CSDFEA Collecting New Blanket Donations for Those in Need

The County of San Diego Filipino American Employees’ Association is donating new blankets to spread warmth and comfort to Dreams for Change, an organization that is dedicated to helping people who are facing housing difficulties.

All employees can help bring warmth and comfort to people in need.

Through Nov. 25, CSDFEA is collecting Venmo donations @CSDFEA, or purchases off the CSDFEA Amazon registry.

In 2009, Dreams for Change started to serve the needs of families and individuals struggling due to the recession’s economic downturn. From offering safe parking for those living in their vehicles to providing access to case management, employment support, and financial counseling, Dreams for Change helps bring hope and dignity to countless lives.

Get to Know Your DCAO: Dahvia Lynch, LUEG

Get to know the County’s new leadership team in a series of stories highlighting some professional and personal highlights. It started with Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton. 

In the coming weeks, we’ll introduce you to the CAO’s leadership team – the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, Deputy Chief Administrative Officers and Chief Financial Officer. 

Right now, it’s Dahvia Lynch’s turn. She’s the new DCAO for the Land Use and Environment Group. Previously, she was the director for Planning and Development Services. 

What prompted you to apply for a job at the County? 

I learned about the County’s Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP) in graduate school. The MSCP was, and still is, an innovative program that balances conservation and development. I knew I had to be a part of the County’s progressive sustainability work! 

Advice to someone who wants to move ahead in their career. 

Do your best in every role and be open to opportunities you hadn’t envisioned. Let your “why” drive your career, not how or when you get there or what your role is. For me, it was to make the world a better place by helping people and the environment.

In the Clifton Strengths Assessment, what are you signature themes? 

Relator, Achiever, Discipline, Focus and Arranger. 

How do you stay organized? 

I take a lot of time planning and doing my homework outside of the office. Taking time on a Sunday and first thing Monday morning to get ready for the week makes me feel prepared.

Do you have a particular philosophy? Motto? Saying that inspires you/that you live by? 

Most people are mostly good. Control what you can control, let go of the rest. 

Transformational moments in your life? 

When my “little sisters” from Big Sister League moved in with me as teenagers. It was the most challenging and rewarding (more of the latter) experience of my life. 

Do you have any pets and what do you like about them?  

Four dogs. What don’t I like about them? I’d have 400 if I could. 

Favorite activity or hobby? 

Working out, hiking, dog beach. 

Where did you grow up? 

I’m a California native. I was born in northern California but have lived in San Diego since elementary school.   

What would people be surprised to learn about you? 

I am a vivid dreamer. I remember my dreams a lot and occasionally make personal decisions based on them. When I was younger, I moved to the Rocky Mountains after dreaming about them (and didn’t regret it)!     

I also laugh in my sleep a lot, according to my husband (he must think I’m dreaming about his jokes). 

How do you relieve stress?  

Reality TV. I know it’s wrong, but it feels so right. 

What keeps you grounded? 

Exercise. 

Favorite food or cuisine? 

Thai or Indian food- the spicier, the better! 

Favorite way to spend the weekend? 

Working out, cooking, time with friends and maybe a Netflix or Hulu binge. 

How do you juggle home and professional life?  

I don’t over-plan, which is hard for an extrovert! I am very thoughtful about how I spend my time since free time (for most of us) is limited. While I’d like to spend more time with friends and family, I’ve learned what it takes to recharge so I can do my job effectively and feel balanced. I work in “down time” and exercise as a must. 

Also read: Get to Know Your DCAO: Brian Albright, FG3

DCAO Message: Saluting Our Veterans

A message from Andrew Strong, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Public Safety Group: 

As a proud U.S. Navy corpsman, I am not alone in bringing many important lessons learned through my service to my role at the County. The County of San Diego is stronger and better in living up to the motto “The Noblest Motive is the Public Good” because of the wide breadth of experience that its workforce brings to the table. That includes the numerous fellow veterans who bring their experiences to their continued service to the public. 

To my fellow veterans: we are lucky and proud of your military services and grateful for your work serving the County of San Diego. 

Take the Warrior Hike Challenge

Conquer what is arguably the toughest trail in the county this Veterans Day weekend. Trek up El Cajon Mountain in El Capitan County Preserve during the Warrior Hike Challenge on Saturday, Nov. 9.

County Parks’ Warrior Hike Challenge launched in 2015 as a way to celebrate the athleticism and mental stamina shown by members of the armed services and that’s required to climb El Cap. It now takes place twice a year on Memorial Day and Veterans Day weekends. 

There are several levels to this “warrior” journey. Participants can choose their own adventure, navigating the length of trail that matches their individual interest and ability.

Boot Camp

Trail Difficulty Rating: Moderate

Distance: 2 miles

Recon

Trail Difficulty Rating: Moderate-Difficult

Distance: 6+ miles

Warrior

Trail Difficulty Rating: Difficult

Distance: 11+ miles

The event is free and open to all ages and dogs on leash. Parks and Recreation encourages all guests to consider the demands of the challenge, which include the trail’s steep inclines and lack of shade when selecting their hiking buddies. 

Attendees should bring ample water (1+ gallons for Warriors), and wear sturdy hiking boots. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a walking stick or poles are also recommended.

Healthy refreshments are available at “celebration stations” at the staging area at the base of the preserve, and the 1-mile and 3-mile turnaround points.

The Warrior Hike Challenge officially starts at 7 a.m. and staff will be onsite until 4 p.m. to answer questions and provide support. 

El Capitan is located at 13775 Blue Sky Ranch Road in Lakeside. The parking area and trailhead are located at the intersection of Wildcat Canyon Road and Blue Sky Ranch Road. Overflow parking is at Oakoasis County Preserve across the street and along Wildcat Cayon Road. RSVPs are not required.

Learn about volunteering for the 2024 Warrior Hike Challenge.

Costume Contest Winners Crowned

Congratulations to the 2024 County Employees Costume Contest winners. More than 1,200 employees voted in the poll to select the winners.

This year we had four categories and four winners:

Scariest: Leandra King, Self-Sufficiency Services

Most Creative: Sherry Brideau, Public works

Best Makeup/Face Paint: Nined Penuelas, Self-Sufficiency Services

Best Group: Armida Nieblas, Maria Ugarte, Deere Garcia, Paula Cuevas, Mike Schmidt, Ubaldo Chavez, Shantal Diaz, Bianca Graciano, Jacqueline Gopez, Paola Jimenez, & Leticia Ramos from Self-Sufficiency Services – Hospital and Community Support Services

County’s Debt Finance Manager Receives Women in Public Finance Honors

Michele Light, the County’s Debt Finance Manager, was recently named an Issuer Ambassador at the 28th Women in Public Finance (WPF) Annual Conference held in San Diego this year.

WPF is a national, professional organization that supports and advances the careers of women in public finance by fostering relationships and networking and providing educational and learning activities and forums. The 2024 Issuer Ambassador Program included 14 chapters and 19 ambassadors nationwide.

As a member of the San Diego Chapter for the past several years, to include serving as the President for two years, Light was nominated and selected for her dedication to the San Diego Chapter and experience in debt finance in the San Diego region.

When asked, ‘what does this honor mean to you?’ “I was humbled to have been nominated by my peers in the finance industry and was thrilled when I was selected to serve as an Issuer Ambassador. I remember attending my first annual conference held in Los Angeles several years ago and how motivated, encouraged and supported I felt when the conference ended. WPF reminds us how important we are to the field of finance and to each other in our career journeys,” said Light.

Light joined the County 23 years ago and has served as a manager in several departments that include the Sheriff, Auditor and Controller, San Diego County Employees Retirement Association (SDCERA), and currently serves as the Debt Finance Manager in the Office of Financial Planning.

Vote for the Costume Contest Winners

Vote for your favorite finalists in the Costume Contest. The polls are open through 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1. The top vote getters will win!

Vote now.

It’s not too late to share a photo of your costume. Email a photo to be added to the gallery.

Lip Sync Battle Winner Announced

Congratulations to the 2024 Lip Sync Battle champions. Employees voted and selected the Zumbaholics from HHSA Fiscal Services as the winner. The group is Alyssa Monge Peralta, Debbie Ordonez, Jasmin Resurreccion, Joy Bernardo, Maggie Zaratan, Janice Almazan, Rina Bondoc, Hoda Pooladi and Lu Florendo. 

Watch their video. (You must be on network to watch this video.)

Your View: Miramar Career Fair

Miramar Career Fair

Human Resources Analyst/Executive Recruiter and Veteran Outreach Coordinator Jorge Puente shared this photo taken at a career fair at Miramar.

Share your photos! If you see a coworker getting the job done, a beautiful sunset over your office or a wonderful County program being offered—snap a pic and submit it.

Be sure to include information about the photo and your name. Images may be posted to InSite and shared on social media. 

See more of Your View photos.