

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!
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Metro is the official publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. This publication is produced and digitally distributed to the Chamber’s membership at the beginning of each month. Every effort has been made to ensure the information in this publication is correct and accurate as of the publication date. Metro does not warrant the accuracy or claims of its advertisers. The Chamber President/CEO has the sole right to refuse any advertisement. Please send any comments, questions, article suggestions or advertising inquiries to info@bakochamber.com © Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.
Chamber Members,
This month was energizing for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber community! Thank you to each of you who joined us, participated, and helped make our community events and initiatives a success.
We kicked off the month with our latest Labor Law & HR Forum, led by Jerry Pearson of Young Wooldridge LLP. Jerry provided valuable guidance on managing Leaves of Absence, the interactive process, and reasonable accommodations under FMLA, ADA, and California-specific laws. If you missed it, don’t worry, more forums are coming soon. Reach out to lguinn@bakochamber.com to learn how you can attend the next one.
In partnership with Valley Strong Credit Union, we hosted a packed business mixer. With delicious bites from Chef Lino and a room full of new connections, the evening was a celebration of community and purpose. We were especially inspired by 10-year-old Patrick Zubiran, founder of Patrick’s Pantry, whose heart for giving touched us all. Thanks to Valley Strong’s generous $1,000 donation and all of you who donated to our raffles, Patrick’s mission to fight food insecurity will continue to thrive. Now that’s how to “Grow Your Possibilities” for the betterment of our community!
We also had the honor of welcoming U.S. Representative David Valadao for a special roundtable discussion hosted at Lino’s Venue. Business leaders discussed the critical need to extend key pro-growth tax provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to prevent a historic tax increase set for the end of 2025. Thank you to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for partnering with us on this important conversation.
Our Ambassador Committee had a lively April meeting, energized by our Shine Sponsor, the Bakersfield Condors, and Serve Sponsor, Chick-fil-A . We were thrilled to welcome bestselling author and branding expert Ruth
Klein, who shared incredible insights on marketing, thought leadership, and building impactful brands. As we look to May, we’re excited to continue celebrating ribbon cuttings and launching community fundraising initiatives like Give Big Kern. Our next Ambassador meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, we hope to see you there!
Even more exciting, tomorrow, May 1 marks the return of the Kern County Economic Summit in person for the first time since 2020. We’ll welcome top economists and business leaders to explore strategies for advancing prosperity in our region. Our business community will gain valuable insights and network with regional industry experts.
Members, please plan to join us for our next Government Review Council meeting on Tuesday, May 6 at noon. We’ll be joined by City Manager Christian Clegg, who will discuss the recently proposed sewer tax rate increase. While the proposal has now been rescinded, there is still much work ahead and important questions that need answers. Your voice matters and we encourage you to attend and engage in this vital discussion. Members can click here to RSVP for a complimentary lunch. Finally, don’t forget: Tickets for the 2025 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards are on sale now! Join us for "A Night at the MET" on Saturday, June 14, and celebrate the people and organizations who make Bakersfield beautiful. Early bird pricing is available until Friday, May 2. Text BBA to 366283 to purchase your tickets, or click here, before prices increase!
As always, thank you for being part of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber family. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected, and more vibrant Bakersfield.
Blessings,
Janelle Capra President & CEO Greater Bakersfield 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"!
The Leadership Bakersfield class of 2025 experienced “Education Day” in April. This day was sponsored by the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) and the Grimm Family Education Foundation (GFEF). This opportunity allowed every participant to learn about cradle-to-career programs and beyond. The day started with breakfast at the Christine Lizardi Student Service Center and a panel of interactive speakers from KCSOS: Dr. Kierstin Webb sharing about Kern Education Pledge and K-16 Education Collaborative, Stephanie Baltazar from College and Career Programs and Curt Williams from the Homeless and Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program to kick off the day.
The class then visited various school sites throughout Kern, where they experienced how schools work to meet the needs of all students in unique ways. First up was the C. W. Richardson Child Development Center. The center provides a variety of educational supports and services for children from 3-5 years of age. Direct services are provided to high-risk infants and toddlers, preschool-aged children with special needs, and full-day child development services for students from families that meet program eligibility requirements. Principal Judith Noack kicked off the visit with a tour, including classroom visits, followed by a spring-themed parade attended by parents and the Easter bunny. The students showcased their musical talents, and class-made costumes, and danced along to everyone’s delight. Students made necklaces that were presented to the Leadership Bakersfield class, melting the hearts of all in attendance. This was a real opportunity to see how
the community, schools, and parents come together to prepare students with special needs to meet the demands of school.
After experiencing tears of joy at the Richardson Center, the class proceeded to McKinley Elementary School which is located in the Bakersfield City School District to experience their newly enhanced natural path and tour the seed to table classroom. The K-6 students eagerly welcomed them as recess was in full swing. McKinley staff, including Principal Kelli Michaud, and students shared about their garden and food-to-table program. Mark Luque, BCSD Superintendent, discussed district programs and his focus on achievement for all students through equity and innovation. Following the presentations, our class embarked on a studentled tour through the garden and nature path, then explored the kitchen classroom, and had the opportunity to connect with students. A seed to table style lunch was prepared by the Edible Schoolyard team from the Grimm Family Education Foundation (GFEF). The class savored a special lunch made from the same high-quality, scratchmade ingredients that students enjoy daily in a beautifully set picnic-style atmosphere to enjoy the wonderful weather.
The next stop was a VIP tour and presentation at Cal State University Bakersfield (CSUB). Jennifer Self, Senior Director of Strategic Communications, and team provided a campus tour which included the state-of-the-art John Antonino Sports Complex, Food Pantry, and ending at the Tejon Plaza. Sarah Hendrick, Director of Alumni Engagement, shared opportunities to get involved and provided an overview of the alumni association. Our time at CSUB ended with Dr. Dwayne Cantrell, Vice President for Strategic Enrollment and Student Support, who shared his strategic plan to attract, admit, enroll, retain, and graduate students. His passion for student success and commitment to promoting a welcoming and understanding environment on campus was inspiring.
After the campus tour and presentation at CSUB, the class traveled back to downtown Bakersfield, returning to the Christine Lizardi Frazier Student Services Center to conclude the day with day chair presentations. There, the class was welcomed with sweet treats, courtesy of KCSOS’s remarkable food services team. Dylan Wilson, Executive Director of the Edible Schoolyard Kern County shared an overview of the Grimm Education Foundation, Grow Public Schools, and his program, all of which regard education and wellness as fundamental to student
growth and development. Lourdes Bucher, Administrator of School-Community Partnerships with KCSOS, highlighted the Community Schools Program which is dedicated to providing ‘wholechild’ support to enhance student health, and wellness, and increase intervention and prevention services for all students to thrive in school and beyond.
Dr. John Mendiburu, KCSOS Superintendent, closed out the day with a personal and inspiring message about leadership and collaboration. Inspired by mentors throughout his life, he shared personal experiences that led to his philosophies on leadership and addressed class questions.
All in all, a very successful day!
Winning the 2024 Beautiful Bakersfield Award in the Humanitarian Group category was an unforgettable moment for the Noel Alexandria Foundation and for me personally. To be recognized by the Greater Bakersfield Chamber among so many incredible organizations was both humbling and deeply meaningful. It was more than an award—it was a powerful reminder that the work we’re doing matters and is making an impact right here in our community. That evening, standing among changemakers and visionaries, we felt truly seen. Our mission is rooted in love, compassion, and service—born from personal heartbreak and transformed into purposeful action. At the Noel Alexandria Foundation, we walk alongside families who are experiencing unimaginable loss due to pregnancy and infant loss. Through our programs like The Silent Cry and our Comfort Kit donations, as well as financial assistance via the Memorial Fund, we aim to bring healing, support, and hope to those navigating grief.
Receiving this award gave us a beautiful platform to share our story and highlight the lives being touched through our efforts. It affirmed our commitment to being a steady source of light and support for families during some of their darkest days. We are especially proud that 90% of the families we’ve served have gone on to experience successful live births after receiving our care and support—a testament to the power of community and compassion.
We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for the continued support from Bakersfield. This recognition fuels our passion to keep going, to reach more families, and to be the voice, the shoulder, and the helping hand that so many desperately need. We look forward to continuing this work and spreading awareness—because no one should ever have to grieve in silence.
Trinity Brown Founder & CEO, Noel Alexandria Foundation
The Greater Bakersfield Chamber invites you to the Saturday, June 14
Dignity Health Theater & Convention Center 1001 Truxtun Avenue
5 p.m. Reception
6 p.m. Dinner
7 p.m. Awards Ceremony
This year's Beautiful Bakersfield Awards theme is "Night at the MET." Join us for an elegant evening and dress to impress in your best MET-inspired outfit!
Business growth, equitable access to capital and community collaboration came together earlier this month as the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, in partnership with Valley Strong Credit Union, hosted a special networking mixer with a focus on local impact.
The event brought together dozens of business owners, entrepreneurs and community members for an evening of new connections, small bites from Chef Lino and a shared spirit of giving back. The highlight of the night was a surprise donation to Patrick’s Pantry, a grassroots food distribution effort led by 10-year-old Patrick Zubiran.
Patrick’s Pantry was born out of Patrick’s early volunteer work at the St. Vincent de Paul Center, where he began helping serve meals and organize pantry goods at just 8 years old. Inspired by his father, Oscar Zubiran, the business and center coordinator at St. Vincent de Paul, Patrick decided to launch his own initiative to fight food insecurity in Bakersfield
Through Patrick’s Pantry, he distributes staple items such as rice, beans, canned foods and bottled water to families in need across the community. Patrick spends most weekends sorting donations and preparing meals for distribution, embodying a commitment to service learned at home.
Recognizing his efforts, Valley Strong Credit Union presented Patrick with a $1,000 donation during the mixer to support the expansion of his pantry operations. Which also symbolized the impact that one young person can make when community organizations come together in support.
The donation will help Patrick continue providing critical supplies to local families, particularly during times of rising need. Organizers emphasized that partnerships like these reflect the Chamber’s broader mission to foster not just economic success, but a thriving, community.
Patrick’s Pantry continues to welcome public food donations, which can be dropped off at the St. Vincent de Paul Center. Those interested in donating or requesting food assistance can call 661912-6410 for more information.
The mixer reinforced the importance of building business networks while also lifting the community through purposeful action. As Bakersfield grows, leaders say events like this ensure that success is shared and that changemakers like Patrick are supported in their efforts to make a lasting difference.
Donate Food: Patrick’s Pantry accepts nonperishable food donations, including rice, beans, canned goods and bottled water.
Drop-off location:
St. Vincent de Paul Center, 316 Baker St, Bakersfield, CA 93305
Monetary Donations:
Call 661-912-6410 to arrange a financial donation to help Patrick continue serving local families.
Families in need can also call 661912-6410 to request pantry items.
Every donation helps fight food insecurity and supports Patrick’s mission to give back to the Bakersfield community.
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.
Atul Aggarwal MD Cardiology Clinic
1018 Calloway Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 664-0100
aggarwalclinic.com
“Aggarwal Cardiology Clinic in Bakersfield, California. Experience personalized cardiovascular care at its finest. Our expert team, led by Dr. Aggarwal, combines cuttingedge technology with compassionate service.”
Kern County Chapter NECA
4015 Coffee Rd. Suite 210 Bakersfield, CA 93308 (360) 790-0095
kccneca.com
“Kern County NECA Chapter - Representing Management for Signatory Electrical Contractors.”
La Revancha Productions LLC
8200 Stockdale Hwy. M-10 #368 Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 337-1145
larevancha.com
“What does the name of our band mean? La Revancha ("The Rematch" in Spanish), is an opportunity for selfre-creation and self-proclamation daily. Anything that was left undone, anything that was an issue, any missed opportunity, any opportunity to grow... that is La Revancha. A chance to take as many shots at something until we get it right! Established in 2000 La Revancha has performed in hundreds of venues and events including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Central Park Main Stage for the NY City Marathon, and The Fox Theater in Bakersfield California, amongst many others.”
Law Office of Jorge Alesna, Jr. 1522 18th St. Ste. 310 Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 933-0043 alesnalaw.com
“My practice is rooted in the belief that every client deserves personalized attention and representation. I work collaboratively, ensuring each case is handled with the utmost care and diligence. My extensive background in tax law equips me with the insight necessary to tackle a range of IRS-related issues, making my practice a trusted partner in protecting your financial well-being and future stability.”
LEARFIELD
9001 Stockdale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93311 (619) 846-3555 gorunners.com
“Learfield is a collegiate sports marketing company, representing more than 200 of the nation's top collegiate properties including the NCAA and its 89 championships, NCAA.”
LongHorn Steakhouse
8850 Rosedale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 695-4241 longhornsteakhouse.com
“Experience steak done right at your Bakersfield, California LongHorn Steakhouse. Located on the south west corner of Rosedale Hwy and El Toro Viejo Rd, you will experience expertly grilled steak uniquely seasoned in our signature spice blend, ice-cold beer and beverages, freshly baked honey wheat bread, handchopped salads, seasonal sides, and signature desserts. At your Bakersfield steakhouse on 8850 Rosedale Hwy, you can enjoy lunch and dinner that's a cut above the rest.”
Maverick Medical Clinic
2317 17th St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 487-3909 healthcaremaverick.com
“At Maverick Medical, we believe that healthcare should be personal, proactive, and patient-centered. Our mission is to build lasting relationships with our patients, providing meaningful visits that focus on prevention, healthy habits, and long-term wellness.”
Nostra Analytics, LLC
PO Box 10024
Bakersfield, CA 93389 (661) 490-9352 nostra-analytics.com
“Nostra Analytics provides expertise in data analytics and corporate training, empowering companies to apply data-driven principles and techniques to make informed business decisions.”
Panama-Buena Vista Foundation
4200 Ashe Rd.
Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 203-2474
pbvusd.k12.ca.us
“ We support the PBVUSD in achieving excellence in education.”
Patio Spaces
6801 White Ln.
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (661) 831-1179
thepatioplacefresno.com
“The Patio Place has earned it's reputation as the trusted source for top-tier outdoor furniture. We are the only store in the central valley that offers solely patio furniture. We have a complete selection of quality outdoor furniture, umbrellas, cantilevers, rugs, accessories, as well as in home consultation. We custom make cushions and pillows with over 200 plus Sunbrella fabrics to choose from. Let us decorate your outdoor living room.”
R3LLC
2000 Heaton St.
Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 428-3738
xtransmobile.com
“ We operate R3LLC a local business providing business consulting, primarily in the AG industry and have recently started XTransMobile Non-Emergency Medical Transportation services.”
Torq MSP
4900 California Ave. Tower A Suite 401
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (661) 247-7875
torqmsp.com
“Torq MSP is a locally owned IT company dedicated to helping businesses thrive by combining human insight with AI precision. We specialize in cybersecurity, business automation, and A.I., providing solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.”
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.
Access Plus Capital - 2017
Advanced Data Storage - 2009
Amazon Fulfillment Center - 2021
Apex Management Group - 2010
AppleOne Employment Services - 1992
California Independent Petroleum Association - 1992
Cen Cal Business Finance Group - 1990
Clark Pest Control - 1951
Clean Stride - 2024
Columbus Estates - 2014
Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center - 1997
Empire Aesthetic Center - 2023
Gold Standard Mortgage - 2023
Golden 1 Credit Union - 2022
John F. Stovall - 2005
Kaiser Permanente - Target Clinic - 2022
Kaiser Permanente Kern County - 1987
Kern Law Enforcement Association - 2013
LeBeau-Thelen LLP - 1989
Lux Dermatology - 2023
Motor City Auto Center - 1972
National Cement Company - 2009
Pacific Steel Group - 2024
Patio Spaces - 2017
Personal Express Insurance - 2009
Pismo Beach Hotel Partners, LLC - 2011
Royal Palms - 1996
Sagaser Watkins & Wieland - 2019
Trans West Security Service, Inc. - 1990
United Way of Central Eastern California - 1993
Grand Opening
Kern County Superintendent of Schools
1300 17th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301 kern.org
Grand Opening California Cardiovascular Institute 8337 Brimhall Rd Building 1200, Bakersfield, CA 93312 cacvinst.com
Grand Opening
BSK Associates
700 22nd St, Bakersfield, CA 93301 bskassociates.com
Grand Opening
Ascend Behavioral Health 15663 Azalea Spring Ct, Bakersfield, CA 93314 ascendbh.com
Grand Opening
Valley Achievement Center 7300 Stine Road Bakersfield, CA 93309 autism-vac.org
For more information or to schedule a ribbon cutting, please contact us at info@bakochamber.com UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS
Longhorn Steakhouse 8850 Rosedale Highway, Bakersfield, CA 93312 Monday, May 5 | 2 p.m.
Valley Center for the Blind 2520 H St. A/B, Bakersfield, CA 93301 Thursday, May 8 | 3:30 p.m.
Creative Financial Staffing 9201 Camino Media Suite #115 Bakersfield, CA 93311 Thursday, May 15 | 4 p.m.
Harris BBQ 4625 Buena Vista Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93304 Tuesday, May 20 | 11:00 a.m.
Columbus Estates
3201 Columbus Street, Bakersfield, CA 93306 Thursday, May 22 | 4 p.m.
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
Thursday, May 1
Kern County Economic Summit
7 a.m. | CSUB
Thursday, May 6
Government Review Council Meeting
Noon | Chamber
Sunday, May 18
BYP Nature Outing
9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Wind Wolves Preserve
Thursday, May 22
Coffee with the Chamber
8-9 a.m. | Chamber
Tuesday, May 27
Ambassadors Committee Meeting
Noon | Chamber
Friday, May 30
Government Review Council Meeting
8 a.m. | Chamber
Friday, May 30
Bakersfield Young Professionals Meeting
9 a.m. | Chamber
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!
The Bakersfield Police Department is proud to partner with our community and offer the “Trespass Enforcement Authorization” program. If you own or manage a business or property in the City of Bakersfield, participating in this program will assist the Police Department in enforcing unauthorized individuals from loitering or camping on private property. With the completion of a simple form, your acknowledgement allows BPD to arrest violators, even when the responsible owner is not present. Officers will easily access your authorized form to enforce common issues, including trespassing, camping and loitering.Participation in the program is simple. Email Trespassletters@ bakersfieldcity.us to request the form.
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.
Klein DeNatale Goldner was established in our community in 1953. With offices in Bakersfield, Fresno, San Diego, and Santa Barbara, their attorneys represent both businesses and individuals using their decades of experience, depth of knowledge and track record. From complex business transactions and litigation to emerging issues in agriculture and the environment, they provide comprehensive legal services to a broad range of clients and industries. They also offer experienced counsel in estate planning and probate matters, labor and employment issues, intellectual property, and emerging health care issues. Visit kleinlaw.com to learn more.