Metro

METR

A publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce | March 2018

Brought to you by

on the

INSIDE

3 CEO MESSAGE

Recruiting and retaining employees is a concern across all industries.

How the Chamber is working on efforts to help our members combat this issue.

4 WORKPLACE INVESTIGATIONS It can happen to any business – an employee complaint. We put you in contact with legal experts on the best way to proceed.

6 MUST-ATTEND NETWORKING Whether you want to build connections or learn about economic trends, our March calendar has the event for you.

COUNTY 10 KERN CAREER EXPO

It was an event nearly a year in the making. Read why organizers say it was important to link local students with career and vocational opportunities.

11

YOUTH LEADERSHIP BAKERSFIELD The Chamber has been prepping the city's future leaders for nearly two decades. See what this year's class explored on its latest sessions.

13

MEMBER NEWS

15

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Discover the latest news and happenings with other members.

Celebrate important milestones of fellow Chamber members.

METRO | PAGE 2

Cover

Photo of a Youth Leadership Bakersfield student at PG&E's Service Center on Wible Road.

Contact us

#YourBusinessAdvocate 1725 Eye St. • PO Box 1947 Bakersfield, CA 93303 661.327.4421 bakersfieldchamber.org

Metro is the official publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce. 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 mrossiter@bakersfieldchamber.org. © Copyright 2018. All rights reserved.

Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.

GBCC

Efforts to recruit & retain

THE BEST WORKFORCE

R

ead any magazine or talk to any business owner or executive, and you’ll hear the same thing. They’re concerned about their organization’s ability to attract, recruit and retain talented and skilled employees. This concern cuts across all industry sectors and all businesses, regardless of size.

The same is true for our region and local businesses.

Nick Ortiz The Chamber is about to launch our 2018 BizClimate Survey to get some perspective on the local economy and the challenges our members face. The 2017 survey results sent a clear message – our members need a steady pipeline of skilled employees, and they need the ability to attract those highly-skilled employees to our region.

The local results mirror also what is being reported on the national level. Last month, Goldman Sachs held the investment bank’s annual Small Business Summit, and 70 percent of the business owners in attendance identified talent attraction and retention as their top concern.

For 2018, the Chamber is looking to bulk up our work on combating the “brain drain” and improving the prospects for employers that are recruiting candidates from out of town. In January, we launched the 17th annual Youth Leadership Bakersfield program, and we will be working to link them with opportunities after they complete the

program. We were asked to partner with a large group of business organizations, companies and educational institutions to plan the first-ever Kern County Career Fair, which you’ll read about later in this issue. Our millennialfocused group, Bakersfield Young Professionals (BYP), is in the process of planning the third annual BYP Summit, which will feature enlightening and inspiring speakers. All of these efforts are meant to illustrate to the next generation of business leaders that there are vibrant careers and amazing opportunities right here in Bakersfield.

Finally, we are helping to facilitate an effort to improve the external image of Bakersfield and Kern County, which we hope will help our members showcase what makes our community unique and appealing. Part of that effort will be focused on improving the ability of us who are natives or longtime residents to become better ambassadors.

While we work on these initiatives, we also remain focused on serving our members. March is a busy month at the Chamber and we have opportunities focused on linking businesses and helping our members stay in compliance with labor regulations. Our Pancakes & Partnerships program links our small businesses with procurement and supplier opportunities at larger corporations and organizations. The Labor Law & HR Forums keep our members in compliance with state and national labor regulations. Attending just one of these seminars really can provide a return on investment equal to or greater than your annual dues investment.

Nick Ortiz

President/CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce

46th annual

CSUB SPRING

BBQ

THURSDAY, MAY 10 5:30P.M. TH

ICARDO CENTER

Chairman: John Giumarra, Jr. | Chefs: Gary and Adam Icardo

For tickets or sponsorship information please call (661) 654-3473 METRO | PAGE 3

ADVOCACY

Expand your

COMPLIANCE KNOW-HOW

W

ith constantly-changing regulations, it can be hard to stay up-to-date on how to keep your business in compliance. The Chamber gives our members access to the area's top legal experts to help them stay informed about employment law updates and HR topics.

When allegations of harassment, discrimination, safety and retaliation surface in the workplace, a company is legally mandated to launch an investigation. However, knowing what steps to take first are important as a company goes through the process.

Attorney Jerry Pearson, of Young Wooldridge LLP, will explain everything you need to know before beginning a Jerry Pearson workplace investigation.

Cost is $25 for members; $50 for nonmembers. A light breakfast will be provided. Register at bakersfieldchamber.org. Cancellations must be received within 24 hours in advance to preclude billing.

How to attend Labor Law & HR Forum Thursday, March 15 Registration 7:30 a.m.

Program 8-10 a.m.

Chamber Office 1725 Eye St. $25 members |$50 for nonmembers Register at bakersfieldchamber.org

You will learn…

When should an investigation be conducted?

Who can or should conduct the investigation?

What to do with your notes and report at the completion of the investigation?

Labor Law & HR Forum Series Presenting Sponsor

Co-Sponsor LLP

METRO | PAGE 4

CONNECT

An in-depth look

ECONOMIC TRENDS

D

on’t miss your opportunity to attend the region’s largest economic forecast event. Ticket sales close Monday, March 12.

Each year, the Chamber partners with the Kern Economic Development Corporation and California State University, Bakersfield to host the Kern County Economic Summit. This event brings in toptiered economists and business leaders to keep Kern’s business community informed about local economic trends, discuss ways to sustain and advance the region’s Wednesday, March 14 economic prosperity 7-11:30 a.m. and the potential DoubleTree by Hilton impacts of future Tickets available at kedc.com projections.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Dr. Victor Davis Hanson, an award-winning author and a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. Hanson has written hundreds of articles, book reviews and editorials on matters ranging from ancient Greek, agrarian and military history to foreign affairs, domestic politics and contemporary culture.

In addition to information on current economic conditions in Kern County, experts will also discuss the local real estate market and how the next election will impact the economy.

Purchase tickets at kedc.com.

Speakers include…

KEYNOTE SPEAKER Dr. Victor Davis Hanson

CSUB economic professors Richard Gearhart and Nyakundi Michieka Bakersfield High School political science teacher and author Jeremy Adams Real estate broker Derek Sprague California Aeronautical University President Matthew Johnston Indian Wells Valley Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Scott O’Neill John Shin, Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Research Roger Hayes, Sierra Technical Services, Inc.

Platinum Sponsors

CSUB economic professors Nyakundi Michieka (left) and Richard Gearhart will return as speakers at the 2018 Kern County Economic Summit.

METRO | PAGE 5

CONNECT

Bringing members

TOGETHER

T

he intersection of Empire Drive and Truxtun Avenue is not usually a destination you think of for a night out on the town. With a host of medical office buildings, the bustling of activity typically happens from 9-5. However, one of the city’s prominent medical practices will transform its waiting room into a smooth jazz lounge for the Chamber’s next After Hours Mixer.

March 22 Southern California 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Orthopedic Institute, Southern California 2400 Bahamas Drive, Orthopedic Institute Suite 200, will be the $5 members | $10 nonmembers place to be seen on March 22. Bring a few of your closest friends and enjoy drinks and appetizers

by Luigi’s in a relaxed atmosphere. Meet SCOI’s doctors, including its newest associate Dr. Karl Balch, a total joint surgeon.

Find more information at bakersfieldchamber.org.

SAVE THE DATE APRIL 26 Castle & Cooke –

Highgate Regents at Seven Oaks 5:30-7:30 p.m.

14407 Rokeby Way

MAY 24

Kern Law Enforcement Association 5:30-7:30 p.m.

3417 Pegasus Drive

JUNE 28

Empire Eye & Laser Center 5:30-7:30 p.m.

4105 Empire Drive

JULY 26

Bakersfield Hyundai 5:30-7:30 p.m.

5300 Wible Road

SAVE THE DATE APRIL 12 Elements Venue

SUMMIT

Sponsorships available

Contact Hillary at 661.327.4421 for details.

See what’s shaping the city’s unique culture

METRO | PAGE 6

NEW BOARD MEMBERS

O

ver the next two months, the Chamber will introduce its new members who serve on the Board of Directors. These new board members come from various industry sectors and bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help the Chamber better serve its membership.

G Riar

Owner, Deprigo Gurpinder Riar, aka “G,” is the founder of Deprigo, a print and media agency firm in Bakersfield.

He has extensive experience in business management and has proven his entrepreneurship by starting up a multitude of his own businesses. Those businesses have included restaurants, retail stores, e-commerce and startups.

Along with Deprigo, Riar G Riar currently owns and operates several retail locations and e-commerce businesses in Bakersfield.

Riar is extremely passionate about giving back to the community and successfully uses his businesses as platforms from which to do so. To support the community, Riar works with more than 20 local and national nonprofit organizations and currently sits on the board of three nonprofits.

He immigrated to Bakersfield at the age of 13 and attended the Academy of Arts University in San Francisco.

METRO | PAGE 7

Ricardo Villarreal

Kern County District Manager, Wells Fargo Bank Ricardo Villarreal is the Kern County District Manager for Wells Fargo Bank.

He oversees 11 branches throughout Kern County and ensures the daily operations for all his locations.

Villarreal has worked for Wells Fargo for 16 years. He started his career at Wells Fargo as an assistant manager in the Los Angeles Area. In 2014, he was promoted to become the district manager for Kern Ricardo Villarreal County.

He is also very active in the community. Villarreal serves on the boards of both the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Greater Chamber of Commerce of Bakersfield.

Villarreal believes that the community of Bakersfield is a unique and wonderful community filled with so much growth and opportunity for families and businesses.

“W

here I come from, everything is homegrown. Working with a local bank that is homegrown, makes me feel…well…at home.”

JAMES & S ANDY E UDY Sunshine Metal Clad, Inc. As one of the leading industrial insulation contracting firms in the United States, Sunshine Metal Clad, Inc. has specialized in insulation development, manufacturing and installation services for a large variety of industries for 30 years.

Owners James and Sandy Eudy know there is no substitution for great quality and excellent service; that’s what they provide their customers and that’s what they expect from their bank.

“I hope my customers feel as comfortable with me as I do with Valley Republic. Now, that’s quite a compliment to my bank!”

Local. Responsive. Reliable.

5000 California Avenue, Suite 110 | 4300 Coffee Road, Suite A6 11330 Ming Avenue, Suite 400 510 Woollomes Avenue, Suite 106, Delano

valleyrepublicbank.com | 661.371.2000 Valley Republic Bancorp

(VLLX)

ECONOMIC VITALITY

Building

CAREER AWARENESS

T

housands of local students buzzed with excitement as they walked through rows of exhibitors at the Rabobank Convention Center for the first-ever Kern County Career Expo. The event provided key access to more than 100 of the area’s employers.

The expo was spearheaded by the Kern High School District, and the Chamber was one of many organizations that spent nearly a year planning this event.

“It’s designed to turn the light on for kids and get them interested in careers they probably didn’t know existed.

This opportunity starts to answer questions like what kind of education do you need, what’s a day in the life like, what skills do you need and start to make those connections,” said Brian Miller, KHSD supervising administrator, Regional Occupational Center.

“The Chamber’s committed to providing outlets for the city’s next generation to enter the workforce prepared and energetic. This event provided a chance for Kern County youth to see what the jobs of today truly look like, and what steps they need to take to make their aspirations a reality,” GBCC President/CEO Nick Ortiz said.

The first stop for a lot of students was A-C Electric Company's booth in the lobby. The company not only shared its own career options with students, but it also

shared an in-house process it uses to help employees decide which path to take with the company. Students were given a two-minute personality test. Based on the preliminary results, students were then given which careers are suited for their personality.

"We got to thinking what if we all got this as teenagers, what path could we have taken? It's a great opportunity for us to give back to the community and help develop career opportunities for local students," said Katherine Van Dyke, the company's marketing administrator.

The main message from most vendors was certain industries, like health care, are not only for someone who has a specialized degree.

"The hospital is like a community, and we need a lot of different people and skill sets to make it run efficiently," said Brad Garrett, a recruiter with Dignity Health – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals.

With a shortage of architecture graduates, local firms like Ordiz-Melby Architects, Inc. said events like this are perfect to showcase their field and fill vacancies. Architect Jeannie Bertolaccini explained the firm will hire students while they're completing their degrees and allow them to work in their office during school breaks.

"Since the colleges are here, they really focus on getting to know you and what programs you want. They also give you brochures to show you the prerequisites you need,” said Golden Valley High School student Amy Arriada.

The event's success was best summed up by Shafter High School student Erasmo Carreno, “It is setting me on the right path for what I want to do.”

METRO | PAGE 10

Kern County Career Expo Sponsors

ECONOMIC VITALITY

EXPLORING local industry

S

ince 2001, the Chamber's Youth Leadership Bakersfield (YLB) program has shown countless local high school students what it takes to be a leader in the community.

During February, the class learned what’s behind two of Bakersfield’s main industries – health care and energy.

Health & Human Services Day This session gave students a sampling of two organizations working to make a difference in the lives of Kern County families.

Heidi Carter-Escudero, with the county’s Department of Human Services, explained how the department’s more than 1,000 employees work to help local families. The Bakersfield Homeless Center also opened its doors for a tour. Students learned how its jobs program is helping homeless families get back on their feet, and how its staff cares for residents as well as the surrounding community.

Kern’s growing health care industry was the focus of the session's second half. Adventist Health Bakersfield gave unprecedented access to its AIS Cancer Center, Outpatient Surgery Center and helipad, where students saw the latest equipment doctors are using to save lives. At lunch, a panel of health care professionals shared their knowledge and passion.

When students arrived at the Kern County Public Health Department later, they were greeted by Director Matt Constantine and a swarm of reporters. The issue at hand – a Hepatitis A outbreak. Students were then divided into strike teams to interview victims and visit several locations. A student from each strike team then had the task of reporting their team’s findings at a mock press conference. While there was no real outbreak, Constantine explained the exercise was a reality his department is equipped to handle.

The Chamber would like to thank Youth Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Day Chairs Maggie Cushine, Boys &

Girls Clubs of Kern County; Vin Dang, Empire Eye & Laser Center; and Danay Jones, Adventist Health Bakersfield.

A special thank you to day sponsors Adventist Health Bakersfield, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County and Dignity Health – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals.

Energy Day Students learned that Kern’s energy sector is tied to more than just oil fields. The session started off at PG&E’s Service Center off Wible Road. Students received a crash course in electrical safety, and put on gloves and hard hats to see exactly what dangerous situations linemen take on daily to keep the lights on.

At Aera Energy LLC, Aimee Blaine, the company’s senior vice president, technical, shared her inspirational story of landing her first engineering job, facing a grim cancer diagnosis and returning to her dream job after she conquered the disease.

The wide array of expertise and skill sets needed to make the local energy sector work daily was evident in a panel which featured an environmental field specialist and a business development manager from PG&E and an engineer and accountant from Aera. The panelists shared their backgrounds and advice with students on how to succeed.

The day wrapped with representatives from Western States Petroleum Association who led students through hands-on activities that gave them a better understanding of concepts like drilling for oil and making polymers.

The Chamber would like to thank Youth Leadership Bakersfield Day Chairs Tracy Lopez, PG&E; LaMeka Ross, Aera Energy LLC; and Sasha Windes, Kern Green; and Day Assistant Patricia Marquez, Legacy Family Services.

A special thank you to day sponsors Aera Energy LLC, California Resources Corporation and PG&E.

METRO | PAGE 11

ECONOMIC VITALITY

Best in

CLASS

L

ocal educators work tirelessly to ensure their students are prepared for the challenges they will face in life.

The Leadership Bakersfield class saw how local schools are shaping the next generation, and what preparations are underway to keep up with the ever-changing education standards.

In a candid panel discussion, leaders from several school districts spoke about the issues and challenges their schools are facing. Through tours, hands-on activities and discussions with students and staff, the class also visited several alternative schools, including the Bakersfield Adult School, Kelly F. Blanton Student Education Center and Claude W. Richardson Center, which are working to guarantee that all students have the access to a quality education.

Top officials from local colleges and universities also explained what the future holds for higher education, students and potential employers. Class members visited East Bakersfield High to see its AVID program.

The Chamber would like to thank Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Day Chair Brian Cortez, Kern County Superintendent of Schools. A special thanks to day sponsor Kern County Superintendent of Schools and to Golden Empire Transit District for providing the day’s transportation.

Program Underwriter

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Help shape the future of local business. SCORE provides free business consultations and workshops for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

To find out how you can get involved, call SCORE at 661-861-9249

METRO | PAGE 12

PROMOTING OUR COMMUNITY

MEMBER NEWS The Bakersfield Art Association will hold various workshops and satellite exhibits throughout March. For more information, visit bakersfieldartassociation.org.

Beladagio will host a free Catch Spring Fever decorating class on Saturday, March 10 at 10 a.m., at 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 705. Learn techniques featuring fun flowery décor.

For more information, call 661-829-2288.

The third annual Aces & Agave event will be held on Saturday, March 10, at 7 p.m., at Elements Venue, 3401 Chester Ave. There will be casino style gaming and tequila tastings. Proceeds benefit the Henrietta Weill Memorial Child Guidance Clinic. For more information, visit acesandagave.com.

Southern California Orthopedic Institute will host a free “Rising to the Next Level: Developing Athletic Skills and Understanding Injury Prevention” seminar on Thursday, March 15, from 6-8 p.m., at Bakersfield Christian High School, 12775 Stockdale Hwy. The free event will feature Dr. Mark Schamblin and Dr. Christopher Hamilton, of SCOI, and David Carr, former NFL player.

Seating is limited. To RSVP, email mortgies@scoi.com.

Taft College is accepting nominations for its hall of fame.

Nominations must be submitted by March 15. For more information and categories, visit taftcollege.edu/hall-of-fame.

California State University, Bakersfield is seeking applications for its Faculty Hall of Fame. To be eligible, a faculty member must be retired and fully separated from working at CSUB or deceased. Nominations must be submitted by March 16 at csub. libguides.com/FacultyHallofFame.

Aera Energy LLC will host Bakersfield Start Up Weekend on March 16-18 at 10000 Ming Ave. This event is the best place to learn how to build a startup in a weekend and connect with your community. Get your tickets at eventbrite.com.

Beladagio will host its My Saint My Hero St. Patrick’s Trunk Show on Saturday, March 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 705. There will be drawings and personalized stylings. For more information, call 661-829-2288.

The Autism Society – Kern Autism Network will host its next seminar on Saturday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at Adventist Health Bakersfield Medical Office Building, Rio Bravo Rooms, 1524 27th St. Autism advocate and filmmaker Alex Plank will be the guest speaker. Register at kernautism.org.

The Bakersfield City School District will hold its Teacher Job Fair on Saturday, March 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Downtown Elementary School, 2021 M St. Information will be provided about openings in the district. For more information, visit bcsd.com/humanresources.

The Kern County Superintendent of Schools will host the 18th annual Kern County Teacher Recruitment Fair. on Saturday, March 17, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the Larry E. Reider Education Center, 2000 K St. All eligible individuals are encouraged to preregister at trf.kern.org.

The Chamber's Leadership Bakersfield Team 1 is partnering with The Mission at Kern County to host the first annual Drive-Thru and Dine Fundraiser on Monday, March 19.

Come to The Mission, at 821 E. 21st St., between 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy a

chicken fajita lunch provided by Centro 18. Proceeds will benefit the Mission's Curt Kennedy Center. Limited tickets are available on eventbrite.com.

Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government will host a lunch and learn seminar on Thursday, March 22, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Temblor Brewing Co., 3200 Buck Owens Blvd. Lance Izumi will discuss the top 15 recommendations for improving education. Cost is $25. To RSVP, call 61-334-2712.

The Bakersfield Museum of Art will host its annual ARTMIX on Thursday, March 22 at 1930 R St. A Benefactor Champagne Reception begins at 5:30 p.m., and the doors will be open from 7-9 p.m. For more information, visit bmoa.org/artmix.

Discover quick and simple appetizer tips at Beladagio’s free class on entertaining in your home. The class will take place on Saturday, March 24, at 10 a.m., at 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 705. For more information, call 661-829-2288.

Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital will host a free lunch and learn seminar on Thursday, March 29, at 11:30 a.m., at 5201 White Lane. The seminar will cover how substance abuse can impact the workplace.

Lunch will be provided. Email RSVPs to ericafarmer@legacyvillagellc.com.

CASA of Kern County will host the 2018 CASA Superhero Run on Saturday, April 7, at the Park at River Walk, 11298 Stockdale Hwy. Registration begins at 7 a.m., and the races begin at 8 a.m. For more information, visit kerncasa.org.

Graduating high school seniors are encouraged to apply for the Harvey L. Hall/Hall Ambulance Medical CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 METRO | PAGE 13

MEMBER NEWS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

CALM’s Animal Keepers in the zoo’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and will learn how to care for more than 800 injured and orphaned animals that come to the facility each year.

Download applications at calmzoo.org.

The Kern County Black Chamber of Commerce will hold its 15th annual Gala and Board Installation on Friday, April 20, from 6-9 p.m., at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center, 801 Truxtun Ave. Music producer and author Matthew Knowles will be the keynote speaker. For more information or ticket pricing, email gala@kcbcc.org.

The Autism Society – Kern Autism Network will host a paint night at Colorful Strokes Art Studio on Friday, April 20, from 7-9 p.m., at 1811 Oak St., Suite 110. All paint supplies, appetizers and a beverage will be provided.

Cost is $40 per person. For more information, visit kernautism.org.

Six Flags Magic Mountain is having a private party on April 27. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.SixFlags.com/MagicMountain and enter promo code April1 (in the upper right hand corner).

Scholarship. The scholarship is open to students planning to enroll as a first year, full-time student at an accredited college or university in a medical field in the fall. Applications must be submitted by April 13, and can be downloaded at http://hallamb.com/2018-hall-medicalscholarship-application California State University, Bakersfield will offer free income tax preparation services through April 14 at the Business Development Center, Room A218, 9000 Stockdale Hwy. The services will be provided by accounting student volunteers who have gone through the necessary IRS training. To make an appointment, call 661-654-3406.

California State University, Bakersfield is seeking vendors to participate in the CSUB Fab Fest on April 7. Fab Fest is looking for wood workers, metal workers, knitters, crafters, artists and those who “make” just about anything else. To register, visit csub.edu/fabfest.

CALM will hold its Wildlife Rehabilitation Program training class on AprilSR17_7.5x4.875_Bakersfield_HalfPage_v2.pdf 7 and 14. Volunteers assist

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METRO | PAGE 14

Kegley Institute of Ethics at California State University, Bakersfield will host the 32nd annual Charles W. Kegley Memorial Lecture on Monday, April 30, at 7 p.m., at the Dore Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Hwy. Dr. Meira Levinson, a leading researcher on educational ethics, youth empowerment and civic education in K-12 schools, will be the featured speaker. For more information on this free event, visit www.csub.edu/kie.

Hall Ambulance Service, Inc. has completed an intensive 20-step process to be reaccredited as an Accredited Center of Excellence (ACE) with the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch™ (IAED®). This is Hall Ambulance's third accreditation and the company is one of 17 medical ACE agencies in the state.

The Kern Community Foundation is looking for volunteers to read and score the applications it received for its Kern Future Scholarship Program.

Volunteers are asked to donate approximately five hours over a threeweek period beginning in mid-March through early April to read and score the applications. For more information, email Joe Brown at joe@kernfoundation.org.

PROMOTING OUR COMMUNITY

RIBBON CUTTINGS

PostNet CA 187

Adventist Health Physician’s Network

CaliBurger Bakersfield

Junk Atique Outlet

6077 Coffee Road, Suite 4 www.postnet.com/ca187

5646 State Road www.caliburger.com

4909 Centennial Plaza Way www.ahbakersfield.org/ahpn

121 21st St.

MARCH RIBBON CUTTINGS GRAND OPENING Allure Aesthetics Date: Thursday, March 15 Time: Noon Location: 9450 Ming Ave., Suite C

GRAND OPENING Firehouse Subs Date: Thursday, March 29 Time: 11:30 a.m.

Location: 3700 California Ave, #300

GRAND OPENING Furniture City Date: Friday, March 30 Time: 10 a.m.

Location: 1300 Wible Road

METRO | PAGE 15

NEW MEMBERS We’d like to extend a warm welcome to the companies who have joined the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Thank you for investing in our mission to provide a healthy business climate in Kern County. If you know of a company interested in joining, please contact Andrea Johnston at ajohnston@bakersfieldchamber.org.

Adventist Health Physicians Network 4909 Centennial Plaza Way Bakersfield, CA 93312 661-241-6700 www.AHBakersfield.org/ahpn “Adventist Health Physicians Network is a group of doctors conveniently located throughout Bakersfield, with providers in family practice as well as various specialists.”

CaliBurger Bakersfield 5646 State Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93308 559-730-1116 www.caliburger.com “CaliBurger offers a new and exciting approach to the California-style burgers and fries. We use fresh, never frozen produce and ingredients to create the best product possible.”

Core Chiropractic + Wellness 9730 Brimhall Road, Suite 3 Bakersfield, CA 93312 661-410-9355 www.chiropractorbakersfield.com/ “We take an individualized approach to chiropractic care and are dedicated in providing our patients with the highest quality treatment in Bakersfield.”

Elemetrix Training PO Box 7721 New York, NY 10150 212-759-0510 https://elemetrixtraining.com “Elemetrix is a global training partner to help solve and meet your communication, operational efficiency, technical, leadership and employee development needs.”

Firehouse Subs 3700 California Ave., #300 Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-843-7100 “Founded by firemen, Firehouse Subs

generously serves the community and specializes in hot subs with premium meats and cheeses steamed on a toasted sub roll.”

Furniture City 1300 Wible Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93304 661.885.8555 “Furniture City has been established since 2004. We have thirteen locations and our No. 1 priority is to make sure our customers are always satisfied.

Furniture City makes buying furniture easy! We look forward to serving Bakersfield!”

Junk Atique Outlet 121 21st St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-565-3470 “A thrift store with a global purpose.”

Rival Technology, Inc. 13061 Rosedale Hwy., Ste. G PMB 241 Bakersfield, CA 93314 661-368-1199 https://www.rivaltech.com “We offer services from basic IT consulting, email/spam filtering, backups, network design, managed services and VAR. Our experience includes agriculture, medical, oil, law and more.”

Rivers of Living Water Bakersfield 2201 Alta Vista Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93305 661-432-7570 www.rolwbakersfield.com “ROLW’s mission is to prepare Christians for ministry. We teach and involve them in the Work (Bible) so they will become fully equipped to respond to those they are ministering to with skillful implementation of the Word.”

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METRO | PAGE 16

Spanish Radio Group KIWI/KPSL/KCHJ/KWAK 5100 Commerce Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-327-9711 www.radiolobo.com “Spanish Radio Group serves Bakersfield and the surrounding areas.

We target listeners with four different music stations, including Mexican Regional, Spanish Adult Hits, Mexican Oldies/Ranchera & ESPN Deportes.”

The BLVD 3200 Buck Owens Blvd.

Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-873-4477 www.blvdbakersfield.com “We are a new restaurant and entertainment venue set to open in April 2018. We will have bowling, bocce, laser tag, a rope course, three bars, a beer garden, a full restaurant and private event space.”

Tractor Supply Co. 6710 Colony St. Bakersfield, CA 93307 661-396-9636 www.mytscstore.com “Tractor Supply provides a one-stop shop for the community, serving farmers, livestock and pet owners, ranchers, part-time and hobby farmers and others. Customers will be able to choose from a wide range of products from top brands.”

Williams Adams & Company, CPAs 5558 California Ave., Ste. 208 Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-633-9122 www.williamsadams.com “We are a local CPA firm offering tax planning and preparation, financial statements, audits, reviews and compilations, full-charge bookkeeping,

Best Price, Best Selection, Best Service

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 ensure a healthy business climate for our community.

MARCH 2018 3.9.18

Government Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Chamber

3.12.18

Youth Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Council 11:45 a.m. | Chamber

3.13.18 Beautiful Bakersfield Committee Noon | Chamber

3.15.18 Labor Law & HR Forum 7:30 a.m. | Chamber

3.16.18

Government Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Dark

3.22.18

Chamber After Hours Mixer 5:30 p.m. | Southern California Orthopedic Institute

3.23.18

Government Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Chamber

3.27.18

Ambassador Committee Noon | Chamber

3.30.18

Government Review Council 7:30 a.m. | Dark For more information about any of our events, committees or councils, visit bakersfieldchamber.org.

Bakersfield Christian High School – 1999 Bakersfield Drug Testing – 2007 Bakersfield Museum of Art – 1996 Bella at the Marketplace – 2000 Bolthouse Farms, Inc. – 1995 Brightwood College – 2004 Brooklyn’s BBQ – 2016 Brown Armstrong Accountants – 1985 Business and Entrepreneurship Center – 1991 California Resources Corporation – 1970 Casa Royal Banquet Hall – 2016 Castle & Cooke California, Inc. – 1988 Centre For Neuro Skills – 1999 Common Sense Consulting – 2010 Coseree’s Deli at Rio Bravo Ranch – 2015 CSF Medical Nonprofit Foundation – 2017 Cushman & Wakefield/Pacific – 1991 Danny G. Dane, Tax & Financial Services – 1992 Daniells Phillips Vaughan & Bock – 1956 Dionysus Brewing – 2016 Don Hall Jewelers – 2017 Doughty-Calhoun-O’Meara Funeral Directors – 1929 Eagle Mountain Casino – 2004 Family Motors Auto Body & Paint, Inc. – 2005 Frito-Lay, Inc. – 1995 Functional Ergonomics, Inc. – 2008 GEMCare – 1993 Jack Gotcher – 2013 Guarantee Shoe Center – 1986 Heart of Nature (NV), LLC – 2011 Hodel’s Country Dining – 1986 IKEA Distribution Services, Inc. – 2010 IN GOD WE TRUST-AMERICA, INC. – 2013 KHSD – Regional Occupational Center – 2014 Lee’s Clinical Pharmacy – 2006

M & S Security Services, Inc. – 2011 Macpherson Oil Company – 2017 Courtyard by Marriott Hotel – 1997 Merrill Lynch – Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. – 1978 Minuteman Press – 1991 Mission Linen & Uniform Service – 1940 Neira’s Collision Centers Inc. – Meany Ave. – 2014 OneLegacy – 2015 Placer Title Company – 2008 Beckie Diltz/Proforma Solutions for Printing – 2010 Project Clean Air, Inc. – 2017 Pyrenees French Bakery, Inc. – 1958 Rain for Rent – 1992 Rio Acai Bowls – 2015 Riverstone Capital LLC – 2017 Robert Half International – 2003 Robert Heely Construction, LP – 2014 Sage Equities – 2016 San Joaquin Valley College – 1984 Seven Oaks Country Club – 1991 Shine Bright Solar Plus – 2017 Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor – 2017 Sleep Number – 2014 SpringHill Suites by Marriott – 2014 State Farm – Keith Stonebraker Insurance Agency, Inc. – 2004 Sun World International, LLC – 1978 Gene Tackett Consulting Services – 1986 Tel-Tec Security Systems, Inc. – 1983 The Village at Seven Oaks – 2015 Trek Imaging – 2002 Valley Republic Bank – 2009 Walters & Associates – 2003 Watson Realty ERA – 1981 Wells Fargo Bank – Kern County District – 1981 Westec – 2011 Wholesale Fuels – 1987 The Wonderful Company – 1994 Wood & Randall – 2004

NEW MEMBERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

business consulting and support with litigation, mergers and acquisitions.”

Zen Spa 4715 Coffee Rd., #C Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-337-0606 http://www.zenspabakersfield.com "Zen Spa has been serving the community since 2010. We offer different kinds of therapeutic massages where pressure becomes pleasure."

DID YOU KNOW? A complete list of the Chamber's membership can be found on our online business directory. Visit bakersfieldchamber.org to check it out!

METRO | PAGE 17

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE FOCUS

2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairwoman of the Board Carla Musser Chevron Chairwoman Elect of the Board Darlene Mohlke Castle & Cooke California, Inc. Vice Chair Public Policy & Political Action Don Bynum Temblor Brewing LLC Gregory D. Bynum & Associates, Inc. Vice Chair Economic Vitality Susan M. Benham Dignity Health Memorial Hospital Vice Chair Member Engagement Tasha Clayton Tel-Tec Security Systems, Inc. Vice Chair Leadership & Workforce Development Paul Anderson BetterPlan, LLC Treasurer Andy Paulden Brown Armstrong Accountants Member-at-Large Pritesh Patel Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center Immediate Past Chair Derek Abbott Tejon Ranch Company General Counsel Mark Bateman LeBeau-Thelen LLP Dan Klingenberger LeBeau-Thelen LLP

Valley Children’s Healthcare – one of the largest pediatric healthcare networks in the nation – provides Central California’s only high-quality, comprehensive care exclusively for children, from before birth to young adulthood.

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE MEMBERS

BOARD MEMBERS

Mary Barlow Kern County Superintendent of Schools Kristen Beall Kern Community Foundation Dr. Sonya Christian Bakersfield College Rob Duchow Southern California Gas Company Leslie Golich Kaiser Permanente Kern County Derek Jeffery KGET-TV 17 Ronald Johns RA Johnsfam dba McDonald’s Denise Newton Pacific Gas & Electric Company G Riar Deprigo Tom Saba Saba Agency Ricardo Villarreal Wells Fargo

EVERYTHING FOR YOUR OFFICE

CHAMBER STAFF Nick Ortiz | President/CEO Jean Scheiber | Director of Administration

& Operations Patrice Black | Member Relations Coordinator Hillary Haenes | Member Programs &

Engagement Manager Andrea Johnston | Business Development

Manager Melissa Rossiter | Manager of Marketing &

Communications Sarah Hinzo | Executive Assistant,

Leadership & Operations Janet Ursery | Executive Assistant,

Information Services

METRO | PAGE 18

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