A publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber | September 2026
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METRO | PAGE 2
ON THE
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INSIDE CEO MESSAGE
Read a message from your President/CEO, Janelle Capra
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BEAUTIFUL BAKERSFIELD AWARDS
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LEADERSHIP BAKERSFIELD
Reflections from winner Bryan Burrow and sponsor Hall Ambulance
Inside Leadership Bakersfield's Agriculture Day
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COMMUNITY 12 HOUCHIN BLOOD BANK
HCBB celebrates 75 years of lifesaving work
16 BYP COUNCIL
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Meet the Bakersfield Young Professionals Council
ENDORSED 18 BAKPAC CANDIDATES
Learn who BAKPAC is endorsing for the upcoming election
20 NEW MEMBERS
Welcome our new Chamber members
21 MEMBER NEWS
Check out what's going on in our community
COVER PHOTO Houchin Community Blood Bank's 75th anniversary gala, "Gala to Give."
8 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 September's Changing Seasons
“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.” - Abraham Maslow As the seasons shift from the hot summer months to the “cooler” temperatures of autumn, the Chamber team is embracing this season of change and opportunity. Recently, I asked our staff a simple question: What is one word that defines the Chamber for you? The responses were purpose, visibility, and value, and I added one of my own: legacy. I believe these four words capture the work the Greater Bakersfield Chamber strives to deliver every day to you—our members—and to our community. Purpose: BAKPAC has worked with purpose this year to support our business community. Throughout the month, the diverse members of BAKPAC interviewed candidates and hosted a special event featuring endorsed candidates, providing opportunities for meaningful conversations with Chamber members. This year’s message, “Protect What You’ve Built,” has been the guiding force for BAKPAC. You can be proud that your contributions to our PAC help support this mission. Learn more about the Chamber’s PAC and how you can get involved on page 18. Visibility: Being visible and having a voice in important conversations that affect our business community is an essential part of the Chamber’s role. I recently attended the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Listening Session focused on carbon capture, removal, utilization, and storage. It is important that the business community has a seat at the table and that our local perspective is represented in these conversations. Our Chamber was also proud to support the annual John Brock Awards dinner, honoring William (Bill) K. Lazzerini, Jr., for his exemplary leadership in business and his commitment to supporting charitable causes throughout our community. GBC Board Chair, Dr. Vernon Harper, Jr., presented scholarships to six CSUB students through the John Brock Endowment. It was a wonderful evening celebrating leadership, service, and the next generation of community leaders. Click here to view photos from the event. Value: Creating value for our members and community remains at the heart of what we do. This month, the Chamber celebrated three ribbon cuttings: Dirt Dog X, Bobbi’s Hallmark Shop, and Goodwill. Each event provided an opportunity to celebrate local businesses, welcome new ventures, and connect members with one another.
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We also hosted our Embrace for Good Mixer with Jim Burke Ford Lincoln, benefiting SALT (local charity for suicide awareness). The event brought members together around an important cause, raising more than $2900 while highlighting the generosity and community spirit that make Bakersfield special. Our monthly Ambassadors Luncheon was another packed house, featuring local leaders and conversations focused on small business and the people who help our business community thrive. We ended the month by hosting our fourth Labor Law and HR Forum of the year with Attorneys Jerry Pearson and Emma Doty from Klein DeNatale Goldner. He shared tips on navigating discipline, termination, and retaliation. Thank you Klen DeNatale Goldner for always keeping our members informed. Legacy: Legacy is about more than looking back, it is about building something that will continue to make a difference for those who come after us. I want to give a special thank you to Savanah Adams for inviting me to speak at the Bakersfield College Alumni Lunch & Learn. It was a joy to return to my roots as a BC student and share lessons in life and leadership with today’s students. A bonus was sharing the speaker panel with longtime friends and colleagues, Matt Munoz and Bob Meadows. That spirit of legacy continues with our Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2026, as participants complete their community projects. In fact, one of those projects is featured on this month’s cover in partnership with Houchin Community Blood Bank, which you can read about on page 12. It has been an amazing year, and we are already looking forward to celebrating with you next year at the 40-Year Reunion! There are many ways to become part of this legacy, including joining our inaugural Legacy of Leaders Founding Members. As September ends, I hope this season gives you an opportunity to embrace change, look ahead, and consider what you are building for the future. The Chamber is honored to continue serving you. - Janelle Capra President & CEO, Greater Bakersfield Chamber
A Greater Bakersfield Chamber program
OCT. 14, 2026 Tickets on sale now
REPORT FROM THE
CAPITOL Leading Today. Protecting Tomorrow. Presented by
Contact sadams@bakochamber.com to inquire about sponsorship opportunities. METRO | PAGE 5
Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement Award Winner reflects on the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards There are moments in life that catch you completely by surprise—moments when you look around and realize just how fortunate you are to be part of a special community, surrounded by so many people who have helped shape your journey. Receiving the Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement Award was one of those moments for me. The experience was electric and completely unexpected. When my name was called, I was in a state of shock, yet filled with a rush of adrenaline. My two tables erupted as I stood to walk toward the stage. As I walked to the stage, it was surreal but awesome! Even better was walking with my sons Bryce and Braeden as we passed so many people I've served with, worked with, and proud to call my friends. As a father, it's difficult to put into words what that meant to me. Awards are wonderful, but sharing that moment with my sons and my wife is something I will carry with me forever. There were so many outstanding nominees… I was simply honored to be included among them. As a man of faith, a family man, a community servant, and a friend, I believe this award says more about the people around me than it does about me. We have a community that works hard and gives generously of itself. Mayor Hall was a mentor of mine. To me, METRO | PAGE 6
he represented the very best of Bakersfield. He understood that leadership wasn't about holding a title—it was about serving people and making each day better than the one before. He loved this community, believed in its potential, and demonstrated through his life what it meant to give back. He inspired so many of us, and receiving an award that bears his name carries both a special honor and a continued responsibility to keep that spirit of service alive. Community involvement has been an important part of my life for three decades. I've served on numerous boards, including three current roles: Trustee for the Fruitvale School District, Commissioner for the Bakersfield Police Commission, and Board Member for Urners, among other boards. I've also had the privilege of working with nonprofit organizations like STEPS, Inc. and the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra both of whom are important nonprofits for our community. Each experience has given me a deeper appreciation for the people, organizations, and institutions that make Bakersfield special. That same commitment carries into my professional life. As a business consultant, I have the opportunity to work alongside business owners and executives as they strengthen their organizations, improve financial performance, develop their people, and build healthy businesses positioned for sustainable growth. To me, that work is community
service too. Healthy businesses create jobs, support families, invest in local organizations, and strengthen the economic foundation of our city. Whether I'm serving on a board, volunteering in the community, mentoring a leader, or helping a local company grow stronger, the objective is ultimately the same: build a stronger Bakersfield. Receiving the Harvey Hall Lifetime Achievement Award is humbling, because I don't view community involvement as something that's finished. There is still
important work ahead. Mayor Harvey Hall showed us what can happen when people genuinely love their community and are willing to invest themselves in it. I am deeply grateful for this recognition—but even more grateful for the opportunity to continue that work. Bryan Burrow President & CEO, Intrepid
“As the founder of Hall Ambulance and Bakersfield’s 25th and longestserving mayor, Harvey L. Hall held a deep love for this city, and he adored its people. Mr. Hall especially enjoyed presenting at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards and honoring those who make our community thrive. For Hall Ambulance, sponsoring the Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement Award is a natural fit—we are honored to celebrate the nominees who carry forward his legacy of dedicated service.” Mark Corum Vice President of Marketing & Brand Strategy, Hall Ambulance
Harvey L. Hall and Bryan Burrow
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Leadership Bakersfield engages in Agriculture Day As part of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber’s Leadership Bakersfield Agriculture Day on September 11, participants spent the day experiencing Kern County agriculture firsthand and learning about the key issues facing the industry. First, the class visited Golden Empire Shelling where the class got a first hand look into what happens to almonds when they leave the field after harvest. The class learned about the uses of the hull and shell after they are removed from the almond as well as talking about the growing cycle of the almond. The class was able to walk through the huller, where the vibration tables and conveyor belts remove the almond from the hull and shell. After visiting Golden Empire Shelling, the class traveled to Lost Hills to visit Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds, where participants got a firsthand look at pistachio production from orchard to processing. The class first toured a pistachio orchard during harvest and watched mechanical shakers remove the pistachios from the trees. Participants also learned about issues currently affecting pistachio growers, including the significant crop losses caused by this year’s extreme heat event. Following the orchard tour, the class toured the Wonderful Pistachios processing facility to see how pistachios are received and processed after harvest. The visit concluded with a Lunch & Learn featuring Alex Dominguez of Kahn, Soares & Conway, who discussed California water issues and the challenges facing agriculture. METRO | PAGE 8
Lastly, the class was able to learn about cotton. We started at Cauzza Farms where the class learned the history and legacy of growing cotton in Kern County. After visiting a cotton field and learning about the upcoming harvest, the class made their way to a cotton gin. Participants heard about the decreasing number of gins remaining from the production shifting to other locations throughout the world. The class toured the cotton gin to further understand the complexities of separating commodities and the various uses for multiple products in one crop. Overall, Agriculture Day gave participants a firsthand look at the diversity and complexity of Kern County agriculture. From almonds to pistachios to cotton, the class saw each step of production while learning about the economic, environmental, and regulatory challenges facing local farmers and agricultural businesses. The day highlighted the important role agriculture continues to play in Kern County and the innovation and resources required to keep the industry strong.
Program Underwriter
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IN THE BUSINESS OF SAVING LIVES
Houchin Community Blood Bank celebrates 75 years of life-saving work
Kern County hospitals previously relied on San Francisco and Los Angeles to provide blood for patients in need, accepting the risk that the blood might not be transported on time. When a situation is critical, even just one day of traveling is too long. Local medical professionals began advocating for a nonprofit, community-based blood bank, and in 1951, Houchin Community Blood Bank (HCBB) was established. Seventy-five years later, Houchin is celebrating this milestone anniversary and the three million lives impacted by their work. "Our core business is to help save lives," said Jonathan Bautista, CEO of HCBB. "I always like to think of us as the stewards of blood supply, where we connect to the community and to the patients that receive the products."
A Collaborative Effort But Houchin cannot do this alone. Their mission to save lives is dependent on the community’s generosity. “We want donors to know that they’re helping save a patient’s life not just in Kern County, but outside of it METRO | PAGE 12
as well,” said Jonathan. Not only does Houchin work with hospitals in the area, but they are also a part of a nation-wide network called Blood Emergency Readiness Core (BERC). Through BERC, Houchin has been able to send supplies all over the country, including New Orleans and Texas. “You never know whose life you saved. You could be passing by someone on the street whose life changed thanks to your donation,” added Jonathan. With over 30 years of experience in blood banking, Jonathan has witnessed countless stories of lives changed through the generosity of blood donors. At Houchin’s recent 75th anniversary gala, one family shared the story of their daughter, Charlie, who required blood transfusions to treat a rare disorder. “Due to the blood she received and the kindness of the community, Charlie has grown into a thriving 12-year-old,” said Jonathan. While many are familiar with blood donations, Houchin stresses the importance of platelet donations
as well. Platelets are vital for trauma and cancer patients, but they have a short shelf life of seven days. Platelet donations are crucial, so Houchin can provide a steady supply to hospitals. Every whole blood or platelet donation can save up to three lives.
Caring for Every Donor Understanding that donating is no small task, Houchin takes steps to make donors feel comfortable and cared for throughout the process. Before the procedure, donors take a health screening to assess their levels and determine whether they are eligible to donate. After the procedure, they are monitored for 15 minutes and provided with snacks to help ensure they feel well enough to leave. “Our staff is very well trained in phlebotomy. They do a fantastic job of taking care of the donors, making sure they feel comfortable and alleviating fears about the process,” explained Jonathan. However, those who cannot donate blood or platelets can help in other ways. Whether it’s through volunteer work or monetary contributions, every act of support makes a difference.
QUICK FACTS Houchin Community Blood Bank is the only nonprofit blood bank in Bakersfield. Every two seconds, someone in the community urgently needs blood transfusions. Each blood or platelet donation can save up to three lives. There is more than one way to give: donate blood & platelets, host a blood drive, volunteer, or commit to a monthly or yearly monetary contributon.
To commemorate the lasting impact of donations, the Chamber’s Leadership Bakersfield Team 3 is partnering with Houchin on a project called Legacy of Giving. Team 3 METRO | PAGE 13
will honor donors who commit to giving $75 per month for one year. In recognition of their continued support, each donor will receive a plaque with their name, which will be displayed on a special mural at Houchin’s Bolthouse location.
Growing with the Community Reflecting on 75 years and looking toward the future, HCBB is exploring new avenues to expand its impact beyond blood and platelet collection. One way is a model called prehospital blood transfusion, which would allow emergency medical services to carry blood on ambulances or helicopters and begin transfusions while patients are being transported to the hospital. The goal is to provide critical support during the minutes between an emergency and a patient’s arrival at the hospital, increasing the patient’s chance of survival. “Houchin is currently working with Kern County EMS and local medical partners to develop the program, and we hope to launch it next year,” said Jonathan.
the community steps up right away and shows up to support the patients here,” he said. HCBB is the only local blood bank in Bakersfield, and every donation helps with their life-saving work. To learn more and find out how to donate or volunteer, visit hcbb.com.
HOW TO GIVE BLOOD Registration: Check-in and fill out the donor questionnaire Screening: A trained professional will conduct a mini physical and health screening
Houchin is also looking into making cellular therapy more accessible. Currently, the procedure to collect and transfuse stem cells happens outside of Kern County, and Jonathan hopes to make these services local.
Donation: The actual donation process takes about 8-10 minutes
“Supporting that medical innovation is important to me. I want patients to be able to stay home for that procedure and not have to drive somewhere else to have it done,” he said. “Kern County continues to grow, and I want us as an organization to grow with the community and its patients.”
Recovery: After your donation, you will be provided snacks and refreshments while you relax for 15 minutes
Jonathan knows that none of this is possible without the support of the community, whose efforts have shown up time and time again. “When we put a call-to-action out into the community, METRO | PAGE 14
Learn more at hcbb.com.
n ’ a s C m r i i r a c h l e C BUSINESS BREAKFAST
Thursday, Oct. 8 Kern Health Systems
Scan to RSVP
8 a.m. - Check in 8:10 a.m. - Welcome from Emily Duran 8:15-9:15 a.m. - Breakfast discussion
Thank you to our Chairman’s Circle Members! Your commitment fuels the programs, advocacy, and events that keep our business community thriving. Please join us for this exclusive Business Breakfast hosted by Emily Duran, CEO, Kern Health Systems and GBC Chair Elect. This is your opportunity to network with other Chairman’s Circle members and share what is most important to your business in 2027. Please note this event is exclusive to Chairman’s Circle members. METRO | PAGE 15
Meet the
BAKERSFIELD YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Council BAKERSFIELD YOUNG PROFESSIONALS A Program of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber
The Bakersfield Young Professionals (BYP) program is committed to cultivating the next generation of business, civic, and community leaders in Bakersfield. The council, led by the Chamber's Director of Community and Member Engagement, Savanah Adams (pictured right), works hard to elevate and support Bakersfield’s Young Professionals as they emerge as influential leaders. The BYP program aims to ensure that Bakersfield’s Young Professionals remain connected, inspired, and positioned to lead the city’s continued growth and development. Learn more at bakochamber.com/byp.
Kendall Trotter Vice Chair / Chair-elect
Kendall Trotter is a Bakersfield native and graduate of CSU Bakersfield, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics. She is currently pursuing her MBA while serving as a Treasury Management Relationship Manager at Valley Strong Credit Union. Passionate about supporting local small businesses, Kendall works closely with business owners to provide solutions that help them grow and succeed. Outside of her professional career, she enjoys balancing life as a graduate student and a dog mom of 3. Why BYP? I joined BYP to connect with other motivated young professionals and to help create a space for Kern County's next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and community advocates. METRO | PAGE 16
John Frick Council Member
John Frick is an attorney at the law firm of Klein DeNatale Goldner. The son of two immigrants, John was raised in an unusual blend of cultures, growing up on a Texas cattle ranch and learning English as his second language. Before becoming an attorney, John helped communities around the world, doing international development work, serving as an advisor to a United Nations delegation, and developing a program to help farmers in the Southwestern US. John looks to use his unique background and experiences to find creative solutions for clients and the community. Why BYP? I want to help create a space for young professionals to connect and create opportunities.
Kayla Hickey Council Member
Kayla Morgan Hickey is a Bakersfield native and graduate of UC Davis with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and a Masters of Science in Environmental Policy. She is currently a Grants Analyst for the Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK). Her background includes experience in both State and local government, with a focus on environmental management and policy. Why BYP: I joined BYP to reconnect with the Bakersfield community after living in Northern California, with the goal of building my local professional network!
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Bakersfield Chamber PAC announces endorsements for Bakersfield City Council races The Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee, also known as BAKPAC, today announced endorsed candidates in the following Bakersfield City Council races in the 2026 General Election: •
Ward 1: Eric Arias
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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 18
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METRO | PAGE 19
Welcome New Chamber Members
Renewing 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.
Advanced Data Storage - 2009 Amazon Fulfillment Center - 2021 An Idea Girl Advertising Agency 2024 AT&T California - 1946
Bratcher Home & Design 1219 18th St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 549-0024 “Bratcher Home & Design is a curated home and gift boutique offering unique furnishings, thoughtful gifts, and personalized interior design for elevated, livable spaces.” Goodwill Industries of South Central California 2646 Allen Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93314 (661) 679-4781 thegoodwill.org “Goodwill Industries of Southern California proudly serves our community with over 10 convenient store locations. Each store offers a unique selection of quality items, supporting.” Kern Land Company LLC 369 S Doheny Dr. #326 Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (661) 400-5983 “Manage commercial and residential properties.” Tejon Ranch Conservancy 1601 New Stine Rd. Ste. 195 Bakersfield, CA 93309-3699 (661) 248-2400 tejonconservancy.org “Tejon Ranch Conservancy protects and stewards Tejon Ranch’s natural and cultural resources through conservation, restoration, education, research, and community engagement.” Tutoring Club 4300 Coffee Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 589-8181 tutoringclub.com “Tutoring Club provides personalized K-12 academic tutoring, test prep, and study skills programs tailored to build student confidence and boost classroom performance.”
Bakersfield Cash Register - 1976 Bako Balloons & Backdrops - 2024 Bolthouse Properties, LLC. - 2006 Carney's Business Technology Group - 1984 Cater Design Group, INC. - 2025 Central Valley AC Inc. - 2025 Coffee Road Ventures, LLC c/o DJM Capital Partners, Inc - 2024 Darling & Wilson, PC - 1948 Dewar's Candy Shop, Inc. - MAIN 1994 E.R.F. Incorporated DBA Central Valley Medical Supplies - 2022 ECOsource Printers, INC - 2024 eMedia - 2011 Emporium Western Store - 1987 Euro Pro, Inc. - Calloway & Brimhall - 1996 EuroPhoria Medical, Inc. - 2022 Frugatti's Italian Restaurant - 2004 Golden Empire Youth Tackle Football - 2010 Goodwill Industries of South Central California - 1991 Grimmway Enterprises Inc. dba Grimmway Farms - 2008 Holiday Inn Express - 2017 House of Flowers - 2017 Hydrostor - 2022 ICON Printing Solutions - 2016 Insurica - 1946 John F. Stovall - 2005 JSS Almonds - 2015 Kern County Association, LP dba: Golden West Casino - 2023 Kern County Taxpayers Association - 1991 KERO-TV 23 - 1946 Killian Pest Control Inc. - 2022 March Consulting - 2013
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Member News Mary Kay Cosmetics - Valerie Otterness - 2024 McDonald's - Panama Ln. - 2018 Minuteman Press - 1991 Mossman's Catering - 2016 MP Environmental Services, Inc. - 1993 Nanette Yabiku Coaching LLC - 2024 Outlets at Tejon - 2014 Pacific Advisors - 2004 Padre Hotel, LP - 2009 Pinnacle Recruitment Services - 2017 Pismo Beach Hotel Partners, LLC - 2011 Prochorus, LLC - 2019 Rio Tinto Borates U.S. Borax - 2008 SA Recycling, LLC - 1997 Sagaser Watkins & Wieland - 2019 San Joaquin Operators - 2024 Silverback Termite & Pest Control, Inc. - 2025 Valley Center for the Blind - 2024
Join Tejon Ranch Conservancy for a ribbon cutting and office warming on Oct 2 from 3pm-6pm as we open a new home base for preserving, enhancing, and restoring the biodiversity and ecosystem values of Tejon Ranch and the Tehachapi Range. Tour the space where our team plans conservation research, fieldwork, and public programs like nature journaling and stewardship projects. Your presence celebrates 240,000 acres of conserved lands—and the work ahead for California’s future generations. RSVP Here:Ribbon Cutting and Office Warming Party. Family HealthCare Network is excited to invite the community to several upcoming events featuring health resources, family activities, food, music, and opportunities to connect with local organizations. Fresno Harvest Health Fair •
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Delano Harvest Festival •
Friday, October 9, 2026
Delano Adult School •
Thursday, October 15, 2026
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. RSVP here. Maaco Autobody & Painting BTS in Bakersfield - Beat The Sun, All-In-One — $1,299. Enamel + UV paint, universal sealer, light chip and scratch repair, and a diagnostic scan. Get dents and body fixed and get a complimentary paint upgrade. And, our own Greater Bakersfield Chamber members take an extra 10% off paint--mention GBC. Get Rewarded for looking out for your loved ones. We launched the Friends & Family (F&F) Bonus Bucks Program: refer someone and you earn $25 for every $1,000 of their job — and they save the same amount off their bill. And both get automatically entered into a $500 drawing. Get a FREE estimate: Click to book a time best for you → or call (661) 529-2294
CLICK HERE FOR MORE MEMBER NEWS Send news to info@bakochamber.com. METRO | PAGE 21
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RIBBON CUTTINGS
Upcoming Events Tuesday, Oct. 6 Government Review Council • Noon | Greater Bakersfield Chamber Thursday, Oct. 8 Chairman's Circle Business Breakfast • 8 a.m. | Kern Health Systems Wednesday, Oct. 14 Report from the Capitol • 11 a.m. | DoubleTree by Hilton
Grand Opening Dirt Dog X
5075 Gosford Rd. dirtdogla.com
Anniversary Celebration Bobbi's Hallmark Shop 8200 Stockdale Ste. F-3 hallmark.com
Friday, Oct. 23 Government Review Council • 8 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber Thursday, Oct. 29 Houchin Halloween Mixer • 5 p.m. | Houchin Community Blood Bank
Grand Opening Goodwill Industries of South Central California 3214 Coffee Rd. thegoodwill.org
UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS Community Property Management & Investments Inc. Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 11 a.m. Gothic Landscaping Thursday, Oct. 15 | 11 a.m. LB Team 2: Casa Esperanza Tuesday, Oct. 20 | 10 a.m. LB Team 4: Bakersfield Women's Center Thursday, Oct. 22 | 4 p.m. LB Team 1: CASA Clubhouse Thursday, Oct. 29 | 11 a.m. METRO | PAGE 22
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CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair of the Board Dr. Vernon B. Harper, Jr., California State University, Bakersfield Chair Elect of the Board Emily Duran, Kern Health Systems Immediate Past Chair Deanna Blaise, Valley Strong Credit Union
Ruth Klein is an author, host, and expert strategist who helps entrepreneurs spread their message and find their audience. With over 30 years of experience, she has helped countless clients build their brand, guiding them on how to turn their knowledge into books, media appearances, live talks, and more. Her program includes writing and publishing tips, media training, and certifications. Learn more at ruthklein.com.
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 Program Specialist
Get Social
Stay engaged and connected with what's happening at the Chamber by following us on these social media platforms.
@bakochamber METRO | PAGE 24
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