June: Leadership Visalia

Leadership Team Explores Quality of Life Through Community, Connection, and Self-Investment in Visalia

By BriAnne Alverado, Trilogy Personnel & Land Management & Jose Saenz, Tulare County Resource Management Agency

The Leadership Team kicked off the final day’s session at none other than 1852 — a meaningful choice, as it marks the very spot where the team first came together. After reconnecting at this symbolic location, they enjoyed a pleasant walk over to Valley Strong Stadium, home to the Visalia Rawhide!

Upon arriving at the stadium, the team enjoyed a light breakfast before setting off on a personalized guided tour of Rawhide Stadium, led by General Manager Julian Rifkind. Throughout the tour, the team learned fascinating facts about the stadium’s history and had the opportunity to ask questions along the way. It was a beautiful morning — perfect for exploring the ballpark and taking in a unique piece of Visalia’s rich history.

After returning to the clubhouse, the Leadership Team was welcomed by Financial Advisor Davy Vartanian of Central Valley Strategic Wealth Management & Insurance Services. Davy provided valuable insights into key areas of financial planning, including goal-based planning, risk management, investment strategies, estate planning, and 401(k) investments. Drawing from his expertise, he helped the team understand what effective planning looks like and emphasized the long-term benefits of investing in ourselves and our families today.

After lunch, the Leadership Team engaged in a meaningful life satisfaction survey, offering everyone a chance to reflect on and share personal efforts to improve quality of life. This introspective session set the tone for the afternoon discussions focused on personal and professional well-being.

The Day Session continued with a compelling panel on “Work-Life Balance,” featuring Monique Mello, Visalia Branch Manager and licensed Senior Civil Engineer with QK Inc., and Patrick Lozano, Founder and CEO of Echelon Security Group, Inc. Key takeaways included strategies for preventing burnout, using calendars and delegation to maintain balance, and Patrick’s strong message that passions must be authentic — “Has to be a passion” — and to “Free Yourself.”

The second panel, centered on “Community Insights,” featured Sam Sigal, President and Co-Owner of the Visalia Rawhide, and Jeremy Schultz, Founder and CEO of Soccer City 1852 Visalia. They shared how both organizations collaborate with nonprofits to give back. Sam emphasized that Rawhide games are about the full experience, beyond wins or losses.

As citizens of Visalia, we are grateful for the Rawhide and 1852 Visalia — two local treasures that provide joy, connection, and a refreshing escape from daily stress.