C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
FREE
FEBRUARY 2016
ţovŐ IN THE NAME OF
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: LOLITA'S RESTAURANTS, INC. + LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT: CHULA VISTA PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION
CONTENTS/
14 in the name of love
F E B R U A RY 2 01 6
EDITOR'S LETTER
04 BRAVO
I love listening to Louis Armstrong sing “What a Wonderful World.” I’m able to visualize the trees of green, red roses, skies of blue and clouds of white about which the grizzly, kind voice sings. My favorite lines are, “I see friends shaking hands, saying, ‘How do you do?’ / They’re really saying, ‘I love you.’”
Announcements
I like this part of the song because it shows that actions speak louder than words—that love is something that’s not always said, but often felt.
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
14 FEATURE In the Name of Love
This month, many Americans will celebrate Valentine’s Day. For some, this means a romantic date night. For others, it means loneliness. And for some, the day will be no different than any other day. Our feature story, titled “In the Name of Love,” takes a look at some of the ways our community members show love to others. I challenge you this month to ask yourself how you can display love—to your spouse or partner, to your children, to your friends or coworkers, and even to those you do not like. I didn’t say this would be easy. Encouraging others (especially if you are discouraged) or offering a kindness (especially if you have not been treated kindly) can be hard to do. Give it a try, and email me at editor@ ourhometownmag.com to share how it felt or what came of it. This Valentine’s Day, let those you love know it, by words or deeds. Send a valentine not only to your spouse or partner, but also to someone else you care about. It will probably make that person’s day a great one.
—AMBER WEBER, editor
21 SCHOOL NEWS School Board Recognizes Students Who Achieved Highest Score Possible
22 CALENDAR Out & About
24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT Lolita's Restaurants, Inc.
26 LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT Chula Vista Public Library Foundation
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3
BRAVO
great things happening in our community
› To TAE-HO AHN, who was selected as one of 24 contestants to compete on the popular kids’ cooking show, Masterchef Junior, hosted by famous Chef Gordan Ramsay. Tae-Ho can be seen on this season’s Masterchef Junior promotion sitting on top of Gordan Ramsay's shoulders holding a dessert. In the kitchen, he instantly caught the judges’ attention by winning the first cooking challenge with scallops. He was also part of two winning team challenges. A 13-year old resident of Chula Vista and 1st degree recommended Black Belt and Junior Assistant Instructor at his parents’ studio, Pride Martial Arts, Tae-Ho says his marital arts and leadership training
helped him in the competition. He explains, "thing were really stressful and my training helped me stay focused, not get intimidated and to be able to believe in myself and perform under pressure.” Tae-Ho hopes to be the host of his own restaurant review show one day. For now, he is working on his television personality, as he guest appears twice a month on San Diego’s CW6 morning news.
› To the SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE (SWC) POLICY DEBATE TEAMS for their win at the Robert Barbera Invitational Speech and Debate Tournament at California State University, Northridge.
The November 2015 competition featured two, two-person teams from each participating college or university. SWC’s teams included Daniel Smiley, Francesca Beaird, Priscilla Romero and Jorge del Castillo. Up next is a tournament at UC Berkeley, followed by one at USC.
› To the winners of the 2015 STARLIGHT PARADE AWARDS. Over 150 parade entries marched down Third Avenue on Saturday, December 5, showing their community spirit and engaging the crowd. Presented at the January 12 City Council meeting, the 2015 Starlight Parade Award winners are:
Left: Masterchef Junior contestant Tao-Ho Ahn Below: SWC Policy Debate Team Winners Right: Decorated Car Club at the Starlight Parade
4 O U R H OMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 16
SEND US YOUR GOOD NEWS! Email editor@ourhometownmag.com
PUBLISHED BY:
prior to the 5th of the month and we will do our best to put the good news in an upcoming issue.
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
• Best Starlight Spirit: Parade Announcer Michael Monaco • 1st Place Best Marching Band: Olympian High School Eagle Marching Band • 2nd Place Best Marching Band: Samuel F.B. Morse High School Marching Band • 3rd Place Best Marching Band: Sweetwater High School with National City Middle School Marching Band • Best Representation of a Holiday Theme: Otay Apostolic Church • Most Creative: Troop 151 and Pack 151 • Best Use of Lights: Raza Car Club • Best Community Entry: Sweetwater Valley Little League World Series West All Stars • Best Car Club: Lowrider Community of San Diego
• Most Enthusiastic Group/ Entry: Chula Vista Elementary School District Safety Patrol • Best Military Entry: Marine Corps League Detachment 1207 Many thanks to all of the entries that participated in the parade. Festive floats, school bands and dance performances all entertained the crowd and helped make the evening magical for all. Save the date for the 2016 Starlight Parade, scheduled for Saturday, December 3.
AMBER WEBER, Editor
MELISSA MONROY, Design
For more information, visit www.StarlightParade.com.
ASHLYN O'HARA, Intern
ALEXIS HERNANDEZ, Intern
Send advertising inquiries to Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com. Send editorial contributions to Amber Weber at Editor@OurHometownMag.com. Visit us online at www.OurHometownMag.com. 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
Chula Vista Library Opens Heritage Museum WITH CENTENNIAL FLOOD EXHIBIT
Following an unprecedented amount of rain in the South Bay in early 1916, the Lower Otay Reservoir burst on January 27 at 5:05 p.m., sending a colossal wall of water all the way to the bay. The Chula Vista Public Library commemorated the centennial of the Great Flood of 1916, the worst natural disaster in the region’s history, with the grand opening of the Chula Vista Heritage Museum in its new home in the Civic Center Library on January 27 at exactly 5:05 p.m. The ceremony began with a talk about the disaster by Dr. Steven Schoenherr, president of the museum board and the South Bay Historical Society. After a four-year drought, infamous rainmaker Charles Hatfield was brought in to the area as a last resort in early 1916. Hatfield sent chemicals into the air near the Morena Reservoir on New Year’s Day 1916. The rains came, and Hatfield was blamed for
6 OU R H OMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 16
the disaster. However, the deluge was more likely the result of several Pacific storms that converged on San Diego, causing a massive amount of rain to fall during the last two weeks of January, more than has ever been recorded for two weeks in the South Bay. Every river canyon in the county flooded, and every bridge was destroyed. When the Lower Otay Reservoir broke, a wall of water flooded the valley, causing deaths and the destruction of homes, buildings and hundreds of farms. The Sweetwater dam had also given way, sweeping a torrent of water into the valley, breaking the water pipes, and leaving the South Bay without drinking water for three weeks. A remarkable number of photographs were taken during the disaster, many of them collected by the South Bay Historical Society.
On your Doorstep
City Prepares for El Niño
The inaugural exhibit details the calamity and subsequent reconstruction with more than 100 photos of the flooding plus artifacts and first-person accounts collected by the South Bay Historical Society. The Heritage Museum recently relocated from its site on Third Avenue to a space in the northwest area of the Civic Center Library, thanks to funding from the City of Chula Vista and the Chula Vista Library Foundation.
The museum is supported by the Heritage Museum Board, a chapter of the Friends of the Chula Vista Library. The museum will be open seven days a week during the open hours of the library.
The City of Chula Vista has been actively preparing for El Niño and its potential effects for many months. On January 11, the City hosted an El Niño community forum for residents. Speakers from the City’s Fire, Police and Public Works Departments plus a guest speaker from the National Weather Service provided insightful information and helpful advice. Chula Vista residents can receive up to 10 sandbags by visiting the John L. Lippitt Public Works Center at 1800 Maxwell Road (off Main Street). The sandbag distribution area is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. In addition, effective February 1, four fire stations will be sandbag distribution centers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Proof of residency, such as a current utility bill, is required at all distribution centers.
• • • •
Station 1: Station 4: Station 5: Station 7:
447 F Street 850 Paseo Ranchero 391 Oxford Street 1640 Santa Venetia
To watch a video of the community forum and access specific tips on how to prepare for an El Niño, visit www.chulavistaca.gov/residents/ el-nino. The California State Department of Insurance reminds homeowners that flood damage is not covered by traditional homeowners insurance. Flood insurance is only available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and there is a 30-day waiting period before the policy is effective.
Californians living in areas with any risk of flooding are advised to purchase flood insurance through the NFIP. Go to www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/ to learn more.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 7
On your Doorstep
For Those who Love Mariachi Music By Susana Villegas
The National City Tourism Marketing District, the National City Chamber of Commerce, the University of San Diego (USD), Mariachi Juvenil de San Diego and the Mariachi Scholarship Foundation invite you to the National City Mariachi Festival & Competition. The event offers mariachi students two days of comprehensive workshops at USD on March 11 and 12, which include instruction from some of mariachi’s most renowned artists. Students may participate in a mariachi competition at Pepper Park in National City on the third day of the program. Enrollment is open to the public and ends February 19. The mariachi competition is an opportunity for student mariachis to get exposure in front of an audience to showcase their talents, learned skills and passion for mariachi music. Students will have an opportunity to win cash prizes to use towards instruments, mariachi outfits and travel expenses.
Enrollment is open to the public and ends February 19
The workshops are organized by Serafin Paredes, founder of Mariachi Juvenil de San Diego, the first non-profit mariachi organization in the San Diego area. The organization’s mission is to encourage students to attend a four-year university and pursue a career in music.
Classes cover instruction in guitarrón, guitar, trumpet, violin, vihuela, harp and voice. Four levels of workshops are available: Level I, II, III and Master. After two days of study, students have a chance to walk on stage and perform for family and friends at the Student Showcase Concert held at USD. They could also be invited to play with the masters at the Mariachi Festival & Competition Concert at Pepper Park on March 13.
Members of the community are invited to enroll in the workshops at mariachifest.com/mariachi−workshops/ or call (619) 477−9339. For more information, visit www.mariachifest.com.
8 OU R H OMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 16
On your Doorstep
Free Six-Week Computer Class for Seniors Offered
Seniors, do you feel technology has passed you by? Does the digital divide feel like the Grand Canyon? Data from the Pew Research Center show that 41% of adults ages 65 and older don’t use a computer. Most “offline” seniors say they would need help if they were to go online. The top motivations are to maintain connections with family and friends, shop and find health information. Within today’s libraries, many processes and services are digitized and online, giving patrons access to a world of information. The Chula Vista Public Library and the San Diego Futures Foundation have partnered to offer a free sixweek series of classes for those 62 years and older at the Civic Center Library, 365 F Street. The classes will be held Mondays and Wednesdays from January 25 through March 2, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Senior tech ambassadors will lead each class, teaching basic computer skills such as keyboard and mouse functions, safe Internet browsing and keyword searches, creating and managing files, and social media. Space is limited; to reserve a spot, call (619) 269-1684, ex. 213, or visit www.sdfutures.org/ programs/digital-literacy-for-62.
The San Diego Futures Foundation is a nonprofit agency established to bridge the digital divide in San Diego. As part of its mission, the foundation increases access to technology for seniors, low-income households and people with disabilities.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Sleeping Bags Aid Homeless This Winter
The Sister Dolores Social Outreach Program, run out of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Parish at 3rd and H Street, is currently operating under full “winter mode.” Year round it provides emergency food assistance, clothing and miscellaneous commodities to Chula Vista residents and the area homeless. This time of year, however, the extra challenge of also trying to keep clients warm and dry exists. After appealing to regular donors with a list of much needed items, including beanie caps, gloves and blankets, the program was blessed with an offer from a benefactor out of Del Mar to try and provide 100 sleeping bags for the Chula Vista homeless population. He opened an online crowd funding drive, allowing people far and wide to donate $20 to pay for a sleeping bag. Individuals both familiar and unfamiliar with the program were motivated, knowing that just $20 could save a person from freezing to death. Some were even able to provide more than one sleeping bag. In the end, with Christmas taking up most peoples’ disposable income, the drive only provided enough funds for 42 sleeping bags. Please consider To the gratitude of all, the benefactor agreed to pay for donating new the additional 58 himself, men´s and and they were delivered on January 14. women´s socks,
blankets and personal hygiene items.
100 homeless men and women will be a little more comfortable this winter with the new sleeping bags, but much more is still needed. If you would like to help the Sister Dolores Social Outreach Program, please consider donating new men’s and women’s socks, blankets and personal hygiene items. Especially needed this wet winter are rolls of Visqueen (to be cut and distributed to use as protection against the cold and rain) and thick rain ponchos.
Call Rosa Vasquez at (619) 427-0230 ex. 108 for more information or to volunteer. 10 O U R HOMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 16
On your Doorstep
New Business Offers Affordable Services to Entrepreneurs and Startups
Privateer Lounge Innovation Center (PLiC) is a coworking space and incubator for tech entrepreneurs, professionals and startups. Located in Chula Vista, this “entrepreneur hub” is dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs and fostering the tech startup ecosystem in San Diego County, particularly the South Bay and the greater binational region. PLiC opened in June 2015 and hosts a variety of activities. These include a weekly “How to Start a Startup” lecture series, tech coffee meetups and entrepreneur happy hours, a biweekly coworking “jelly” where freelancers, home workers and small business owners can connect, share ideas and socialize. Cashflow game playing and flying drones together are two of many other ways to connect with PLiC’s users. PLiC provides tech startups a basic coworking or maker space, has low overhead and passes on the savings so “bootstrappers” can use their limited resources wisely. In particular, for a monthly membership of $125, entrepreneurs just starting out get open coworking space (unassigned seating), business-class Internet, spacious desks with comfortable chairs and free parking. In addition, membership includes access to the maker space and fenced outdoor area, projector, printer, coffee, refrigerator and microwave. Also, since networking (both internal and external) is a crucial aspect of a coworking space for tech startups, PLiC offers venue space to members for free events or meetups, and to the public when available. No equity in members' businesses is requested.
PLiC is conveniently located across from the landmark South Bay Saltworks off Highway 5 at Palomar. For more information, visit privateerlounge.com.
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 OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
On your Doorstep
Community Rowing of San Diego Expands Youth Program
City’s Asset Management Program Prioritizes Resources
Community Rowing of San Diego (CRSD), a leading promoter and developer of scholastic rowing in San Diego, is expanding its programs to middle and high school students throughout San Diego. The program will be led by David Frost, who is President of CRSD, a former crew captain at the Naval Academy and an avid master rower, and Art Sloate, who is the head coach of Cathedral Catholic High School’s men’s and women’s rowing teams, a certified Master Instructor and Outreach Director for this program.
The City of Chula Vista is coordinating an Asset Management Program that will provide the foundation for developing a fiscally sustainable infrastructure system/ management strategy. A critical step in this process is to engage the community on needs and to build broad consensus around The Asset Management Program priorities. The Asset includes an assessment of the current Management Program quality of vital infrastructure systems. Advisory Committee Throughout Chula Vista, each of us (AMPAC) has been relies on many of these critical systems convened; a public every day for safe and healthy living: opinion survey has been conducted; and GHD, an Our water system, including engineering, architecture wastewater and drainage and environmental consulting company, has The quality of neighborhood streets begun an inventory and and roads assessment of the City’s infrastructure assets. Critical safety infrastructure, including street lights, signs, bridges The assessment is a critical and signals step to assist the City in Neighborhood sidewalks, curbs and prioritizing the allocation gutters of limited resources for the maintenance and Parks and open space replacement of the City's infrastructure. It also is Lighting and fencing in public places important to engage the community on needs and Our libraries and the Heritage build broad consensus Museum around a solution. The Pools and recreation centers consultants are analyzing the building, parks, Police, fire and other service vehicles drainage, roadway and urban forestry systems. Condition assessments already have been completed for the wastewater management system and for the pavement portion of the roadway management system.
CRSD’s expansion is due in part from a $5,000 grant by the LA84 Foundation to go toward capital needs such as a trailer and three, new ergometers. “This generous grant from LA84 allows our organization to implement a strategy for an ‘away game’ that will bring rowing to the schools in the form of new, stateof-the-art rowing machines (‘ergs’). This strategy overcomes the logistical problem of transporting the kids to the water. We hope to raise awareness of this pure mind/ body, non-contact sport as an alternative athletic endeavor for these student athletes who have never been exposed to this sport,” said David. “We also hope to generate excitement within the community from school administration, athletic departments to the students and their families. We…expect that we will be able to touch over 1000 school-aged kids in the first year alone. Many thanks to the LA84 Foundation, and its board of directors who believe that rowing can be a life-changing activity.”
For more information, visit www.CommunityRowingSD.org.
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For more information and to add your voice to the assessment, please visit www.chulavistaca.gov/departments/public-works/assetmanagement.
On your Doorstep
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OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
in the name of love
14 OU R HOMETOWN • F EBRU A R Y 2 0 16
k
Love comes in many forms. We can express love for others by choosing to be kind to them, treating them as we would like them to treat us, even if we don’t know or “like” them. We can also express platonic love to those we do like, providing friendship. Additionally, we can show unconditional love to our families or best friends. Finally, there’s romantic love, which offers emotional highs. Each type of love is exhibited over and over again, every day. Here are just a few examples of how people in our community have shown love to others.
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 15
in the name of love
16 OU R HOMETOWN • F EBRU A R Y 2 0 16
k Michele Padilla
k Kara Teschner
and Janet Ford
Acts of love can sometimes occur from discouraging circumstances. For Michele Padilla, the desire to give back stemmed from an uncomfortable situation that hit close to home. One day, while browsing on Facebook, Michele came across a picture of a homeless person coupled with a cynical remark about his lifestyle. Appalled at the stream of cruel comments that followed, Michele knew from personal experience that the situation wasn’t as clear-cut as people were making it out to be. Having struggled before to help her brother through mental health issues that prevented him from eluding homelessness, Michele saw an opportunity to turn a disheartening Facebook thread into something positive. Citing the profusion of homeless people in Chula Vista as well as her close friend Janet Ford, who regularly worked to help those in need, Michele started a group called Helping Hands in hopes of making life for the homeless a little less adverse. Knowledgeable of the fact that many people were uncomfortable giving money to strangers, Helping Hands assembled nearly 200 “Blessing Bags” filled with things like toiletries, socks and water, designed to be kept in a car and to be given out as needed. Receiving all the supplies via donations, Michele proudly reflects that the people who comprise Helping Hands do so because of an unadorned desire to give. Though relatively new to the Eastlake community, Michele, along with Janet, have found generous resolve in Helping Hands and the group of people that make it all possible.
Kara Teschner is also noted for her love of others. What started as a search for friendly mothers like herself eventually evolved into a web of connections that would serve to unite an entire community of women. While spending the day at Heritage Park, Kara was elated to meet another mom who shared her amiable spirit. Eager to establish relations with other women in the Chula Vista area, Kara soon formed a morning walking group that snowballed into a Facebook community she has now managed for almost ten years. Called the Chula Vista East Mom’s Group, the cyber hub boasts over 1,500 members and is geared toward providing support for mothers in need. From donating baby gear to setting up play dates to promoting local businesses, the group is resourceful in almost every way. As a high school counselor for the San Diego Unified School District, Kara recognized a common necessity among teenage mothers for things like car seats and umbrella strollers that would allow the young moms to safely transport their children. With the Chula Vista East Mom’s Group at hand, Kara appealed to more than 1,000 women who readily answered the demand by donating their gently used equipment. Following that success, Kara was also able to use the Facebook group to donate to Silent Voices, a local Chula Vista organization supporting pregnant women in need. By providing a platform for the mothers in her area, Kara was able to foster a sense of familiarity among strangers.
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OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17
k Maria and Ronald Barker Maria and Ronald Barker found true love in their golden years. Maria A. Chavarria Barker was born in November 1950 in a small town outside of Mexico City. She moved to San Diego in 1978, working as a babysitter until she had a son in 1988. Maria devotedly assisted her mother throughout her life until 2012, when she passed away from cancer. After losing her mother, Maria felt alone and depressed. In 2013 she decided to join PACE, looking for a place to meet and befriend new people while getting help for chronic medical conditions. She got more out of PACE than she was expecting: she met Ronald Barker, her future husband! Ronald Barker was born in Columbus, Ohio in 1942, one of 14 children and one of two sets of twins. He was raised in West Virginia until his father was offered a job in San Diego in 1950. Ronald’s professional work consisted of making helicopters for the Vietnam War for Howard Hughes’ company and working in hospitals in the Orthopedic Department, assembling tractions for the doctors. Ronald retired early in 2002 due to medical and health issues and has been widowed twice. Ronald has two daughters, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. In January 2015, Ronald decided to join PACE in search of a new medical plan and met Maria, his soon-to-be wife. As participants of St. Paul’s PACE, Maria and Ronald receive allinclusive care such as doctors, therapists, medical specialists, medication management, day center and activities, home care, meals and even transportation. The couple is known as “love birds” by the staff. With a proposal of marriage from Ronald and a “yes” from Maria, the staff at St. Paul’s PACE set forth to provide a memorable wedding celebration for this couple. Staff provided the wedding dress, a suit for Ronald, decorations and flowers. In October 2015, St. Paul’s PACE provided refreshments, and Rev. Lisa L. McCullough officiated the marriage service. Staff members did Maria’s hair and make-up for the happy occasion. Katrina Soto, St. Paul’s PACE Day Center Supervisor said, “This is Maria’s first marriage and we wanted to make it extra special for her. Our participants are very low income so the idea of a special dress and flowers were beyond their ability. Here at St. Paul’s we just couldn’t let that happen, so we worked together to make this a very special occasion.” This love story isn’t just about Maria and Ronald. Their wedding was made richer by acts of love that PACE employees showed their residents. May all that we do be done in love. 18 O U R HOMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 16
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
20 O U R HOMETOWN • F EBRU A R Y 2 0 16
SCHOOL SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNIZES Students Who Achieved Highest Score Possible
California’s new Assessment of Student Performance and Progress is now computer-based for English language arts and mathematics, replacing former paperbased tests for these subjects. The new exams are based on California’s new, more challenging academic standards, which are designed to help all students graduate ready for college and to pursue a career. Simply put, the new tests are harder than the previous exams. However, for a significant number of Kenna Morgan, now in students in the Chula Vista Elementary sixth grade, achieved School District, the hard a trifecta. She work in mastering the new standards paid off.
Sixth-grade student Kenna Morgan receives a Certificate of Recognition for her high state scores.
received the highest
In 2015, 155 students districtwide attained the highest score English language arts, possible in English language arts, and mathematics and science 116 in mathematics. Thirty-three students during testing when she achieved the highest was a fifth grader. score possible in both subjects. Additionally, 11 students in fifth grade and five students in eighth grade received the highest score possible of 600 in science. (Science, technically speaking, is still a part of the former testing system).
score possible in
Kenna Morgan, now in sixth grade, achieved a trifecta. She received the highest score possible in English language arts, mathematics and science during testing when she was a fifth grader. The Board recently presented Certificates of Recognition to Kenna and the other students who achieved the highest score possible in both subjects.
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
OUT & ABOUT
februarƐ
11
LOVE YOUR HEART DAY @
3 – 6 p.m. Support your local middle school and take control of your own heart health at a free blood pressure screening. The school with the most blood pressure screenings will be honored by the City of Chula Vista with a Golden Apple Health Award! For info or to find locations, visit www.livewellsd.org/ love-your-heart/.
12
USED BOOK SALE
@ 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Civic Center Public Library, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. The Friends of the Chula Vista Public Library will be hosting their bi-monthly used book sale in the lobby of the Civic Center Library. The hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Enjoy the best prices on books, videos and more. Prices range from 10 cents to $1.00.
13
VALENTINE’S TEA
Hosted by Chula Vista Ballet @ 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. @ Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy, 870 Jetty Lane in Chula Vista. Ticket costs $15. For more info, contact (619) 585-1133, chulavistaballet@ gmail.com or visit www. chulavistaballet.org.
22 O U R HOMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 16
14 VALENTINE'S DAY
15 PRESIDENT'S DAY
19
CHULA VISTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INSTALLATION DINNER & DANCE @ 6 - 11 p.m. @ Bonita Golf Club, 5540 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. Congratulate former officers and welcome in officers and board members for 2016. RSVP on or prior to Friday, February 5. For more info, email info@ chulavistachamber.org or call (619) 420-6603.
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CHULA VISTA CLEAN BUSINESS HONORARY BREAKFAST @ 7 – 9 a.m. @ San Diego Country Club, 88 L Street in Chula Vista. Learn about new offerings and benefits, network with fellow CLEAN business owners and celebrate those who have made a difference in Chula Vista. RSVP by Friday, February 16. For more info, call (619) 409-1975 or email clean@ chulavistaca.gov.
MARCH SAVE THE DATE
EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Eastlake Tavern & Bowl, Eastlake; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; 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. EASTLAKE FOOD TRUCK GATHERING Wednesdays @ Eastlake Design District; 5:30-8:30 p.m..
10 | THE TASTE OF THIRD @ 4 - 8 p.m. Stroll the Village tasting petite portions from a variety of eateries along Third Avenue. Taste the best of what Chula Vista's original neighborhood has to offer.
19 | ARENA/INDOOR YOUTH SOCCER for ages 6-14 is taking registration for the Spring Soccer League until February 18. The coed league will play on Saturdays from March 19-May 21. The fee is $75 for residents and $94 for non-residents.
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
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2325 Proctor Valley Road, Chula Vista, CA 91914 | www.chulavistaseniorliving.com | (619) 271-4385 | Lic # 374603509
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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT Upon entering any Lolita’s establishment, customers are introduced to the quote, “Patience is the essence of fine Mexican food.” For most who grew up in Chula Vista, this quote has surrounded them. For decades they have read this quote on various items—from floor mats and receipts at the original Lolita’s Taco Shop, to senior quotes in local high school yearbooks—and now, a popular hash-tag on all social media platforms. To most San Diegans, “Patience is the essence of fine Mexican food” is just a tagline of the South Bay staple, but to Joaquin and Dolores “Lolita” Farfan, this quote is a lifestyle that has been built on infinite hours of manual labor, sleepless nights and dedication. Lolita, the oldest of 13, migrated to the United States in the 1950s and quickly entered the work field at the young age of 11. During hot summer days, Lolita would travel from San Diego to Sonoma County where she would harvest crops with her father. It was on one of these road trips that Lolita found a piece of waxed paper where her father had written, “Ando cansado, pero me vale,” simply meaning, “I am tired, but oh well.” It was these five words that changed Lolita’s mentality and work ethic forever. Joaquin grew up in a house full of chefs. His father worked at many restaurants throughout his career. For this reason, it was no surprise that Joaquin followed his father’s footsteps and began working in the restaurant industry during his adolescence. Outside of the restaurant, Joaquin further explored his skills in the kitchen alongside his mother, who was a terrific home cook. Through the knowledge Joaquin obtained both inside kitchen restaurants and at home, he honed his skills on how to blend the spices and sauces that customers eat every day at Lolita’s. After harvesting crops for more than a decade, Lolita’s father saved enough money to open a tortilla shop in San Ysidro where both Joaquin and Lolita worked. It was here where Joaquin and Lolita began to learn the ins and outs of the Mexican food industry. Fast forward to Friday, January 13, 1984. With over 50 combined years of Mexican food industry knowledge, Lolita’s Taco Shop was born. Serving your every-day taco shop menu, Joaquin created a mouth-watering carne asada recipe that caught the taste buds of Chula Vista. Always made fresh to order, with the freshest ingredients, the food separates Lolita’s Taco Shop from others. Returning customers and word of mouth led to the success and growth of the restaurant. With the ensuing years, two more Lolita’s Taco Shop locations were opened.
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In 2001, Lolita’s Taco Shop incorporated to Lolita’s Restaurants, Inc. At the time of incorporating, both Joaquin and Lolita had faith that their work ethic had been passed on to their children; now, steering the future of Lolita’s Restaurants, Inc. all six children have jumped on board to help run the family business. But, until this day, from sunup to sundown, you will still find Joaquin’s gold Chevy parked in front of the original Lolita’s on Telegraph Canyon Road. Lolita herself, always behind the scene, continues to work alongside her daughter, Dolores C. Jackson, who is now president of Lolita’s Restaurants, Inc. Undeniably changing the taco shop industry, Joaquin and Lolita have turned your hole-in-the-wall taco shop into a fast-casual dining experience. And now, 32 years later, Lolita’s Restaurants, Inc. has opened the doors to Lolita’s Mexican Food, their sixth location in Eastlake, California. With open arms, Joaquin and Lolita welcome you to come see why they have been a staple in the community since 1984, as they continue to strive on giving you the freshest Mexican food around. After all, “Patience is the essence of fine Mexican food.”
-Juan Farfan
Complete Compassionate Companion Animal Care • Full Service Medical and Surgical Facility • Focused on Your Pet’s Health • Serving the community for 13 years The Best of South County Gold Star Award
2 0 1 3
Voted Best Veterinarian in the South Bay for the Last 5 Years! Dr. Lynette Henderson and rescue kitten
Telegraph Canyon Animal Medical Center 577 Telegraph Canyon Road Chula Vista • (619) 421-1323 www.TelegraphCanyonVet.com
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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LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT
Chula Vista Public Library Foundation
If you've attended the festive, annual Bon Appétit food and wine celebration, you have supported the Chula Vista Public Library Foundation. This major fundraiser brings in more than $25,000 annually for the library and its services. Last year's gala funded additional hours at the Otay Ranch branch library and helped support the recent renovation of the Civic Center branch's auditorium. The Foundation's latest outstanding effort was contributing to the relocation of the Chula Vista Heritage Museum to the Civic Center Library. The 2016 Bon Appétit event is set for Saturday, April 30, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Salt Creek Recreation Center. Tickets are $40 per person and can be purchased at Chula Vista Library branches or at the door.
The Foundation board rose in importance during the economic recession, when city services' funds declined. Members determined to expand library services when the Rancho Del Rey Library plans were tabled. While seeking public and retail support for converting a used bus to a bookmobile, the Foundation's perseverance and good timing led to an agreement with the Otay Ranch Town Center to open a trend-setting library in the mall. Due in part to the vigorous fundraising and advocacy of the Foundation, three empty food court storefronts were converted into a popular library. This innovative approach to library services has improved the mall's foot traffic and business, and has given the library a much-needed eastside home.
The Library Foundation and the Friends of the Library were established by a group of public-minded supporters to provide a funding and advocacy arm for the library. The main goal is to reach out to the community to ensure that residents benefit from the self-improvement, self-reliance and self-empowerment that their public library provides. Current board members include Christina Glick, Sandi Gonzalez, Julie Haskins, Lesley Pham Loren, Donna Moss, Carmen Richardson, Charlene Sapien and Ric Todd. Chair Betty Waznis, Library Director, and Treasurer Yeelin Cheung round out the roster.
That was just the beginning of the Foundation's support of the Otay Ranch branch. When the Town Center, impressed with the library's performance, offered a second space to be used as a community gathering spot, the Foundation once again stepped forward to raise the necessary funds, giving birth to "The Hub." This popular and attractive 2,000-square-foot community room serves as a homework help center and safe afterschool haven, a busy passport acceptance facility, space for performances and meetings, and more.
"The strength of the community is built on how we take care of and educate children in our community," says board member Donna Moss. "I'm part of the Library Foundation because when people are informed and educated, they make better choices. That's why we do what we do." 26 O U R HOMETOWN • F EBRU A R Y 2 0 16
The Foundation also raised sufficient funds to support opening the Otay Ranch branch on Sundays, giving east Chula Vistans the same sevenday service as the two full-service branch libraries, Civic Center and South Chula Vista. For more information about the Foundation, visit www.cvplfoundation.net.