Correspondent: Erin Estelle 
Invocation: Jacob Frost 
Flag Salute: Jorge Barrientos 
Song: “God Bless America” led by Jeff Gutierrez 
Greeter: Jerene Bautista 
Roving Mics: Pat Collins

SPOKE Corespondent:

Erin Estelle serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Valley Strong Credit Union, where she has led marketing strategy, product, digital, brand growth and community engagement for the past five years. Passionate about creating meaningful impact, Erin is deeply committed to strengthening the communities Valley Strong serves across Kern, Tulare, San Joaquin, and Solano counties.

Beyond her professional role, Erin serves as Board Secretary for CASA of Kern County, supporting advocacy efforts that help provide a voice for children in foster care.

Outside of work and volunteer leadership, Erin is a proud mother to her two children, Leila (12) and Charlie (10). She enjoys traveling and exploring exceptional food and wine experiences, always appreciating opportunities to discover new places, cultures, and memorable moments with family and friends.

GUESTS:

Matthew Romero (Juan Bustamante)
Nichole Parra and Alan Alvarez (Kenny Spratt) 
Tunde Deru (Jason Cater) 
Ramon Sanchez (Ivan Carrasco)

GOOD NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Nick Boone has been nominated for Businessperson of the Year by the Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce for their Beautiful Bakersfield Awards. 

Jorge Barrientos echoed all of our sentiments that we are relieved and grateful that no hostages were physically harmed in Tuesdays hostage situation at the downtown Chase building.
 

Pete Pankey complimented the Kern County Museum on hosting a wonderful event last week. 
Mike McCoy shared that the Kern County Museum has Summer Memberships available for $125. This membership grants access to hundreds of museums across the country. 
 

Clinton Trimmer reminded us that national donut day is on Friday, June 5th, and the Salvation Army will be selling boxes of one dozen donuts for $25. All proceeds will go to the Salvation Army to help them continue their work in the community.

PROGRAM

Richard Chapman, President and CEO of Kern Economic Development Corporation gave us some exciting updated on new developments taking place in Kern. He shared an optimistic outlook on Kern County’s economic momentum and long-term opportunities.

Chapman highlighted KEDC’s mission of bringing together business, education, and government to attract investment, support job creation, and promote Kern County’s strengths both locally and nationally. He emphasized that economic development extends beyond recruitment efforts—it includes helping residents understand and champion the region’s unique advantages.

The presentation showcased Kern County’s leadership across multiple industries, including energy, agriculture, aerospace, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. Chapman noted that Kern remains a national leader in energy production and agricultural output while also emerging as one of the fastest-growing mid-sized job markets in the country.

We heard updates on major projects and investments shaping the region’s future, including advanced manufacturing in Mojave, continued growth in aerospace and testing operations in East Kern, expansion of renewable and battery energy infrastructure, food processing investments, and the ongoing economic impact of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.
Chapman emphasized that Kern County’s strategic location, strong workforce, competitive operating environment, and willingness to support responsible growth continue to attract employers and investment. He also highlighted improvements in regional air quality and encouraged community leaders to play an active role in telling Kern County’s story.

The presentation closed with a message of optimism: Kern County’s future is being built through innovation, collaboration, and a continued commitment to creating opportunity across the region. To learn more about these exciting new developments, visit  KEDC.