Charting the Course Through Her Eyes
Brought
Remember how much fun summer vacations were as a kid? Summers are still like that at the Parkshire Pool & Pavilion in Highgate at Seven Oaks. And although you may not be a kid anymore, you can still enjoy living in a community where life feels like a vacation every day.
Located within gated Highgate Park and Highgate Place, the lush green lawns, pickle ball courts, children's playground, giant fire pit, and BBQ facilities of the Parkshire Pool & Pavilion make it easy to live your best life ever!
INSIDE On the
Read a message from our President/CEO, Janelle Capra
Discover key moments from Leadership Bakersfield’s Ag Day
Revisit
Meet the women driving change and impact in our community
Welcome our new Chamber members
Sheryl BarbichPhotos taken at the Kern County Museum.
Celebrate the grand openings of local businesses
Find out what our members are doing in the community
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 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.
Message from the CEO
Dear Members,
Spring is a time of renewal and fresh opportunities, and there’s no better place to experience that energy than right here in Bakersfield! Our city is buzzing with excitement, businesses are thriving, connections are growing, and our Chamber is looking forward to celebrating with you at the 35th Annual Beautiful Bakersfield Awards on June 14 at the newly re-named, Dignity Health Theater & Convention Center. Stay tuned for more information on the nominees and tickets.
Looking back at this month, I am so inspired by so many amazing stories as we celebrated Women's History Month. The Chamber highlighted five exceptional leaders who have helped us build something better for Bakersfield and beyond. In this edition of Metro, you’ll read about these incredible women, including our cover feature, Sheryl Barbich. Her leadership extends across numerous organizations, including serving as past Chair for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, the CSU Bakersfield Foundation, the Memorial Hospital Foundation, and the Rotary Club of Downtown Bakersfield. Through Barbich Consulting, her influence continues to leave a lasting impact on countless businesses and organizations.
We held our first quarterly "Coffee with the Chamber" sponsored by Bank of America. Attendees connected over fresh coffee, gained valuable insights into how we champion local businesses and explored the exclusive benefits of Chamber membership. A special thank you to Bank of America Senior Vice President, Diandra Ko, for sharing insights about the Center for Business Empowerment, and to our coffee bar sponsor, Ivy Park at Seven Oaks, for keeping us fueled!
The Bakersfield Young Professionals (BYP) hosted a “Styled for Success” at drybar Bakersfield, and what a fabulous night it was! A huge thank you to our incredible event partner, Mira Patel, and to everyone who joined us. If
you're interested in partnering or sponsoring a BYP event, contact Joel Paramo at jparamo@ bakochamber.com
Looking ahead, we invite you to join Young Wooldridge's Jerry Pearson at our upcoming Labor Law and HR Forum, where he will share essential insights on managing leaves of absence, the interactive process, and reasonable accommodations. This session will cover legal obligations under FMLA, ADA, and state-specific leave laws, best practices for managing different types of leave, how to engage in the interactive process to identify reasonable accommodations, and compliance strategies to mitigate legal risks. The forum will take place on Thursday, April 10, from 8-10 a.m. Please email Lorrie Guinn-Magers at lguinn@ bakochamber.com, if you’d like to join us!
We are also thrilled to announce that after four years, the Kern County Economic Summit is back in person! Join top economists and business leaders as they provide insights on international, national, and regional economies, offering strategies to sustain and advance economic prosperity in our growing region. The summit will be held on Thursday, May 1, at the CSUB Student Recreation Center Gymnasium. This event is presented by Kern EDC, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, and California State University, Bakersfield and tickets will go on sale soon!
Here’s to another exciting season of growth and opportunity!
Blessings,
Janelle Capra President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber
BACK IN PERSON
California State University, Bakersfield
DISCOVER WAYS TO SUSTAIN & ADVANCE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY IN OUR GROWING REGION
Presented by:
Exploring Kern County’s Agricultural Backbone Ag Day
Leadership Bakersfield’s Agriculture Day Highlights Water Management, Crop Diversity, and Innovation
Leadership Bakersfield’s Agriculture Day provided an insightful tour into the world of agriculture in Kern County, showcasing the critical role of water management, farming practices, and nursery operations in sustaining the region’s economy.
The day began at the Arvin Edison Water Storage District (AEWSD), where General Superintendent David Zarazoga shared the district’s history and provided a comprehensive overview of California’s water system. AEWSD is a key water management agency in the San Joaquin Valley, established to provide reliable water supply to local agricultural producers through efficient water use and storage. The district oversees the distribution of water from various sources, including surface water and groundwater, to support irrigation needs across the region. AEWSD plays a crucial role in ensuring water sustainability for farming operations while addressing the challenges posed by California’s fluctuating water availability. Its efforts are vital to the agricultural community, ensuring water is used effectively to support the local economy and food production.
Next, the group visited Murray Family Farms, where owner Steve Murray showcased the diverse range
of crops grown on their family farm. Participants had the opportunity to tour the farm, pick and taste fresh citrus, and gain firsthand insights into sustainable farming practices. During this visit, Kern County’s Agricultural Commissioner, Glenn Fankhauser, discussed the essential role of his office in supporting local agriculture. The Kern County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office enforces laws and regulations related to pest and disease control, food safety, and environmental protection, ensuring the integrity and sustainability of the region’s agricultural industry.
The final stop of the day was at Sunridge Nurseries, where Vice President of Operations Adam Lovgren led a tour of their facility. Since 1977, Sunridge Nurseries has been a leader in the grapevine industry, providing premium-quality grapevines to growers. The nursery plays a vital role in California’s viticulture industry by supplying expertly cultivated rootstock and grafted vines essential for vineyards across the region. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Sunridge Nurseries supports the agricultural community by improving crop yields and maintaining plant health.
The day offered a rich learning experience, covering essential aspects of water management, crop diversity, and agricultural innovation—key elements that drive Kern County’s thriving agricultural industry.
Advisory Council Day Chairs
Ariana Joven, The Wonderful Company
Rachel Nettleton, Kern County Farm Bureau
Program Underwriter
Day Sponsors
2024 Beautiful Bakersfield Award
Recipient – Bakersfield Angels
In a city full of nonprofits doing amazing work on so many fronts, we were surprised to even be nominated in the Large Nonprofit of the Year category. After all, we’re only 4 years old! When we heard our name called as the winner, we were blown away. There were so many people and organizations in attendance with whom we’ve partnered––a number of them winners in other categories. Looking around the room of 640 people celebrating businesses, organizations, and individuals effecting positive change in our community, we were grateful and humbled to be counted among them.
We have 2,000 children and youth in Kern County experiencing foster care, facing overwhelming odds. Only 50% will graduate from high school. On average, they will move seven times while in care. Within 2-4 years of aging out, 25% will experience homelessness—making up half of our homeless population. And the challenges don’t stop there. But here’s the hope: in less than four years, we have walked alongside and radically supported 302 of these young lives through our Love Box and Dare to Dream programs, and we won’t stop until every child is reached. We believe our volunteers are transforming the foster care experience for these kids, and in just 10 years, we will rewrite the statistics. We will redefine what’s possible. In order for Bakersfield to be truly beautiful we need to be known as a community that prioritizes the lost, the last, and the least, NOT the found, the first, and the famous. The good news is that when you change a child’s life, you change a city’s future. And the change starts with YOU!"
Shelby Cathey, M.S.W Program Development Director
Saturday, June 14
Dignity Health Theater & Convention Center
presented by
Stepping Up with Sheryl Barbich
by Joel Paramo
In honor of Women’s History Month, we sat down with Sheryl to hear about her journey, the principles that have guided her, and her advice for the next generation of leaders.
A Trailblazer in Leadership
Barbich has spent decades shaping the future of Bakersfield through visionary leadership, relentless advocacy, and a commitment to community improvement. From breaking barriers as the first female member of the Downtown Rotary Club to chairing major initiatives like the Vision 2020 plan with the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, Barbich's influence is deeply woven into the city’s fabric.
“It’s not the leader telling us what we’re going to do. It’s the leader getting consensus, talking about how we’re going to get there.”
At a time when women struggled to gain access to leadership roles, Barbich didn’t just find a seat at the table, she built new ones. She recalls that when she joined the Chamber, women functioned with the Chamber through a separate Women’s Division, “I was like, really? So finally, they got over that, but I mean, but I played the part and then continued my support of the Chamber through a lot of different ways.”
Her role in the Vision 2020 plan, one of her proudest achievements, exemplifies this philosophy. Designed to be a
roadmap for economic and community growth, the initiative rallied local leaders, businesses, and residents to identify priorities for the city’s development. “That was so inclusive,” Barbich recalls smiling. “It involved so many people in the community and resulted in something that had follow-through, things actually got done.”
As a strategic consultant, she has helped guide organizations in leadership development and planning, but she never positioned herself as the voice of authority. Instead, she invited others to envision a collective future. “It’s not the leader telling us what we’re going to do,” she says. “It’s the leader getting consensus, talking about how we’re going to get there.”
Beyond the Chamber, Barbich has led numerous organizations, serving as chairman of the Kern County Museum, the CSUB Foundation, and the John Brock Community Service Award.
Breaking Barriers
One of Barbich’s most defining moments came in 1989 when she became the first female member of the Downtown Rotary Club. At the time, Rotary was a domain dominated by men. “It was only old guys,” she says with a laugh. “Now, there are still a lot of old guys, but I was proud to be the first woman.”
She later became the club’s first female president in 1998 and has remained an active member ever since.
Her trailblazing spirit is also evident in the Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference, which she co-founded alongside other influential women. “We weren’t sure if it would work,” she remembers. “But we said, ‘We can do this.’”
A seasoned public speaker, Barbich has addressed audiences on topics such as leadership, resilience, and moving up in a male-dominated world. One of her most memorable speeches? “It was called ‘Moving Up, and It’s Still a Man’s World,’” she says. “That was a really good one.”
A Life of Service
Even after decades of leadership, Barbich remains as active as ever. She continues to serve as the chairman of the Kern County Museum, where she is championing the “Get Lit” event on May 2, celebrating the museum’s collection of 30 fully restored neon signs. “There’ll be music, food—it’s going to be a great night,” she says.
Barbich has also been a steadfast supporter of the Women and Girls Fund through the Kern Community Foundation, an initiative aimed at empowering local women. “Philanthropy offers so many opportunities for women to step up into leadership roles,” she says.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Over the years, Barbich has found herself both inspiring and being inspired by the people around her. “It’s amazing who supports you and the extent they’ll go to help you do something they think you want to do,” she reflects. “But truly, my mom and my husband are really the two who most inspired me, that I could do or become whatever I wanted to be.”
For those looking to follow in her footsteps, her advice is simple: “I think you need to be open to opportunities, but don't think that you don't know how to do it, that you haven't been trained to do that. Of course, you can learn. If it's something you like, you'll work overtime.”
“What do you think Greater Bakersfield could be?” she asks. She has spent her life helping answer that question. Now, it’s up to the next generation to carry the vision forward.
Honoring Women Leaders in the Greater Bakersfield Region
In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber is proud to spotlight extraordinary women who are shaping our community through leadership, innovation, and service. These trailblazers have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also paved the way for future generations of women in business. Join us as we recognize their remarkable contributions and share their inspiring journeys.
Darlene Mohlke is a dynamic leader whose career has been shaped by mentorship, community giving, and relentless drive. Her passion for business and commitment to making a difference have left a lasting impact on the Greater Bakersfield region.
IN HER WORDS:
“The Chamber has played a vital role in both my career and my networking opportunities as I entered the workforce. My first experience was through the Leadership program, which exposed me to all areas of commerce flourishing in our region and allowed me to meet a diverse group of robust leaders with varying styles. It was during this time that I was inspired to focus on my career while also identifying the area of community giving I wanted to participate in. I saw in the leadership of Chris Frank at the Chamber a powerful, bright leader who listened, created exposure, and, most importantly, fostered collaboration.”
HER ADVICE FOR WOMEN:
“Be the best in your field. If you’re not there yet, seek mentorship, gain the tools, and never stop learning. Success is determined by your drive.”
Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Castle & Cooke, Inc.
HER FAVORITE QUOTE:
“Work for a cause, not for applause. Live life to inspire, not impress.”
Darlene Mohlke
Karen Zuber is a dedicated leader who embodies the spirit of economic growth and community empowerment. She is passionate about bridging the gap between nonprofit partners and underresourced communities, fostering collaboration and support where it’s needed most.
Karen Zuber
IN HER WORDS:
“The Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce and Bank of America have been partners for over 100 years. Both organizations know that business owners are truly the heartbeat of the economy. Your commitment to advocating and creating strong support for business owners has provided a powerful impact on all aspects of our community. Every business you have supported has helped grow the economy and helped to create jobs, which in turn has helped families to thrive. A thriving community helps existing businesses to grow and to be able to give back in the communities. The impact of the GBCC is far-reaching and has helped Bank of America to live our purpose.”
Co-Founder & Executive Director, KRV Bridge Connection President of Bakersfield & Local Market Executive, Bank of America
HER FAVORITE QUOTE:
“Everyone has a personal brand—by design or by default.” – Lida Citroen
HER ADVICE FOR WOMEN:
“What will you be known for? Build your personal brand. We can’t be the best version of ourselves if we are trying to be like everyone else. Find your passion and do it to your heart's content.”
Priyanka Saha, owner of Little Guide, has immersed herself in the Bakersfield community, using her business expertise to champion small and medium-sized businesses. Through her work, she has created a powerful resource for discovering hidden gems in our city, helping local businesses thrive one guide at a time.
IN HER WORDS:
“Through the Chamber, I’ve connected with so many amazing people who believe in the power of community. The support and encouragement I’ve received have helped me grow Little Guide Bakersfield into something truly special. It’s more than just a business; it’s a way for me to give back to our community. The Chamber has given me the confidence to keep going, even when things are tough, and to keep sharing the stories of local businesses that make Bakersfield unique.”
HER ADVICE FOR WOMEN:
“Believe in yourself and trust your journey, even when the path isn’t clear. Life will challenge you, but your strength and resilience are your greatest assets. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and always be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and understand the importance of your dreams.”
Owner, Little Guide
HER FAVORITE QUOTE:
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” –Eleanor Roosevelt
Priyanka Saha
Cathy Butler has been the heart and soul of the Downtown Business Association (DBA) for 50 years, shaping the future of Bakersfield’s downtown with unwavering dedication. A mentor, leader, and fierce advocate for local businesses, Cathy’s passion has transformed our city in ways that will leave a lasting legacy.
Cathy Butler
Director of Public Relations, Downtown Business Association (DBA)
HER FAVORITE QUOTE:
“Life is hard by the yard... but a cinch by the inch!” – My husband
IN HER WORDS:
“Teamwork is everything! With the Greater Bakersfield Chamber rooted in the heart of downtown, it strengthens the very heartbeat of our community. Their commitment, alongside the DBA, has created new opportunities to uplift businesses and foster a thriving downtown.”
HER ADVICE FOR WOMEN:
“Do what you love and surround yourself with those who believe in your vision. The right support team will lift you up, encourage you, and help turn your dreams into reality.”
Thank You,
Darlene, for your leadership and for continuing to inspire women in business!
Karen, for leading with purpose and creating opportunities for women in business to thrive!
Priyanka, for your passion and perseverance and for uplifting our community one business at a time!
Cathy, for leading with vision and creating opportunities that empower women in business to succeed!
THE CHAMBER
Promote • Educate • Represent • Kindle
The Chamber PERK is Bakersfield’s new gathering place to celebrate our members, promote community initiatives, and show the world what makes Bakersfield exceptional—one conversation at a time. Want to appear in an upcoming episode?
Email info@bakochamber.com, with subject line: "Chamber PERK"!
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.
ALKON
8200 Stockdale Hwy. #368
Bakersfield, CA 93311 (419) 333-7000 ext. 1200 alkoncorp.com
“Delivering Performance, Durability and Innovation. Alkon is a prominent manufacturer in North America, specializing in pneumatic and hydraulic components designed for both industrial and mobile markets. Our product range encompasses fittings, valves, cylinders, pumps, and lift jacks.”
Barron Air Conditioning & Heating
7017 Azalea Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93306 (661) 747-3367
“We are a licensed C-20 HVAC company by the state of California that focuses on residential and commercial properties.”
Expert Celebrity Branding (310) 741-1583 ruthklein.com
“Work With Me! I tailor each of my entrepreneurial and author client’s road to success based on a creative and relevant brand, personality-based marketing strategies and client benefits.”
Kern Down Syndrome Network PO Box 1022
Bakersfield, CA 93302 (661) 703-4482 kerndsn.org
“Kern Down Syndrome Network (KDSN) supports individuals with Down syndrome and their families through resources, education, and inclusive programs that foster connection and community.”
Landscape Development, Inc. 7415 Meany Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 607-2696
landscapedevelopment.com
“We are a landscape construction company, which also offers design, maintenance and tree care. We have 1,500 employees throughout California and Nevada.”
Magallons Roofing
23205 Clayton Reedley, CA 93654 (559) 356-4763 magallonsroofing.com
“When you choose us, you’re choosing a team with patience, dedication, and experience in providing quality roofing solutions. Our services span from roof repair and restoration to skylights and solar tubes installation. We also provide financing options so you can find the payment options that work best for your budget! Please, contact our team for a no-obligation estimate.”
MES Coaching
10706 Petty Court
Bakersfield, CA 93306 (661) 808-1464
“Working on starting two businesses: life coaching/peer counseling; and candle-making workshops.”
Moo Creamery
4885 Truxtun Ave. Suite B Bakersfield, CA 93390 (310) 709-9829
moocreamery.com
“We source our quality ingredients from the best producers, farms + ranchers to bring fresh flavors to every handmade dish. Our craft dine-in + catering menus star hand-ground grass-fed burgers, fresh salads, moomade ice cream, craft beers, cocktails + fresh coldpressed juices.”
Specialized Confidential Services, Investigations
PO Box 78211
Bakersfield, CA 93383 (661) 247-7875
wc-scs.com
“Full spectrum investigations, Security Consultant, CA State Assembly Bill Course Instruction for Active Shooter, Lockdowns, Situational Awareness, Armed Driver for Domestic Violence Court hearings.”
Taste Africa, LLC
11501 Zancara Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 472-4935
tasteafrica.com
“ Work With Me! I tailor each of my entrepreneurial and a Taste Africa, LLC is a company dedicated to bringing the rich and diverse flavors of West African cuisine to a global audience in the form of frozen meals. Specializing in high-quality, authentic West African food products, Taste Africa offers a range of ready-to-eat meals and Hot Chili Purees that capture the essence of traditional African cooking. The company emphasizes local ingredients and traditional recipes, aiming to provide a genuine taste of Africa while promoting cultural appreciation and culinary diversity.”
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.
AES - 2015
American Mechanical Systems - 2023
An Idea Girl Advertising Agency - 2024
Andrea R Hill, CPA, AAC - 2017
Aunt Mae's Sweet Tooth - 2020
Bakersfield Cash Register - 1976
Bakersfield Christian High School - 1999
Bakersfield College - 1974
Bakersfield Drug Testing - 2007
Bakersfield Family Medical Center - 1983
Bank of the Sierra - California Ave. - 2017
Bakersfield Racquet Club - 1996
Bank of the Sierra - California Ave. - 2017
Brown Armstrong Certified Public Accountants - 1985
Common Sense Consulting - 2010
Cushman & Wakefield/Pacific - 1991
Daniells Phillips Vaughan & Bock - 1956
Empire Eye and Laser Center - 2007
Hall Ambulance Service, Inc. - 1984
Hall Letter Shop Inc. - 1990
Inland Empire Job Corps Center - 2012
J. Noble Binns Plumbing Co., Inc. - 2021
Jim Burke Ford Lincoln - 1951
KBAK-TV / KBFX-TV - 1953
Law Offices of Robert H. Brumfield, PC - 2010
LuckyBK LLC DBA Toastique - 2024
Mom's House Chicken & Waffles and More - 2021
North of the River Recreation & Park District - 2013
Pilates Barre - 2024
Placer Title Company - 2008
Rainbow Int. Restoration of Bakersfield - 2018
Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers - Coffee Rd. - 2019
Rev Renewables - 2022
S.A. Camp Companies, Investments - 2003
Sip & Style Salon - 2022
Snelling Staffing Services - 2008
Taft College Foundation - 2008
Tejon Indian Tribe - 2012
Tel-Tec Security Systems, Inc. - 1983
The Motherhood Project - 2023
Tolman & Wiker Insurance an AssuredPartners CA Agency - 2003
Wallace & Smith Contractors, Inc. - 1963
WattEV Inc - 2022
Westec - 2011
WOW Pest Control - 2017
Yankee Communications, Inc. - 2013
Young Wooldridge LLP - 1993
UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS
California Cardiovascular Institute
Date: Wednesday, April 2
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Location: 8337 Brimhall Rd., Building 1200, Bakersfield, CA 93312
You are invited to join us in celebrating the grand opening of California Cardiovascular Institute. At California Cardiovascular Institute in Bakersfield, CA, their experienced team provides compassionate, high-quality cardiac and vascular care. They offer individualized treatment for heart disease, circulatory disorders, and conditions like chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
Please RSVP at the link below to confirm your attendance.
BSK Associates
Date: Thursday, April 3
Time: 10:30 p.m.
Location: 4820 Rosedale Lane, Bakersfield, CA 93314
You are invited to join us in celebrating the grand opening of BSK Associates. BSK Associates is a 100% employee-owned engineering, sciences, and construction services provider. They offer consulting engineering and analytical testing for projects of all sizes in both natural and built environments.
Please RSVP at the link below to confirm your attendance.
For more information or to schedule a ribbon cutting, please contact us at info@bakochamber.com.
Upcoming Events
April 2025
Tuesday, April 1
Government Review Council Meeting
Noon | Chamber
Thursday, April 10
Labor Law & HR Forum
8-10 a.m. | Chamber
Friday, April 18
Good Friday Chamber closed
Thursday, April 24
Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference Chamber closed
Friday, April 25
Government Review Council Meeting
8 a.m. | Chamber
Friday, April 25
Bakersfield Young Professionals Meeting
9 a.m. | Chamber
Member News
Les Schwab: Tires for Purpose awards local nonprofits that are making positive impacts in our communities with a set of free tires for their organization’s vehicle. It’s a meaningful way Les Schwab helps local organizations stay on the road to do moregood.If you are interested please visit the website and apply:http://lesschwab.com/ tiresforpurpose
Golden Empire Transit District: BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ AT-LARGE VACANCY—The Board of Directors of Golden Empire Transit District is accepting applications for the At-Large Director position. Applications can be obtained on the GET website at www.getbus.org or by contacting Golden Empire Transit District’s Administration Office at 1830 Golden State Avenue, Bakersfield, CA. 93301 or by calling (661) 869-6307.
The deadline for submission of applications is Thursday, March 27, 2025.
For more information, please contact Jill Smith, Clerk of the board at (661) 869-6307 or jsmith@getbus.org
Lamar Advertising: WE ARE HIRING! Are you a person in sales? Are you a person who enjoys working with businesses to improve their marketing strategies? Would you like the opportunity of essentially unlimited earning potential? Then I encourage you to apply for Lamar's Account Executive position in Bakersfield!
Founded in 1902, Lamar Advertising Company (Nasdaq: LAMR) is one of the largest outdoor advertising companies in the world with over 360,000 displays across the United States and Canada. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just getting started in your career, come explore your options and discover how your skills and aspirations align with ours. Click here to apply!
ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness: ROWI Teen is a dedicated mental wellness center offering specialized programs to support teens facing challenges like anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and other mental health disorders. Programs include Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and After School Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) designed to help teens who may be struggling due to mental health issues. More info here: rowiteen.com/locations/bakersfield If you have any further questions, please feel free to email or you can contact the program director at 805-426-7027 x 10286
Advanced Data Storage Inc. has added a new division. We now have a full service Scanning division. Visit ADS Website to request a quote!
CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chair of the Board
Deanna Blaise, Valley Strong Credit Union
Chair Elect of the Board
Dr. Vernon Harper, CSU, Bakersfield
Immediate Past Chair
Rob Duchow, SoCal Gas Company
Treasurer
Emily Duran, Kern Health Systems
Vice Chair, Public Policy & Political Action
Willie Rivera, Berry Corporation
Vice Chair, Economic Vitality
Octavio Escobedo III, Tejon Indian Tribe
Vice Chair, Leadership & Workforce Development
Ken Keller, Dignity Health - Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Vice Chair, Member Engagement
Veronika Placencia, KERO TV-23
General Council
Mark Bateman, Young Wooldridge LLP
Anibal Araya, CRC
Lindsay Barnes, KGET TV-17
Angela Barton, Barton Marketing Group
Patrick Beck, Bakersfield Hyundai
Nik Boone, Ascend Real Estate
Molly Busacca, Secure Systems
Lisa Carbajal, Cen Cal Business Finance Group
Melissa Frank, The Wonderful Company
Kamal Gill, Brimhall Pharmacy & Panama Pharmacy
Cherif Guirguis, LinQRide
DeAnna Lewis, Wingstop
Maybelle Liquigan, Kaiser Permanente
Jessica Pounds, Moo Creamery
Greg Race, Pacific Gas & Electric Company
Austin Smith, Sage Equities
Erin Tenter, Bolthouse Properties
Raju Verma, RAMM Hospitality
Sherod Waite, Moneywise Wealth Management
CHAMBER STAFF
Janelle Capra
President & CEO
Kami Gonzalez
Vice President, Members & Programs
Joel Paramo
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
Savanah Adams
Senior Manager, Policy & Public Affairs
Lorrie Guinn-Magers
Director of Operations & HR
Kimberly Price
Community Events Manager
Get Social
Stay engaged and connected with what's happening at the Chamber by following us on these social media platforms.
California Resources Corporation (CRC), is an independent energy and carbon management company dedicated to providing local, responsibly produced energy while promoting environmental stewardship. CRC focuses on maximizing land and mineral value by developing carbon capture and storage and other emissions reduction projects. Their mission is to create long-term investment value through safe energy development and carbon management. CRC’s vision is to lead the energy transition by offering sustainable energy and carbon solutions. With a vision to lead the energy transition, CRC emphasizes integrity, high safety and environmental standards, and respect for community interests.
Learn more at crc.com
MAJOR INVESTORS
CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS
