California’s sustainable future, despite the current challenges the county and industry face. She talked about the delicate balancing act required to fulfill their

mission that fosters economic vitality, supports resource conservation, and serves the diverse needs of Kern County residents, including those with lower incomes, by improving their economic, environmental, and social quality of life.

California is the leading producer of renewable energy in the United States and Kern County supplies over 60 percent of California’s renewable energy – more than any other county in California. Colby Hall of Chevron facilitated a thoughtprovoking panel that explored new opportunities to expand how renewable energy can thrive in Kern County with Stephen Amstutz of San Joaquin Green Hydrogen and Julie Gill of Hydrostor.

Amstutz explained how green (powered by renewable energy) hydrogen can revolutionize how we use energy in the future, from our cars to homes and many hard to decarbonize sectors of the economy. He illustrated how San Joaquin Green Hydrogen’s proposed flagship project, located Tehachapi, the “wind capital” of the United States, will play an integral role in positioning California’s San Joaquin Valley as a hub for green hydrogen by harnessing proven hydrogen systems that integrate into the production, storage, and distribution of clean hydrogen throughout Southern California.

Gill shared how Hydrostor is proving a breakthrough solution to enable the transition to a cleaner, more affordable, and flexible electricity grid. Hydrostor’s Advanced Compressed Air Energy Storage projects leverage proven construction techniques with known standard equipment using only air, gravity, and water and will create hundreds of living wage jobs for the four years of construction and 30-40 full-time living wage jobs for its 50+ year life span.

She explained how Hydrostor technologies will play a major role in cleaning our environment and creating a sustainable planet for generations to come.

Denise Newton, Manager of Large Industrial Accounts at Pacific Gas & Electric Co., provided an overview of how PG&E is providing safe, reliable, affordable natural gas and electricity throughout California. In addition, she shared how electric power mix comes from a variety of GHG-free resources, including renewables, nuclear, and large hydroelectric as well as an update on the Diablo Canyon Power Plant Project that supports statewide electric reliability during the clean energy transition.

Taft Mayor Dave Noerr delivered an illustrative presentation educating attendees on the importance of energy independence and dispelling myths about the energy transition as it relates to the petroleum (oil and gas) industry. He passionately explained that the energy transformation will not eliminate the need for petroleum for generations. Petroleum is used to produce plastic, rubber, or synthetics that are needed to manufacture medical equipment and supplies, electronics, clothing, and thousands of other products that people use every day.

The day ended with a tour of Aera’s new Integrated Operations Control Center, a state-of-the-art, centralized facility that tracks every piece of equipment ensuring everything is working as it should to further improve safety and create operational efficiency. Aera also shared how it plans to play a role in the state’s energy transformation. Those plans include integrating innovative approaches, such as the IOCC, into operations

as well as implementing technological solutions such as Carbon Capture and Storage, also known as CCS, photovoltaic (PV) solar projects, and other technologies to help reduce its own carbon footprint thereby helping the state meet its bold climate goals. The day was a success thanks in large part to strong support across the vast energy industry leaders and rich discussion about how each sector of the energy industry will play an important role in finding affordable, reliable, ever-cleaner solutions to provide the energy the world needs.

Thank you to program underwriter Chevron and to the Leadership Bakersfield day sponsors Aera Energy, Berry Corporation, PG&E and Western State Petroleum Association (WSPA).

Thank you to our Day Sponsors

Thank you to our Program Underwriter

Bienvenidos a Mango Haus: New Restaurant Highlights Fresh Latin Flavors

Restaurateurs bring healthy, locally-sourced Latin cuisine to the community

Bakersfield is a city that boasts a rich history and a diverse community, and with the arrival of Mango Haus, it now has a new culinary destination. The Mango Haus is a fusion restaurant that marries wholesome Latin cuisine with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. It’s also a place that embodies the values of community, sustainability and purpose.

Walking into Mango Haus, one can immediately sense the warmth and passion that Co-Owners Mao Granada and Johnny Diaz, have put into creating this space. The restaurant is located inside the Best Western Hill House on Truxtun Avenue, and as soon as you enter the lobby, the aroma of the food tantalizes your senses. The decor is colorful, and the vibe is relaxed yet vibrant.

“We believe that we can eat cleaner and healthier and still have amazing flavors,” said Diaz.

The Mango Haus defines its menu as “Nuevo Latino,” and for Granada and Diaz, the menu reflects their community.

“Our menu is a reflection of who we are. It’s hard to define Mango Haus,” said Granada. “We are spicy.”

“We are, we have flavor, we’re colorful,

controversial…” added Diaz. “new, we are upscale, we are everything.”

Both Granada and Diaz grinned at each other.

“Mango Haus doesn’t have one identity, it has the spirit of the world.”

Mango Haus aims to share real food with the city they love and serve dishes that nourish and inspire the people. Focusing on plant-positive and organic food, the restaurant hopes to keep the community healthy and happy from the inside out. Granada and Diaz believe that empathy, integrity, and discipline can create unbreakable bonds in a team and they intentionally work to transform their workplace into a community.

Mango Haus offers a menu built around locally sourced produce, using sustainable practices and organic ingredients whenever possible. As a vegan, Granada is passionate about bringing fresh, organic ingredients to the restaurant's dishes, and believes that plant-positive and organic food is better for both health and the environment.

“At Mango Haus, we are thoughtful about everything that goes into our food, our minds and bodies. We even choose to cook with high-quality anti-

We believe that we can eat cleaner and healthier and still have amazing flavors.

inflammatory oils like Avocado and Olive. When we’re healthy within, it comes through on the outside,” Granada said.

Currently serving breakfast and brunch in advance of a full menu, The Mango Haus highlights vegan and gluten-free dishes with classic options for those without food restrictions or allergies.

The restaurant’s number one dish since opening its doors is the Chilaquiles Rojos, made with mango pico de gallo and homemade salsa served with frijoles de la olla. The dish has a sweet and savory twist that locals are raving about.

“We think that one of the reasons that the Chilaquiles are the biggest seller is that it's an international dish, it doesn't matter what Latin country you’re in, you can probably order chilaquiles,” said Diaz. “However, we have perfected them with our signature ingredient, mangos. They’ re not too greasy, too spicy or too salty.”

The brunch menu also includes dishes like feelgood pancakes made with organic oats, brown rice, chia/hemp seeds, haus-made berry compote, and maple butter. Another popular item is the tortilla Española, a classic Spanish potato and egg omelet with caramelized onion, bell pepper, and zucchini, served with organic greens.

In a city where healthy eating options can be limited, The Mango Haus is a welcome addition, offering not only nutritious and delicious food but also a sense of community and purpose. The owners’ commitment to locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices is a testament to their dedication to both their customers and the environment.

Mango Haus is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Visitors can check out the complete breakfast menu at mangohausbk.com. For the latest information, follow The Mango Haus on Instagram (@mangohaus_bk).

Learn more about Mango Haus

Sponsored by

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.

Bakersfield Notary Services

4900 California Ave., Ste. 110B

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-690-8086

bakersfieldnotaryservices.com

“We offer convenience paired with efficiency by offering 24/7 mobile notary services throughout Bakersfield.”

Dunkin’ Bakersfield

9815 Hageman Rd.

Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-282-1990

dunkindonuts.com

“We are America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee, sandwiches, donuts & baked goods.”

Flawless Cutz & Stylez

3719 Wilson Rd., Ste. B-4

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-735-3802

flawlesscutzandstylez.com

“We are here to provide quality hair-care services in a clean and safe environment. We specialize in men’s haircuts, dread lock services, men’s hair units, women’s hair extensions, flat-iron, relaxers and braids.”

Levare

Bakersfield, CA 93308

562-257-8817

levare.com

“We provide services & equipment to produce oil, gas and water. Our new location in Bakersfield has the capabilities to test and educate the systems. We also provide assistance to customers in California.”

Max’s Restaurant Bakersfield

4130 California Ave.

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-440-3325

maxsrestaurantna.com

“We are excited to open a Filipino Restaurant in Bakersfield. Max’s Restaurant was established in the Philippines in 1945 and have 180 branches worldwide. Bakersfield is the 22nd in North America.”

Miramar International – SilverKeyEmpire

10800 Stockdale Hwy., Ste. 101 Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-779-2807

“We specialize in Real Estate Residential & Residential Income Properties across California.”

The Playful Space

2005 Eye St., Ste. 4 Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-496-4965

theplayfulspacebakersfield.com

“We connect women through play & creativity. We add value to Kern County with art workshops, creative retreats and community art & wellness.”

UrbanCore Studios

1614 20th St.

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-398-2928

urbancorestudios.com

“We are a community powered hot yoga studio in the heart of Bakersfield.”

Wingstop

3720 Gosford Rd., Ste. F Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-835-9464

wingstop.com

"We are a quick-service restaurant that serves hot wings & more!"

Pacific Health Cognitive Center

5300 California Ave., #400 Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-282-9027

cognitivecenter.us

“We are a partial outpatient hospitalization program for adults and kids with mental disabilities.”

RIBBON CUTTINGS RIBBON CUTTINGS

PAST RIBBON CUTTINGS

UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS

Grand Opening Levare

Date: Wednesday, June 21

Time: 4 p.m.

Location: 4001 Alken St.

Celebrating the grand opening of California Service Center that provides energy-saving pumping systems and services for oil and gas, industrials, water municipals, agriculture, mining and geothermal industries.

Grand Opening Empire Aesthetic Center 4101 Empire Dr., Ste. 120 empireeyeandlaser.com/aesthetics/

Grand Opening Bakersfield Community HealthCare

Date: Tuesday, June 27

Time: 4 p.m.

Location: 1811 Oak St., . 125

Celebrating the grand opening of this adult day health care and activity center for adults 18 and older with chronic health conditions and for socialization.

Grand Opening Academy of Health Careers, Inc. 1701 Westwind Dr., Ste. 222 academyhealthcareers.com

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

SCHEDULE YOUR CEREMONY

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.

Access Plus Capital - 2017

Achilles Prosthetics & Orthotics - 2020

Bakersfield Rack & Shelving - 2008

Baymarr Constructors, Inc. - 1997

Bear Valley Springs Association - 2022

Best Western Plus Hill House - 1999

Bolthouse Farms, Inc. - 1995

Bureau of Land Management - 1993

California Fruit Depot - 2005

California Independent Petroleum Association - 1992

Children’s Advocates Resource Endowment - 2006

CityServe Network - 2019

Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center - 1997

CSF Medical Nonprofit Foundation - 2017

Cushman & Wakefield/Pacific - 1991

Dignity Health - Mercy Hospital Southwest - 2000

Elite Maintenance and Tree Service - 2022

Elite Private Landscape - 2022

GEI Consultants, Inc. - 2015

Golden 1 Credit Union - 2022

Griffith Company - 1930

Hydrostor - 2022

ICON Printing Solutions - 2016

John F. Stovall - 2005

Karpe Real Estate Center - 1920

Kern County Builders Exchange - 1957

La Costa Mariscos - Southwest - 2018

Luigi’s - 1997

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

Metropolitan Recycling LLC - 2011

Murray Family Farms, Inc. - 2004

MX4, Inc. McDonald’s Restaurant - 2019

National Cement Company - 2009

Placer Title Company - 2008

Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling - 2019

Royal Palms - 1996

Southern California Orthopedic Institute - 1999

The Petroleum Club at Sundale - 2002

United Refrigeration & Air Conditioning - 1999

Valley First Credit Union - 2022

Whitley Enterprises DBA Edible Arrangements - 2008

Wonderful Orchards - 1994

Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation - 2018

Member News

Leadership Bakersfield is thrilled to announce a partnership with Garden Pathways, a distinguished nonprofit organization providing exceptional mentoring and educational opportunities to the community. Together, they are hosting an exciting Bingo and Beer Fundraiser to support the Garden Pathways’ Downtown Education Center. The Bingo and Beer Fundraiser will take place on June 19 at Temblor Brewing Company, located at 3200 Buck Owens Blvd, Bakersfield, CA. The event will open its doors at 6 p.m., and the evening will kick off with a lively session of bingo games at 7 p.m. Participants will have the chance to win incredible prizes that have been generously donated by local businesses and community supporters. Furthermore, the event is designed to be family-friendly, with food and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. The best part? No advanced ticket purchase is required, so grab your family and friends and join in the fun! The Leadership Bakersfield team extends its heartfelt appreciation to Temblor Brewing Company, local businesses, and community members who have generously contributed their support. Opportunities for event sponsorship are still available, and contact Savannah Maldonado at smaldonado@capk.org for more information.

Chosen Payments, was acquired and as of June 1, 2023, the company rebranded to become Aurora Payments, one of the Top 10 Full-Service Merchant Services Providers in the nation. Chosen Payments joined the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce in 2016. Since that time, Chosen Payments has processed credit cards for the Chamber and many of its members. This rebranding will not change any existing relationships, fees or member offers. Chamber members will still enjoy exclusive, low rates, and savings normally reserved for large multi-location enterprises. Whether you operate a small business from home or have multiple locations, all Chamber members enjoy the same low rates. Aurora Payments also provides gift card/loyalty programs, POS systems, ACH check processing and guarantee, recurring payments, and electronic payment links such as text-to-pay among a suite of other services. To learn more about Aurora Payments, visit https://risewithaurora. com. For media inquiries contact Jim Luff, Corporate Communications Manager at jim.luff@risewithaurora.com or call at 805-910-1445.

North of the River Recreation and Park District (NOR) is excited to announce that the long-running Youth Summerball program returns to the community this Summer in June! NOR invites families to sign up their children for the off-season sport which includes boys baseball ages 8-15 and girls softball for ages 8-14. The registration fee to participate is $125 and includes a uniform & picture; residents living within NOR District boundaries receive a rate discount at registration. To make this program possible, NOR is seeking community support through volunteer coaches, seasonal recruitment of hourly positions, and local

program sponsorship. Volunteer Coaches: Coaches are instrumental to the success of the Summerball program and support the teams in the league; they inspire youth by creating a positive environment, serving as a role model, and promoting self-confidence. To learn more about volunteering for NOR and to express interest in volunteering to coach, visit HERE. Hourly Seasonal Positions: Recruitment for positions during the May through June season to support the program include Recreation Leaders (Site Supervisors), Umpires (Officials), and Scorekeepers. These positions support the operation of the games and are perfect for those passionate about sports. Applicants under 18 will also be considered for these positions with a valid work permit. To apply, visit HERE. Sponsorships: Businesses interested in supporting NOR can sponsor the Summerball program. Sponsors are acknowledged on NOR’s social media, at the program’s opening day, and on the field at Polo Community Park. To express interest in sponsoring the program, email jbernal@norrecreation.org. “We’re looking forward to a very successful year with the return of Summerball,” says Jasmin LoBasso, Superintendent of Recreation & Community Services. For additional information, please contact Jasmin LoBasso, Superintendent of Recreation at jlobasso@norrecreation.org or call 661-392-2000.

Nekter Juice Bar, located at 4420 Coffee Rd., is now open at Riverlakes Village! Pay them a visit today and experience the goodness of their handcrafted juices, smoothies and bowls made with love and care.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County is currently accepting registrations for Summer Day Camp for schoolaged children at the following Club sites: E.L. Jack and Monica Armstrong Youth Center (801 Niles St.), Stockdale Club (5207 Young St.) and Lamont Club (8301 Segrue Rd., Lamont). The Summer Day Camps start on June 5, 2023. Meals and snacks will be served to the children each day. The Boys & Girls Club Day Camps provide the quality, enriching experiences children seek. Daily themes and activities include arts and crafts, STEM, field trips, and outdoor games/activities. Programs are designed with age-appropriateness in mind, and the Youth Development Professionals work hard to meet the individual needs of the Club members. Families love that the Boys & Girls Club provides a traditional day camp experience within a Boys & Girls Club setting. Call 661-325-3730 for more information, and registrations are currently being accepted HERE

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County’s Stage Door Academy and Stars Theatre Restaurant will produce The SpongeBob Musical this summer for local youth. The workshops include dance, voice, and acting lessons directed by Frank Sierra and Jill Burdick. The production will have a morning session and an afternoon session. Each session will run Monday to Friday. “We have gathered some of the finest performing arts instructors in town to create a learning environment where our children

are inspired to stretch their imaginations, talents, and enthusiasm for performing. We are so excited to see our talented kids on stage and to share with family, friends, and the community what kids can accomplish given the right tools, education, and mentoring,” Zane Smith, Executive Director, Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County.

• Morning Session: June 5 through July 1 (9 a.m. to Noon)

• Afternoon session: June 12 through July 12 (1-4 p.m.)

Plunge into this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show! When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up. The power of optimism really can save the world! For more information, click HERE.

The League of Dreams is excited to announce the longanticipated return of its bowling league. Children, ages 5-22, with disabilities are encouraged to join others this season for a bowling experience adapted to their amazing abilities. The League of Dreams is excited to partner with Bowlero Bakersfield to host this year’s games. Games will be every Thursday 3-5 p.m., beginning June 15 and continuing through July 20. Volunteers are needed and may register HERE. In 2007, the League of Dreams began offering children with physical and cognitive disabilities the chance to play sports, beginning with baseball and basketball. The League has grown to offer a dozen different athletic programs to over 600 athletes in Kern County. The non-profit plans to expand to reach even more athletes in the coming year. For more information and to register for programs or to volunteer, please call 661-616-9122.

North of the River Recreation & Park District (NOR) is hosting a wide variety of camps, classes, programs, and activities for the community this Summer! Pick up a copy of NOR’s Summer 2023 Funbook at one of our community centers or view it online HERE to explore a full catalog of activities, camps, and recreational programs happening this Summer. Explore highlights from our Summer programs:

• Aquatics Beat the heat during Rec Swim starting June 27 at the Greenacres Pool.

• Stay safe and take Swim Lessons; Registration is open.

• Cool down at any of our 8 Spray Parks.

Community Discover NOR’s weekly scavenger hunt. Participate as much or as little as you’d like. End your week with a Movie in the Park. “It’s easy to enjoy a staycation in the North of the River community,” says Jasmin LoBasso, Superintendent of Recreation & Community Services. “By joining the fun at NOR, you’ll

transform your staycation into a ‘Playcation!’” For additional information, please contact Jasmin LoBasso, Superintendent of Recreation at jlobasso@norrecreation.org or 661.392.2000.

The Kern County Black Chamber of Commerce (KCBCC) will be holding their Midwest Invitational Black Rodeo on Wednesday, July 7 at the Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S P St. Join us! Tickets are:

$20/general admin, $25/VIP and $30/DOS. Tickets can be purchased at the KCBCC Office, 2623 F St., Ste. F, by calling 661-376-2853, or by emailing info@kcbcc.co during business hours [M-F: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.]. For more information, email info@kcbcc.co

Keep yourself and your family covered by making sure your information is up to date. Health Net wants you to know that Medi-Cal covers vital health care services for you & your family which includes: doctor visits, prescriptions, vaccinations, mental health care and more. If you have Medi-Cal make sure you renew it when it's due for renewal. Update your contact information: Report any new changes to your name, address, phone number & email so your county can contact you.

• Check your mail: Counties will mail you a letter about your Medi-Cal eligibility. You may need to complete a renewal form.

• If you’re sent a renewal form, submit your info by mail, phone, in person or online so you do not lose your coverage.

• Create or check your online account: Sign up to receive alerts on your case. You may submit renewals or requested information online.

• Complete your renewal form (if received) by mail, phone, in person, or online to avoid a gap in your coverage.

For more details & information on how to update your contact info, visit HERE

LABOR LAW & HR FORUM

Ensure Compliance with Our Labor Law Forum!

June 28, 8-10 a.m.

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 in 2023. Don't miss out on staying up to date and ensuring adherence to labor laws!

Co-Sponsored by Presented by

Upcoming Events

2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman of the Board

Ken Keller

Bakersfield Memorial Hospital - Dignity Health

Incoming Chairman

Rob Duchow Southern California Gas Company

Dr. Mary Barlow – Kern County Superintendent of Schools

Mark Bateman – Young Wooldridge LLP

Deanna Blaise – Valley Strong Credit Union

Bruce Davis – Bolthouse Properties

Octavio Escobedo – Tejon Indian Tribe

Kamal Gill – Brimhall Pharmacy/Panama Pharmacy

Maybelle Liquigan – Kaiser Permanente

Denise Newton – PG&E

Jacob Panero – Varner Bros, Inc.

Veronika Placencia – KERO-TV

G Riar – Riar, Inc.

Willie Rivera – Aera Energy

CHAMBER STAFF

Hillary Haenes

Interim President & CEO

Kami Gonzalez

Director, Administration & Operations

Concepcion "Cepi" Willingham

Member & Business Development Manager

Savanah Adams Manager, Stakeholder Engagement

Valerie Sheldon

Administrative Assistant

Patrice Black

Member Relations Coordinator

Get Social

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

@bakochamber

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE FOCUS

Access Plus Capital is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) serving 14 counties in Central Valley, Calif. Providing financial services and support to underinvested communities in the region, Access Plus Capital has been recognized for its commitment to promoting economic development and financial inclusion. The organization offers a range of financial products and services, including start-up loans and technical assistance, with a strong focus on technology and innovation to enhance its services and reach more customers. With its dedication to serving the needs of underinvested communities, Access Plus Capital is an important partner for community leaders, foundations and business owners in the Kern County region.

MAJOR INVESTORS

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE MEMBERS

BYNUM INC.