Join us as we learn career advice from Aaron Hake, Executive Director at Riverside County Transportation Commission!

Our Pick Power Hour is an informal, interactive conversation between the speaker and our members, focusing on lessons in business, leadership, and professional development. Rather than a formal presentation, the event will be a moderated discussion, facilitated by a host who will introduce the speaker and guide the conversation.

The session will be followed by a Q&A and time to connect with fellow attendees.

Pick Power Hour is FREE for current Pick Group members and $10 for non-members. Refreshments will be provided. We hope to see you there!

About Aaron Hake

Aaron Hake serves as the Executive Director of the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) and the Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority (RCA) where he leads a staff of 81 members across nine departments with an overall annual budget of over a billion dollars. RCTC’s Executive Committee unanimously selected Aaron to lead RCTC and RCA and tasked him with implementing Riverside County’s transportation and regional conservation vision. Aaron is the sixth Executive Directorin RCTC’s 48-year history.

In 2006, Aaron started his career at RCTC, concentrating on transportation policy and advocating for project funding at both federal and state levels. Over the years, he has served in several key roles, including Director of External Affairs, Interim Deputy Executive Director for the Regional Conservation Authority, and Deputy Executive Director at RCTC. Aaron has been at the forefront of significant issues during his time at RCTC including legislative and funding advocacy, management of one of the most extensive habitat conservation plans in the United States, and development of the Commission-approved Traffic Relief Plan, a landmark bold vision for addressing Riverside County’s transportation needs.

As a civic leader in Riverside County, Aaron has served as Chair of the Riverside County Planning Commission, the City of Corona Planning Commission, and Treasurer of the City of Corona. He has served as Board Chair of the Inland Southern California United Way and has participated on numerous other local nonprofit boards of directors. His efforts have earned him recognition, including the WTS Inland Empire Chapter Secretary Ray LaHood Award, the Pick Group of Young Professionals IMPACT Award for Civic Leadership, and the 30 Under 30 by the Corona Chamber of Commerce.

Aaron earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and philosophy from American University in Washington, D.C., and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California. Aaron is a lifelong resident of Riverside County.

Pick Group Member Registration Form (Free)

🎨 Join Us for a Creative Night Out in Riverside!

Looking for a fun and relaxing way to unwind? Come paint with us in the heart of Riverside!

🗓 Date: Friday, November 15th, 2024
⏰ Time: 6PM - 9PM
📍 Location: The Raincross District, 3583 Market St, Riverside, CA 92501
🎟 Cost: Free for Pick Members | $35 for Non-Members
🍿Refreshments & snacks provided

We’ll supply everything you need, including canvases, paints, and brushes. An experienced artist from Paint the Town will guide you through creating a series of 4 small magnetic canvases - no experience necessary! 🎨✨

Pick Group Member RSVP Form (FREE)

Build strategic connections and network with Riverside business leaders at the Boos & Brews AfterHours Mixer. This month's mixer will feature networking at Route 30 Brewing Company. Come dressed in strange and unusual attire!

This event is free for all Pick Group Members and guests.

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Vanessa flores at floresvanessa024@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Since 2008, the Pick Group has been creating space for young professionals to engage civically, develop professionally, and connect socially in the Riverside area.

Now, 16 years later, we are excited to celebrate those who have helped move this mission forward. Join us for an evening of live music, hors d'oeuvres, and an open bar as we toast to our city's young professionals and Pick Group trailblazers making a big... IMPACT!

Event details found here: https://www.pickriverside.org/tickets

Click here to see photos from past impact events.

Join us for an exclusive Pickside Chat featuring a true leader in our community, City of Riverside Chief of Police, Larry Gonzalez! 🎙️

On **September 12th at 6 PM**, Chief Gonzalez will share his incredible journey as a public servant, the challenges and triumphs of navigating public safety, and the unique balancing act of working within government processes. Whether you're passionate about public safety, interested in government careers, or just want to be inspired by a local leader, this is an event you can't afford to miss! Space is limited.

💡 **Why Attend?**
- Get firsthand insights from a seasoned public safety leader.
- Learn how young professionals like YOU can make an impact in local government.
- Engage in meaningful conversations that could shape your career and our community.

📍 **Location:**
Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce - 3985 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92501

Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and get inspired! Let’s fill the room with energy and enthusiasm as we come together to discuss the future of public safety in Riverside. See you there! 🚔

Join Us for The Pick Group’s “The Language of Money” Seminar!

 Date: August 21st, 2024
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm 
 Location: Greater Riverside Chambers Of Commerce- 985 University Avenue, Riverside, CA, 92501

Are you ready to take control of your financial future? Join us for an enlightening event where industry experts will share their insights on essential financial topics. Our distinguished speakers include:

• Ben Guizlo, CFP, AWMA – Planable Wealth

• Brad Sneckner, Mortgage Lender – MegaStar Financial Corp.

• Leo Carrillo, Credit Optimization – Premier Credit LLC

Dive into these essential topics:

• The Psychology of Money: Understand the emotional and psychological factors that influence your financial decisions.

• Smart Budgeting Strategies: Learn practical tips to manage your finances effectively.

• Mastering Credit Scores: Discover how to optimize your credit score for better financial opportunities.

• Real Estate and Mortgage Insights: Gain valuable knowledge about the real estate market and mortgage options.

• Retirement and Investing Tips: Plan for a secure and prosperous future with expert advice.

• Insurance Fundamentals: Understand the basics of insurance to protect yourself and your assets.

Event is FREE for Pick Group Members and $10 for non-members. Refreshments and appetizers will be provided.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your financial literacy and make informed decisions about your money.

RSVP today and take the first step towards financial empowerment!

Thank you to our event sponsor!

California Baptist University, School of Business

Pick Member Registration Form (Free)

Get ready to shake things up at The Pick Group’s Mixology Night! This is your chance to learn the art of cocktail making in a fun and interactive class.

📅 Date: August 10th, 2024
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Legible - 3870 Main Street Suite 202, Riverside, CA 92501

What to Expect:

• Mixology Class: Learn to craft three unique cocktails:

  • Maple Brown Sugar Old Fashioned

  • Blackberry Margarita

  • Serrano Southside

• All Ingredients Provided: We’ve got everything you need to create these delicious drinks.

• Take-Home Goodies: Keep a shaker set and glass as a memento of the night.

• Networking: Mingle with fellow cocktail enthusiasts and make new friends.

Price: $20 per individual, $30 per couple

Don’t miss out on this exciting evening of creativity and flavor. Bring your friends and make it a night to remember!

Thank you to our sponsor!

UCR School of Business

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Claudia Valdez at cu.valdez0412@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Elevate Your Career with Insights from a Government Leader!

Calling all young professionals aged 21-40! Are you ready to fast-track your career and dive into the world of government leadership? Join us for an exclusive event with Jeff Van Wagenen, CEO of County of Riverside, as he takes us through his remarkable journey in public service.

Jeff's dynamic career path and leadership expertise will provide you with actionable strategies to enhance your professional journey. Whether you're just starting out or looking to make a career pivot, this event is packed with insights you can't afford to miss.

Why Attend?

🔹 Gain insider knowledge on career growth in government

🔹 Network with like-minded professionals

🔹 Get inspired by a leader making a real impact

Spaces are limited – RSVP now and secure your spot!

Join us on July 24th for an inspiring and insightful conversation with Fabrice Pascal Alce, visionary co-founder of the Beignet Spot and founder of Mélange Hospitality Group!

What to Expect:

Career Journey: Fabrice will share his remarkable journey in the dynamic hospitality industry. 

Career Advice: Get ready for valuable insights! Fabrice will provide tips, tricks, and practical advice for aspiring professionals in the field.

Q&A Session: Have burning questions? Our host will facilitate an engaging Q&A session, so you can interact directly with Fabrice.

Remember, this isn’t a formal presentation—it’s a conversation! So mark your calendars and join us for an evening of inspiration and camaraderie. 

Pick Power Hour is FREE for current Pick Group members and $10 for non-members. Refreshments will be provided. We hope to see you there!

About Fabrice Pascal Alce

Fabrice has been in the hospitality industry for our 10 years. Following his initial passion for finance, he moved to New York to pursue a career in industry where he quickly realized that his true passion was for restaurants. His hospitality journey spanning New York, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and now Riverside led him ultimately to his current venture with Beignet Spot. The company is currently franchising and is aiming for 40 stores over the next 5 years. Fabrice, when he is not at the store, is home with his wife Janea and his old son Myles. Fabrice enjoys chess, CrossFit cooking, and reading.

Pick Group Member Registration Form (Free)

🎉 You’re Invited to the Pick Group’s Annual Patriotic Pub Crawl! 🎉

Join us as we celebrate freedom and friendship with a spirited journey through the best bars in Downtown Riverside. Don your stars and stripes, and let’s make this a night to remember!

Crawl Schedule:

• The Lobby

• DTE

• Killer Queens

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, July 6th

Time: 7:00pm - 10:00pm

Meeting Point: The Lobby

Special Notes:

Free for Pick Group Members

$20 for Non-Members

Drink Included at each bar for all attendees.

Let’s raise our glasses to freedom and make this pub crawl one for the history books! 🍻

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Claudia Valdez at cu.valdez0412@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Join us for Movie Night! We will be watching “The Lion King” (live action version).

Snacks and drinks will be provided. We look forward to seeing you there!

So come on, let’s get those priorities in line and make time work for you!

Seminar is FREE for Pick Group Members & $10 for non-members.

Refreshments will be provided.

We hope to see you there!

Join us for a day of community service and camaraderie at the 2024 The Great American Cleanup!

The Pick Group is assembling a team of dedicated volunteers to contribute to the beautification of our beloved City of Riverside. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a tangible difference in our environment while connecting with fellow community members.

Each volunteer will also receive a free T-Shirt!

Deadline to register is April 22, and our cleanup site location will be announced by May 9th.

We’re excited to see you there, ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference!

Join us for an evening designed for ambitious young professionals eager to connect, collaborate, and create lasting professional relationships.

This is more than just a networking event; it’s an opportunity to enhance your personal brand with complimentary professional headshots for all our Pick Group members!

Event Highlights:

• Professional Headshots: Step into the spotlight and get a free headshot taken by our skilled photographers from Compelle. Perfect for your LinkedIn profile! (Click here to see their portfolio)

• Open Networking: Mingle with peers and industry veterans in a relaxed, supportive environment.

• Refreshments: Enjoy a selection of small bites and beverages to keep the conversation flowing

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your professional network, update your headshot, and connect with like-minded peers. Reserve your spot today! *

*Networking event is free and open to all young professionals. Headshots are exclusively for Pick Group Members.*

Have a knack for writing, marketing, social media or design? Contact Clarissa Morales to learn how to get involved and help tell the Pick Group's story. 

Committee meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 5:30pm.

Are you a networking guru that loves to plan parties and connect people to colleagues and resources? Contact Megan Durkee to learn how to get involved and help grow our awesome organization!

Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Route 30 at 6:00pm.

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Claudia Valdez at cu.valdez0412@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Join us as we learn career advice from Ana Brown from Raincross District!

Pick Power Hour is FREE for current Pick Group members and $10 for non-members. Refreshments will be provided. We hope to see you there!

About Ana Brown

My name is Ana Brown. I am a business owner, investor, loan officer, mother, wife, and enthusiast of the innovative spirit. I was born in Los Angeles, California. I lived in Southgate (Los Angeles) until the age of eight. My parents were immigrants, and I was lucky to have been born a citizen of the United States. In the late eighties, my mother fled an abusive marriage and moved us to Corona, CA- the Inland Empire. The move was difficult as we had to relocate to Mexico for a few months while she settled her affairs. I learned the power of perseverance and hard work at a very young age. As a single parent, my mother was resourceful and always had multiple jobs to provide income for our household. As kids, we would help where needed while absorbing entrepreneurship lessons.

My grades in the early years of school were above average. I learned to read, write, and speak Spanish by age five; I learned English as a second language in school. In junior high and high school, transportation and lack of necessities made it challenging to keep up. I struggled, but I graduated with my high school diploma. I did very well while attending community college. At this time, the eagerness to grow up caught up with me, and I became a mother and a wife. The school would have to wait.

As a small child, my mind always wondered about business ideas. I created a business plan to sell cookies in elementary school, including my costs and profit. In my teenage years, we would coordinate backyard parties with admission fees. When I turned 18, I worked full-time as an administrative assistant and started my first business, where I bought wholesale and sold in the Swap meets of Riverside. There were a few years when I was fortunate to stay at home with my children. In 2004, returning to the workforce, I found myself in a customer service position; this was a turning point in my professional career.

As a mother of two, time was more valuable than money. Real Estate was hot, and I became a notary. This was an extraordinary opportunity. I returned to my college career in 2010, but the circumstances did not allow me to continue. In 2014, I also became a licensed Loan Officer. With the skills learned in both these self-employed positions, the natural progression was to further the independent business model. My husband became my business partner in 2020 by purchasing our 1st investment property. We currently operate our property management, and in 2021, to diversify, I designed a business plan to incorporate community and retail; that business opened in 2023 and opened its second location in 2024.

My life is dedicated to being a mother, wife, and entrepreneur. Continual education is a vital component of my success. Also supporting my success is maintaining balance, spiritually and physically, and pivoting priorities with life changes.

Pick Group Member Registration Form

Did you know that the Pick Group is having a free Trivia Night on March 20th at Route 30 Brewing Co.? 

Come show us what you know in a night of quizzical fun with other young professionals!

First drink is on us, and we will have small bites for everyone. We hope to see you there!

Join us for the City of Riverside Boards and Commissions Workshop presented by Donesia Gause, City Clerk.

Event is free and open to all young professionals!

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Claudia Valdez at cu.valdez0412@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Calling all young professionals! You don't want to miss Pick's Annual Membership Summit!

This is a FREE once a year opportunity for anyone who is interested in finding out what The Pick Group is all about.

At the Summit you will have time to network with like-minded young professionals, meet our sponsors, hear from each of Pick's committee chairs, and have fun!

First drink is on us, and we will have small bites for everyone!  We hope to see you there!

Have a knack for writing, marketing, social media or design? Contact Clarissa Morales to learn how to get involved and help tell the Pick Group's story. 

Committee meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 5:30pm.

Are you a networking guru that loves to plan parties and connect people to colleagues and resources? Contact Megan Durkee to learn how to get involved and help grow our awesome organization!

Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Route 30 at 6:00pm.

Join us for a night of basketball as we watch CBU go against Southern Utah University!

This is a FREE Pick Group Member Exclusive Event! Sign up today! (only 15 tickets left!)

Are you involved in Riverside civic life? Contact Lindsey German to help get Pick Group a seat at the non-profit, community and government tables. 

Committee meets the 3rd Thursday of the month via Zoom at 12:00pm.

Join us to learn career advice from Brad Sneckner!

Brad was born in Oregon, and spent most of his childhood moving around quite a bit. He moved to California at age 10, and attended Santiago High School in Corona. While he did spend one semester in college, he figured out pretty quickly that he did not want to pursue a degree in conventional higher education. Instead, he wanted to jump into the work force and learn skills by doing. He got a job in banking that first year after graduating high school and spent the next 8 years learning sales skills, financial services, and developing a knack for teaching himself new things. Even though he chose not to attend a university, he has continued to nurture a very genuine love of learning, and reads continuously. In 2012, a good friend introduced Brad to the world of real estate and mortgage financing. And in 2014 he began his career as a mortgage lender with the mission of making the homebuying experience more approachable and understandable for people wanting to own their home and build wealth through real estate.

Brad is an avid adventurer, whether he’s riding dirt bikes, camping under the stars in the mountains, or backpacking through foreign countries to drink from the world’s cultural fountains. As a committed self-development nut, he has a passion for helping people find their calling and develop into the best version of themselves, and firmly believes that true joy and satisfaction comes from living life daily with a sense of adventure and appreciation for the small things.

His biggest encouragement to young professionals is to not let anyone or anything hold you back without asking “how can I overcome this,” and never accepting defeat. You ARE capable and you DO have what it takes.

Pick Power Hour is FREE for current Pick Group members and $10 for non-members. Refreshments will be provided!

Pick Group Member Registration Form