Metro August 2023

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.

INSIDE on the

Mayor Karen Goh, City of Bakersfield and Christian Clegg, City Manager Photo courtesy of April & Co.

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

Updates and Upcoming Events from the Greater Bakersfield Chamber

On behalf of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, I am delighted to share some noteworthy updates from our recent State of the City luncheon, a collaborative event jointly hosted by the Chamber and the City of Bakersfield. This gathering brought together more than 350 business and civic leaders, allowing us to address pressing issues and celebrate the progress achieved in the past year. Thank you to all who supported and attended this event, especially to our City leaders.

Our mission is to foster collaboration among business, civic and public sector leaders to create a thriving Bakersfield. The State of the City luncheon provided an excellent platform for dialogue, enabling us to address concerns raised by our members and work collectively to tackle these challenges head-on. It is through such collaborations that we can pursue an agenda of shared prosperity and improved quality of life for all residents.

As for Chamber programs, Leadership Bakersfield will begin accepting applications for the Class of 2024 starting Monday, Aug. 14. This esteemed 10-month program has been instrumental in shaping the future of our community by bringing together exceptional individuals. If you or someone you know is ready to expand your leadership talents and make a meaningful impact in our community, then Leadership Bakersfield is the perfect platform.

Stay tuned for the official announcement on Aug. 14, and make sure to submit your application before the deadline on Aug. 31 at 5 p.m.

Speaking of marking your calendars, please plan to join us for our August Mixer, generously hosted by Jim Burke Ford. You can find further details for this event on page 7

Date: Thursday, Aug. 31

Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

Location: Jim Burke Ford Downtown, 2001 Oak St.

Cost: $10 Members / $15 Nonmembers

Drink Tickets $7

Raffle Tickets $5 for 6

And finally, I am pleased to share a highlight from our monthly Ambassador Committee meetings: A steady increase in attendance month-over-month. We have welcomed dynamic speakers and are providing a platform for business-to-business engagement. Should you wish to attend a meeting, reach out to us, and please remember to RSVP for events to ensure adequate accommodations.

We are finalizing details for our upcoming events this fall with information to come!

Sincerely,

Hillary Haenes Interim President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber

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

Beautiful Bakersfield Award Recipient –Renovation/ Tenant Improvement Chairman's Award

The Open Door Network works every day to make our community better. We work to reimagine the lives of so many who have faced their darkest days. Receiving an award recognizing our newest building supporting housing and workforce development departments was a true milestone for the hard work both from our team and the City of Bakersfield, who supported the renovation. The Chairman’s Award supporting our Downtown Street Ambassadors, a workforce development program that hires currently or formerly homeless individuals, was a great recognition for the bold work done every day through this team. We are so humbled and blessed to be seen for this work. Our organization is seeing strategic growth in helping support homelessness and victim care. We have recently opened a transitional home supporting those who are needing additional support post detox. In 2025, we aim to open a new campus supporting homeless families and individuals. This will be a pivotal location, where all wrap around services will be offered, including childcare, mental health services, job training and educational services. We are excited to reimagine how we support our clients facing homelessness.

- Lauren Skidmore, CEO The Open Door Network

2023

City of the State

Greater Bakersfield Chamber hosts the 2023 State of the City in Downtown Bakersfield

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber and the City of Bakersfield jointly hosted their annual State of the City luncheon to acknowledge the pressing issues Bakersfield faces and celebrate the progress made over the past year. This year’s event, presented by Valley Strong Credit Union, took place at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center in downtown Bakersfield and brought together more than 350 business and civic leaders.

In individual speeches, Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh and City Manager Christian Clegg sought to provide clear information and help attendees understand the realities of our growing city. Their presentations highlighted strides to address issues including public safety, homelessness and quality of life. They also presented plans for Bakersfield’s growth and prosperity.

“At the Chamber, our business is a better Bakersfield, and that means fostering collaboration among our city’s business, civic and public sector

leaders,” said Hillary Haenes, Interim President and CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. “This year’s State of the City was an opportunity to get to the heart of the biggest concerns we hear from our members, provide a forum for dialogue and collaborate to tackle these challenges head-on and continue to make progress.”

Through programs like State of the City, Government Review Council and Leadership Bakersfield, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber promotes community engagement and creates opportunities for residents to actively participate in developing solutions to challenges the city faces.

“Bakersfield’s city government leaders cannot solve every issue we face, on their own,” added Haenes. “Through collaboration with stakeholders from the business and civic sectors, we can pursue an agenda of shared prosperity and improved quality of life for all.”

View all the photos from 2023 State of the City here.

Beat the Heat at Dignity Health Sports Complex

As the scorching summer sun beats down on Bakersfield, families are seeking fun and safe ways to stay active without succumbing to the heat. Thanks to a strategic collaboration between Dignity Health and Gameday Sports Academy (GSA), the Dignity Health Sports Complex, Event & Educational Center provides a fun solution that ensures families can continue their sporting pursuits while staying cool and protected from the sweltering temperatures.

A State-of-the-Art Haven

The Dignity Health Sports Complex, managed by GSA, stands as a symbol of the communityʼs unwavering support for its youth. Covering an expansive 55,000 square feet, this pioneering facility is the first of its kind in Kern County, offering a wide array of amenities to cater to the interests and needs of young athletes and adults alike. Boasting basketball, volleyball, futsal and newly introduced pickleball and cheer, it provides a comprehensive sports experience.

“What truly sets us apart is our emphasis on holistic development,” said GSA Marketing Director Winston Crite Jr. “With dedicated space for learning and multi-purpose use, the center aims to foster

athletic excellence, academic growth and personal development.”

Indoor facilities at the complex provide a refreshing escape from intense heat, enabling young athletes and adults to continue their training, competitions and personal growth without compromising their health.

“As temperatures reach extreme levels in the summer and winter, practicing and staying active outdoors can be challenging for youth,” noted Crite. “This complex is a state-of-the-art haven where families can continue their athletic journeys while ensuring their safety and well-being.”

As summer unfolds, GSA remains steadfast in its mission to inspire a healthier and more active community. Crite and his team are committed to providing the community with a sanctuary that not only hones their athletic abilities but also molds them into well-rounded individuals, prepared to face any challenges that come their way.

“Sports encompass more than just physical prowess; they teach discipline, teamwork and valuable life skills,” added Crite. “By nurturing their minds and bodies in this environment, we set them up for success both on and off the court.”

Gameday Sports Academy Offers Safe Summer Fun for Families in Kern County

With over 4,000 kids from more than 130 Kern County schools benefiting from this collaborative effort, the Dignity Health Sports Complex has truly become a thriving hub for nurturing talent and empowering youth.

“Itʼs a shining example of how innovation and collaboration can transform the lives of youth and shape a healthier, happier community for generations to come,” said Crite. “Sports offer a fantastic avenue for social interaction, camaraderie and personal growth. Weʼve seen an increase in membership as parents recognize the value of these experiences for their childrenʼs development.”

GSA Expanded Programming

Dignity Health Sports Complex shines all year long with an array of exciting offerings from GSA for both youth and adults.

“With our summer program winding down, weʼre excited to kick off our fall programming,” said Crite. “Our leagues for basketball, volleyball and futsal are all set to start in mid-August. The best part is, you can join us throughout the year without any longterm commitment. Our leagues operate on a monthto-month basis, allowing flexibility for participants

to explore different sports or take breaks when needed.”

GSAʼs dynamic approach to sports programming is all about providing opportunities for exploration and growth.

“We want everyone to feel welcome and engaged in our activities,” said Crite. “For those looking for something new, weʼre thrilled to announce our brand new cheer program. Additionally, weʼre gearing up for the launch of our highly anticipated soccer program, and weʼre inviting the community to join us at our Open House event on Aug. 12.”

The upcoming soccer Open House promises to be a day filled with pick-up games, delicious food, cool prizes and a chance to win a 30-day GSA Soccer Membership.

“People of all ages and levels are welcome to attend,” said Crite. “Come dressed in your futsal or tennis shoes and get ready for a fun-filled soccer experience!”

As GSA continues to innovate and expand, theyʼre introducing exciting new nighttime activities as well.

“Weʼre all about creating unique and enjoyable experiences,” added Crite. “Weʼve recently launched ‛Neon Nets,ʼ our late-night volleyball events, where

we play under black lights with glow sticks and neon decor. Itʼs been a huge hit, and weʼre excited to make it a regular occurrence. Plus, Neon Nets is expanding to basketball and pickleball as well, offering something special for everyone.”

The addition of pickleball to GSAʼs lineup has garnered a lot of interest, and GSA is looking to develop an adult league for this fun and accessible sport.

“Pickleball is a fantastic way for people of all ages and abilities to have a blast on the court,” said Crite. “Whether youʼre a beginner or an advanced player, GSA Pickleball has something for you.”

Making a Positive Impact through Community Partnerships

When it comes to community support, Crite appreciates the backing GSA receives from those who are informed about the Dignity Health Sports Complex.

“Once people visit and witness the facilityʼs offerings, they are eager to lend their support and get involved,” he said.

Gameday Sports Academy has initiated a sponsorship program to foster these collaborations with businesses in the community. Notable sponsors like Kern Family Health Care, Three-Way Chevrolet and Montano Orthodontics have come forward, helping to provide discounted memberships to children in certain situations.

Crite points out that the complex is far from its full potential. The team envisions numerous projects to be executed with continued and expanded support.

There is an eagerness to partner with businesses and companies that can benefit families in need. One example is Jozay’s Barber Shop, which will provide discounted or free haircuts to kids during their practices.

The drive to involve local businesses is fueled by the desire to create a central hub and resource for the community. Valley Strong Credit Union, one of its partners, will soon offer financial literacy courses to young athletes. This interconnected approach creates a win-win scenario, where the community benefits from the support they give.

We want to create opportunities and memories that kids and adults alike will cherish for a lifetime.

Crite believes in the importance of shopping and supporting local businesses and that it can make a significant difference in the community.

“Supporting local businesses directly impacts lives, both business owners and those within the community,” said Crite. “Money invested in local businesses stays within the community, creating jobs and fostering positive experiences. Itʼs about the ripple effect that spreads positivity through various interactions.”

If any businesses are interested in partnering with GSA or becoming sponsors, they are encouraged to reach out without hesitation. Crite emphasized that they are open to discussions, and there is tremendous potential for growth and mutual benefits through these partnerships.

For more information, please visit their website dignityhealthsportscomplex.com, email crite@ gamedaysportsacademy.com or call 661-489-4330.

Sponsored by

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.

Adventure Awaits Coffee Shop

819 19th St.

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-699-0070

adventureawaitscoffeeshop.com

“Veteran-owned coffee shop, that brings culture coffee recipes from around the world and elevated pastries from different cultures.”

EquipmentShare

9701 Enos Ln.

Bakersfield, CA 93314

661-448-3323

equipmentshare.com

“Our rental and fleet operations are powered by T3, a digitally-connected platform, to give customers a streamlined rental experience that helps them build with control.”

InstaStop Chevron Gas Station

3943 Rosedale Hwy.

Bakersfield, CA 93308

661-348-5956

“Locally owned gas station that supports and features some of Kern County’s local favorite foods.”

Sol y Luna Mexican Cuisine

11420 Ming Ave.

Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-412-4939

solylunabakersfield.com

“Sol y Luna Mexican Cuisine is a fine dining Mexican food establishment. Our philosophy is to provide not only a fine dining experience but also to feed your soul with a divine experience in our beautiful establishment but provide superb service.”

Elite Income Tax & Payroll Solutions

4646 Wilson Rd., Ste. 102A

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-501-1461

“We specialize in tax preparation from individuals to businesses, including corporations, LLCs & nonprofit organizations. We provide payroll services as well as bookkeeping services to local businesses. We can help you set up your corporation, LLC and nonprofit organization.”

Nexus Real Estate

4900 California Ave., Ste. 210-B

Bakersfield, CA 93309

661-301-1722

nexusrealestateca.com

“Locally owned real estate company that is experienced in residential, residential income, commercial/industrial & land. Specializing in working with 55+ senior community.”

Kelly Archer Interiors Inc.

3510 Allen Rd., Ste. 103 Bakersfield, CA 93314

661-809-5739

kellyarcherinteriors.com

“We are a design firm that includes full house design, custom furniture and window coverings, home decor, gourmet coffee beans and gifts.”

Westcoast Security Screens

5630 District Blvd. Bakersfield, CA 93311 661- 448-3897

westcoastsecurityscreens.com

“Stop home invasions with cut-resistant, tamperresistant, weight-resistant screens with 100 percent satisfaction guaranteed. We support you every step of the way.”

America’s Best Contact & Eyeglasses

8430 Rosedale Hwy., Ste. 101 Bakersfield, CA 93312 661-535-6679

americasbest.com

"We are America’s best contacts & eyeglasses and strive to be the best with our vision, mission and values."

America’s Best Contact & Eyeglasses

3001 Ming Ave., Ste. 415 Bakersfield, CA 93304

661-527-6502

americasbest.com

“ We are America’s best contacts & eyeglasses and strive to be the best with our vision, mission and values.”

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.

ARRC Technology - 1996

Aunt Mae’s Sweet Tooth - 2020

Bakersfield Christian High School - 1999

Bakersfield SPCA - 2012

Bakersfield Truck Center - 1992

Belfor Property Restoration - 2010

Bland Company - 2015

California MENTOR - 2002

CALPLY Inc. - 1993

Central Valley Commercial Brokers, Inc. - 2021

Chick-fil-A - 2021

City of Bakersfield - 2015

Emser Tile - 2015

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bakersfield - 1989

Golden Empire Concrete Sales - 1989

GR8HERITAGE - 2022

Grow Public Schools - 2019

Kern County Family Magazine - 1996

Legacy Staffing Solutions, Inc. - 2022

M & S Security Services, Inc. - 2011

Mendiburu Magic Foundation - 2019

MV & Associates Real Estate - 2022

SpringHill Suites by Marriott - 2014

Stewart Title of California, Inc. - 1975

Empowering Inclusivity with Paid Internship Program

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.

For more information contact Savanah Adams at sadams@bakochamber.com

Member News

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.

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 Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County is working to set Club members up for success this school year by ensuring all of them have the necessary supplies with its Back2School Drive. School supply donations are being accepted at two Club sites through Aug. 7, with monetary donations being accepted online. Click HERE for drop off locations and online donations. Club staff will utilize the online gifts to purchase school supplies. Suggested school supplies include backpacks, composition notebooks, spiral notebooks, construction paper, copy paper, pencils, pens, colored pencils, markers, crayons, highlighters, post-it notes, glue sticks, tape rolls, student scissors, and other office supplies. Gift cards to office supply stores or retail vendors are also welcome and will be used to purchase needed supplies.

Please join Beyond the Stars No limits, Inc. in celebrating its inaugural soft launch for its Mental Health Resource, Awareness and Support Event on Saturday, Aug. 12. This event is geared toward teenagers, young adults and family members seeking resources and support for mental health services. Please register for tickets on EventBrite. There are only 50 slots available, so sign up today! There will be keynote speakers, food, photo booth, basket raffles, backpack giveaway, family fun and more! For more information, call 424-387-1748 or email Beyondthestarsnolimit@gmail.com

Eagle Mountain Casino – Regional Mexican singer “El Flaco” Luis Ángel and special guest “El Mimoso” Luis Antonio will perform at Eagle Mountain Casino’s Event Center on Friday, Aug. 18 at 7 p.m. “El Mimoso” Luis Antonio will be the special guest performer. “El Mimoso” is a Mexican Norteño/Banda singer with a large following of all ages. A solid live performer, he has been a member of some of Mexico’s most famous bands. His top hits include “Amame” and “En Esta Vida no se Pudo.” Tickets are on sale now and start at only $59. Must be 21 and older to attend. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket kiosk machines inside the casino or online HERE

Project Clean Air is hosting a Free Electric Vehicle Charging Symposium. It is a workshop about installing EV chargers at business properties and multi-family unit dwellings. It will be held at the Doubletree on Rosedale Highway in Bakersfield from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 31. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. We would like to invite local business owners, multi-family unit dwelling owners, and other employers to join us. We are going to have sessions about incentives and grants, equipment and different infrastructure information. For more information, email sjvevp@gmail.com

North of the River Recreation & Park District (NOR) is hosting a wide variety of camps, classes, programs and activities for the community this summer! Pick up a copy of NOR’s Summer 2023 Funbook at one of our community centers or view it online HERE to explore a full catalog of activities, camps, and recreational programs. “It’s easy to enjoy a staycation in the North of the River community,” says Jasmin LoBasso, Superintendent of Recreation & Community Services. “By joining the fun at NOR, you’ll transform your staycation into a ‘Playcation!’” For additional information, please contact Jasmin LoBasso, Superintendent of Recreation at jlobasso@ norrecreation.org or 661-392-2000.

Keep yourself and your family covered by making sure your information is up to date. Health Net wants you to know that Medi-Cal covers vital health care services for you & your family which includes: doctor visits, prescriptions, vaccinations, mental health care and more. If you have Medi-Cal make sure you renew it when it's due for renewal. Update your contact information: Report any new changes to your name, address, phone number & email so your county can contact you. For more details & information on how to update your contact info, visit HERE

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

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

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

@bakochamber

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE FOCUS

Jim Burke Ford Lincoln - Building lasting relationships through the sales and service of new and used vehicles in the community of Bakersfield since 1913.

MAJOR INVESTORS

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE MEMBERS

BYNUM INC.