Metro December 2025

A publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber | December 2025

Merry & Bright Brought to you by

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Castle & Cooke Homes 2,081 – 3,176 sq. ft.

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Custom Luxury Homesites 15,000 to 32,000+ sq. ft.

ON THE

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INSIDE CEO MESSAGE Read a message from your President/CEO, Janelle Capra

BEAUTIFUL BAKERSFIELD AWARDS WINNER Hear from a 2025 Award Recipient CASA of Kern

10 SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Learn more about two Chamber members: In Your Wildest Dreams & Arts Council of Kern

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14 HOLIDAY RECAP

Relive the magic of our holiday events

20 NEW MEMBERS

Welcome our new Chamber members

21 MEMBER NEWS

Find out what our members are doing in the community

6 COVER PHOTO Illustrated cover art style generated by artificial intelligence. Want to make your own? Visit https://artlist. io/.

10 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.

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.

CONTACT US 1725 Eye St. • PO Box 1947 Bakersfield, CA 93303 661.327.4421 bakochamber.com METRO | PAGE 3

Message from the CEO A Season of Celebration & Leadership As 2025 comes to a close, I am reflecting on a year of celebration, connection, and meaningful progress that will set the stage for a strong 2026. The work we’ve accomplished together this year is remarkable, and it is only possible because of engaged members like you.

We kicked off the holiday season by reinforcing the importance of shopping small and locally through Small Business Saturday®. For the second year in a row, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber was proud to serve as the official local American Express Neighborhood Champion®. We hosted a press conference to launch the campaign and highlight the small businesses that fuel our local economy. A special thank you to In Your Wildest Dreams for hosting and sharing their story, and to our partners, the City of Bakersfield, Downtown Business Association, and the Arts Council of Kern, for their year-round support of this effort.

December also brought festive connection through our BYP Mixer at the CALM HolidayLights Experience, featuring live music from Venessa Marie of Hot Mess Express, treats from Teen Challenge with KCSOS, and a keynote from Alex Fisher, Director of Communications for Self-Insured Schools of California, who spoke on the importance of authenticity. We also celebrated with our annual Holiday Mixer at Lino’s Venue, emceed by DJ Danny Hill, with networking, raffle prizes, and remarks from 2025 Board Chair Deanna Blaise and Incoming 2026 Chair Dr. Vernon Harper. Thank you to Lino’s Venue, our sponsors, and all who attended for helping spread holiday cheer.

I want to personally thank our Board of Directors, Ambassadors, Bakersfield Young Professionals, BAKPAC, Beautiful Bakersfield Awards Committee, Chairman’s Circle, Government Review Council, John Brock Awards Board, Leadership Bakersfield Council, Major Investors, community partners, and members.

This year made one thing abundantly clear: the business community is being called upon to lead.

We invite members to continue that leadership through Leadership Bakersfield, our 11-month flagship program that equips community leaders with the knowledge and tools to understand Bakersfield’s industries and challenges while giving back through a capstone project. Tax-deductible contributions can be made to Vision 2020, Inc. METRO | PAGE 4

Pictured left to right: Raegina Sanchez, Savanah Adams, Joel Paramo, Lorrie Guinn-Magers, Janelle Capra, and Kim Price.

Members can also support the business voice through BAKPAC, which advances pro-business leadership through nonpartisan endorsements and advocacy. Contributions under $99 do not require reporting and are a direct way to protect jobs and economic growth as we head into a critical election cycle.

Looking ahead, join us for the 2026 Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, Jan. 21, at Seven Oaks Country Club, and mark your calendars for the 36th Annual Beautiful Bakersfield Awards on Saturday, June 13. Nominations for 2026 are open through Friday, Jan. 30.

Together, we enter 2026 strong, focused, united, and ready to lead.

Blessings,

Janelle Capra President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber

TICKETS ON SALE

2026

BOARD INSTALLATION & AWARDS LUNCHEON

JANUARY 21, 2026 To secure tickets or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact sadams@bakochamber.com.

Presented by

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CASA of Kern County receives "Nonprofit of the Year" Award Receiving the Beautiful Bakersfield Award for Nonprofit of the Year is a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community refuses to leave its most vulnerable children behind. At CASA of Kern County, this recognition belongs to our volunteers, staff, board members, and partners who believe that every child in foster care deserves at least one consistent, caring adult in their corner.

Having a CASA is not just a concept. It is tangible, life-changing advocacy. It is a 14-year old who once ran away from foster homes and endured relentless bullying at school, now finding stability in a safe home where she is valued and supported. It is a young person who talks to her CASA nearly every day, finally trusting that someone will stay. It is a 17-year old preparing to graduate high school and enter the military, knowing she has someone cheering her on, celebrating her milestones, and advocating for her future.

CASA volunteers are trained community members appointed by a judge to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. They gather information, build relationships, and make recommendations to the court that prioritize a child’s safety, wellbeing, and long-term stability. Research shows that children with a CASA are more likely to find permanent homes more quickly, receive needed services, are four times more likely to graduate high school, and are 50% less likely to experience homelessness after aging out of the foster care system. They spend less time in care and experience fewer placement changes, outcomes that can shape METRO | PAGE 6

Nominations for the 2026 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards are open!

the trajectory of a child’s entire life and shape our community.

In Kern County alone, thousands of children navigate the foster care system at any given time. CASA of Kern County currently serves hundreds of those children each year, but the need continues to outpace the number of available volunteers. This award brings much needed visibility to the work and underscores the importance of community involvement, whether through volunteering, partnership, or support.

Being named Nonprofit of the Year is both an honor and a responsibility. It reinforces our commitment to expanding our reach so that no child must navigate the foster care system alone. This recognition reflects a Bakersfield that believes every child deserves to be seen, heard, and fought for—and that one caring adult can change the course of a life.

- Heaven Vasquez, PR & Development Manager, CASA of Kern County

The Beautiful Bakersfield Awards is the biggest night in Bakersfield’s civic life, recognizing individuals, businesses and organizations for accomplishments completed during the prior year to improve quality of life and help make Bakersfield better.

Nominate your favorite individual, business, or organization by Friday, Jan. 30, 2026!

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In Your Wildest Dreams

Building Community Through Small Business In downtown Bakersfield, In Your Wildest Dreams is changing what it means to shop local. More than a retail destination, the two-story consignment, antiques, and vendor mall has become a gathering place, one where creativity, entrepreneurship, and community connection come together under one roof.

Incorporated in 2003, In Your Wildest Dreams has long been part of Bakersfield’s small business landscape. In June 2024, longtime customers and vendors Tina and Gabe Ulloa stepped into ownership, marking a new chapter for the beloved downtown institution. What began as a shared passion for collecting, vintage finds, and supporting small businesses has evolved into a responsibility to steward nearly one hundred local vendors and makers.

Today, the space features a thoughtfully curated mix of antiques, home goods, boutique clothing, furniture, art, collectibles, and vintage electronics. Signature areas such as The Retro Handheld gaming and trading card section, Thrifty Readers, one of the few remaining used bookstores in Bakersfield, and Jittery Geeks specialty coffee bar reflect the diversity of both the METRO | PAGE 10

products and the people who bring the store to life.

Under the Ulloas’ leadership, the store has been intentionally reorganized to enhance the customer experience. By grouping similar vendors, the shopping journey is more intuitive and welcoming, reinforcing a clean, modern atmosphere while preserving the nostalgic charm that defines the space.

While the merchandise draws people in, it is the sense of connection that keeps them coming back. In Your Wildest Dreams regularly hosts live music during Second Saturday, parking lot pop-ups, and creative gatherings that bring together families, friends, and neighbors. These moments, the Ulloas say, are a reminder that small businesses play a vital role in building community, not just commerce.

That role was especially visible during Small Business Saturday.

“This past weekend was one of the busiest we have ever had,” said co-owner Gabe Ulloa. “Black Friday and Small Business Saturday brought an incredible wave of energy through the store. From open to close,

people showed up, not just for us, but for the nearly one hundred small businesses who make this space what it is.”

For Gabe, Small Business Saturday highlights the broader economic and civic impact of shopping local.

An estimated 68 cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays within the community, supporting local jobs, nonprofits, artists, schools, and community programs.

“Shopping small directly fuels the work that local entrepreneurs pour their entire hearts into,” said Gabe.

“Because people continue to support us, we are able to turn around and give back.”

In the weeks leading up to Small Business Saturday, Ulloa leveraged his background in public relations and communications to amplify the Shop Small message across Bakersfield, appearing on television, radio, and in print to advocate for local businesses citywide.

The effort helped shine a spotlight not only on In Your Wildest Dreams but also on the importance of sustaining Bakersfield’s small-business ecosystem.

That commitment to community extends beyond retail. Inside the store, shoppers will find a dedicated shelf supporting the Apple Core Project, with 100 percent of proceeds from Apple Core blanket sales benefiting food pantries and programs addressing food insecurity across Kern County. Tina and Gabe are also building Dreams Reimagined, a nonprofit focused on sustainability and reuse, giving quality items a second life and promoting more mindful consumption.

As the holiday season continues, In Your Wildest Dreams remains a destination for shoppers seeking meaningful gifts and local experiences. With inventory changing daily, seasonal events, visits from Santa, and an ever-evolving mix of vendors, each visit offers something new.

Ultimately, In Your Wildest Dreams represents the power of small businesses to do more than sell goods. It supports entrepreneurship, fosters creativity, and strengthens community ties, one purchase, one connection, and one dream at a time.

Learn more at buywildestdreams.com.

“Every decision to shop small matters It’s the reason we get to keep building something special here in Bakersfield.”

- Gabe Ulloa METRO | PAGE 11

Arts Council of Kern

Empowering Creativity and Strengthening Bakersfield

For nearly 50 years, the Arts Council of Kern (ACK) has played a vital role in shaping Kern County’s cultural and creative landscape. Founded in 1977, the organization continues to expand its impact, most recently with the opening of its new downtown Bakersfield home at 1020 18th Street.

Under the leadership of Jeanette Richardson, Executive Director, the Arts Council of Kern has transformed its downtown presence into a dynamic hub for creativity, commerce, and community. The expanded space now includes a Gallery, Makers Market, and Learning Center, alongside ACK’s administrative offices, bringing artists, makers, and the public together in one highly active location.

“At the Arts Council of Kern, we empower artists, makers, and creative entrepreneurs,” Richardson shared during a recent press conference tied to the Shop Small® campaign. “And nowhere is that ecosystem more alive than in spaces like In Your Wildest Dreams and in the small-business community we are celebrating.”

That ecosystem is on full display at ACK’s Makers Market, which features locally made art, gifts, and METRO | PAGE 12

handcrafted goods and is fully stocked for the holiday season. In December, the Arts Council extended hours and hosted special programming to invite the community into the space, culminating with Carol-OKE: Cowboy Christmas Karaoke.

The Arts Council’s mission, to provide arts access, advocacy, and education to all Kern County residents, also reflects a broader commitment to growing the county’s Creative Economy. The downtown building is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with additional artists, artisans, and events hosted on First Fridays and Second Saturdays to activate downtown Bakersfield and support local creators.

“The arts and small business share something powerful,” said Richardson. “Both begin with a dream.

A dream to build something meaningful. A dream to create something beautiful. A dream to share something with the world.”

As a partner in the local American Express Shop Small® and Small Business Saturday campaign, the Arts Council of Kern played a key role in promoting downtown activity and encouraging residents to support local businesses during the holiday season.

"Every purchase you make locally builds dreams and strengthens our community."

-Jeanette Richardson For ACK, Small Business Saturday was about retail, storytelling, placemaking, and preserving Bakersfield's character.

“The Shop Small® movement is not just economic, it’s cultural,” emphasized Richardson. “It’s about preserving the character of our city and showcasing the artistry of our people. When we shop locally, we aren’t just purchasing a product. We are investing in the hopes and livelihoods of the creators behind it.”

Collaboration is central to ACK’s work. The organization partners closely with chambers of commerce throughout Kern County, the Downtown Business Association, and the City of Bakersfield to strengthen business districts and expand access to arts-driven experiences. Being rooted in the Downtown and East Chester communities allows the Arts Council to serve as both a known institution and a welcoming entry point for new audiences.

As the organization looks ahead to 2026, the Arts Council of Kern is preparing for an ambitious start to the year. January will bring a refreshed Makers Market,

a full slate of learning opportunities, and the launch of a new gallery exhibition. Cutting Edge: Art Off The Wall will celebrate unconventional and boundarypushing art forms, from custom skateboard decks and metalworks to sculptural builds and mixed-material creations. Submissions are due January 9, with the exhibition running January 16–30.

As Richardson concluded in her remarks, the message is simple but powerful: “Every purchase you make locally builds dreams and strengthens our community. Whether it’s a handcrafted gift, a curated vintage piece, artwork for your home, or a holiday experience hosted by a local business, your choice matters.”

Through leadership, partnerships, and place-based investment, the Arts Council of Kern continues to demonstrate how the arts and small businesses together fuel a more vibrant, connected, and creative Bakersfield.

Learn more at kernarts.org.

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Holiday Mixer 2025

Spreading cheer and celebrating community The holiday season was in full swing at the Greater Bakersfield Chamber’s Annual Holiday Mixer, hosted on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Lino's Venue. It was a morning filled with festive cheer, meaningful connections, and celebration of all that was accomplished this year.

Guests enjoyed a delicious breakfast spread prepared by Lino’s Venue, while they mingled and entered for a chance to win exclusive raffle prizes. DJ Danny Hill brought the holiday spirit as emcee, filling the room with music and laughter. We also heard from 2025 Board Chair Deanna Blaise, who reflected on the past year, and incoming 2026 Chair Dr. Vernon Harper, who spoke about what’s to come in 2026.

This mixer wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our sponsors: Valley Strong Credit Union, Dignity Health - Mercy & Memorial Hospitals, Vibe Marketing Agenci, Hill Broadcasting, Centre for Neuroskills, Linean, The Marcom Group, and Mission Bank.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Board of Directors, Ambassadors, sponsors, and members for their ongoing support. We were honored to close out the year celebrating with you!

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and joyful holiday season.

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Photos courtesy of Lettratto

VIEW PHOTOS

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BYP HolidayLights at CALM

Wrapping up BYP's first year since its relaunch Bakersfield Young Professionals (BYP) kicked off the holiday season in unforgettable fashion with an exclusive CALM HolidayLights Experience at The Willows at CALM Zoo, bringing together young professionals from across Kern County for an evening of connection, celebration, and community.

Hosted in partnership with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS), which owns and operates CALM Zoo, the private event provided attendees with VIP access to HolidayLights while supporting BYP programming and leadership development initiatives. The evening reflected BYP’s mission to foster meaningful relationships, professional growth, and civic engagement among emerging leaders in the region.

Guests enjoyed festive appetizers, drinks, and networking opportunities set against the dazzling HolidayLights display. The program featured a keynote address by Alex Fisher, Director of Communications at SISC and a Bakersfield native, who shared reflections on storytelling, leadership, and the importance of staying connected to community. Fisher, a former KGET-TV 17 anchor, spoke about the value of investing in relationships and embracing opportunities to lead with purpose, messages that resonated strongly with the BYP audience.

The evening also included a special live performance

by Venessa Marie of Hot Mess Express, whose METRO | PAGE 16

acoustic set added warmth and holiday spirit to the celebration.

BYP Chair Joel Paramo, Senior Director of Strategic Communications for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, welcomed attendees and recognized the partners and volunteers who made the event possible. Special thanks were extended to KCSOS for its partnership and to supporting sponsors Dignity Health Mercy and Memorial Hospitals, Bank of America, ReadyWork Ag Inc., and Valley Strong Credit Union for their continued investment in young professional leadership in the greater Bakersfield region.

Paramo also acknowledged the dedication of the 2025 BYP Council, whose leadership helped guide the program's successful relaunch earlier this year.

The council has worked throughout 2025 to expand BYP’s impact through service projects, professional development opportunities, and signature networking events.

Want to get involved in 2026? Visit www. bakochamber.com/BYP to learn more.

VIEW PHOTOS Photos courtesy of Lettratto

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2026 2024 CATEGORIES: A Better Bakersfield

An annual event or project that greatly improves the quality of life in Bakersfield.

Architecture & Design

The completion of an innovative new building or space, showcasing an outstanding interior or exterior design that harmonizes with its environment.

Arts & Culture

Efforts by a group or individual to enrich and elevate arts and culture within the Bakersfield community.

Urban Core

An individual, business, or coalition working to make downtown Bakersfield safer, more vibrant and economically thriving.

Educational Excellence

An Educator, project or institution advancing educational opportunities and achievement across all levels in the community.

Health & Wellness

An individual, group or organization going beyond their normal activities to promote healthy living through education, prevention or medical services.

Heart of Hospitality

Exceptional team members in lodging, food & beverage, events, travel and recreation who go above and beyond to deliver outstanding guest experiences and contribute to service excellence.

Humanitarian Individual

An individual whose personal volunteer efforts have significantly impacted the community.

Submit your nominations today at beautiful.bakochamber.com!

Humanitarian Group

A group whose dedicated volunteer work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of Bakersfield residents

Emerging Nonprofit

A nonprofit organization (1-10 years old) who made a significant impact on the community through its grassroots initiatives.

Nonprofit of the Year

Honors a nonprofit organization for its significant and lasting impact on the community.

Small Business of the Year

A small business (25 employees or fewer) whose contributions, products, or services instill pride and benefit the community.

Large Business/Corporation of the Year

A business recognized for its substantial impact through volunteer work, donations or community engagement.

Next Gen

A young individual or group (grades K-12) with exceptional citizenship and community involvement.

Young Professional

An individual (ages 18-40) whose contributions have significantly enhanced the quality of life in Bakersfield.

Business Person of the Year

A local business owner/manager whose efforts truly impact and enhance the quality of life in the community.

Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement Award

A local, long-time community leader, age 55 and over, who has made a lasting impact on Bakersfield and its residents.

Nominations must be for work completed in 2025 to be eligible for consideration. No more than two nominations per individual, business or organization will be considered.

Nomination Deadline: Friday, January 30, 2026

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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.

American Family Care 12716 Stockdale Hwy Suite 700 Bakersfield, CA 93314 (661) 509-8001 “Urgent care clinic.”

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.

Aspire Counseling Services - 2016 Bakersfield Country Club - 1994 Braun Gosling, A Law Corporation - 2010 Denison Werner, LLP - 2012 Drybar Bakersfield - 2023

California Safety Training Corporation 2130 Brundage Lane Bakersfield, CA 93304 (661) 377-8300 cstc.com “ California Safety Training Center (CSTC) provides workplace safety training, certifications, and compliance programs to help businesses meet regulatory requirements and create safer, more prepared work”

Employers' Training Resource - 1984 Emser Tile - 2015

Caring Corner 942 Wible Rd Bakersfield, CA 93304 (661) 847-7342 caringcorner.org “Caring Corner is a Pediatric Day Health Care (PDHC) serving medically fragile and developmentally delayed children and young adults from birth through 21 years old.”

The Marcom Group Incorporated - 1999 M.D. Atkinson Company, Inc. - 1994

Harrell Holdings 1707 Eye St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 840-7342 harrell-holdings.com “ A commercial real estate company offering a variety of spaces for businesses in Kern County including patio and parking lot event space rentals.”

Kooke 3501 Mall View Rd. #115-297 Bakersfield, CA 93306 (661) 303-5225 hellokooke.com “We help Bakersfield individuals and families repair credit, remove inaccuracies, and build financial stability through expert guidance, education, and personalized credit-improvement strategies.”

Rescue Grounds Coffee Company 420 34th Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-808-4673 https://www.facebook.com/Rescuegrounds/ “We are an anti-trafficking organization that fights sex trafficking and employs sex trafficking survivors on our coffee truck and affords them the ability to earn a dignified living while empowering them to greatness.”

Sunrise Mechanical Contractors, Inc. 3930 Alken St. Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 595-4533 sunrisemechanicalcontractors.com “Our company provides comprehensive industrial construction and mechanical services across a wide range of facilities, including dairies, refineries, food processing plants, and cement plants.”

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Good Samaritan Hospital - 2011 Keathley, Maxell & Antongiovanni, LLP - 1990 Kern Council of Governments - 1990 Law Offices of Robert H. Brumfield, P.C. 2010

Open & Shut Enterprises - 2000 Payment Systems Worldwide - 1999 ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers - 2024 Telehealthdocs Medical Group - 2016 Universal Healthcare IPA, Inc. - 2023 Valley Children's Healthcare - 2012

Member News

Upcoming Events

Independent Living Center of Kern County (ILCKC) is proud to announce receiving the Friends of Mercy Foundation Sister Phyllis Hughes/Sister Judy Morasci Endowment Grant. The award is $15,000 and is being used to repair and purchase durable medical equipment to assist individuals with disabilities with mobility. All funds will be expended by July 31st, 2026.

Tuesday, Jan. 6 Government Review Council Meeting • Noon | Greater Bakersfield Chamber Ribbon Cuttings • 11 a.m. | AFC Urgent Care • 4 p.m. | Kern Magazine LLC

The program helps people with disabilities increase mobility and reduce social isolation, promoting independence and autonomy. It also reduces landfill waste and fills critical equipment gaps in Kern County.

The Independent Living Center of Kern County accepts donations of new and gently used durable medical equipment such as walkers, rollators, canes, wheelchairs, power wheelchairs and scooters.

These items are fixed and donated to individuals who need them. To donate, please call 661-325-1063.

Bakersfield Life is taking nominations for their inaugural 20 Over 60, recognizing those 60 years or older whose contributions have made their professions, families and communities stronger.

Nominate today at https://www.bakersfield.com/site/forms/20over-60/. Nominations close on Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 5 p.m.

Global Family & the Daughter Project is the only local organization providing 24/7 wraparound care for girls ages 12–17 who have survived commercial sexual exploitation. Their work restores hope, protects vulnerable children, and helps prevent future trafficking in our community. The 'Best of Bakersfield' Gala is your chance to stand with them.

Join them on Saturday, April 18, 2026, for a powerful night with a purpose. Reserve your table or tickets today at https:// www.globalfamily.care/best-of-bakersfield or by emailing gala@ globalfamily.org and be part of a community committed to giving every child the chance to heal, grow, and thrive.

Wednesday, Jan. 7 Kern County Chambers Roundtable • 8:30 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber Ribbon Cutting • 10 a.m. | Toucan Trolley by GET Bus, at the Greater Bakersfield Chamber Thursday, Jan. 8 Ribbon Cutting • 10:30 a.m. | Mokha Cafe Leadership Bakersfield 2026 Kickoff • 11 a.m. | The Padre Hotel Tuesday, Jan. 13 Ribbon Cutting • 4 p.m. | Radiant Waxing Bakersfield Thursday, Jan. 15 Ribbon Cutting • 4 p.m. | Caring Corner

Inspired Expectations LLC, founded by Obed “Coach” Bey, provides Mindfulness for High-Stress Work Environments — a wellness and professional development program designed for healthcare, education, and human services professionals. After years of leading mindfulness sessions for incarcerated youth, Coach Bey adapted these same evidence-based practices to support frontline professionals working under constant pressure.

Organizations interested in a complimentary 30-minute demo session can reach us directly at info@inspiredexpectations.com.

Learn more at www.InspiredExpectations.com.

Wednesday, Jan. 21 Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon • 11 a.m. | Seven Oaks Country Club

Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County, Inc. (ADAKC) released a new Impact Report. Read the report on their website!

Friday, Jan. 23 Government Review Council Meeting • 8 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber

•

"Every smile, breakthrough, and moment of connection at ADAKC is possible because of you—our incredible community.

As Alzheimer’s and dementia continue to rise across Kern County, ADAKC’s new Impact Report highlights how we’re meeting this urgent need: reflecting on where we’ve been, celebrating the strength of today’s programs, and sharing the hopeful path ahead. Thank you for helping us change lives and build a brighter tomorrow for every local family on the Alzheimer’s and dementia journey."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE MEMBER NEWS

Thursday, Jan. 22 Ribbon Cutting • 4 p.m. | MindDivers

Tuesday, Jan. 27 Ambassador Committee Meeting • Noon | Valley Strong Administrative Offices Thursday, Jan. 29 Labor Law & HR Forum • 8 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber Ribbon Cutting • 11 a.m. | Rescue Grounds Coffee Company Friday, Jan. 30 Bakersfield Young Professionals Meeting • 8 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber

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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

ARRC Technology, a professional IT company, operates on the belief that "technology should be a catalyst for progress." Since 1992, ARRC has served clients in a range of industries, providing reliable computer hardware, securing networks, streamlining operations, and keeping businesses safe from cybersecurity threats. Their experienced team helps clients solve problems and move forward with technology. Visit arrc.com to learn more.

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

MAJOR INVESTORS

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

CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS

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.

METRO | PAGE 22

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