METR
A publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce | March 2019
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on the
INSIDE
4 CEO MESSAGE
Read about the initiatives and collaborations the Chamber is working on with our key partners.
5 WAGE AND HOUR PITFALLS
Learn all about wage and hour violations and how your business can stay compliant.
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CELEBRATE LOCAL BUSINESS Come and join us for Urner's 100 year anniversary.
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INDUSTRY LEADERS Meet the 2019 new Chamber Board members.
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LEADERSHIP 12 YOUTH BAKERSFIELD See what this year's class explored on its latest sessions.
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MEMBER NEWS Discover the latest news and happenings with other members.
RIBBON CUTTINGS Celebrate important milestones of fellow Chamber members.
Cover
Photo of a Youth Leadership Bakersfield student at PG&E's Service Center on Wible Road.
Contact us
#YourBusinessAdvocate 1725 Eye St. • PO Box 1947 Bakersfield, CA 93303 661.327.4421 bakersfieldchamber.org
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Metro is the official publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce. This publication is produced and digitally distributed to the Chamber’s membership at the beginning of each month. Every effort has been made to ensure the information in this publication is correct and accurate as of the publication date. Metro does not warrant the accuracy or claims of its advertisers. The Chamber President/CEO has the sole right to refuse any advertisement. Please send any comments, questions, article suggestions or advertising inquiries to jscheiber@bakersfieldchamber.org. © Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.
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GBCC
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
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or a short month, February was jampacked with activities and programs for your team at the Chamber. We continued to work through the implementation of Measure N - the City’s Public Safety and Vital Services Tax. Though this remains a delicate issue, we’re committed to working with city staff and elected leadership to make sure Nick Ortiz the business perspective is part of the conversation. Too much of the news reporting has been focused on who was voted onto the oversight committee; but now that the committee has begun their work, residents will see that this revenue will be a game changer for the city. There will be an increase in police presence, enhanced public spaces and targeted investments to improve our city. I believe that once taxpayers see the full picture, and not one individual spending proposal, they will be pleased with the result. February also marked the first Chamber mixer of the year. A huge thank you to our friends at BMW of Bakersfield for hosting our members! It was great to connect with longtime and newer Chamber members, and hear about their priorities and successes. That same night, in downtown Bakersfield, the community held the second annual Kern County Career Expo. Spearheaded by the Kern High School
District and Kern County Superintendent of Schools along with partners from higher education, business and key nonprofits; the Expo provides students with information about future careers and the educational pathways they need to think about to attain their preferred career. It’s not a job fair, but a way to get students to think seriously about their education as preparation for a career. The Chamber’s own Jean Scheiber works with a talented committee to assist in planning this Expo, and we are so delighted that this event has been embraced by students, parents, educators and business leaders. At the Chamber, the beginning of the year is a flurry of activity, planning for the year ahead for our organization and supporting our partners as they celebrate their new projects and goals. March marks the end of the beginning – we can no longer call it the “new year," we have to reevaluate all of those resolutions, and we even have to set our clocks forward! As we transition from winter to spring, and work through our annual business plan and program priorities; please know how important you and your business are to the community. It is only through your investment and support that amazing things can happen: Funding for 100 new police officers, events to get kids on the pathway for their career of choice, or just supporting and encouraging commerce and growth between local businesses. Thank you for all that YOU do, and for letting us serve you.
Nick Ortiz
President/CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce
Snaphsots from the Kern County Career Expo - Thursday, February 28, 2019 METRO | PAGE 4
ECONOMIC VITALITY
LABOR LAW & HR FORUM
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ith constantly-changing regulations, it can be hard to stay up-to-date on how to keep your business in compliance. The Chamber gives our members access to the area's top legal experts to help them stay informed about employment law updates and HR topics. During this two-hour forum, attorney Jerry Pearson, of Young Wooldridge LLP, will explain all about wage and hour violations and how businesses can stay compliant. This is an interactive forum where attendees are encouraged to ask questions to resolve these issues. Cost is $25 for members; $50 for nonmembers. A light breakfast will be Jerry Pearson provided. Register at bakersfieldchamber.org. Cancellations must be received within 24 hours in advance to preclude billing.
How to attend Labor Law & HR Forum Date: Thursday, March 21 Registration/Networking: 7:30 a.m. Program: 8-10 a.m. Location: Chamber Office 1725 Eye St. Cost: $25 members |$50 for nonmembers Register at bakersfieldchamber.org
Top 10 wage and hour pitfalls. Including… • Are your workers employees or independent contractors? • Are your employees exempt or non-exempt? • What is proper reimbursement for business expenses? • When can your employees legally waive a meal period? • What is the current definition of compensable time? • How to properly calculate the regular rate of pay.
Labor Law & HR Forum Presenting Sponsor LLP
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MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
Bringing members
TOGETHER
T
hank you BMW of Bakersfield for hosting our first mixer of the year. On Feb. 28, attendees enjoyed delicious small bites by Sol Y Luna and had a chance to win great raffle prizes. Here's a look at some of the moments captured by April & Co. Hosted by:
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Urner's - Celebrating 100 Years in Business
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veryone loves a good hometown story. Urner’s is the quintessential success story of a local business that made good. Not many family owned businesses can boast of 100 years in business. Even fewer can trace their beginnings to the back of a bicycle. Through the closing moments of World War l, The Great Depression, World War ll, 16 recessions, and the devastating Bakersfield earthquake of 1952, Urner’s has served as a trusted and respected retailer in Bakersfield. Urner’s remains as true as ever to their primary focus: Providing great products, sold by great people, to great customers. Still family owned and operated, the fourth generation of the Urner’s family is making its mark on David E. Urner receiving keys to homes throughout Kern first delivery truck County. Urner’s was the dreamchild of David E. Urner, a local high school teacher and football coach at Kern Union High School (now Bakersfield High School), who spent his summer months selling Wear Ever cookware off the back of a bicycle. That’s dedication to a dream, as Bakersfield summers were just as hot back then. David teamed up with another local teacher, Errol P. Janes. In their words, they would create “a new type of store – one that would cater exclusively to providing an easier way of living.” In the summer of 1919, Urner & Janes was opened to the public at the corner of 17th and Chester, near the then-location of the historic Clock Tower. The original store boasted a rather impressive selection of “modern” appliances, including a Blue Bird washing machine, auto vacuum freezer, fireless gas range, electric sewing machines, Fuller brushes, Wear-Ever pots and pans, and the electric phonograph soon followed. In 1923, Urner & Janes delivered Bakersfield’s first electric refrigerator to the home of Charles Barlow, now known as The Guild House. Following the stock market crash of 1929 and at beginning of the Great Depression, the company was closed and the original partnership was dissolved, but the dream lived on. Errol Janes returned to teaching and Dave Urner soon reopened as Urner’s Appliance Center on Eye Street. In 1937, Urner’s introduced the first
automatic washing machine manufactured by Bendix, commonly referred to as the “wonder” machine. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor and American engagement in WW ll, Urner’s could no longer acquire major appliances since all available metal was being used toward the war production efforts. However, Urner’s remained open by selling toys, dishes, high chairs and other useful household goods. They also continued serving the Family in front of store, circa customers by servicing and 1959 repairing existing appliances. In the postwar period, as Bakersfield grew exponentially, so did the demand for new appliances and furniture. As our city expanded and new neighborhoods sprouted, the next generation of Bakersfield consumers remained loyal to not only Urner’s fantastic selection but their amazing customer service. It’s that commitment to the customer that has defined the Urner’s brand we know and love today. In 2000, Urner’s relocated from their downtown storefront to the current superstore location near the Bakersfield Auto Mall. Urner’s expanded and opened their first mattress superstore, Z’s Please Sleep Center, in Northwest Bakersfield in 2012; and in 2018, they added a second Z’s Please location. Arguably, the best specialty mattress showroom in the state of California, Z’s Please is keeping the Urner’s tradition alive and well with excellent selection and service. Urner’s currently has more than 50 employees and serves most areas of Kern County. The Urner’s family and their employees are an integral part of the Bakersfield community, who consistently support community organizations, local nonprofits and education. Bicycle deliveries have been replaced by a fleet of trucks, but the dedication to making life easier will persevere, with the support of their customers, for another 100 years.
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NEW BOARD MEMBERS
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he Chamber is excited to introduce its new members who serve on the Board of Directors. These new board members come from various industry sectors and bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help the Chamber better serve its membership.
Andy Anderson
Senior Vice President of Operations, Aera Energy LLC Andy Anderson is the Senior Vice President of Operations at Aera Energy. Upon obtaining his chemical engineering degree from Stanford University in 1981, Andy joined Shell as an engineer in New Orleans. He held a series of engineering assignments in New Orleans and Houston before becoming the Business Advisor for Shell’s Central Division. After transferring to California Andy Anderson in 1989, Andy performed various roles in engineering. He became Technology Manager for the Ventura Asset prior to the start of Aera. At Aera, Andy has held positions as Operations Manager of Coalinga & San Ardo, Operations Manager of Midway Sunset, Vice President of West Coast Heavy, and Vice President of Belridge, before assuming his current role. Andy has been active in Western States Petroleum Association, serving as the Production Committee chairperson for two years. He is married to wife, Patricia, and they have two adult sons.
Sharlet Briggs
CEO, Adventist Health Bakersfield Dr. Sharlet Briggs has been around hospitals for many years. Her foray into healthcare started when she was born on a dark foggy night in a hospital in Eureka, Calif. She gained valuable, behind-the-scenes insights of hospitals through a tonsillectomy and many nights spent in the emergency room with her older brother. Her mother often said “something good has got to come out of all these hospital visits.” Little did Sharlet Briggs she know that she was setting the course for Sharlet to one day become a hospital CEO. Realizing that being a patient or riding along with her brother to the emergency room wasn’t necessarily a direct path to becoming a healthcare executive, Sharlet took the circuitous route of a medical records clerk, moving to a director position within two years after obtaining her degree. Quickly making a name for herself, she was blessed — or cursed — with the challenge of turning struggling departments around. Throughout her career, Sharlet has overseen a variety of hospital areas, everything from nursing units to maintenance, admitting, clinical lab, decision support, marketing and more. Over the last several years, she has held the executive positions for clinical quality, business development and METRO | PAGE 8
operations before being named the President and CEO of Adventist Health Bakersfield and Adventist Health Tehachapi Valley. In addition to these roles, Sharlet is also a clinical psychologist. Her two favorite things about her job are rounding to visit her employees and taking visitors on tours of the facilities to showcase the incredible work being performed every day. Sharlet is often asked, “Why would a clinical psychologist want to become a hospital CEO?” As she says, “It’s all about the people. Our community trusts us to deliver high-quality, compassionate health care every day. My goal is to remove barriers and inspire our staff to embrace our mission of living God’s love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.”
Rick Jhaj
Owner/Chief Development Officer Countryside Market & Restaurants Born and raised in the Central Valley, Rick Jhaj is a first generation Indian-American. His parents immigrated to the United States from Punjab, India. Rick was born in Fresno and lived in a farm labor camp in Mendota, Calif., where his parents started their life in America working in the fields as farm workers. His family eventually moved to Bakersfield where he attended school. In college, he pursued his business degree at California Rick Jhaj State University, Bakersfield. Soon after, he obtained his general contractor’s license. In 2006, Rick opened his own construction company, which is known as Countryside Construction today. Rick is also the Chief Development Officer for Countryside Corp. Rick, along with his family, owns Countryside Construction & Real Estate Development and Countryside Market and Restaurants. They operate various franchises (Subway, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Brookside and Shell Gas Stations), and employ more than 400 people throughout Kern and Tulare counties. They have been in business for more than 25 years, and take great pride to bring development to underserviced areas. Rick is an approved commercial builder for many national brands and builds not only for his own family businesses, but has helped others to build their businesses from the ground up, throughout California. Rick was recently appointed by the Kern County Board of Supervisors to the Planning Commission. He volunteers his time and resources to the Bakersfield Homeless Center, Sikh Women’s Association and various other community organizations and events. For his efforts in business and community service, Rick was recently recognized by Bakersfield Life Magazine, “20 under 40” People to Watch. He is happily married to his wife, Neetu, and they have two daughters, Raiya and Rehna.
NEW BOARD MEMBERS Ken Keller
President and Chief Executive Officer Bakersfield Memorial Hospital (BMH) Ken Keller is a seasoned health care executive with nearly 30 years of experience across multiple aspects of the health care terrain. Ken has a unique perspective in supporting the delivery of health care gained from his time in leading health plan, hospital and physician organizations, each with its own dynamics. As a former health plan administrator, Ken also understands financing Ken Keller health care delivery and the necessary interface with employers and consumers to attain positive partnerships. Ken was promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer of Bakersfield Memorial Hospital (BMH) in December of 2018. Prior to his promotion, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of BMH for nearly four years. He started at BMH in 2003, when he became Vice President of Physician and Business Development (VPBD), a role he held for five years. Ken received a Master of Business Administration from the University of New Orleans and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette, LA. He serves as a member of the American Heart Association Board of Directors in Bakersfield; the Ronald McDonald House Board of Trustees in both New Orleans and Bakersfield; the Managed Care Advisory Group for Louisiana Department of Insurance; and the California Association of Physician Groups.
Jacob Panero
Chief Executive Officer, Varner Bros. Inc. Born and raised in Bakersfield, Jacob Panero attended local schools and graduated with honors from the University of California, Davis. Jacob has been employed with the refuse and recycling firm, Varner Bros., Inc. (VBI) for more than 20 years, and is currently the Chief Executive Officer. Jacob has been involved in every facet of the business and has developed and spearheaded numerous Jacob Panero large-scale projects, contracts and expansions for VBI and sister company, Metropolitan Recycling, LLC. Jacob serves as the youngest President in the history of the California Refuse Recycling Council, a statewide industry association for refuse and recycling. In the community, Jacob is a proud Past-President of Bakersfield North Rotary. He is also a board member of the Bakersfield Memorial Hospital Foundation, California State University, Bakersfield Foundation and CSUB’s Business and Public Administration Executive Advisory Council, and the John Brock Community Service Award. Recently, Jacob joined the new local angel investing group, Kern Venture Group, as a General Partner. Jacob is married to wife Nicole, and together they have four children.
SAVE THE DATE FOR UPCOMING CHAMBER AFTER HOUR MIXERS MARCH 28 Urner's Appliance and TV 4110 Wible Rd. 4:30 p.m. Ribbon Cutting 5:00-7:30 p.m. Mixer APRIL 24 Castle & Cooke – Highgate Regents Clubhouse 2100 Highbury St. 5:30-7:30 p.m.
MAY 23 Jim Burke Ford 2001 Oak St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. JUNE 27 Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center Health & Wellness Cafe 6501 Truxtun Ave. 5:30-7:30 p.m. JULY 25 Spectrum Reach Locaction TBA 5:30-7:30 p.m. METRO | PAGE 9
alley Republic Bank truly understands what great customer service looks like. They show us every day.”
J IM L AM AR President/CEO Greenlawn Funeral Home & Cemeteries Three years ago, when Jim LaMar began interviewing local banks, Valley Republic was the obvious choice. Along with the welcoming, hometown honesty, the Bank’s staff made the transition of moving accounts easy and seamless. LaMar was also quick to add that the funding of the new Celebration of Life Center was pleasant and easy. “If you don’t bank with Valley Republic Bank, I encourage you to visit one of their branches and feel the difference for yourself.”
Local. Responsive. Reliable. 5000 California Avenue, Suite 110 | 4300 Coffee Road, Suite A6 11330 Ming Avenue, Suite 400 510 Woollomes Avenue, Suite 106, Delano
valleyrepublicbank.com | 661.371.2000 Valley Republic Bancorp
(VLLX)
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LEADERSHIP & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
YOUTH LEADERSHIP BAKERSFIELD Health & Human Services Day This session gave students a better understanding of the health and human services available in our community and the available career opportunities in this industry. Amy Travis, with CASA of Kern County, explained the history and facts of the organization and the services offered. The students were then given a tour of The Bakersfield Homeless Center. They learned how its jobs program is helping homeless families get back on their feet, and how its staff cares for residents. Kern’s growing health care industry was the focus of the session's second half. Adventist Health Bakersfield gave exclusive access to its AIS Cancer Center, Outpatient Surgery Center and helipad, where students saw the latest equipment doctors are using to save lives. At lunch, a panel of health care professionals shared their knowledge and discussed different job opportunities within the health care industry. When students arrived at the Kern County Public Health Department that afternoon, they were greeted by Director Matt Constantine and news reporters. The issue at hand – an E. coli outbreak. Students were then divided into strike teams to interview victims. A student from each strike team then had the task of reporting their team’s findings at a mock press conference. While there was no real outbreak, Constantine explained the exercise was a reality his department needs to be equipped to handle. The Chamber would like to thank Youth Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Day Chairs Vin Dang, Empire Eye & Laser Center; and Danay Jones, Adventist Health Bakersfield. A special thank you to our day sponsor Adventist Health Bakersfield.
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Energy Day Students learned that Kern’s energy sector is tied to more than just oil fields. The session started off at PG&E’s Service Center off Wible Road and put on gloves and hard hats to see exactly what dangerous situations linemen take on daily to keep the lights on. At Aera Energy LLC, Aimee Blaine, the company’s senior vice president of technical, shared her inspirational story of landing her first engineering job. The students had the opportunity to hear from a panel of speakers with a wide array of expertise and skills. The panel featured an environmental field specialist and an electrical outreach specialist from PG&E, an engineer and an information supervisor from Aera. The panelists shared their backgrounds and advice with students. The day concluded with Aera employees leading students through hands-on activities that gave them a better understanding of different job roles in the oil industry. The Chamber would like to thank Youth Leadership Bakersfield Day Chairs Tracy Lopez, PG&E; LaMeka Ross, Aera Energy LLC; and Sasha Windes, Kern Green; and Day Assistant Danay Jones, Adventist Health Bakersfield. A special thank you to day sponsors Aera Energy LLC, California Resources Corporation, Chevron and PG&E.
LEADERSHIP & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
LEADERSHIP BAKERSFIELD
T
he Leadership Bakersfield class saw how local schools are shaping the next generation, and what preparations are underway to keep up with the everchanging education standards. In a panel discussion, leaders from several school districts spoke about the issues and challenges their schools are facing. Class members had the opportunity to ride a Kern County Superintendent School bus and hear from the transportation department about the logistics of safely and efficiently getting children to and from school in a costeffective manner. Through tours, hands-on activities and discussions with students and staff, the class also visited several alternative schools, including the Bakersfield Adult School, Kelly F. Blanton Student Education Center and Claude W. Richardson Center, which are working to guarantee that all students have the access to a quality education. Top officials from local colleges and universities also explained what the future holds for higher education, students and potential employers. In addition, class members visited East Bakersfield High to learn about its Digital Arts and Technology Academy. The Chamber would like to thank Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Day Chair Brian Cortez, Kern County Superintendent of Schools. A special thanks to day sponsor Kern County Superintendent of Schools and to Golden
Program Underwriter
METRO | PAGE 13
PROMOTING OUR COMMUNITY
MEMBER NEWS • ARRC Technology is hosting
“Hacking the Hacker,” a cybersecurity training, on March 14 from 12-2 p.m. at 1600 Mill Rock Way. This is a free lunch event for business owners to attend with their employees to educate as many people about the importance of cybersecurity. There is limited seating so register now at www.arrc.com/ hacking-the-hacker. • Wind Wolves Preserve is hosting its annual Spring Nature Festival on March 16-17. Join the staff, guest experts and nature enthusiasts in a variety of activities including guided hikes, wildlife and wildflower viewing and virtual rock art experience, etc. For more information, visit https://www. wildlandsconservancy.org. • Artmix, a curated cocktail party, is happening March 21. Indulge in signature cocktails and culinary delights from Bakersfield’s top eateries with an art auction and “off the wall” art sale. Proceeds benefit the Bakersfield Museum of Art fund. For more information, visit www.bmoa.org/artmix. • The Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra presents its 2019 Gala – Come Together – with guitar artist Laurence Juber on March 22 at 6 p.m. at Rabobank Theater. There will be live entertainment, dinner and a chance to win prizes. Individual tickets are $125. For sponsorship information or to purchase tickets, please call 661-3237928. • The Third Annual Kern County STEMposium, presented by the Kern Economic Development Foundation will be held April 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kern County Fairgrounds. For more information or for businesses to participate, contact Cheryl Scott at Cheryl@kedc.com or visit www.kedf. org. METRO | PAGE 14
• The keynote speaker at the 30th
Annual Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference is actress Shannen Doherty. The closing speaker is Jay Shetty, who has amassed more than 3 billion views on his videos with 20 million followers across social media and has started three multimillion dollar businesses. The conference will be held on April 25. For more information, visit www.bakersfieldwomen.org. • Six Flags Magic Mountain is having a Private Party on May 3. You, along with friends and family, are invited to participate. For tickets visit www. SixFlags.com/MagicMountain and enter promo code MAY1 and parking is FREE for this event! • The Bakersfield Museum of Art is calling all California artists to submit work for the 2019 Visual Arts Festival. The theme is sublime, which has long been understood in the arts to mean a quality of greatness or grandeur that inspires awe and wonder. Enter up to three new or recent works of art following this year’s theme for a chance to have them on display and on consignment during the festival from May 9 to Aug. 18. The entry fee is $40 for BMoA members; $50 for nonmembers. All entries must be digitally submitted by Apr. 25 at 11:59 p.m. For registration and eligibility information, visit www.bmoa.org/ VAfestival. • The Village at Seven Oaks is excited to be the new home to the Annual Kern County Senior Games. The games will be held on May 8 from 8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Spread the word and stay tuned for more information! For more information, visit https:// villageatsevenoaks.com/.
• McCormick Biological is
hiring for a Biological Technician part-time position. To view the full job description, visit www. mccormickbiologicalinc.com/ employment. Interested candidates can download the application online. For questions or to submit materials for the position, send an email to www.mccormickbiologicalinc.com/ employment. • Big Brand Tire & Service is helping to raise money for schools or organizations with its School & Youth Fundraiser Certificate. Each certificate has a value of more than $200 in automotive services, including two free oil changes and it costs only $25! You keep 100 percent of the profits to put toward your organization’s fundraising efforts! For more information, visit: https://www.bigbrandtire.com/hotdeals/ fundraiser. • The Electronic Transactions Association (ETA) selected Jeff Brodsly of Chosen Payments for the 2019 Forty Under 40 class, highlighting game-changers at the intersection of payments and technology. The ETA is the global trade association representing more than 500 payments and technology companies. • Congrats to Kern County Family Magazine for winning awards in the 2019 Parenting Media Association’s annual Editorial & Design competition. KCFM brought home the Gold for design of the October 2018 cover and Silver for the Holiday Christmas Song/ Activity Book cover. The awards were presented in Tampa, Fla.
PROMOTING OUR COMMUNITY
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Strata Credit Union (formerly Kern Federal Credit Union) 1717 Truxtun Ave. www.stratacu.org
Dentists of Bakersfield/Bakersfield Kids' Dentistry & Orthodontics 1403 Allen Rd., Ste. 1000 www.dentistsofbakersfield.com
Century 21 Jordan Link Co.
Advanced Data Storage
8500 Stockdale Hwy., Ste. 190 www.jordanlink.com
6001 Schirra Ct.
www.advanceddatastorage.com
MARCH RIBBON CUTTINGS REBRANDING Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bakersfield (formerly Health South) Date: Thursday, March 14 Time: 4:00 p.m. 5001 Commerce Dr.
GRAND OPENING Hagan Law Group LLP Date: Thursday, March 21 Time: 4:00 p.m. 2031 F St.
GRAND OPENING Centric Urgent Care Date: Thursday, April 11 Time: 4:00 p.m. 4531 Buena Vista Rd., Ste. 100
METRO | PAGE 15
NEW MEMBERS We’d like to extend a warm welcome to the companies who have joined the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Thank you for investing in our mission to provide a healthy business climate in Kern County. If you know of a company interested in joining, please contact Andrea Johnston at ajohnston@bakersfieldchamber.org. ACH – Aftermath Cleanup and Hauling Bakersfield, CA 661-805-0527 www.achservices.us “We are a full-service demolition, junk removal, hauling, clean up Construction Company. You name it, we can handle it. Roll off trash bin rental services available. General labor and moving services. We offer general construction services to meet your needs.” Grimmway Schools 5080 California Ave., Ste. 100 Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-489-4621 www.grimmwayschools.org “Grimmway Schools is a growing network of high-performing, collegeprep public charter schools in Kern County, Calif. Our schools are lead by a home office, based in Bakersfield.” Heredia Cabling Solutions, Inc. 5907 Woodmere Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93313 661-364-5381 www.herediacablingsolutions.com “Heredia Cabling Solutions (HCS) provides professional structured cabling installation services for computer networking, fiber optic cabling, telecommunications, audio visual, public address and surveillance systems.” Kern Driving and Traffic School 2418 F St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-325-2650 http://kerndrivingandtrafficschool.com “Kern Driving & Traffic School has been serving the Bakersfield community for over 25 years. Driver education and training makes everyone on the road safer.”
Kern River Transitional Care 5151 Knudsen Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93308 661.325.9900 http://kernrivertc.com “Our goal is to create a lasting positive impact on our residents and families and to provide exceptional nursing care. We are dedicated to our mission.” Mr. Electric of Bakersfield 5630 District Blvd., Ste. 130 Bakersfield, CA 93313 661-282-1912 www.mrelectric.com/Bakersfield “Researches, develops, designs, and test electrical components, equipment and systems. Repairs and maintains electrical equipment. Removes and replaces fuses and defective lights.” PorkChop & Bubba’s BBQ 1230 H St., Ste. A Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-520-4227 www.porkchopandbubbasbbq.com Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers 3224 Coffee Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-589-1888 www.raisingcanes.com “Fresh, never frozen, quality chicken finger meals. Juicy chicken fingers, Texas toast, crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw and our Secret Recipe Cane’s Sauce.” Victor’s Mexican Grill – Brimhall Rd. 9500 Brimhall Rd., Ste. 504 Bakersfield, CA 93312 661-588-0004 www.victorsmexicangrill.com "Victor’s Mexican Grill offers creative, healthy, and convenient options for fast and fresh Mexican-inspired food in a welcoming atmosphere. Our goal is to deliver an exceptional dining experience to every customer, every time."
Victor’s Mexican Grill – Downtown 1901 20th St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-489-3000 www.victorsmexicangrill.com "Victor’s Mexican Grill offers creative, healthy, and convenient options for fast and fresh Mexican-inspired food in a welcoming atmosphere. Our goal is to deliver an exceptional dining experience to every customer, every time." Victor’s Mexican Grill – Mt. Vernon 2509 Mt. Vernon Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93306 661-843-7070 www.victorsmexicangrill.com "Victor’s Mexican Grill offers creative, healthy, and convenient options for fast and fresh Mexican-inspired food in a welcoming atmosphere. Our goal is to deliver an exceptional dining experience to every customer, every time."
DID YOU KNOW? A complete list of the Chamber's membership can be found on our online business directory. Visit bakersfieldchamber.org to check it out!
HOW WE WORK FOR OUR MEMBERS Trusted Advocacy
A Strong Brand
Members-Only Benefits
We fight job-killing legislation and work hard to maintain a favorable business climate in Bakersfield and Kern County.
Near universal name recognition and the highest positive rating among similar business organizations.
Includes notary public services, marketing opportunities, certificates of origin, ribbon cuttings and more.
Compliance
Lasting Connections
Invaluable Promotion
We provide the tools, resources and access to keep members in the know about California’s always-changing laws and latest HR topics.
Bridge the gap between nonprofits, small businesses and large corporations with mixers, procurement events and our Ambassador Committee.
We receive hundreds of inquires and we only refer our members. Your listing in our online and annual printed directories is also seen by thousands.
METRO | PAGE 16
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 ensure a healthy business climate for our community.
MARCH 2019 3.15.19
Government Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Chamber
3.21.19
Labor Law & HR Forum 7:30 a.m. | Chamber
3.26.19
Ambassador Committee Noon | Chamber
3.28.19
Chamber Ribbon Cutting & Mixer 4:30 p.m. | Urner's Appliance and TV
3.29.19
Government Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Chamber
8minutenergy Renewables, LLC – 2013 Advance Communications & Consulting, Inc. – 2001 Aera Energy LLC – 1981 Bakersfield College – 1974 Bakersfield Country Club – 1991 Bakersfield Drug Testing – 2007 Bakersfield Electric Motor Repair, Inc. – 1967 Bakersfield Museum of Art – 1996 Bank of the Sierra – California Ave. – 2017 Baymarr Constructors, Inc. – 1997 Bella at the Marketplace – 2000 Blackwell Land, LLC – 1983 Bolthouse Farms, Inc. – 1995 Law Offices of Borton Petrini LLP – 1951 Calcot, Ltd. – 1953 California Resources Corporation – 1970 Carney’s Business Technology Center – 1984 Chosen Payments – 2016 Citizens Business Bank – 17th St. Branch – 1983 Commercial Trade Inc. – 1988 Core Chiropractic + Wellness – 2018 Courtyard by Marriott Hotel – 1997 CSF Medical Nonprofit Foundation – 2017 Danny G. Dane, Tax & Financial Services – 1992 Dignity Health – Memorial Hospital – 1983 Dignity Health – Mercy Hospital Downtown – 1948 Dignity Health – Mercy Hospital Southwest – 2000 Doughty-Calhoun-O’Meara Funeral Directors – 1929 Energy Project Solutions LLC – 2014
Esparza Enterprises, Inc. – 2001 Family Motors Auto Body & Paint, Inc. – 2005 First Assembly of God – 2002 Frito-Lay, Inc. – 1995 Garden Pathways, Inc. – 2000 Golden West Casino – 1996 Greg’s Petroleum Service – 2018 Heart of Nature (NV), LLC – 2011 IN GOD WE TRUST AMERICA, INC. – 2013 Kern County Medical Society – 1948 Kisco Sales, Inc. – 1974 Lee’s Clinical Pharmacy – 2006 Macpherson Energy Corporation – 2017 Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center – 2016 Minuteman Press – 1991 Mission Linen & Uniform Service – 1940 Placer Title Company – 2008 Point Loma Nazarene University – 2008 Purveyor House – 2018 Rival Technology Inc. – 2018 Riverstone Capital LLC – 2017 Robert Heely Construction, LP – 2014 Southern California Edison – 2012 State Farm – Keith Stonebraker Insurance Agency, Inc. – 2004 Sunpower by Quality Home Services – 2017 Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino – 2007 Tejon Ranch Company – 1956 UBS/Financial Services – 1987 Valley Children’s Healthcare – 2012 Westec – 2011 Williams Adams & Company, CPAs – 2018 The Wonderful Company – 1994 Wood & Randall – 2004
ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Advertising in Chamber publications, website and email blasts – it’s an exclusivity that only Chamber members enjoy.
MEMBER TO MEMBER EMAIL BLASTS Member to Member email blasts are paid advertisements that the Chamber sends out on behalf of our members. With a reach of more than 4,300 email contacts, it’s the perfect option to promote your brand.
METRO
For more information about any of our events, committees or councils, visit bakersfieldchamber.org.
A staple of news and informative for members, METRO is sent out monthly to our members. This digital publication features Chamber programming and events as well as regulatory changes that can impact our members' bottom lines. All advertisements will link back to your company's website. For more information, contact Jean Scheiber at jscheiber@bakersfieldchamber.org METRO | PAGE 17
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE FOCUS 2019 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chairwoman of the Board Darlene Mohlke Castle & Cooke California, Inc. Chairman Elect of the Board Derek Jeffery KGET-TV 17 Vice Chair Public Policy & Political Action Rob Duchow Southern California Gas Company Vice Chair Economic Vitality Susan M. Benham Dignity Health Memorial Hospital Vice Chair Member Engagement Tasha Clayton Tel-Tec Security Systems, Inc. Vice Chair Leadership & Workforce Development Denise Newton Pacific Gas & Electric Company Treasurer Andy Paulden Brown Armstrong Accountants Member-at-Large Pritesh Patel Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center Immediate Past Chairwoman Carla Musser Retired General Counsel Mark Bateman Young Wooldridge LLP
Deprigo is a Marketing, Promotional and Print company dedicated to uplifting the community through media engagement. We offer services to the Health Care and Nonprofit Organizations.
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE MEMBERS
BOARD MEMBERS
Andy Anderson Aera Energy LLC Mary Barlow Kern County Superintendent of Schools Kristen Beall Kern Community Foundation Sharlet Briggs Adventist Health Bakersfield Don Bynum Temblor Brewing LLC Gregory D. Bynum & Associates, Inc. Dr. Sonya Christian Bakersfield College Leslie Golich Kaiser Permanente Kern County Rick Jhaj Countryside Construction/Countryside Markets Ken Keller Dignity Health Memorial Hospital Jacob Panero Varner Bros. Inc. G Riar Deprigo
EVERYTHING FOR YOUR OFFICE
CHAMBER STAFF Nick Ortiz | President/CEO Jean Scheiber | Vice President/ Chief Operating Officer Patrice Black | Member Relations Coordinator Kaelyn Peterson | Manager, Policy & Public Affairs Hillary Haenes | Vice President, Member Engagement Andrea Johnston | Business Development Manager Sarah Hinzo | Executive Assistant, Leadership & Operations Janet Ursery | Executive Assistant, Information Services
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