December 2024 Metro

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Highgate at Seven Oaks is a prestigious master planned residential community in the very best Castle & Cooke tradition. Majestic, gated entries with lush landscaping lead to multiple lifestyle-oriented neighborhoods. Residents connect with one another through unique resort-style amenities for year-round family-friendly recreation, adventure, and outdoor activity.

INSIDE

Get a first-hand recap from the Mission at Kern

the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2024

Enjoy a recap of our inaugural

Learn about the relaunch of the Bakersfield Young Professionals

Read about our Small Business Saturday Event  and our partnership with AMEX

relive the

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.

© Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

A Season of Celebration, Gratitude, and Opportunity

As we bid farewell to another incredible year, it's heartwarming to reflect on the achievements, connections, and moments that brought us together as a community. The Chamber is abuzz with energy during this season, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together.

Last month, we held our inaugural Friendsgiving Ambassador Meeting, celebrating the amazing volunteers and leaders who make our Chamber family thrive. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our 2024 Ambassador Chair, Terri Agcaoili, for her dedication and leadership in such an impactful program. To our ambassadors, members, and the Greater Bakersfield community—your ongoing support and collaboration truly inspire us.

We proudly embraced our role as AMEX Neighborhood Champions®, partnering with American Express to celebrate Small Business Saturday. This collaboration highlights our commitment to supporting the small businesses that are the heart of Bakersfield. Remember, when you #ShopSmall, you’re making a significant impact, as $0.68 of every dollar stays right here in our community.

We kicked off December in style with our annual Holiday Mixer—an event filled with festive cheer, meaningful connections, and a sprinkle of holiday magic. The room was alive with the spirit of the season, and I want to thank each of you for making it a night to remember.

This season, we also proudly support Encore Boutique—the Mission at Kern County's upscale resale shop. I was honored to be featured as Encore’s Community Highlight for December! Stop by the Greater Bakersfield Chamber office at 1725 Eye Street during regular business hours to pick up your 50% off entire purchase coupons! Then, take a

short walk to Encore Boutique to shop for high-end fashion, accessories, and more for men, women, and children.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are gearing up for an exciting start. Our Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, Jan. 22 promises to celebrate leadership and excellence. Additionally, we will welcome the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2025 and continue building momentum with the revitalized Bakersfield Young Professionals group, which will partner with the Kern Community Foundation for their inaugural Volunteer Big Kern event on Friday, Jan. 10.

Please note that in observance of the holiday season, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber offices will be closed from Friday, Dec. 20, at noon until Monday, Jan. 6. Thank you for a remarkable year from all of us at the Chamber. Let’s carry this spirit of gratitude and grace into the holiday season and beyond. Together, we will make 2025 our best year yet.

Happy Holidays, Janelle

WELCOME TO THE TEAM

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber welcomes Joel Paramo as the new Senior Director of Strategic Communications. Joel brings over a decade of experience in journalism, public relations, and marketing, focusing on impactful storytelling and community connections. A graduate of Leadership Bakersfield’s 2023 Cohort and recognized in 2024 as one of Bakersfield Life’s 20 Under 40, he is committed to fostering growth in Kern County.

Before returning to Bakersfield in 2020, Joel worked at Porter Novelli on high-impact campaigns for national brands. As former Director of Hey Salty, a communications consultancy, he provided strategic guidance and led campaigns and initiatives to enhance brand visibility across various business sectors, promote job growth, and support the U.S.

middle class.

In addition to his professional roles, Joel serves as President of the Public Relations Society of America-Central California Chapter. He is a professional advisor for the PRSSA chapter at CSU, Bakersfield, and he is launching the Chamber’s first marketing & communications internship program with CSUB’s Career Education & Community Engagement center, emphasizing his dedication to developing future communicators.

He is also currently relaunching the Bakersfield Young Professionals, aimed at empowering local leaders through networking and professional development. Joel’s community involvement also includes partnerships with many local business and nonprofit organizations, reflecting his belief in communication's transformative power.

We are excited to have Joel Paramo join the Greater Bakersfield Chamber network, where his expertise and passion will significantly advance our shared vision for Kern County's future.

The Mission at Kern County Wins Renovation & Tenant Improvement Award

The Mission at Kern County is grateful and honored to have been chosen as the recipient of the Beautiful Bakersfield Award for Renovation and Tenant Improvement, reflecting our dedication to serving those in need.

Since 1952, we have provided safe shelter and wrap-around services to Kern County’s most vulnerable population. Our Homeless Intervention Services (H.I.S.) building has been part of the Mission since the 1990s. As our community needs began to grow, we recognized the importance of expanding services and increasing our capacity.

In collaboration with Rymac General Contractors, the City of Bakersfield, and Pyramid Construction, we transformed the existing space to host health clinics, job training workshops, and mental health services. It also serves as a cooling center, Day Center for our guests, and additional overnight sleeping space. We have installed a metal detector and surveillance systems, along with trained personnel, to create a secure atmosphere for both guests and employees, allowing everyone to feel safe while accessing vital resources.

By fostering a welcoming and secure environment, we help build social connections while addressing the critical needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. Each night, we provide shelter for an average of 251 individuals, totaling 91,615 bed

nights a year. We are proud to have placed 200 individuals in permanent supportive housing in 2024.

The Mission at Kern County is committed to continuous improvement, firmly believing that every individual has inherent dignity. We express our gratitude to our community partners, board, and staff for supporting us as we tackle the challenges of homelessness together.

Graduation Celebration

A Huge Congratulations to the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2024!

The Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2024 has officially graduated, marking the culmination of a transformative journey for 30 exceptional individuals committed to shaping a brighter future for Kern County. The ceremony, held on Thursday, Nov. 7, at the Stockdale Country Club, was a night to remember—filled with inspiration, celebration, and a deep sense of community.

The evening began with an invocation by David Silva, setting a reflective and hopeful tone for the event. The program then welcomed Class Speaker Marcus Duarte Smith, whose heartfelt address captured the shared growth and camaraderie of the cohort.

Keynote speeches by Bakersfield City Manager Christian Clegg and Mayor Karen Goh offered graduates invaluable insights on the importance of servant leadership and the impact of collaboration in building a thriving community. Mayor Goh reminded attendees, "Leadership is not about a title; it’s about the responsibility to inspire and empower others."

Now equipped with enhanced leadership skills and a deeper understanding of the community’s needs, the graduates are poised to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.

As these emerging leaders prepare to take on new roles and challenges, they are encouraged to

remember the valuable bonds they have formed, the lessons learned, and the significant impact they can make within the community.

Community members eagerly anticipate the contributions these leaders will bring as they strive to create a more united and vibrant Bakersfield. Congratulations are in order for the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2024, as they embody the qualities necessary to lead the community forward.

Special Acknowledgments:

The success of this year's program was possible due to the guidance and dedication of Zane Smith, Chair of the Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Council, who demonstrated unwavering leadership throughout the program.

Chevron, the program’s underwriter, was pivotal in supporting this initiative. Megan Lopez’s inspiring remarks at the ceremony reinforced the importance of investing in local leaders to drive positive change. Dignity Health Bakersfield contributed to this transformative journey, helping participants connect with the heart of the community. Golden Empire Transit (GET) was also a sponsor this year and provided transportation for the class participants.

Program Underwriter:

Class of 2024

Marilu
Zechariah

Celebrating Community at the Inaugural Friendsgiving Luncheon

As the holiday season approached, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber celebrated with a heartfelt inaugural Friendsgiving Ambassador Luncheon. Held just before Thanksgiving, this gathering honored the Chamber's dedicated volunteers, the passionate Ambassadors who make everything possible.

NV Catering provided a delicious feast that would have delighted even the earliest Thanksgiving settlers, creating a meal that fostered gratitude and camaraderie among attendees.

We extend a special thank you to Terri Agcaoili, the 2024 Ambassador Chair, whose leadership and enthusiasm have been invaluable. We also want to recognize Kim Price, our Community Events Manager, for her relentless support of the Ambassadors' success. Although Blade Griffin, the 2025 Chair, was unable to attend the event,

the group looks forward to his leadership in the upcoming year.

The luncheon was a celebration of connection, commitment, and the accomplishments of the Ambassador Committee. The overwhelming gratitude and shared success stories highlighted the family-like atmosphere that defines the Chamber.

During the event, newly minted Ambassador Pins were distributed, and an exciting end-of-year drawing took place to waive 2025 membership dues, making for a perfect blend of reflection and anticipation for what lies ahead.

To our Ambassadors, Chamber members, and the Bakersfield community, thank you for being the heart of everything we do. Interested in becoming an Ambassador? Contact Kim Price at kprice@ bakochamber.com to learn how you can make a difference in 2025.

The Relaunch of Bakersfield Young Professionals A New Era for Emerging Leaders

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber announced the relaunch of the Bakersfield Young Professionals (BYP) program, a dynamic initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders and innovators in Bakersfield. With a newly appointed council, updated bylaws, and an ambitious program plan, BYP is poised to create lasting impact and elevate young professionals as influential voices in the community.

Leading the charge is Joel Paramo, Senior Director of Strategic Communications for the Chamber and BYP Chairman. Under his leadership, BYP aims to harness its members' diversity, creativity, and drive to push the program to unprecedented heights.

“BYP will lead with service, mentorship, and socialization,” said Paramo. “We’re committed to creating a space where Bakersfield’s young professionals can connect, grow, and leave their mark on the city’s future.”

The program aims to foster a vibrant, thriving community that drives Bakersfield’s economic, governmental, and neighborhood growth. The mission? To support young professionals in their journey to become tomorrow’s business, civic, and community leaders.

This relaunch represents a fresh start for BYP, maintaining its core values while adding energy and innovation to the mix. At its heart, the program focuses on three key areas:

• Leadership Development

• Professional Networking

• Personal and Professional Growth

The BYP Crews: Driving Change Together

To maximize impact, BYP introduces three specialized Crews that align with members’ passions and goals:

1. Service Crew: Focused on community outreach, volunteerism, and civic engagement.

2. Shape Crew: Dedicated to personal and professional growth through workshops, speaker events, and mentorship opportunities.

3. Socialize Crew: Curates social and professional networking events to connect members with peers and the wider business community.

These Crews provide targeted opportunities for collaboration, leadership, and making a difference in Bakersfield.

2025

“We aim to empower young professionals to lead and thrive,” explained Paramo. “Through mentorship, training, and collaboration, we’re creating a pipeline of leaders ready to shape Bakersfield’s future.”

Goals:

A Roadmap to Success

The relaunch is driven by a clear set of objectives for 2025:

• Leadership Development: Establish leadership roles within BYP and launch mentorship programs pairing young professionals with experienced leaders.

• Building Strong Networks: Host networking events, industry panels, and digital platforms to foster connections.

• Promoting Growth: Provide workshops and speaker series on entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation.

Join the Movement

Are you a motivated professional aged 21–40, eager to make meaningful connections, grow your career, and impact your community? Now is the time to join BYP! Membership benefits include:

• Access to mentorship from seasoned professionals.

• Exclusive networking and professional development events.

• Opportunities to give back through service projects.

• Chamber member benefits and more.

With annual dues of just $50 and flexible financial assistance available, BYP ensures accessibility for all young professionals in Kern County.

Sign up today and take your place among Bakersfield’s next generation of leaders! Visit bakochamber.com/byp/ to learn more and sign up.

Greater Bakersfield Chamber, City of Bakersfield & MCSC KWBC become Neighborhood Champions® in partnership with AMEX

City Leaders and local Businesses align with the national Small Business Saturday campaign, introduce the Chamber Perk

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber announced its new affiliation as an American Express Neighborhood Champion® for Small Business Saturday. The initiative, which encourages residents to shop small during the holiday season and beyond, emphasizes the critical economic and social benefits of supporting local businesses. As the Chamber evolves to meet the needs of its business members, the new partnership will replace its successful "Shop Local, Shop Now" initiative, launched in 2021 to support Chamber member-owned brick-and-mortar businesses during the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking at a press conference held at Belcourt Village shopping center, local leaders, business owners and community partners gathered to highlight the campaign’s goals and the importance of small businesses to Bakersfield’s economy. With support from the City of Bakersfield and MCSC Kern Women’s Business Center, the Chamber is amplifying its efforts to advocate for small businesses as Neighborhood Champions® and the upcoming Chamber Perk initiative, set to launch in 2025.

Key Data on Shopping Local:

• Shop Small, Impact Big: For every $1 spent locally, $0.68 remains in the community, supporting jobs, local initiatives, and economic growth.

• Support Your Neighbors: Small businesses

donate 250% more to local charities than large corporations.

• Every Purchase Matters: Shopping locally fuels job creation, economic growth, and a sense of community.

Community Voices:

Janelle Capra, President & CEO, Greater Bakersfield Chamber: "We are excited to transition from our Shop Local, Shop Now campaign to the national AMEX Neighborhood Champion campaign. This transition will highlight the lasting impact of small businesses on our community and leverage the national campaign locally. Every dollar spent locally contributes to job creation, fosters growth and strengthens the fabric of our neighborhoods."

Karen Goh, Mayor of Bakersfield:

“Shopping locally is essential to the growth and prosperity of our city. Small businesses are the backbone of Bakersfield. By supporting them, we’re supporting job creation, a robust local economy and our community’s unique character.”

Jeff Eittreim, Vice President, Bolthouse Properties:

“When we shop small, we invest directly in the vitality of our local economy. At Belcourt Village, we’re fostering a space where local businesses can thrive and our community can come together.”

Norma Dunn, Program Director, MCSC Kern Women’s Business Center:

“At the Kern Women’s Business Center, we empower women entrepreneurs by providing the training, mentorship and resources they need to succeed. Shopping small supports the future of our community’s entrepreneurs, particularly women.”

The Chamber Perk:

While the SLSN campaign concludes in 2024, its momentum will continue with the launch of The Chamber Perk in 2025. This year-round initiative will spotlight local businesses, share their unique stories and foster lasting connections between small business owners and the Bakersfield community.

Get Involved:

• Residents can support the campaign by:

• Shopping small for holiday gifts and everyday needs.

• Sharing experiences on social media using #ShopSmallBakersfield, #ShopSmall and #SmallBizSat.

• Participating in local events, pop-up markets and Small Business Saturday activities.

For more information, visit bakochamber.com or follow the Chamber on social media (@bakochamber). Business owners interested in participating in The Chamber Perk can contact the Chamber at info@bakochamber.com.

Holiday Mixer 2024 Festive Cheer and Community Connections

We officially kicked off the holiday season in style at the Greater Bakersfield Chamber’s Annual Holiday Mixer, hosted on Wednesday, December 3 at the stunning Lino's Venue. It was an evening filled with festive cheer, meaningful connections, and a touch of holiday magic that left everyone in the spirit of the season!

Guests mingled and celebrated the most wonderful time of the year, enjoying lively conversations, delectable treats, and the warmth of Bakersfield’s incredible community. The ambiance sparkled with joy and camaraderie, proving once again that the holiday season is best shared together.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, creating unforgettable memories and spreading holiday joy. We’re already counting down the days until next year’s festivities!

This magical night wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors:

Gold Sponsors: Valley Strong Credit Union | Barton Marketing Group | Central Valley Commercial

Brokers

Silver Sponsors: Motor City Lexus | OpenClassrooms

Bronze Sponsor: Rewind 98.1

UPCOMING EVENTS

January 2024

Wednesday, Jan. 1-3

New Years

Closed in Observance of the New Year’s Holiday

Thursday, Jan. 9

Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2025 Kick-Off

11 a.m. | The Padre Hotel

Friday, Jan. 10

Bakersfield Young Professionals Volunteer Big Kern

8 a.m. - 2 p.m. | TBD

Friday, Jan. 17

Government Review Council

8 a.m. | Chamber

Monday, Jan. 20

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Closed in Observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Wednesday, Jan. 22

Annual Board Installation and Luncheon 11:30 a.m. | Seven Oaks Country Club

Friday, Jan. 24

Bakersfield Young Professionals Meeting

8 a.m. | Chamber

Tuesday, Jan. 28

Ambassador Luncheon

11:30 a.m. | Chamber

Wednesday, Jan. 29

New Year Labor Law & HR Update Forum

8 a.m. | Chamber

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to the companies that have joined the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Thank you for investing in our mission to Build a Better Bakersfield.

Airwave Communication

4425 E Brundage Ln. Suite 300

Bakersfield, CA 93307

661-808-7101

airwavecommunication.com

“We are a leading provider of communication solutions, public safety vehicle upfitting, and wireless infrastructure.”

Bako Balloons & Backdrops

6204 Catarata St.

Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-321-6666

bakoballoonsbackdrop.com

“Bako Balloons & Backdrops designs custom balloon art and backdrops for all occasions, transforming events into unforgettable experiences with creativity and local charm.”

CFS (Creative Financial Staffing)

9201 Camino Media Suite 115

Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-829-4150

cfstaffing.com

“Creative Financial Staffing (CFS) is a leading, employeeowned staffing firm—the largest one founded by CPA firms. CFS helps companies locate, attract and hire exceptional accounting.”

Childrens Choice Dental Care

7950 White Lane Unit C & D

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-443-5243

mychildrenschoice.com

“At Children’s Choice, we are dedicated to providing children access to the healthcare they need for excellent health and big smiles. Our award-winning teams provide engaging and educational experiences in our fun childcentric offices.”

Home Smiles Bakersfield

2700 San Emidio St.

Bakersfield, CA 93304

661-444-8314

bakersfield.homesmiles.com

“Home Smiles Bakersfield is the leader in preventative home maintenance services. We offer an aggregated solution to all your preventative home needs. Our core services include solar panel cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, window washing, pressure washing, and rain gutter cleaning. Whether you have interior, exterior or whole home needs, we have you covered! Call us today for a free estimate..”

Homewatch Caregivers

930 Truxtun Ave. Suite 102

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-310-2305

homewatchcaregivers.com/bakersfield

“We are a leading provider of communication solutions, public safety vehicle upfitting, and wireless infrastructure.”

KEEWest Associates

PO Box 20874

Bakersfield, CA 93390

661-486-5256

keewestassociates.com

“KEEWest Associates, a boutique public relations agency, brings decades of communications and marketing experience to the table for businesses, community clinics, energy companies, hospitals, startups.”

Laszlo Consulting Group, LLC

PO Box 21151

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-200-9237

laszloconsulting.com

“We provide comprehensive accounting services, including accounts payable/receivable, month-end close, general ledger reconciliation, financial statement preparation, budgeting and forecasting, cash flow forecasting, and business processes.”

Law Offices of Donald Colvin, APC

4550 California Ave. Suite 600

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-616-1177 colvinaccidentlawyers.com

“Personal injury firm handling car accidents, hit and runs, premises liabilities, wrongful deaths, dog bites, worker's comp in the Central Valley.”

Leadership Consultants, LLC

11316 Champions Ave.

Bakersfield, CA 93312

831-234-8720

“I offer Business coaching, speaking, training, and offer assessment behavior tools.”

LEG Travel

13804 Las Entradas

Bakersfield, CA 93314

661-301-9936

legtravels.com

“Celebrating 10 years in 2025, a full-service agency, crafting unforgettable European adventures, river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive getaways, and custom trips for solo and groups.”

Purveyor Branding Co.

PO Box 1271

Bakersfield, Ca 93302

661-237-5061

purveyorbranding.com

“Purveyor Branding creates irresistible brands through strategy, messaging, and design, helping businesses grow, attract talent, and connect with audiences on a deeper level since 2017.”

Real Care LLC

818 Real Rd.

Bakersfield, CA 93309

866-517-7010

realcareliving.com

“Real Care Assisted Living is an affordable option to many of our potential residents and families in Bakersfield. Our dedicated team is heart focused and committed to delivering outstanding care, amenities designed to foster engagement, diverse experiences, and build a safe and vibrant community.”

Rio Bravo, LLP

7700 Irvine Center Dr. Irvine, CA 92618

949-342-7340

“We are a residential builder who builds single-family detached tract homes. We have over 20+ years of experience in bringing dream homes to reality.”

Tobbins, Inc.

3001 Panama Ln.

Bakersfield, CA 93313

661-515-0195

tobbins.com

“Tobbins is a local convenience store with Shell fuel and is home to the first Gong Cha, the world's best bubble tea!.”

Sequoia’s Placement For Mom

12319 Jacksonville Ave.

Bakersfield CA 93312

661-335-1255

SequoiasPlacementForMom.com

“SPFM strives to help and support families find and seek the best living facility for their loved ones.”

Steve Holloway Painting

2419 L Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-325-8520

stevehollowaypainters.com

“Since 1982, we have been the premier commercial and residential painting contractor. Steve Holloway Painting excels in customer service.”

MEMBER NEWS

AltaOne Federal Credit Union: Through the AltaOne Foundation, our 501(c)(3) organization, we have just launched the following programs:

AltaOne Federal Credit Union is excited to announce the AltaOne Foundation’s 2025 Digital Scholarship Program and Reach New Heights Grant Program, two impactful initiatives aimed at supporting the educational aspirations of local students and the vital work of nonprofit organizations in our communities.

2025 Digital Scholarship for high school students, graduating high school seniors, and current college students. The neat thing about this is there is no essay required— just a few social media reels that are financial literacy based mentioning AltaOne.

More info here: https://altaone.org/scholarship

2024 Reach New Heights Grant Program for emerging, and up-and-coming 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. More info here: https://altaone.org/grant

For more information on the AltaOne Foundation visit: https://altaone.org/foundation.

California State University, Bakersfield: Get four hospitality passes & tickets to a CSUB men's basketball game on us!

Community Engagement is one of our four pillars for the Roadrunner Club and CSUB Athletics. As members of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber and valued representatives of our city, we would like to invite you and your business to attend an elevated game day experience on us! You can attend our new and improved Basketball Hospitality experience, which opens one hour before tip-off in the Icardo Room. You and your guests can enjoy complimentary alcohol (beer, wine, and seltzers), food, and nonalcoholic beverages! One of our basketball coaches will do a chalk talk to give you the inside scoop on CSUB's strategy. We will also provide complimentary game tickets so you can cheer on the `Runners!

Choose one of the following games:

• Dec. 21 vs Portland St.

• Jan. 2 vs UC Davis

• Jan. 4 vs Long Beach

All games start at 5:30 p.m., and doors open at 5:30 p.m. Visit gorunners.com/chamber to claim your spot today! If you have any questions, please contact our Annual Fund Coordinator, Gage Fiorentino, at (860) 707-0359 or gfiorentino@csub.edu.

Grand

13061 Rosedale Hwy, Suite H, Bakersfield, CA 93314 grazecraze.com

H. St., Suite 110, Bakersfield, CA 93301 cellancentralvc.com Grand

3001 Panama Lane, Bakersfield, CA 93313 tobbins.com Grand

UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS

Rd., #115 & #117, Bakersfield, CA 93309 Thursday, Feb. 6

RENEWING MEMBERS

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

Action Sports - 2013

Agape In Home Care, Inc. - 2000

Anita M. Waits, Accountancy Corporation - 1995

Anthony Vineyards, Inc. - 1994

Around the Clock Care - 2001

Atlas Financial Solutions, Inc. - 2022

B&B Surplus, Inc. - 1993

Bakersfield Cotton Warehouse, LLC - 2022

Bakersfield Country Club - 1991

BCT Consulting, Inc. - 2021

Bio life Plasma Services - 2022

Blue Sky Sales, Inc. dba

Famoso Nut Company Sales - 1996

Braun Gosling, A Law Corporation - 2010

Bristol Hospice Bakersfield - 1998

California Living Museum Foundation - 2000

Car Seat Concierge - 2023

Central Valley Commercial Brokers, Inc. - 2021

Central/Mother Lode Regional Consortium - 2017

CityServe Network - 2019

Clifford & Brown, P.C. - 1990

Coffee-Brimhall LLC - 2008

Communication Enterprises Inc. - 1990

Countryside Corp - 2017

Culligan Water - 2017

Denison Werner, LLP - 2012

Diamond Ridge Roofing, Inc. - 1994

Dirty Bird Guns and Ammo - 2021

Dmohowski Consulting Services - 2015

Dress For Success - Bakersfield - 2013

Drybar Bakersfield - 2023

Dunkin' Bakersfield - 2023

Easeworks - 2023

Emporium Western Store - 1987

Everlight Care - 2021

First Solutions Insurance Services - 1999

Flame & Fire Brazilian Steakhouse - 2021

Freestyle Event Services - 2012

Hourglass Hotel - Ascend Collection - 2010

Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant - 2009

Inland Architects - 2022

JSS Almonds - 2015

Keathley, Maxwell & Antongiovanni, LLP - 1990

Kern Community Foundation - 1999

Kern Council of Governments - 1990

Kern Literacy Council - 2012

Kern Oil & Refining Co. - 2019

Kern Psychiatric Health and Wellness, Inc. - 2011

KHSD - Regional Occupational Center - 2014

KHSD - Regional Occupational Center - 2019

Let Laura Jean LLC - 2023

Mentor's Moving & Storage - 2023

Nadrich & Cohen Accident Injury Lawyers - 2022

Nickel Family LLC - 1994

Onyx Aesthetics and Wellness - 2019

Open & Shut Enterprises - 2000

Pacific Advisors - 2004

Parsons - 1991

Pathpoint - 2007

Paul Pilger - 2019

Payment Systems Worldwide - 1999

Providence Strategic Consulting, Inc. - 2004

Rain for Rent - 1992

Saba Agency - 1990

Seven Oaks Country Club - 1991

Skarphol Frank Associates - 1995

Skyline Cabinet & Millworks - 1998

Spectrum Reach - 1966

Stockdale Podiatry Group - 1998

Telehealthdocs Medical Group - 2016

The Marcom Group Incorporated - 1999

The Mission at Kern County - 1989

The Ryan Dobbs Real Estate Team - 2022

Tri Counties Bank - 2004

Uniglobe Golden Empire Travel

DBA Uniglobe Tvl Partners - 1987

Urner's - 2018

Vantage Property Management - 2010

Vital Signs of Bakersfield - 1991

Water Associates - 2022

Wm. Bolthouse Farms, Inc. - 1995

Woodbridge Pacific Group - 2017

WZI Inc - 1990

Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation - 2018

Vital Signs of Bakersfield - 2023

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

Veronica Placencia – KERO-TV 23

G Riar – Riar Inc./The UPS Store

Greg Race – PG&E

Willie Rivera – Berry Corporation

CHAMBER STAFF

Janelle Capra

President & CEO

Kami Gonzalez

Vice President, Members & Programs

Joel Paramo

Senior Director of Strategic Communications

Savanah Adams

Senior Manager, Policy & Public Affairs

Lorrie Guinn-Magers

Director of Operations & HR

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.

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS

Tejon Ranch Company, established in 1843, is California’s largest contiguous piece of private property. A fully diversified real estate and agribusiness company, its holdings include the Tejon Ranch Commerce Center, The Outlets at Tejon, and multiple master-planned communities. The company also generates revenue through oil, gas, and mineral resources, outdoor experiences, and filming opportunities.

Committed to environmental stewardship, Tejon Ranch has conserved most of its 420 square miles and incorporates sustainable practices like solar energy and reclaimed water use.

Learn more at tejonranch.com.

MAJOR INVESTORS

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS

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