2025 FEBRUARY Newsletter

Latest Updates from the North of the River Chamber of Commerce

The North of the River Chamber of Commerce is organized to advance the general welfare and prosperity of the North of the River citizens and business community.

A Letter From Our President

Welcome Back NOR Chamber Members and Supporters,

And after a long absence as we regrouped and rebranded, I’m thrilled to introduce our new and improved e-news! This refreshed format will keep you updated on upcoming events, community news, member highlights, and more in one convenient place.

As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible strides we’ve made together over the past year and look ahead to the exciting opportunities.

2024 was truly a remarkable year for the North of the River Chamber of Commerce.

Together, we:

Engaged with our community through an Active Ambassador Committee that showed up and supported countless events.
Launched our Lunch & Grow Workshop Series, providing invaluable business development seminars that empower our members to thrive.
Hosted a highly successful Holly Jolly Jackpot, bringing the community together for a festive kickoff to the holiday season.
Welcomed ever-growing membership, adding more voices and talents to our NOR family.
Saw record attendance at our luncheons and workshops, making every event a dynamic space for learning, networking, and growth.
Enhanced our digital presence, increasing visibility for both our Chamber and our members.
The year began with a fresh, rebranded logo, symbolizing the energy and vision driving our Chamber forward.

Please stay tuned and stay connected as we continue to grow together. And there’s still so much more to come!

We are thrilled to announce the return of our annual Tee Off for Education Golf Tournament on Friday, May 2, at the beautiful Sundale Country Club. This fun-filled day on the greens benefits all high schools in the North Bakersfield area—truly the best investment you can make for our future leaders. Mark your calendars now and join us for this amazing cause!

Following the golf tournament, we’ll shift our focus to celebrating our members at the Installation and Community Awards Luncheon in June. This is our chance to recognize the incredible individuals and businesses that make our community so special. Visit our

website to view the membership directory and submit your nominations—we’d love to hear from you!

We’re also proud to announce a new partnership with Aurora Payment Systems, offering exclusive benefits for our members. This collaboration underscores our commitment to supporting your business success in every way we can.

The year has barely begun, and we’re more ready than ever to help you and your business thrive. If you’re not yet a member of this small but mighty Chamber, what are you waiting for? Join the NOR family now—we’d love to have you!

Let’s make 2025 a year to remember.

With excitement and gratitude,

Alfred Valenzuela, President

UPCOMING EVENTS

IN THIS ISSUE

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
2025 GOLF TOURNAMENT
REFRESHED CHAMBER LOOK
MEMBER OPPORTUNITIES
SPOTTED IN THE COMMUNITY

Upcoming Chamber Events

EDGE Luncheon Eat. Drink. Greet. Engage.

Thursday, February 13 @ 11:30am Hodel's Country Dining $25 Members | $35 Non-Members

Take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to network and gain valuable insights into the Kern Economic Overview and Update from Richard Chapman, President & CEO of the Kern Economic Development Corporation.

Lunch & Grow Business Workshop Series

Thursday, February 20 @ 11:30am University of La Verne $25 Members | $35 Non-Members Learn how to define your goals, overcome obstacles, and create a clear action plan in "Goal Achievement Using a 'GPS'" with Eric Merz of Vertua Business Coaching.

Save the Date for the 2025 NOR Golf Tournament!

Tee off for education! All proceeds benefit the NOR Education Community Fund Scholarship Program for high school students in North Bakersfield.

$150 per player | $500 per team | Sponsorships Available

Learn More & Register

A Refreshed Chamber

As we grow with our community...our new look grows too.

NOR Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce a refreshed look for 2025. Highlights about the design of our new look:

Reflecting a deep connection to the community, the Chamber's full name is brought to the forefront in our new logo, emphasizing all we serve.
In our icon, hills cut across the river in red and blue, evoking a sense of pride and place, while seamlessly blending the region's natural beauty with a spirit of patriotism.
The flowing design mimics the movement of a waving American flag, symbolizing our forward momentum.

Member Opportunities

Start Saving More on Payment Processing with Aurora Payments!

NOR Chamber of Commerce is a proud partner of Aurora Payments, the endorsed payment processor for all our members. As a member, you’ll enjoy a special discount upon sign-up, helping you save on payment processing while keeping more of what you earn.

With competitive rates, lower transaction costs, and improving your cash flow, Aurora's ARISE Payment Platform is designed to maximize your profits and simplify your payment experience.

Take advantage of this exclusive offer today and start saving while growing your business!

Schedule a Meetingwith a Dedicated Account Manager to Get Started