Metro July 2025 by Greater Bakersfield Chamber

Ready to Change Your

Highgate is Ready to Help.

Highgate at Seven Oaks is a prestigious master planned residential community in the very best Castle & Cooke tradition. Majestic, gated entries with lush landscaping lead to multiple lifestyle-oriented neighborhoods. Residents connect with one another through unique resort-style amenities for year-round family-friendly recreation, adventure, and outdoor activity.

INSIDE On the

Read a message from our President/CEO, Janelle Capra

Celebrate

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.

Greater Bakersfield Chamber CEO Janelle Capra, Mayor Karen Goh, and City Manager Christian Clegg at the 2025 State of the City Luncheon.

Photos taken by Gisselle Fernando, of Letratto.

Message from the CEO

All Gas, No

Brakes:

Highlights That Moved Us For ward

From packed rooms to powerful partnerships, this month was full of action, impact, and momentum. The Chamber was on the move, bringing people together, amplifying voices, and celebrating the incredible progress happening across Greater Bakersfield.

We kicked things off with one of our most anticipated signature events of the year: the 2025 State of the City Luncheon, presented by Adventist Health. Held on Wednesday, July 16, this event brought together hundreds of local business owners, civic leaders, and community partners under the theme "Growing Stronger Together." City Manager Christian Clegg and Mayor Karen Goh delivered thoughtful remarks outlining the city’s recent achievements and bold vision for the future.

This year, we also made it a point to connect with our local city councilmembers to highlight progress in each ward. We also ensured that each councilmember received an invitation to attend! The program touched on timely issues, from housing and homelessness to infrastructure and public safety, and showcased Bakersfield’s collaborative spirit. The Chamber applauds our City’s leadership for their transparency and commitment to progress. Events like this remind us that strong public-private partnerships are valuable and essential.

This month’s issue also spotlights one of our 2025 Beautiful Bakersfield Award winners: the North of the River Recreation & Park District’s Annual Christmas Parade. I was asked to serve as judge in 2024 and can personally attest to the heartwarming impact this parade has on our community. NOR continues to deliver exceptional programming and resources that uplift families in North Bakersfield.

We also had the privilege of hosting Alondra Velazquez, a Summer Jobs Program intern from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County. A Bakerfield High School Freshman, Alondra quickly became a bright light at the Chamber, contributing meaningfully and learning fast. Watching her grow over five weeks reminded us why investing in young talent matters. Congratulations to Alondra and all the BGCKC interns on completing the program!

Thank you to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County for championing youth empowerment and building a pipeline of future leaders. We can’t wait to see what these students accomplish next.

At this month’s Ambassador Committee meeting, we were joined by Dr. Aggarwal of Aggarwal Cardiology, who led a fun and informative heart trivia session. Attendees also enjoyed refreshing snow cones from Chamber member Kona Ice, along with a healthy lunch provided by Dr. Aggarwal and The Phoenix Club at Sundale. Thank you for keeping our Ambassadors nourished, both body and mind!

Looking ahead, mark your calendars for Wednesday, Sept. 24, and plan to attend our Report from the Capitol luncheon with Congressman Vince Fong. Congressman Fong will provide insight into federal advocacy efforts, including his call to redirect $4 billion from the high-speed rail project into much-needed California freeway improvements. His recent work in Congress continues to elevate the Greater Bakersfield region.

Thank you for your support, your partnership, and your investment in our community’s future. We are indeed growing stronger, together.

Janelle Capra President & CEO

Leadership Bakersﬁeld (LB) is a long-standing tradition that brings together a group of individuals from across the city and engages them in the issues and assets crucial to Bakersﬁeld’s future. This high-caliber program equips today’s leaders with the knowledge and skills to lead in our rapidly changing and interconnected world. Each session is designed to educate participants on various industry sectors and key community issues.

Sessions also focus on leadership, health & human services, energy, arts & culture, media & communications, government, education, law enforcement and agriculture. Through top-tiered speakers and panels in essential industries, exclusive tours and hands-on activities, LB is developing the next generation of leaders in Bakersﬁeld. Participants are also tasked with designing a project that fulﬁlls the community’s needs. Each year, LB teams create programs and projects that funnel thousands of dollars into our community that impact the lives of hundreds of individuals.

Applications for the 2026 class open August 1, 2025

Scan to learn more

North of the River Recreation & Parks District Celebrate "A Better Bakersfield"

When a few of us from the NOR Leadership Team arrived at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, we already felt honored just to be nominated. After all, the Annual NOR Christmas Parade has been more than just an event to us -- it’s a beloved tradition that’s brought Bakersfield together for over 50 years. It’s also a reflection of NOR’s commitment to the community through recreation and fun

Right before NOR’s name was called, we had just been commenting on how inspiring the other nominees were — each of them doing incredible work in Bakersfield. So, when North of the River’s name was announced as the recipient of the ‘A Better Bakersfield’ award, it was both humbling and deeply affirming.

Anyone who’s worked in public service or community programming knows: nothing happens alone. This award represents decades of dedication, shared by everyone who has ever had a hand in bringing the parade to life — from the original team who launched it during the 1973 oil crisis, to every staff member, community group, and family shows up year after year. An event of this size — and with this much heart — is achieved through genuine care, a shared purpose in enriching everyday life for all who live here, and the kind of collaboration that brings out the best in a community.

As NOR marks its 70th anniversary, we›ve been reflecting on how much of our work is about building moments that matter. The Beautiful Bakersfield Award is a celebration of those moments — and a reminder that the magic of the parade isn't powered by fuel, but by people. It's the dedicated staff who plan every detail, the volunteers who show up rain or shine, the performers and participants that bring it to life, and the families that unfold their lawn chairs to line up along North Chester Avenue every second Saturday in December. If you ask us what makes Bakersfield beautiful, we'd say it's exactly the same thing that makes the parade so special — it’s the people.

NOR is deeply grateful for this recognition, and more inspired than ever to keep moving forward — one step and one memory at a time.

-Jasmin LoBasso, MBA, MLIS Director of Community Relations, North of the River Recreation & Park District

Photos: BB Award Acceptance photo & Christmas Parade photos

A Legacy of Fun: NOR Hosts First-Ever Drone Light Show

NOR's legacy is coming to life in a big way at the 70th Anniversary Festival, a day filled with joy and the kind of community pride that's carried the District from 1955 to today.

Join the fun on Saturday, Oct. 11, when the sky over Polo Community Park will come alive with an original display of synchronized drones, filling the air with motion, color, and light in a choreographed performance. The fun begins at 3pm with carnival-themed games, bounce houses, a home run derby, and delicious food. The Festival will all build to a thrilling and novel 7:30pm finale, when the drone show takes flight — an awe-inspiring experience that launches community celebrations into the future.

This event is FREE, and we're still welcoming sponsors through the NOR Recreation Foundation and partners through the District to help make this milestone event even more spectacular. Shine a light on your business while supporting a one-of-a-kind community celebration! To get involved, email us at jlobasso@norrecreation.org.

THE FUN HAS JUST BEGUN: Upcoming NOR Facilities & Future Plans

70 Years of Fun: And We're Just Getting Started

While we've taken the time this year to honor where we've been, NOR is equally excited about where we're headed. Just as those before us built the foundation of the District we enjoy today, we're laying the groundwork for what's next -- with new facilities, new programs, and new ways to serve our community for the next 70 years and beyond. From recent upgrades to new spaces, we're planning with intention and guided by the same dedication to the people of the North of the River community that NOR was founded on. We're proud to keep creating places, programs, and possibilities that bring us together.

UNLEASHING FUN: Bark Park at Polo Community

A brand-new dog park is coming soon to Polo Community Park, and we can't wait to welcome our four-legged friends and their humans to this pawsome new space. This will be more than just a patch a grass. Expect separate areas for large and small dogs, dog play equipment for enrichment and agility, and plenty of seating for pet owners. Since 1955, NOR has been building parks and programs that respond to how people live, play, and connect -- and today, dogs are a big part of family life. This addition to Polo reflects that.

Stockdale River Ranch Park

Right in the heart of the growing Stockdale River Ranch community, there's a new park on the way! Spanning 8 acres, there will be a full-size tennis court, multiple pickleball courts, and a picnic shelter available upon completion of phase one of the project. This is NOR's first developer-built park and its 25th park in the District.

TRANSFORMED & READY: Riverview Gymnasium

We're excited to unveil the completely renovated gymnasium at the Riverview Community Center! Fresh paint and refurbished floors bring the history of this beloved space to life. For our community members who love wooden floors, this gym is aperfect setting for basketball, volleyball, and pickleball!

CHALLENGE

ACCEPTED: Tournaments at NOR Get ready to compete, have fun, and show off your skills at NOR Tournaments! From our Neighborhood Cornhole Tournaments (August-September 2025; $40/team) to Mixed Pickles: Pickleball Tournament (January 24, 2026; $80/team), NOR is serving up more opportunities for friendly competition. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, there's a spot for you to join the fun!

MOVING TOGETHER: Fitness Programs

Whether you're looking to break a sweat or find your rhythm, our expanded fitness offerings have something for everyone in NOR! From energizing group workouts at TotalFit Circuit ($69 for a 4-week session) to expressive dance classes at Step Into Motion (Thursdays at 10am-12pm; $8/class), we're creating more ways for our community to get active. These new programs reflect our ongoing commitment to health, wellness, and the joy of moving together.

ON THE GO: NOR Mobile App

It's easier than ever to stay connected to NOR with our brand-new mobile app! Sign up for activities, classes, and events right from your phone. View your past transactions and activities in one place and get updates and reminders about your favorite programs and facilities. Download today (Search 'NOR Rec & Park' in your app stores) and take NOR with you wherever you go!

KDA Celebrates A Decade of Impact at MOVE — a Once in a Decade, Black Tie Affair

Kern Dance Alliance (KDA) is celebrating a decade of impactful work by pulling back the curtain of the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater. MOVE, presented by Dignity Health, on September 20, 2025, will feature exclusive entertainment and elevated cuisine in an evening unlike any the public has seen before.

You are invited to help move the Central Valley by joining KDA for their once in a decade fundraiser by becoming a sponsor or an esteemed VIP. A black-tie affair offering white-glove service, MOVE will illuminate your imagination and spark your love for the arts.

Consider a variety of options for charitable giving by reviewing their MOVE Sponsorship Opportunities or by purchasing a VIP table to support KDA in creating impactful change in the region through the arts over the next decade.

Since 2015, KDA has successfully served nearly 200,000 people, elevating Central Valley communities through arts services and programs. By enhancing the ways people engage in arts and culture, KDA has strengthened our community through transformational programs that impact a variety of sectors, demographics, and geographies, while promoting economic development and prosperity in the San Joaquin Valley.

“arts leader” in the state of California, and, most recently, nominated as the 2025 “American Dance Organization of the Year” hosted by the National Dance Education Organization.

MOVE sponsorships offer numerous opportunities for brand recognition across KDA’s platforms alongside exclusive benefits tailored to showcase your support for KDA’s mission.

With your partnership, KDA can expand its reach, offer more transformative arts experiences, establish a stronger cultural legacy in the Valley, and contribute to enhanced regional economic development and prosperity.

Their accomplishments include KDA named as the 2024 “Beautiful Bakersfield Arts and Culture Awardee,” raising $5 million to support arts and culture in our community, recognition as an

For more information on MOVE, visit kerndance.org/ MOVE or connect with the MOVE team at move@kerndance.org.

City of the State

Growing Stronger Together

City

Leaders Highlight Growth & Unity at Chamber’s 2025 State of the City

Mayor Goh and City Manager Clegg outline progress, priorities & community impact

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber hosted the 2025 State of the City luncheon, presented by Adventist Health, at the Bakersfield Marriott Downtown, on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. Hundreds of local businesses, civic, and community leaders gathered to hear City Manager Christian Clegg and Mayor Karen Goh speak on the city's achievements, priorities, and future goals under the theme “Growing Stronger Together.”

This annual event, recognized as one of the Chamber’s premier business forums, provided an opportunity for city leadership to share updates on projects affecting public safety, housing, homelessness, economic development, infrastructure, and community engagement.

Clegg opened the program by addressing Bakersfield’s rapid growth and the City’s continued commitment to strategic investment and service improvements.

“Together, because we can’t do it alone, and so much is possible by working together,” said Clegg. “Stronger, because we get better and stronger every year. By

Greater Bakersfield Chamber President & CEO Janelle Capra, City Manager Christian Clegg, and Mayor Karen Goh.

the numbers and by tangible improvements, we are stronger.”

Clegg reported that Bakersfield gained more than 8,000 new residents in the past year alone, highlighting the city’s appeal due to its affordability, opportunity, and quality of life. While growth brings challenges in housing, safety, and infrastructure, he emphasized the City's proactive approach.

“Growth is an opportunity; it is also a challenge,” he said. “A city needs to guide, shape, encourage, and plan for growth. We’ve made generational investments to ensure our city is safe, vibrant, and positioned for the future.”

Goh closed the program by celebrating community collaboration and shared vision.

“It’s in our shared vision, our unity, our working collaboratively, that our city indeed is growing stronger together,” said Goh. “The sound of Bakersfield is a growing harmony of voices joined in the work of community building.”

She highlighted the City’s continued leadership in housing growth among California’s ten largest cities but also acknowledged the ongoing challenges of homelessness.

“Homelessness continues to be one of California’s

Pictured abovefrom left to right: Raquel Jimenez, April McGill, Perry Finzel, Savanah Adams, Lorrie Guinn-Magers, NaTesha Johnson, Janelle Capra, Shontay Smith, Joel Paramo, Kami Gonzalez, Kristel Pollock, Teri Nicholson, Roberta Nilsson

Below, Mayor Karen Goh

City Manager Christian Clegg

paramount issues,” she said. “Our state has 12% of the nation’s total population but nearly 50% of the nation’s unsheltered homeless.”

Goh emphasized Bakersfield’s data-driven outreach approach and praised key partnerships with organizations such as CityServe, Flood Ministries, CAPK, and the Mission at Kern County for helping expand emergency shelter and housing options.

Both leaders encouraged continued public engagement and cross-sector collaboration.

“As we grow stronger together, we must continue to listen, learn, and lead,” said Goh. “Let us keep advancing, side by side, lifting up every corner of our community.”

The Chamber applauded the City for its transparency and leadership.

“This event is a reminder of the power of publicprivate partnerships,” said President & CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber Janelle Capra. “We’re grateful to Mayor Goh, City Manager Clegg and our City Councilmembers for their leadership, and to our members for their continued investment in a more vibrant Bakersfield.”

Presented by

"As we grow stronger together , we must continue to listen, learn, and lead," said Goh. Let us keep advancing, side by side, lifting up every corner of our community."

Top picture: Greater Bakersfield Chamber staff

Bottom picture: Mayor Karen Goh

Guests, sponsors, and speakers at the 2025 State of the City Luncheon

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.

Centro Cali Brewing LLC

716 19th St. Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 229-5602

centrocalibrewing.com

“Centro Cali Brewing is a locally rooted brewery and scratch kitchen serving craft beer, artisan food, and fresh cocktails in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.”

Central Valley AC Inc.

101 Thelma Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93305

“Local HVAC company that services commercial and residential HVAC systems across kern county.”

Panama-Buena Vista Union School District – C&FE Department

4200 Ashe Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 741-4700

pbvusd.k12.ca.us

“The Community and Family Engagement Department fosters strong school-family partnerships through family engagement events, Parent University, and collaboration to support student success.”

Pet Wants Bakersfield West 9530 Hageman Rd., Suite A Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 86309077

petwantsbakersfieldwest.com

“Fresh, small-batch, slow-cooked pet food and natural treats—delivered right to your door. Visit us at the farmers market or at our store, coming soon!”

Planned Exits

13503 Rodin St. Bakersfield, CA 93314 (661) 978-2028

plannedexits.com

“Certified Exit Planner (CEPA & CExP), M&A Advisor, Certified Value Builder, Owner Coach, Keynote Speaker.” Power Hub Bakersfield Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 874-4202

powerhubbakersfield.org

“Our goal is to provide each person with the necessary tools on mastering their mind and leveling up their greatness.”

Rat Bastard Energy 2415 Eye St.

Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 619-1312

ratbastardenergy.com

“Energy drink distributor”

Saguaro Investors LLC

1201 24th St. Suite B110 #222 Bakersfield, CA 93301

(805) 640-5740

“Real Estate Investment & Development. Specifically, Redevelopment of East Chester.”

Special Olympics Kern County

2020 20th St.

Bakersfield, CA 93301

(661) 383-2909

sosc.org

“We are the world’s largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities: with 4.4 million athletes in 170 countries — and millions more volunteers and supporters. We are also a global and social movement through the power of sports, people with intellectual disabilities discover new strengths and abilities, skills, and success. The athletes find joy, confidence and fulfillment — on the playing field and in life. They also inspire people in their communities and elsewhere to open their hearts to a wider world of human talents and potential. Please view the following video to see the full spectrum of our activities.”

V & B Financial Recovery

PO Box 9231

Bakersfield, CA 93389

(661) 874-4202

vbfinancialrecovery.com

“V&B Financial Recovery is a licensed debt collection agency , committed to ethical and compassionate debt collections. Proudly serving our community, we are members of ACA International, the California Association of Collectors, the Black Business Dollar Initiative (BBDI), and now The Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Our dedication to professionalism and integrity helps individuals and businesses navigate debt collection challenges with respect and care.”

Renewing Members

Adventist Health Bakersfield - 1958

Applied Technology Group, Inc. - 2019

Bakersfield Plumbing Company - 2024

Belden Blaine Raytis, LLP - 2015

B.L. Solutions - 2022

Blue Zones Project - 2023

Brookdale Riverwalk - 1999

CASA of Kern County - 1996

CityServe Network - 2019

Commercial Trade Inc. - 1988

Community Action Partnership of Kern - 1995

Community West Bank - 2023

Edward Jones - Crystal Zazueta - 2023

Fallgatter-Rhodes Insurance Services - 1993

First 5 Kern - 2001

Grapevine MSP, LLC - 2013

Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. - 2019 House of Flowers - 2017

H&R Labor Contracting LLC - 2022

Mendiburu Magic Foundation - 2019 Minuteman Press - 1991 Mody Pumps Inc. - 2011

Pacific Western Bank - 2017

Pathway Assisted Living - 2024

Safe 1 Credit Union - 1994

Springstead Solutions - 2020

Stockdale Country Club - 2004

STONE Mentral Health Services - 2023

The Mora Partners, Inc. - 2024

The Wildlands Conservancy Wind Wolves Preserve - 2016

Valley Public Radio - KVPR/KPRX White Ash Broadcasting - 1985

Member News

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County: Through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County'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 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 moregood.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

AltaOne Federal Credit Union: The AltaOne Foundation has just launched the following programs:

AltaOne Foundation’s 2025 Digital Scholarship Program and Reach New Heights Grant Program, two impactful initiatives aimed at supporting the educational aspirations of local students and the vital work of nonprofit organizations in our communities.

2025 Digital Scholarship for high school students, graduating high school seniors, and current college students. The neat thing about this is there is no essay required—just a few social media reels that are financial literacy based mentioning AltaOne. More info here.

For more information on the AltaOne Foundation visit: https://altaone.org/foundation.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday, Aug. 5 GRC

12 p.m. | Chamber

Friday, Aug. 22 GRC

8 a.m. | Chamber

Thursday, Aug. 21 Ribbon Cutting

9 a.m. | Jun BBQ

Tuesday, Aug. 26 Ambassadors Committee Meeting Noon | Chamber

Tuesday, Aug. 26 Ribbon Cutting

4 p.m. | Real Care Living

Thursday, Aug. 28 Coffee with the Chamber 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

Get Social

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

Hall Ambulance is the 911 paramedic provider for 94% of Kern County’s population, serving Bakersfield, Shafter, Delano, and other surrounding cities. Founded in 1971 by Harvey L. Hall, Hall Ambulance offers ambulance operations, administrative support, commercial vehicle services, maintenance, and more.

For more information, visit https://hallamb.com/.