Christmas Memories and Gratitude

Growing up in Pauma Valley, the Christmas season was always a special time of year. From the smell of the real pine tree and decorations to the presents that appeared under it, I was struck by the energy and spirit of this magical season. Looking back on it now, I am so grateful to my …

Remembering Phil Orland: A Life Dedicated To Service

Knowing Phil Orland was one of those experiences in life where you meet someone who has a positive impact on your future. He would always be cheerful and full with words from wisdom, leading up until his passing this year at age 75! It’s because he gave honest feedback when I felt discouraged that helped …

Stop Impressing Others and Start Impressing Yourself

You could be forgiven for thinking that integrity is something you only need to worry about when other people are around. But the truth is, your integrity is just as important when you’re alone. After all, who are you really trying to impress with your actions? Other people, or yourself? If you’re only trying to …

Thanksgiving Is A Time To Give Thanks For All The People Who Have Helped Us Grow

Happy Thanksgiving Day! It’s a special day like today that I hope for all people that they have a wonderful day full of love, laughter, and good food. This is certainly a time to be thankful for all that we have in our lives. But it’s also a time to celebrate who we are and …

Remembering Verne Maynard, An American Hero

On November 11, 2022, Veteran’s Day was observed in the U.S., honoring all those brave women and men who have served our country. We are grateful for their dedication and sacrifice, and we honor their commitment to protecting our freedoms. We salute you, Veterans, for your bravery and courage in the face of danger. You …

Stay Motivated When Others Try To Bring You Down

In 1989, I was elated when I received the American Legion Award at my 8th grade graduation at Pauma School. It was a great honor to be recognized for my academic achievements, especially after spending the year before recovering from scoliosis surgery, and despite that it would be a decade before I would be sworn …

Self-Advocacy: Why Head Down,Working Hard Is Not Enough

As an immigrant child, I remember seeing my parents working long hours and striving for the American dream. They sacrificed so much to give me and my siblings opportunities that we never would have had in México. They would say, “in this country, give it all that you have, and you will be rewarded.” Later …

A Support Network is Essential for Success in Life

It’s been a little over a year since being appointed as President & CEO of the Employees Club of California and I have been reflecting on the journey that arrived to this point in my life. I cannot help but think of the all the people that supported me along the way. In my experience, …

From a Mexican Immigrant to an American CEO

I’m an immigrant person born in Pihuamo, México then raised on an avocado and citrus farming community in San Diego County. My parents risked everything to give me a better life. As a one-year-old, they carried me in their arms across the treacherous Mexican border into America, where new challenges waited for me the next …

Give It All That You Have, And You Will Be Rewarded

As an immigrant child, I remember seeing my parents working long hours and striving for the American dream. They sacrificed so much to give me and my siblings opportunities that we never would have had in México. They would say, “In this country, give it all that you have, and you will be rewarded.” Later …