keeping a
promise BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS: center for exce l l e n ce i n l e a de r s h i p
MARCH
take shape for l i fe
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT: the dennis fam i ly
2015
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CONTENTS FROM THE EDITOR Robert W. Service, a British-Canadian poet known for writing catchy verses as opposed to literary poetry, wrote the short but sure verse, “A promise made is a debt unpaid.” You may remember asking for promises as a child. Maybe you wanted to share a secret but also wanted to make sure it stayed a secret. “Do you promise you won’t tell? Cross your heart?” These were urgent requests as children.
16 keeping a promise
Maybe you remember making promises, either as a child, teen or an adult. Perhaps you remember breaking one. South Bay Community Services (SBCS) has made a bold promise to the Castle Park neighborhood of Chula Vista. Partnering with dozens of organizations throughout the city and county to improve the outcomes of children and families, SBCS brings us an update this month on what and how they’re doing. The purpose of Promise Neighborhoods, as defined on the U.S. Department of Education’s website, is “to significantly improve the educational and developmental outcomes of children and youth in our most distressed communities, and to transform those communities…” With its cradle-to-career approach, Chula Vista Promise Neighborhood is “focused on family, education, health and community to support academic excellence and college bound aspirations” for children in Castle Park. As you’ll soon read, it’s a daunting task. But the commitment from nonprofit and government organizations, businesses, health care centers, schools and others is strong and focused. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but SBCS is working with partners to ensure that it’s fulfilling its promise, paying its debt. An unknown author once wrote, “Promise is a big word. It either makes something or it breaks everything.” Let’s choose to make a promise only when we’ll keep it, and to keep it every time we make it. If not in Castle Park, in our own neighborhood, church, workplace or home.
MARCH 2015
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
15 SCHOOL "The Eyes Have It" Art Exhibit
16 FEATURE Keeping a Promise
20 ON TOPIC What is Your YMCA Story?
22 CALENDAR Out & About
24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS Take Shape For Life Center for Excellence in Leadership
26 RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT The Dennis Family
AMBER WEBER editor
OU R H OM ETO W NMAG. CO M 3
BRAVO ›
To NESTLE TOLL HOUSE CAFÉ for breaking ground on its second Chula Vista location. January 29 was a sweet day for Chula Vista as franchise owner Daisy Mirador, along with architect Paul Worland with RAAM Development Inc. and Chula Vista Mall Operations Manager Kyle Godat, broke ground for the new location in the Chula Vista Mall. The first Nestle Toll House Café location is in the Otay Ranch Town Center.
›
Franchise owner Daisy Mirador with architect Paul Worland and Chula Vista Mall Operations Manager Kyle Godat.
4 OU R H OMETOWN • MARC H 2 0 15
To the CITY OF CHULA VISTA for earning the SANDAG iCommute Diamond Award. Chula Vista received the Diamond Award for offering alternative commuting options to employees including biking (with bike racks, lockers and showers provided on site), walking, public transit, carpooling (with preferred parking for employees), telecommuting and alternative/flex work schedules. Some other ways that the City has worked to promote alternative transportation can be found at www.chulavistaca.gov/altTransportation.
great things happening in our community PUBLISHED BY:
Options include ridesharing and TripTracker, alternative fuel station maps, installation of chargers at municipal facilities including Civic Center and other locations, pocketsized bike maps and safe routes to schools maps for both employees and residents, and yearly employee surveys to assess employee commuting habits. To view the list of winners, go to www.icommutesd.com/employers/ diamond-awards.
›
To the SUPPORTERS OF THE EASTLAKE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION (EEF)’S TASTE OF EASTLAKE. On January 23, the first Taste of EastLake raised more than $61,000 for technology programs for our local schools.
EDITOR Amber Weber
›
To the HILLTOP CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER in Chula Vista for its “Habitat gARTen.” The National Wildlife Foundation recognized the “Habitat gARTen” as a certified wildlife habitat just three months after its creation. Nearly 200 parents, children, community members, artists and designers volunteered their time in November 2014 to lend a hand in building and planting the garden. Materials for the project were purchased with a $40,820 grant awarded to Child Development Associates, Inc. (CDA) specifically for the “Habitat gARTen” as part of the Neighborhood Reinvestment Program of the County Board of Supervisors. This special certification by the National Wildlife Federation identifies this space as a wildlife-friendly garden that helps to “restore habitat in commercial and residential areas.” To become an official Certified Wildlife Habitat, a garden must meet these four requirements: 1. Provide Food for Wildlife 2. Supply Water for Wildlife 3. Create Cover for Wildlife 4. Give Wildlife a Place to Raise Their Young The “Habitat gARTen” is a large section of the Hilltop campus that serves as a mini sanctuary for birds, insects, water and a variety of plants. This outdoor classroom integrates art, science, nature and gardening into the children’s daily schedule. For more information about CDA’s work in the community, visit www.cdasandiego.com.
PUBLISHER Michael Monaco
Left to right, Adrian Gonzalez and Stan Canaris. Photo credit Dalia Photo Studios.
DESIGNER Melissa Monroy
CONTRIBUTOR Jen Amos
CONTRIBUTOR Keren De Leon Caesar's Tijuana Restaurante Bar preparing food for guests. Photo credit Dalia Photo Studios.
A special thank you goes to the presenting sponsor, the Adrian and Betsy Gonzalez Foundation. Nicole Graichen, Executive Director of EEF, says “Thank you, Adrian, for attending and speaking on behalf of your amazing foundation. Also, thank you to all of our committee members, EEF board members, sponsors, volunteers, guests and The Venue at EastLake…This amazing night would not have been possible without each and every one of you.” For more information, visit www.eefkids.org.
CONTRIBUTE TO BRAVO! Send a note to editor@ourhometownmag.com prior to the 10th
of the month, and we will do our best to put the good news in an upcoming issue.
Send advertising inquiries to Michael Monoco at sales@ourhometownmag.com. All editorial contributions should to be emailed to: editor@ourhometownmag.com. Our Hometown Magazine can be found online at www.OurHometownMag.com.
Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. Standout Media, 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. StandOut Media has the right to refuse advertising. Contact Standout Media Group, Inc. at (619) 840−7722
OU R H OM E TO W NMAG. CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Solar Gold Rush in San Diego: Rules for Solar Are Changing
The rules of solar are changing in California, and property owners who wait to go solar in the future will not receive today’s favorable conditions. The billing arrangement that provides solar owners full retail credit for the energy they put on the grid, called net energy metering, is ending. Industry experts suggest that homes and businesses that wait until the peak summer months to install a solar power system will likely miss their chance. Net energy metering will end once a certain amount of solar is installed in each utility territory, and San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) will be the first utility to reach its capacity. Anyone who installs solar before the cap is hit will receive
full retail credit for energy they produce and will be grandfathered in for 20 years. Once net metering ends, new homes and businesses that install solar will receive less credit for the energy they produce. “The period for going solar under the current net metering rules could end for SDG&E customers by December or even earlier, depending on how many people install solar this year,” said Bernadette Del Chiaro, executive director of the California Solar Energy Industries Association. In order for property owners to get grandfathered in to current rules, solar projects must be installed. A signed contract will not reserve a property’s space in the queue. Under normal
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On your Doorstep
“
We are informing all San Diego property owners that are interested in going solar that they need to sign up by May in order to receive the current favorable rules and grandfathering protections. - Daniel Sullivan, founder and president of Sullivan Solar Power
”
market conditions, it takes an average of 120 days for a project to be delivered from the time paperwork is signed to installation completion. The solar industry is anticipating a bottleneck for installations, city permitting, and utility inspections.
In addition to the local changes, solar policy is
“We are informing all San Diego property owners that are interested in going solar that they need to sign up by May in order to receive the current favorable rules and grandfathering protections,” said Daniel Sullivan, founder and president of Sullivan Solar Power, which has been providing solar to the region for a decade.
available for property owners who invest in solar.
going to become less favorable on a national level as well. The tax credit, which covers 30 percent of a solar project, is currently the largest incentive The federal tax credit for solar is ending in 2016 for residential properties and will be reduced to 10 percent for commercial property owners.
Now Open Tours Daily Come travel the world at Westmont at San Miguel Ranch during ourFlavors of the World Event! Tuesday, March 3rd Featured Cuisine—Japanese
Tuesday, March 10th Featured Cuisine—Filipino
Tuesday, March 17th Featured Cuisine—Ireland
Tuesday, March 24th Featured Cuisine—Italy
Tuesday, March 31st Featured Cuisine—Spain
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For those of you caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other dementias you may want to consider joining us for our next Compass Rose lecture series. Understanding Alzheimer’s & Other Forms Of Dementia Thursday, March 19th 1:00-3:00 p.m. Please R.S.V.P. Space is Limited
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2325 Proctor Valley Road, Chula Vista, CA 91914 | Lic #374603509 OU R H OM E TO W NMAG. CO M 7
On your Doorstep
Cycle EastLake & Run Returns
It’s that time again—Cycle EastLake & Run is back. On April 25, nearly 1,000 cyclists and runners from all over Southern California will take to the streets and trails of the Eastlake community for the 17th Annual Cycle EastLake & Run event.
Don’t miss out on the fun! Explore the hills, lake and phenomenal views with bike rides which consist of the popular 100k Cycle, 25 Mile Cycle, Family Roll & Stroll and the 18 Mile Mountain Bike & Poker Ride.
Also back by popular demand is the EastLake Half Marathon and 10k run. These runs showcase some of the gems of the Chula Vista Park District, our exceptional mountain and lakeside views and well-maintained, low-traffic running trails. There is something for everyone! This family fun day promotes healthy living and benefits the EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds to support technology enhancements for the EastLake community schools.
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.
www.cvesd.org • (619) 425-9600 ext. 1570 Each child is an individual of GrEat Worth 8 OU R H OMETOWN • MARC H 2 0 15
Activities will begin at the Otay Ranch Town Center in front of REI. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., experience the Community Expo with many free children’s activities. Included in this is a bicycle helmet giveaway sponsored by Kaiser Permanente and the Cox Cares Foundation. Adults can bring children to be personally fit for a properly fitted bicycle helmet. Helmets are limited and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m., and the first ride begins at 7:30 a.m. The cost for adults starts at $45 and youth is $35. This year’s event partners include the South Bay YMCA, City of Chula Vista, Computers 2 SD Kids and Otay Ranch Town Center.
For more information about the event or to register or become a sponsor, go to www.eefkids.org/cycle or call Nicole Graichen at (619) 997-6470.
On your Doorstep
Eastlake High School Takes a Step toward Financial Literacy By Alexis Hernandez, Eastlake High School Senior
Most parents want their kids to go to school to receive an education. They’re taught important subjects like math, English and history. However, children don’t receive enough—or sometimes any—education in one of the most important subjects: financial literacy and personal money management skills. In Chula Vista, Eastlake High School wants to break this cycle of financial illiteracy. The school recently held its second event to inform students about money management. The event was supervised and planned by Eastlake teacher Sienna Barroso and Adriana Hernandez from Primerica Financial Services. The speakers were seven students from Eastlake ranging from freshmen to seniors. They taught how compound interest works, the rule of 72, how to save for a large purchase and retirement. After the event, multiple students expressed their gratitude for being taught practical information that would impact their life in a productive manner.
According to a federal study, less than a third of young adults have basic knowledge of interest rates, inflation and other financial terms. While parents may not need to teach their children about advanced subjects like 401(k) and mutual funds, they can teach the basics, such as the difference between wants and needs, saving, and balancing a check book.
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Teaching children about money management would be beneficial to the economy since people would make smarter choices about how they handle their own money, but there is still a long way to go in educating the children of the U.S. Eastlake High School, however, is taking a step in the right direction to elevate the importance of money management in schools in the district and maybe even be an example to the rest of the U.S. OU R H OM E TO W NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Art Award Nominations Due April 3
Congregational Tower Remodeling is Complete
The City of Chula Vista is accepting nominations for the 2015 Gayle McCandliss Art Awards, now through April 3. Given annually to high school juniors, graduating seniors and individuals who have supported the arts in Chula Vista, the fund is named after former Mayor Gayle McCandliss, who was a strong supporter of the arts.
One of Chula Vista’s aging retirement centers looks young again. On January 14, community members and government officials celebrated the re-dedication ceremony of Congregational Tower with a ribbon cutting and apartment tours. Built in 1972 as a ministry of Community Congregational Church, Congregational Tower is a 16-story apartment building for low-income seniors.
New this year, participants may nominate themselves. In addition, student award nominations for any junior or senior who resides in the City of Chula Vista may be submitted by high school teachers, administrators or counselors. Nominations of individuals who have supported the arts may also be submitted by any resident of Chula Vista. All recipients must reside in Chula Vista. Categories include the “Rising Star” award for high school juniors and seniors from dance, theater, music, media, visual and literary arts. The “Bravo” award recognizes those who have helped build community pride and art appreciation, and the “Literary” award celebrates local writers. The McCandliss Art Awards will be presented at a future City Council meeting. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on April 3 at the Civic Center Branch Library, 365 F Street. Nomination forms are available on the City’s website at www. chulavistalibrary.com. For more information, please contact Stephanie Loney, Principal Library, at sloney@ chulavista.lib.ca.us or (619) 691-5288.
10 O U R H OMETOWN • MARC H 2 0 15
With 186 units, a combination of onebedroom apartments and studios, each apartment includes a full kitchen, living/dining area and full bathroom. Renovations in the individual apartments included new bathroom and kitchen plumbing fixtures, new appliances, new cabinets and countertops, new light fixtures, new windows, an enclosed coat closet and a refurbished patio/balcony. Floor and window coverings are new throughout the entire building, and each apartment has electric heat and air conditioning.
The common areas of Congregational Tower were re-configured and expanded by 2,070 square feet. The community kitchen is equipped with all new appliances, and the community room has increased in size.
With the re-configuration, the laundry room has been expanded and a computer lab, lounge/library, recreational/media room, service coordinator office, arts and crafts room, outdoor patio and additional public restrooms have been created. Congregational Tower underwent a number of structural improvements as well. A new roof and new finishes to the exterior of the building are visible improvements. All electrical, mechanical and plumbing systems within the building were upgraded or replaced, and landscaping was improved. More than $11.3 million was spent to renovate the building. Chula Vista’s full-service senior citizen center is within half a block of the community. A library, parks, the police station and Scripps Mercy Hospital are less than a mile away. Congregational Tower also benefits from its close proximity to the shops and restaurants of downtown Chula Vista. Public transportation is accessible nearby, with a public bus stop in front of the building. Financing for the development, construction and operation of Congregational Tower was provided by Citi Bank, Union Bank, the Community Congregational Development Corporation and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. To learn more about this project, check out Retirement Housing Foundation‚s YouTube video at http://youtu.be/xQNtSUHtvoE.
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OU R H OM E TO W NMAG. CO M 11
On your Doorstep
)
Nominate a Local Eco-Hero for a Chula Vista CLEAN Champion Award
Come Ride or Run With Us! Cycle EastLake & EastLake Half
Benefiting The EastLake Educational Foundation
April 25, 2015 • 100K Cycling Tour • 25 Mile Marty Garcia Memorial Ride • 18 Mile Mountain Bike & Poker Ride
(Prizes at the end of the ride for the best hands)
• 5K Family Roll & Stroll • 10K Run • EastLake Half Marathon
First Event Begins at 7:30am Located at the Otay Ranch Town Center 2015 Birch Road, Chula Vista, 91915
It’s Back!
ThE hONEy SpRiNgS ChALLENgE
All participants will be timed from the base of Honey Springs to the top. The top 3 Overall Men and Women will receive awards.
Register Online Now at www.eefkids.org/cycle For more information, contact Nicole Graichen at 619-997-6470 or nicole@eefkids.org
In the community, numerous individuals and organizations work to improve Chula Vista’s quality of life every day by saving energy and water, protecting open space, reducing waste and preventing pollution. Help recognize their environmental dedication and leadership by nominating them for a “Chula Vista CLEAN Champion Award” today! The CLEAN Champion Awards were created by the City’s Resource Conservation Commission in 2013 and are bestowed annually to celebrate community members who help achieve clean air, clean water and clean land within Chula Vista. This year, the Resource Conservation Commission has revised the award categories to include: CLEAN Resident Award—recognizes the environmental leadership of a resident CLEAN Business Award—recognizes the environmental leadership of a business participating in the CLEAN Business program CLEAN Organization Award— recognizes the environmental leadership of a non-profit, civic group, public agency or other organization
Event Sponsors: (as of 2/4/15)
CLEAN Youth Award—recognizes the environmental leadership of a youth organization or an individual under 18 years old
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All proceeds benefit the EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF). This school year the EEF granted $120,000 to fund technology programs at the local schools totaling more than $1.7 million since 1995.
CLEAN City Employee Award— recognizes a municipal employee in a nonenvironmental position that has contributed to improving the City’s sustainability.
All nominees must either live or work in Chula Vista, and nominations must be submitted by March 30. The award winners will be selected by the City‚s Resource Conservation Commission and recognized by the City Council at their April 28 meeting. For more information and the CLEAN Champion Award nomination form, visit www.chulavistaca.gov/clean. 12 OU R H OMETOWN • MARC H 2 0 15
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Public Library Expands Passport Services to Otay Ranch Branch
The Chula Vista Public Library's successful U.S. passport processing services have expanded to the Otay Ranch Branch Library's "The Hub" community room. The Hub, located in the Otay Ranch Town Center near the Food Court on the mall's Main Street, now offers this valuable service Tuesday through Thursday from 1 to 6 p.m. Services are by appointment only, by visiting the library's website www.chulavistalibrary.com and clicking on the “Passports” link on the left menu. Applicants are asked to allow four to six weeks for processing; no expedited services are available. Information about requirements, forms and fees is also on this site. Questions may be directed to a passport agent by calling (619) 409-1949. Effective Tuesday, March 10, The Hub will be open the same hours as the Otay Ranch Branch Library: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 12 noon to 6 p.m. The Hub will celebrate its opening on March 10 with international cultural performances. Check with the library for the time and details. Passport processing services have been offered since 2011 at the Civic Center Branch Library, 365 F Street. Also by appointment only, the service is available Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. and Wednesday and Thursday from 2 to 6 p.m. The library averages 250 passport applications each month.
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Applicants are asked to allow four to six weeks for processing; no expedited services are available. Information about requirements, forms and fees is also on this site.
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OU R H OM E TO W NMAG. CO M 13
SCHOOL
14 OU R HOMETOWN • MARC H 2 0 15
/ News
SCHOOL High School Students Display Work in Special Exhibit
I
n celebration of “Arts in Our Schools Month,” check out the art exhibit of Eastlake High School (ELHS) students in the office of Pack & Bianes Vision Care Optometry.
Photo courtesy of @packnbianes instagram
Titled “The Eyes Have It,” the exhibit consists of 21 originally created pieces by advanced art and AP studio art students of Juan Arteaga, ELHS visual arts instructor. The show will be on exhibit through March and April, and the community can visit during the office hours to view and vote on their favorite art. First, second and third place winners will be awarded at a reception on Friday, April 10 for students and parents. The exhibit is located in Pack & Bianes Vision Care Optometry, Village Walk Medical Arts Center, 890 Eastlake Parkway, Suite 102 in Chula Vista. Clinic hours are available at www.packandbianesvision.com.
OU R H OM E TO W NMAG. CO M 1 5
keeping a
promise Written by Patty Chavez
16 OU R HOMETOWN • MARC H 2 0 15
keeping a promise
Tucked in the southwestern corridor in the City of Chula Vista is Castle Park, a neighborhood that has felt the distress of economic challenges, aging infrastructure and the migration of families. A 2011 analysis of the 7,000-resident neighborhood revealed that 67 percent of adults had not graduated from high school, 50 percent of families were under-employed, 44 percent of families were femaleheaded households and 27 percent of children lived in poverty. It's no wonder then that schools in this neighborhood were also struggling. Attendance and graduation rates were low and upwards of 60% of high school students were not meeting A-G requirements— courses needed for college.
bringing the
promise to chula vista
families as
South Bay Community Services (SBCS) is one of the largest community based organizations in San Diego’s South County. Since 1971, SBCS has designed and provided services and programs for children, youth and families.
CVPromise partners provide a unique perspective and expertise to support academic achievement and life outside of the classroom. They offer on-site school programs such as computer and job skills training, parenting classes and support with housing, food and mental health services.
In 2012, Chula Vista Promise Neighborhood (CVPromise) was selected as one of 12 Promise Neighborhoods in the nation.
The concept is not new nor does it create a new program for struggling communities. The Promise Neighborhood model builds on successful efforts already underway and helps boost partnerships in order to achieve stronger collective impact.
Parent centers are thriving at all five CVPromise schools and are run by promotoras, bilingual residents who
With a $27.8 million federal
are specially trained and at hand to
grant over five years plus a
assist families.
local match from 28 partners including two school districts, five schools, colleges, non-profit
Unfortunately, this is a story all too common across the country—one that the Promise Neighborhood initiative aims to change. Inspired by the model of the Harlem Children’s Zone, Promise Neighborhoods create communities of opportunities, centered around strong schools, to provide children and their families with comprehensive, coordinated support to reverse the cycle of generational poverty.
partners
organizations, local government agencies, health centers and businesses, CVPromise has built a pipeline of services that are data-driven and results-based. Coordinated by SBCS, CVPromise services support Castle Park children from cradle to career and provide in-school services and activities at five schools: Castle Park Elementary, Castle Park Middle, Hilltop Middle, Castle Park High and Hilltop High. by being on campuses we can provide support to struggling students as well as resources and support to our teachers, counselors and administrators.
In just under two years, an increase in community involvement that can be attributed to the capacity of personal interaction can be seen. New splashes of color, lush community gardens, organic parent-led activities and a renewed sense of community are all visible. Castle Park Elementary’s PTA, which had been dormant for years, is also back after CVPromise workshops helped demystify the process and activities involved. It is now more than 60 members strong. “I didn’t know what PTA was,” said Castle Park Elementary parent Eunice Alvarez. “I’d hear, ‘become a member, it’s good for the kids. It’s only six dollars.’ But all I kept thinking was, what if I’m not a good member? What if I don’t do it right?” Now she’s found that the more events they hold on campus, the more parents want to get involved.
OU R H OM E TO W NMAG. CO M 17
from cradle to
career Education opens up a world of possibilities and is instrumental in breaking the cycle of poverty. Various programs have been put into place to support children and families at each academic step for success.
Supports extend into kindergarten to sixth grade with in-school and afterschool tutoring, Chula Vista College Institute, age-appropriate college and career related activities, and parent workshops about college savings, financial aid, scholarships and other resources.
All students at Castle Park Elementary also receive in-school music instruction and all fourth to sixth graders are practicing on
Research proves that quality early learning programs not only prepare children for kindergarten but give them a better chance of success later in school. But not everyone can afford these programs, which can run about $8,000 to $12,000 annually. In the Castle Park community, door-to-door surveys found that 62% of preschool age children were not enrolled in any preschool program.
Education opens up a world of possibilities and is instrumental in breaking the cycle of poverty. Various programs have been put into place to support children and families at each academic step for success. 18 O U R HOMETOWN • MARC H 2 0 15
More staggering was the data from Child Welfare Services, which showed that this neighborhood had the county’s highest rate of removals and severe physical abuse. So, CVPromise developed a comprehensive Early Learning Network which includes newborn home visits, parenting support, specialists who work with home caregivers, a preschool specially designed for English language learners, kindercamps and various workshops. In addition, children affected by abuse or domestic violence and their families have resources from SBCS including a direct connection to Mi Escuelita Therapeutic Preschool.
stringed instruments. In just one year and six months, the percent of Castle Park Elementary third-grade students reading at or above grade level increased from 25 to 35. In mathematics we saw amazing movement from 6.5 percent to 36.9 percent proficiency for third grade students and 9.8 percent to 15.7 percent at or above grade level for fourth grade students. Castle Park Elementary sixth-grade chronic absenteeism declined from 11 percent to 3.4 percent. For our younger children from birth to kindergarten, parents report an increase in reading three or more times a week from 53.5 percent to 67.8 percent. For our middle and high school students, various supports are on campus for students and families to support their academic achievement and plan for higher education goals. Because a high percentage—92 percent of Castle Park High and 76 percent of Hilltop High students—are the first in their family to go to college, the idea of college can be intimidating, confusing and even feel completely unattainable. Parents of these students may not know how to offer guidance or what questions to ask when meeting with teachers.
keeping a promise
Additionally, students who are working and adding to a family’s monthly income feel torn between continuing education and supporting family.
health and nutrition
On the campuses of the middle and high schools are CVPromise Academic Advocates who work closely with students and their parents to support their academic achievement and plan for higher education goals to help make the journey feel less foreign and complex. Among the support offered are SAT and ACT prep courses, financial aid workshops, research and presentations of colleges, and most importantly one-on-one interaction with the whole family.
Health and nutritional challenges impact the way students learn, feel and think. Healthy eating has been linked to higher grades, better concentration, more energy and better attendance. Castle Park data showed a higher rate of childhood obesity, and it scored high as a concern for parents.
Each Academic Advocate
Parents have taken the lead on morning walking clubs, zumba classes and nutritious cooking classes. Castle Park Elementary’s Imagination Garden is thriving due to the support of a parentrun garden committee. The garden also serves as a place for all students—preschool to sixth grade—to learn about fruits and vegetables, and monthly intergenerational reading and gardening events take place.
supports 50 students, stays with each student and their families as students advance in grade, and continues to serve as mentor and guide through college to help with completion. Since programs began, graduation rates are increasing with the latest adjusted cohort graduation rate showing an increase from 86.5% to 96.8%. Our first senior cohort showed an 87% acceptance to post secondary schools with 44% of these attending a four-year university such as UC San Diego, UCLA and Oberlin College.
Because economic challenges and life stressors can inhibit a parent’s ability to access or provide adequate health care or healthy food choices, CVPromise partners—local hospitals and health care centers—have brought services on to the school campus, and resources are available at parent centers.
On the campuses of Castle Park Elementary and Castle Park Middle are monthly food distributions where families with food insecurities can access healthy food options. CVPromise partner Smart Food Foundation not only provides healthy food, but also the tools to turn it into great-tasting, healthy meals by providing recipes and cooking classes. Data show that the number of children consuming five or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily has increased from 27 percent to 30 percent.
love of
learning shows The longitudinal case management system offered by Promise Neighborhood Institute allows us to see in real time every service provided. Now rounding out our second year, we can follow attendance, behavior, academics and other touch point services to analyze interventions and identify patterns. The data allow us to make immediate adjustments. This is a powerful tool that others in San Diego County are beginning to model, and we have many from throughout the country visiting to learn more. Not all the numbers are what we had hoped. Information on sixth grade state mathematic assessments shows a decline of students at or above grade level from 5 percent to 1.6 percent proficiency.
Data is helping us confirm what we had guessed: a student’s school success is not limited to classroom academics, but the whole environment plays a role in students’ ability to learn and excel. For some, the impact goes beyond numbers. “I am so happy here,” Ms. Marina, a Castle Park grandmother raising seven grandchildren, said. “I know right away if there is a concern with one of my grandkids. And if I’m not the best one to help them, then there is someone who can. We’re finally not alone. Last year, because of everyone my grandkids were able to celebrate a real Christmas. It’s because of this community. They’re going to be fine.” For more information, please visit CVPromise.org or call (619) 422-5005.
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ON TOPIC
/ Community
What is Your YMCA Story?
By Lisa Johnson
What is your Y story? As a child, I learned to swim in the YMCA’s “backyard” learn-to-swim program. When my children wanted to play soccer, the Y youth sports programs were there to teach them. My kids learned more than soccer at the Y. They learned sportsmanship--how to win and how to lose gracefully. They too learned to swim at the Y because, in our coastal community, water safety is critical. The Y is also the place where our family chose to exercise because there was something for each of us. When my children were small, the on-site
child care allowed me to enjoy my workout knowing my kids were safe and well cared for. As they grew, they too could work out at the Y. The Y Teen Center offered great options for educational enhancement including the award-winning Youth and Government Program as my children grew older. While I am not wealthy, Y programs are affordable, and I could afford to pay for our family’s activities at the Y. Many families in our community are like mine, and we can pay for our Y membership, before and after-school
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All Y programs are open to everyone, regardless of income level. If you would like to be a part of the Y and think you might need some assistance, please inquire.
child care if we need it, and other programs at the Y. But what if you have a large family and limited resources? What if you find yourself caring for an aging parent or a relative in poor health, and your extra financial resources go to support that? Does that mean your children can’t learn to swim or play sports, or that you can’t have a place to keep healthy and active? At the Y, we recognize that, although everyone needs and deserves the services offered, sometimes they need some financial support. The Y, thanks to our annual community fundraising efforts, is able to provide that. The mission of all YMCAs is that no one is turned away because of an inability to pay. All Y programs are open to everyone, regardless of income level, because the Y believes that is the way to strengthen a community. If you would like to be a part of the Y and think you might need some assistance, please inquire. The process is easy. If you believe you can help strengthen your community by contributing to our annual campaign, or if you would help us raise funds to help others, the Y can always use more volunteers. The Y is for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Make the YMCA a part of your story.
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OUT & ABOUT
7
13
ONSTAGE PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS "OUR LADY OF THE TORTILLA" Culture clashes and miracles
ALL-DAY SAILING ADVENTURE @ 600
Marina Pkwy in Chula Vista. Experience a tall ship adventure aboard the Bill of Rights. For departure times and to purchase tickets, call (619) 500-2419 or visit SchoonerBillOfRights.com.
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abound... @ Onstage Playhouse, 291 3rd Ave. in Chula Vista. Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. until April 4. Tickets $17-$23. Visit www.onstageplayhouse.org or call (619) 422RSVP (7787).
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SCREEN YOUR TEEN @
9 a.m.-3 p.m. @ Chula Vista High School, 820 4th Ave. in Chula Vista. Prevent fatal cardiac arrest in your teen. Free heart screening for teens age 12 - 19 from the Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation. Register at EPSaveALife.org; download the screening packet; complete and bring it to the event.
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600 Marina Pkwy in Chula Vista. Experience a tall ship adventure aboard the Bill of Rights to the music of local band Raggletaggle. For departure times and to purchase tickets, call (619) 500-2419 or visit SchoonerBillOfRights.com.
RAINBOW RUN @ 8:30 a.m. @ Harvest Park, 1550 East Palomar St. in Chula Vista. All ages are welcome to participate in the cancer awareness run/walk 3k. Ticket costs $20/adults, $15/ kids and $50/family of four. All proceeds will benefit Fundacion Castro-Limon. Pre-register at WalkingBeyondCancer.org.
TASTE OF THIRD AVENUE @ 4-8 p.m.
Sample petite portions from Village eateries at the 19th annual Taste of Third! For a list of participating restaurants and ticket information, visit thirdavenuevillage.com.
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SOLDIER RIDE Bike
fitting on Thursday @ 1-3 p.m @ Hilton Harbor Island, 1960 Harbor Island Drive in San Diego. Participate in a three-day rehabilitative cycling event focused on physical health and wellness, camaraderie, and healing. Wounded Warrior Project provides equipment at no cost to participants. More info is available at soldierride.org.
CHULA VISTA CHAMBER MIXER @ 5:30-7:30 p.m. Mix, mingle and meet future business partners. Hosted by OxyHubs, 230 Glover Ave. in Chula Vista. $10 for members and $20 for non-members. For more info or to RSVP, call (619) 271-4385.
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SEA SHANTIES SAIL @
|
20-21
SOLDIER RIDE
APRIL SAVE THE DATE(S)
Day 1 Ride @ 9 a.m - 11:30 a.m. @ Tidelands Park, 2000 Mullinix Drive in Coronado. Day 2 Ride @ 9 a.m - 12 p.m. @ Salt Creek Community Park, 2710 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. More info is available at soldierride.org.
4 | EASTER EGG HUNT @ 10
21
11-12 | BOOK SALE
ALL-DAY SAILING ADVENTURE @ 600
Marina Pkwy in Chula Vista. For departure times and to purchase tickets, call (619) 500-2419 or visit www.SchoonerBillOfRights.com.
a.m.-12 p.m. at Rohr Manor, 4548 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. Children ages 2 - 3 will enjoy games, face painting, a bounce house and cake walk. Eggs and prizes will go to all children attending. The Easter Bunny will be there too! Sponsored by the Bonita Optimist Club.
@ 10 a.m.-4 p.m. @ Bonita Museum. Gently used books will be for sale in an organized and professional setting. All proceeds go directly to the youth in our community. Sponsored by the Bonita Optimist Club.
18 | DAY OF THE CHILD
30
SPLASH WEEK
through April 3 @ South Bay Family YMCA, 1201 Paseo Magda in Chula Vista. Teaching boys and girls ages 3-12 and families how to be safer in and around water. Cost is $10. For more info, visit southbay.ymca.org or call (619) 421-9622.
EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Filippi's Pizza Grotto, 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
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
@ 11 a.m.-3 p.m. @ Memorial Park at 3rd Avenue and Park Way in Chula Vista. A Community Fun Fair with 100+ informational and interactive booths for children and families plus stories, puppets, magic show, games, painting, dancing, and more. For more info, call (619) 409-9412 or visit chulavistacc.org.
24 | STARS IN THE SPOTLIGHT @ 6:30-10 p.m. @ San Diego Women’s Club, 2557 3rd Avenue in San Diego. This fundraising event for autism will have dinner, dancing, entertainment and more. For more info, contact Yolanda Daniel at yolidaniel03@gmail.com.
25 | ST. ROSE OF LIMA 5K @ 8 a.m. @ Rohr Park, Chula Vista. Tickets are $35. For details and to register, visit www.StRoseCVSchool. com/5k.
25 | CYCLE EASTLAKE & RUN @ 7:30 a.m. @ Otay Ranch Town Center, 2015 Birch Road in Chula Vista. Register online at www. eefkids.org/cycle.
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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP
According to John Maxwell’s first irrefutable law of leadership, an individual’s capacity to succeed is limited only by the individual’s ability to lead. In other words, if a person wants to increase his success in business and in life, he must be willing to increase his effectiveness as a leader. The Center for Excellence in Leadership, founded by Dr. Stephen L. Kalaluhi and headquartered in Chula Vista, is a premier leadership solutions provider that focuses on the personal and professional growth and development of leaders at all levels of an organization. Having earned his Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Regent University’s School of Business and Leadership, Stephen now shares his leadership expertise through the facilitation of Master Mind Success Groups, small-group coaching, 1-on-1 coaching and organizational leadership development programs. As a John Maxwell Team speaker, trainer, and coach, Stephen accelerates the personal and professional growth and development of leaders through the use of John Maxwell Learning Systems, the Leadership Excellence Training Systems, and a proprietary ministry leader certification program. Developed through the Center for Excellence in Leadership, they equip ministry leaders with practical leadership tools designed to address the day-to-day challenges and obstacles faced within the church. Author of The Crux of Leadership: How to Lead When Souls Are on the Line and The Secret to Building and Sustaining a High Performance Team…And Why Everything Else is Just Leadership Fluff, Stephen’s passion for helping others achieve success is fueled by more than two decades of witnessing the powerful effect that leaders have on their organizations, departments, teams and people. Stephen has been married to his beautiful wife, Gina, for more than 21 years and has two sons, Gabriel, 13, and Caleb, 8. In addition to being a volunteer coach for Park View Little League for four years, Stephen is also a member of the Chula Vista Library Board of Trustees and the Chula Vista Public Library Foundation Board of Directors.
TAKE SHAPE FOR LIFE, M.J. & ALLEN WILKERSON
Obtaining a healthy and successful life involves a number of positive factors: desire, motivation, a proven program and great coaching. No one knows that better than M.J. and Allen Wilkerson. Four years ago they were overweight, stressed out, and sick and tired of being sick and tired. “I played the yo-yo weight loss game and was wary of weight loss programs until one holiday a family member talked to me about Take Shape for Life,” M.J. remembers. “Like most people who have tried just about everything, I was very skeptical, but had enough faith to try one more thing.” Though results are not always typical, M.J. lost seven pounds the first week. That was her launch pad. She followed the program and went on to lose 48 additional pounds. What was the difference? Personal coaching that was supportive yet non-judgmental. M.J.’s husband Allen, a retired California Highway Patrolman, was so excited with his wife’s transformation that he joined the program and lost over 40 pounds. “M.J. and I were so impressed with the integrity of the program, personal coaching, and the results, we decided to become Certified Health Coaches for Take Shape for Life,” Allen recalls. The Wilkersons’ goal is to pay it forward—to share hope that health and success can go hand in hand. It’s not about a diet; it’s about personal success and self-esteem. It’s about having a friend in your corner who is your coach and cheerleader, someone who is there to catch you when you fall and walk side by side with you. It’s all about “you” and your journey. M.J. and Allen Wilkerson invite all who wish to make a positive change in their health to personally contact them. The consultation is free and relaxed so you can discover if this is a good fit for you. Learn how you can be empowered to create the health you always wanted in your life.
Email mjwilkerson.healthcoach@gmail.com or call (619) 807-3280. www.CenterforExcellenceinLeadership.com
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OUR LOCAL BUSINESS SECTION Family services
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Need someone that speaks fluent insurance? Bernardo Vasquez, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0F45943 460 Third Avenue, Suite A Chula Vista, CA 91910 Bus: 619-425-6560 Cell: 619-876-0056
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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
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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
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RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT The Dennis Family
The human spirit is a powerful thing. It gives us strength when we’re weak and the will to overcome what appears impossible. Kiki Dennis knows firsthand the power of the human spirit. In 1997, Kiki’s husband Danial, Sr. was rear-ended by a vehicle while riding his motorcycle. That accident placed him in a coma for seven months until he died from his injuries. Sadly, at the same time, her two children, Danial, II (12) and Crystal (9) were rapidly losing their eye sight due to a genetically inherited chromosome. Kiki’s life was falling apart. “I felt the darkness of depression pull me down every day, further and further,” Kiki remembers. She recalls fighting back, saying to herself, “My children need me more now than ever.” Her recovery was an inspiration to her kids as they learned to live with limited vision. Danial tried to explain to teachers that he was losing his sight but felt his plea was seen as teenage sarcasm. When he transferred to a new school, he was required to take an eye exam, which is when his vision loss was discovered. He eventually ended up losing about 60 percent of his sight. This did not stop him from graduating with honors from Eastlake High School after receiving help from Sweetwater Academy for Individual Learning Styles (SAILS), known today as Options Secondary School. Danial went on to attend Mueller College and is now a licensed massage therapist.
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Crystal was not as fortunate, losing nearly 90 percent of her vision, but this did not slow her down. She also attended SAILS, graduated with honors, and then attended Southwestern College. She has taken a break from school to focus on her music career. As a child, she taught herself nearly all the words to countless Disney songs, practicing and performing them in her room. She was known as a shy girl but found the courage to perform at school talent shows and then private concerts. Crystal describes her sound as Celtic in style and trains regularly in Beverly Hills with vocal coach Dave Stroud, a well-known professional who has worked with artists from Justin Beiber to Grammy winner Pharrell Williams and Panatonix. Today, Danial is busy as a massage therapist, Kiki works multiple jobs, and Crystal is performing more to raise money to produce her first CD. Her most recent event was Songs of the Heart held at Community Congregational Church in Chula Vista in December.
The human spirit is alive and well in the Dennis family. When you hear Crystal sing, you’ll know what it’s like to be moved by the spirit.