Now that you've got more time to enjoy life, why not live in a community that has more to enjoy? Highgate Regents is just the place. A gated, master planned, active adult community with no shortage of activities to choose from. And as if the putting green, pickleball courts, pool and spa, tness center, and the Regency Club weren't enough, our social director will make sure there are a variety of special events the whole community can enjoy.
When you're ready to start enjoying life more, come to Highgate Regents, where there's more life to enjoy.
CEO MESSAGE 4
Read a message from our President/CEO, Janelle Capra
BEAUTIFUL BAKERSFIELD AWARDS WINNER
Hear from a 2025 Award Recipient - Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation
LEADERSHIP BAKERSFIELD MEDIA DAY
See what the Leadership Bakersfield class of 2025 did during "Media Day"
AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE
Learn more about the Chamber Ambassador Committee
CUTTINGS
Celebrate the grand opening of new businesses
Welcome our new Chamber members
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.
Chamber Ambassador Dave Perkins enjoying shaved ice from Kona Ice
Photo taken by Kimberly Price
Message from the CEO
Leadership, Business & Opportunity in Action
August has been an exciting month for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber as we advanced our mission to connect, educate, and advocate for our local business community. From leadership development to business celebrations and policy discussions, we’ve been busy creating opportunities for growth and engagement.
As the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2025 continues its journey and Teams 1–4 showcase their projects, we’re already looking ahead to the next class. The application period for the 2026 cohort opened and closed this month, and we are now in the interview stage. The response from emerging leaders across the region has been truly inspiring.
Beyond leadership development, supporting local businesses remains at the heart of what the Chamber does. We had the privilege of celebrating new beginnings with businesses like Centro Cali Brewing, which brings handcrafted beer and delicious house-made food to downtown Bakersfield. We also welcomed No Bogeys Golf to our city, a destination for golfers seeking cutting-edge simulators, professional instruction, and custom equipment. These ribbon cuttings symbolize growth, investment, and confidence in Bakersfield’s economy.
Our Government Review Council (GRC) met this month to discuss a timely and impactful topic: Opportunity Zones 2.0. Featuring Austin and Anna Smith of Sage Equities, the session explored how this federal initiative could reshape development in our community. They now plan to identify a path for our members and local stakeholders to come together in support of strategic revitalization. These conversations are vital for businesses and investors who want to stay ahead of emerging trends.
Looking ahead, September is packed with opportunities to learn and engage. Our Labor Law & HR Forum, on Thursday, Sept. 18, will feature Jerry Pearson of Klein DeNatale Goldner, who will provide practical strategies for handling employee discipline and terminations while reducing risk. On Wednesday, Sept. 24, don’t miss the Report from the Capitol, an exclusive opportunity to hear directly from Congressman Vince Fong, who will share valuable insight into the federal advocacy efforts shaping our region. His leadership in Washington continues to champion Greater Bakersfield, and this is your chance to hear firsthand how those efforts impact our community.
Thank you for your ongoing support and participation. Every ribbon cutting, policy conversation, and leadership program strengthens the fabric of our business community. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant Bakersfield, one connection, one innovation, and one success story at a time.
Blessings,
Janelle Capra
President & CEO
Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation honored with "Educational Excellence" at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards
For us at Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation (Y2L), this award represents more than just the culmination of hard work; it is a milestone in a much larger vision. It affirms that the countless hours invested in building programs, mentoring students, and forging partnerships are creating a lasting impact. Most importantly, it strengthens our resolve to keep moving forward, expanding opportunities, and ensuring that every underrepresented student has access to higher education.
This recognition is also a reflection of the resilience and growth that define our organization. Over the past years, Y2L has expanded its reach beyond traditional afterschool programming to include alternative education pathways, leadership development, and residential learning experiences at institutions like USC. We have seen our footprint grow to new communities and new regions, yet our core mission remains the same: to open doors and empower students to envision a future bigger than themselves.
Accepting this award inspires us to look ahead with renewed determination. We know the challenges facing our students are complex, but we also know that resilience is built in moments like these, when we
celebrate progress while staying committed to the work that lies ahead. This honor is not the finish line, but rather a launchpad for even greater expansion, innovation, and impact.
For our team, this award serves as a reminder that their efforts matter. Every program, every mentorship conversation, every partnership built with schools and communities - it all leads to transformative outcomes. The recognition validates their dedication and fuels the collective energy we need as we continue to grow.
To our partners and supporters, this award is equally yours. Your belief in Y2L allows us to dream big and push boundaries. Together, we are proving that when resources, passion, and vision align, entire communities can be uplifted.
As we reflect on this honor, our eyes remain firmly on the future. We are committed to expanding programs, strengthening our reach, and continuing to innovate so that more students and families can experience the lifechanging impact of Y2L. The best chapters of our story are still ahead, and this recognition serves as inspiration to keep writing them with purpose, courage, and resilience.
Gabriel Adame President & CEO, Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation
This year, Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation proudly awarded scholarships to over 30 students across Kern County. As one of the leading organizations supporting students on their journey to higher education, Y2LEF continues to open doors and create opportunities for future success.
Y2L's Cash 4 College Program expanded beyond Kern County to include Inyo and Mono County, offering up to 180 workshops.
Y2LEF’s week-long program held at USC hosted 72 high school students, focusing on strengthening their mathematical skills through specialized coursework.
Navigating Media Day: From Crisis to Radio
The Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2025 participated in one of the program’s most dynamic and highimpact sessions: “Communications Through Media,” better known as Media Day. This full-day of hands-on experience equipped future leaders with the essential skills to communicate clearly and confidently under pressure, whether in the face of a crisis or during a major community initiative.
This year’s Media Day introduced a fresh flow and immersive experience, placing a stronger emphasis on real-world crisis communications. The morning began at the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, where participants engaged in a Crisis Communications Workshop led by Justin Salters, founder of Hey Salty, Inc. The session explored how leaders can craft calm, concise, and credible messages when everything is at stake.
Immediately afterward, teams jumped into a simulated crisis scenario, guided by the day chairs, Alex Fisher
(KCSOS) and Joel Paramo (GBC), where they had just minutes to develop a key message, define spokesperson roles, and respond to a mock press conference with local media professionals posing challenging questions. Major shout out to our volunteer media team:
• Christine Peterson, Executive Editor, The Bakersfield Californian
• David Perkins, Owner/Publisher, Greet Seven Oaks
• Janelle Capra, President & CEO, Greater Bakersfield Chamber
One of the day’s most impactful additions was a visit to the Kern County Emergency Operations Center (EOC). There, participants toured the Emergency Operations Center with Chief Communications Officer Erin Briscoe-
Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2025 participants tour the Kern County Emergency Operations Center in Bakersfield on Aug. 15, where officials coordinate communications during disasters.
Clarke, gaining firsthand insight into how public agencies manage information flow during high-stakes situations that affect thousands of residents. Emergency Services Manager Georgianna Armstrong provided a briefing on how Kern County responds to disasters, emphasizing the critical role of clear, timely communication in emergency response.
After experiencing the intensity of crisis messaging, the class shifted its focus to news media. At KGET-TV 17, participants enjoyed lunch while watching the live noon broadcast before a very informative news media crash course with President & General Manager Derek Jeffery.
Assistant News Director Erica Torres then led an engaging discussion on how to secure news coverage, sharing insider tips for pitching stories that matter.
The afternoon wrapped up at Alpha Media Studios, with Market Manager at Alpha Media USA, Jeremy Price. Participants went on-air for live radio interviews about their class projects across multiple stations, including KNZR, The Groove 99.3, and Energy 95.3. Each team showcased their project’s purpose and community impact in a fastpaced interview format, perfect practice for communicating key messages with confidence.
Stay tuned: As a gift to the cohort from Jeremy and the Alpha Media team, each group recorded a 60-second radio commercial, which will air free of charge in the weeks ahead.
Media Day highlights the reality that strong communication isn’t optional, it’s essential. This incredible day of learning and collaboration was made possible thanks to the generosity of our Media Day sponsors: Alpha Media, Hey Salty, Inc., and KGET-TV 17. Special thanks to our Day Chairs, Alex and Joel, for crafting a day designed to challenge, engage, and inspire.
Program Underwriter
Interested in Sponsoring Leadership Bakersfield?
If you’re inspired by Media Day’s impact and the meaningful work accomplished by Leadership Bakersfield participants, seize the opportunity to become a day sponsor for the 2026 cohort. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@bakochamber.com.
Erica Torres shares practical tips with Leadership Bakersfield participants on pitching stories that attract media coverage and engage the community.
Above: Erin Briscoe-Clarke, chief communications officer, briefs Leadership Bakersfield participants on the importance of clear and timely communication during emergencies.
Building Connections, Celebrating Community
Inside the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee
Ever wonder what the Greater Bakersfield Chamber’s Ambassador Committee is? It’s a volunteer network of business leaders who welcome new members, celebrate milestones, and build connections that strengthen the local economy.
The committee meets monthly for the Ambassador Luncheon (typically the 4th Tuesday of each month at noon), a signature event that combines networking, education, and leadership opportunities.
“The best way to get involved is by becoming a member, if you aren’t already,” said Kimberly Price, the Chamber’s community events manager. “Then attend an Ambassador Luncheon. From there, you can decide your next steps.”
The July luncheon, held at Chamber headquarters, opened with Kona Ice, a sweet way to beat the summer heat. Ambassadors then enjoyed a heart-healthy meal
sponsored by Dr. Aggarwal of Aggarwal Cardiology and the Phoenix Club at Sundale Country Club.
Dr. Aggarwal, a longtime advocate for cardiovascular health in Bakersfield, shared tips on maintaining a healthy heart, emphasizing preventative care, lifestyle choices, and access to personalized care. The luncheon also featured a heart trivia game, sparking conversation and friendly competition while educating attendees on heart health.
“Being an Ambassador can help our members build lasting relationships, promote their organization to local decision-makers, and stay informed on community opportunities,” said Janelle Capra, President and CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. “It’s also a way to give back by supporting fellow Chamber members and strengthening the business community as a whole.”
Chamber Ambassadors beat the summer heat with shaved ice from Kona Ice.
care in Bakersfield is at the core of what we do,” Dr. Aggarwal said. “It’s an honor to partner with the Chamber and connect with businesses that are equally passionate about serving our community.”
First-time attendees can join an Ambassador Luncheon at no cost. From there, members can decide how involved they want to be, whether attending monthly meetings, volunteering at events or simply staying connected.
What Makes the Ambassador Program Special?
The Ambassador Committee is often called the welcoming arm of the Chamber. Here’s what they do:
• Celebrate success stories at ribbon-cutting ceremonies and milestone events
• Support Chamber programs and advocacy efforts
• Help businesses connect with opportunities through introductions and referrals
• Represent the Chamber in the community as enthusiastic brand champions
Each monthly luncheon provides Ambassadors with exclusive access to guest speakers, community updates, and networking opportunities that help them grow their businesses while strengthening the Chamber network.
To RSVP and secure your spot for the next meeting, email Kimberly Price, at kprice@ bakochamber.com.
Want to showcase your business?
The Chamber offers three unique sponsorship levels for our monthly luncheons:
• Serve Sponsor: Provide lunch and receive featured recognition and speaking time
• Speak Sponsor: Share your story with a 15–20-minute presentation
• Shine Sponsor: Get your brand in attendees’ hands with sponsored bags
Each option offers visibility to 60–80 attendees, and is one of the most cost-effective ways to connect with the business community.
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.
Alpha Technologies & Alarm Systems, Inc.
4103 Buck Owens Blvd.
Suite A
Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 834-8324
aplphatechas.com
“Alpha Technologies & Alarm Systems specializes in fire alarms, security, access control, video surveillance, and cabling—delivering integrated life safety and low-voltage solutions with expert precision.”
Brandt Oliver Homes, Inc.
11004 Four Bears Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 201-3190
brandtoliverhomes.com
“We deliver a one-of-a-kind custom homes and remodels built with the highest level of design, personalized service and exceptional building materials.”
Heffernan Insurance Brokers
7702 Meany Ave. Suite 102
Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 387-5733
heffins.com
“We provide comprehensive business insurance, personal insurance, employee benefits and financial services products to a wide range of businesses and individuals nationwide. With a commitment to people, we value a culture dedicated to serving our clients’ needs in an effort to protect their valuable assets and assist in making smart decisions for their business or family.”
I Love Shop 13061 Rosedale Hwy Suite C
Bakersfield, CA 93314 (559) 755-4209
iloveshop.com
“Local boutique and jewelry bar, with a curated inventory of classic and trending pieces.”
Maaco Autobody & Paint
317 Ming Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93307 (661) 616-5262
maaco.com
“Maaco provides affordable, high-quality auto body repair and painting services, specializing in collision damage, cosmetic upgrades, and fleet refinishing for individuals and businesses.”
Rat Bastard Energy
2415 Eye St.
Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 619-1312
ratbastardenergy.com
“Energy drink distributor”
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.
All American Glass Co, - 2009
AltaOne Federal Credit Union - Riverwalk Office - 2012
Berry Petroleum Company, LLC - 1997
Century 21 Jordan-Link & Co. - Jeanne Radsick - 2009
Coffee Road Ventures, LLC c/o DJM Capital Partners, Inc. - 2024
Countryside Corp - 2017
Fifth Third Bank - 2024
Flood Ministries, Inc. - 2024
Four Points Hotel by Sheraton - 1983
Glinn and Giordano Physical Therapy - 2019
Golden Empire Concrete Sales - 1989
Grimmway Enterprises Inc. dba Grimmway Farms - 2008
Habitat for Humanity Golden EmpireReStore SW - 2016
Hoffmann Hospice - 1996
In Your Wildest Dreams - 2005
Les Schwab Tire Center - 2024
Pacific Gas and Electric Company - 1920
Payment Systems Worldwide - 1999
Realty Management Services - 2010
S.C. Anderson - 1990
Secure Systems - 1992
Tlo Wines - 2023
TopFlight MSP - 2024
Valerie Otterness - Mary Kay Consultant - 2024
Wounded Heroes Fund - 2018
Member News
B3K Prosperity: The inaugural Kern Capital Summit, Unbound, on September 29, 2025. Unbound brings together investors, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore high-growth opportunities in energy, aerospace and defense, agtech, AI, precision medicine and more. Join us on Monday, Sept. 29 at The Padre Hotel for keynote speaker sessions, panels, networking, and sector-specific insights. Buy tickets at https://b3kprosperity.org/unbound/.
EcoSmart Solutions: EcoSmart Solutions is an energy management company and Trade-Pro Vendor with PG&E. Specializing in providing little to zero out-of-pocket cost HVAC and LED lighting upgrades for PG&E commercial customers. The following services are available:
• Replace HVAC package units that have been in service for five or more years with more energy efficient models.
• Retrofit fluorescent lamps and fixtures, and upgrade them to LED equipment
• Their company receives payment directly from PG&E on a perproject basis, which means there is little to no out-of-pocket cost for the facility for equipment, materials, and labor.
• On-Bill Finance: PG&E lends funds to clients at 0% interest. Loan Repayment appears as a line item on customer bills. Loan Repayment starts in 60 days, Savings start immediately.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County: BGCKC's Meals Program, children and teens ages 18 and younger can continue to eat healthy meals, including supper and snacks, throughout the school year at no cost. Children do not have to be classified as economically disadvantaged to participate; there is no paperwork to complete. Meals will be served Monday to Friday (except holidays) at the various sites linked. Please note that meal service times and dates vary.
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 more good.If you are interested please visit the website and apply: http://lesschwab. com/tiresforpurpose.
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: https:// 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.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE MEMBER NEWS
Upcoming Events
Monday, Sept. 1
Labor Day - Chamber closed All day
Tuesday, Sept. 9 Ribbon Cutting 10 a.m. | I Love Shop
Tuesday, Sept. 9 GRC Noon | Chamber
Thursday, Sept. 18
Labor Law & HR Forum
8 a.m. | Chamber
Wednesday, Sept. 24
Report from the Capitol 11:30 a.m. | Stockdale Country Club
Friday, Sept. 26 GRC
8 a.m. | Chamber
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
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
Raegina Sanchez Program Specialist
Get Social
Stay engaged and connected with the Chamber on these social media platforms.
LINQride is an executive car service that offers pick-ups and drop-offs to San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Central Coast routes. Whether you’re going to a concert, sports game, or the airport, LINQride’s mission is to provide the highest level of service and elegance for your travels.
