Metro March 2024

Actual

Message from the CEO

Herstory in the Making: Honoring Women's Leadership at the Chamber

"Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m Possible’” ─ Audrey Hepburn

Those wise words by the iconic Audrey Hepburn serve as my daily reminder of the boundless potential we each possess. I firmly believe that I am possible, and so are you!

The genesis of this edition was sparked by a simple yet profound question: “Who was the first female President & CEO of the Chamber?”

With the firm belief that anything is possible, we present to you this special edition of Metro, aptly titled Herstory.

As you read through the pages ahead, dedicated to highlighting female Chamber leaders and women within our business and community spheres, I hope youʼll discover something new and perhaps cultivate deeper admiration. But above all, my wish is for you to feel inspired.

“We rise by lifting others.” –Robert Ingersoll

That is exactly what the Chamber’s first President, Diane Rotondo, was able to do as she set the stage for Chris Frank, who went on to become the very first President & CEO. Chris designed and led a Capital Campaign to raise revenue for the building that we are still in today.

I was blessed to talk with Chris about her many years at the Chamber, working with community leaders and affecting change in public policy, creating the Bakersfield Political Action Committee (BAKPAC). She set the stage for a new reign of female leaders, including Debbie Moreno who served for 8 years, and Cynthia

Pollard who led the Chamber for two more. “Make history in your world…you never know who might end up changing the world because of you.” − Maria Shriver

The March Metro celebrates women in history and their ripple effect on our Chamber, city and community. I also share a little about my thoughts on women leaders, ‘having it all’ and what’s to come for the Chamber.

PS - A special shout out to Joel, Collin, Raegina and Justin from Hey Salty for making this Metro one for the memory books. Now turn the page and enjoy!

Growing and Grateful,

Janelle Capra President & CEO

Greater Bakersfield Chamber

Janelle Capra (left) and Chris Frank (right)

Kern Education Pledge - 2023

Beautiful Bakersfield Award: A Better Bakersfield

The Beautiful Bakersfield Awards is one of the most lovely evenings of the year as it highlights the admirable work of individuals and businesses helping build a better Bakersfield.

Among the exceptional nominees recognized for their outstanding contributions to local academia, the Kern Education Pledge (KEP) was honored with the 2023 Education Award. KEP has successfully brought together 46 school districts and higher education institutions in Kern County, fostering collaboration to improve student outcomes and readiness through monthly workgroup meetings.

The pledge specifically prioritizes support for students of color, low-income families and first-generation college students. In 2022, our collaborative efforts expanded, resulting in over 11,000 students participating in dual enrollment pathway coursework.

Through KEP, the Kern Integrated Data System (KiDS) was established. Last year, KiDS partnered with Cal State Bakersfield and the Kern Community College District to streamline access to necessary immunization records for student enrollment.

It is exciting to be nominated for an award, however, day-of-event anticipation awaiting the results, you quickly become anxious. When we heard that the Kern Education Pledge had won, our team was elated as we took to the stage to accept the award.

Dr. Mary Barlow delivered the acceptance speech, and I stood on stage, beaming with pride.

To have the joy to stand on stage and receive

accolades for this very collaborative effort of the many educators and community partners was incredibly humbling and a tremendous honor.

Our simple shared goal is to help students in Kern County. We are people who care very deeply about others and we want to make this a better place for all of us for years to come.

Every year I attend the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, I am incredibly inspired by the tremendous work being done by so many in our community. I always leave motivated to work just a little harder in my own ways to make it a better Bakersfield and boundless Kern.

Amanda Frank

Director Of Community Relations at Kern County Superintendent of Schools (and the former Kern Education Pledge Coordinator)

Kern Education Pledge representatives from the Kern County Superintendent of Schools from left to right: Local, Regional and Statewide Systems of Support Administrator Kimberly Graham, Dr. Mary Barlow, retired Superintendent and Director of Community Relations, Amanda Frank

HER STORY & NAVIGATING CHALLENGES:

Janelle Capra's Wisdom on 'Having it All'

Women’s History Month is commemorated each March, and one of the many ways we are celebrating is by highlighting the experiences and contributions of Bakersfield’s female leaders.

Since its establishment in 1920, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber has seen only five women at its helm. Among these trailblazers is our current President and CEO, Janelle Capra. Appointed in January 2024, she brings a wealth of leadership experience to the Chamber.

Her approach to leadership can be succinctly captured in her profound yet straightforward statement:

“Leaders listen more than they talk. A leader is not a boss, but someone willing to do the hard work and support others in ways that are not always easy and comfortable.”

“have it all.” But what does that truly mean?

“We need to take ownership of what that means for us individually. Having it all is really about choosing whatʼs most important to us” she said. “When I became a mother, my measurement of success was flexibility, not the paycheck or title. It was a choice to work part-time so that I could be more involved at home and volunteer at my daughterʼs school.”

"When we know better, it’s our job to do better and uncover these truths for ourselves."

While American society may appear to have moved past gender inequalities, they remain. Throughout her career, Capra has confronted obstacles familiar to women everywhere, and she does not shy away from acknowledging that gender disparities persist, from the wage gap to double standards in the workplace and beyond.

Capra believes that women encounter modern challenges, such as the pressure and expectation to

Capra advises women to present their best selves, which, for her, involves being present for the people around her and rethinking what success means.

During her time as a blogger for the Huff Post, she was inspired by its founder Arianna Huffington to look at success differently. In Capra’s opinion, her success is not solely measured by money or job titles, but by how she serves her community. She emphasizes the importance of leading with grace and nurturing an inclusive environment.

She believes each individual is responsible for deciding what defines them, despite the rules and labels reinforced through time and societal expectations.

“When we know better, it’s our job to do better and

uncover these truths for ourselves, to unlearn some of those beliefs. There's a reason we’re all created in this life, and if we seek that purpose, it defies gender,” said Capra.

As a leader, she chooses collaboration over competition.

“For me, it comes down to basic things in life, like how can you show up in this world every day?” she said.

“For leaders, recognize that you don’t have to compete with others. You can have an even greater impact when you work together,” she said.

Some of Capra’s role models include actress and philanthropist Audrey Hepburn and local leader Cindy Pollard, a former president and CEO of the Chamber. She also worked alongside the Founder of The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement Maria Shriver. These women were collaborative and utilized their platforms to support causes important to them. The influence of their actions is evident in Capraʼs current work championing local businesses and organizations.

“Be open-minded and open-hearted to what you can learn from others,” she said.

While Capra hadnʼt anticipated her role with the Chamber, she welcomed the opportunity with open arms and a willingness to step outside of her

comfort zone. She believes that “magic happens when you allow space for new possibilities and let yourself fall into the ‛what ifs?ʼ”

Capra attributes her success to the community, her strong network and her supporters.

“Don‛t underestimate the power of community. It was the community who chose me to step into this role, and the community that embraced me,” she said.

Always seeking ways to grow, she urges other women to do the same.

“Bakersfield is full of opportunities to meet new people and get involved, including the annual Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference (BWBC), which takes place on April 30 this year,” she said. BWBC helps attendees navigate their goals by providing workshops, tools and a network to support their business endeavors. Capra has played an active role in this conference for the past 20 years.

Let us continue to push boundaries and challenge limits, drawing strength from the stories of women throughout history. Capra’s journey is an inspiration to show up, support those around us and seize new opportunities.

Empowering Progress

Women’s Leadership at the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce

The following timeline highlights key milestones in the history of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, focusing particularly on the significant contributions of women leaders. From breaking barriers to reshaping our understanding of leadership, these trailblazers played pivotal roles in shaping the Chamber and the community. As we navigate through the timeline, we celebrate their achievements and recognize the progress made in promoting gender diversity and inclusion within the Chamber's leadership ranks.

Success is not about being a mere placeholder but about actively shaping one's destiny and seizing every opportunity for progress.

- Chris Frank

In 1989, the Chamber appointed Diane Rotondo as the first woman to manage its daily operations. She joined the Chamber in 1987 and proved to the board that she was the right person for the job through her strong work ethic. However, Rotondo served for only 10 months before family circumstances required her to relocate outside of Bakersfield.

Following, Chris Frank assumed the role of executive vice president in 1991, having spent 3 months as the interim Chamber manager and three years in various roles, including administrative assistant to Rotondo.

Then, in 1992, Mary Grider, vice president of Wells Fargo Bank, became the first woman confirmed as president (equivalent to chairman of the board in 2024), she was one of the Chamber’s most active volunteers for over 13 years.

In 1996, after 5 years of Chamber growth, the Executive Board of Directors redefined their business model, appointing Frank as the first President & CEO.

Reflecting on this transition in an interview with the

Chamber, former Chamber President & CEO Frank recalled, "I think at the time, nationally, there were only about 20 women in CEO leadership roles at Chambers of Commerce."

Someone being President & CEO simply means that the buck stops with them.

“It was the first presidency job with our chamber that had complete CEO authority,” said Frank. “As a woman, I think up until the day that I retired - I never stopped trying to prove myself.”

She effectively steered and expanded the Chamber for nearly two decades, shaping it into the modern business organization we recognize today.

“Success is not about being a mere placeholder but about actively shaping one's destiny and seizing every opportunity for progress,” said Frank. Her track record demonstrated huge success and Frank attributes it to many things, succession planning being an “absolute must.”

Love this community and what it has to offer because you are selling it all the time.

- Debbie Moreno

"The community welcomed me with open arms, and I was fortunate to be surrounded by exceptional individuals—mentors, partners, and community leaders," she noted. "I regularly received invitations for lunches from community leaders who wanted to provide support in any way they could."

In Frank’s opinion, women in leadership tend to approach situations with a broader perspective, considering not only the immediate impact but also the long-term consequences.

“It's crucial to have individuals at the table who can acknowledge a good policy while also anticipating its future implications,” she said. “I find that women have a tendency to have a much more open mind to what could happen.”

For example, Frank shared that women often bring a depth of insight that encourages thorough discussion and fosters a more comprehensive understanding of issues. Their willingness to share information promotes dialogue and enhances decision-making processes.

“But I think in fairness, men today are very much the same way,” she said. “I think that it was not necessarily the case when I was coming up.”

Female business leaders tend to embody perseverance and ambition, constantly pushing boundaries and seeking growth opportunities.

Frank believes that it's essential for aspiring leaders, especially women, to recognize that success isn't just about titles or compensation - it's about relentless dedication and continuous advancement.

“To my knowledge, we didn't have that prior, and you know, that's always a challenge for leadership,” she said. “Debbie Moreno was my vice president, and we knew as I was preparing my exit that she would be perfect for the role. She was always really great at showing up for the community, especially at ribbon cuttings.”

In 1990, Moreno began her journey with the Chamber as Vice President overseeing operations. She was named President & CEO in May 2004 and dedicated a total of 22 years to serving the business community. In a 2011 interview with Bakersfield Life Magazine, she shared some advice for future Chamber leaders:

• Always be respectful of others. Even when you disagree, keep the lines of communication open.

• Love this community and what it has to offer because you are selling it all the time.

• This job is part “community leader” and part “roll up your sleeves and work.” Do both well!

Cindy Pollard succeeded Debbie Moreno in 2012, already a well-known figure in the Bakersfield business community. Prior to assuming her role, Pollard had dedicated over 25 years to the Chamber, serving as a volunteer, business member, board member, founding member of the Chamber's Political Action Committee, and community partner. Pollard spent two years at the helm before accepting an irresistible opportunity in 2014.

In 2024, Janelle Capra, the Chamber’s current leader is the fifth in the Chamber's 104-year history to officially take on the role (read more on Capra in the full feature). As we celebrate Women's History Month, it's important to recognize women's progress and contributions like the Chamber’s female trailblazers who break barriers and reshape our understanding of leadership.

CHAMBER HERSTORY:

A timeline of female leadership at the Chamber

Chris Frank, Executive Vice President of the Board

Diane Rotondo, (hired in 1987) Executive Vice President

Mary Grider, first female President of the Board of Directors

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce was founded

1920

Executive Board of Directors redefines their business model

Moved to new building

Chris Frank, named President & CEO

Cindy Pollard, President & CEO

Janelle Capra, President & CEO

Debbie Moreno, President & CEO

WOMEN BUSINESS LEADERS BUILDING A BETTER BAKERSFIELD

Women’s History Month is a time to highlight the contributions and achievements of women presently and throughout history. The Chamber recognizes the countless women who serve the community through their business and leadership.

“Behind every woman-owned business is a story of determination and hard work. Let's champion their journeys and celebrate their achievements.”

─ Janelle Capra, Chamber CEO and President

The Chamber is deeply honored and humbled by the outstanding contributions of women business leaders, both past and present, in shaping a brighter future for Bakersfield. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these remarkable women for their invaluable efforts. Recognizing their significant impact, we hope that future generations of women business leaders will find inspiration in the exemplary leadership of those who have paved the way.

Sponsored by

CYNTHIA ZIMMER

District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer is currently working tirelessly on ending Proposition 47, which reduces the penalty for certain crimes and classifies them as misdemeanors. She is urging people to sign a petition for the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act. She takes the safety of the public seriously and always keeps the public informed about legislative topics crucial to safeguarding the community. Zimmer works every day to reduce violent crime in Bakersfield and beyond.

NATESHA "T" JOHNSON

NaTesha “T” Johnson serves as the program director of Entrepreneurship & Workforce Development at Kern Community College District and holds a professorship at Cal State Bakersfield. She is the founder of Upside Productions Management, a consulting company specializing in diversity, equity and inclusion. T currently serves as the 2024 Chair of the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards and simultaneously holds the position of Vice Chair at the Bakersfield Women's Business Conference. Throughout her career, she has garnered numerous awards, including the Chamber’s Bakersfield Beautiful Award and the NAACP Woman of the Year award.

BROOKE ANTONIONI

Brooke Antonioni leads a local business where all companies and divisions are owned by women. As the president and CEO of Trans-West Security Services, the largest private physical security company in Kern County, Antonioni's commitment to the community shines through. Trans-West not only delivers quality security services but also contributes to our local economy by shopping locally and supporting numerous nonprofit organizations.

Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapist Krista Sabo is deeply engaged in the Bakersfield sports community, channeling her passion into patient care. As a highly skilled professional with dual certifications in Orthopedics and Sports from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists, she leads Sabo Physical Therapy. Their services encompass athlete risk assessment, concussion management and ACL care. The team at Sabo Physical Therapy is committed to collaborating with each patient to help them reach their goals.

KRISTA SABO

RIBBON CUTTINGS RIBBON CUTTINGS

Grand Opening Adventist Health Specialty Bakersfield 3001 Sillect Ave. bakersfieldhearthospital.com

PAST RIBBON CUTTINGS

Grand Opening Girl Scouts Innovation Center 2160 Mars Ct. girlscoutsccs.org

UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTING

Grand Opening Providence Strategic Consulting, Inc. (West) 3559 Allen Rd. provconsult.com

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

Grand Opening Gold Standard Mortgage 1100 Mohawk Suite 170 goldstandardmortgage.com

RSVP

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Member News

Open Classrooms at Bakersfield College

Discover the talent you’ve been seeking through our pre-qualified apprentices from Bakersfield College. Up to 25% of funding is available to offset salary costs and apprentice training is free. Whether you need one apprentice or an entire team, we’ve got you covered. Learn more.

Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation

We've extended the deadline of the Y2LEF Scholarship Program Application. The new deadline is April 2nd, 2024 at 5:00pm. You can access the application here Y2L is also hosting financial aid workshops also known as Cash 4 College Workshops up until early April. Check us out on social media @youth2leaders for updates on the exact locations and times for each session.

The Open Door Network

Join us at Reimagine 2024, shaping Kern County's future. Sponsorship fuels transformative change: 2M pounds of trash cleared, 6,050 sheltered, 2 new facilities, 3,800 employed, and 1.8M meals served. Your support breaks cycles of poverty, abuse, and homelessness. Learn more here and secure your spot today.

Global Family & The Daughter Project

Join Global Family & the Daughter Project on April 6, 2024, at the Wonderful Aviation Hangar at Meadow's Field for an unforgettable evening celebrating the best of our community. This is one of Bakersfield's premier events to combat child trafficking and uplift vulnerable communities locally and abroad. Experience gourmet cuisine, live entertainment, and one-of-a-kind auctions! Register now

Dress for Success

is having their Wednesday Sale and wants you to come shop! This nonprofit empowers women by providing professional work attire and career services. All proceeds from this sale go to support the economic independence of women in Kern County. Every Wednesday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. located at 1416 17th St.

Kern

County Library and Kern Literacy Council

We are partnering together to bring The Tutoring Network, a free tutoring service for adults, teens, and children. Tutoring assistance will be available both on-site at all Kern County Library locations and online. Book your FREE tutoring appointment today.

Upcoming Events

April 2024

Tuesday, April 2

Government Review Council Meeting

Noon | Chamber

Tuesday, April 9

Ribbon Cutting

11 a.m. | Providence Strategic Consulting

West

Wednesday, April 10

Coffee with the Chamber

8:30 a.m. | Chamber

Thursday, April 11

Borax Tour

9 a.m. | Borax Visitor Center

Friday, April 19

Government Review Council Meeting

8 a.m. | Chamber

Tuesday, April 23

Ambassador Meeting

Noon | Memorial Hospital- Founder's Hall

Tuesday, April 30

Women's Business Conference

7:30 a.m. | Mechanics Bank Arena

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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.

Baja Fresh

661-665-2258

bajafresh.com

“Our passion is to provide every guest with the freshest, best tasting Mexican food in Bakersfield, prepared for every guest fresh upon order.”

Coast Design Center & Build Inc. DBA Mila 4300 Stine Rd. #100

Bakersfield, CA 93313

661-271-3500

milakitchenandbath.com

“Mila showroom offers a wide range of selections from porcelain tiles, ceramic tile, mosaics, custom cabinetry, vanities, LED mirrors, tubs, toilets, and shower fixtures.”

Edible Arrangements

661-588-3999

ediblearrangements.com

“Edible Arrangements is a specialty gifting business offering artistic fruit arrangements and decadent gourmet chocolate-dipped fruit. Perfect for every occasion with available same-day delivery.”

Openclassrooms Inc.

251 Park Avenue South 8th Floor, New York, NY 10010

562-852-1041

openclassrooms.com

“OpenClassrooms ensures education accessibility, aiding individuals worldwide in skill development and career advancement. We offer apprenticeships in digital marketing, application development, data analytics, and help-desk-technician.”

Pacific Steel Group

4805 Murphy Canyon Rd. San Diego, CA 92123

858-251-1100

pacificsteelgroup.com

“Pacific Steel Group is a leading independent reinforcing steel fabricator and placer with offices throughout the Western United States.”

Sabo Physical Therapy, Inc.

11006 Brimhall Rd. Ste A Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-706-0180

sabopt.com

“Providing physical therapy services in Bakersfield to athletes and active adults. Specializing in orthopedics and sports rehabilitation, with emphasis on returning athletes of any age to their sport. Our physical therapists have doctorate degrees and Board Certification in Orthopedic and Sports physical therapy.”

Vanguard Medical Corporation

565 Kern Street Bakersfield, CA 93312 661-746-4937

vanguardmedcorp.com

“Health Care Organization with 4 locations in Kern County - Shafter, Wasco, Bakersfield and Arvin.”

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.

AltaOne Federal Credit Union - Riverwalk Office - 2012

Andrea R Hill, CPA, AAC - 2017

Anita M. Waits, Accountancy Corporation - 1995

ASU Commercial - 1987

Bakersfield Art Association - 2013

Bakersfield Association of REALTORS - 1955

Bank of the Sierra - California Ave. - 2017

Bio life Plasma Services - 2022

BSK & Associates - 1972

Colliers International - 2011

Continental Labor and Staffing Resources - 1997

Empire Aesthetic Center - 2023

Empire Eye and Laser Center - 2017

Good Samaritan Hospital - 2011

Greenlawn Southwest - 2011

Guild House - 1993

Henrietta Weill Memorial Child Guidance Clinic - 1981 Hey Salty, Inc. - 2020

Kern County Family Magazine - 1996

KMI Mechanical, Inc. - 1991

Law Office of Kyle W. Jones - 2013

Law Offices of Robert H. Brumfield, PC - 2010

M & S Security Services, Inc. - 2011

Merrill Lynch - Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. - 1978

Metropolitan Recycling LLC - 2011

Minuteman Press - 1991

MP Environmental Services, Inc. - 1993

MTS Solutions - 1998

Murray Family Farms, Inc. - 2004

North of the River Recreation & Park District - 2013

Nothing Bundt Cakes - 2015

Platt Electric Supply - 2016

Quality Floor Covering - 2023

Rainbow Int. Restoration of Bakersfield - 2018

San Joaquin Valley College - 1984

Staples Energy Services - 2019

Stinson's - 1953

The Daily Report - 1995

The Marcom Group Incorporated - 1999

The Sequoia Sandwich Company - Downtown - 2000

Tlo Wines - 2023

United Way of Kern County - 1993

Vantage Property Management - 2010

Wallace & Smith Contractors, Inc. - 1963

Watson Realty ERA - Mike Saba - 2002

Willis and Williams Design Studios - 2012

Wonderful Orchards - 1994

WZI Inc - 1990

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS

2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman of the Board

Rob Duchow

Public Affairs Manager - Southern California Gas Company

Incoming Chairman

Deanna Blaise

Valley Strong Credit Union

Immediate Past Chair

Ken Keller

Dignity Health – Bakersfield Memorial Hospital

Patrick Beck – Bakersfield Hyundai

Mark Bateman – Young Wooldridge, LLP

Molly Busacca – Secure Systems

Bruce Davis – Bolthouse Properties

Emily Duran – Kern Health Systems

Octavio Escobedo – Tejon Indian Tribe

Melissa Frank – The Wonderful Company

Kamal Gill – Brimhall Pharmacy/Panama Pharmacy

Dr. Vernon Harper – CSU Bakersfield

DeAnna Lewis – Wingstop

Maybelle Liquigan – Kaiser Permanente

Jacob Panero – Varner Bros. Inc.

Mari Perez-Dowling – United Way of Kern

Veronika Placencia – KERO-TV 23

G Riar – Riar Inc./The UPS Store

Greg Race – PG&E

Willie Rivera – Aera Energy

CHAMBER STAFF

Janelle Capra

President & CEO

Kami Gonzalez

Administration & Operations Director

Savanah Adams

Stakeholder Engagement Manager

Kimberly Price

Community Events Manager

Get Social

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

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MAJOR INVESTORS

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS