METR
A publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber | October 2026
Leading Today. Protecting Tomorrow.
Brought to you by
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ON THE
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INSIDE CEO MESSAGE
Read a message from your President/CEO, Janelle Capra
6
BEAUTIFUL BAKERSFIELD AWARDS
8
LEADERSHIP BAKERSFIELD
Reflections from winner Kern Family Health Care
Inside Leadership Bakersfield's Government Day
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12 REPORT FROM THE CAPITOL
Key points from the 2026 Report from the Capitol
14 BYP PANEL + MIXER
Learn how BYP got into the spooky spirit
ENDORSED 16 BAKPAC CANDIDATES
See who BAKPAC is endorsing for the upcoming election
17 NEW MEMBERS
Welcome our new Chamber members
19 MEMBER NEWS
Check out what's going on in our community
6 COVER PHOTO Senator Shannon Grove with Gabby Gonzales and Nayeli Rosales from California Resources Corporation, Presenting Sponsor at the 2026 Report from the Capitol.
14 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 2026. 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 October Brings Connection, Leadership, and Community Impact “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” - Helen Keller October has been another wonderful reminder of what makes the Greater Bakersfield Chamber special. As we move further into fall, I am encouraged by the relationships being built, the leadership being demonstrated, and our members' shared commitment to making Bakersfield a stronger place to live, work, and do business. At the Chamber, we believe progress happens when people come together with a shared purpose. This month, I want to highlight four areas that continue to define our work: Connection, Advocacy, Leadership, and Community. Connection Relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We kicked off the month with the inaugural Chairman's Circle Business Breakfast, hosted by Chair-Elect Emily Duran, CEO, Kern Family Health Care. This gathering of our members brought business and community leaders together to discuss priorities for their businesses in the new year. These gatherings remind us of the value of connecting with others who share a commitment to investing in Bakersfield's future. Read more on page 6. We ended the month with the Second Annual Halloween Mixer in partnership with Houchin Community Blood Bank. It was a fun evening of networking, costume contests and camaraderie while sharing the importance of blood donation to save lives. Did you know that every two seconds, someone in our community needs blood transfusions to survive? Learn more about how you can give the gift of life at www.hcbb.com. Advocacy Ensuring our members have a voice in the conversations shaping our local and state economies remains one of the Chamber's most important responsibilities. This month, we welcomed Senator Shannon Grove for our Report from the Capitol, giving members an opportunity to hear firsthand about the legislation, issues, and priorities impacting California and our business community. We are grateful to Senator Grove for sharing her perspective and engaging with our members. Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor, California Resources Corporation, and our supporting sponsors for their investment in Report from the Capitol. Read more on page 12. Leadership Developing leaders committed to serving our community is an investment in Bakersfield's future.
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Our Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2026 has officially completed its community projects! I am incredibly proud of this class and the dedication participants demonstrated in identifying community needs, building partnerships, and turning ideas into meaningful impact. We will highlight the community projects in November’s Metro, but until then if you or someone on your team is interested in applying for the next cohort for Leadership Bakersfield, please email: programs@bakochamber.com. Community At the end of the day, the reason we do what we do is simple: we care about this community and the people who make it special. October reminded us that meaningful progress happens through partnerships, shared experiences, and a willingness to invest in something bigger than ourselves. Our Ambassador Luncheon hosted by Kern Family Health Care in partnership with JJ’s Legacy, shined the light on organ and tissue donation. Do you have the Dot? Thank you to Salty’s BBQ for the delicious lunch and to all Ambassadors for how you continue to show up for each other. You are the definition of Community! As we enter November and prepare for the holiday season, I encourage you to stay engaged, take advantage of the connections available through your Chamber membership, and continue supporting the businesses and organizations that make Bakersfield thrive. Looking ahead, I hope you will join us for our Annual Chamber Holiday Mixer at Lino's Venue. It is one of our favorite opportunities to celebrate the year, reconnect with friends and colleagues, and enjoy the holiday season together! If interested in having your business take center stage at our Holiday Mixer, please email our team at: info@ bakochamber.com. Thank you for allowing the Greater Bakersfield Chamber to be part of your business journey. It is our privilege to serve you, advocate for you, and work alongside you to build a stronger Bakersfield. - Janelle Capra President & CEO, Greater Bakersfield Chamber
The Greater Bakersfield Chamber invites you to our
Holiday Mixer December 2 8 - 10 a.m. Lino’s Venue
Join us for some holiday cheer and leave with the magic of Chamber connections! Hosted by
Presented by
Silver Sponsor
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Rooted in Kern. Investing in Bakersfield’s Future. Kern Family Health Care reflects on winning "Large Business/ Corporation of the Year" and 30 years of service Receiving the Large Business/Corporation of the Year award at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards this year was a tremendous honor. As I thought about the people behind that recognition, our employees, providers, community partners and members, I felt proud and grateful. We are working together to build a healthier community, and this award is an encouraging reminder of what we can accomplish. The recognition comes as Kern Family Health Care celebrates 30 years of serving Kern County. This anniversary carries a special meaning for me, as it represents three decades of trust from families who count on us, and a responsibility to keep building a future where everyone continues to have access to the healthcare coverage they need. As Kern County’s local health plan, our work begins with coverage and extends into the neighborhoods we serve. Bakersfield is a city of many communities, each with its own strengths and needs. Understanding those differences helps us bring support to our members where they are. Through partnerships that bring mobile medical services to neighborhoods and schools, we help families connect with care closer to home. METRO | PAGE 6
We also know that good health depends on access to nutritious food, stable housing, transportation and other everyday necessities. Our strong, continuous partnerships with local organizations help address these needs, giving families a stronger foundation for healthy lives. Building that foundation also means investing in the people who provide care. Our network connects members with local physicians, clinics and hospitals, and we work to help those providers thrive here. We want health professionals to see Bakersfield as a place where they can build a rewarding career, raise a family and put down their roots. Our investments in local residency programs, expanded nursing programs and a local Doctor of Nursing Practice program are ways we are helping build that future. Supporting local education creates opportunities for health professionals to advance their training and help meet our region’s need for care. These investments matter to our economy, too. Kern Family Health Care provides local jobs and opportunities to build careers serving our community. From independent medical practices and small, local
businesses to major hospitals, the organizations we work with also employ our neighbors and contribute to Bakersfield’s vitality. When we strengthen access to care and support our local health care workforce, we help create the conditions for families, businesses, and our city to thrive. As I prepare to serve as chair of the board of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber’s Executive Committee, I look forward to strengthening these connections across our business community.
After 30 years, I am excited about all the possibilities ahead. I see talented people choosing to serve here, partners finding new ways to work together, and a community willing to invest in its future. Kern Family Health Care is proud to help carry that momentum forward, with Care Rooted in Kern and a genuine commitment to the people who call it home. Emily Duran Chief Executive Officer, Kern Family Health Care
In October, Greater Bakersfield Chamber Chair-Elect Emily Duran hosted the Chamber's Chairman Circle members at Kern Health Systems for a special business breakfast. Chairman’s Circle members connected and shared what is most important to them as they look toward 2027. The Chairman's Circle is the highest level of investment in the Chamber, helping fuel our mission to expand services for the entire business community. Chairman's Circle members receive premium recognition, exclusive benefits, and VIP services that set their businesses apart. To sign up or learn more, contact sadams@bakochamber.com. METRO | PAGE 7
Leadership Bakersfield experiences Government Day The Leadership Bakersfield cohort had a jampacked day of learning, engaging guest speakers, and valuable discussions during Government & Growth Day! The day focused on understanding the structure, functions, and processes of local government while providing opportunities to interact with elected officials and community leaders, explore effective advocacy, and hear firsthand perspectives on key issues impacting our region. Throughout the day, participants connected with city, county and state elected officials, government personnel, and local leaders to gain insight into the challenges, responsibilities, and decision-making processes that shape our communities. The cohort also heard from a local downtown business owner who shared firsthand insight into the challenges business owners are facing in today’s economic climate, offering a valuable perspective on the realities of operating a business and the issues affecting our local business community. Participants also had the unique opportunity to step into the “hot seat” and navigate a mock trial involving subject matter that local leaders are currently addressing in real time. This hands-on experience offered a closer look at the complexities of public service, decision-making, and navigating challenging issues in government. The group also visited a local business, public facilities and key sites throughout metropolitan Bakersfield that serve as the hub of local governance METRO | PAGE 8
to give a closer look at the institutions and operations that help keep our community moving forward. Government & Growth Day provided the cohort with a deeper understanding of how local government operates, how community members can effectively advocate for important issues, and how leadership decisions influence the future of Kern County. Michael Herrera Government Day Chair
Program Underwriter
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Best Day Ever February 25, 2027 Best Class Ever
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Join us for a 40th anniversary celebration! Team
Best Day Ever
Secure space for your team to be on the Leadership Wall
Team 1
For past & present students, council, & partners
Tickets & sponsorships available Team 2 Team 3 Team 4 Team 1
Scan the QR code or email programs@bakochamber.com for more information.
Team
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REPORT Leading Today. Protecting Tomorrow. FROM THE
CAPITOL Senator Shannon Grove speaks at the 2026 Report from the Capitol The Greater Bakersfield Chamber welcomed Senator Shannon Grove to the 2026 Report from the Capitol, presented by California Resources Corporation. This members-only event offers local business and community leaders an exclusive opportunity to hear directly from Sacramento on the federal issues shaping Kern County and the Central Valley. This year's program, themed "Leading Today, Protecting Tomorrow," gave our members the opportunity to hear directly from Senator Grove about the 2026 legislative session, the issues affecting our regional economy and employers, and what our community should be watching as we look toward 2027. In her presentation, Senator Grove touched on legislation impacting the community, including the following: Child safety Senator Grove and celebrity advocate Paris Hilton recently celebrated the signing of SB 1190, known as the Safe Passage for Youth Act. Senator Grove and Hilton have worked on this project for the past three years with the goal of protecting vulnerable youth. Sponsored by Hilton’s nonprofit, 11:11 Media Impact, SB 1190 brings more accountability to California’s youth transportation industry by requiring permits, background checks, and a ban on harmful practices. Additionally, when asked what the proudest moment of her career is, Senator Grove cites the passing of SB 14. This classifies human trafficking of a minor as a serious felony in California, making those who commit the crime punishable with harsher prison sentences. Drilling permits Under SB 237, Kern County can approve up to 2,000 new well drilling permits per year for the next 10 years. This strengthens Kern County’s position as the Energy Capital of California and addresses the decline in domestic oil production.
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Veteran support SB 892 clarifies an existing bill that requires public universities to give priority registration to veterans. Previously, veterans had to register within 15 years of leaving active duty, but SB 892 removes that limitation and allows for ongoing access to priority registration.
“The Greater Bakersfield Chamber is grateful for Senator Grove’s legacy of leadership and steadfast advocacy on behalf of veterans, farmers, families, and the business community, as well as her commitment to addressing human trafficking and advancing school safety," said Greater Bakersfield Chamber President and CEO Janelle Capra. Report from the Capitol was made possible by the generous support of Presenting Sponsor California Resources Corporation, Co-sponsor Chevron, and other contributing sponsors: Hey Salty, Hydrostor, Bakersfield Association of Realtors, and Valley Strong Credit Union. Thank you to our members who attended this luncheon. To learn more about the Chamber's advocacy and programs, visit bakochamber.com.
VIEW GALLERY Photos: Lettratto
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BAKERSFIELD YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
COMMS CONFESSIONS A Program of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber
AFTER DARK
What do you do when a story takes an unexpected turn? Bakersfield Young Professionals partnered with PRSA Central California for "Comms Confessions After Dark," a panel and mixer in the spirit of Halloween. Communications professionals shared challenging moments they’ve navigated, the decisions they made under pressure, and the lessons they learned along the way. Guests heard from the following speakers: •
Claudio Carbajal – Healthtech & Hospitality Operator, LUNA Bistro & Cafe
•
Kelly Fargo - Vice President of Community Relations, Strata Credit Union
•
Tom Webster - Manager of Communications and Community Engagement, Clinica Sierra Vista
Jacqueline Aguilar, PRSA Central California President, led an insightful discussion as each panelist gave advice on navigating public perception, fake news, and maintaining audience trust with the rise of artificial intelligence. Afterward, guests mingled while enjoying delicious drinks and fresh pizza from Fredo's. Special thank you to Fredo's for hosting us, and to Dignity Health Mercy and Memorial Hospitals for sponsoring the event. Learn more about BYP at bakochamber.com/byp. METRO | PAGE 14
Unbound:
Kern Capital Summit 2026 Where deals begin. Where futures are shaped.
The Sound of Something Better!
NOVEMBER 8-10, 2026 Dignity Health Convention Center | Bakersfield, California
A THREE-DAY INVESTMENT SUMMIT Join investors, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers for meaningful connections and first-hand exposure to Bakersfield & Kern County's highest-growth sectors.
500+
3 DAYS
5
DECISION-MAKERS
CONNECT. ENGAGE. ADVANCE.
GROWTH ENGINES
ADVANCED ENERGY
AEROSPACE + DEFENSE
AGTECH
INFRASTRUCTURE
AI-DRIVEN HEALTHCARE
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
Put Your Brand Center Stage. $5,000-$50,000 | Summit passes | VIP site tours Brand visibility | Select speaking and exhibit opportunities
LEARN MORE: B3KPROSPERITY.ORG/UNBOUND
PRESENTED BY
B3K Prosperity and the City of Bakersfield CONTACT US
jcater@bakesfieldcity.us adrianne@b3kprosperity.org
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Bakersfield Chamber PAC endorses candidates for upcoming election The Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee, also known as BAKPAC, announced endorsed candidates in the following Bakersfield City Council races in the 2026 General Election: •
Ward 1: Eric Arias
•
Ward 3: Cassie Bittle
•
Ward 4: Ryan Crowl
•
Ward 7: Manpreet Kaur
“Residents and job creators in Bakersfield face ongoing affordability pressures, as the costs of living and doing business continue to surge,” said BAKPAC Chair Chad Hathaway. “After meeting with candidates and considering the issues and challenges facing our community, BAKPAC is proud to support these individuals for City Council. We need elected representatives who understand the real-world impacts of local policy decisions, share our dedication to fiscal responsibility, and are committed to working with the business community on policies that make Bakersfield a better place to live and work.” Candidates interested in obtaining endorsement apply and submit a candidate questionnaire to BAKPAC. After a review of candidate submissions, select individuals are invited to interviews with the BAKPAC Board of Directors, which has decisionmaking authority for endorsements. BAKPAC is affiliated with but governed separately from the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. BAKPAC does not endorse in federal races.
“Our City Council plays a critical role in the local business climate, enacting policies that affect affordability, quality of life, and companies’ ability to succeed and grow,” said Janelle Capra, President and CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. “The candidates we’ve endorsed demonstrated an understanding of the top concerns of Chamber members and residents, and we urge voters to join with BAKPAC and vote for them.” The 2026 Bakersfield City Council candidate endorsements come in addition to BAKPAC’s previously announced 2026 endorsements for Nathan Magsig in the California State Senate District 12 race, Guillermo Gonzalez in the California State Senate District 16 race, David Couch in the Assembly 32nd District race, Andrae Gonzalez in the Assembly 35th District race, Chris Parlier for Kern County Board of Supervisors District 2, and Jeff Flores for Kern County Board of Supervisors District 3.
Learn more at bak-pac.com/endorsements
Ad paid for by Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee. This advertisement was not authorized by a candidate or a committee controlled by a candidate. METRO | PAGE 16
Welcome New Chamber Members Bakersfield Recycling Services INC 2710 O St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 437-1211 www.bfr24.com “Bakersfield Recycling Services is a faith-based, family-owned Kern County recycler offering CRV buy-back, mattress, electronics, battery, cardboard, and commercial recycling, protecting our environment and community.” BAY ALARM COMPANY 9716 W Grove Ave. Visalia, CA 93291 (559) 622-6161 bayalarm.com “Top security service company in the San Joaquin Valley Local service from security experts serving commercial corridors and industrial/agriculture zones in Central California.” Central Valley Health Network (CVHN) 500 Capitol Mall Ste. 2350 Sacramento, CA 95814 (559) 907-0309 cvhnclinics.org “Incorporated in 1998, Central Valley Health Network (CVHN) is a nonprofit regional association comprised of 19 community health centers with 280+ clinics in 21 counties.” Fuller Apartment Homes PO Box 30157 Santa Barbara, CA 93130 (661) 584-4868 fah.com “We are a company that builds and manages Apartment Communities”
Kern Research, Inc. 1921 18th Street Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 864-7710 kernresearch.com “Kern Research performs clinical research trials.” Kindred Montessori 5925 Young St. Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 472-1309 kindredbakersfield.com “Kindred Montessori is a new private Montessori school coming to Bakersfield in Fall 2027, serving children from toddler age through sixth grade.” Phase One Clinical Trials, Inc. 1831 Truxtun Ave. 150 Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 396-5340 phaseonect.com “A clinical research site in Bakersfield, CA conducting clinical trials for the greater community. Our site conducts clinical trials Phases I - IV.” Quantum Industries 732 Angus Lane Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 535-8280 quantumdvbe.com “Preform in all aspect of industrial electrical construction and maintenance including high voltage.”
Hope in the Valley 4949 Buckley Way Suite 106 Bakersfield, CA 93309 (661) 589-8181 hopeinthevalley.ca “HOPE in the Valley connects individuals, families, and organizations to life-saving education, training, and resources related to substance use, mental health, and recovery. 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. METRO | PAGE 17
Renewing Members AltaOne Federal Credit Union Riverwalk Office - 2012 ARRC Technology - 1996 Bakersfield College - 1974 Bakersfield Hyundai - 2013 Barton Marketing Group - 2019 Brookdale Riverwalk - 1999 Bristol Hospice Bakersfield - 1998 Built Right Property Inspection and Contracting Service - 2022 Bureau of Land Management - 1993 Central Pacific Valuation - 2024 Central Valley Commercial Brokers, Inc. - 2021 Cisneros Brothers Plumbing - 2025 Citizens Business Bank - 17th Street Branch - 1983 CITY RISE SAFETY - 2025 Civic Dance Center - 2025 Coldwell Banker Preffered - 2023 Collieres International - 2011 Community Services Employment Training (CSET) - 2021 Continental Business Solutions 2025 Culligan Water - 2017 Doughty-Calhoun-O'Meara Funderal Directors - 1929 Educational Employees Credit Union - 2022 Emser Tile - 2015 Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bakersfield - 1989 Fifth Third Bank - 2024 Gold Standard Mortgage - 2023 Good Samaritan Hospital - 2011 Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance - 2025 Hey Salty, Inc. - 2020 Houchin Community Blood Bank Oswell St. - 2022 Houchin Community Blood Bank Truxtun Ave. - 2022 J.Noble Binns Plumbing Co., Inc. 2021 J. Webb Consulting dba I-N-C, Inc. 2021 METRO | PAGE 18
Kern County Fair and Event Center - 1958 Kern County Family Magazine - 1996 Kern Dance Alliance - 2017 Klein, DeNatale, Goldner et al - 1987 Kern Psychiatric Health and Wellness, Inc. 2011 The KYA Group - 2025 La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bakersfield South - 1986 Law Office of Jorge Alesna, Jr. - 2024 The League of Dreams - 2012 Legacy Staffing Solutions, Inc. - 2022 Maaco Autobody & Pain - 2025 McCormick Biological, Inc. - 2016 McDonald's - 2018 Mendiburu Magic Foundation - 2019 MindDivers - 2025 Omni Family Health - 1986 Ordiz-Melby Architects, A Professional Corporation - 1996 Pacific Western Bank - 2017 Pet Wants Bakersfield West - 2025 POWER HUB BAKERSFIELD - 2025 Reyese Coca-Cola Bottling - 2019 S.A. Camp Companies, Investments - 2003 Sage Equities - Q St. - 2023 Silverback Termite & Pest Control, Inc. - 2025 Sparkle Uniform & Linen Service - 2021 Special Olympics Kern County - 2025 Teen Challenge Southern Cal. - Kern County 2019 Valley Achievement Center - 2003 Valley Center for the Blind - 2024 Women's Business Center - 2019
Member News B3K Prosperity’s Unbound returns for its second annual gathering of invited investors, industry leaders, and policymakers on November 8-10 at the Dignity Health Convention Center. Join decision-makers from across the U.S. and around the world to explore high-growth opportunities in Kern County. View the full speaker lineup and get tickets at b3kprosperity.org. Fuller Apartment Homes invites Chamber members and the Bakersfield community to celebrate the opening of Park Center at Seven Oaks with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 12 p.m. The event will be held on site at 3510 Village Center Parkway. Park Center is Seven Oaks’ newest apartment community, planned for 520 homes in total. The first phase, Park Center South, brings 352 apartments to one of southwest Bakersfield’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Leasing is now underway for Park Center South. The ribbon cutting is a milestone for the project and helps meet Bakersfield’s growing need for new, welldesigned rental housing. Guests can see the community firsthand, meet the Park Center team, and celebrate with neighbors, local business leaders and the partners who helped bring the project to life. Chamber members and guests are asked to RSVP to parkcenter@fah.com. For more information, call (661) 5844838 or visit parkcentersevenoaks.com. The Cherokee Community of Central California is hosting award-winning professor and bestselling author Cynthia Ruiz. Ruiz will present an inspiring program centered on her book, Sacred Ceremony & Rituals for Today’s World. A citizen of the Cherokee Nation, Ruiz carries the Cherokee name Lion Mother. Her work honors Indigenous wisdom while inviting contemporary audiences to explore meaningful practices that strengthen reflection, connection, gratitude, and community. Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 11:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Beale Memorial Library 701 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, California Bakersfield Recycling Services, Inc., a family-owned recycling center at 2710 O Street, is proud to join the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce and expand its services to the community. Local businesses can request free 40-yard recycling containers and scheduled pickups. Our team can also help businesses meet California’s commercial recycling requirements (AB 341). We are open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. CRV buy-back hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. We serve Bakersfield and communities within 50 miles. Hablamos español. Contact: Rosie Mercado-Flores, (661) 437-1211, rosie@bakersfieldrecyclinginc.com, www.bfr24.com
CLICK HERE FOR MORE MEMBER NEWS
METRO | PAGE 19
Catch the latest episode of The Chamber Perk with Wendy Porter from Wounded Heroes Fund! Watch now on kget.com/chamber-perk. Chamber Perk airs once a month at 1 p.m. on KGET TV-17's Studio 17 Live. The next episode is on Thursday, Nov. 5!
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RIBBON CUTTINGS
Upcoming Events Tuesday, Nov. 3 Government Review Council • Noon | Greater Bakersfield Chamber Wednesday, Nov. 11 Chamber Closed - Veteran's Day • All day Thursday, Nov. 26 - Friday, Nov. 27 Chamber closed - Thanksgiving • All day
Grand Opening Gothic Landscape, Inc.
Leadership Graduation Project LB Team 2: Casa Esperanza
Leadership Graduation Project LB Team 4: Bakersfield Women's Center
Leadership Graduation Project LB Team 1: CASA Clubhouse
Leadership Bakersfield Project Mural Unveiling LB Team 3: Houchin Community Blood Bank
Grand Opening Community Property Management & Investments Inc.
4300 Armour Ave. gothiclandscape.com
5075 Gosford Rd. magdalenehope.org
11515 Bolthouse Dr. hcbb.com
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1421 Panorama Dr. esperanzabakersfield.org
1717 Columbus St. kerncasa.org
1100 Mohawk St. Suite 150 cpmiinc.com
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CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS
Chair Elect of the Board Emily Duran, Kern Health Systems
Ordiz-Melby Architects (OMA) is an award-winning architectural firm serving the Southern San Joaquin Valley of California. OMA helps clients meet the needs of their facility while helping optimize the long term value of their investments. Because of OMA’s creativity, experience, and resources, they are trusted by some of Kern County’s most recognizable organizations to handle important, high profile and complex projects.
Immediate Past Chair Deanna Blaise, Valley Strong Credit Union
Learn more at ordizmelby.com.
2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair of the Board Dr. Vernon B. Harper, Jr., California State University, Bakersfield
Treasurer Lisa Carbajal, Cen Cal Business Finance Group Vice Chair, Public Policy & Political Action Willie Rivera, Campo Bar and Bottle Vice Chair, Economic Vitality Octavio Escobedo III, Tejon Indian Tribe
MAJOR INVESTORS
Vice Chair, Leadership & Workforce Development Molly Busaca, Secure Systems General Council Mark Bateman, Young Wooldridge LLP Lindsay Barnes, KGET TV-17 Angela Barton, Barton Marketing Group Patrick Beck, Bakersfield Hyundai Nik Boone, Ascend Real Estate Jason Cater, City of Bakersfield Maggie Cushine, Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County Melissa Frank, The Wonderful Company Kamal Gill, Brimhall Pharmacy & Panama Pharmacy Cherif Guirguis, LINQride DeAnna Lewis, Wingstop Maybelle Liquigan, Kaiser Permanente Jessica Pounds, Moo Creamery Austin Smith, Sage Equities Erin Tenter, Bolthouse Properties Sherod Waite, Moneywise Wealth Management Karen Zuber, Bank of America
CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS
CHAMBER STAFF Janelle Capra President & CEO Savanah Adams Director of Community & Member Engagement Lorrie Guinn-Magers Director of Operations & HR Raegina Sanchez Communications Manager
Get Social
Stay engaged and connected with what's happening at the Chamber by following us on these social media platforms.
@bakochamber METRO | PAGE 22
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