At the Firm

Brian attended Bob Veres’ Insider’s Forum in New Orleans to learn the latest trends in the wealth management industry. One of CCMI’s core values is We Hold Ourselves Accountable and a key component of that value is continual learning. Brian learned about some interesting tools he is excited to share with the team to continue to improve the services provided by CCMI. Brian also attended an event in San Diego where he was able to hear from Mike Pompeo, who recounted stories from his time as CIA Director and Secretary of State. His primary message to the group was to make a difference in their local communities by serving others. 

Matt joined the members of his Vistage group for a weekend retreat in Sedona, Ariz., where they had a speaker talk about neuro-linguistic programming as a communication tool. The group also did a half-day Vortex tour to learn about the origin and science behind the unique electromagnetic fields that exist in that area. It was a really great weekend to learn from one another and form deeper bonds.

Kim hosted the Women In Business cooking event at her home this year. It featured a chef who showed them how to make tortillas from scratch. The ladies enjoyed making their own fresh tortillas and building their own tacos while socializing and enjoying each other’s company. Kim also organized Rotary’s biannual poolside chat meeting, which brings new members and committee chairs together so newer members can get a better understanding of the over 50 Rotary committees.

Rebalancing and quarter-end projects and preparing for year-end tax planning kept us busy for the month. 

On the Home Front

Brian and Nikki enjoyed a four-day backpacking trip to Havasupai, which is at the bottom of the Havasu Canyon (a tributary of the Grand Canyon). The hike in was 10 miles and a 2,500-foot elevation drop, which means it was a climb out! They had a great time exploring the bottom of the canyon and the various waterfalls. 

Matt and his kids attended the Poway Rodeo while Alex was away on a camping trip; the kids had a great time watching the various events and seeing what a real rodeo looks like. Matt also spent several weekends taking Jacob to his favorite trampoline park and continues to try to keep up with Lizzie’s busy ballet schedule as she prepares to perform in the Nutcracker this holiday season.   

Kim and Tyler celebrated their anniversary with a staycation in Mission Beach. They had fun relaxing and being tourists in their own town. One of the days they did yoga and hiking with Tyler’s work hiking group — one of the members is a yoga instructor. It was Tyler’s second time ever doing yoga and they had a fun time followed by a group hike up Monserate Mountain in Fallbrook.

Tina and her family recently returned from an extraordinary trip to Africa, which began in Rwanda at Volcanoes National Park, where they had the rare opportunity to trek through the forest and observe mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in their natural habitat. One of the most memorable moments was spending time up close with the Sabyinyo gorilla family, a total of 13 gorillas including two silverbacks — truly gentle giants. 

As part of their visit, they also spent time at a local primary school, where they had the privilege of engaging with the students and donating school supplies to support their education — a heartwarming and impactful experience.

From there, they traveled to South Africa for an incredible safari in Kruger National Park. They were fortunate to spot Africa’s iconic Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo — many of them more than once! They also saw an abundance of babies and were encouraged to witness such healthy wildlife thriving in well-preserved ecosystems.

The trip concluded in Cape Town, including a visit to the Cape of Good Hope, where the stunning scenery was the perfect end to their adventure. Beyond the incredible wildlife and landscapes, they were deeply moved by the warmth and hospitality of the people of Rwanda and South Africa. Their kindness and welcoming spirit made their journey even more memorable and meaningful.

This journey was not only inspiring but also a reminder of the importance of conservation, education, and global connection.

Monica is enjoying a newly remodeled bedroom. Mike added beams and new lights to the ceiling, board and batten to the walls, and fresh paint to the entire room. They finally have carpet after six months of living on concrete floors. Mike’s furniture building hobby and attention to detail led him to make a beautiful white oak console table to hide electronics under a frame TV. Monica promptly decorated the new table along with the rest of the house for Halloween and fall.

Abby had the opportunity to go to Japan with a girlfriend and her daughter. She had the most amazing time exploring areas of Tokyo and Kyoto. They also got to go to Disney Sea, as that’s where her friend’s daughter will be spending the year working. The country is one of her favorites, for its people, food, and beauty, and she enjoyed everything it had to offer. Abby hopes to return one day to explore areas she missed. She also looks forward to the upcoming holiday season!   

The Hurleys spent a day at Gigi’s first swim meet (much longer than they expected) but loved cheering her on during the 90 seconds she was in the water across three events. Mike kicked off spooky season by taking Olivia and a friend to Howl-O-Scream (which was too scary for Gigi and Jessica). Olivia also joined her school’s Chess Club. Back at home, Mike and Jessica are planting a succulent garden in the front yard, which has been a great excuse to chat with old neighbors and meet new ones.

Not too much to report for the Williford family. They have been busy attending birthday parties and barbeques seemingly every weekend! The highlight for the girls was probably going to the La Mesa Oktoberfest. Mackenzie enjoyed running around and pointing out every dog and Ansley had her face painted and was absolutely enamored with it!

Alana celebrated her friend’s 40th birthday in the Shasta Mountain National Forest. It was so refreshing to get back under the deciduous trees, a reminder of her PNW days. Camping is one of her favorite activities. They celebrated her friend’s birthday with a “rib-off.” Everyone brought their own rack and special seasonings. They also went on a few waterfall hikes and walked to the creek each morning to try and snag some rainbow trout. It was a very fun weekend!  

The Klines had a busy month full of soccer and baseball games. Brooks is really enjoying his first year of soccer and improving every game in both sports. Outside of sports, they celebrated birthdays, enjoyed spending time with their families, and dog sat for Kyle’s parents.  

Life has been good but hectic for Joe and his family. They are expecting a baby girl who will be here by the next time they give an update. They are very excited and busy preparing for her arrival!

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