INSIDE on the

MESSAGE FROM THE

Nick Ortiz As a native of Bakersfield and Kern County I’ve seen my fair share of business cycles. Droughts, low oil prices and national recessions have hit our community hard before. Though this current economic disruption is unprecedented, our community’s response is very familiar. When the storm clouds gather, we rally to support our neighbors and protect our community. That ethos runs the gamut from bolstering our safety net providers with resources and donations to patronizing our local small businesses in their time of need. We still have a long way to go before we’ll be able to accurately assess the economic and human damage of the coronavirus pandemic. What can be definitively said is that Bakersfield and Kern County businesses met this challenge with ingenuity, creativity and resiliency. Our team at the Chamber has witnessed firsthand how our members have confronted this new normal; we have been impressed and inspired, but most importantly, honored to serve you. Just as our members have had to modify their business tactics and strategies, so have we. Over the course of the last eight weeks, we’ve reoriented our staff and programs to serve as business first responders – providing needed

information and resources to local businesses. We’ve hosted webinars on employment and labor law issues, how to access federal stimulus programs and how to market your business and network during “quarantine.” We pride ourselves on being your steadfast advocates with local, state and federal government. Our advocacy efforts have been supercharged over the last eight weeks. We’re also reevaluating all of our programs and events – when they occur and how they are presented. Look for more information from us as the public health environment becomes clearer. We’re committed to honoring the 100-year legacy of the Chamber by supporting our members, creating the best local environment for business in California and advocating for the tools you need to reopen. We’re also looking forward to the day when we can host in-person meetings, celebrations and policy briefings; until that time we’ll continue to connect with you in the “virtual space.” Finally, we are very interested in your feedback on how we can reopen Kern County’s economy swiftly but safely - reach out to us with any thoughts through covid@bakochamber. com. Stay safe, sane and kind.

Nick Ortiz

President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber