Metro June 2025 ISSUU

Page 1


Night at

MET Bakersfield’s Biggest Night: A Celebration of Community, Creativity, & Unshakable Spirit

Remember how much fun summer vacations were as a kid? Summers are still like that at the Parkshire Pool & Pavilion in Highgate at Seven Oaks. And although you may not be a kid anymore, you can still enjoy living in a community where life feels like a vacation every day.

Located within gated Highgate Park and Highgate Place, the lush green lawns, pickle ball courts, children's playground, giant fire pit, and BBQ facilities of the Parkshire Pool & Pavilion make it easy to live your best life ever!

Actual Highgate at Seven Oaks residents

INSIDE On the

Read a message from our President/CEO, Janelle Capra

Get your tickets & learn more about

Read about Leadership Bakersfield’s

Relive the 2025 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards

Hear from a 2025 Award RecipientJeannette Richardson

Celebrate the grand opening of new businesses

Welcome

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. © Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.

Message from the CEO

A Beautiful Night to Celebrate Bakersfield’s Heartbeat

Each June, the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards offer an opportunity to pause and reflect on the incredible individuals, projects, and organizations that shape our community. This year’s theme, “A Night at the Met,” turned that reflection into a true celebration of local art, expression, and identity. We featured paintings from the Arts Council of Kern and Boys and Girls Club of Kern County, digital animations by CTEC students, Van Goh artistry come to life by Leslie Aldridge, musical guitar moments with Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon and of course, amazing fashion worn by attendees. The Dignity Health Theater & Convention Center was transformed into a gallery of Bakersfield’s best!

Together with our dedicated committee, the Chamber team created a one-of-a-kind evening that honored 700 community members and recognized 99 nominees across 17 categories. Every winner stepped into a golden frame on stage, a symbolic reminder that what makes Bakersfield beautiful is its people. Their stories are our stories.

But beauty in Bakersfield is more than just a celebration; it’s an action. This month, we also took bold steps to ensure that Bakersfield’s business community is prepared for the future. The Chamber partnered with Meta to host one of the nation’s first AI Workshops through its Community Accelerator Program. Local business leaders gained handson training in leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline operations, reach customers, and drive growth, solidifying our commitment to keeping our members competitive in the digital age.

In the spirit of forward-looking leadership, the Chamber remains committed to advocacy efforts that promote economic growth and responsible development. We recently welcomed Lorelei Oviatt, Kern County’s Director of Planning and Natural Resources, for a briefing on the Second Supplemental Recirculated Environmental Impact Report (SSREIR). We support the County’s balanced approach to oil and gas permitting, which aligns with California’s environmental standards while maintaining Kern’s strong economy. On Thursday, June 26, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the revised rezoning ordinance, paving the way for up to 2,700 new oil wells annually. This progress helps ensure energy stability, protects local jobs, and fosters innovation in a key regional industry.

And finally, we were proud to represent Bakersfield on the statewide stage at the 2025 California Chamber Business Outlook and Dinner, where we joined in discussions on international trade, Proposition 36, climate policy, and the future of California’s economy. The event ended with a robust discussion panel from California’s gubernatorial candidates. These forums allow us to amplify Bakersfield’s voice and ensure our business priorities are not only heard but also advanced.

Together, we are building a stronger, smarter, and more beautiful Bakersfield, one celebration, one innovation, and one bold step at a time.

Greater Bakersfield Chamber Blessings,

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"!

Growing Stronger Together

Tickets are now available, until capacity is reached, for the 2025 State of the City, presented by Adventist Health. Recognized as one of Bakersfield’s premier business events, this annual luncheon offers Greater Bakersfield Chamber members an exclusive opportunity to hear directly from City leadership about our community’s progress, priorities, and plans for the future.

The event will take place on Wednesday, July 16, at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center. Check-in and a preevent reception begin at 11:30 a.m., with the luncheon and main program starting promptly at noon.

Mayor Karen Goh and City Manager Christian Clegg, will provide updates on key accomplishments from the past year and share future plans that align with the City’s 2025 Visioning Plan. Attendees can expect an inspirational and data-driven conversation focused on growth, equity, and resilience.

The event’s expanded format includes a special pre-event reception, where

Bakersfield City Council members will greet attendees and highlight top areas of growth within their wards. This interactive element ensures that Chamber Members receive timely, relevant information that directly impacts their businesses and the continued development of our community.

EVENT DETAILS

DATE: Wednesday, July 16

TIME:

• Check-in & reception - 11:30 a.m.

• Luncheon & program - Noon

LOCATION: Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center, 801 Truxtun Ave.

PRICE: $95 per seat or $1,000 for a reserved table of 10

Attendance is exclusive to Chamber Members only.

Exploring the systems that support our community Health & Human Services Day

Health and Human Services Day provided the Leadership Bakersfield class with a meaningful opportunity to explore the complex systems that care for some of Kern County’s most vulnerable residents.

Throughout the day, participants engaged directly with organizations and professionals addressing food insecurity, homelessness, emergency care, and life-saving medical services.

The morning began with a visit to the Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) Food Bank. For many in the class, the scale of food insecurity in our county was both surprising and sobering. CAPK’s role in distributing food throughout Kern County— reaching individuals and families in both rural and urban areas—demonstrated the critical importance of logistics,partnerships, and sustained support in meeting basic human needs.

From there, the class visited the Open Door Network, where they learned about the services provided to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The impact of this organization’s work was immediately evident—not only in the breadth of services offered but in the compassion shown to each person who walks through their doors. The presence of families, including children, reminded us all that homelessness is not a distant issue. It is a local, human challenge that demands a thoughtful and sustained response.

In the afternoon, we toured Dignity Health Memorial Hospital. Participants rotated through a series of hands-on experiences, including CPR training, a walk-through of the cardiac catheterization lab, a demonstration of robotic surgical equipment, and an introduction to the air ambulance program. The air ambulance, in particular, left a strong impression. Its

ability to quickly deliver critical care to remote areas underscored the importance of emergency medical access across our geographically large and diverse county.

Each element of the day connected to a larger theme: health and human services are essential to the well-being of our community. While we were only able to explore a few sectors, the issues we touched on—food insecurity, homelessness, emergency care—are among the most urgent in our region. They are also deeply interconnected.

One of the most important takeaways from the day is that Kern County is home to many dedicated individuals and organizations working hard to support those in need. Their passion and commitment were evident at every stop. Still, the need remains great, and there is much more work to be done.

It is our hope that this day sparked not only a deeper understanding of the challenges we face, but also a sense of responsibility and motivation to continue supporting the health and human services infrastructure that holds our community together.

THANK YOU TO OUR DAY SPONSORS

PROGRAM UNDERWRITER

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

Bakersfield's Brightest Night

A Celebration of Community, Creativity, & Unshakeable Spirit

Many would not expect a city like Bakersfield to sparkle. But on Saturday night, June 14, sparkle it did, in sequins, spirit, and solidarity as more than 700 residents gathered to honor the people, places, and projects that are quietly and powerfully reshaping our community for the better.

Now in its 35th year, the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, presented by Valley Strong Credit Union, have become a cherished civic tradition, a mirror reflecting the heart of a city too often misunderstood. Founded in the mid-1980s by Mary K. Shell, Bakersfield’s first female mayor (1981–1985), the program was created to recognize local excellence. In 1990, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber adopted the program and transformed it into the formal reception and dinner we know today.

Yes, Bakersfield is known for its oil fields and farmland. A stop on the 99. But to those who live here and love it, it’s also a place of bold innovation, deep compassion, and unshakable community pride.

“There were 99 nominees across 16 categories plus the Chairwoman’s Award. Our theme, ‘A Night at the Met,’ was all about celebrating local art in all its forms, from paintings from the Arts Council of Kern and the Boys and Girls Club, digital animated art from students at CTEC, musical art from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon, and live art from Leslie Aldridge,” said President and CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, Janelle Capra. “It all came together with an extra-large gold

2025 Business Person of the Year, Ken Keller and his wife Tara Keller

frame on stage to give every winner the chance to embrace what makes Bakersfield beautiful. Plus, the artistic fashion that was celebrated with 700 people in attendance. It was truly a memorable experience!”

This year’s theme infused the evening with a highfashion nod to creativity, not just in what people wore, but in how they lead, serve, and imagine a better future. From vibrant murals that brighten downtown alleyways to youth-led documentaries amplifying Southeast Bakersfield’s cultural resilience, the stories recognized Saturday night showcased a city alive with ideas and empathy.

Despite the challenges Bakersfield faces and the stereotypes it often bears, the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards reminded everyone that this city is brimming with people who care. People who show up. People who don’t just dream of something better but roll up their sleeves and make it happen.

There’s something contagious happening here. When one person dares to think differently, to launch a nonprofit, open a business, create art, advocate for housing, or reimagine how public space is used, others take notice.

And then they join in. Innovation isn’t isolated in Bakersfield; it spreads. It gathers. It roots itself in the community.

As Capra put it, “Every nominee, every winner, every guest here tonight, they’re proof that Bakersfield is not defined by its headlines. It’s defined by its people. And those people are creating something truly beautiful.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors, Deanna Blaise, and Valley Strong Credit Union representatives and guests.
Humanitarian Individfual of the Year and owner of Barton Marketing Group, Angela Barton and guests.

Whether it’s the musical legacy of the Bakersfield Sound, the grit of our agricultural and energy industries, or the quiet persistence of those who choose to stay and build something new, Bakersfield’s beauty isn’t always loud. But it is lasting.

So, the next time someone questions what’s beautiful about Bakersfield, tell them about this night. About a community that shows up in couture and work boots alike, to celebrate not perfection, but progress, and to honor those who make our city shine from the inside out.

Because in Bakersfield, beauty isn’t just seen. It’s felt. It’s built. And it’s shared.

MEET THE WINNERS

Each award recipient honored at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards exemplifies the spirit of service, innovation and leadership that makes our community shine.

Chairwoman's Award

Cathy Butler

For over 50 years, Cathy Butler has shaped the heart of Bakersfield, organizing more than 100 street fairs, reviving the Christmas Parade and helping to launch the Portrait of a Warrior Gallery. From street ambassadors to music festivals, and from downtown safety to beautification, her leadership has been instrumental in making Bakersfield a vibrant and welcoming community.

Les Clark Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement Award
Sponsored by Hall Ambulance Service
Ken Keller Business Person of the Year – Sponsored by Tri Counties Bank
Shellena Heber Young Professional of the Year – Sponsored by Accelerated Urgent Care

Patrick Zubiran

Next-Gen – Sponsored by Kern County

Superintendent of Schools

Adventist Health

Large Business/Corporation of the Year –Sponsored by Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tejon

New Frontier Consulting

Small Business of the Year – Sponsored by Bank of America

CASA of Kern County

Nonprofit of the Year – Sponsored by Kern Family Health Care

TYME 4 Change

Emerging Nonprofit – Sponsored by Kern Community Foundation

Flood Ministries

Humanitarian Group – Sponsored by Chevron

Angela Barton

Humanitarian Individual – Sponsored by Dignity Health – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Kern Medical - Addiction Medicine Recovery Program Health & Wellness – Sponsored by Heart Vascular and Leg Center

Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation Educational Excellence – Sponsored by California Resources Corporation

Jennifer Williams-Cordova Urban Core – Sponsored by B3K Prosperity

FROM THE WINNER: Arts Council of Kern

Arts & Culture – Sponsored by County of Kern

This year, the Arts Council of Kern is deeply honored to receive the Beautiful Bakersfield Award in the category of Arts and Culture. This recognition is more than a moment of celebration, it’s a tribute to the power of creativity and to the many artists, performers, writers, and visionaries who bring vibrancy to our community every day.

Bakersfield is growing, not just in population or infrastructure, but in spirit, innovation, and imagination. The Arts Council of Kern believes in the transformative role of the arts. Through visual, performing, literary, and media arts, our community becomes a canvas of expression, resilience, and hope. We are proud to serve a city where the creative economy continues to thrive, offering real opportunities for people to live, work, and create in meaningful and inspiring ways.

We share this award with all who contribute to the cultural life of Bakersfield: from muralists painting city walls, to dancers and actors gracing local stages, to the authors, musicians, and filmmakers sharing their stories and rhythms. We extend heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s nominees and to those unsung heroes, not named, who give tirelessly to make Bakersfield a more beautiful, inclusive, and engaging place.

Thank you, to the Greater Bakersfield Chamber for hosting such a momentous and energizing event.

Architecture & Design – Sponsored by

Your continued recognition of the people and organizations who beautify the city helps fuel a culture of positivity and progress.

The Arts Council of Kern, is committed to continuing our mission, fostering access, advocacy, and cultural expression across Kern County. Thank you for believing in us, supporting our work, and helping make Bakersfield a place where the arts not only exist, but also flourish.

Congratulations again on the smashing and successful event!

The Nest - Greenfield Middle School Gymnasium
Annual NOR Christmas Parade A Better Bakersfield – Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente Kern County

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.

Humanitarian Group

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

20242026

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.

Presenting Sponsor

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

Lane

Ave. bakersfield.com

Business Outlook 2025

Chairwoman of the Board Deanna Blaise of Valley Strong Credit Union, Greater Bakersfield Chamber President & CEO Janelle Capra, and Senior Manager of Policy & Public Affairs Savanah Adams joined business leaders from across the state at the 2025 California Chamber Business Outlook and Dinner on June 4.

The event honored Chambers across California and featured insights from Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Economist Christopher Thornberg, highlighting key issues shaping the state’s economic future, such as international trade and tariffs, climate change efforts, and the implementation of Proposition 36.

The evening reception and dinner included a panel of gubernatorial candidates, where attendees heard directly from them about their plans for California’s economy, workforce, and business community.

Thank you to the California Chamber for having us. We continuously work with Cal-Chamber to stay up-to-date for our business community.

Savanah Adams, Janelle Capra and Deanna Blaise

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.

Duro-Last

111 N. Valley Dr. Grant Pass, OR 97526 (530) 517-2382

duro-last.com

“Duro‑Last is a full system roofing provider, offering the widest range of thermoplastic single ply solutions — from Edge to Edge & Deck to Sky™. Whether you choose PVC custom fabricated deck sheets or roll goods, we are committed to delivering a custom experience. This means greater quality control, resulting in reduced on site seaming, rooftop labor and waste without disrupting building operations. Our roofing systems deliver proven chemistry and decades of sound performance, backed by industry leading warranties, recyclability, quality assurance and personalized support from people who stand by every square foot."

Elev8 Fitness

3633 Rosedale Hwy.

Bakersfield, CA 93308

elev-8fitness.com

“We believe in growth at Elev8 Fitness we believe in growth, so we created a space where you can train anytime with no limits. Offering unique, top tier equipment in an environment that elevates you in every step of your journey.”

Insperity

550 N. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA 91203 (714) 330-9434

insperity.com

“Insperity PEO provides HR solutions, including payroll, benefits, compliance, and employee management, helping businesses streamline operations and focus on growth through expert support and services.”

No Bogeys

8800 Crippen St. Suite 300

Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 741-4700

nobogeygolf.com

“No Bogeys Bakersfield is an indoor golf facility. We do custom club fitting, club building, club repair, and practice / playing golf indoors.”

O'Brien Technologies

3232 Rio Miranda Suite B3

Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 432-1301

obrienmsp.com

“O'Brien Technologies is the top cybersecurity provider in Kern County. We are your complete Information Technology service provider. Servicing businesses and organizations of all sizes. Our staff members are trained, certified, and qualified to handle your organization needs!”

Stretch Zone

12716 Stockdale Hwy.

Bakersfield, CA 93314

(661) 340-3086

tactixsecuritysolutions.com

“Utilizing our patented and proprietary equipment, our Stretch Zone practitioners follow specific protocols to properly position, stabilize, and manipulate muscles using powerful principles of neuromuscular.”

V & B Financial Recovery PO Box 9231

Bakersfield, CA 93389

(661) 874-4202

vbfinancialrecovery.com

“Toasted Lane is more than just a bar on wheels— we’re your event’s secret weapon. Whether you’re planning an intimate backyard wedding, a high energy birthday bash, or a corporate mixer that actually feels fun, we show up ready to serve unforgettable drinks and even better vibes. With a beautifully designed mobile setup, professional bartenders, and completely customizable service, we make it easy to host a polished, stress free, and totally memorable event.”

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.

AARC Technology - 1996

Alpha Media, LLC - 2015

Ascend Real Estate and Property Management - 2016 Assistance League of Bakersfield - 2004

Bakersfield Elementary Teachers Association - 1993

Bakersfield SPCA - 2012

Blue Sky Sales, Inc. dba Famoso Nut Company Sales - 1996

Bakersfield Women's Business Conference - 2016

Brimart D, LP - 2017

Centre For Neuro Skills - 1999 Coldwell Banker Preferred - 2023

Dr. Stephen Ratty, Optometrist - 1994

Eagle Mountain Casino - 2004

Edward Jones- Kristine Hertin - 2023

GEI Consultants, Inc. - 2015

Kern Coummity College District - 2017

Kern Health Systems - 2012

Key Staffing Inc. - 2022

Love's Travel Stops - 2024

PINK Legal - 2024

Staples Energy Services - 2019

StructureCast - 1999

Valley Strong Credit Union - 1989

VITAS Healthcare- 2024

XIT Solutions - 2002

| PAGE 22

Member News

The Independent Living Center of Kern County (ILCKC): ILCKC is proud to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by hosting a conference on Thursday, July 24th at the Bakersfield Marriott, 801 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93301.

This event honors the impact of this landmark legislation and provides advocates, community members, and business leaders with an opportunity to explore accessibility issues affecting people with disabilities. It also serves as a platform for networking and collaboration, empowering attendees to drive positive change in Kern County.

Register here for the 2025 Kern County Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Conference.

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

CLICK HERE FOR MORE MEMBER NEWS

Upcoming Events

July 2025

Friday, July 4

Office closed in observance of Independence Day All-day

Wednesday, July 16

State of the City

11:30 a.m. | Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center

Tuesday, July 22

Ambassadors Committee Meeting

Noon | Chamber

Friday, July 25 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

Get Social

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

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