C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
O CTOBER 201 5
FREE
What’s
brewing in SOUTH BAY?
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT: BARBARA LEGG BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS: GLEN ABBEY + LORI STARR GRAPHIC DESIGN & DON BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY
CONTENTS/ EDITOR'S LETTER
16 WHAT’S BREWING IN SOUTH BAY?
California, long known for its wine, has established a new reputation for brewing. Chula Vista is not only keeping pace with the rest of the state but is also reflecting its unique international intersection of U.S. and Mexico with a growing “Octoberfest” celebration, Mariachi Oktoberfiesta! Whether you say cerveza or beer, this 21+ event invites people to taste a variety of food and alcoholic beverages while enjoying live music. Our feature story highlights several local breweries that not only craft their own beers but also educate their customers about brewing. If beer isn’t your thing, October is a month that invites people to sit back, relax and have a good time. This month, community organizations offer special classes like swing dance lessons at the library or a cooking class at the Norman Park Senior Center. Charities like the Sweetwater Woman’s Club prepare for their annual fundraiser. Of course, there’s Halloween, a time for children—and adults— to dress up as someone other than themselves and gorge on sweet treats. As we enter the fall stretch of holidays, we encourage you to enjoy the changing season, relax with your family and friends, and have a safe Halloween!
O C T O B E R 2 01 5
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
14 SCHOOL New State Standards a Familiar Place for Heritage Schools
16 FEATURE What's Brewing in South Bay?
20 ON TOPIC Barley, Beer and Pig Feed
22 CALENDAR Out & About
24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT Glen Abbey Lori Starr & Don Brown
26 RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Barbara Legg
—AMBER WEBER, editor
Cover/Feature Photos by Julia Schafer OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3
BRAVO
PUBLISHED BY:
great things happening in our community
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
› To SWEETWATER VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE ALL-STARS for winning the West Region Championship. After outscoring four opponents 50-22 in the regional championship, the team of 12-year olds competed in the Little League World Series in Pennsylvania in August. They were welcomed home after the tough competition by a grand celebration in Chula Vista.
› To the 35TH ANNUAL ORANGE CRATE DERBY WINNERS. This year’s race featured many first-time competitors and many who shared community cars. Participants, who
ranged from 7 to 14 years old, enjoyed the speed of racing down the course on Rancho Del Rey Parkway between Terra Nova Drive and Del Rey Boulevard. Winners of the A Division were Jared Ashman (Fire & Ice), Kyler Limas (Shooting Star) and Brianna Amezcua (Intimidator). Winners of the B Division were Nicholas Jimenez (Midnight Cruiser), Gabriel Papaioanu (Big Kahuna) and Skylar Savoie (Freedom Racer). Winners of the C Division were Zander Samarasinghe (Fire & Ice), Joshua Chrislock (Rock Star) and William Webb (Ghost Rider). Winners of the D Division were Josiah Schenk (Spirit) and Andrew Webb (Ghost Rider).
The event was sponsored by the Chula Vista Sunrise and Sunset Rotary Clubs with the support of many local businesses. Congratulations to everyone for their support and participation!
› To CONCORDIA
MELISSA MONROY, Design
ASHLYN O'HARA, Intern
CHURCH AND SCHOOL for breaking ground on a new building. On Saturday, August 22, Forest Partch, president of the congregation, turned over the first shovel for a new multi-purpose education building. The structure will double the worship space, add preschool classrooms and expand after-school programs.
ALEXIS HERNANDEZ, Intern
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Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. OHTM Inc. is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or advertisers. OHTM Inc has the right to refuse advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. at (619) 840−7722.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Annual Luncheon Auction BY THE BAY
Supports Rady Children’s Hospital Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary is a diverse group of volunteers with something important in common: a deep love and concern for children. The Auxiliary currently has 23 supporting units throughout San Diego and Riverside counties that work in partnership with Rady Children’s Hospital to advocate for the health and well-being of children, increase community awareness, and fundraise. The Bonita unit is one of the Auxiliary’s oldest, with members from Bonita, Chula Vista and Eastlake working to serve the hospital and its patients for over 60 years.
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Each unit within the Auxiliary holds an annual fundraiser dedicated to a specific department or specialty within the hospital. The Bonita unit is proud to present the 27th Annual Luncheon Auction by the Bay on November 7 at 10:00 a.m. at Paradise Point Resort in Mission Bay. Proceeds from this event will benefit the palliative/supportive care medicine program. The theme for the 27th Annual Luncheon Auction by the Bay is “Our Little Angels.” Ceramic angel centerpieces handcrafted and painted by a unit member will be raffled off as part of the event. The event includes both silent and live auctions with over 300 items available for bidding and
a guest speaker from Rady Children’s Hospital. As a relatively new program, the palliative/supportive care medicine program strives to enhance the quality of life and reduce the suffering of children and teens with life-limiting illnesses. The program provides a comprehensive approach to care, focusing on the physical, psychological, social, emotional and spiritual needs of patients and their families. Palliative/supportive care ideally begins at the time of diagnosis of a lifethreatening, incurable or debilitating condition, and continues throughout the child’s life. The palliative/supportive care team provides services focusing on quality
On your Doorstep
Trick or Treat at Village Walk
of life, end-of-life care, child and family support, education, information and referrals for appropriate health care services or community resources, and bereavement support. Featured at this year’s event is original artwork from renowned Spanish artist Ramon Moscardo. Donated by the artist himself, the two pieces showcase his hometown of Cadeques, Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
The cost of the event is $75 per person or $750 for a table of ten. Contact Bonita unit member Teri Bristow at tbristow2@ cox.net for reservations or to be added to the mailing list. To learn more about the Rady Children's Hospital Auxiliary and to get involved, visit http://www.helpsdkids.org/.
A
Calling all ghosts and goblins! Children ages 12 and under are invited to pick up free treats at participating merchants at Village Walk at EastLake and EastLake Village Marketplace on Friday, October 30 from 3 to 5 p.m.
Children should dress in costume and be accompanied by an adult. Simply check in at one of the free registration areas, receive a free treat bag and a list of participating merchants and then enjoy the free treats that will be distributed at this annual event. Village Walk at EastLake is located on EastLake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista. It features 30 stores and services including Trader Joe’s, Sprouts Farmers Market, Pier 1 Imports and T.J. Maxx. EastLake Village Marketplace is located on the corner of Otay Lakes Road and EastLake Parkway in Chula Vista and features 30 shops and services including Target, Lowe’s and Office Depot. For additional information, call (858) 695-2700.
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On your Doorstep
Ambassador Program Open to Children, Teens and Young Adults South Bay Ambassador Program (SBAP), a local, community, nonprofit organization, is seeking youth ambassadors to serve the community. Ambassadors should not only love their community, but also want to make a difference. They may be as young as five and as old as 24. Applicants must live in Coronado, National City, Bonita, Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, Otay Mesa or San Ysidro.
promote education and community involvement, as well as develop or uncover hidden talent.˝
SBAP’s mission is ˝to empower youth to build character and self¯esteem,
For more details, email Angelica Wallace at SouthBayAmbassadors@gmail.com.
The organization's vision is “to create a community for South Bay's youth to grow as individuals and to lay a foundation rooted in volunteerism, community service and positive character building so that they become the leaders of tomorrow.”
Swing Into the Library October 18 Learn to swing dance, or just relax and enjoy big band music at “Swing Into the Library,” at the Hub community room at Otay Ranch Library, and in the Food Pavilion of the Otay Ranch Town Center, 2015 Birch Road. This free event will be held on Sunday, October 18 at 2 p.m. The fun will begin as professional dance instructors Jack and Carolann Eskridge lead a free 45-minute class in East Coast swing. New and experienced dancers will then have a chance to practice and show off their moves as the Downbeat Big Band, a 17-piece San Diego band, performs in the mall’s Food Pavilion from 3 to 5 p.m. The band, led by music director and guitarist Philip Marcus and producer Joe Zampi on trumpet, is made up of vocalists and a variety of instrumentalists playing saxophone, trumpet, trombone and rhythm.
GLEN ABBEY memorial park & mortuary 3838 BONITA ROAD BONITA, CA fd 1371 / coa 429
619-498-4600
The event will also kick off extended hours at the Otay Ranch Branch Library. Beginning October 18, the busy eastside branch will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Swing Into the Library is sponsored by the Friends of the Chula Vista Library and made possible in part by the City of Chula Vista and the Chula Vista Visual & Performing Arts grant. DignityMemorial.com
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On your Doorstep
Salute Our Veterans will be held Saturday, November 4th
As the City of Chula Vista moves forward with one of the nation's largest and most exciting waterfront developments, Parade Band Foundation, Inc. is proud to present its 6th annual event, the Chula Vista Bayfront Band Review & Festival. Dozens of marching bands will compete down the newly finished H Street extension, ending at the community festival at Bayside Park. Formerly at the Otay Ranch Town Center, the event is produced with the support of the Port of San Diego, County of San Diego, SDG&E and the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce. "Parades with marching bands have long played a role in bringing our communities together, inspiring our youth and celebrating the spirit of America‌When our fighting men and women returned from defending our freedoms, our military bands welcomed them home with the same music performed at our event to celebrate their triumphs and honor their losses," says Jason Paguio, President and CEO. As the largest free event of its kind in San Diego County and top five largest in Southern California, the annual event draws thousands of scholastic music participants from throughout Southern California to beautiful Chula Vista. The event has connected both community and local businesses in a synergetic atmosphere not achieved before. Military veterans, community service organizations, scholastic athletic teams, school clubs, cheerleaders, classic cars, team mascots, dance teams, ROTCs, local businesses and community leaders participate in the parade. The event also features a community festival showcasing Chula Vista and San Diego's talents with live music, choirs, artists and acts.
Jason Paguio (L), President and CEO, Parade Band Foundation, Inc.; Grand Marshal Master Sergeant Duane F. King (R).
This year's Grand Marshal is Master Sergeant Duane F. King, 40th Drum Major of "The President's Own" United States Marine Band in Washington, D.C. As Drum Major of "The President's Own," Master Sgt. King serves as the senior enlisted member of the unit and is responsible for the band's appearance, ceremonial drill and military decorum. He is charged with directing the band in ceremonial commitments, including the inaugural parade, and will regularly lead the band in review for U.S. presidents, heads of state and international dignitaries.
Visit ChulaVistaParade.org for more information.
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OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
New Classes at Norman Park Senior Center
What can be better than dancing, laughter and food? Chula Vista’s Norman Park Senior Center is offering classes in all three subjects this month, and they are all free.
Dance Cardio Party Now underway every Monday and Wednesday through the month of October, Dance Cardio Party will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Participants will get their heart rate up as they groove to the music while dancing at their own pace. Have fun, make friends and be fit!
Laughter Yoga Laugh your troubles away with the new Laughter Yoga class. By incorporating deep breathing along with laughter exercises, this class can be done sitting or standing. Taught by a certified Laughter Yoga instructor, attendees can reduce stress and feel more energized. The class is offered every Tuesday through October, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Changing Minds and Habits This is s healthy, five-week cooking course offered by Kitchenista Patty. Learn how to create a complete, healthy, Latin-inspired meal and how simple changes can help you lead a healthier life. No experience is necessary. Classes are on Wednesdays beginning from 1 to 3 p.m.
All of the classes, funded in part by the San Diego Foundation's Health and Human Services' grant, will be held at the Norman Park Senior Center, 240 F Street in Chula Vista. For more information, call (619) 409-1930. 10 O U R HOMETOWN • OC TOB E R 2 0 15
On your Doorstep
Bonita Holidays Craft Fair and Home Tour to Benefit
First Coffee
with Councilman Miesen
Local Charities The Sweetwater Woman's Club's 48th annual "Bonita Holidays" Craft Fair and Home Tour will be held Saturday, Oct. 24 and Sunday, Oct. 25 at 3855 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. The free craft fair includes a farmers' market, full of home baked goodies, and garden shop.
cheeseballs
Tasty cheeseballs in five delicious flavors prepared by club members will be for sale during "Bonita Holidays." Each year members make approximately 800 balls from cheese purchased from a Wisconsin dairy, then shipped in a refrigerated truck. Club members don hairnets and plastic gloves and begin the process of cutting, rolling and wrapping cheeseballs. It looks like an episode of I Love Lucy and is just as much fun!
craft fair
The craft fair draws many crafters from the Southern California area. Hand-made items include pottery, knitted hats and scarfs, jewelry, stationery, Christmas decorations, quilts, homemade jams, olives, tamales and many other original creations. The emphasis is on hand-made and oneof-a-kind crafts.
farmers market
The farmers' market offers freshly baked goods made by members; fresh fruits and vegetables will also be for sale. The garden shop includes many potted succulents and assorted plants from the club members' own gardens at bargain prices.
home tours
Three unique Bonita homes can be seen on the home tour on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each home will be decorated with holiday items which can be purchased. Members will be on hand to answer questions about each home. Tickets for the home tour are $15. All proceeds go to charities such as local schools, the Burn Institute, South Bay Collaborative and scholarships for seniors in the Sweetwater Union High School District.
The Sweetwater Woman's Club was formed over 100 years ago in Bonita by local ranchers' wives when Bonita was a farming and orchard area. Today, it has over 60 members and meets the second Thursday of the month at their clubhouse at 3855 Sweetwater Road. The clubhouse, built in 1934 by Southern California architect Cliff May, is available for parties, weddings and other special events. Call the Sweetwater Woman's Club at (619) 479-7888 or visit sweetwaterwomansclub.org.
Over 100 people attended Councilmember Steve Miesen’s first ˝Coffee with the Councilman˝ which focused on one of his top priorities, Chula Vista’s new Economic Development Work Plan. The councilman was joined by a panel featuring regional partners including Lisa Cohen, CEO of the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce; Cindy Gompper-Graves, CEO of South County Economic Development Council; Luanne Hulsizer, Executive Director of the Third Avenue Village Association; Jordan Marks, District Director of the Board of Equalization; Diane Harkey, Member of the Board of Equalization; and Eric Crockett, Economic Development Director of the City of Chula Vista. The event took the interest of many of Chula Vista's business owners, residents and community leaders, who had an opportunity to ask questions of Councilmember Miesen and the panel. As part of the outreach, all those who attended also filled out a survey about their opinions of the direction of the plan, if it helps businesses, what else they would like included and what topics or follow-up they would be interested in at the next coffee.
If you would like to attend one of Councilmember Miesen's next coffees, contact Jason Paguio, Policy and Outreach Advisor to Councilmember Steve Miesen, at jpaguio@chulavistaca.gov or (619) 409-3823. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Police Department Offers
Halloween Safety Tips Before halloween
Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame. Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider hypoallergenic make-up or a decorative hat as a safe alternative. If your child wears a mask, make sure he knows to remove it before crossing a street. Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
Students in the Chula Vista Elementary School District experience a rigorous 21st century learning environment that is rooted in effective teaching practices and high-quality instruction. We nurture every child’s imagination, intellect, and sense of inquiry. Working with stakeholders, we harness the potential of a collective intelligence rich with the imagination and creativity necessary for students to become difference makers. CVESD is frequently honored for student academic achievement, high performing schools, and quality instruction.
www.cvesd.org ¡ (619) 425-9600 12 OU R HOMETOWN • OC TOB E R 2 0 15
Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts. Older children should also wear a wristwatch and know what time to return home. Teach children their home phone number and how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone. Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll," should their clothes catch on fire. Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time and decide which adult will accompany young children while trick-or-treating.
On your Doorstep
Before Trick¯or¯Treating
at home on halloween
Plan and review with your children acceptable behavior, the route and a specific time when older children must return home. Do not permit children to bicycle, rollerblade or skateboard.
Consider fire safety when decorating.
Make sure your children know the following¯ By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.
Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where they are going.
Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects. Do not block exit doors. Keep jack-o’-lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking. Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house. Children can help design jack-o’-lanterns, but leave the carving to adults. Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community. Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.
Only trick-or-treat in well-known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.
Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic. Never cut across yards or use alleys.
Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat. Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.
Always walk. Never run across a street. Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks.
Never accept unwrapped food items or open beverages. Sort and check all treats at home. A responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items. A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
SCHOOL
/ News
New State Standards a Familiar Place for Heritage Elementary Students
Heritage Elementary School had traditionally been at the top of the Chula Vista Elementary School District academically under the former state standards. How did Heritage students fare under the new, more rigorous state standards? The data is in: Heritage is still an academic powerhouse, although the overall top spot is now claimed by Thurgood Marshall Elementary School by less than a percentage point. California updated its standards and built matching assessments to shift student learning toward more complex skills. The new online tests were administered last spring. The recently released results serve as a baseline as
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to where students are against tougher academic standards. Heritage had the highest achieving fourth grade in the District last year in English Language Arts (ELA), with 72.5 percent of students meeting or exceeding standards. Heritage fifth graders did even better, with 78.5 percent of students meeting or exceeding standards. Heritage had the second-highest performing fifth grade in the District, edged out by Marshall Elementary’s fifth grade in ELA where nearly 82 percent met or exceeded standards. Heritage’s fifth graders also finished second in the District in mathematics,
with 66 percent meeting or exceeding the standards. Liberty Elementary’s fifth grade was first, with nearly 69 percent of students meeting or exceeding standards in math. The fifth grade achievement at Heritage in both mathematics and ELA is impressive as well as a source of pride. Heritage Principal Erin Dare credited a combination of factors for her school’s consistently high performance year after year. “It is our amazing teachers who come to work each and every day, ready to teach our students,” Dare said. “We have awesome students ready to learn.
School News ˜We have awesome students ready to learn. They work really hard to achieve high levels of success. And we have outstanding parent support; the work they do inside and outside the classrooms is incredible. Those are the things that keep us at or near the top each year.˝ - Principal Erin Dare
They work really hard to achieve high levels of success. And we have outstanding parent support; the work they do inside and outside the classrooms is incredible. Those are the things that keep us at or near the top each year.” That does not mean the transition to the new state standards, and online assessments, was easy. “Transitioning has been quite a journey. Learning the new standards was a foundation that we had to establish first,” Dare said. “We learned the standards, and then infused curriculum to what we thought would support the teaching and learning of the new state standards. Honestly, we really didn’t know because there was not a road map that told us we were on the right track. So the data has been a pleasant surprise. We are happy to see that our hard work is paying off and we are thrilled with the amount of success that we’ve had with our students.”
Heritage Elementary teacher Jessica Guinn (L) and Principal Erin Dare share a moment with this year’s fifth grade students. Last year’s fifth grade students placed second in the District in both ELA and math.
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What’s
brewing in SOUTH BAY?
· B AY B R I D G E B R E W I N G ·
If you’ve lived in Chula Vista or Bonita for the past decade, and you enjoy a really good, local, craft beer, then you probably know the name Bay Bridge Brewing. If it sounds familiar it might be because you have enjoyed a pint at Pizzo’s Pizzeria and Wine Bar or at Romescos. It might even have been at the former Eastlake Brew House or at any one of the numerous local charity events supported by Bay Bridge Brewing.
One thing is for sure: it was an unforgettable experience in local brewing. Like brewing itself, the introduction of handcrafted beers in Chula Vista set off a chain reaction that has put Chula Vista and the South Bay on the map as new, up-andcoming communities for craft beer manufacturing and local points of distribution. The undisputed “godfathers” of South Bay craft brewing are Bay Bridge Brewing owners Doug Chase and Jim Shirey. They started brewing soon after becoming friends in 1996. For nearly 10 years they perfected recipes and formulas that now have become local favorites. Throughout any given year, Doug and Jim will produce as many as a dozen different styles ranging from their Bonita Blonde, a local favorite; Wolf Canyon Wheat, a 2012 San Diego International Gold Medal winner; the beloved Rolling Hills Irish Red; and the Star of India IPA (India Pale Ale). They even make a seasonal Pumpkin Ale. Earlier this year a “local publisher” suggested to Doug that he name one of their beers after the Bill of Rights, a historic schooner owned and operated by the South Bay Sailing Association. The Bill of Rights Red IPA is now their number one selling craft beer. “When we decided to jump into the brewing business, Jim had an existing lease at our original location on Anita Street. We evaluated options in San Diego, Coronado and National City. Ultimately, we elected to establish our business in Chula Vista because we felt the South Bay market was wide open,” says co-owner Doug Chase. The two applied for a business license and
were told that, according to the municipal code, brewing was not permitted in Chula Vista. Doug wrote a letter requesting a zoning variance to the Planning organization with an explanation of the brewing process, indicating it is environmentally friendly. He also outlined the benefits of having a brewery in Chula Vista, such as revenue, community pride and employment. The request for a variance was rejected. Soon thereafter, Doug and his wife met Councilman John McCann at a park clean-up event and had a chance to plead their case. The councilman was supportive, brought the issue to the Planning Commission, and with their approval brought the change to the municipal code in front of the City Council. The original Conditional Use Permit (CUP) did not allow the public into the brewery, and Doug and Jim wanted to add a tasting room to offer beers to locals, educate people about craft brewing and promote their brand. Scott Donaghe supported their case by pitching the concept of adding a tasting room to the new Zoning Administrator. Scott also worked with Planning, Building and Engineering to resolve roadblocks that popped up through the CUP and Building Permit processes. In July, Bay Bridge Brewing opened its tasting room to the public. Located at 688 Marsat Court in southwest Chula Vista, it is open on Thursday and Friday from 3 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 2 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17
· N OV O B R A Z I L B R E W I N G ·
a retired fire fighter, teacher, sales and service tech and retail manager all founded Third Avenue Alehouse.
No two beers—and no two brewers—are alike. This is the beauty of microbrews. Each style reflects a brewer’s personality and ingenuity. Craft beers can be sweet, citrusy, bitter, dark, light, hoppy, thick and even oaky. These options allow consumers to taste a seemingly infinite variety of craft beers. One local microbrewer, Novo Brazil Brewing, is taking it to a new level.
Since its launch, Third Avenue Alehouse has become a place where everyone is welcome, from the craft beer connoisseur to the happenstance customer who wants to check out the new, local business. While local craft beer is its focus, Third Avenue Alehouse also serves wine from San Diego County and hosts a variety of gourmet food trucks.
In 2009, Morise Gusmao decided to start a small microbrewery in Brazil with his family. Meanwhile, one of his partners, Miguel Carneiros, was running his own brewery in another state of Brazil and soon had about five different styles. Morise carefully assembled a group of business partners and opened Novo Brazil Brewery in May of this year. Not only did he bring experience and knowledge from Brazil, but all of his manufacturing equipment is also from Brazil.
G ROU N DSW E L L B R EW I NG · C O M PA N Y ·
Morise enjoys nothing more than to sit down, share a cold brew and talk about the art of brewing. He believes that synergy and the sharing of knowledge will help move the industry forward in Chula Vista and the South Bay. He’s proud of what he produces and points to some creative ingredients he uses, such as basil in his Golden Ale. The future of Novo Brazil Brewing is clear. Morise wants to grow and distribute not just locally, but nationally and internationally. To make that happen, he is preparing to bottle and start an aggressive distribution campaign. Novo Brazil is open Monday through Thursday from 12 to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Sunday from 12 to 9 p.m. It is located at 901 Lane Avenue at the corner of Lane and Fenton in Chula Vista.
· T H I R D AV E N U E A L E H OU S E · Third Avenue Alehouse is Chula Vista’s first craft beer tasting room and market. With 29 taps, the ability to serve a wide range of San Diego County beers allows customers to enjoy the benefits of a beer tour right in the heart of Chula Vista. Third Avenue Alehouse chose a location grounded in Chula Vista history with the expectation that its presence on Third Avenue will make the Village a destination for date nights, after-work meeting places and an enjoyable night out on the town. As the first of its kind, the vision of Third Avenue Alehouse is to set the pace for more small businesses to follow suit. This family-run business was started by long-time Chula Vista residents Stephen and Melinda Stenberg along with Michael Stenberg and Kendell Manion. The idea came to life around their weekly family dinners while discussing the need to bring a craft beer-centric business to Chula Vista. It was then that
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Naturally, there are many reasons to go into the microbrewing business. Kevin Rhodes, with Groundswell Brewing Company, has a unique approach. As a teacher of beverage at the Culinary Art Institute in Mission Valley, Kevin desires to craft full-flavored beers that easily pair well with food. He’s off to great start. With help from his new brewer Mark Lockwood, a veteran brewer of 20 years, he is taking the South Bay by storm. You can enjoy their brew at a number of local hotspots. One we all know is Caffe Tazza Coffeehouse and Bistro in Terra Nova Plaza, and soon you’ll also be able to pick up a six-pack, as they are now preparing to bottle and distribute. One unique part of their business model is that they donate a percentage of their profits to help make clean drinking water accessible to communities and villages in Third World countries. Currently Groundswell Brewing supports Project Concern International, a San Diego-based, non-governmental organization. The driving force behind Kevin is his business partner and wife, Christianne Penunuri. They have two daughters, Delaney and Regan. Kevin states, “Groundswell Brewing Company stands for three things: make great beer, make a difference in the world and our community, and make good friends and lifelong relationships.” Let’s all raise a pint to that!
· B I E R E C A F É S O U T H B AY · With a last name like Raso, knowing good food and drink is essential. The name speaks volumes for family dining and community support. It makes sense that Tony Raso, the nephew of La Bella’s owner of the same name, decided to raise the bar in Chula Vista and the South Bay by opening Biere Café Southbay, coming soon. Biere Café Southbay is a unique combination of both local and international, small-batch craft beers, old world wines and ciders from England, France and Spain. Tony knows a thing or two about them all. His knowledge and background are extensive and impressive. Beire Café Southbay plans on presenting a carefully crafted experience in brewed and fermented beverages at its opening in March 2016.
Tony, a native Chula Vistian and graduate of Hilltop High School, loves just about everything in Chula Vista, especially Third Avenue. “I remember as a child buying my shoes, shopping with my parents and eating all along Third Avenue. That’s why I made it a point to open on Third Avenue. No other place holds as many great memories, and I want everyone to discover this wonderful part of town,” Tony states with undeniable conviction. This is just one more reason why Third Avenue is the next great destination for entertainment, food and fare.
· T H E M A N H AT TA N · As we conclude this article, you’ve read examples of how the microbrew and craft beer revolution are taking off in Chula Vista and the South Bay. New breweries and new distribution points are scheduled to open soon and in the near future. For the Manhattan at 400 Broadway in Chula Vista, old is new. Opened in 1957 as a piano bar, many changes have occurred. One thing is for sure, though—It’s always been a local favorite. New owners Matt and Vanessa Cieslak became the newest curators of this local haunt in January of this year. So what’s new at the Manhattan? Well, there’s the ever-changing variety of local craft beers. For example, in most cases when a keg is emptied, it is replaced with totally different brew. This keeps things interesting. What’s old? The rustic charm, solid wood bar and the patrons from 21 to 91 years old. Matt confesses, “I love the old bones of this place.” He means the history, not the customers! Matt, a native of Michigan, seems to have more SoCal then Midwest in his blood. Even in Michigan winters he found board shorts and flip flops comfortable. He made his way to California to play volleyball and ended up working at Rough Draft Brewing Company and the Blind Lady Ale House. He and Vanessa, a local girl, decided they wanted to own their own place and found the Manhattan for sale. Today they offer 18 beers on tap and over 50 bottled beers, plus they have live music every Friday and Saturday. If you’re looking for a local, friendly and never-the-same-thing-twice hangout, then the Manhattan should be at the top of your list.
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
ON TOPIC
/ By Ashlyn O’Hara
Barley, Beer and Pig Feed In addition to the quality beer that comes out of micro brewing, some farmers are benefitting from the influx in a wholly unexpected way.
In the first stage of the brewing process, barley, a seed similar to oatmeal, must be separated from the rest of the material that will go on to be used in the beer itself. Since brewers have no use for the massive amounts of leftover barley, it was not uncommon for piles of it to sit around until they could make an arduous trip to dispose of it, often in landfills. However, in recent times, farmers have discovered a new and innovative way to repurpose the organic material, saving both the brewer an unnecessary trip, and themselves a whole lot of money. Since barley is an As soon as organic substance, farmers have discovered that it can he receives be used to make organic new barley he feed for their animals.
immediately begins a drying process, which allows him to store it for up to a year before it goes bad.
Russ Van Cleve is one such farmer. Van Cleve noted that the previous way of dealing with the surplus of barley was a lose-lose situation; brewers had to go to a landfill to dispose of it, and farmers like him had to spend much more money on bagged feed. However, barley is an innately wet material, and after only one week, it can start to grow moldy. Van Cleve has remedied that. As soon as he receives new barley he immediately begins a drying process, which allows him to store it for up to a year before it goes bad. Although he almost always uses the barley within the week he gets it, knowing that it can be put away for later use is no doubt a reassuring thought. Repurposing barley has become a household commonplace for the Van Cleve family. In addition to using it to feed their animals, Russ’ wife, Deb, has also been using it to make dog biscuits. Typically in the wintertime, Deb mixes the barley with peanut butter and then bakes it for their dogs. Turns out that barley benefits both humans and animals.
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OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
OUT & ABOUT
OCTOBER 08
CHULA VISTA CHAMBER MIXER
@ 5:30–7:30 p.m. Mix, mingle and meet future business partners. $10 for members and $20 for non-members. Hosted by First Bank, 2314 Proctor Valley in Chula Vista. For more info or to RSVP, call (619) 420-6603 or email info@chulavistachamber.org.
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MARIACHI OKTOBERFIESTA PRESENTED BY SEVEN MILE CASINO @ 4 – 7 p.m. @ Salt Creek Recreation Center, 2710 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. A fun-filled fusion of international food, music and culture. Sample delicious bites, tequila, beer and wine. Tickets $50. 21+ event. Purchase online at oktoberfiesta. brownpapertickets.com.
10-11
SWING INTO THE LIBRARY @ 2 – 5 p.m.
@ the Hub community room at Otay Ranch Town Center, 2015 Birch Road, in the Food Pavilion. Learn to swing dance or just relax and enjoy music of the Downbeat Big Band, a 17-piece San Diego band. Dance instructors Jack and Carolann Eskridge will lead a free, 45-minute class in East Coast swing.
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NAVIGATING THE INSANITY OF CAREGIVING @ 9:30
a.m. – 1 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Plaza, 1420 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Event is free and includes lunch, resource booths, educational presentations and opportunity prizes. Presented by the Caregiving Coalition of San Diego with keynote speaker Kristen Cusato, KUSI TV and caregiver. Register by Oct. 21 at www.sharp.com/ classes or 1 (800) 827-4277.
24-25
BONITA HOLIDAYS CRAFT FAIR AND HOME TOUR @ 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. @ Sweetwater Woman’s Club, 3855 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. The free event includes a farmers’ market and garden shop. For $15, tour three unique Bonita homes. Proceeds go to local charities. Visit sweetwaterwomansclub.org for more info.
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HOWL-A-WEEN YAPPY HOUR @ 5 – 8
p.m. @ Savoie Eatery, 2015 Birch Road, Suite 720 in Chula Vista. A dog costume contest and prizes, special giveaways and adoptable pups will be available. Enjoy free treats and refreshments for pooches and $3 off appetizers, $5 glasses of wine and $6 craft beers for their human companions. The event will benefit the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility.
OPTIMISTS BOOK SALE
@ 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. @ Bonita Museum, 4355 Bonita Road in Bonita.
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18
MOVIE BUFF EVENT
@ 2 – 4 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Plaza, 1420 East Palomar Street in Otay Ranch. Meet Jimmy Lydon, actor/director, and enjoy entertainment and refreshments. Call (619) 591-0600 to RSVP.
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DANCE FOR YOUR HEALTH @ 6 – 9 p.m. @
Loma Verde Rec Center, 1420 Loma Lane in Chula Vista. This is a free event to promote fitness through dancing (costume optional). Live music is with Manny Cepeda and appetizers are by Executive Chef Ralph Ford. Donate a non-expired canned or packaged food to support the San Diego Food Bank. For more info, call (877) 926-8300.
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FREE TRICK OR TREAT @ 3 – 5 p.m. @
Village Walk, Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista. Free treats for all children 12 and under dressed in costume and accompanied by an adult. Pick up your free trick-or-treat bag located at Mission Federal. Participating stores will display bright orange pumpkins in store windows. Visit www.ShopVillageWalk.com.
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
NOV SAVE THE DATE(S)
7 | The Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary Bonita Unit will offer silent and live auctions at its fall fundraiser and luncheon. This year’s event, held at Paradise Point Resort in San Diego, will provide funds designated for the palliative/supportive care department. For information, contact Sherry Beckhart at (619) 475-3736 or beckhart. sherry@gmail.com.
EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Eastlake Tavern & Bowl, Eastlake; 11:30 a.m.1 p.m.; www.eastlakebusiness.org. FARMER’S MARKET Thursdays @ Third Avenue Village Association (Third Ave. & Center St.); 3-7 p.m.
KIDS READY TO READ Interactive storytime program Thursdays @ Otay Ranch Branch Library; 11:15 a.m.; chulavistalibrary.com.
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OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 23
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
GLEN ABBEY MEMORIAL PARK & MORTUARY
LORI STARR GRAPHIC DESIGN & DON BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY
There can be no greater compliment than to know that another person has placed his complete trust in your hands. This statement is the best way the staff at Glen Abbey Memorial Park & Mortuary feel when a family walks through their doors.
Don Brown and Lori Starr met at karaoke 18 years ago and have been making advertising “sing” ever since. Combining Lori’s graphic design and background as an art director with Don’s photography, they create unique, one-of-a-kind looks for their clients’ specific advertising and graphic design needs.
Glen Abbey specializes in listening and highlighting the rich, cultural diversity that comprises our community. The staff are truly humbled and honored by the kindness a family shows them when they allow them to assist at their time of great loss and need.
Lori Starr has worked as a professional graphic designer since 1985. After working as an ad designer at The Daily Californian for eight months, she worked at the San Diego Union Tribune in Creative Services advertising for eight years. She has also worked for several advertising agencies throughout San Diego. Her passion is branding, i.e. bringing together a constant and distinctive look and style to a business. Creativity and organization are her strengths. She is resourceful at problem solving and maximizing resources and strives to generate above and beyond what is expected, while taking pride in achieving maximum results.
Glen Abbey has provided funeral and cremation services to the Bonita, South Bay and greater San Diego area for more than 90 years. All of its services are designed to help families through one of the most personal and challenging stages of life. Its exclusive services include bilingual personnel, hospitality rooms, transfers to the country of origin, extended visitation hours, in-home visitation and family rooms. The staff understand losing a loved one is an emotional and difficult experience, and they are committed to helping families with compassionate, professional and personal service. Glen Abbey prides itself on being active in the community by partnering with churches and community organizations to accomplish common goals. Its mission is to provide and deliver quality funeral products and services that appeal to the eyes, ears and hearts of the community. The staff of Glen Abbey commit to accomplish this by recognizing, understanding and embracing cultural diversity and uniqueness. http://www.dignitymemorial.com/glen-abbey-mortuary/
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Don Brown was a football and track star at Claremont High School. He attended Mesa College for two years where he played football. He then worked at UPS as a driver for 27 years before retiring in 2011. A few years before retiring, he began learning as much as he could about photography. He has taken professional photos of subjects ranging from maternity portraits to small weddings and sporting events. He learns something new every day and applies that knowledge to his photos, making them first rate. He says that’s the difference between taking a snapshot and a photo. Together they like to hike, travel, camp, sing karaoke and work out at kettlebell class. Lori loves gardening and all things creative, including cooking, interior decorating, home staging and organizing. Don loves to play golf and keeps busy in the yard. www.facebook.com/lori-starr-graphic-design or www.facebook.com/DonBrownPhotography
GET THE PARTY STARTED! Rock Pop Latin R&B Swing Retro Country Contemporary Jazz
DJ Sound Express Entertainer • Emcee • Saxophonist
For bookings contact: Aaron Valencia 619-247-8422 www.djsoundexpress.com www.breezn.com • saxman3@cox.net
Family services
Personalized, one-on-one speech therapy services in the comfort of your own home. research-based bilingual therapy for children and adults. Private pay only. letitia a. stanton-aicher ms, ccc-slP
(855) 619-6191 www.LSABT.com
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RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Barbara Legg
Thank goodness for Barbara Legg! As the EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF)’s current board president, Barbara spends many hours every week volunteering her time to make sure the children in EastLake have the best education possible. She is passionate about technology and making sure that children have it readily available so that each student is given the opportunity to strive in our highly competitive, technological world. She is a key component to the EEF giving approximately $120,000 each year to the EastLake schools since 1995. Barbara spent a large portion of her childhood on the East Coast but graduated from Coronado High School as a California girl. She later became one of the first EastLake residents and still resides there with her husband of 22 years. They raised their two children, Austin and Breanna, in EastLake.
Breakfast with the Bunny, an annual garage sale and the 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, to name a few.
She is passionate about technology and making sure that children have it readily available so that each student is given the opportunity to strive in our
While on the Annual EastLake HOA Price is Right trip in 2000, Barbara not only won a car, but also the entire Showcase Showdown! The showcase had a bedroom set, pair of skis and a snowmobile. (She sold that to an attorney in Arizona. Go figure!) In 1994 after noticing budget cuts from the state to our schools, which her children attended, Barbara approached EastLake Company about starting an educational foundation to help students stay above the curve. In 1995 the EastLake Educational Foundation was born. Barbara is proud to be a founding member of this important cause, and the community is thankful for her leadership.
In 2003 Barbara became a real estate agent and now helps buyers and sellers in EastLake and beyond technological world. Barbara fully immersed herself in the community with their real estate needs. She loves helping when she worked at EastLake Company’s Welcome people in her community and neighborhood. She Center from 1990 to 1997, showing off the EastLake believes living here and being involved give community to potential residents. She later worked her an added advantage. Barbara is a realtor for for the EastLake I Community Association as the Recreation Manalo Realty in EastLake, at www.BarbaraLegg.com. She also Director from 1997 to 2003, where she implemented annual serves as secretary on the EastLake I Community Association events such as Breakfast with Santa, Price is Right trip, craft fair, board of directors. 26 O U R HOMETOWN • OC TOBE R 2 0 15
highly competitive,