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Hispanic Chamber to honor local businesses

Once again, the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will honor local businesses that have made their mark in the community.

Along with the induction of this year’s new board officers, businesses and individuals will be honored in seven categories ranging from Large Business of the Year to Business Man and Business Woman of the Year at the annual installation dinner.

The 2006 Annual Hispanic Chamber Installation Dinner will be held 6 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Petroleum Club, 5060 California Ave.

“This event is about giving recognition to local businesses,” said Lou Gomez, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber.

Gomez was scheduled to retire Dec. 31, but decided to stay until the end of 2006.

“The main reason that I decided to stay is because I am excited about the new board,” he said. “I just feel that we have a lot to accomplish this year and wanted to
be part of it.”

The event is themed “Laying the Foundation for Growth.”

The chamber plans on staying true to that theme through a series of monthly articles and workshops this year.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Gene Voiland, president and CEO of Aera Energy LLC.

This year’s awardees were selected by the nomination committee, Gomez said.
At the installation dinner, six new board members will also be appointed.

Cost to attend the event is $60 per person. For more information, call the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at 633-5495.

New board member: Risto Rubio, South Kern Cemetery District Manager

“I think my plans for this year are to open the doors for new businesses and get the word out and let them know we are here and want to help,” he said. “I also think it is important that people know there are a lot of avenues to open up a business, and the chamber is willing to give people the opportunity to reach the American Dream.”
Rubio said he decided to join the chamber because he wanted to help continue the work the chamber has been doing.
“The chamber is a great organization that has been leading the community for many years,” he said. “Through the chamber, we can show people that things are possible when you go for them.”

New board member, student representative: Joann Acosta, Bakersfield College student

“I decided to say yes to the board because I knew that through it, many students could have more opportunities to network with outside businesses,” she said. “I hope to help students, not just business majors, but anyone get their foot out there.”

Business Awards

Business Woman of the Year
• Karen Atriano, owner of Suzette’s Cleaners

Business Man of the Year
• Richard Rios, mortgage lender at All Kern Financial

Small Business of the Year
• iKnowTechnology, owner Fernando Aguirre


Large Business of the Year
• Mercado Nuevo, publishing home of MÁS magazine, Bakotopia.com and Northwest Voice.

Corporation of the Year
• Advance Beverage

President’s Award
• Jesus Giovannetti, GIO Consulting

Outgoing Chairperson
• Elva Lopez

2006 Executive Officers:
Frank Dominguez, Chair of the Board
Jan Bans, Chair-elect
Richard Rios, Vice-Chair
Cecelia Sebesta, Secretary
Jesse Bonales, Treasurer
Elva Lopez, Past Chair

Incoming board members:
Risto Rubio
Hilary Whitcomb
Maria Chavira
Dennis Brown
Joann Acosta
Rebecca Rivera