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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.

Message from the CEO

A Year of Momentum

Dear Chamber Members,

February was a short month with a full agenda. Through consistent leadership and strategic engagement, our Chamber continued to build momentum and deliver measurable impact for our members and community.

We closed nominations for the 2026 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards with an incredible 310 individual nominations. That level of participation highlights our community’s commitment to celebrating excellence. Over the next month, nominations will move through a structured vetting process involving impartial, ethically grounded community members and our BBA Committee. Integrity and transparency remain central to this signature program and to everything we do.

Our Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2026 participated in an impactful Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement Day, gaining firsthand insight into local law enforcement operations. The day included presentations from Captain Ryan Kroeker and Sergeant Verion Coleman of the Bakersfield Police Department, a Community Relations Unit tour led by Supervisor Carina Ortiz, and an expert panel featuring Chief Greg Terry, District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer, and Attorney Jared Thompson. The experience concluded with demonstrations from the K-9 Unit, Bomb Squad, SWAT Team, and UAV teams at the Police Activities League (PAL). You can read more about the day on page 10.

We also hosted our New Year Labor Law & HR Forum, where attorneys provided timely updates on legislation and court decisions impacting California employers. In today’s regulatory environment, staying informed is not optional; it is essential to protecting businesses and supporting workforce stability.

Our first Coffee with the Chamber of the year, featuring Danny Hill, brought together new and prospective members for valuable insights on marketing and business growth, made possible through the support of Ivy Park and Hill Broadcasting. These gatherings continue to strengthen connections that fuel opportunity across our region.

February also brings meaningful observances. Go Red for Women Month emphasizes heart health awareness and prevention. Healthy leaders create healthy organizations, and healthy organizations drive economic resilience.

We proudly recognize Kimberly Price, Manager of Community Events, whose feature in Bakersfield Life Magazine reflects her professionalism, dedication and heart for community. Her leadership helps deliver the high-quality experiences that define our Chamber programming.

We also honor Black History Month, recognizing the contributions and leadership of Black Americans throughout history and within our community. While visibility may vary, our commitment to understanding and acknowledging its importance does not.

As we move through 2026, our focus remains clear: advocate for growth, convene leaders, deliver value-driven programs, and build lasting momentum for Bakersfield’s future.

Thank you for leading with us.

Blessings,

President & CEO

Janelle Capra

Greater Bakersfield Chamber

New Frontier Consulting honored with "Small Business of the Year" Award

The journey to becoming the Greater Bakersfield Chamber's 2025 "Small Business of the Year" actually started a year prior. Attending our first Beautiful Bakersfield Awards (BBA), we sat near the back, struck by the elegance of the event and the outstanding community leaders in the room. We made a quiet pact: winning this award was New Frontier Consulting’s next major goal.

Fast forward to early 2025. When notified of our nomination, we were deeply humbled— honestly, just being nominated in our second year of business felt like a massive win. Because we specialize in Digital Marketing and Human Resources, we decided to lean heavily into our marketing roots. Assuming we wouldn't take home the trophy on our first try, our strategy was simply to stand out and get as many eyes on us as possible.

The evening’s theme was the Met Gala, so we fully committed to the bit, arriving in the iconic ruffled blue and orange tuxedos from Dumb and Dumber. To elevate the stunt, we hired Josh Moore from Story Kings to shadow us as our personal paparazzi and document the night.

We walked into the BBA having no idea how we’d be received. The answer came quickly. We were immediately pulled into photos by peers, community leaders, and even the Bakersfield Police Department. It was overwhelming, exciting, and incredibly fun. Once the interviews wrapped,

we found our table and finally relaxed. Feeling zero pressure, we just wanted to enjoy the evening.

When our category was announced, our nomination photo flashed on the big screens—a dedicated recreation of the Step Brothers movie poster. The crowd erupted in laughter. In that moment, we felt like we had won all over again.

Then came the ultimate plot twist: they announced New Frontier Consulting as the winner.

We were in such disbelief we hadn't even paid attention to how to actually get to the stage. I spoke first, and if it wasn't recorded, I couldn't tell you a single word I said through the shock. Thankfully, my partner Justin is a professional speaker and stepped up to deliver an elegant, impromptu acceptance.

Taking home this award is a profoundly humbling milestone, and we are incredibly thankful to the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce for hosting this wonderful event every year. This honor hasn't changed our focus—it has supercharged our commitment to helping Bakersfield’s small businesses succeed. We can't wait for what's next.

Mahlon Davis, New Frontier Consulting

Inside Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement Day

Leadership Bakersfield’s Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement Day on Friday, Feb. 13, delivered access to local law enforcement, creating moments that challenged assumptions and shifted perspectives across the class.

Bakersfield Police Department’s Captain Ryan Kroeker and Sgt. Verion Coleman opened with an overview of modern policing and a discussion of officer wellness, including the department’s Wellness Center, a resource many participants said they had not known existed. The conversation around mental health, once rarely discussed in law enforcement, resonated deeply.

After walking to BPD headquarters, the class heard from the department’s Community Relations Unit, which detailed youth outreach efforts, neighborhood partnerships, and data-informed engagement strategies. For many, it was an education in scope.

The presentation shed light on a broader theme of the day: that public safety is not solely reactive. It is relational, preventative, and collaborative.

The morning’s criminal justice panel brought together Police Chief Greg Terry, District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer, and defense attorney Jared Thompson.

The discussion highlighted both alignment and tension within the justice system. Participants valued hearing prosecution and defense perspectives alongside law enforcement leadership, noting that

understanding the system requires examining it from multiple vantage points.

By mid-morning, the class entered the simulator room, an experience frequently described afterward as transformative.

The Force Options Simulator placed participants in evolving scenarios requiring rapid assessment and decision-making under stress. The emotional intensity surprised many.

After lunch at the Police Activities League facility, the focus shifted to youth engagement and long-term prevention. Staff described mentoring programs, athletics, and safe spaces designed to build trust before crisis intervention is ever required.

Many participants expressed interest in volunteering or exploring ways their Leadership Bakersfield class might support PAL in the future.

The afternoon continued with interactive demonstrations from K-9, Bomb Squad, SWAT, and UAV units. Watching highly trained teams explain their equipment and preparation left a strong impression. Participants spoke of gaining respect for the discipline, structure, and training required in specialized units.

Suggestions centered largely on logistics, tightening rotation times, adding seating, and increasing hydration support during outdoor sessions, refinements to an otherwise engaging experience.

The day concluded with the City’s Office of Violence Intervention & Prevention. A personal testimony anchored a broader conversation about collaborative strategies to reduce violence and strengthen neighborhoods. Attendees described the story as powerful and moving, reinforcing the day’s recurring theme: prevention matters.

In a civic climate where public safety conversations can become polarized or abstract, Leadership Bakersfield’s approach was immersive and grounded in access.

Participants were not asked to agree. They were asked to observe, question, and experience. For many, that proved transformative.

Special thanks to the program underwriter, Chevron, for its continued investment in Leadership Bakersfield, and to the day sponsor, the Bakersfield Police Officers Association, for supporting this immersive experience. Their commitment ensures that emerging leaders gain firsthand exposure to the institutions shaping public life in Bakersfield.

Seize the opportunity to become a day sponsor for the 2026 cohort. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@bakochamber.com

Mixer Hourglass Hotel hosts Chamber members

The Greater Bakersfield Chamber kicked off its first mixer of the year in partnership with Hourglass Hotel, bringing together over 50 guests for a night of networking and connection.

Hourglass Hotel provides guests with a boutique experience featuring luxurious decor and functional amenities. Guests had the chance to tour the hotel's courtyard and rooms that are avaialbe for conferences, meetings, and other business needs. They also had the opportunity to enter to win a variety of raffle prizes, including a free stay at the hotel to relax and unwind.

This free mixer was a wonderful kickoff to a great year ahead. We look forward to more opportunities for connection, community, and the chance to support local businesses.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS UPDATE

February 2026

By Joel Paramo, Senior Director of Strategic Communications

Through proactive advocacy, coalition partnerships, and member-driven engagement, the Chamber serves as a constructive partner in policy development, fostering regulatory clarity, fiscal discipline, workforce development, infrastructure investment, and transparent governance.

As conversations regarding revenue, budgeting priorities, and potential tax adjustments emerge at the city and county levels, we continue to ensure that the voice of the business community is represented early and consistently. Responsible fiscal policy requires transparent stakeholder engagement, careful analysis of economic impact, and a balanced approach that sustains essential public services while maintaining a competitive environment for employers and residents alike.

At its most recent meeting, the Chamber’s Board of Directors formally adopted the following positions:

SUPPORT – Building an Affordable California Act

The Chamber supports this CEQA modernization initiative to streamline permitting timelines, reduce litigation delays, and improve regulatory certainty while

preserving environmental and public health protections. Building an Affordable California Act is currently in the signature-gathering phase for the November 2026 ballot.

SUPPORT – Kern County Charter Status

The Chamber reaffirmed its conditional endorsement of Kern County transitioning to Charter County status. Our support emphasizes transparency, accountability safeguards, voter engagement, and clearly defined governance procedures.

OPPOSE – AB 1608 (High-Speed Rail Records Confidentiality)

The Chamber opposes legislation that would expand authority to withhold public records. Transparency and accountability are essential in major public infrastructure projects.

OPPOSE – AB 1776 (Cartwright Act Expansion)

The Chamber opposes expanding criminal antitrust exposure to single-firm conduct without clear economic standards. We are concerned that such changes could create regulatory uncertainty, increase litigation risk, and discourage investment in California.

Policy & Advocacy Highlights

In alignment with our adopted Policy Platform and longstanding commitment to regulatory clarity and economic predictability, the Chamber has also taken positions on the following issues.

OPPOSE - AB 1576 (Ortega)

This proposal would modify competition law without establishing comprehensive, clearly

defined reform standards. Without predictable economic thresholds and clear guardrails, the bill risks increasing legal ambiguity for employers. The Chamber continues to advocate for thoughtful, data-driven reforms that protect consumers while maintaining a stable business climate.

SUPPORT – SB 892 (Grove)

The Chamber supports SB 892, which strengthens and clarifies priority course registration protections for California veterans and State Guard members. The measure ensures veterans can use their priority registration benefits at any point in their lives, recognizing that many delay higher education while building careers, supporting families, or addressing service-related needs. By aligning California policy with federal standards, the bill enhances workforce flexibility, supports credential attainment, and strengthens the regional talent pipeline.

Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF) Reform

The Chamber joined statewide business partners in supporting proposed budget trailer bill language addressing structural reforms to the SIBTF. Independent analyses, including reports from RAND and the Legislative Analyst’s Office, have documented significant cost growth and misalignment with the program’s original intent. The proposed reforms would: Clarify eligibility standards, require documented pre-existing conditions, restore appropriate disability-combination methodologies and apply established medical-legal reporting procedures These changes aim to curb escalating employer assessments, reduce system backlogs, and protect both

public and private-sector budgets.

Permitting Reform

In addition to statewide efforts directed towards CEQA reform, the Chamber signed onto a national coalition letter urging the U.S. Senate to prioritize bipartisan permitting reform legislation. Modernized permitting processes are essential to advancing infrastructure projects, including broadband expansion, transportation upgrades, energy development, and water system improvements. Streamlined review timelines will reduce delays, lower costs, and accelerate investment that benefits families and businesses across our region.

UAS LEAP Funding Support

The Chamber is supporting a $5.35 million FY27 funding request for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Live Experimentation and Accelerated Prototyping (UAS LEAP) program at Edwards Air Force Base. This initiative strengthens national security, accelerates UAS and counter-UAS testing timelines, and enhances pathways from commercial innovation to military deployment. For Kern County, it reinforces Edwards AFB’s longterm mission relevance, supports high-wage technical employment, and advances aerospace innovation and American manufacturing.

Monitoring & Emerging Issues

The Chamber remains actively engaged in monitoring emerging policy developments at the local, regional, and federal levels that have the potential to impact our business community and regional economy.

At the county level, we are closely tracking discussions surrounding potential adjustments to the transient occupancy tax structure, recognizing the importance of balancing revenue needs with competitiveness in our hospitality and tourism sectors.

At the city level, we are monitoring ongoing sewer rate proceedings conducted under Prop 218 to ensure transparency, fiscal accountability, and meaningful stakeholder engagement throughout the process.

Regionally, we continue to assess lodging tax

alignment conversations and evolving short-term rental policy trends, particularly as neighboring jurisdictions evaluate regulatory frameworks that could influence market conditions and business operations here in Kern County.

Federally, we are reviewing recent court decisions related to tariff authority, including potential refund mechanisms and broader implications for supply chains, cost structures, and long-term trade stability.

As these issues evolve, the Chamber will provide timely updates to our members and engage where appropriate to ensure the voice of the local business community remains represented in policy discussions that shape our economic future.

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.

California Special Districts Association

1112 I Street, Suite 200 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 442-7887

csda.net

"We support and provide resources to special districts, like the Golden Empire Transit District, unique local government entities serving specific community needs and functions."

Indoff LLC

4800 Native Dancer Drive

Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 587-6127

commercialdesign.indoff.com

“Indoff is a National Retail Dealer for Office Furniture (Indoff and Outdoor) as well as Material Handling for all the warehouse equipment needs.”

Legends

7900 Downing Ave. #B Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 343-3385

“We are a full service restaurant with an event center and outdoor gardens.”

Mattress Emporium

4021 Calloway Dr. Ste 100 Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 549-0825 mattressemporium.com

“Mattress Emporium delivers personalized sleep solutions, premium brands, and expert guidance, helping you sleep better, live healthier, and wake up renewed every day."

McWilliams & Walden Inc. 4201 East Brundage Lane Bakersfield, CA 93307 (661) 321-9952 mcwilliamsandwalden.com

“Family-owned and Bakersfield-trusted, McWilliams & Walden delivers expert auto repair, honest service, and confidence on every drive."

MY KIDS HAPPY TEETH 1714 Calloway Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93312 (714) 862-8243

mykidshappyteeth.com

“Pediatric dentistry with gentle care and a focus on prevention. Specializing in behavior management in order to provide positive experiences for your little ones."

Printz 301 H St. Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 319-4989 printz.us

" Full-service local print shop delivering custom banners, apparel, decals, stickers, business cards, and graphics fast turnaround, professional quality, and reliable support for businesses and events."

R.M. Pyles Camp 27211 Henry Mayo Dr Valencia, CA 91355 (661) 294-1394 pylescamp.com

“Kern County-based nonprofit FREE wilderness leadership camp empowering underserved youth through outdoor education, mentorship, and character development since 1949."

Spectrum 4142 California Ave., Suite 14 Bakersfield, CA 93309 (619) 539-3340 spectrum.com

"Spectrum Store for customers to explore Spectrum Internet, Mobile, TV, Voice, and shop devices and accessories."

Renewing Members

A-C Electric Company - 1951

AES - 2015

AT&T California - 1946

Bakersfield Community Healthcare - 2023

Bakersfield Family Medical Center - 1983

Bakersfield Museum of Art - 1996

Bank of the Sierra - California Ave. Branch2017

Barrett Business Services, Inc. (BBSI) - 2014 Barron Air Conditioning and Heating - 2025

California Resources Corporation - 1970 Cattani Farms, LLC - 2024

Community Connection for Childcare/ KCSOS - 1988

Core Chiropractic + Wellness - 2018 Courtyard by Marriott Hotel - 1997

D.R. Horton - 2023

Eagle Mountain Casino - 2004

Granite Construction - 1977

Heart Vascular and Leg Center - 2010

JJ's Legacy - 2013

Kern Bros. Trucking, Inc. - 1990 KERO-TV 23 - 1946

Lux Dermatology - 2023

Moo Creamery - 2025

Nile Point Veterinary Hospital, Inc. - 1966

Placer Title Company - 2008

Premier Pain Management - 2021

Pyrenees French Bakery, Inc. - 1958

Quality Home Services - 2017

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers - Coffee Rd. - 2019

Sabo Physical Therapy, Inc. - 2024

Serban Sound and Communications - 1986 Stockdale Podiatry Group - 1998 StructureCast - 1999

Tel-Tec Security Systems, Inc. - 1983 Thomas-Cattani, Inc. - 2024

United Staffing Associates - Bakersfield, CA - 2020

Westec - 2011

Young Wooldridge, LLP - 1993

Member News

Join Make-A-Wish CVS us on March 14, 2026, at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village for an unforgettable celebration that brings our community together to support Make-A-Wish Central Coast & Southern Central Valley. With more than 300 guests, the night will feature inspiring wish stories, gourmet dining, entertainment, exciting silent and live auctions, and a few surprises! — all in support of critically ill children and their families.

• With 213 children eagerly waiting for the power of a wish, your partnership has never been more important!

• Together, we can celebrate the extraordinary power of community—and create hope that lasts.

• Sponsorships and Tickets can be purchased at bigwish26.givesmart.com. For more information, please contact info@cvs.wish.org or 805-676-9474.

Kern County SHRM Lunch & Learn: Using AI to Transform Your HR Strategy and Drive IMPACT

AI is no longer optional in HR—it is a strategic differentiator. Join Kern County SHRM on April 1, 2026, from 12:00 – 1:00 PM for a high-impact Lunch & Learn designed to help HR professionals and business owners move from transactional support to transformational leadership.

This results-focused session delivers practical tools you can implement immediately to elevate HR’s influence and drive measurable business outcomes.

Eagle Mountain Casino is the place to win every day of the week this March! From exciting promotions and live entertainment to themed giveaways and watch parties, there’s something happening all month long. Guests can enjoy favorites like Margarita Mondays, Senior Day 50+, The Check Game drawings, Lucky Shot Arena, March Money Madness drawings, and special live performances throughout the month. Don’t miss their March Madness watch parties and weekly entertainment at Switchback Lounge! View the full March calendar and plan your next visit here

The Independent Living Center of Kern County accepts donations of new and gently used durable medical equipment such as walkers, rollators, canes, wheelchairs, power wheelchairs and scooters. These items are fixed and donated to individuals who need them. To donate, please call 661-3251063.

Global Family & the Daughter Project is the only local organization providing 24/7 wraparound care for girls ages 12–17 who have survived commercial sexual exploitation. Their work restores hope, protects vulnerable children, and helps prevent future trafficking in our community. The 'Best of Bakersfield' Gala is your chance to stand with them.

Join them on Saturday, April 18, 2026, for a powerful night with a purpose. Reserve your table or tickets today at www. globalfamily.care/best-of-bakersfield or by emailing gala@ globalfamily.org and be part of a community committed to giving every child the chance to heal, grow, and thrive.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday, March 3

Ribbon Cutting

• 11 a.m. | Bakersfield Medical Ribbon Cutting

Tuesday, March 3

Government Review Council

• Noon | Greater Bakersfield Chamber

Thursday, March 5

Castle & Cooke Mixer

• 5:30 p.m. | Highgate at Seven Oaks

Thursday, March 19

Government Review Council

• 8 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber

Tuesday, March 31

Government Review Council

• Noon | Greater Bakersfield Chamber

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

Treasurer

Lisa Carbajal, Cen Cal Business Finance Group

Vice Chair, Public Policy & Political Action

Willie Rivera, Berry Corporation

Vice Chair, Economic Vitality

Octavio Escobedo III, Tejon Indian Tribe

Vice Chair, Leadership & Workforce

Development

Molly Busaca, Secure Systems

Vice Chair, Member Engagement

Veronika Placencia, KERO TV-23

General Council

Mark Bateman, Young Wooldridge LLP

Anibal Araya, CRC

Lindsay Barnes, KGET TV-17

Angela Barton, Barton Marketing Group

Patrick Beck, Bakersfield Hyundai

Nik Boone, Ascend Real Estate

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

CHAMBER STAFF

Janelle Capra

President & CEO

Joel Paramo

Senior Director of Strategic Communications

Savanah Adams

Director of Community & Member Engagement

Lorrie Guinn-Magers

Director of Operations & HR

Kimberly Price

Community Events Manager

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.

Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center (CBCC) provides cancer patients and their families with a variery of services and resources, connecting them with non-profit organizations that can help in their time of need. Their patients are among the first in the nation to access promising new treatments through their partnerships with UCLA and Dignity Health. With their expert physicians and commitment to care, CBCC is dedicated to "outsmarting cancer."

Learn more at cbccusa.com.