Hungry For Action
LET THE GAMES BEGIN
ere's nothing like a little friendly competition to keep your mind sharp and your body in tune. And at Highgate Regents, Bakers eld's premier gated, master planned, active adult community, you'll have lots of new friends to compete with. Whether it's a lively game of pickleball, a refreshing dip in the pool, a relaxing evening grilling steaks on the Regency Club patio, or a special event organized by a community group or our social director, there's always something interesting to do in Highgate Regents.
When you're ready to start enjoying life more, come to Highgate Regents, where there's more life to enjoy.
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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
September Shines a Light on Hunger, Alzheimer’s, and Community Resilience
Dear Chamber Members,
Event season is in full swing. With autumn officially here, September brings double the impact—it's Alzheimer's Awareness Month, a cause near and dear to my heart, and Hunger Action Month, which we’re proud to spotlight in this issue of Metro. Let’s “fall” into everything happening this season!
September's Hunger Action Month brought muchneeded attention to the critical issue of food insecurity. Across Kern County, the crisis remains particularly dire. In 2022, 14.3% of adults here reported experiencing food insecurity, a figure higher than the national average. The numbers were even more alarming for children, with over 20% unsure of where their next meal would come.
Local organizations like the Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) took the lead with their Feed the Need campaign, uniting residents and businesses to help stock local food pantries. Their collaboration with the Kern County Fair turned donations into a simple yet impactful way to help families in need.
September also marks World Alzheimer's Awareness Month. To honor this, we hosted an informative Ambassador Committee luncheon. Dr. Maheep Virdi, Justina Howell, and Julie Juarez-Ceja shared insights into Alzheimer's prevention, early detection, resources, research and how to care for a loved one with this disease. Children’s Book Author Nate Bertone shared his heartfelt story, Nana Nana, which opens the door to conversations about Alzheimer's between children and their families. On Patriot Day, we attended the Bakersfield Fire Department’s annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony. This month marked 23 years since the tragic events of that day, and we stood with community leaders to honor the memory of those lost, especially
Bakersfield native, Betty Ong. Betty was the courageous American Airlines flight attendant who first alerted authorities to the hijackings, and her bravery was commemorated with a new bench at Fire Station 15. We remain eternally grateful to the first responders who continue to protect our community, remembering heroes like Betty whose actions saved lives.
Another milestone this past month was the 36th annual John Brock Awards, where the community came together to celebrate Jim Scott and Robin Mangarin-Scott's decades of dedication to our community. Every year, five CSUB School of Business students receive financial scholarships to support their future business endeavors.
Looking ahead, our Bakersfield Young Professionals (BYP) Mixer, presented by Dignity Health, is happening on Oct. 10. This is a great chance to connect with local leaders and learn from Jess Druey, the winner of Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars. With insights into her Gen-Z wine line, Whiny Baby, this mixer is one not to miss!
Please mark your calendar for National Chamber Day on Oct. 16. It’s a chance to connect over coffee, hear about our exciting initiatives, and discover new ways the Chamber drives success for businesses across Bakersfield.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to making our community a better place for all.
Blessings, Janelle Capra President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Hosted
Join us at the Bakersfield Museum of Art for our next Bakersfield Young Professionals Mixer!
Oct. 10
5:30 p.m.
Special guest Jess Druey, Founder & Owner of Whiny Baby, will be sharing her story and advice. All professionals are welcome to participatedon’t miss out on a fun evening of networking.
Presented by
Jess Druey Jess Druey
Do the Math Wins Education Award at BBA
Innovative TV program connects students to real-world math applications and career pathways in Kern County, celebrating 23 years of educational impact.
Winning the Beautiful Bakersfield Award in the Education category is a true honor, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. For 23 years, our Do the Math program has taught students that math is more than just numbers. It’s a key to careers in industries like robotics and construction. Our goal has always been to show students how math applies to real life and the careers waiting for them right here in Kern County.
With help from local industry leaders, segments like “Robots at Work” and “Tools of Mathematics” have given students a clear look at how math is used every day. And now, with our newly upgraded set, we’re able to expand that vision even further. After 22 years, it was time for a refresh, and our new set reflects the growth of our students and the innovation happening in Kern County.
As our student population grows, so does our commitment to making math engaging and relevant. This award highlights the incredible
work being done to prepare our students for the future. We’re excited to keep inspiring the next generation with the power of math, right here in Bakersfield.
Steve Sanders, Kern County Superintendent of Schools
Arts & Culture Day
Exploring Bakersfield's Vibrant Arts & Culture:
Leadership Bakersfield's 2024 Class delves into the creative scene
To highlight the abundance and rich history of the arts & culture of Bakersfield, Leadership Bakersfield’s 2024 Class was given a full agenda covering the visual and performing arts in and around our downtown area.
Participants embarked on a journey into the heart of our city to discover Bakersfield's rich artistic heritage and the thriving arts scene.
The day commenced with a delicious breakfast at the Boys & Girls Club, setting the stage for an enriching adventure. While there, the participants learned about the many creative programs the Boys and Girls Club offers to our local youth.
Exploring Downtown Bakersfield during a walking tour unveiled the intentional development of space and public art that has shaped our city's identity. The walking tour ended at the Fox Theater, where the class was treated to a lovely performance on the grand staircase by Jill Burdick along with a sneak peek of the Fox’s upcoming ghost tour.
The class moved over to the Stars Theater and were treated to delightful performances by local talent,
including a quartet performance by the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra while dining on a delicious lunch prepared by Mossman's Catering. Visits to the Portrait of a Warrior Gallery and the Bakersfield Museum of Art provided opportunities to delve into the city's art and history. Afternoon presentations included Andrea Hansen of Kern Dance Alliance, Robert Price’s presentation of The Bakersfield Sound, folklórico dance and a caricature drawing of a class member by Zane Smith.
The day concluded with a powerful youth flash mob performance, showcasing that the arts are accessible all around us if we just take a moment to enjoy.
The Greater Bakersfield Chamber extends our heartfelt thanks to our day chairs, Holly Arnold & Zane Smith, for orchestrating the "Best Day Ever!"
Our sincere appreciation also goes to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County and the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra for their invaluable support.
Arts and culture are woven into the very fabric of our community, shaping our identity and providing inspiration for all to enjoy.
Program Underwriter:
CAPK’s Feed the Need Kern County Takes Action Against Hunger
This September, Hunger Action Month brought a heightened focus to a pressing national issue: food insecurity. Across the country, millions of Americans faced uncertainty about their next meal, but in Kern County, California, the crisis was especially stark. In 2022, 14.3% of adults in Kern County reported experiencing food insecurity—a figure that outpaced both state and national averages. For children, the situation was even graver: over 20% were unsure where their next meal would come from.
As the nation recognized Hunger Action Month, the Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) led the charge locally with its annual Feed the Need campaign, galvanizing residents and businesses alike to help restock local food pantries. At the heart of this initiative was the Feed the Need Canned Food Drive, a collaboration with the Kern County Fair, which turned canned goods into entry tickets. On Sept. 24, fairgoers who donated six or more canned items gained free admission, a simple yet impactful gesture aimed at collecting thousands of pounds of food for local families in need.
A Community Effort
This year’s Feed the Need drive came at a critical time for the county’s 200-plus food pantries and community centers, which have long depended
on public generosity. CAPK volunteers, stationed at each entrance of the fairgrounds, collected donations and spread awareness of how food insecurity impacts the local community. The food collected will be distributed across the county, providing meals for children, seniors, and families struggling with hunger.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from the Kern County community,” said Jeremy T. Tobias, Chief Executive Officer of CAPK. “This event highlights the urgent need to address hunger in our county, and the community’s response is a testament to their compassion and commitment to making a difference.”
Despite soaring triple-digit temperatures, community members showed up in force. While it did not surpass last year's record-breaking haul of 30,000 pounds of food, this year's drive managed to gather an impressive 25,638 pounds. This equates to approximately 21,412 meals for those in need. "Every pound of food donated makes a real difference in the lives of our neighbors," said Kelly Lowery, CAPK Food Bank Program Administrator.
Since its launch in 2012, Feed the Need has collected over 650,000 pounds of food—a staggering contribution to the fight against hunger
"This year's drive managed to gather an impressive 25,638 pounds. This equates to approximately 21,412 meals for those in need."
in Kern County. What began as a modest effort has become one of the community’s most anticipated events, drawing support from individuals, families, and local businesses.
The Role of Local Business
This year, as in previous years, the business community played a pivotal role in Feed the Need's success. Local companies provided financial support, donated food, and encouraged employees to volunteer. Corporate partnerships, CAPK noted, are crucial not just for their immediate contributions but also for the long-term sustainability of efforts to combat hunger.
“Hunger affects more than just the people it directly touches,” Tobias said. “When children go hungry, their ability to learn and succeed is compromised. When parents face food insecurity, their work productivity and health suffer. The business community’s involvement is essential in breaking the cycle of poverty and hunger.”
From friendly internal competitions to large-scale donation drives, businesses in Kern County have stepped up. They’ve rallied their employees and inspired customers to get involved, providing much-needed resources to keep CAPK’s Food Bank running year-round.
For many of these companies, supporting CAPK’s mission goes beyond philanthropy—it’s a way to strengthen the entire community. Hunger, after all, doesn’t just impact individuals; it affects the productivity and well-being of an entire workforce.
A National Call to Action
The urgency of Hunger Action Month, a nationwide initiative led by Feeding America, extends beyond the boundaries of Kern County. With 40% of the food produced in the United States going to waste each year, communities are called to tackle the systemic causes of food insecurity and waste. The month-long campaign encourages people to act by donating, volunteering, or raising awareness of hunger in their local communities.
Yet for CAPK, the mission to end hunger is not limited to one month. The organization’s Food Bank distributes millions of pounds of food annually to individuals, nonprofits, and shelters across Kern County. Events like Feed the Need help keep the shelves stocked, but the need for ongoing support— particularly from businesses—remains critical.
“Hunger Action Month may be over, but the fight to end hunger continues every day,” Tobias said. “We encourage the business community and individuals alike to get involved year-round.”
Looking Ahead
With Hunger Action Month drawing to a close, CAPK remains focused on its mission: providing food to those in need and working toward longterm solutions to food insecurity. The business community’s involvement has been, and will continue to be, a vital component of this effort. From volunteerism to financial support, local companies help CAPK distribute millions of pounds of food
annually, ensuring that no one in Kern County goes hungry.
For more information on how your business can support CAPK’s mission to end hunger, visit capkfoundation.org/ham24.
Kern County Steps Up for Hunger Action Month
While September may have been marked by heightened awareness of hunger, the people of Kern County know that addressing food insecurity is a year-round effort. As businesses, volunteers, and residents rally around campaigns like Feed the Need, the county inches closer to a future where no one has to wonder where their next meal is coming from.
In a place where agriculture reigns, the irony of hunger is not lost. But thanks to the efforts of CAPK and the support of the Kern County community, there is hope that one day, hunger will no longer be a defining feature of life in this vibrant region.
Cal State Bakersfield Basic Needs Department
The Basic Needs Department at California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) addresses food and housing insecurity through its essential services programs including the Food Pantry and Edible Garden. The Food Pantry is dedicated to supporting students, staff and faculty by providing access to food assistance, enabling them to focus on their academic performance and overall well-being.
The Edible Garden, a vibrant 1-acre farm on campus, directly supplies the Food Pantry with fresh produce as well as hosts a weekly Farm Stand. Additionally, these programs offer educational and community building opportunities by providing hands-on training, internships,and social events that aim to promote sustainability, community engagement and a healthier campus environment.
Bakersfield College Renegade Nexus Food Pantry
The Renegade Pantry was established in 2009 when the Bakersfield College Student Government Association recognized a growing need among students and launched the program to support their health and wellbeing. Initially focused on providing nonperishable food items through college and community donations, the pantry has since grown into a critical resource.
Today, the Renegade Nexus Pantries offer a wide variety of supplemental food options as well as personal and professional clothing, hygiene products and personal care items. Open to enrolled BC students, staff and faculty, our pantries serve as a support across three locations: the Main Campus, Delano Campus, and a snack station in Wasco.
Last year, we had over 46,000 visits, demonstrating the vital role these services play in fostering student success. Created by students for students, the pantry remains a cornerstone of support, promoting nutrition education and greater wellbeing across the college community.
Golden Empire Gleaners
40 Years of Feeding Kern County through Community Support
For almost 40 years, the Golden Empire Gleaners has collected food from local farms and grocery stores and redistributed it to hungry families in our community. Hundreds of families each day are able to put food on the table solely because of The Gleaners’ commitment to alleviate hunger in Kern County. The Gleaners collects, transports, stores, sorts and gives out hundreds of tons of food each year through direct distribution to individuals and through a network of community organizations that have programs to feed the hungry. All of this laborintensive work is done with no government funding. The Gleaners is community-supported through the generosity of local businesses and individuals.
For more information on Hunger Action Month, visit feedingamerica.org.
John Brock Awards
Community Honors Bakersfield Icons Jim and Robin Scott at 36th Annual John Brock Awards
The Greater Bakersfield Chamber recently attended the 36th annual John Brock Awards, where local icons Jim Scott and Robin Mangarin-Scott were honored for their dedication and service to the Bakersfield community. The awards, held on Sept. 5, paid tribute to the Scotts for their decades-long impact and recognized them as role models of leadership, integrity and commitment.
Jim Scott and Robin Mangarin-Scott have been influential figures in Kern County since joining KGETTV in 1996. They have become pillars of the local community, with Robin now serving as the Marketing and Communications Director for Dignity Health, and Jim continuing as Kern County’s longest-running news anchor at KGET-TV.
The John Brock Community Service Award honors outstanding community service citizens and raises funds for scholarships at CSUB's School of Business. The John Brock Sr. Endowed Scholarship, established in memory of Mr. Brock, Sr., continues to support the future of Bakersfield’s business community, empowering the next generation of leaders.
As partners in life and work, Jim and Robin Scott
Jim Scott and Robin Mangarin-Scott on KGET
have made a lasting impact on the Bakersfield community. The John Brock Award is a testament to their professional accomplishments and dedication to the people of Kern County.
The John Brock Awards honor today's leaders and invest in tomorrow's leaders, aiming to uphold Mr. Brock’s legacy in every generation of Kern County. Congratulations to Jim and Robin Scott on this welldeserved recognition, and thank you for continuing to inspire our community.
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.
Above Board Construction & Roofing
1440 Hartnell Ave. Redding, CA 96002
530-605-3400
530newroof.com
“General contractor, roofing and solar installation with over 25 years of experience in the industry.”
American Heart Association
7272 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75231
661-655-8304 heart.org
“For 100 years, the American Heart Association, along with our volunteers, supporters and collaborating organizations, has worked to build longer, healthier lives.”
ECOsource Printers, INC
1600 Mill Rock Way
Bakersfield, CA 93311
661-368-2700
ecosourceprinters.com
“We sell and service copiers and printers.”
Garage Force of Bakersfield 2404 Alpine Meadow Ct. Wasco, CA 93280
661-292-0290
bakersfield.garageforce.com
“We are an industry leader in the concrete coating industry.”
Les Schwab Tire Center
3012 Buck Owens Blvd. Bakersfield, CA 93308
661-332-1425
lesschwab.com
“World-Class Service You Can Trust - Les Schwab is everywhere, from the West Coast to the Great Plains. You’re never far from one of our stores.”
Monopoly Chest LLC
955 Oak St. Bakersfield, CA 93304
909-223-4777
The Realtor Jessica Whittington 15521 Joseph Phelps Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93314
661-316-7679
therealtorjessicawhittington.com
“I am a real estate agent for the Broker Coldwell Banker Preferred Realtors here in Bakersfield. I sell Residential, Farmland, and Commercial property.”
UPCOMING EVENTS
October 2024
Tuesday, Oct. 1
GRC
Noon | Chamber
Wednesday, Oct. 9
Ribbon Cutting - Dignity Health Special Needs & Community Outreach
10 a.m. | Mercy Hospital
Thursday, Oct. 10
BYP Mixer
5:30 p.m. | Bakersfield Museum of Art
Wednesday, Oct. 16
Coffee with the Chamber
8:30 a.m. | Chamber
Friday, Oct. 18
GRC
8:30 a.m. | Chamber
Tuesday, Oct. 22
Ribbon Cutting - Bakersfield Electric Motor Repair, Inc.
4 p.m. | Bakersfield Electric Motor Repair
Wednesday, Oct. 23
Labor Law & HR Forum
8 a.m. | Chamber
Tuesday, Oct. 29
Ribbon Cutting - The Ranch at Stockdale River Ranch
3:30 p.m. | Stockdale River Ranch
Wednesday, Oct. 30
GRC
Noon | Chamber
RENEWING MEMBERS
Thank you for reinvesteing in the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Your investment helps the Chamber continue its mission to Build a Better Bakersfield.
AAA Quality Services - 2018
Alianza Recycling and Recovery LLC - 2010
Bakersfield Rehabilitation Hospital - 2021
Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House - 2009
Bolthouse Properties, LLC - 2006
California Aeronautical University - 2016
California Veterans Assistance Foundation Inc. - 2009
Colliers International - 2011
Dewar's Candy Shop - 1994
eMedia - 2011
E.R.F. Incorporated DBA Central Valley Medical Supplies - 2022
Global Family Care Network - 2010
Greenlawn Southwest - 2011
Grimmway Enterprises Inc. dba Grimmway Farms2008
High Desert Medical College, dba Legacy Foundation2020
Holiday Inn Express - 2017
Houchin Community Blood Bank - Oswell St. - 2022
Houchin Community Blood Bank - Truxtun Ave. - 2022
Hydrostor - 2022
Independent Living Center of Kern County - 2017
Iron Nikkel Construction, Inc. - 2021
Kern Dance Alliance - 2017
Kern Valley Printing - 1995
Kona Ice of Central Bakersfield - 2023
McCormick Biological, Inc. - 2016
Mercy House - 2021
MP Environmental Services, Inc. - 1993
New Frontier Consulting - 2023
Ordiz-Melby Architects, A Professional Corporation1996
Outlets at Tejon - 2014
Padre Hotel, LP - 2009
RA Johnsfam dba McDonald's-Ming Ave. - 2010
Rev Renewables - 2022
Tejon Ranch Conservancy - 2022
TM Signs and Graphics - 2020
T&T Liberty Safes, Inc. - 2018
MEMBER NEWS
Make-A-Wish® Central Coast and Southern Central Valley Rams Night for Wishes Benefiting Make-A-Wish® Central Coast and Southern Central Valley on Monday, October 14, 2024 at Sherwood Country Club. Join us for the 7th Annual LA Rams Night for Wishes - a very special evening of football, food, fun, and philanthropy in support of Make-A-Wish®. LA Rams Night for Wishes will be hosted by the LA Rams at Sherwood Country Club. A limited number of sponsorships and tickets will be sold, and the event has sold out for the past 6 years! We expect over 350 influential community supporters and philanthropists in attendance again this year and we would love for you to join us. Guests will experience a special evening under the stars including a hosted cocktail reception, dinner, live and silent auctions, LA Rams players, mascot, cheerleaders, entertainment, and a celebration of wishes. Locally, Make-A-Wish grants lifechanging wishes to children living in our own community. The number of children requesting a life-changing wish is growing—over 200 sick children are currently waiting for their special wish. We need you to make these wishes happen!
For sponsorship opportunities or more information, contact us at info@cvs.wish.org or 805-676-9474, or visit https://RamsNight24.givesmart.com.
The Bakersfield Racquet Club is proud to announce that we are partnering with the USTA, the ITF and Kaiser Permanente to bring professional women’s tennis to Bakersfield from October 7th-13th, 2024. This free event will be a W35 Futures Tournament featuring cash prizes totaling $25,000. This is the first annual Women's Tennis Open since 1983 when Jennifer Mundel-Reinbold won the Ginny of Bakersfield.
For sponsoring opportunities, we have partnered with Kern Community Foundation and are looking to partner with the businesses in our community to help the young women in both our community and professional tennis step towards the next level of health and fitness. As a first annual event, we are hoping to make part of this event called "serve up sisterhood" an October event that brings together Bakersfield women of all ages in our community. Don't forget to add this incredible community event to your calendars! For more information email womanstennisopenbakersfield@gmail.com or visit our website!
Wellspring is a nonprofit Christian counseling agency that has been serving Bakersfield since 2011. We are celebrating the opening of our new location in downtown Bakersfield. Please join us for our ribbon cutting, open house, and fundraiser on October 10 at 4:30 p.m. that will help to replenish our four care-funds to help people during the most challenging of times. To raise funds, we will
be selling smoked tri-tip sandwiches, desserts, and raffle tickets. Come and learn more about Wellspring, meet our amazing staff, and find out what’s coming up. Visit our website for more information.
Nanette Yabiku Coaching presents Live2Lead Bakersfield, a leadership and personal growth event on October 17 from 9 AM to 2 PM at Linos Venue, 1931 H St., Bakersfield, CA. Hosted by Nanette Yabiku, this event will teach you how to cultivate an abundance mindset, lead yourself effectively, maintain positivity while leading others, and enhance both your marriage and business. You'll also learn the rules of resilience, with a focus on overcoming the energy gap. The event features renowned speakers, including John C. Maxwell, Jon Gordon, Michael Jr., Chaunté Lowe, and Valerie Burton. For more details, visit the event page here!
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 – Berry Corporation
CHAMBER
Janelle Capra
STAFF
President & CEO
Kami Gonzalez
Vice President, Members & Programs
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. @bakochamber
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To see how BHK can help you, visit bhkcpas.com
MAJOR INVESTORS
CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS
