Metro September 2023

Ready to Change Your

Highgate is Ready to Help.

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 On 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 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.

Message from the CEO

September Signals the Start of an Eventful Fall

As the summer sun begins to set on another vibrant season, our team is excited and ready for a fun-filled fall.

The opportunities to support our fellow Chamber member businesses and engage in enriching experiences here in Bakersfield continue to flourish. Our recently launched “Shop Local, Shop Now" (SLSN) End-ofSummer Campaign resonates deeply with our shared commitment to fostering a thriving local economy while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. Check out the cover story on Collective Gyms, a new, locally owned haven for fitness enthusiasts.

Last month, we celebrated the conclusion of summer with an after-hours mixer hosted by Jim Burke Ford at their downtown dealership. We had a great turnout reflecting the strength of our Chamber network. If you missed out, be sure to attend this month’s mixer being held by Gameday Sports Academy on Thursday, Sept. 28 at the Dignity Health Sports Complex. This mixer will feature a taco bar, mocktails and live music.

Looking ahead, we also have a Labor Law & HR Forum on Leaves of Absences in partnership with The Law Offices of Young Wooldridge from 8-10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 27. Leaves of Absence can be a complex and often litigated aspect of Employment Law. To provide clarity and guidance, Attorney Jerry Pearson will lead us through the intricate maze of this subject. This promises to be an insightful session and an invaluable resource for our small businesses. Many have already registered and there are only several spots remaining, so be sure to call and reserve your seat today!

I want to express my gratitude to all who participated in our Leadership Bakersfield application process for the class of 2024. We received a record number of applicants and we’re looking forward to another thriving class of leaders! Applications have closed and we’ll be conducting interviews over the next month. Lastly, the CalChamber convened a coalition of Big City Chambers to meet regularly to foster meaningful conversations on issues impacting cities throughout the state. We recognize the need for these dialogues and look forward to creating solutions together. To learn more about this coalition’s efforts to foster economic growth, click HERE to read.

In closing, September beckons us to continue our journey of community engagement, economic prosperity and personal well-being. Remember, every choice you make to shop locally is a step toward creating a healthier, stronger and more vibrant future for us all.

Cheers,

Hillary Haenes Interim President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber

REPORT FROM THE CAPITOL

Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains

After a three-year hiatus, we proudly announce the return of our signature event: Report from the Capitol. Join us on Tuesday, Oct. 24 for a luncheon featuring Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains. This members-only forum provides a candid, first-hand update from our local legislator to the business community with exclusive policy updates from Sacramento.

Schedule:

11:30 a.m.

Check-in / Networking

Noon - 1:15 p.m.

Program Location: Stockdale Country Club, 7001 Stockdale Hwy.

Seats will be on sale soon! For sponsorship opportunities please email Savanah Adams at sadams@bakochamber.com.

2023 Beautiful Bakersfield Award Recipient – A Better Bakersfield

To celebrate 10 years of empowering women here in Kern County, Dress for Success Bakersfield’s Founder and Executive Director, Elaine McNearney wanted to show her appreciation to the local community in a big way. Elaine gathered a power team of local professional women, spearheaded by Chairperson Lizette Patterson and Co-Chair Roberta Nilsson to plan the organization’s very first gala with the theme, Dress for the Stars.

The Dress for the Stars Gala was a huge success. In attendance were more than 200 of Bakersfield’s finest donned in glamorous gowns and suits. Thanks to our local community’s support, and the support of our corporate sponsors and wonderful donors, the Gala was able to raise almost $30,000, which will be used to continue helping women right here in Kern County. What a surprise and honor it was to be nominated for the 2023 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards in the A Better Bakersfield category. There were so many deserving nominees in that category, so we were stunned and excited when we were announced as the winning nominees! While being awarded that beautiful crystal trophy was an amazing experience, being recognized along with the other very deserving nominees at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards was the greatest honor we could hope for.

Dress for Success is an international organization dedicated to empowering women to realize their full potential and achieve financial independence. Poverty often impacts women the most, and its effects on them and on their families can be long-lasting.

Dress for Success Bakersfield partners with 50 local community agencies to provide women with resume-building services, financial literacy and relevant skills. Every woman has the right to look and feel their very best while they are seeking employment, so we help them to choose a headto-toe interview-ready outfit and partner them with a volunteer to practice interview skills and to build confidence in themselves.

We have helped more than 3,300 women in Bakersfield, and it is our hope and joy to continue to serve many more in the years to come. We are very grateful to Chevron and to many other corporate sponsors who continue to support our efforts. The pandemic greatly affected the number of women being referred to us, so our main focus this year is to meet with potential agency partners who can refer clients to benefit from our resources. We are always happy to welcome community volunteers as well.

Our boutique is open to the public on Wednesdays between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and we have some beautiful clothing available for purchase. We will be holding our much-anticipated Bubbles and Bargains event in November. Follow us on social media so you don’t miss any of our future events! Please reach out to Elaine McNearney at bakersfield@dressforsuccess.org if you would like to help or with questions.

Thank you, Bakersfield!

- Elaine McNearney, Founder/Executive Director Dress for Success

A Better Bakersfield

An annual event or project that enhances the quality of life in the community.

Architecture & Design

The completion of a brand new interior and/ or exterior building design integrating the environment with space and materials.

Arts & Culture

Efforts by a group or individual to improve and/or enhance the arts and culture within our community.

Business Person of the Year

A local business owner/manager whose efforts truly impact and enhance the quality of life in the community.

Education

Efforts by an educator, project or school/ college that promotes or benefits education in our city at all levels.

Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement

A local long-time community leader, age 55 and over, who has made a lasting impact to Bakersfield and its residents.

Health

An individual, group or organization impacting healthy living - above and beyond their normal scope of activities - through education, prevention or medical services.

Humanitarian Group

A group whose personal volunteer efforts have made a significant impact in the community.

Humanitarian Individual

An individual whose personal volunteer efforts have made a significant impact in the community.

Large Business/ Corporation of the Year

The recognition of a large business (26 employees or more) whose volunteer hours and/or financial donations have made a meaningful difference.

Next Gen

An individual or group in grades K-12 that, through personal involvement and endeavors, has answered the challenge of good citizenship.

Nonprofit of the Year

Efforts of a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that impacts the community.

Renovation & Tenant Improvement

The completion of a renovated design that upgrades an existing structure and/ or incorporates the use of landscaping to enhance the aesthetic value of the property.

Small Business of the Year

A small business (25 employees or less) whose contributions and/or products and services instill community pride.

Urban Revitalization

An individual, business or organization that has made a meaningful contribution in the past year to placemaking, reimagining how we live, work and play.

Young Professional

An individual, age 18-40, whose efforts truly impact and enhance the quality of life in the community.

PLEASE NOTE:

Nominations must be for work completed in 2023 to be eligible for consideration. No more than two nominations per individual, business or organization will be considered.

Nomination Deadline: Friday, February 2, 2024

Reviving the Soul of Fitness:

How Collective Gyms Transforms Workouts

In a world where cookie-cutter gyms are a dime a dozen, three fitness enthusiasts dared to dream bigger. Shaun Graves, Eric R. Frapwell and Tyler Sevedge embarked on a mission to revive a legendary gym experience, ultimately bringing Collective Gyms to fruition — a space that offers a dynamic haven for fitness enthusiasts seeking more than just a place to break a sweat.

Collective Gyms’ DNA is rooted in a shared commitment to solving problems and creating a fitness sanctuary that defies convention. The trio recognized the glaring gaps in traditional gymsill-fitting equipment, lackluster atmospheres and an absence of personal touch — and embarked on a quest to redefine the gym experience.

“We really wanted to bring back the experience and the vibe of old-school gyms,” Shaun said, harking back to the days when gyms were more than just exercise centers. “They were sanctuaries where like-minded individuals gathered to get work done, support, motivate and learn from each other.”

Itʼs not just the handpicked equipment that sets hearts racing and muscles pumping. Itʼs also the gymʼs embodiment of old-school camaraderie, a concept that according to the founders is disappearing in the fitness landscape.

In an era where gyms have become impersonal, Collective Gyms aims to restore the sense of community and shared purpose that once thrived within fitness spaces.

“Our journey to create a gym that embodies our ideals continues to be a labor of love,“ said Eric.

Every piece of equipment in Collective Gymsʼ space is curated from Savedge Iron Company and is handpicked with meticulous attention to detail.

“Each machine is chosen for its unique biomechanics, functionality and impact on muscle engagement,” said Eric. “This curated collection ensures that each workout is not just an exercise in sweat, but an experience in muscle refinement.”

While other gyms might shun the idea of allowing members to influence equipment choices, Collective Gyms thrives on member input.

When someone achieves their fitness goals, it often spills over into other aspects of their life –their relationships, their work and their overall sense of purpose.

Meet the Owners

Tyler, the muscle and owner of Savedge Iron Company, a used and refurbished gym equipment business, is responsible for the gym’s equipment curation and functionality. Armed with a deep understanding of biomechanics and decades of experience, Tyler ensures that every piece of equipment at Collective Gyms is handpicked for optimal performance. His dedication to creating an inclusive space where individuals of all sizes and fitness levels can thrive is evident in every detail.

Shaun, a former marine and expert in sports nutrition, is the financial and marketing mastermind behind Collective Gyms. He is quick to admit that defining his role within the gym is as challenging as completing an intense workout. As a jackof-all-trades, Shaun takes pride in steering the financial ship, driving marketing initiatives and igniting the sparks of creative ideas that fuel the gym’s evolution.

Eric, a professional trainer, adds another layer of passion. With a keen eye for aesthetics and a commitment to providing a top-notch workout experience, Eric oversees marketing strategies and the day-to-day operations of the gym. His fervor for crafting an environment that caters to bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts alike shines through in his passionate commitment to education.

“The first three months of operation were dedicated to gathering feedback and suggestions, with members actively providing feedback on the equipment,” noted Tyler. “Equipment was swapped, adjusted and refined based on real-world usage and member preferences. And we’ll continue to do it.”

Collective Gyms is quickly becoming a destination spot for fitness enthusiasts far and wide.

“People from all over want to work out on this unique equipment,” said Shaun. “We’re becoming a destination gym as people learn about us from across the country. They’re eager to experience the benefits of the legendary equipment we offer.”

Collective Gymsʼ journey was marked by a leap of faith by the founders who knew they were a collective force that when united they could make the business a true success.

“With more than 552 members signing up before our doors even opened for business the communityʼs belief in our vision was evident,” said Tyler.

“We had 178 people sign up in one night,” added Tyler, recalling the unprecedented surge of interest during a preview event.

“There was a lot of anticipation that fueled the

collective energy surrounding the gym’s grand opening,” said Tyler. “We offered an enticing founding rate, a gesture of appreciation to those who had placed their faith in the gym before we even welcomed our first member. This dynamic pricing strategy not only helped us build a strong founding member base but also set the tone for a culture based on trust and mutual support.”

Collective Gymsʼs story is not just one of fitness but of brotherhood, growth and the unwavering belief that a community driven by shared values can transform lives.

“Itʼs more than just a gym; itʼs a testament to the collective spirit that thrives when like-minded individuals come together in pursuit of a common goal,” said Shaun.

Itʼs a melting pot of diverse individuals brought together by a common goal. Shaun emphasized the importance of the gymʼs atmosphere, explaining, “Itʼs the atmosphere and the weights. Itʼs metal on metal plates that sound and do nothing more than motivate an individual.”

Beyond the weights and sets, Collective Gyms is a reflection of its foundersʼ commitment to rekindling the spirit of a close-knit community. As Shaun aptly describes, “Community is family.”

The gym has become a space for individuals seeking more than just physical transformation – itʼs a place where they forge connections, seek guidance and embark on journeys of self-improvement.

“Weʼre not just here to make money. Weʼre here to make a difference,” said Eric. “We want individuals who are genuinely committed to their health and wellbeing. Thatʼs why we’ll eventually have to cap our memberships.”

As Tyler pointed out, “Fitness is just the beginning. Itʼs about fostering a mindset of continuous improvement. When someone achieves their fitness goals, it often spills over into other aspects of their life – their relationships, their work and their overall sense of purpose.”

Collective Gyms isnʼt just a place to work out; itʼs a community where diverse individuals come together to support each other.

“Weʼre hosting events, collaborating with the Police Department and inviting outside vendors to contribute. Our doors are open to everyone who wants to experience what we offer,” added Shaun.

As Bakersfield continues to evolve, Collective Gyms continues to solve problems faced by fitness enthusiasts. With each person who walks through its doors, the gym becomes a catalyst for change, proving that a healthy

community is built on more than just exercise. They shine as an example of whatʼs possible when individuals with a shared vision work tirelessly to create a space that transforms lives and strengthens the community.

The gym's membership options cater to various needs. The Day Pass allows visitors to experience the state-of-the-art facility and enjoy a fulfilling workout for just $20. It's ideal for those passing through town, seeking a one-day fitness boost, or exploring before committing to a monthly membership.

For those looking for a more comprehensive experience, the Unlimited Plan provides 24/7 access to the gym for $59.99 per month.

Visit www.cltvgyms.com or follow them on Instagram (@cltvgyms). Watch and subscribe to their YouTube for a new video series called Collective Gyms Raw, created to tell stories about their members and bring the community closer together.

Sponsored by

Media Day Leadership Bakersfield

As any communications professional knows, the modern media landscape is all about mastering the pivot from crisis one moment to promotion the next. This year’s 2023 Leadership Bakersfield class had the opportunity to do just that, as they navigated from the sweat-drenched crisis communication exercise that has become an anxiety-inducing staple of Media Day to the fun of pitching, promoting and packaging their message on live radio and a prerecorded commercial spot.

Thanks to our gracious hosts at KGET-TV 17, the class was treated to a tour of the news leader’s state-of-the-art studio by Vice President and General Manager Derek Jeffrey. Always a highlight of the day, the tour took our class behind the cameras, offering both a broad view of how the news is covered, the cutting-edge technology, and nitty-gritty details like the subtle lighting changes for each broadcast and which vertically challenged anchors stand on boxes to deliver the news.

From there, the class observed the morning news meeting of reporters, anchors and editors, who discussed potential stories for the day’s broadcasts. The meeting is a rare and personal glimpse into what makes a story newsworthy, informational, moving or provides the viewer with a positive snapshot into the lives of our friends and neighbors.

Following the news meeting, two respected Bakersfield communications professionals made presentations to the class on the day’s double themes: Media relations during a crisis, and how to work with the media to get promotion for your organization.

Michelle Corson, public relations officer for Kern County Public Health Services Department, led

a powerful examination on how to communicate with the public during a time of crisis. She took the class inside her own career, discussing reallife crises like contaminated water, health-related restaurant closures, the COVID-19 pandemic and more. Michelle is never afraid to be vulnerable with the class, revealing mistakes that she has made and what she learned from them.

Megan Simpson, a news producer at KGET-TV 17 and former communications professional with a local hospital, offered valuable advice on how to cut through the clutter and get the attention of the media for your event, activity or story. She offered details on who to contact and how to talk to the media.

From there, we segued to the Media Day activity that has become legendary with class members: The crisis communications scenarios and mock press conferences.

The class was divided into nine teams of two or three members and given a nightmare scenario. They were given 30 minutes to write a message and deliver it press-conference style before a panel of journalists: Christine Peterson of The Bakersfield Californian; Alex Fisher of KGET-TV 17; and Stacey Shepard, senior information officer at the California Energy Commission. All of the teams were poised and thoughtful despite the grilling and emerged from the exercise with a greater understanding of the importance of staying on message and being honest.

From KGET, the class headed to Alpha Media studios for a live on-air interview to pitch their community projects on 99.3 the Groove and 95.3 Energy. Thanks to the conversational and helpful

DJ’s, they did an excellent job of representing their projects and Leadership Bakersfield.

In tandem with the live interviews, team members were given the opportunity to produce a 60-second commercial spot for KNZR, 99.3 the Groove and 95.3 Energy. We gave the class members a heads’ up a week before so that they could draft a script in preparation. In four years of co-chairing Media Day, we have never seen a class have more fun. The laughter and camaraderie filled the station. And now the spots are running!

For many reasons, the 2023 Media Day was special for co-chairs Jennifer Self of CSUB and Jeremy Price of Alpha Media. It was the last class of Leadership Bakersfield that we had the privilege to mentor and support. But this class also had a spark of curiosity and collegiality that made the last of our Media Days very special.

As we look ahead to turning the reins over to other communications colleagues to lead Media

Day forward, we wish to express our appreciation for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, Leadership Bakersfield, our fellow advisory board members and to our indispensable collaborator at the Chamber, Kami Gonzalez.

May the next co-chairs have as much fun as we did and may Leadership Bakersfield grow and prosper!

- Jennifer Self and Jeremy Price

END OF SUMMER

All photos are courtesy of April & Co. View all the photos from the Mixer here.

LABOR LAW & HR FORUM

Leaves Of Absence Management

Leaves of Absences are one of the most confusing and litigated areas of Employment Law. It can be challenging to navigate the complexities of leaves of absences, but don't worry!

We invite you to join our upcoming Labor Law & HR Forum, "Coordinating Leaves of Absences." During this training session, Jerry Pearson, Employment Law Attorney with The Law O ces of Young Wooldridge, will guide you through the maze of this complex subject. He will help you understand and coordinate various types of leaves:

Topics will include:

• FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE ACT (FMLA)

• CALIFORNIA FAMILY RIGHTS ACT (CFRA)

• PREGNANCY DISABILITY LEAVE (PDL)

• PAID FAMILY LEAVE (PFL)

• WORKERS' COMPENSATION ACT (WC)

• AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)

• FAIR EMPLOYMENT AND HOUSING ACT (FEHA)

Presented by

Event details:

DATE:

Wednesday, Sept. 27

TIME: 7:30 a.m. Check-In/Networking; 8-10 a.m. Forum

LOCATION:

Chamber O ce, 1725 Eye St.

COST: $30 Members; $60 Nonmembers Light breakfast included.

REGISTER: info@bakochamber.com or call 661-327-4421

If you’re an HR professional or business owner wanting to expand your knowledge, this session is designed with you in mind! Stay informed, remain compliant, and ensure you and your employees understand your rights.

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.

Amelia Molloy’s Angels

661-800-7096

ameliamolloysangels.com

“We are local 501(c)3 that brings awareness to infertility. Helping those struggling with infertility financially, emotionally and mentally.”

Appreciation Financial

661-304-2696

appreciationfinancial.com

“We help small businesses and individuals with insurance and financial success.”

Bloom Fresh

8224 Espresso Dr., Ste. 200 Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-304-8261

“Develops new varieties of table grapes and cherries through private traditional lab-breeding programs. Holds patents for unique said fruit; licensing to growers and marketers.”

California Neurology Institute

5201 California Ave., Ste. 102 Bakersfield, CA 93309

800-298-1775

caneuroinst.com

“This private practice of physicians and staff provide the most advanced and effective treatment in Neurological care to all adults and adolescents in Kern County.”

Central Valley Community Bank

4646 Wilson Rd., Ste. 102A

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-501-1461

cvcb.com

“Central Valley Community Bank offers personalized banking services for businesses and individuals with a proved track record of strength and stability for more than four decades.”

Econolodge Bakersfield

1030 Wible Rd.

Bakersfield, CA 93304

661-282-8872

“Econolodge Bakersfield is a hotel lodging facility that accommodates the general public and all types of businesses.”

Elite Aesthetics and Dermatology

3409 Calloway Dr., Ste. 602 Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-218-9923

eliteaestheticsandderm.com

“We strive to provide our patients with the highest quality aesthetic and dermatological care while providing a compassionate and thriving environment.”

Ladies And Gents Bridal

3820 Coffee Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93308

661-333-2053

ladiesandgentsbridal.com

“Retail full-service bridal salon complete with in-house alteration department. Tuxedo rentals, bridesmaid dresses, mother dresses, prom dresses and flower girls.”

Maison Law

1430 Truxtun Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-243-3333

maisonlaw.com/bakersfield

"Maison Law provides skilled, experienced and personalized legal guidance to the voiceless and the injured in the Central Valley."

Mentor’s Moving & Storage

3101 Gilmore Ave., Ste. 400 Bakersfield, CA 93308

661-677-6052

mentorsmoving.com

“Mentor’s Moving was founded on the principles of hard work, superior customer service and eagerness for community involvement. A full-service moving company that truly believes customer service and community involvement is the key to success.”

MJY Towing

18007 Rosedale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93314 323-437-1345

mjytowing.com

“Towing and roadside assistance.”

My Dentist In Bakersfield

13125 Rosedale Hwy., Ste. 100 Bakersfield, CA 93314

661-324-8055

mydentistinbakersfield.com

“Multi-specialty family practice.”

Senior Move Manager & More!

4900 California Ave., Ste. 210-B Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-301-1722

“We are a concierge-type service that helps seniors with all aspects of their housing needs. We provide resources for: Aging in place, reverse mortgages, estate sales, prepare a home for sale, staging, listing & selling a home, downsizing, moving to a senior living community, packing/unpacking and disposition of personal property.”

Slater Plumbing and Mechanical, Inc.

5814 Woodmere Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93313

661-587-5999

slaterplumbing.com

"We provide plumbing, mechanical and welding services to customers in Kern County. Large or small, we service it all!"

Soheila Torabi, MD Advanced Integrative Medicine

3550 Q St., Ste. 301

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-404-4445

sohointergrativemedicine.com

“ We are integrated practitioners who combine conventional, integrative and alternative therapies in treating patients and utilize all stated modalities of diagnosis.”

Straight Up Zero Proof Bar

661-497-7368

straightupzeroproofbar

“Your No. 1 non-alcoholic mobile bar! Serving you highquality, zero-proof cocktails, beer and more.”

RIBBON CUTTINGS RIBBON CUTTINGS

PAST RIBBON CUTTING

Grand Opening

Northwestern Mutual 9201 Camino Media, Ste. 110 jameshefley.nm.com

UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS

California Neurology Institute

Date: Thursday, Sept. 14

Time: 4 p.m.

Location: 8335 Brimhall Rd., Bldg. 1100

Leadership Bakersfield: Lori Brock Discovery Center

Date: Friday, Sept. 22

Time: 10 a.m.

Location: 3801 Chester Ave.

SCHEDULE YOUR CEREMONY

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

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.

A La Mode Luxury Aesthetics - 2022

AAA Quality Services - 2018

Applied Technology Group, Inc. - 2019

Aspire Behavioral Health - 2018

Aspire Counseling Services - 2016

AT&T California - 1946

Atlas Financial Solutions, Inc. - 2022

Bakersfield Condors Hockey - 1995

BBSI - Bakersfield - 2014

Century 21 Jordan-Link & Co. - Jeanne Radsick - 2009

Cuyama Buckhorn LLC - 2018

Darlene Denison State Farm Insurance - 2008

DHM Holdings, Inc. dba Horizon HR - 2022

Dmohowski Consulting Services - 2015

Environmental Waste Minimization, Inc. - 2015

EnviroTech Consultants - 2004

Euro Pro, Inc. - 1996

Europhoria Medical, Inc. - 2022

House of Flowers - 2017

Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant - 2009

Kaiser Permanente Kern County - 1987

Kern Glass & Aluminum Company - 2021

Kern High School District - 1984

Mercy House - 2021

Pacific Western Bank - 2017

Paul Pilger - 2019

Principal Financial Group - 2005

Purpose Driven Home Health - 2019

Safe 1 Credit Union - 1994

Secure Systems - 1992

Smithco Surveying Engineering - 2022

Sparkle Uniform & Linen Service - 2021

Springstead Solutions - 2020

Stockdale Country Club - 2004

The UPS Store #2179 - 2022

Uricchio’s Trattoria - 1995

Urner’s - 2018

Vista Del Lago Estate LLC - 2022

XIT Solutions - 2002

Upcoming Events

September 2023

Member News

Bakersfield ARC - is collaborating with the Greater Bakersfield Chamber to find and secure employment for their clients who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are encouraging local businesses to utilize this opportunity to participate in Bakersfield ARC’s Paid Internship Program at no cost to the employer. This program not only provides business with hard working, loyal, and enthusiastic employees, but also encourages Bakersfield ARC’s clients to become integrated into a real-world work environment. Please contact Savanah Adams at sadams@bakochamber.com for more information.

Kern County Library - Kern County Library and Kern Literacy Council 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. Free tutoring is available in the following subjects:

• Adult Basic Education (ABE) Adults 18+ can receive help with reading, writing, and math.

• Child and Teen Basic Education (CBE) Children and Teens ages 7-17 can receive help with reading, writing, and math.

• GED Preparation (GED) Students can receive coaching in a variety of high school subjects to help pass their GED or high school equivalency test.

• English as a Second Language (ESL) Learn to read, write, and speak English from beginner to advanced levels.

• Citizenship Test Preparation (CTP) Test Prep coaching for the United States Citizenship Test.

Whether it's mastering test prep, refining your basic reading, writing, and math skills, or preparing for your citizenship test, tutors are here to guide learners of all ages. Reserve your spot for a free tutoring session at your local Kern County Library, or seamlessly connect for an engaging online session. Book your FREE tutoring appointment today at: kernlibrary.org/tutoring

City of Bakersfield - A new program to help local small businesses and nonprofits offset the cost of security improvements in Bakersfield is now offering up to $5,000 in grant funding to qualified enterprises. The City of Bakersfield’s new Business Security Improvements Grant Program, available through the Economic & Community Development Department, will provide American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) monies for improvements such as installing alarm systems, security cameras, lighting and repairing damaged or destroyed windows. The grants will be available to businesses and nonprofits in Qualified Census Tracts within the City of Bakersfield. “We know that this is the No. 1 issue and this program is just one of many ways the City is working to support businesses,”

Vice Mayor Andrae Gonzales (Ward 2) said. To qualify, businesses must have a current business license with the City of Bakersfield with no delinquent bills or outstanding liens issued by the City. The program is only available to enterprises with 500 or fewer employees. Each business site is eligible to receive only one grant, up to $5,000, as outlined in the Program Guidelines. Program applications are available on the City’s website and at the Economic & Community Development Department located on the third floor at City Hall North, 1600 Truxtun Ave

North of the River - Invites Community to join the fun this Fall & Winter! North of the River Recreation & Park District (NOR) is hosting a wide variety of classes, camps, sports, and seasonal activities for the community this Fall and Winter! Check out NOR’s Fall/Winter 2023 Funbook HERE or view online at NORfun.org to explore a full catalog of recreational programs.

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.

The Playful Space - Cassandra Gear of By That One Girl and Emily Hay of The Playful Space are hosting the Second Annual CelebrateYOUpalooza, a community event for women committed to choosing joy and infusing it back into the community. Come celebrate yourself from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23, at Charizma Studio, 910 18th St. and support the mission of The Open Door Network. Speaker Series, Q&A and breakout sessions featuring local empowered women sharing their path to choosing joy and finding strength in the struggles of life. Come connect and learn with Rubi Zetino, Lauren Skidmore, Carla Barrientos, Jina McMillan and Heather Laganelli, plus some surprise guests! Sip on wine and champagne by Tlo Wines and enjoy a full day of delicious treats from local women-owned businesses. Interactive Art Stations and fun confetti photo opportunities with The Photo Booth Corner. Swag bags, raffle, vendors, and prizes! Tickets are available at bythatonegirl.com

A La Mode Luxury Aesthetics - is having a Hydra Facial Keravive Event on Thursday, Sept. 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at their location, 2120 Truxtun Ave. There will be hors d’oeuvres, drinks, event promotions and a raffle. Meet Keravive experts, mingle and consult with staff. RSVP 661-404-4661 or hello@alamodemedspa.com.

2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman of the Board

Ken Keller

Bakersfield Memorial Hospital - Dignity Health

Incoming Chairman

Rob Duchow

Southern California Gas Company

Mark Bateman – Young Wooldridge LLP

Deanna Blaise – Valley Strong Credit Union

Bruce Davis – Bolthouse Properties

Octavio Escobedo – Tejon Indian Tribe

Kamal Gill – Brimhall Pharmacy/Panama Pharmacy

Maybelle Liquigan – Kaiser Permanente

Denise Newton – PG&E

Jacob Panero – Varner Bros, Inc.

Veronika Placencia – KERO-TV 23

G Riar – Riar, Inc.

Willie Rivera – Aera Energy

CHAMBER STAFF

Hillary Haenes

Interim President & CEO

Kami Gonzalez

Director, Administration & Operations

Concepcion "Cepi" Willingham

Member & Business Development Manager

Savanah Adams

Manager, Stakeholder Engagement

Valerie Sheldon

Administrative Assistant

Get Social

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@bakochamber

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS

Golden Empire Transit - Golden Empire Transit (GET) is the largest transit system within a 110-mile radius. GET is committed to making the lives of Bakersfield residents better by connecting people to places one ride at a time.

MAJOR INVESTORS

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS

BYNUM INC.