A publication of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber | October 2023
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INSIDE
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CEO MESSAGE
Read a message from our Interim President/CEO, Hillary Haenes
BEAUTIFUL BAKERSFIELD AWARDS 2023 A Better Bakersfield Award Recipient – Corporation of the Year
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10 SHOP LOCAL, SHOP NOW
Read about a local entrepreneur putting a new skin on wine
14 LEADERSHIP BAKERSFIELD
Learn what the class experienced on Arts and Culture Day
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NEW MEMBERS Welcome our new Chamber members
19 RIBBON CUTTINGS
Celebrate the grand openings of local businesses
21 MEMBER NEWS
Find out what our members are doing in the community
10 COVER PHOTO Winston Crite, Ken Keller and Kyle Shiloh. Photo courtesy of April & Co.
CONTACT US
1725 Eye St. • PO Box 1947 Bakersfield, CA 93303 661.327.4421 bakochamber.com
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 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 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.
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Message from the CEO We've entered the final quarter of the year, a personal favorite of mine. This season brings cool fall weather, football, comfort food and quality time with loved ones. For the Chamber, the year-end presents exciting opportunities:
This month, we have several ribbon cutting ceremonies (with more in the works) to celebrate the opening of businesses, milestone anniversaries and new community projects! I encourage you to support when possible and attend these special celebrations.
Join us on Oct. 24 for Report from the Capitol, featuring Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains. Get the latest policy updates from our local legislator.
Cheers!
Looking ahead, I'm grateful for your continued support. Together, we're making a significant impact in our community.
Attend the Labor Law & HR Forum on Nov. 16, with Attorney Daniel Klingenberger's insights on employee handbooks for businesses of all sizes. Bakersfield Young Professionals is relaunching in 2024; your input is invaluable in shaping this program's success. Complete the survey today!
Hillary Haenes
Interim President & CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Wednesday, Dec. 6, 8-10 a.m. Lino’s Venue, 1931 H St
$10 Members/Non-Members Raffle Tickets $5 for 6 Half of the proceeds will be donated to a local nonprofit organization For sponsorship opportunities email info@bakochamber.com METRO | PAGE 4
REPORT FROM THE
CAPITOL Tuesday, Oct. 24 Schedule: Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains
After a three-year hiatus, we proudly announce the return of our signature event: Report from the Capitol. Join us on Tuesday, Oct. 24 for a luncheon featuring Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains. This members-only forum provides a candid, first-hand update from our local legislator to the business community with exclusive policy updates from Sacramento.
11:30 a.m. Check-in / Networking Noon - 1:15 p.m. Program
Location: Stockdale Country Club, 7001 Stockdale Hwy.
Price: Seat $75 Table $650
To reserve your seat please email Savanah Adams at sadams@bakochamber.com. Presenting Sponsors
Co-Sponsor
Supporting Sponsors
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2023 Beautiful Bakersfield Award Recipient – Corporation of the Year After 25 glorious years in Bakersfield, the Condors are excited to continue the legacy we have built here. We recently extended our lease with the city and are thrilled to be part of such a wonderful community. The Condors Community Foundation works every day to enhance the health, education and general well-being of the residents of Kern County through community appearances, hosting fundraising events and supporting other local nonprofits. We are so grateful to be part of such an incredible community that has welcomed every change, from our ECHL days to now, with open arms and continues to support hockey in California. This past year, almost $93,000 was raised through specialty jersey auctions to benefit the Condors Community Foundation and the Ronald McDonald House. Every home game, the Condors raffled off a game-worn jersey and auctioned off a puck, stick and jersey to raise money for various charities and schools. In 2022, $32,902.20 was raised through this initiative. For the biggest games every season, the Condors donate tickets to various nonprofits through the generosity of donors from our community. These tickets allow underprivileged children and adults to attend games. Some of last year’s beneficiaries include League of Dreams, Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County, Links to Change and CASA of Kern County. With our opening night coming up on Saturday, Oct. 21, we are excited and hopeful to begin a new season and chapter and continue our efforts to give back to the community.
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We are so thankful to have accepted the award for Large Business/Corporation of the Year at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards earlier this year. It is through the combined efforts of everyone at the Condors Community Foundation and the generous fans and sponsors of the Bakersfield Condors that we can give back to our community and we hope to continue this for many years to come. To keep up with all things Condors, follow us on social media and feel free to reach out by calling 661-324-PUCK (7825). Thank you, Bakersfield & Go Condors!
Rebecca Wendler Manager, Creative Services & Digital Media Bakersfield Condors
2024 A Better Bakersfield
An annual event or project that enhances the quality of life in the community.
Architecture & Design
The completion of a brand new interior and/ or exterior building design integrating the environment with space and materials.
Arts & Culture
Efforts by a group or individual to improve and/or enhance the arts and culture within our community.
Business Person of the Year
Submit your nominations today at
beautiful.bakochamber.com! Large Business/ Corporation of the Year
The recognition of a large business (26 employees or more) whose volunteer hours and/or financial donations have made a meaningful difference.
Next Gen
An individual or group in grades K-12 that, through personal involvement and endeavors, has answered the challenge of good citizenship.
Nonprofit of the Year
A local business owner/manager whose efforts truly impact and enhance the quality of life in the community.
Efforts of a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that impacts the community.
Education
The completion of a renovated design that upgrades an existing structure and/ or incorporates the use of landscaping to enhance the aesthetic value of the property.
Efforts by an educator, project or school/ college that promotes or benefits education in our city at all levels.
Renovation & Tenant Improvement
Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement
Small Business of the Year
Health
Urban Revitalization
Humanitarian Group
Young Professional
A local long-time community leader, age 55 and over, who has made a lasting impact to Bakersfield and its residents.
An individual, group or organization impacting healthy living - above and beyond their normal scope of activities - through education, prevention or medical services. A group whose personal volunteer efforts have made a significant impact in the community.
A small business (25 employees or less) whose contributions and/or products and services instill community pride. An individual, business or organization that has made a meaningful contribution in the past year to placemaking, reimagining how we live, work and play. An individual, age 18-40, whose efforts truly impact and enhance the quality of life in the community.
Humanitarian Individual
An individual whose personal volunteer efforts have made a significant impact in the community. PLEASE NOTE: Nominations must be for work completed in 2023 to be eligible for consideration. No more than two nominations per individual, business or organization will be considered.
Nomination Deadline: Friday, February 2, 2024 METRO | PAGE 7
Whiny Baby Wine: A Gen Z Revolution in Vino
From Grocery Aisles to a Game-Changing Collaboration: Jess Druey’s Journey to Reshape the Wine Industry with the McBride Sisters. Meet 26-year-old entrepreneur Jess Druey, proudly born and raised in Bakersfield. She was working at Red Bull and living in Los Angeles when COVID-19 struck. While sheltering in place, Jess had an epiphany — the wine industry seemed to have, in her words, “an old people problem.” With restaurants shut down, she found herself adrift in a sea of grocery store wines looking for the perfect bottle to enjoy for a first date. She was intimidated by the shelves covered in unpronounceable labels. It was then that Jess quickly realized that the mysterious world of wine was in need of a major refresh and a brand that better suited the needs of her generation; one that makes wine relevant to their lifestyles. So, Jess moved home and began to pursue her newfound dream of owning her own wine company. “I’m reconnecting to my agricultural roots, and I’m taking my community with me,” she said. Jess hopes to help solve a problem for her generation by easing social anxiety through her new wine company, Whiny Baby. “The playful name Whiny Baby pokes fun at Gen Z’s ‘whiny’ reputation while celebrating their ability METRO | PAGE 10
to openly express themselves unlike any other generation,” she noted. The bottle labels encourage those who enjoy, to engage, and indulge in conversation over a glass. “Whiny Baby isn’t only focused on selling wine, we want to cultivate community, both online and offline,” said Jess. “Whiny Baby’s spirit is to bring people together, no matter their age or background. It’s about those shared experiences, enjoying a glass of wine after a long day.” For Jess and her brand, it’s all about “connectionbased consumption.” Whether it’s connecting with oneself or with others, connection she says, is at the heartbeat of Whiny Baby. The brand’s mission is to spark moments that ignite conversations and foster friendships. “I recall wondering to myself, with wine being such a powerful tool, why did no brand seem to resonate with me or understand what I was looking for in my experience of consuming it,” she said. “That’s why I started Whiny Baby. We believe in inclusivity, authenticity and accessibility in everything we do! Choosing a wine doesn’t need to be intimidating, confusing or even hard to pronounce.” Each one of the Whiny Baby wines is ethically made from high-quality and socially responsibly produced
Giovanna(Gio) Sacco (left), is Whiny Baby’s Community and Content Manager, she grew up in Bakersfield and is the only other full-time dedicated employee.
grapes, which studies show are top concerns for Gen Z when making a purchase. “Whiny Baby lets you focus on the fun and delicious experience of wine!” said Jess. “With authenticity and transparency at the heart of everything we do, our business operations and strategy are no different.” Following the success of Whiny Baby’s initial online launch in 2021, it was clear to Jess that she had tapped into something truly special. To grow her business, she knew she needed trusted partners and mentors in the wine industry who believed in Whiny Baby’s mission and trusted them to continue what she had started. However, the journey to bring Whiny Baby to life wasn’t without its challenges. Jess found herself navigating the intricate world of wine for the first time. “It’s been the most gratifying years of my life, but it’s been really, really hard,” she said. “I don't think that people talk enough about the journey, you know, because people just see the glitz and glamor of owning a business.” Instead of taking traditional routes, Jess reached out far and wide – making calls, sending DMs and
shooting out LinkedIn messages. She sought trusted partners and industry mentors who believed in the essence of Whiny Baby. As Jess Druey was diving headfirst into the wine industry, a podcast episode featuring the story of the McBride Sisters lit a spark. “While I was in full start-up mode, my mom nudged me to tune into the ‘How I Built This’ episode featuring the McBride Sisters (the largest Black owned winery in the United States),” she said. “I was so moved by their journey in the wine industry that I just knew I needed to connect. I was unstoppable. I pursued every avenue, from stalking to emailing, to get their attention.” Persistence, as it turns out, has its rewards. After months of pursuit, Jess secured a meeting with the sisters. The outcome? “It went brilliantly,” said Jess, “Today, we’ve merged our visions in a joint venture.” The pivot in Jess’ journey from an inspired listener to a business partner with the McBride Sisters is the stuff of Gen Z dreams. “It feels surreal. Here I am, partnering with a brand I once admired from afar,” she said. The collaboration underscores a shared ethos: METRO | PAGE 11
Combining the wealth of heritage expertise with the vigor of emerging innovation. The McBride Sisters are no strangers to challenging the status quo. With a reputation for breaking industry norms and crafting exquisite wines, their partnership with Whiny Baby promises a fresh fusion of tradition and trend. “We’re on a shared mission,” Jess emphasized, “transforming the wine industry, leading by example and cultivating community.” With the support of the McBride Sisters’ industry acumen, business savvy and top-tier wine-making team, the future looks bright for Whiny Baby. Andréa McBride John reflected in a press release, “Jess has followed her instincts and created a California wine brand that captures exactly what Gen Z wants from a wine brand and the overall wine experience through a vision focused on community. She’s a fearless and determined entrepreneur, and we are thrilled to support her in her growth and evolution of the brand, breaking all the old-school wine rules and having too much fun along the way.” Since partnering with the McBride Sisters, Whiny Baby wines have been produced with their winemaking team and through existing partnerships. Whiny Baby is female-owned and operated by Jess and Community and Content Manager, Giovanna METRO | PAGE 12
(Gio) Sacco. Together, they work out of their downtown Bakersfield office. Gio is fifth generation Luigi’s Restaurant and Delicatessen family, where you can purchase Whiny Baby wines. If anyone wants to work with Whiny Baby through events, content, etc., they can connect with Gio at gio@ whinybaby.com. “Together (Jess and Gio), we’re going to grow the Whiny Baby community starting here in Bakersfield and I couldn’t be more excited about the journey ahead,” said Jess. “Together, we have shown that Bakersfield roots run deep and that friends can successfully work together!” Currently, Bakersfield residents can purchase Whiny Baby wines at Sully’s and Luigi’s, with a target to be in grocery stores across the United States beginning in October 2023. The three Whiny Baby wines are blends of wines sourced from the finest vineyards in California with no additives known besides sulfur dioxide and minimal grape concentrate for sweetness. You can learn more about Whiny Baby on their website at whinybaby.com or follow them on Instagram @whinybaby.
Whiny Baby’s Wine Portfolio “Unwind” White Blend: Aromas of ripe pear, pineapple and peach bring fruit cocktail to mind, while the palate sings with a citrusy freshness. Chilled or even over ice, this wine is summer in a glass. Chenin Blanc and Viognier form the backbone of this blend, but it’s the Riesling that dominates and really gives the aromatic lift Whiny Baby aimed for in this wine. “OMG?!?” Fizzy Rosé Blend: Pop the cap on this rosé gold stunner and enjoy flavors of strawberry, nectarine and crushed raspberry, graced with gentle bubbles and a kiss of sweetness. Led by Merlot, this wine also benefits from small additions of aromatic whites (Riesling, Muscat) that enhance the fruit aromas and flavors. “Obsessed” Red Blend: Vibrant, with ripe red cherry and berry fruit on the nose. The wine’s easy drinkability and long, satisfying finish make it delightful right off the shelf or chilled for poolside enjoyment. Using primarily Zinfandel and Merlot, Whiny Baby crafted this wine to be approachable, with minimal tannin and a crisp, fruit-forward personality.
Sponsored by
Arts & Culture Day Leadership Bakersfield
Exploring Bakersfieldʼs Vibrant Arts & Culture: A day filled with art, performances and history as Leadership Bakersfieldʼs 2023 Class delves into the creative scene.
With a goal of highlighting the abundance and rich history of the arts & culture of Bakersfield, Leadership Bakersfield’s 2023 Class was given a full agenda covering the visual and performing arts in and around our down-town area. Participants embarked on a journey into the heart of our city to discover Bakersfieldʼs rich artistic heritage and the thriving arts scene. The day commenced with a hearty breakfast at the Boys & Girls Club, setting the stage for an enriching adventure. Participants then engaged in a hands-on artistic exercise and lecture led by local art legend Art Sherwyn, highlighting the profound impact of art on personal and professional development. Exploring Downtown Bakersfield during a walking tour unveiled the intentional development of space Thank you to our Program Underwriter
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and public art that has shaped our cityʼs identity. The Fox Theater and Stars Theater treated everyone to delightful performances. Delicious dining prepared by Mossmanʼs Catering was enjoyed while a quartet from the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra serenaded the participants. Visits to the Portrait of a Warrior Gallery and the Bakersfield Museum of Art provided opportunities to delve into the cityʼs art and history. The day concluded with a powerful youth flashmob performance at the RAM Gallery, bringing the day to a close with the message that the arts are all around us and accessible…if we just take a moment to enjoy. The Greater Bakersfield Chamber extends our heartfelt thanks to our day chairs, Holly Arnold & Zane Smith, for orchestrating the “Best Day Ever!” Our sincere appreciation also goes to Chevron and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County for their invaluable support. Arts and culture are woven into the very fabric of our community, shaping our identity and providing inspiration for all to enjoy. Thank you to our Day Sponsors
LABOR LAW & HR F O R U M
Creating a Compliant Employee Handbook: Do’s and Don’ts Small and large employers should have an employee handbook. The handbook is an excellent way to communicate legally required information to employees and to create policies that assist with operating a business. Care must be taken in drafting the handbook to avoid creating risk. This presentation by Partner and Attorney Daniel Klingenberger of LeBeau Thelen LLP will address recommended policies employers should implement.
Daniel Klingenberger Sponsored by
D AT E : Thursday, Nov. 16 T I M E : 8-10 a.m. Forum L O C AT I O N : Chamber Office, 1725 Eye St. C O S T: $30 Members; $60 Nonmembers REGISTER: info@bakochamber.com or call 661-327-4421
Be transported to an authentic Brazilian Churrasco dining experience. Delight your palate with signature cuts of meats carved tableside, fresh Brazilian salads and gourmet specialties, paired with fine wines.
FLAMEANDFIRE.COM/BAKERSFIELD (661) 498-7577
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E N D OF SU MM E R
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All photos are courtesy of April & Co. View all the photos from the Mixer here.
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Welcome New Chamber Members We’d like to extend a warm welcome to the companies that have joined the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Thank you for investing in our mission to Build a Better Bakersfield.
Dewar’s Candy Shop 16123 Stockdale Hwy., Ste. 100 Bakersfield, CA 93314 661-829-8700 dewarscandy.com
Sunshine Behavioral Health Services 4664 American Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93309 661-800-9155 sunshinebhs.com
“We manufacture and sell ice cream and candy.”
“Provide psychiatry and therapy services in Kern County.”
Gold Standard Mortgage 3512 Coffee Rd., #C Bakersfield, CA 93311 661-337-0266 goldstandardmortgage.com
Whiny Baby 2005 Eye St., Unit 8 Bakersfield, CA 93311 661-487-7645 whinybaby.com
“We are a group of mortgage professionals looking to help in our community.”
“We are an emerging wine brand. You can find us in Luigi’s and Sully’s - in the fall will be launching in Target and Bevmo!”
Kustom Kutz Construction Inc. 661-437-1130 “General contractors serving all areas of California. Specializing in wood framing for residential and commercial projects.” Little Guide Bakersfield 661-234-8836 mylittleguide.com “Little Guide Bakersfield is a social media, website and pocket guide for local residents to discover hidden gem businesses in Bakersfield and the surrounding areas.” MB2 Entertainment 1251 Oak St. Bakersfield, CA 93304 513-226-6720 “Family entertainment center.” Econolodge Bakersfield 1030 Wible Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93304 661-282-8872 “Econolodge Bakersfield is a hotel lodging facility that accommodates the general public and all types of businesses.”
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Youthology Medical Aesthetics 2601 F St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-479-7788 "Youthology is a medical aesthetics spa that focuses on health, wellness and beauty. Our goal is to create a more youthful you!" Zenith Career Center-Altamont Healthcare 2601 F St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-479-7788 “Altamont Healthcare is committed to training motivated individuals to pursue a career in health care.”
RIBBON CUTTINGS PAST RIBBON CUTTINGS
UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS Continental Labor and Staffing Resources Date: Thursday, Oct. 19 Time: 4 p.m. Location: 900 Mohawk St., Ste. 120
Grand Opening California Neurology Institute 8335 Brimhall Rd., Bldg. 1100 caneuroinst.com
Grand Opening Elite Aesthetics & Dermatology 3409 Calloway Dr., Ste. 602 eliteaestheticsandderm.com
Temblor Tavern Date: Thursday, Oct. 26 Time: 3 p.m. Location: 1420 17th Pl.
Leadership Bakersfield: The Apple Core Project Date: Monday, Oct. 30 Time: 2 p.m. Location: 616 Grace St. Grand Opening Kern County Museum’s Lori Brock Discovery Center Gift Shop – Leadership Bakersfield Team 1 3801 Chester Ave. kerncountymuseum.org/lori-brockdiscovery-center
Grand Opening Max’s Restaurant
4130 California Ave. maxsrestaurantna.com
Grand Opening Youthology Medical Aesthetics 5701 Young St., Bld. B, Ste. 302 theyouthology.com
Leadership Bakersfield: Garden Pathways Date: Monday, Oct. 30 Time: 4 p.m. Location: 1130 17th St.
RSVP
RSVP
RSVP
RSVP
SCHEDULE YOUR CEREMONY For more information or to schedule a ribbon cutting, please contact us at info@bakochamber.com.
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Renewing Members
Que Buena Broadcasting, Inc. - 2022 S.C. Anderson - 1990 Sunpower by Quality Home Services - 2017
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.
Tri Counties Bank - California Ave. - 2009
All American Glass Co. - 2009
Water Associates - 2022 Western Nutrients Corp. - 2012 White Stone Painters - 2014 Woodbridge Pacific Group - 2017
Bakersfield Rehabilitation Hospital - 2021 Blue Line Solutions, Inc. - 2022 Bolthouse Properties, LLC - 2006 California City Landowners Association - 2014 Casa Esperanza - 2019 Dr. Stephen Ratty, Optometrist - 1994 Dress For Success - Bakersfield - 2013 E.R.F. Incorporated DBA Central Valley Medical Supplies - 2022 Educational Employees Credit Union - 2022 eMedia - 2011 Enterprise Rent-A-Car - Gasoline Alley Dr. - 2012 Environmental Sound Solutions, Inc. - 2010 Fit Pantry, Inc. - 2022 Glinn and Giordano Physical Therapy - 2019 Greenlawn Funeral Homes, Cemeteries & Cremations - 2007 Grimmway Farms - 2008 Habitat for Humanity Golden Empire ReStore SW - 2016 Happy Whole You - 2018 Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary - 1963 Homewood Suites by Hilton - 2004 Houchin Community Blood Bank - Oswell St. - 2022 Houchin Community Blood Bank- Truxtun Ave. - 2022
Ultrex Business Products, Inc. - 1999 University of LaVerne - 1996
Upcoming Events October 2023 10.19.23 Ribbon Cutting 4 p.m. | Continental Labor and Staffing Resources 10.20.23 GRC 8 a.m. | Chamber 10.24.23 Report from the Capitol 11:30 a.m. | Stockdale Country Club
Iron Nikkel Construction, Inc. - 2021 Jaco Oil Company - 1990 JSS Almonds - 2015 Kern Dance Alliance - 2017 Lamar Advertising - 2011 Mechanics Bank Arena Theater & Convention Center - 1998 Mody Pumps Inc. - 2011 Nibbana Healthcare Inc. - 2022 Oildale Mutual Water Company - 2022 Padre Hotel, LP - 2009 Personal Express Insurance - 2009
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10.26.23 Ribbon Cutting 3 p.m. | Temblor Tavern 10.30.23 Ribbon Cutting 2 p.m. | The Apple Core Project's Community Hub Ribbon Cutting 4 p.m. | Garden Pathways 10.31.23 Ambassador Committee Meeting Noon | Chamber
Member News Kern Dance Alliance - is offering ADAPTIdance®: DANCE + DISABILITY Saturdays through Nov. 4. Registration is now OPEN! ADAPTIdance is Kern County’s only curriculum-based adaptive dance program, serving people with disabilities, ages 5-22. Participants learn inclusive and creative dances that are accessible and adaptable for movers with and without disabilities. Three different classes are offered on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and are based upon age, ability and experience. ADAPTIdance is held at the dance studio at Garces Memorial High School for six weeks ending with a special performance at the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater! Register online or call 661-616-9122.
moving and authentic connection to the impact made by Teen Challenge, bringing to life the true significance of the Miracles of God.In addition to the captivating testimonials and stories of redemption, Gala to Give features a silent auction.Teen Challenge of Southern California is celebrating 60 years of sharing God's love and seeing tens of thousands of lives transformed through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.Proceeds from our Gala to Give will enable us to continue the vital work of bringing hope, freedom, and life transformation to those who are struggling with addiction. To purchase tickets visit Gala to Give Tickets, Fri, Nov 3, 2023 at 5:30 PM | Eventbrite.
Advance Beverage Company - is hosting the William K. Lazzerini Challenge Cup at Stockdale Country Club on Monday, Oct. 23. Proceeds benefit Bakersfield Police Activities League. $600 per team/4 person scramble. Lunch served before start, 10 a.m. shotgun start, putting contest and award dinner following tournament. Tee sign sponsorships are $150. Purchases a tee sign and be entered into a drawing to win Oakley sunglasses. For more info or to sponsor, please call 661-833-3783.
Alzheimer’s Association - Save the Date for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association on Saturday, Oct. 21 at The Park at RiverWalk. More details to come by visiting HERE.
JJ’s Legacy - invites you to attend its eighth annual Grillin’ and Brewin’ event that will take place Thursday, Nov. 9. This much-anticipated fundraising event will have the same delicious, mouth-watering barbecue prepared by local award-winning competition barbecue team, The Ridge Route Boys, Curtis Trigueiro and Porkchop and Bubba’s BBQ will join! New this year – popular local country music star Joe Peters will be the entertainment. Sponsorship opportunities, reserved tables and individual event tickets are available. We would also be honored to have your donations of goods, gift cards, services, products, and other silent auction items. The fundraiser benefits JJ’s Legacy Got the Dot High School Leadership Program and Club. This essential learning platform educates local students about the need and importance of registering to become an organ, eye, and tissue donor. Please contact Savannah Bettis, Auction Chair, 661-4730087 or 661-489-4430 or Savannah@jjslegacy.org. To purchase tickets Click Here. The Golden Empire Gleaners presents Rhythm & Roots - featuring “The Voice” finalist Jim Ranger on Friday Oct. 20, The Gardens at Mill Creek, 6-10 p.m. Barbecue, music, raffle, no-host bar. For more information, click here. Kern County Teen Challenge Gala to Give – Teen Challenge is celebrating 60 years of life-transforming miracles and Kern County is having its first-ever Gala to showcase. Friday, Nov. 3 from 5:30-8:30 p.m., at Stockdale Country Club, 7001 Stockdale Hwy. An elegant dinner will be served along with a delightful assortment of expertly crafted mocktails and hors d'oeuvres.Video and live testimonies take center stage, allowing individuals whose lives have been touched by God to share their inspiring stories. These personal accounts provide a
League of Dreams - Wine, Women & Shoes benefiting League of Dreams is seeking Shoe Guys for their annual event happening Saturday, Oct. 21 from 5-9 p.m. at The Edward’s Estate. You will have the opportunity to introduce yourself and talk about your business to a crowd of affluent, well-connected guests and build camaraderie and network with your fellow Shoe Guys. To become a Shoe Guy or for more information, contact Jessica Mathews at jessica@studio4forty.com or call 661332-4466. Blue Zones Project - Bakersfield will co-host the Active Transportation Summit and Festival with the City of Bakersfield on Saturday, Oct. 21 from noon to 4 p.m., at the Bakersfield Community House, 2020 R St. This free event will serve two purposes: To ask residents for feedback on how they feel about the current state of walking, biking, rolling and driving on Bakersfield streets and to provide an outlet for family-friendly activities and education. Bakersfield Museum of Art - The annual Via Arté Italian Street Painting Festival has become a Bakersfield tradition, bringing together the community and the visual arts since 1998. Using the asphalt as canvas, spectators watch each year as artists unlock their imaginations and turn the parking lot of the Marketplace into a gallery of amazing chalk masterpieces. This family-friendly event allows visitors to create their own masterpiece! Hundreds of children (and adults) participate each year in our Via Bambino area, showcasing their talents and trying their hand at the ancient art of street painting. Via Arté Italian Street Painting Festival is Oct. 21-22 at The Marketplace Bakersfield 9000 Ming Ave. from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day.
For more Member News click here
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CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE FOCUS 2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman of the Board Ken Keller Bakersfield Memorial Hospital - Dignity Health Incoming Chairman Rob Duchow Southern California Gas Company
Chevron - Chevron has been an essential part of the Kern County community, producing local oil and gas for more than 100 years. We believe the future of energy is lower carbon. At Chevron, we’re lowering the carbon emissions intensity of our operations, investing in lower carbon technologies, and exploring renewable fuels of the future. Learn more at chevron.com/newenergies.
MAJOR INVESTORS
Mark Bateman – Young Wooldridge LLP Deanna Blaise – Valley Strong Credit Union Bruce Davis – Bolthouse Properties Octavio Escobedo – Tejon Indian Tribe Kamal Gill – Brimhall Pharmacy/Panama Pharmacy Maybelle Liquigan – Kaiser Permanente Denise Newton – PG&E
CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MEMBERS
Jacob Panero – Varner Bros, Inc. Veronika Placencia – KERO-TV 23 G Riar – Riar, Inc. Willie Rivera – Aera Energy
CHAMBER STAFF Hillary Haenes Interim President & CEO Kami Gonzalez Director, Administration & Operations Concepcion "Cepi" Willingham Member & Business Development Manager Savanah Adams Manager, Stakeholder Engagement Valerie Sheldon Administrative Assistant
Get Social Stay engaged and connected with what's happening at the Chamber by following us on these social media platforms.
@bakochamber
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