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FEBRUARY 2019
E D U C AT I O N A D VO C AT E : M A R I A G A L L E H E R
IN THIS ISSUE 04
EDITOR'S LETTER
BRAVO
What was the name of your first pet? If you have ever been a pet owner, I imagine you remember each pet’s name, breed, personality, etc. It’s impossible to forget, given that most Americans own at least one pet, and that pets are often considered to be a member of the family.
Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
15 FEATURE Puppy Love
20 SCHOOL NEWS 25 CALENDAR Out & About
26 EDUCATION ADVOCATE Maria Galleher
FEBRUARY 2019
Case in point: my husband’s and my annual Christmas letter to friends says “Merry Christmas from Mark, Amber and Wooly” across the top. The first photo is one of all three of us. This moment, Wooly, our Maine coon cat, is curled up on my lap as I type, and he has no plans to go anywhere. It turns out that Wooly has a pretty awesome life. Not only do Mark and I care for him diligently (as he struggles with health concerns as he ages), but our next-door neighbor is a veterinarian. She knows what medicine and homeopathic treatments to try and even rubs essential oils on his belly for good measure. Our sweet Wooly is a lover, but he’s also a champion rat catcher. Ever proud of his conquests, he brings each rat to the back door as a gift. Wooly reminds us that love is unconditional and also generous. When Mark and I are sitting next to each other on the couch, Wooly often squeezes between us, to touch both of us. When he is on only one lap, he always stretches a paw out to touch the other person to let us know that he loves us both. Pets aren’t perfect, but their companionship is greatly valued. The Chula Vista Animal Care Facility reunites lost pets with their owners, cares for homeless animals, and provides needed services to pets and people. Check out the feature story to learn more, and please always adopt from a shelter and make sure your pets are spayed or neutered. Life is precious, even that of animals. “If a man aspires towards a righteous life, his first act of abstinence is from injury to animals.” -Albert Einstein
—AMBER WEBER, Editor O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 3
BRAVO
/ Great things happening in our community
PUBLISHED BY
MICHAEL MONACO Publisher
AMBER WEBER Editor
MELISSA MONROY Design
ARIANNA PINTADO Contributor
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com. EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS: Amber Weber at Editor@OurHometownMag.com. VISIT US ONLINE AT: www.OurHometownMag.com. Copyright 2019. 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.
› To the OTAY WATER DISTRICT BOARD’S NEW OFFICERS. At its Jan. 2, 2019 meeting, the Board elected board member MITCH THOMPSON, who represents division 2, as president. The Board also elected board member MARK ROBAK, serving division 5, as vice president. Following the vote of officers by the Board, each of the directors immediately assumed all powers and duties of an officer of the Board of Directors.
The Otay Water District is a public agency distributing water to more than 225,000 customers within approximately 125 square miles of southeastern San Diego County, including the communities of Otay Mesa, Chula Vista, Jamul, Spring Valley, Rancho San Diego and unincorporated areas of El Cajon and La Mesa.
› To the newly elected and reelected SWEETWATER AUTHORITY BOARD MEMBERS. At the December 12 Sweetwater Authority (Authority) Governing Board meeting, STEVE CASTANEDA and HECTOR MARTINEZ were sworn into four-year terms as directors. At the same meeting, the Authority's Governing Board appointed Castaneda as Board Chair and Jose Preciado as Vice Chair for 2019-2020 term.
Thompson’s election as president follows one year of Board leadership under past president Tim Smith. In 2018, Thompson served as vice president of the Board. He has served on the District’s Board since May 2012. Thompson will serve as president through January 2020 when officer elections will again occur. “As president, I will do everything I can to further and advance the high standard of excellence and integrity we have demonstrated in the past,” said Thompson. With my Board colleagues, our General Manager Mark Watton and our highly productive and professional staff, Otay will continue to provide superior water and sewer services and products at the least possible cost to our customers.”
Castaneda was reelected to Division 1 and has served on the Authority's Board since 2014. Martinez is the newlyelected Director in Division 4. He replaces former Director Teresa "Terry" Thomas, who retired from the Board after serving for 12 years.
New Otay Water District board members Mitch Thompson (top) and Mark Robak (bottom).
The five-member Board of Directors is the governing body of the District and is responsible for setting rates for service, taxes, policies, ordinances, adopting the annual budget and other matters related to the management and operation of the water agency. Each director is elected by voters within one of five divisions to represent the public's interest on the Board. Directors serve four-year terms in office.
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The Authority's board is composed of seven members; five directors are elected by division by the citizens of the South Bay Irrigation District, and two directors are appointed by the Mayor of National City, subject to City Council confirmation.
Sweetwater Authority, a joint powers public agency, provides public water service to approximately 189,000 people residing in National City and the South Bay Irrigation District (which includes portions of Chula Vista and most of Bonita).
SEND US YOUR GOOD NEWS! Email editor@ourhometownmag.com prior to the 15th of the month and we will do our best to put the good news in an upcoming issue.
› To MIKE SIMS, the new Fire Chief of the Bonita Sunnyside Fire Protection District (FPD). Mike was sworn into his new position on January 2 by retiring Fire Chief Timothy Isbell, who served the District for 28 years.
Mike Sims,Bonita Sunnyside FPD Fire Chief
Mike’s fire service career started with obtaining his Fire Science degree from Miramar College in 1988; he was hired by the General Dynamics/Convair Fire Department (GD/CFD) the next year. He worked at GD/CFD until he was hired by Bonita in 1995. Mike promoted to the rank of Captain in 2002 and filled the role of Training Officer for Bonita. During that time, he was involved with the San Diego County Training Officers Association,
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where he served as its Secretary for two years, and ultimately President for three years. During his time as Training Officer, he oversaw the hiring, training and/or promoting of all of Bonita’s current personnel. Over the last several years, Mike has been more focused on the administrative aspects of running a fulltime fire department, which has allowed him to prepare for his new role as Fire Chief. The Bonita Sunnyside FPD is a great example of how local government can be fiscally responsible with the public’s money while also providing a top-notch service to its citizens. Mike plans to continue this legacy while also looking for ways to improve service and collaboration wherever possible.
O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Resident Runs Marathons in all 50 States By Arianna Pintado
If a person is meant to accomplish something, he or she will make it happen. Take Chula Vista’s Lorna Tan, who turned a simple conversation into a lifetime accomplishment. In 2012, Lorna met with her friends. The question, “What thing would you like to do someday that would be a significant personal challenge?” arose. Her answer: run a half-marathon. When most people answer a heavy question like this, it is rare that they will actually do it, but Lorna was fortunate. Not long after answering this question her employer announced that it would pay the cost of entry to any employee who would train and run a half-marathon. This commenced Lorna’s journey to a 50-state conquest. By her commitment to running, you would think Lorna came from a long line of runners, but she actually comes from a line of businessmen. Most of her family own businesses, and her parents never really had time for recreational sports while she and her siblings were growing up. Being raised in business did not prepare Lorna for the logistical nightmare of running in all 50 states. Lorna had no team behind her other than her husband. All travel accommodations, marathon research and marathon entries, all while still finding time to train, became a full-time job. After finally sorting it all out, Lorna began her conquest in Atlanta, GA in November 2017. She ran the Savannah race, then immediately followed with a race in Charlotte, NC. She and her husband then made their way to Philadelphia, PA, then drove down to NYC. Lorna continued state-hopping until she finally conquered all 50 states. One might think Lorna is addicted to a runner’s high since she was willing to run in all 50 states, but she actually runs for a different reason. Lorna likes to pray. When she runs, it is her time away from family and other distractions in her busy life. It is her personal time with God and where she can pray for others. The thought of being able to pray is what keeps her motivated during her long treks. 6 OUR HOME TOWN / F EB RUA R Y 2 0 1 9
On your Doorstep
Real Estate Update: Inventory and Pricing Courtesy of Minnie Rzeslawski, ReMax 24k
One of the biggest factors that people look for when purchasing a home is whether there is even a home on the market to buy. Fortunately, housing inventory has seen an increase this past year.
She knows that God is able to help those that she prays for far more than she will ever be able to. Besides praying, running has brought several joys to Lorna’s life. Through marathons, she has made friends around the country, and they share running and nutritional tips. She has also gotten to travel to places with her husband that she would have never visited otherwise. Now that this accomplishment is behind her, Lorna plans to sharpen her skill. She is reading books on prepping and race strategies and is practicing better nutritional habits. She wants to focus on improving her finish times and plans on only doing two to three marathons a year. Keep an eye out for Lorna in the upcoming London Marathon in April 2019.
According to the California Association of Realtors (CAR), active listings in California began increasing in January and reached a growth of about 17% by August. The biggest growth is seen for properties in the lower end of the pricing spectrum. Homes selling at $300,000 and under had a seven percent increase and those $300,000 to $500,000 an eight percent increase. Throughout the last few years, there was a shortage of available homes, which led to a rise in prices and bidding wars. Now that the exact opposite is happening, it seems consumers are still wary about purchasing a home.
Something that buyers should keep in mind is that with more houses available, prices decrease. An increase in inventory will lead to extended time on the market. The CAR statistics show that last year the average time that a house was on the market has increased by a little over a week. The longer a house is for sale, the more likely the seller is to lower the asking price of the property. Last year, the asking price for houses in California had a median decrease of about 4.3%. First-time home buyers tend to be scared off by the potentially higher interest rates, but they should consider taking advantage of homes dropping in price. The California housing market has proven itself to be constantly changing, and it might soon be in a shortage again. Pricing will rocket back up, and purchasing will become more difficult. O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 7
On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
Chula Vista/ Odawara Ambassador Program Accepting Applications
San Diego shamROCK Celebrates 25 Years of Irish Revelry
What started as a 24-year-old intern’s passion project has grown to be one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day block parties in San Diego. Returning on Saturday, March 16, San Diego shamROCK has now been painting the Gaslamp Quarter green for 25 years with over 80,000 square feet of luscious emerald green. 15,000 attendees from across the U.S., and live entertainment across three stages, will keep your clovers shaking from dusk until dawn! Through all of the green Bud Light beer, Tullamore Dew whiskey, Irish jigging and festival shenanigans, what many don’t realize is that they have been partying with a purpose for the past 25 years. Since day one, 100% of San Diego shamROCK’s profits have benefitted the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving the architecture, culture and history of the Gaslamp Quarter. Let the Irish times roll, and come be a part of a great cause! Each year, shamROCK takes St. Patrick’s Day in San Diego to a whole new level, transforming this legendary holiday into an outrageous block party experience for every leprechaun to enjoy. To celebrate its 25th anniversary, San Diego shamROCK
is adding two extra hours so everyone can party like the Irish and the all-new Shenanigans Block, jam-packed with a variety of St. Patrick Day-themed games. Frolic through a clover field with beer or whiskey as six blocks of the Gaslamp Quarter are transformed into an Irish wonderland. A full day of Celtic-inspired festivities and new memories awaits. Grab your favorite leprechauns, don your green attire and head downtown to experience firsthand what has made San Diego shamROCK a legendary St. Patrick’s Day tradition. With your shamROCK general and VIP tickets, you receive no cover charge and food and drink specials at 25 participating Gaslamp restaurant or bars—talk about the luck of the Irish! Tickets to this event start at $30 for General Admission and $70 for Lucky Leprechaun VIP. Add to your ticket and join the Clover Crew with a range of custom packages including two complimentary 16 oz. beers, St. Patrick’s Day hat, 25th commemorative stein and credential, fast pass entry and more for $7 to $30. For additional information on the shamROCK shenanigans planned for 2019 or to purchase tickets, please visit sandiegoshamrock.com.
The International Friendship Commission (IFC) of the City of Chula Vista is now accepting applications for the 2019 Ambassador Program with Sister City Odawara, Japan. Four Chula Vista residents between the ages of 18 and 23 will be selected to represent Chula Vista in Odawara and will be hosted by an Odawara family. In turn, the Chula Vista Ambassadors will host the selected Odawara students in Chula Vista. Candidates must be in college or college bound, or be young professionals and must be Chula Vista residents. The IFC provides up to $1,000 as a travel stipend toward airfare. THIS YEAR’S PROGRAM DATES ARE AS FOLLOWS: Ambassadors will be in Odawara, Japan from August 1-13, and the Ambassadors will be in Chula Vista from August 13-23. Selected ambassadors must be able to participate for the entire duration of the program. Applications are available online at www. chulavistaca.gov/residents/culturalarts/ odawara-application. Interested students and young professionals must complete the on-line application by 5 p.m. on March 11. For more information, please contact Cultural Arts Manager Lynnette Tessitore, at ltessitore@chulavistaca.gov or (619) 409-5465.
O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Rotary Club Builds Bikes for Children
More than 100 South Bay children received bikes for Christmas this past year, thanks to the Rotary Club of Chula Vista and other organizations. The annual bike giveaway has been happening since the 1960s. Rotarians purchased and assembled 112 new bikes in early December before distributing them with riding helmets in time for Christmas through the Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Diego, the South Bay Family YMCA, the Barnhart Cancer Center at Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center and other local organizations. The bicycles are given to needy children or children experiencing traumatic, lifechanging events, said club president Dan Dredla. He added the bike giveaway is just one of several service projects Chula Vista Rotarians engage in throughout the year and one of its most popular with members. “We have literally given away thousands of bicycles over the years,” Dredla said. “For some of these kids, it’s going to be the only present they get on Christmas morning.” Club members raised funds for the project this year through a grant from the local Rotary International district and a Neighborhood Reinvestment Grant from the office of San Diego County Supervisor Greg Cox. The Kiwanis Club of Chula Vista also contributed funds and volunteers to the event. “People understand how valuable this is,” Dredla said. “They really want to be able to give something special for children that may not be able to…have the Christmas that their moms and dads would like for them to have.”
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Dredla said the club has recently completed or planned several additional projects. Club members last year volunteered to complete home repairs for an elderly couple, sorted and packaged food at a local food bank and raised money for victims of November’s Camp Fire in Paradise, CA. Future projects include a trip to Tijuana to build a home for a homeless family. Since 1926, the Rotary Club of Chula Vista has brought together local business and community leaders dedicated to providing service to others locally and around the world. For more information on the Rotary Club of Chula Vista, visit www.chulavistarotary.org.
Nominations Open for Chula Vista CLEAN Champion Awards Nominations are now being accepted for the Chula Vista CLEAN Sustainability Champion Awards. The awards, an initiative of Chula Vista’s Sustainability Commission, are designed to recognize individuals and groups who are helping to achieve clean air, clean water and clean land within the City. Any person/group living or working in Chula Vista is eligible to be nominated for an award and potentially recognized for their local sustainability achievements. To submit a nomination, go to bit.ly/2RVfHf0. Nomination forms are due by 5 p.m. Any person/ on Sunday, group living March 31. or working in Award winners will Chula Vista is be recognized eligible to be at the City nominated for Council meeting an award and on April 16 potentially beginning at recognized 5 p.m.
for their local sustainability achievements.
The Sustainability Commission’s goal is that the annual awards help celebrate local environmental champions and inspire others to keep Chula Vista CLEAN for future generations. More information about the City of Chula Vista’s environmental programs and services can be found at chulavistaca.gov/clean.
On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
Lighting Replacement Begins at Chula Vista Loma Verde Pool
The nearly 50-year-old Loma Verde Aquatic Center, located at 1420 Loma Lane in Chula Vista, received new underwater pool lighting beginning in late January 2019; the lighting replacement is expected to be complete in early February. Lighting replacement includes new, energy efficient LED pool lamps which will consume less energy and produce a 500-watt output. Energy savings with the new lighting are estimated to be 70 Loma Verde percent. The pool lights Aquatic Center, at Loma Verde were last one of two City replaced in 2001.
pools, offers swimming lessons, lap swim, recreational swim and water exercise classes.
It is also home to several high school swim teams, water polo teams, South Bay Aquatics swim club, Southern Water Polo Club and Soaring Minds Home School group.
Funding for the underwater pool lighting is provided by Measure P, the half-cent sales tax approved by Chula Vista voters in 2016 for infrastructure projects in the City. The work is being performed by the City’s Public Works Department at a cost of $54,000. The lighting project is one aspect of several future rehabilitation projects at Loma Verde Pool.
Loma Verde Aquatic Center, one of two City pools, offers a variety of year-round programming which includes swimming lessons, lap swim, recreational swim and water exercise classes. It is also home to several high school swim teams, water polo teams, South Bay Aquatics swim club, Southern Water Polo Club and Soaring Minds Home School group. The pool has nearly 100,000 visitors each year. Parkway Pool, located at 385 Park Way, will be open during the Loma Verde closure. Parkway will offer lap swim Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. until Loma Verde Pool reopens.
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On your Doorstep
Grab Life by the Beads at the Big Easy Bites & Booze Tour
San Diego’s nationally recognized Mardi Gras celebration, the Big Easy Bites & Booze Tour, is back on Saturday, March 2 from 1 to 5 p.m. for another epic day of beads, eating, drinking and merrymaking. Mark your calendars and get your tickets early for this over-the-top display of Fat Tuesday madness, taking place in the heart of the finest city in America, the Gaslamp Quarter. The Big Easy Bites & Booze tour is set to take you on a tantalizing excursion of 20 delicious bites and 20 Mardi Gras-inspired sips. Grab your celebratory crew and treat yourself! Take your taste buds on this self-guided edible extravaganza through some of the most notable Gaslamp Quarter restaurants and bars, serving up their best cuisine. Of course, it isn’t a Mardi-party without beads, beads and more beads! Each restaurant or bar you visit on your delicious stroll through downtown will give you a bead. Remember to keep track of them, as they have an important purpose. Collect 10 beads of colorful neck candy at 10 hotspots along your excursion, and redeem them at checkin for exclusive VIP access to the Bites & Booze after party. The Bites & Booze Tour is teaming up with Brazilian Productions to bring you a legendary celebration so you can party all night just like the NOLA natives! The location is secret, but it is guaranteed that this epic after party will be filled with plenty of music, dancing and entertainment to fuel you through the night. This is one Mardi-party you won’t want to miss! Wear your purple, green and gold and get the full Mardi experience with an edible twist. Attendees must be 21 years or older and have valid ID to enter. Tickets for the Mardi Gras Beads, Bites & Booze Tour start at $25 and $30 on the day of the event. Please visit sdmardigras.com for more ticket and event information.
South Bay Historical Society
PRESENTS "THE OSPREY OF THE SOUTH BAY” By Harry Orgovan
The osprey is a bird of prey which eats mostly fish. Like all birds of prey it can see things far away and make them appear closer with its vision. All birds of prey can also see movement four times faster than humans. (Humans see 20 flowing pictures per second to our brains; birds of prey see 80 flowing pictures per second to their brains.) To catch a fish, an They can osprey will dive from as high as 130 feet, grabbing the fish with its be seen extended talons, which have little around San spikes on the scales to grip the fish. The osprey has a protective lens Diego Bay that will cover the eye if it makes all year contact with the water. Ospreys mate for life and come back to the long and same nest each year. They can be return to seen around San Diego Bay all their nest year long and return to their nest in early February. You can find in early their nests high up on poles with a February. nesting platform. Visit the Chula Vista Heritage Museum's new 2019 exhibit called "Natural History & Indigenous People of the South Bay Region." Located inside the Chula Vista Public Library (365 F Street), the museum exhibit is free and open to the public during library hours.
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On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
puppy
love
There is a hidden gem
HELPING
Lost and Abandoned Animals
in Southwest Chula Vista. The Chula Vista Animal Care Facility, located at 130 Beyer Way, helps lost and abandoned animals and Chula Vista residents with animal-related concerns.
Each year the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility (CVACF) takes in over 5,000 homeless animals. One of the biggest priorities is reuniting lost pets with their owners. Approximately 18% of the animal intake return home; last year over 750 animals were reclaimed or returned to their owners. Unfortunately, not all pets are able to be returned home. The shelter helps rehome pets when someone has to give away a pet or when they are never claimed from the shelter. Behavior training and education are first offered to pet owners to encourage pets to remain in their homes. When animals do not return home, the shelter works hard to find a new home for them. Almost 64% of the animal
intake is rehomed. Almost 2,000 animals are adopted each year from the facility, and over 800 are transferred to partnering shelters that have the available space and/or special resources. While animals are housed at the shelter, they receive personalized care and comprehensive medical treatment to keep them safe and healthy. There is no time limit on how long an animal can stay at the shelter, but for the animal’s best interests the staff seek to find new homes for long-term residents. CVACF is proud to be a part of the San Diego Animal Welfare Coalition (SDAWC) that has worked collaboratively to ensure that no healthy or treatable animal is euthanized in San Diego County. It is called “Getting to Zero.” With the help of Coalition and community partners the Coalition has maintained a “0” euthanasia rate of healthy or treatable animals.
O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 15
PUPPY LOVE
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In the
COMMUNITY T A K E S What it In addition to caring for animals, CVACF also works with the community through outreach, education, enforcement and humane services. They educate the community about responsible pet ownership to help reduce the number of homeless pets. Animal control officers ensure the safety of people and animals in the community. They respond to all sorts of calls, from a stray alligator, to a hoarder case, to a tree-stranded cat. They respond 24/7, 365 days a year to animal-related emergencies. On a daily basis they counsel and advise pet owners on welfare issues that have been brought to the attention of Animal Control. The dispatcher receives over 10,000 calls per year. Spaying or neutering pets helps with serious pet overpopulation problems. The shelter offers low-cost spay/neuter clinics for any pet owner. As a result of donated contributions, CVACF is able to offer reduced-fee spay/ neuter clinics for low-income residents. Last year over 600 surgeries were performed for the community. CVACF also offers low-cost rabies vaccinations, licensing and microchip services. A microchip is a safe, permanent implant that will identify you as the pet owner. When a lost animal is brought into any shelter, the animal is scanned for a microchip in hopes to identify who the owner is. Microchips can be implanted any day the shelter is open, but rabies vaccinations are administered only on Wednesdays during the weekly rabies clinic. Last year two special pet events were added to make vaccinations, licensing and microchips more accessible in the community.
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From students gaining community service hours to retirees sharing their time and talents, CVACF is fortunate to have over 100 volunteers who serve the shelter annually...Last year over 6,500 hours were contributed, not counting foster assistance.
The budget for CVACF is approximately $3 million per year, which mostly comes from city contracts and fees. CVACF has 23 permanent employees and 18 part-time employees that tend to the animals at the shelter seven days a week, 365 days per year. But the shelter can’t do all this without its dedicated volunteers. From students gaining community service hours to retirees sharing their time and talents, CVACF is fortunate to have over 100 volunteers who serve the shelter annually. They foster newborn kittens, clean cages in offsite adoption centers and offer dogs valuable play time. Last year over 6,500 hours were contributed, not counting foster assistance. Donations, both financial and in-kind, are another essential part of keeping the quality level of service up. Last year the shelter was fortunate to be selected by Lennar Homes of San Diego to receive significant in-kind donations for shelter improvements such as kennel gutter installation, parking lot paving and painting.
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O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 17
PUPPY LOVE
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PUPPY LOVE
CVACF has more than just dogs and cats. You can occasionally find rabbits, reptiles and birds at the shelter.
How You Can
HELP It takes a lot of work to care for such a large number of homeless animals. You, as a resident of Chula Vista, have the power to make your local shelter an amazing place. There are a lot of ways you can be part of the solution: • If you find a lost pet, take it to the shelter. It exists as a centralized location for people to look for their lost pet. • Spay or neuter your pet to help prevent pet overpopulation and discourage pets from roaming and finding mates. • Consider adopting a shelter animal before purchasing a pet from a store or breeder. The CVACF has great pets that through no fault of their own are now homeless. CVACF has more than just dogs and cats. You can occasionally find rabbits, reptiles and birds at the shelter. And if you have friends or family members looking to add a pet to their home, tell them about the CVACF. You can follow on Facebook and visit www.cvaf.org to see what is happening at the shelter. • Call your local Animal Control Department to report animal cruelty or other animal- related problems. • Have your pets identified with a license for dogs and registered microchips for others. This helps guarantee they will get back to you if they find their way to the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility.
Donations allow the shelter to make needed improvements and increase adoption outreach to help find pets a permanent home. All donations are tax deductible (Tax ID 95-6000690). Thank you for helping in the care of lost, abandoned and injured animals! O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 19
SCHOOL
/ News
Unimaginable Act of Forgiveness Turns into Thriving Foundation Impacting Students in Sweetwater District
If you asked Azim Khamisa before his son was murdered if he’d be running a successful foundation based on the act of forgiveness--with the grandfather of the man who killed his son--he would likely have answered “no.” Recently, students at Hilltop Middle School had the opportunity to participate in a Peacemakers Assembly organized by the Tariq Khamisa Foundation. On the night of January 21, 1995, Khamisa’s son was murdered by the grandson of Ples Felix in Balboa Park. Felix’s grandson was the first minor to be tried as an adult in California. Months after the crime, the two men met, and Felix pleaded for forgiveness on behalf of his grandson. To his surprise, Tariq’s father granted his request—and made his own plea. “I want to see if you can help me,” Khamisa said. Since that day, the Tariq Khamisa Foundation has worked to eliminate youth violence, delivering a message of peace and respect to millions of students across the globe. According to Khamisa, forgiveness to him meant transforming his anger and hurt into healing and peace. “Violence scars the soul,” Khamisa said. “The loss of my son put me on the path to help other young people make good and non-violent choices in life. That’s what the foundation is all about.” As Khamisa and Felix shared their story, students at Hilltop Middle attentively listened to the two men explain the path they both journeyed together. “It’s such an honor and privilege to have the Khamisa Foundation here with us,” said Louie Zumstein, Hilltop Middle Principal. “Teaching students about conflict resolution and the idea of Restorative Practices is so important especially at this stage of life.” Zumstein and other Sweetwater District administrators believe in the work of the foundation so much that 7th graders at Hilltop Middle have already begun a 10-session educational series called Restorative Workshops. The series teaches students important skills such as how to manage their emotions, accountability for one’s actions, comprehension of making amends, practicing compassion and forgiveness. Students will also participate in active, student-led discussions as well as share personal views, opinions and experiences on various topics.
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Founders of the Tariq Khamisa Foundation: Azim Khamisa (left) and Ples Felix (right).
“
The loss of my son put me on the
“Khamisa and Felix’s story is so inspiring and heartwarming,” said Natalie Cruz, Hilltop Middle Restorative Coordinator. “My hope is that our students take away positive key tools to navigate their way through dealing with real life situations.” When asked what Tariq would think about the work he’s doing in his honor, Khamisa replied, “Proud. Tariq practiced forgiveness and compassion every day. I believe he would be proud that I decided to turn a devastating situation into a positive one changing the lives of young people.”
path to help other young people make good and non-violent choices in life. That’s what the foundation is all about.
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School News
O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 21
School News
Students STEAM into New Learning Space at Chula Vista Public Library
GORDON KOHL
Music
PIANO
KEYBOARD & ACCORDION
LESSONS
CAREER PIANO & ACCORDION TEACHER
PRIVATE IN-HOME MUSIC LESSONS BEGINNER, INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED • CLASSICAL • POP • JAZZ • MUSICIANSHIP • SIGHT READING • HARMONY • THEORY
619-395-0454
Students, civic leaders, school officials and energy executives helped dedicate Energy Station, CVESD’s newest “Makerspace” created in collaboration with the Chula Vista Public Library, on January 24. A media “big reveal” followed by a community ribbon-cutting officially inaugurated Energy Station at the South Branch library. The clean energythemed Makerspace was made possible thanks to partnerships with San Diego Gas & Electric, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the National Electrical Contractors Association Dates and the City of Chula Vista. It was inspired by Innovation Station, a and model partnership with the Chula locations Vista Public Library that opened for in the Civic Center Branch Library in 2016. student
study sessions can be found online.
Energy Station’s hands-on learning experiences will change how students view STEAM careers while building understanding of energy needs, demands and clean energy opportunities. Early career exposure to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) helps students learn about how their interests, strengths and values may lead to a successful career in one of these exciting fields. With a festive physical environment, the event provided hands-on demonstrations of students coming up with solutions to energy challenges. In the World of Work room, students shared how they built circuits and wind turbines, designed energy efficient homes and created commercials to explore how their interests connect with career opportunities in the Clean Energy sector. In the lab space, students demonstrated the engineering design process and how they design and create prototypes of inventions that solve real-world problems utilizing renewable energy sources.
Dates and locations for student study sessions can be found at http://ccr.sweetwaterschools.org/nmsi-crp/. 2 2 OUR HOME TOWN / F EB R UA R Y 2 0 1 9
On your Doorstep
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February WEEKLY TOASTMASTERS CLUB #108 @ 7 – 8:30 p.m. @ Chula Vista Elementary School District, 84 East J Street in Chula Vista. Join this supportive community every Thursday and lose your fear of public speaking, increase your self-confidence and learn to communicate more effectively. There is no cost to attend and no reservation required. For more info, email tm.brenda.garay@ gmail.com or visit https://108. toastmastersclubs.org.
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AGING 2.0: INNOVATION IN DEMENTIA CARE @ 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. @ Town Square® 2765 Main St., Ste. A in Chula Vista. Family caregivers and industry professionals can learn about the latest in dementia care innovation, network and learn how Town Square® benefits individuals with dementia. RSVP at (619) 420-1703 or townsquare@ glenner.org. VALENTINE’S TEA Hosted by Chula Vista Ballet @ 2 and 4 p.m. @ Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy, 870 Jetty Lane in Chula Vista. Ticket costs $15. Buy tickets at Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy or at Farmers Insurance, 642 3rd Avenue in Chula Vista. For more information, call (619) 585-1133, email chulavistaballet@ gmail.com or visit www. chulavistaballet.org.
OUT & ABOUT
MARINE CORPS LEAGUE SOUTHBAY DETACHMENT 1207 MEETING @ 7 – 8 p.m. @ Chula Vista Veterans Home, Building F, 700 E. Naples Court in Chula Vista. Meet former and retired veterans plus hear from a guest speaker. Please call Commandant Jim Thomas at (619) 227-9535 with questions.
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CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS @ 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center (CVTC), 2800 Olympic Parkway in Chula Vista. Join the CVTC and the City of Chula Vista to celebrate the local champions who represent our city in academics, sports, community service, cultural arts and more.
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CUPIDS & CANINES @ 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. @ Grossmont Center, 5500 Grossmont Center Drive (inside the mall). The Chula Vista Animal Care Facility and dozens of rescue agencies and shelters will have hundreds of animals available for adoption. For more information, visit SDShelters.org.
DECOMPRESS NETWORKING @ 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. @ Romesco Mexiterranean Bistro, 4346 Bonita Road in Bonita. Social and Business Networking event with free admission. No host bar.
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CHULA VISTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INSTALLATION DINNER & DANCE @ 6 – 11 p.m. @ The Venue at EastLake, 871 Showroom Place, Suite 100 in Chula Vista. Congratulate and thank former officers and welcome new officers and board members for 2019. RSVP on or prior to Friday, February 15. Please call (619) 420-6603 with any questions.
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GEORGE WASHINGTON BIRTHDAY GALA AND FUNDRAISER @ 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. @ Bay View Restaurant, Marine Corps Recruit Depot. Honor the founder of the Purple Heart medal and benefit local veteran causes. Enjoy a fun evening with dinner, silent auction, music, dancing and patriotism. For tickets and info, contact Cheryl Perez at Cheryl.mopa@gmail. com or call (619) 997-5501.
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CONCERT ON THE GREEN @ 4 – 6 p.m. @ Chula Vista Marina, 550 Parkway in Chula Vista. Local band Trade Winds will provide entertainment at the Sunset Pavilion.
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SAVE THE DATE 03/02: FAMILY ART SERIES AT THE CHULA VISTA LIBRARY @ 2 p.m. @ Chula Vista Civic Center, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. Sol e Mar will showcase the African influenced rhythms in an interactive and engaging performance. Clap and dance along to Cuban and Brazilian music while learning about the history and sounds of “Carnaval”! For more info, call (619) 282-7599 x114. 03/02: MARDI GRAS @ 1 - 5 p.m. in the Gaslamp Quarter. Grab life by the beads for the Big Easy Bites & Booze Tour. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 day of. For more info or to purchase online, visit sdmardigras.com. 03/10: SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL MARIACHI FESTIVAL & COMPETITION @ 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. @ Bayside Park in Chula Vista. The National City Chamber of Commerce and the Unified Port of San Diego invite you to a community-friendly event with mariachi music, traditional ballet folklorico dancing and a celebration of arts, culture and culinary delights. 03/16: SHAMROCK @ 2 p.m. - midnight in the Gaslamp Quarter. Grab your friends and don your green attire for a full day of Celticinspired festivities. Tickets to this event start at just $30 for General Admission and $70 for Lucky Leprechaun VIP.
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EDUCATIO N ADVO CATE
MARIA GALLEHER / SUHSD Innovative Leader Inspires, Advocates for Students
Meet Maria Galleher, long-time inspirational teacher at Chula Vista High School in the Sweetwater Union High School District. Galleher, an educator who wears many hats, teaches AP Government, Peer Mediation, Food and Nutrition through Gardening, and Spanish and Mexican American Studies at Chula Vista High. “As a teacher, I believe in enhancing my students’ psychological and physical health by advocating for the “whole child,” Galleher said. “As a Peer Mediation instructor as well, I believe when teachers address the emotional well-being of a child through restorative practices, prevention of acts of aggression will occur.”
to reclaim our health by focusing on food justice, food insecurity and sustainability.” Since 2015 Galleher and her students have planted fruit trees and built a student farm from the ground up. Now students are eager to compost and grow their own food. To add to her list of accomplishments, Galleher was named one of the 2018-19 Sweetwater District Teachers of the Year. A daily goal of hers is to motivate and inspire students to love the act of learning so they can use it for any subject, no matter their level or background.
Galleher began her career in the Sweetwater District in 1988 teaching at National City Junior High School (now National City Middle). She recently was one of three recipients who received the 2018 Gardens for Good grant award with nearly 150 applicants from the U.S. and Canada. Galleher was the catalyst in turning two weedinfested lots on her campus to a fully functioning zerowaste garden and classroom.
In addition to being dedicated to her work as an educator, Galleher, alongside newly elected Chula Vista Councilwoman Jill Galvez and a group of Chula Vista community members, wasted no time in helping victims of the Camp Fire in Paradise a few months back. The fundraiser was organized to help several Chula Vista High School graduates who suffered losses in the Camp Fire. The GoFundMe account and other fundraiser activities raised $17,000 with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the victims.
“Chula Vista High School is an inner city school surrounded by fast food restaurants. When analyzing physical education data, our students score in the top three in the overweight/obesity category,” said Galleher. “Many of our students receive free or reduced lunch and they don’t have easy access to organic healthy food. Our endeavor with developing this gardening program is
“I strongly believe that not just one teacher can nourish “the whole child” alone, but if all teachers can make transformational change together, lives of students will change,” said Galleher. “While I’m extremely proud of my accomplishments in the field of teaching, I am more proud of the steps students have taken to enrich their lives with exercises for their bodies and minds.”
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South Bay
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PUPPY LOVE
Limited Stops, Fast and Frequent. Otay Mesa to Downtown. Tr S an a si nta tC F e e C ou nte r rt ho H u or se to n Pl C a Tr ity an C za si ol t C le enge te r
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Downtown San Diego
South Bay 805
Ea Tr st P an a si lom tS a H ta r er tio ita n ge Lo m as Sa Ve nt rd a es O Ve ta n y e M R tia an ill en ch ia O t Tr ay an M si e t C sa en te r
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PALOMAR ST
UNITED STATES MEXICO
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