Rancho Mesa Employees Expand Their Estate Planning Knowledge Through Personal Development Initiative

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications & Client Services Specialist, Rancho Mesa Insurance, Inc.

A group of eager Rancho Mesa employees gathered in the company’s Santee office on Wednesday, July 27, 2022 as part of the company’s effort to provide not only professional development, but also personal development education to its team members.

Dave Garcia, Rancho Mesa’s President and CEO, had invited attorney Stephanie Downer from Buchalter to educate Rancho Mesa’s team on estate planning.

Pictured Stephanie Downer and Dave Garcia.

“We strongly believe that we should provide a platform for our team members to grow in their personal development outside of their professional development at Rancho Mesa,” said Garcia. “We want them to know we care about them as individuals not just Rancho Mesa employees.”

The presentation focused on the importance of estate planning, who should consider estate planning, and the goals of an estate plan. 

Downer went into detail about revocable trusts, wills, durable power of attorney for financial management, advance health care directives, and HIPAA authorization.

By the end of the presentation, the audience had a better understanding of the purpose of each document and how they work together to create an estate plan.

“I’ve been meaning to learn more about trusts,” said Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services Manager with Rancho Mesa. “So, I’m grateful that Rancho Mesa took the time to offer this class to us. I feel like we are now equipped to make informed financial decisions for our families.”   

“We want these trainings to become a part of our cultural fabric so we plan on holding them on a quarterly basis,” Garcia explained.

Employee Spotlight: Sam Brown Coaches Team to Incredible Little League Championship Win

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Sam Brown pictured with son Sammy Brown holding the Poway City Championship Trophy.

Earlier this month, the Poway Little League city baseball championships returned to the field after a three-year hiatus.

Yankees head coach and Vice President of the Human Services Group with Rancho Mesa Sam Brown led the Poway American Little League’s Majors team to the incredible win.

Twelve-year old Yankee’s pitcher Tristan Wolfe threw a perfect game with no runners reaching first base.

“The Yankees recorded nine hits, got six walks and took advantage of five errors by the Braves, who opened the regular season losing their first seven games before fighting their way into the finals,” Terry Monahan recounts the game in a San Diego Union Tribune article.

Evoking the mercy rule, the game was halted after five innings, leaving the 10-0 victory to the Yankees.

“I'm so proud of our players' hard work and strong camaraderie,” Coach Brown said. “Their improvement on the field and in the dugout still astonishes me. A team can achieve really great things when individuals support one another and work hard. Great life lessons learned on the field!"

Rancho Mesa is proud of Sam Brown’s volunteerism within the community and fortunate to have him on its leadership team.

Employee Spotlight: Alyssa Burley Joins NAWIC Board of Directors

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications & Client Services Specialist, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

On Tuesday, June 14, 2022, Alyssa Burley was elected to one of six director positions on the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) San Diego chapter Board of Directors for the 2022-2023 term.

Since joining NAWIC in 2017, Alyssa has been a dedicated member, spending countless hours serving as the Newsletter Editor, Golf Committee Member, WIC Week Committee Member, and Professional Development & Education Committee Chair. Last year, she was proudly presented with the NAWIC Member of the Year Award for her ability to take on multiple leadership roles within the organization, all while being a leader for her department within Rancho Mesa.

"I am so excited to be on the NAWIC San Diego Board of Directors and look forward to supporting the chapter this coming year," says Alyssa.

Alyssa is not the only Rancho Mesa employee that is part of the NAWIC San Diego Chapter. Account Executive Amber Webb is heavily involved in NAWIC, serving on the board of directors for the past four years and chapter President from 2020-2021. Rancho Mesa’s Surety Relationship Executive Anne Wright has also been a long-time NAWIC San Diego Chapter member.

Rancho Mesa is proud to support its leaders within the community and women in construction!

Sentry® and Rancho Mesa Build Relationships Through Golf

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Personal relationships often mean the difference between earning the client’s business or losing out on a deal. That’s why many organizations use golf as a backdrop to develop personal relationships with those in which they choose to do business.

“Personal relationships are the cornerstone of success,” according to Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc. President Dave Garcia in a recent article distributed within the Sentry® insurance company’s intranet.

Sentry’s article outlines reasons why the company uses golf to connect with their prospects, customers and partners.

“We’ve learned that golf—whether playing a round or attending a top-tier event—provides the perfect backdrop for business conversations and helps us get to know our customers in a way we couldn’t in an office,” the article explains.

Greg and Dave Garcia pictured at 2021 U.S. Open.

Rancho Mesa’s father and son duo Dave Garcia and Account Executive Greg Garcia were invited by Sentry to the 2021 U.S. Open at Torrey Pine in San Diego. They spent the day building upon their relationships with the carrier.

“In my view, Sentry not only understands [relationships], but lives [relationships]. We see that day-to-day with our business interactions. Then, at an event like the U.S. Open we get the opportunity to meet the executive team and see that this is a belief not just talked about but held in esteem from the top down,” Dave said.

Events like these provide “the chance to meet with the decision makers of those we serve,” Scott Miller, President of National Accounts with Sentry was quoted in the article.

Both Rancho Mesa and Sentry understand the importance of building long-lasting partnerships that are based on relationships with people.

Whether you’re playing a round or spectating, golf provides a relaxed venue to get to know people, their personalities and the organization.

Rancho Mesa Honored at NAWIC Anniversary Celebration

Author, Megan Lockhart, Media Communications and Client Services Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s Amber Webb and Alyssa Burley pictured holding their NAWIC award plaques.

Information provided by NAWIC.

Rancho Mesa and its employees were honored to be presented three awards at the NAWIC San Diego 64th Annual Anniversary and Executive Night, on Tuesday, April 12.

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) San Diego Chapter held its annual anniversary night celebration. Rancho Mesa was named the Company of the Year for “contributions to advancing the education and careers of women in construction.”

“We are so honored to be recognized as the Company of the Year by NAWIC, it’s an outstanding organization that’s dedicated to the career growth and development for women in construction. We are very proud to be a part of their efforts,” Rancho Mesa President, Dave Garcia said.

Account Executive Amber Webb was presented with the President’s Award for her strong leadership and dedication to the organization.

“I feel honored to be given the 1st NAWIC San Diego Chapter President’s Award. When I went to my first NAWIC meeting back in 2015, I knew this group of women was special and that I wanted to be part of it,” Webb said. “I want to thank Madam President, Shelby Ballow, for this recognition, her friendship, and all her hard work getting our chapter back up and running after all that we have been through.”

Media Communications and Client Services Manager Alyssa Burley also took home the 5-year membership award during the award ceremony. Attendees enjoyed dinner, scholarship winner announcements, and a presentation regarding the Terminal 1 redesign of the San Diego Airport by keynote speaker, Robert Bolton.

Rancho Mesa and its employees are passionate about supporting the career opportunities for women in construction, and we are proud that our employees can make a difference through this organization.

“I want to help encourage as many women as possible to see their potential in this male dominated industry,” Webb said. “Over the years, I have learned so much from all the people I have had the pleasure of meeting through NAWIC and feel so fortunate to be able to give back to the community.

About NAWIC
NAWIC has over 115 chapters throughout the United States that provide its members with opportunities for professional development, education, networking, leadership training, public service and more. NAWIC continues the vision of its founding members by advocating for the value and impact of women builders, professionals and tradeswomen in all aspects of the construction industry. To learn more, visit www.nawic.org.

Uniting the Team: Rancho Mesa Announces Move to New Office

Author, Megan Lockhart, Media Communications and Client Services Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

On Thursday, March 10th, the Rancho Mesa team gathered at the La Mesa Brigantine Seafood Restaurant to hear President Dave Garcia announce the company’s plan to move to a new office, located in Mission Valley.

Excitement flooded the room amid the appetizers and cocktails as Garcia outlined the long-awaited reuniting of the two offices into one space in April 2023.

“When I made the announcement I was blown away with the excitement I saw and felt from the group,” Garcia said. “They all have missed being together and can’t wait for next February when this becomes a reality.”

The presentation showed a video created by Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Alyssa Burley, which outlined the new features of the larger floor plan, one being the expansion of our safety and risk management network, StudioOne™. 

“I’m excited for the new office. We’re completely reimagining our StudioOne™ by incorporating new technology and improving its functionality. I can’t wait to see what the Media Communications and Client Services Group will accomplish in this new space,” Burley said.

The building includes a gym, outdoor seating area, and a rustic industrial interior. The location is also within walking distance of the Snapdragon Stadium, aka Aztec’s Stadium, where Rancho Mesa plans to hold meetings with clients in its box suit. 

The move marks an important goal achieved since 2019 when the team was divided into two offices. Garcia has worked hard since then to make the transition back into one office a reality.  

“I couldn’t be more excited to have everyone back together. This will not only enhance our abilities to serve our clients and their needs but allows our team to interact and grow on a daily basis,” Garcia said.

The presentation also featured words from Vice President Sam Clayton, and Account Manager Christina Haake who praised the work environment and employee opportunities Rancho Mesa offers.

“I was honored that he picked me to speak about the career opportunities that are offered here.  It's really incredible to see how much we’ve grown over the years, especially up to this point now that we're moving to such a bigger space,” Haake said. 

Rancho Mesa is thrilled to make this long anticipated announcement and looks forward to how it will benefit the company’s success as well as the clients we serve.

“Probably a little contrary to the current business climate as to the need for office space, we’ve taken the opposite position and are adding several thousand square feet to what we have now in two offices,” Garcia said.  “Everyone here believes very strongly that we will continue to grow at 15% a year and I for one am not about to doubt this amazing team and their abilities to make this happen.”

IIAB San Diego Hosts Celebrity Waiters Holiday Party for Charity

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

For 31 years, the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of San Diego (IIAB San Diego) have hosted its Annual Celebrity Waiters Holiday Party for Charity. 

Industry leaders gathered on Friday, December 3, 2021 at the Bahia Resort Hotel on San Diego’s Mission Bay to raise funds for the Burn Institute and Healing Wave Aquatics.  Toys and canned foods were also collected for the El Nido Transitional Housing Program at Interfaith Shelter Network.

Rancho Mesa Vice Presidents Sam Clayton and Sam Brown along with Account Executives Kevin Howard and Amber Webb, Associate Account Executive Jack Marrs, Account Managers Christina Haake, John Parker, and Megan Smidt, with Account Coordinator Rachel Bristol celebrated the holidays and the spirit of giving while supporting the IIAB‘s efforts to raise awareness and much needed funds for local charities.

Sam Clayton, the outgoing IIAB San Diego President, introduced the incoming Board of Directors at the annual event. While his term nears its conclusion, it’s not the end to Rancho Mesa’s support of the philanthropic endeavors of the organization.

Rancho Mesa is proud to be a member of the IIAB San Diego.

IIAB Celebrates Another Successful I-Day

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s staff celebrated with Sam Clayton, the company’s Vice President of the Construction Group and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of San Diego (IIAB) President, at the annual Greater San Diego Insurance Day (I-DAY) on October 27, 2021.

I-DAY is known within the insurance industry as the largest one-day trade fair and seminar in California. The event hosted insurance companies, their agents, carriers, vendors, sponsors and others who support the industry.

The highlight of the event was the luncheon.

“It's hard to believe that we're finally here,” Sam began his address to a ballroom of industry leaders. “Our last I-DAY was almost two and a half years ago in April 2019. I just want to say thanks for being here and your support over the last 18 months. Without all of you in this room, there is no association.”

He acknowledged the efforts of past association presidents, current committee chairs and directors while adapting to the challenges brought on by the pandemic.

Despite pandemic restrictions, he mentioned the good that came from the last year.  

“We were able to raise over $7,000 for the Burn Institute,” Sam praised the membership for their efforts. “We were able to raise $5,000 for the San Diego Foundation's COVID 19 Response Fund.”

Guest speaker, MLB Studio analyst, and former outfielder/first baseman Mark Sweeney closed the luncheon with an inspirational talk about how certain people can change their lives.

The day was a success as Rancho Mesa staff was able to visit with long-time industry partners in the exhibit hall while learning about new players in the insurance space.

Rancho Mesa’s Alyssa Burley Named NAWIC Member of the Year

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications and Client Services Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Alyssa Burley, Media Communications & Client Services Manager, has been with Rancho Mesa for nearly 5 years; stepping above and beyond not only in her role at Rancho Mesa, but as an active member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).

Recently, the NAWIC San Diego Chapter presented Alyssa with the Member of the Year Award!

Having been a NAWIC member since 2017, Alyssa has held titles of numerous leadership roles. Currently, Alyssa serves as Professional Development & Education Committee Chairperson; organizing speakers for monthly meetings, creating slide presentations, and running virtual chapter meetings. Burley is also the Newsletter Committee Chairperson. For monthly newsletters, she curates industry and chapter articles, event information, birthdays and anniversaries, and anything else that might be of interest to members. On top of this, she is also a member of the Teller Committee which manages the Officer and Board of Directors election process. Alyssa has also participated on the committee for the yearly Women in Construction Week (WIC Week).

“Alyssa has a natural gift to bring out the best in everyone around her, and always finds a way to make the projects she takes on exceed all expectations. She is truly OneofOne,” says Dave Garcia, President of Rancho Mesa.

Rancho Mesa is proud to have OneofOne® employee, Alyssa Burley, a part of our team!

About NAWIC San Diego Chapter
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) San Diego Chapter, chartered on April 30, 1959, is very active and involved in the construction industry and the community. For over 65 years they have been providing education, professional development, networking and more to their members. Learn more at www.nawicsd.org.

Give New Life to a Stale Employee Handbook

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications Manager and Client Services Manager

The employee handbook may seem like a stale document; created years ago that rarely is read. However, that is a misconception. An employee handbook is meant to be  a living document that communicates an employer’s expectations to employees. It can illustrate the company culture. Whether it spells out a dress code or a telecommuting policy, the employee handbook also includes information that is required by state and federal law. So, it’s imperative for employers to make sure their employee handbooks are up to date and compliant.

The employee handbook is an essential tool, used not only to outline policies, but as a way to solidify company culture. According to a 2019 TalentLMS study, 61 percent of new hires are not trained on company culture. So, if your company is obsessed with safety, the employee handbook should reflect an emphasis on safety policies. If your company values a work/life balance for its employees, make sure to include the policies that support your philosophy.  Glassdoor found that 87 percent of employees want their employer to support a healthy balance between work responsibilities and personal commitments. 

So, in order to assist employers in developing and maintaining state and federal-compliant employee handbooks, in 2019, Rancho Mesa launched its RM365 HRAdvantage™ Portal (HR portal). It’s designed to be a one-stop shop for human resources advice and guidance to assist businesses in effectively managing their HR responsibilities.

The Living Employee Handbook builder in the HR portal allows employers to quickly develop state and federally-compliant employee handbooks while allowing for customized policies that are specific to individual companies.

In a recent usage report, Rancho Mesa found that over forty clients had already created at least one new employee handbook in the HR portal. These employers decided to generate a new employee handbook, to take advantage of the automated federal and state law update notifications; thus, their employee handbooks are now living documents that continue to evolve as regulations change. With a click of the “Approve” button, their employee handbook verbiage updates to stay in compliance.   

Before incurring the cost of hiring an attorney or HR firm, try using the Living Employee Handbook builder to generate your state-specific federally-compliant employee handbook. If your old employee handbook hasn’t been updated within the last twelve months, it’s time to generate a new Living Employee Handbook. 

To learn how to generate a living employee handbook through Rancho Mesa’s RM365 HRAdvantage™ Portal, register for our webinar.