GAMES BEGIN
ere's nothing like a little friendly competition to keep your mind sharp and your body in tune. And at Highgate Regents, Bakers eld's premier gated, master planned, active adult community, you'll have lots of new friends to compete with. Whether it's a lively game of pickleball, a refreshing dip in the pool, a relaxing evening grilling steaks on the Regency Club patio, or a special event organized by a community group or our social director, there's always something interesting to do in Highgate Regents.
When you're ready to start enjoying life more, come to Highgate Regents, where there's more life to enjoy.
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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.
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© Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited.
Deanna Blaise and Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr. at the Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon.
Photo by Lettratto
Message from the CEO
A Strong Start to 2026: Leadership, Advocacy, and Momentum at the Chamber
Dear Chamber Members,
As we step into 2026, January has already set a strong tone for the year ahead at the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, one defined by leadership, engagement, and momentum. And it’s been energizing to see our members so actively involved.
We began the year with our Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon, where we proudly welcomed Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr., President of California State University, Bakersfield, as our 2026 Chairman of the Board of Directors. We look forward to serving under Dr. Harper’s leadership as we continue advancing the interests of our business community. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Past Chairwoman Deanna Blaise for her dedication, insight, and steady guidance throughout 2025.
The luncheon also gave us the opportunity to recognize individuals whose leadership and commitment strengthened the Chamber and our broader business community. These moments of celebration would not be possible without the support of our generous sponsors: Dignity Health – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals, Valley Strong Credit Union, Providence Strategic Consulting, Grimmway Produce Group, and Ripple Fiber. You can read the full event recap here.
January also marked the launch of the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2026. The kick-off luncheon welcomed 30 participants who connected with their project teams, met fellow classmates, and heard from an inspiring lineup of community leaders. The energy and enthusiasm in the room made it clear this class is ready to lead with purpose.
We were also pleased to introduce Christina Springstead as the 2026 Leadership Bakersfield Outsourced Program Director. Her connection to the program uniquely positions her to guide this year’s cohort. Learn more about the Class of 2026 here.
On the advocacy front, we convened Government Review Council (GRC) meetings and welcomed Justin Salters, Founder of Hey Salty, Inc., who has been selected as our 2026 GRC Chair. Justin brings
extensive experience in entitlement, permitting, and stakeholder engagement, helping developers and operating companies navigate complex processes such as CEQA and NEPA through effective public outreach. We are grateful for his leadership and thank the immediate Past Chair, Amanda Frank, for her service in 2025.
As we enter a critical election cycle, we are working to raise awareness of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber Political Action Committee (BAKPAC). BAKPAC is one of the most direct ways our members protect jobs, economic growth, and the future of our business community through nonpartisan endorsements and strategic support.
Looking ahead, we invite you to join us for our first Labor Law and HR Forum of the year on Wednesday, Feb. 11, featuring attorneys from Klein DeNatale Goldner and LeBeau Thelen, LLP. Please email the Director of Operations & HR, Lorrie Guinn-Magers, to secure your spot at lguinn@bakochamber.com. We also encourage you to submit nominations for the 2026 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards; the deadline has been extended to Friday, Feb. 13.
Thank you for helping make this a strong start to the year. I look forward to working alongside you as we continue advancing opportunities and advocacy for our region. Your leadership, partnership, and belief in the power of business truly make a difference.
Janelle Capra
President & CEO
Greater Bakersfield Chamber Blessings,
2024 2026
CATEGORIES:
A Better Bakersfield
An annual event or project that greatly improves the quality of life in Bakersfield.
Architecture & Design
The completion of an innovative new building or space, showcasing an outstanding interior or exterior design that harmonizes with its environment.
Arts & Culture
Efforts by a group or individual to enrich and elevate arts and culture within the Bakersfield community.
Urban Core
An individual, business, or coalition working to make downtown Bakersfield safer, more vibrant and economically thriving.
Educational Excellence
An Educator, project or institution advancing educational opportunities and achievement across all levels in the community.
Health & Wellness
An individual, group or organization going beyond their normal activities to promote healthy living through education, prevention or medical services.
Heart of Hospitality
Exceptional team members in lodging, food & beverage, events, travel and recreation who go above and beyond to deliver outstanding guest experiences and contribute to service excellence.
Humanitarian Individual
Humanitarian Group
A group whose dedicated volunteer work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of Bakersfield residents
Emerging Nonprofit
A nonprofit organization (1-10 years old) who made a significant impact on the community through its grassroots initiatives.
Nonprofit of the Year
Honors a nonprofit organization for its significant and lasting impact on the community.
Small Business of the Year
A small business (25 employees or fewer) whose contributions, products, or services instill pride and benefit the community.
Large Business/Corporation of the Year
A business recognized for its substantial impact through volunteer work, donations or community engagement.
Next Gen
A young individual or group (grades K-12) with exceptional citizenship and community involvement.
Young Professional
An individual (ages 18-40) whose contributions have significantly enhanced the quality of life in Bakersfield.
Business Person of the Year
A local business owner/manager whose efforts truly impact and enhance the quality of life in the community.
Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement Award
An individual whose personal volunteer efforts have significantly impacted the community. Nominations must be for work completed in 2025 to be eligible for consideration. No more than two nominations per individual, business or organization will be considered.
A local, long-time community leader, age 55 and over, who has made a lasting impact on Bakersfield and its residents.
Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026
Tym4Change wins "Emerging Nonprofit of the Year" Award
When I stood on the stage to accept the 2025 Beautiful Bakersfield Award for Emerging Nonprofit, I felt a rush of emotions that are hard to put into words. "Honored" and "humbled" are the starting points, but it goes deeper than that. For me, this award isn't just a trophy for the shelf; it is a powerful validation of the resilience and brilliance of the youth we serve every day.
Personally, this recognition feels like a full-circle moment. I have always believed that our young people aren’t just the "leaders of tomorrow"—they are the agents of change today. Seeing the city I love acknowledge that mission reinforces why we do this work, even when the hurdles seem high. Professionally, this award belongs to the students who have walked through our doors, the mentors who give their time, and the community members who have joined us in reimagining what equity looks like in Bakersfield.
Mobilizing for a Better Bakersfield
At TYM4Change, our heart beats for Southeast Bakersfield. We’ve focused our energy on being a catalyst for movement, whether it’s through our efforts to restore the legacy of MLK Park or our youth-led research that resulted in the documentary Equity Rise. We don't just talk about policy change; we equip our 16-to-24-year-olds with the data, media skills, and confidence to advocate for it themselves.
Our programs—from the Kern Equity Youth (KEY) Project to our intensive mentorship and tobacco
prevention initiatives—are designed to turn lived experience into leadership. We are showing the city that when you give a young person the tools to research food insecurity or substance use disparities in their own backyard, they don't just find problems; they find solutions.
Looking Ahead
Winning this award as an "Emerging" nonprofit tells me that Bakersfield is ready for the next chapter. It tells our students that their voices are being heard by the Chamber, by city leaders, and by their neighbors.
We are just getting started. This recognition fuels our commitment to continue inspiring students to be
unapologetic about their power. We will continue to push for a Bakersfield where every zip code has the resources it needs to thrive, led by the very youth who call those neighborhoods home.
Thank you, Bakersfield, for seeing us, believing in our youth, and joining us in this movement for change.
Jovon Dangerfield, Executive Director, TYM4Change
Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr., President, California State University, Bakersfield, inducted as 2026 Chairman of the Board
Rooted in community, driven by opportunity, and united by a shared belief in education and enterprise, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber celebrated its 106year legacy while charting a forward-looking course for the region’s business community. At its Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon, the Chamber officially inducted California State University, Bakersfield President Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr. as its 2026 Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Dr. Harper’s induction signals a continued commitment to collaboration, workforce development, and economic vitality, values that have defined the Chamber for more than a century and remain essential as Bakersfield enters a pivotal year for growth and leadership.
“For 106 years, the Chamber has existed because this community believed in itself, its people, its potential, and its power to build something better together,” said Capra. “As we honor the leaders who shaped our past, we also embrace a future defined by collaboration, innovation, and shared vision. We are energized by the leadership ahead and confident in the direction this Board will take us.”
Outgoing Chairwoman Deanna Blaise, SVP & Chief Business Officer at Valley Strong Credit Union, was honored for her leadership and service with a state resolution from Senator Shannon Grove’s office. Blaise ceremoniously passed the gavel to Dr. Harper during the formal guard change, marking a seamless transition of leadership.
The luncheon also celebrated individuals whose dedication strengthened the Chamber and the broader business community throughout the year:
• Ambassador of the Year: Priyanka Saha, Little Guide Bakersfield
• Chamber Champion: David Perkins, Greet Seven Oaks
• Community Impact: Ashley Tennant, Adventist Health
• Advocacy Partner of the Year: Suzanne Noble, Western States Petroleum Association
• Business Partner of the Year: Karen Zuber, Bank of America
Outgoing board members Rob Duchow (SoCal Gas), Ken Keller (Dignity Health, Bakersfield Memorial Hospital), and Jacob Panero (Varner Bros.) were recognized for their leadership, service, and commitment to advancing the Chamber’s mission.
Dr. Harper expressed both gratitude and resolve as he accepted the role of Board Chair.
“CSUB owes our very existence to this community’s
persistence and belief that giving our sons and daughters access to higher education is the key to progress and prosperity for all,” he said. “That spirit of unity has never been stronger, and it will guide my leadership of the Board of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce in 2026, a year that heralds tantalizing opportunities for small businesses, new enterprises, and job creation for the families of our city.”
Dr. Harper emphasized: “One major focus of my leadership – understandably – will be education. The correlation between the number of college degrees and a region’s success is undeniable. But we recognize that in order to be a source of new beginnings for the entire community, CSUB must offer more than the traditional four-year degree. In that spirit, we are launching more certification and training programs –including in the ever-expanding world of AI - for people already in the workforce who wish to become leaders in their fields.”
Capra echoed Dr. Harper’s remarks, reinforcing the Chamber’s role as a convener and catalyst for regional progress.
“Our work has always lived at the intersection of business, education, and community,” said Capra. “As we look ahead, the Chamber will continue to champion small businesses, invest in talent, and bring
stakeholders together to confront the challenges and seize the opportunities that will define Bakersfield’s future.”
The luncheon, held at Seven Oaks Country Club in southwest Bakersfield, drew approximately 300 attendees. This year's celebration was made possible with the support of our generous sponsors: Dignity Health – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals, Valley Strong Credit Union, Providence Strategic Consulting, Grimmway Produce Group, and Ripple Fiber.
The Chamber remains dedicated to driving economic expansion, supporting businesses, and enhancing the quality of life in the region. Under its new board leadership, the Chamber is poised to build a brighter future for Bakersfield’s business community.
VIEW PHOTOS
Photos courtesy of Lettratto
Welcome, Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2026!
The Greater Bakersfield Chamber is proud to announce the Leadership Bakersfield Class of 2026, marking the launch of the program’s 39th year as the region’s premier professional development and civic leadership initiative. The 10-month Leadership Bakersfield program officially began on Thursday, Jan. 8, and will conclude with a graduation ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 5. This year’s cohort includes 30 professionals representing a wide range of industries, all committed to strengthening Kern County through informed leadership, collaboration, and service.
In conjunction with the new class, the Chamber introduced Christina Springstead as the 2026 Leadership Bakersfield Outsourced Program Director.
Springstead is a Leadership Bakersfield alumna (Class of 2018) and previously served as Chair of the Class of 2023. She is the founder of Springstead Solutions, a strategic financial consulting firm that helps organizations transform financial management into a tool for sustainable growth. Her deep connection to the program, combined with her professional expertise, positions her to guide the Class of 2026 with both vision and purpose.
“Leadership Bakersfield empowers professionals to grow as leaders while making a tangible difference in our community,” said Janelle Capra, President and CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. “By fostering collaboration and deepening participants’ understanding of our region’s opportunities and
challenges, this program equips them to become champions for Bakersfield’s future.”
The program curriculum features monthly, immersive sessions focused on key sectors and community issues, including leadership development, energy, arts and culture, education, health and human services, government, law enforcement, agriculture, and more. Participants gain direct access to community leaders and industry experts, build lasting relationships, and collaborate on group projects that address real local needs.
“Serving as Outsourced Program Director is not part of my traditional consulting work, but Leadership Bakersfield has always held a special place in my heart,” said Springstead. “My history with the program, my love for this community, and my passion for developing strong, thoughtful leaders make this work deeply meaningful. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back in a way that aligns so closely with my purpose.”
Springstead will be supported by 2026 Council Chair Josh Sharp of Dignity Health, Cory Rothman, Leadership Bakersfield Advisory Council Lead, and Joel Paramo, Senior Director of Strategic Communications at the Greater Bakersfield Chamber.
Since its inception, Leadership Bakersfield has graduated nearly 1,000 alumni, many of whom now serve in leadership roles across business, government, and nonprofit sectors throughout Kern County.
Leadership Bakersfield 2026 Cohort:
• Justin Ader – California Water Service
• Vanessa Aguilar – Berry Corporation
• Alexandra Campos – Kern Medical Foundation
• Edith Cazares – Mission Bank
• Clayton Cox – California Water Service
• Anita Cruz – KCSOS
• Mike Cushman – ARRC Technology
• Kari Disque – Flood Ministries
• Vanessa Enriquez – Adventist Health
• Nayeli Franco – City of Bakersfield
• Joe Garcia – Tri Counties Bank
• Ehsan Ghanizadeh – Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
• Ross Hoffmann – Hoffmann Hospice
• Elizabeth Huerta – Links for Life
• Michelle Klawitter – A-C Electric
• Autumn Layton – Garden Pathways
• Crystal Martinez – The Open Door Network
• Andrea Medina – CSUB
• Rafael Molina – California Water Service
• Ryan Nelson – Berry Corporation
• Rachel Nettleton – Kern County Farm Bureau
• Jaritza Nunez – City of Bakersfield
• Angelica Ocampo – Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
• Sindhuja Pavuluru – Sunshine Behavioral Health
• David Perkins – Greet Seven Oaks
• Jose Rocha – Berry Corporation
• Julie Slaughter – Kern River Golf Course
• Fred Walkover – Crescendo Coaching Group, LLC
• Bryan Wooster – TopFlight MSP
• Alexander Zahn – Empire Management Group
Program Underwriter
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS UPDATE Advancing Pro-Business Policy in 2026
By Joel Paramo, Senior Director of Strategic Communications
The Greater Bakersfield Chamber is hard at work shaping policies that matter to our members. With a newly updated, board-approved Policy Platform, developed collaboratively with stakeholders and subject-matter experts, we are prepared to respond quickly to emerging issues, advocate for pro-business solutions, and ensure that the voices of our region’s business community are heard at every level of government.
Through transparent collaboration and active engagement, the Chamber remains committed to advancing policies that strengthen local businesses, promote economic confidence, and encourage inclusive civic participation. We look forward to a productive year ahead, working alongside our members on the issues that matter most to Bakersfield’s business community.
GRC Kickoff & Program Highlights
Thank you to everyone who participates in our Government Review Council (GRC) meetings. At the first meeting of the year, Rana Ghadban, VP of Small Business Advocacy at CalChamber, presented on CalChamber’s broader advocacy program and the Building an Affordable California Act (BACA)
BACA is a ballot initiative designed to provide comprehensive CEQA reform and streamline permitting approvals and litigation timelines, making environmental review faster, fairer, and evidencebased, while preserving California’s strong laws protecting the environment, public safety, and public health. Currently in the signature-gathering phase, the initiative would appear on the November 2026 ballot if successful. Following the presentation, the GRC unanimously recommended that the Chamber
adopt a SUPPORT position for BACA. Staff will update members once the Board considers this recommendation. Learn more at buildaffordableca. com
The Council also reviewed SB 310 (Weiner), which would have undermined recent PAGA reforms and created new avenues for employer liability lawsuits. Consistent with the Chamber’s Policy Platform, the GRC recommended an OPPOSE position. Members were encouraged to contact Senator Melissa Hurtado to express their concerns. On Wednesday, Jan. 29, we celebrated a major win for PAGA: SB 310 failed and did not return for a third reading on the Senate floor.
Finally, the GRC held a session to identify legislative priorities most important to Bakersfield’s business community. Nearly 50 priorities were raised, covering economic development, land use, infrastructure, public safety, and workforce support. The Chamber is actively working to prioritize these issues, ensuring our advocacy reflects members’ real concerns. By addressing these priorities at the city, county, state, and federal levels, the GRC plays a vital role in shaping policies that foster a thriving, business-friendly Bakersfield, support local job growth, and strengthen the region’s long-term economic future.
Policy & Advocacy Highlights
Energy & Resource Development
The Chamber continues to engage closely with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, ensuring that the voice of the Greater Bakersfield region is represented on critical policy issues. We emphasize the unique conditions of Kern County and the Central Valley, such as grid capacity,
water availability, and workforce development needs, while advocating for policies that support responsible growth, community benefits, and long-term economic impact.
Through this partnership, we amplify local concerns at the federal level, influencing national discussions on technology infrastructure, data centers, and industrial development, while promoting policies that balance economic opportunity with sustainable infrastructure and community resilience.
The Chamber also recently supported Kern Energy’s fuel-cell project, which generates zero-emissions electricity using hydrogen produced through refining. This initiative advances innovation, sustainability, and energy reliability for the Greater Bakersfield region.
Additionally, we joined the Western States Petroleum Association in thanking the BLM for advancing supplemental environmental reviews for oil and gas leasing in the Bakersfield Field Office. Responsible development on federal lands supports jobs, investment, housing, and infrastructure. The Chamber encourages timely action while upholding strong environmental safeguards.
What is BAKPAC?
Local Governance: Charter County Proposal
As part of the Bako Business Coalition, the Chamber voiced a conditional endorsement of Kern County’s pursuit of Charter County status. Our support was contingent on safeguards for public engagement, clearly defined processes for appointments or special elections, and strong accountability measures to maintain trust and institutional integrity. On Tuesday, Jan. 27, the Kern County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a motion to place the proposal on the June Primary Election ballot for voter consideration.
Opportunity Zones 2.0
The Chamber, in partnership with the Kern Community Foundation, launched the Opportunity Zones 2.0 Task Force to position Kern County for maximum advantage during the 2026–2036 Qualified Opportunity Zone (QOZ) cycle. Early engagement with local partners, including the County of Kern, City of Bakersfield, Kern Economic Development Corporation, and B3K Prosperity, confirms strong alignment and highlights the Chamber’s leadership role.
Protect What You’ve Built
The Chamber’s Political Action Committee, BAKPAC, continues to support candidates and initiatives that protect jobs, strengthen the local economy, and advance business interests.
BAKPAC is the Greater Bakersfield Chamber’s political action committee, established to support pro-business candidates and initiatives aligned with members’ interests. Through nonpartisan endorsements and strategic support, BAKPAC is one of the most direct ways members safeguard the future of Kern County’s business community.
Join us in protecting what you’ve built and building a stronger future for Kern County.
As the June primary approaches, BAKPAC is focused on three priorities:
1. Positioning for Success in the 2026 Election Cycle: Supporting pro-business candidates who understand the challenges of running a business in Kern County.
2. Maximizing Member Engagement and Contributions: Encouraging members to participate in shaping the Chamber’s advocacy efforts.
3. Strengthening BAKPAC’s Visibility and Trust: Highlighting the Chamber’s leadership in local and state policy discussions.
Membership contributions, even small gifts, provide a direct way to influence the local political landscape. Contributions under $99 do not require reporting, making it simple for members to support pro-business leadership.
To contribute, mail a check payable to BAKPAC or email info@ bakochamber.com with the subject line “BAKPAC.”
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.
1-800-GOT-JUNK?
217 Mount Vernon Ave
Bakersfield, CA 93307 (661) 404-1580
1800gotjunk.com
Allied Potato Inc
5500 Ming Ave #350 Bakersfield, CA 93309 (661) 837-1270 alliedpotato.com
“Specializing in the Export of Chipping Potatoes”
AltaOne FCU 6501 Ming Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (760) 428-6619 altaone.org
Antelope Valley Tire Service and Sales 17852 Sweetaire Ave Lancaster, CA 93535 (661) 727-1348
“Emergency road service”
CareGiving In Home Care
5441 Aldrin Ct Ste A Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 384-6312 caregivinginhome.care
“We deliver services to seniors and older adults in our community with dignity, respect, and compassion, and we are committed to making a meaningful difference”
Friendly Nurses Home Health Care
5300 California Ave Suite 200 Bakersfield, CA 93309 (661) 398-6939 myfriendlynurses.com
“ We offer a fast admission process, weekly visits, therapies, medical supplies & more. FULLY COVERED BY YOUR INSURANCE. Skilled Nursing Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapies.”
Gianquinto Orthodontic Arts Bakersfield 1400 Calloway Dr. Ste 206 Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 829-7970 orthoarts.com
“Bakersfield Native Certified Orthodontist and US Navy Veteran. Provider of braces and invisalign for children and adults.”
Jason VanCuren PLS 11000 Brimhall rd. E51 Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 421-3338
"Professional Land Surveying company serving Southern California since 1998."
Rescue Grounds Coffee Company
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (661) 808-4673
“We are an anti-trafficking organization that fights sex trafficking and employs sex trafficking survivors on our coffee truck and affords them the ability to earn a dignified living while empowering them to greatness”
South Valley AC & Heating LLC
200 China Grade Loop Ste D Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 332-3940 southvalleyac.com
"South Valley AC & Heating is a locally owned HVAC company committed to honest service, dependable comfort solutions, and treating every customer like family."
Stillhouse Consulting
211 Lido Isle Bakersfield, CA 93314 (661) 805-5509 stillhouseconsulting.org
“Stillhouse Consultanting offers leadership development and training focused on building self-leadership, resilience, and soft skills for individuals and organizations.”
Renewing Members
Thank you to our members who have reinvested in the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. Your continued investment helps the Chamber continue its mission to Build a Better Bakersfield.
Adaptive Networks - 2025
Advance Beverage Company - 1955
Advance Communications & Consulting, Inc. - 2001
Allied Potato Inc. - 2025
Anita M. Waits, Accountancy Corporation - 1995
Anthony Vineyards, Inc. - 1994
AppleOne Employment Services - 1992
Around the Clock Care - 2001
B&B Surplus, Inc. - 1993
Bakersfield ARC - 1997
Bakersfield Association of REALTORS - 1955
Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital - 2016
Bakersfield Cotton Warehouse, LLC - 2022
Bakersfield Electric Motor Repair, Inc. - 1967
Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center - 1994
Bakersfield Racquet Club - 1965
Barton Marketing Group - 2019
Bill Wright Toyota - 1982
BSK Associates - 1972
Buck Owens Production Company, Inc. - 1965
Bynum Inc. - 1985
California State University, Bakersfield - 1968
California Water Service - 1943
CASA of Kern County - 1996
Catholic Charities-Bakersfield Family Resource Center2007
Cen Cal Business Finance Group - 1990
Chester Avenue Brake LLC - 1925
Chicago Title Company - 1962
Clifford & Brown, P.C. - 1990
Coffee-Brimhall LLC - 2008
Colombo Construction Company, Inc. - 1978
Communication Enterprises Inc. - 1990
Continental Labor and Staffing Resources - 1997
Cook's Computer Maintenance & Engineering, Inc. - 1978
D.R. Horton - 2023
Danielle Plotner - State Farm Agency - 2021
Daniells Phillips Vaughan & Bock - 1956
Diamond Ridge Roofing, Inc. - 1994
Douglass Truck Bodies - 1958
First 5 Kern - 2001
Forefront Power, LLC - 2020
Four Points Hotel by Sheraton - 1983
G.H. Slack and Son Company /TK Pacific Inc. dba - 1999
Garden Pathways, Inc. - 2000
Gary Icardo Farms, Inc. - 1999
Gianquinto Orthodontic Arts Bakersfield - 2025
Golden Empire Transit District - 1985
Griffith Company - 1930
Hall Ambulance Service, Inc. - 1984
Hathaway LLC - 2007
Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary - 1963
Hillcrest Sheet Metal, Inc. dba Emcor Services - 1963
Houchin Community Blood Bank - 1977
Intrepid Business Resources, LLC - 2024
J.D. Rush Company, Inc. - 1994
Jason VanCuren PLS - 2025
Jess Smith & Sons Cotton, Inc. - 1958
Jim Burke Ford Lincoln - 1951
KBAK-TV 29 / KBFX-TV - 1953
Kern Citizens for Energy - 2014
Kern County Superintendent of Schools - 1989
Kern Electric Distributors - 1968
Key Properties dba Intrados Inc. - 1982
KGET-TV 17 - 1978
KMI Mechanical, Inc. - 1991
M & S Security Services, Inc. - 2011
Magdalene Hope, INC. DBA Bakersfield Women’s Center - 2024
Motor City Auto Center - 1972
Nelms Surveying, Inc. - 2010
New Gen Engineering Group, Inc. dba McIntosh
Engineerin - 1990
Newby Rubber, Inc.- 1964
Nickel Family LLC- 1994
Nighbert Group - 1972
Pacifica Senior Living - 2009
Pair & Marotta Physical Therapy - 1990
Pegboard - 1975
Price Disposal - 1997
Raymond's Trophy & Awards - 1994
Rescue Grounds Coffee Company - 2025
Rick's Recycling, Inc. - 2002
Seven Oaks Country Club - 1991
Skarphol Frank Associates - 1995
Stillhouse Consulting - 2025
Stinson's - 1953
TalentBase LLC - 2024
Talley Farms - 2023
The Bakersfield Californian - 1920
The Lynn Company - 1977
The Open Door Network - 1991
The Station - Kern County Fire Fighters - 2017
Trinity Consultants - 2000
Uniglobe Golden Empire Travel DBA Uniglobe Tvl
Partners - 1987
Urner's Appliance and TV - 1920
Valley Institute of Prosthetics and Orthotics - 2022
Valley Public Radio-KVPR/KPRX White Ash Broadcasting - 1985
Varner Bros, Inc. - 1996
Veracity Billing Solutions - 2025
Verizon Corporate Office - 2021
Walker-Lewis Rents - 1988
Wallace & Smith Contractors, Inc. - 1963
WZI Inc. - 1990
Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation - 2018
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.
Amtrak San Joaquin has officially rebranded as Amtrak Gold Runner Along with the new name and branding, Gold Runner has reintroduced a 7th daily roundtrip from Bakersfield to Sacramento, making same-day travel more convenient than ever. Riders can now arrive in Sacramento by 12:38 p.m., complete advocacy visits, and return home the same day. A media toolkit with updated logos and graphics is now available 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 661-325-1063.
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 https:// 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, Feb. 3
Government Review Council Meeting
• Noon | Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Thursday, Feb. 5
Hourglass Hotel Mixer
• 5:30 p.m. | Hourglass Hotel
Tuesday, Feb. 10
Ribbon Cutting
• 2 p.m. | Radiant Waxing Bakersfield
Wednesday, Feb. 11
Labor Law & HR Forum
• 8 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Thursday, Feb. 12
Coffee with the Chamber
• 8 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Monday, Feb. 16
Presidents Day
• Chamber closed
Friday, Feb. 20
Government Review Council
• 8 a.m. | Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Friday, Feb. 27
Chamber Masterclass with Amy Travis
• 9 a.m. | 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
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Kern Family Health Care (KFHC) provides services for physical, mental and behavioral health, with a team that is dedicated to improving the health status of their members through an integrated managed healthcare delivery system.
They believe that all people deserve high-quality care, regardless of their income. KFHC members have access to exceptional providers and health services, such as Medi-Cal. Learn more at kernfamilyhealthcare.com
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