Issuu

LAZIN' IN THE GRASS.

INSIDE ON THE

Read a message from your President/CEO, Janelle Capra

Hear from a 2025 Award Recipient

Take a peak inside a class day

Inside the Political Action Committee's reception & fundraiser with Jean Fuller

Metro is the official publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. This publication is produced and digitally distributed to the Chamber’s membership at the end 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.

Find out what our members are doing in the community

Please send any comments, questions, article suggestions or advertising inquiries to info@bakochamber.com.

PHOTO

BAKPAC fundraising reception.

Pictured left to right: Kaelyn Peterson, Nick Ortiz, Dana Brennan, Jean Fuller, Chris Frank, Janelle Capra.

Photo by Lettratto.

Message from the CEO

Celebrating women who lead & a Chamber that advocates

April in Bakersfield has been a powerful reminder of what makes our community so special: leadership, resilience, and a shared commitment to progress.

This month, we were proud to support and celebrate the Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference, a cornerstone event that continues to uplift and empower women across our region. The energy in the room was undeniable, women showing up for themselves and for one another, creating space to grow, lead, and thrive. That momentum reflects a much larger story unfolding across California, where women-owned businesses now represent nearly 40% of all enterprises and continue to drive billions in economic impact statewide. Right here in the Greater Bakersfield region, we see that leadership in action every day.

Looking ahead, I am honored to serve as Chair of the 2027 Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference, with the theme “Share Your Light: Starring You!” It is an invitation to step forward boldly, to embrace your purpose, and to recognize the value of your voice and vision. Because when individuals rise, our entire community rises with them.

April also gave us the opportunity to witness an important moment for public safety in our community, the swearing-in of Brent Stratton as the new Chief of Police for the Bakersfield Police Department. With 22 years of dedicated service, Chief Stratton has built a career grounded in compassion, professionalism, and accountability. His vision to strengthen relationships

rooted in trust and respect reflects the values we all share as a community. We congratulate Chief Stratton and look forward to his leadership in advancing safety and partnership across Bakersfield.

As we turn the page into May and beyond, the Chamber is excited to continue convening our business community through meaningful programs and events designed to inform, celebrate, and connect.

One of our premier programs is just around the corner. The 2026 Kern County Economic Summit, presented in partnership with the Kern Economic Development Corporation and CSU Bakersfield, will bring together economists and business leaders to share insights into the international, national, and regional forces shaping our economy and their implications for Kern County’s future.

This annual summit is an opportunity to gain perspective, ask critical questions, and better position your business and organization for what lies ahead.

We’re also looking forward to one of our most anticipated celebrations of the year, the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards Gala, taking place Saturday, June 13, at the Dignity Health Arena Theater and Convention Center. This year’s theme, “The Sound of Our City,” will come to life during a red-carpet reception beginning at 5 p.m., honoring the people, organizations, and efforts that make Bakersfield a place we are proud to call home. Tickets will go on sale Monday, May 4, and we encourage you to be part of this unforgettable evening.

Thank you for your continued partnership, leadership, and commitment to making our region stronger.

Janelle Capra President & CEO

Greater Bakersfield Chamber Blessings,

Kern Medical's Addiction Medicine Recovery Program wins Health & Wellness Award

My name is Dr. Sarah Gonzalez, a Bakersfield native, and a board-certified physician in Emergency Medicine and Addiction Medicine. Receiving the 2025 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards in the Health & Wellness category for our Addiction Medicine programs at Kern Medical is incredibly meaningful to me, both personally and professionally. This recognition is not just about an award, it is a reflection of the lives being changed every day through compassionate, evidence-based care and the dedication of an entire team that believes recovery is possible for everyone.

When we launched this program, I knew there was a tremendous need in our community, but I also knew meaningful growth would take time. Reaching this level of impact within our first few years of launching the Medication Assistance and Recovery Clinic (MARC) has exceeded even my own expectations. That kind of progress speaks to the commitment of our staff, the support of Kern Medical, and the willingness of our patients to trust us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Today, we care for hundreds of patients each month through the MARC clinic alone, in addition to services provided in the shelter, the jail, and

through our inpatient consult program. That reach matters because addiction does not exist in just one place, it affects every part of our community. Meeting patients where they are and providing treatment across multiple settings helps remove barriers and gives people a real chance at recovery.

What this award means to me personally, comes down to the patients. Watching someone reclaim their life is the most rewarding part of this work. It is why I chose this field and why I remain so passionate about it.

Professionally, this award validates the importance of addiction medicine as an essential part of healthcare. Substance use disorder is a medical condition that deserves the same compassion, urgency, and quality treatment as any other illness. My hope is that this recognition helps reduce stigma, encourages more people to seek help, and inspires continued investment in programs like ours.

I am deeply grateful to our team, our leadership, and our patients who allow us to be part of their journey. This award belongs to all of them.

- Dr. Gonzalez, Kern Medical

Leaders get an A+ for Education Day!

Leadership Bakersfield got an A+ for Education Day! The 2026 Class kicked off the day at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) STEAM Yard with a delicious catered breakfast from KCSOS and presentation from last year’s Leadership Bakersfield winning team member, Kiersten Webb. Kiersten enlightened the class on the college and career programs KCSOS offers to students.

Next, the class headed to Richardson Child Development Center, where Principal Judith Noak gave a tour of the campus and shared how they provide services to 72 children aged three to five. It is a full day, 10-hour preschool program that educates and supports parents as well as children.

At North High School, Kern High School District’s David Carter gave students insight into their Aviation Program. He encouraged everyone to test their flying skills on the simulators.

Greater Bakersfield Chamber’s Board Chair, Dr. Vernon Harper hosted a luncheon at California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB). The class heard from various CSUB faculty and had the opportunity to take a VIP tour of the campus, including the construction of the new Energy

Innovation Building. This place will be a hub for energy research, workforce training and industry collaboration.

The class ended their day at the Weill Institute, where NaTesha “T” Johnson shared how Launchpad helps entrepreneurs kickstart their businesses by providing resources, workshops and a helpful business community. T led an interactive game and had the class enjoy a meet and greet with some of the business entrepreneurs.

Lastly, KCSOS Superintendent Dr. John Mendiburu spoke about the responsibilities of being a leader, which left the class feeling inspired as they closed out Education Day.

“Education Day highlights something we don’t always see from the outside—the intentional pathways being built for students at every level. From early exposure to real-world applications and entrepreneurship, it’s clear that our community is investing in more than education— we’re investing in opportunity. As leaders, it’s a powerful reminder that we all play a role in strengthening that foundation for what comes next,” said Christina Springstead, Leadership Bakersfield advisor.

Thank you to our Day Sponsors, KCSOS and CSUB, for supporting Leadership Bakersfield and making this day an amazing educational experience.

Interested in sponsoring Leadership Bakersfield?

If you’re inspired by Education Day's impact, seize the opportunity to become a day sponsor for the 2026 cohort. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@bakochamber.com.

Program Underwriter

Honoring Leadership & Legacy: BAKPAC Reception Celebrates Senator Jean Fuller

Business & community leaders gather to reflect on public service and protect what we've built

By Joel Paramo, Senior Director of Strategic Communications

The Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (BAKPAC) brought together business leaders, community partners, and advocates for an energizing and reflective fundraising reception centered on leadership, legacy, and the enduring connection between public service and the business community.

The evening’s featured guest, Jean Fuller, offered a thoughtful and personal reflection on her decades of service to the Central Valley. Drawing from her time as an educator, administrator, and ultimately a leader in the California State Legislature, Fuller spoke to the importance of pragmatic leadership, fiscal responsibility, and staying grounded in the needs of the communities she represented. She emphasized how the business community, particularly the Chamber and BAKPAC, played a vital role in supporting her work and ensuring that pro-growth, pro-business perspectives remained part of the broader policy conversation.

In a special and heartfelt moment during the event, Fuller was surprised with the announcement of her induction into the Shafter High School Hall of Fame. The recognition celebrates not only her professional achievements but also the lasting impact she has made as a leader who embodies the excellence, tradition, and spirit of her alma mater. Reserved for individuals whose service, leadership, and commitment reflect the very best of what it means to be a “General,” the honor served as a fitting tribute to a career defined by dedication and purpose.

“Since 1999, Chamber members and business

leaders have relied on BAKPAC to stay focused on one mission: supporting candidates who understand and champion the needs of our business community,” said BAKPAC Chair Dana Brennan. “We aren’t partisan in that work, and leaders like Senator Fuller exemplify what it means to serve with that mindset. Her career is a reminder of the impact thoughtful, communitycentered leadership can have not just in policy, but in shaping the future of regions like ours.”

The event reinforced BAKPAC’s ongoing commitment to engaging the business community in the political process, supporting strong leadership, and protecting the economic foundation that drives the Greater Bakersfield region forward.

The event also highlighted the strength of BAKPAC’s growing network of year-long corporate sponsors, whose commitments at the Executive, Leadership, and Advocate Circle levels are helping to build a sustained, unified voice for business in Kern County. These partnerships are critical in ensuring that the business community remains engaged, informed, and represented throughout the election cycle.

As BAKPAC continues its work in 2026, additional opportunities remain for businesses and community leaders to get involved. Corporate sponsorships and contributions play a direct role in advancing policies that protect and strengthen the region’s economic foundation. Those interested in supporting BAKPAC’s mission are encouraged to explore yearlong sponsorship opportunities or contribute to help shape the future of business advocacy in Kern County.

For more information reach out to Senior Director of Strategic Communications, Joel Paramo, at jparamo@ bakochamber.com

BAKPAC extends its sincere appreciation to our year-long sponsors whose leadership and investment help sustain a strong, unified voice for the business community throughout the election cycle.

Executive Circle

Leadership Circle

Advocate Circle

Photos by Lettratto.

BAKPAC Announces Endorsements for 2026 Primary Election, Support for Measure A

By Joel Paramo, Senior Director of Strategic Communications

The Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (BAKPAC) announced its endorsements for the 2026 Primary Election, including support for Measure A, calling on the Greater Bakersfield business community to remain engaged in protecting the economic foundation it has worked to build. At the center of this year’s effort is a clear message: Protect What You’ve Built. Every job created, every business launched, and every opportunity expanded in Kern County depends on leadership that understands the realities of running a business and the policy decisions required to sustain long-term economic vitality.

Endorsements:

Kern County Board of Supervisors, District 2: Chris Parlier

Kern County Board of Supervisors, District 3: Jeff Flores

“BAKPAC supports candidates and measures that align with the economic and business priorities of the Bakersfield business community,” said BAKPAC Chair Dana Brennan. “This year, more than ever, it’s about protecting what our business community has built, jobs, industries, and opportunities that sustain families across Kern County. Following a comprehensive application and interview process, we are confident these endorsements reflect leaders who will protect and strengthen that foundation.”

BAKPAC’s endorsement process is grounded in evaluating which candidates are best prepared to support a strong, resilient economy. Protecting what the business community has built requires leadership that understands the stakes and ensures businesses can grow, invest, and continue to provide quality jobs in our region. The endorsement decisions are rooted

California State Assembly, District 32: David Couch

California State Senate, District 12: Nathan Magsig

California State Assembly, District 35: Andrae Gonzales

California State Senate, District 16: Guillermo Gonzalez

in their mission as a bipartisan, independent, businessfocused political action committee.

BAKPAC also announced its support of Measure A – Kern County Charter Status which reflects the organization’s belief that local governance matters in protecting economic stability. Charter status would provide Kern County with greater flexibility to respond to regional needs, strengthen accountability, and better align decision-making with the realities of the local economy.

As ballots begin to roll out, BAKPAC is encouraging business leaders and community members alike to stay informed, participate in the election, and remain engaged in shaping Kern County’s future. To learn more about BAKPAC, please visit bak-pac.com.

THE PROBLEM THE PROBLEM

Currently, when a Kern County Supervisor’s seat becomes vacant, the Governor of California gets to pick the replacement — someone who may have never lived in Kern County, who doesn’t know our communities, our economy, or our values. That appointee answers to Sacramento, not to you.

WHAT MEASURE A DOES WHAT MEASURE A DOES

Prevents Sacramento Politicians from appointing to the vacant Supervisor’s seat.

Restores local control by giving the Board of Supervisors the authority to fill the vacancy or call for a special election.

Protects Kern County residents’ voice in who represents us in a transparent and accountable way. Right now, R ight now, Sacramento Sac r a mento decides

WHY KERN COUNTY NEEDS MEASURE A

Bipartisan Support

All 5 Kern County Supervisors — Democrat and Republican — voted unanimously. This isn't partisan. It's about what's right for Kern County.

Local Control

Kern County voters — not Sacramento — should decide who represents our communities.

Local Accountability

A Governor's appointee answers to Sacramento. Measure A ensures vacancies are filled by someone who answers to Kern County voters.

Already Proven

15 major California counties — including LA, Fresno, and San Bernardino — already have this authority. Kern County deserves the same.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS UPDATE

April 2026

By Joel Paramo, Senior Director of Strategic Communications

The Chamber remains deeply engaged in advancing a proactive and strategic Government Affairs agenda that spans state legislation, local policy priorities, coalition advocacy, and the continued development of our political infrastructure.

As the legislative session accelerates and the June Primary Election approaches, our focus remains clear: ensuring the voice of the business community is represented early, consistently, and effectively in the decisions shaping the economic future of the Greater Bakersfield region.

At the center of this work is the Chamber’s Government Review Council (GRC), which continues to serve as the foundation of our policy engagement. This month, the GRC hosted Kern County Supervisor

David Couch (District 4), who provided a timely and informative overview of Measure A, Kern County’s proposed transition to Charter status and its implications for local control and governance. The Chamber supports this measure and encourages a YES vote ahead of the Primary.

The GRC also convened a candidate forum for California’s Senate District 16 ahead of the June 2026 Primary Election, featuring Guillermo Gonzalez and Bakersfield Vice Mayor Manpreet Kaur. The discussion highlighted key issues impacting our region, including economic growth, regulatory challenges, and long-term competitiveness.

Conversations like these reinforce the importance of informed, accountable leadership and the Chamber’s role in fostering meaningful dialogue between the business community and those seeking to represent it.

Policy & Advocacy Highlights

The Chamber remains actively engaged in state legislative advocacy, with a strong emphasis on coalition-building and regional coordination.

OPPOSE - SB 1075 (Reyes)

The Chamber is leading a coordinated regional effort to oppose SB 1075, reactivating our Advocacy Action Alert framework to engage stakeholders quickly and effectively.

In partnership with regional stakeholders, we have organized a multi-organization coalition response, drafting and expanding formal opposition letters, distributing policy briefs and targeted communications, and mobilizing partners in advance of the bill’s committee hearing.

As currently drafted, SB 1075 would require local governments to align land-use decisions with state-directed emissions reduction frameworks while expanding enforcement mechanisms, including new litigation pathways. Our advocacy has focused on concerns related to local control, project feasibility, regulatory uncertainty, and the long-term impacts on housing, energy, and industrial development.

OPPOSE - SB 1359 (Stern)

The Chamber also remained actively engaged on SB 1359 as it advanced through the legislative process. The bill was heard in the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee on

April 21, where it advanced on a narrow vote, reflecting ongoing concerns raised by stakeholders. In coordination with coalition partners, the Chamber has signed onto coalition opposition letters, submitted direct advocacy communications, and engaged with regional and industry stakeholders.

Concerns remain regarding potential impacts to energy reliability, affordability, infrastructure investment, and regulatory certainty, particularly as related proceedings continue before the California Public Utilities Commission.

As the bill moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee, the Chamber continues to encourage stakeholder engagement to ensure policymakers fully consider the real-world implications for businesses and communities

If you’d like more information on these issues or if your business organization would like to join our coalitions to stop these bills, please email Senior Director of Strategic Communications, Joel Paramo, at jparamo@bakochamber. com. .

Monitoring & Emerging Issues

The Building an Affordable California Act, led by the California Chamber of Commerce, announced the submission of nearly one million voter signatures, more than enough to qualify the measure for the November 2026 ballot.

The proposal seeks to modernize California’s project approval and permitting process by establishing clear timelines, improving accountability, and reducing delays that drive up the cost of housing, energy, water, and infrastructure development.

This effort is supported by the Chamber’s policy priorities around infrastructure investment, regulatory transparency, and economic competitiveness.

The Chamber continues to represent the business community in key local discussions, including convening regional partners around economic development opportunities tied to federal policy.

alignment with target industries. The goal is to balance economic need with the ability to attract and support investment across sectors, including housing, industrial development, and energy.

The Chamber’s role in convening this discussion reflects our commitment to ensuring the business community is engaged early in shaping opportunities that impact long-term regional growth and investment. Learn more by clicking HERE

Through participation in the Jail Bed Task Force, we advocated for increased jail capacity and encouraged coordinated funding solutions between the City of Bakersfield and Kern County. This issue continues to be framed as both a public safety priority and a concern for economic stability in the region.

The Chamber’s Political Action Committee, BAKPAC, continues to support candidates and initiatives that protect jobs, strengthen the local economy, and advance business interests.

On April 8, the Chamber hosted the County of Kern and regional stakeholders for a convening on Opportunity Zones 2.0, a newly reauthorized federal program designed to incentivize private investment in economically distressed communities.

As the June primary approaches, BAKPAC is focused on three priorities:

We also evaluated opportunities for federal engagement, including a potential infrastructure roundtable with Congressman David Valadao, ensuring alignment with the Chamber’s broader advocacy priorities and scheduling considerations.

1. Positioning for Success in the 2026 Election Cycle: Supporting pro-business candidates who understand the challenges of running a business in Kern County.

This effort comes at a critical time, as Kern County works to identify and prioritize eligible census tracts for designation. Of the 101 qualifying tracts countywide, only approximately 25 to 26 will ultimately be selected, making early coordination and data-driven input essential.

As we move further into the legislative session and toward the June Primary Election, several key themes continue to shape the policy landscape:

2. Maximizing Member Engagement and Contributions: Encouraging members to participate in shaping the Chamber’s advocacy efforts.

• Infrastructure delivery and permitting reform

• Regulatory certainty and economic impact

• Energy policy and affordability

• Local governance and accountability

3. Strengthening BAKPAC’s Visibility and Trust: Highlighting the Chamber’s leadership in local and state policy discussions.

County officials are currently gathering feedback through May 15, focusing on factors such as development readiness, infrastructure, site availability, and

Membership contributions, even small gifts, provide a direct way to influence the local political landscape. Contributions under $99 do not require reporting, making it simple for members to support pro-business leadership.

The Chamber will continue engaging with policymakers, coalition partners, and members to assess these developments and advocate for policies that support a strong, competitive business environment.

To contribute, mail a check payable to BAKPAC or email info@

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.

Campo Bar and Bottle 1824 G St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 477-0401 campobarandbottle.com

“Campo is an adventurous wine bar + bottle shop in Downtown Bakersfield serving wines by the glass, by the bottle to enjoy on-premise or take-to-go, local beer, small plates and a monthly wine club. By rotating what we serve by the glass weekly, you'll never be bored with our lower intervention, small-producerfocused wine selection. We can't wait to see you at the bar!”

Compassionate Care Home Health 7545 N Del Mar #103 Fresno, CA 93711 (559) 432-2003 compassionatecare.com

Cushman and Wakefield 5060 California Ave, Suite 1000 Bakersfield, CA 93309 (661) 327-2263 cushmanwakefield.com

“Commercial Real Estate Broker - Office"

KEITH STONEBRAKER-STATE FARM 4600 Ashe Rd., Suite 308 Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 664-9663

“Trusted Bakersfield State Farm agent with 37+ years experience, offering personalized insurance and probate bond services, deeply committed to supporting local families and community."

New Life Medical and Aesthetics

4817 Centenial Plaza Way, Suite C Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 447-4559 newlifemed.com

“At New Life Medical & Aesthetics in Bakersfield, California, Nirav Naik, MD, FACS, and his highly skilled team provide expert weight-loss and aesthetics treatments to help patients look and feel their best. Dr. Naik is an experienced general and bariatric surgeon. He uses a wide range of surgical techniques, including minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotically assisted surgeries. In addition to his surgical expertise, Dr. Naik and his team offer a wide range of aesthetic treatments, such as intense pulsed light (IPL), laser hair removal, skin resurfacing, Botox®, and dermal fillers."

Nothing Bundt Cakes

2660 Oswell St., Suite 115 Bakersfield, CA 93306 (925) 216-4629

nothingbundtcakes.com

“Today, Nothing Bundt Cakes® is the #1 specialty cake company in the U.S., with over 600 locations serving up millions (yes, millions) bites of joy every year.”

OneLegacy Foundation

500 Old River Rd., Suite 205 Bakersfield, CA 93311 (213) 831-5219

onelegacy.com

“OneLegacy saves and heals lives through organ, eye and tissue donation.”

Parlor Club

4300 Resnik Ct., Suite 102 Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 596-8987

“Parlor Club is a private 24/7 indoor golf and social club offering premium simulator access, lounge space, and a refined members-only experience in Bakersfield”

T&M Hauling LLC Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 996-6951

“We’re a family-owned junk removal and property cleanup company committed to responsible disposal. We donate usable items and recycle whenever possible. From small pickups to large-scale cleanouts, we handle both residential and commercial projects. Whether it’s a home, storage unit, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered."

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.

Apex Management Group - 2010

Arts Council of Kern - 2023

Atul Aggarwal MD Cardiology Clinic - 2025

Bakersfield Jet Center by Loyds Aviation1991

Barbich Consulting - 2005 Bureau of Land Management - 1993

Clean Stride - 2024

Clinica Sierra Vista - 2018

Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center1997

The Daily Report - 1995

Empire Aesthetic Center - 2023

Juice it Up Bakersfield - 2024

Kaiser Permanente - Target Clinic - 2022

Kaiser Permanente Kern County - 1987

Leadership Consultants, LLC - 2024 LeBeau-Thelen LLP - 1989

M.A.R.E. Therapeutic Riding Center - 1997 Mission Bank - 1998

Moneywise Wealth Management - 2004

National Cement Company - 2009

Nothing Bundt Cakes - 2015

O'Dell Cross, A Professional Corporation1991

Personal Express Insurance - 2009 The Patio Place - 2017

Royal Palms - 1996

Springstead Solutions - 2020

Tlo Wines - 2023

The UPS Store #2179 - 2022

Water Associates - 2022

The Wildlands Conservancy Wind Wolves Preserve - 2016

Member News

Wounded Heroes Fund announces Community Sporting Clay Shoot Benefiting Local Veterans. Wounded Heroes Fund is proud to partner with Quantum Industries to invite the Kern County community to the Annual Sporting Clay Shoot on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 5 Dogs Range in Bakersfield. This event directly supports local veterans through the work of Wounded Heroes Fund and New Life K9s. It brings together businesses, community leaders, and residents who are committed to giving back to those who have served. Participants can join as individual shooters or teams, and businesses have the opportunity to support through sponsorships. The goal is simple — create real impact for veterans while strengthening the local community. Register here

Join the Annual Pyles Camp BBQ on May 9, 2026, from noon to 5 p.m. at Lake Ming’s Pyles Boys Camp BBQ Area in Bakersfield. This family-friendly event features delicious tri-tip, raffles, and a fun day outdoors—all in support of the life-changing work of R.M. Pyles Boys Camp. Proceeds help send young men to a 12-day wilderness leadership program and provide ongoing mentorship throughout the year. Plates are $15 for adults, and kids 12 and under eat free with a paid adult. Come hungry and enjoy great food, community, and a meaningful cause!

CSUB Golf Classic: The CSUB Department of Criminal Justice will host the CSUB Golf Classic on Saturday, May 9, at Sundale Country Club, with a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start. This community event raises vital funds to support criminal justice student scholarships, study abroad opportunities, career development initiatives, paid internships, and Staff Forum scholarships.

There are several ways to get involved, including sponsorship opportunities, player registration, and in-kind donations for the opportunity drawing. The CSUB Foundation (Tax ID #952643086) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3), and all contributions are tax-deductible as permitted by law. Register here. For more information or to participate, please contact: Raul Navarro at rnavarro7@csub.edu

Purpose Driven Home Health is hosting a Spring Clean for Seniors: Donation Drive & Resource Fair. Join them on May 13, 2026, from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM at 350 Calloway Drive. They are collecting the following donations to support seniors in our community:

• Wheelchairs

• Walkers

• Shower chairs

• Hospital beds

• New hygiene supplies

For more information, please call 661-412-9730 ext. 120. For vendor inquiries send email to foundation@purposedrivehh. com.

Make a plan to vote: Key Dates for Kern County’s June

Election

As Kern County prepares for the upcoming election, now is the time for residents to make a plan to vote and ensure their voices are heard. Whether you prefer to vote early, by mail, or in person on Election Day, there are several important dates and resources to keep in mind.

Key Election Dates:

• Ballots begin mailing: Monday, May 4

• Secure ballot drop-off locations open: Tuesday, May 5

• Last day to register to vote: Monday, May 18

• Statewide early voting begins: Sunday, May 30

• Election Day: Tuesday, June 2

• Polling hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Vote-by-mail deadline: Ballots must be postmarked by June 2

Voting in Kern County is designed to be accessible and flexible. Once ballots are mailed, voters can return them by mail, drop them off at secure locations throughout the county, or vote in person during the early voting period or on Election Day.

If you still need to register, or want to confirm your registration status, you can do so quickly online through the Kern County Elections Office or the California Secretary of State’s website. Even if you miss the May 18 deadline, California offers conditional voter registration and same-day voting options at designated locations.

To find your polling place, early voting site, or nearest ballot drop-off location, visit the Kern County Elections Office website. Their tools allow you to search by address and provide up-to-date information tailored to your neighborhood.

Elections shape the future of our communities, our economy, and our region. Taking a few minutes now to prepare, by registering, locating your polling place, and understanding your options, ensures that when June 2 arrives, you’re ready to participate.

Your vote is your voice. Make a plan, stay informed, and be part of the process.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday, May 5

Government Review Council

• Noon | Greater Bakersfield Chamber

Thursday, May 7

Kern County Economic Summit

• 7:30 a.m. | Bakersfield Marriot at the Convention Center

Thursday, May 21 DGS Workshop

• Noon | Greater Bakersfield Chamber

Monday, May 25

Memorial Day - Chamber closed

• All day Wednesday, May 27

Coffee with the Chamber

• 9 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber

RIBBON CUTTINGS RIBBON CUTTINGS

Let’s Cut the Ribbon Together!

Celebrate your business milestones with the Chamber, and we’ll facilitate the ceremony for you!

SCHEDULE YOUR CEREMONY

2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair of the Board

Dr. Vernon B. Harper, Jr., California State University, Bakersfield

Chair Elect of the Board

Emily Duran, Kern Health Systems

Immediate Past Chair

Deanna Blaise, Valley Strong Credit Union

Treasurer

Lisa Carbajal, Cen Cal Business Finance Group

Vice Chair, Public Policy & Political Action

Willie Rivera, Campo Bar and Bottle

Vice Chair, Economic Vitality

Octavio Escobedo III, Tejon Indian Tribe

Vice Chair, Leadership & Workforce

Development

Molly Busaca, Secure Systems

Vice Chair, Member Engagement

Veronica 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

Jason Cater, City of Bakersfield

Maggie Cushine, Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County

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

Austin Smith, Sage Equities

Erin Tenter, Bolthouse Properties

Sherod Waite, Moneywise Wealth Management

Karen Zuber, Bank of America

CHAMBER STAFF

Janelle Capra

President & CEO

Joel Paramo

Senior Director of Strategic Communications

Savanah Adams

Director of Community & Member Engagement

Lorrie Guinn-Magers

Director of Operations & HR

Kimberly Price

Community Events Manager

Raegina Sanchez

Program Specialist

Get Social

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

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS

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