FREE
JUNE 2017
Daddy
�
C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
dear
BOARDS & COMMISSIONS: MEASURE P CITIZENS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
CONTENTS/ EDITOR'S LETTER A few weeks ago, a good friend of my husband Mark’s passed away unexpectedly. Dave was 70 years old and regularly came to our home to work on projects with Mark. Dave didn’t have a son, and Mark’s father is no longer living. Yet, you wouldn’t know it seeing them together. The two spent countless hours working on model boats and organizing events for their club, the San Diego Argonauts. This issue honors the fathers and father figures in our lives. Some of you are parents, and some aren’t. But we all have the ability to mentor others. Mark found a mentor in his friend Dave. In turn, Mark also mentors a 15-year old young man. These relationships have been powerful and important.
J U N E 2 0 17
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
12 SCHOOL NEWS Showcasing Great Public Schools Childhood Obesity Decreases Music Video Premier
Kate Googins and Brooklyn Hawkins share stories about their dads in this issue—ways these men have inspired and challenged them. Another portion of our feature pays tribute to the YMCA and its role in creating a national holiday that honors dads.
16 FEATURE Dear Daddy
With Father’s Day approaching, consider how you can make a difference, either in the life of your own son or daughter, or in the lives of fatherless children. Whether you mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters, tutor at a local school or library, coach Little League or another sport, teach Sunday School or lead a youth group, you’ll be a consistent influence on young lives. And if you have children of your own, reach out to
21 ON TOPIC
them. Tell them you love them, once more.
Out & About
"It is not flesh and blood, but the heart which makes us fathers and sons." –Johann Friedrich von Schiller
Best Choice for Dad's Care
25 CALENDAR
26 BOARDS & COMMISSIONS Measure P Citizens
"He may have been your father boy, but he wasn't your daddy."
Oversight Committee
–Yondu Udonta to Star-Lord, from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
—AMBER WEBER, editor
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3
BRAVO
. . . great things happening in our community
PUBLISHED BY
Photos from left to right: A Night to Remember Prom attendees, and Optimist of the Year Winners: (Top Row): Dr. Francisco Escobedo (Superintendent, CVESD), Gary Sauer (President, Eastlake Optimist Club), Gloria McKearney (Principal, Olympic View Elementary School); (Third Row): April Romero (Chula Vista Hills), Jonathon Barra (Discovery), Dario Piagentini (Hedenkamp), Jose Luna (Veterans), Kenneth Thomas (Liberty), Kaelyn Lemley (Arroyo Vista); (Second Row): Nika Woehl (Salt Creek), Emma Perez (Otay), Ella Rodriguez (Eastlake); (Bottom Row): Loren Swisher (Olympic View), Mikial Hodges (Casillas), Jaime Gonzalez (Clear View), Miranda Burgos (Heritage), Felicity Muro (Marshall), Jaden Rabuco (Wolf Canyon), and Maya Long (Camarena).
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
MELISSA MONROY, Design
ASHLYN O'HARA, Intern
Advertising inquiries: Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com. Editorial Contributions: Amber Weber at Editor@OurHometownMag.com. Visit us online at www.OurHometownMag.com. Copyright 2017. 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 4 OtoUrefuse R H OMETOWN advertising. • J UNE Contact OHTM Inc. at (619) 840−7722.
2 0 17
› To the local high school STUDENTS
HONORED FOR THEIR WINNING PHOTOS at the Sweetwater Authority
(Authority) Governing Board meeting on May 10. More than 80 students from the Authority’s service area entered the annual water photo contest, which included a short essay about why water is an essential resource. The following students took the top honors: Color Photo Category: 1st Place: Melissa Gonzalez, Sweetwater High School, Grade 11 2nd Place: Diamond Garcia, Hilltop High School, Grade 10 3rd Place: Christian Corona, Hilltop High School, Grade 11 Honorable Mention: Chris Aguirre, Hilltop High School, Grade 11; Mason de Pedro, Hilltop High School, Grade 9; Elizabeth Jantz, Bonita Vista High School, Grade 11; Melissa Macias, Hilltop High School, Grade 10; Aaron Perez, Hilltop High School, Grade 11; Moses Valenzuela, Hilltop High School, Grade 10 Black & White Category: 1st Place: Craig Landry, Hilltop High School, Grade 11 2nd Place: Diamond Garcia, Hilltop High School, Grade 12 3rd Place: Dominique Martinez, Hilltop High School, Grade 11 Honorable Mention: Elizabeth Jantz, Bonita Vista High School, Grade 11; Jamell Thomas, Hilltop High School, Grade 12; Edgar Tovar, Hilltop High School, Grade 12; Jocelyn Uribe, Hilltop High School, Grade 12
To see all the winning photos, including the honorable mentions, visit www.sweetwater.org. The photos will be on display at the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center this summer.
› To the many SPONSORS,
DONORS, AND VOLUNTEERS WHO MADE A NIGHT TO REMEMBER PROM possible. On April 28, 850
students from over 70 high schools attended prom for students with special needs. This event was created by Rob and Cheryl Shields to pair students with special needs (honored guests) with a mainstream student (student hosts) to find mutual respect and understanding, and to honor and celebrate the honored guests with a first-class prom. This $80,000, over-the-top prom was made possible by donations and partnerships from area businesses and individual donors. Chick-fil-A and EastLake Church have generously supported the event since it started in 2011. The Stephen and Mary Birch Foundation, Las Primeras, Chula Vista Rotary Clubs, Novo Brazil, Lolitas, and many other business and private donors generously supported the event as well. In addition to the students that attended, over 600 volunteers came together to make this prom an unforgettable experience! A Night to Remember is hosting its 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament/Dinner & Auction on Oct. 20 at Salt Creek Golf Club. For more information, visit www. aNighttoRememberProm.com.
Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!
› To the students honored by the Eastlake Optimist Club and the Chula Vista Elementary School District for being an OPTIMIST OF THE YEAR. Sixth graders from 18 elementary schools were selected based on their school and community involvement and leadership, character, citizenship, and sportsmanship. Each student received a $50 bill and a medal in recognition of their achievement.
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.
The students and their respective schools include the following: April Romero (Chula Vista Hills), Jonathon Barra (Discovery), Dario Piagentini (Hedenkamp), Jose Luna (Veterans), Kenneth Thomas (Liberty), Kaelyn Lemley (Arroyo Vista), Nika Woehl (Salt Creek), Emma Perez (Otay), Ella Rodriguez (Eastlake), Loren Swisher (Olympic View), Mikial Hodges (Casillas), Jaime Gonzalez (Clear View), Miranda Burgos (Heritage), Felicity Muro (Marshall), Jaden Rabuco (Wolf Canyon), and Maya Long (Camarena).
› To the CITY OF CHULA VISTA for opening its newest park addition, Holiday Estates Tot Lot, located in the southwest region of the city. The new tot lot, suitable for those ages 2 to 12 years old, is designed as a “smart park” with playground equipment by PlayPower where kids can jump, slide and play on the equipment. In addition, parents and kids can connect to the Biba app allowing kids to follow cartoon-style images on the app to engage in physical activities, such as running up the stairs of a slide and then sliding back down, before checking back in with the app. Biba’s games are designed for “refereed play,” keeping the phone predominantly within the parent’s hands, so that the child won’t drop the phone or otherwise do anything unsafe with it. This form of fun encourages active outdoor play among children who have grown up with smart phones. Holidays Estates Tot Lot is located at 383 Connoley Circle in Chula Vista.
› To the AWARDEES OF THE 2017 ROTARY CLUB
OF CHULA VISTA SCHOLARSHIP FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT: Erwil Bongolan (Chula Vista High
School), Lilliana Conradi (Olympian High School), Kiara Bacasen (Otay Ranch High School), Patricia Bonilla (Castle Park High School), and Cheyenne Pence (Hilltop High School). THE 2017 ROTARY CLUB
OF CHULA VISTA JOSEPH RINDONE SCHOLARSHIP FOR SERVICE AWARD went to the following students:
Karina Marquez (Chula Vista High School), Lizeth Estrada (Olympian High School), Lizbeth Villar (Otay Ranch High School), Steffany Chavez (Castle Park High School), and Mihiri Kotikawatta (Hilltop High School). These students were selected based on outstanding academics and community service. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Mayor Gives 2017 State of the City Address
On May 2, Mayor Mary Casillas Salas presented her State of the City address. She began by recognizing Chula Vista’s landscapes and bayfront, its residents, City Council, City staff and volunteers. She then recognized accomplishments from the last year, including building and construction permits, parks, and economic development, before turning to academics, arts, and culture.“Our libraries served more than 900,000 library visitors in the past 12 months, a 10-year high. At our central library a groundbreaking partnership with the Chula Vista Elementary School District and Qualcomm, the Innovation Station, provides children with exciting opportunities to explore their creativity in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math. "The Chula Vista Heritage Museum opened an exhibit on history of the Rohr Company, with standing room only for the opening lecture and hundreds of visitors. And, more than 1,000 residents of all ages attended the “STEM in Your Own Backyard” a program offered at the Civic Center Library in cooperation with San Diego‘s Biocom Institute Festival of Science and Engineering… In support of the arts, we approved our First Cultural Arts Master Plan, awarded five McCandliss Arts Awards Scholarships and recognized 20 local artists for outstanding achievement in the Arts.” Mayor Salas praised efforts to develop “Smart City” policies to evaluate energy technologies and efficiency and to promote a healthy community through work led by the Healthy Chula Vista Advisory Committee. “These healthy lifestyles were showcased through initiatives like the Walk+Bike Chula Vista Program, a partnership with the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition and Circulate San Diego to educate, encourage and provide awareness to the benefits of walking and biking in Chula Vista” Chula Vista’s special events, including the July 4th Fest, HarborFest and Starlight Parade were recognized, as were youth sports. “We continue to benefit from a unique partnership with the Youth Sports Council, a volunteer group of parents and coaches that help us manage and allocate our sports fields among a number of sports leagues. 6 OU R H OMETOWN • J UNE 2 0 17
On your Doorstep
Get Ready to Rock at Village Walk Every Sunday June 11-July 16
“The Youth Sports Council represents more than 30,000 parents and coaches and provides organized team sports for 10,000 kids every year.” Also supporting sports, the City acquired the former U.S. Olympic Training Center, now the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, this year. Finally, the mayor remarked on the effects that the passage of Measure P, a temporary sales tax increase, will bring. Over ten years, this tax will raise about $175 million to replace fire engines, repave streets, support police officers, and much more. Mayor Salas ended her speech with, “This is Chula Vista. A beautiful community with a future as bright as our horizon.”
Village Walk’s popular Summer Sundays event will feature a variety of weekly activities including six different bands, six different car clubs, and a free photo booth where attendees can pose with a variety of props and receive a free photo strip of their experience. As in the past, this family friendly event will include special activities for children including free balloon sculptures, face painting, and creative craft activities where kids can decorate ceramic turtle banks, baseball hats, backpacks and more. Everyone attending Summer Sundays can enjoy the food and product samples provided by Village Walk merchants.
from Aerosmith to ZZ Top, Bruno Mars to Usher, Train to K.C. and The Sunshine Band, and Lenny Kravitz to Maroon 5. Graceland, featuring James King, is on the schedule for July 2. This band pays reverential and respectful homage to the memory of the King of Rock and Roll. Their goal is to take the listener back in time, ushering them into the presence of the great Elvis Presley. Joe Rathburn’s Island, a tropical rock band and
popular tradition at Village Walk, will take the stage on July 9 to share their unique blend of highenergy Caribbean music and the laid-back styles typified by Jimmy Buffett and Bob Marley. United Country will be the closing act with their performance on Sunday, July 16. This four-piece country band will play classic country favorites and new country sounds along with some classic rock and southern rock tunes.
New bands that will perform this year include the Navy’s 32nd Street Brass Band, Breez’n and United Country. Favorites that will be returning are Steal Dawn, Joe Rathburn’s Island, and Graceland featuring James King. Each week, a different car club will be featured, and the car displays will include Corvettes, Porsches, Italian exotics, and Model A’s as well as pickups and cruisers. The 32nd Street Brass Band will kick off the concert series on Sunday, June 11 with a taste of New Orleans as they perform upbeat music that incorporates the styles of jazz, funk, Dixieland and R&B. Breez’n will appear on June 18, performing a variety of standards, classics and contemporary music featuring jazz, blues, R&B, rock, pop, swing, tropical and Latin styles. Steal Dawn will perform on June 25. Their music style is diverse and their song list extensive--everything OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 7
On your Doorstep
Scripps Health Cuts Ribbon on New Woltman Diabetes Center Chula Vista facility focuses on education and research efforts
Political and business officials joined Scripps Health leaders on May 11 to cut the ribbon on the Woltman Family Diabetes Care and Prevention Center, which houses education and research efforts focusing on Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients and others at risk of developing the disease.
The Woltman Family Diabetes Care and Prevention Center ribbon cutting event featured (from left) Chula Vista Mayor Mary Casillas Salas; Athena Philis Tsimikas, M.D., corporate vice president for the Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute; Janine Bryant, district director for U.S. Rep. Juan Vargas; San Diego philanthropist Richard Woltman; Tom Gammiere, Scripps Mercy Hospital chief executive and senior vice president; Juan Tovar, M.D., Scripps Mercy Hospital medical director for quality and performance improvement careline; and Michael Sise, M.D., Scripps Mercy Hospital chief of staff.
8 OU R H OMETOWN • J UNE 2 0 17
About 60 people attended the event at the 1,100-square-foot center, which is located at 450 4th Avenue in Chula Vista. Guests included San Diego philanthropist Richard Woltman and his family, Chula Vista Mayor Mary Casillas Salas and representatives from the offices of U.S. Representative Juan Vargas and State Senator Ben Hueso. “We are grateful to the Woltman family for making this new center possible,” said Athena Philis-Tsimikaa, M.D., corporate vice president for the Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute. “The services and programs that we offer from this space serve hundreds of South County patients and are a valuable asset to a population that face[s] higher risks developing diabetes and prediabetes.”
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista City Council Unanimously Approves Support for Immigration Policies The Center was made possible by a generous $700,000 donation from Woltman. “My family and I are very pleased to be able to support the important diabetes care and research being done at Scripps,” Woltman said. “We know that the services delivered through the Center will improve the lives of patients and the overall health of the community. Nearly 4 million Californians have been diagnosed with diabetes and 46 percent of the state’s adults have prediabetes, making them at high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes and an increased risk for developing heart disease. In Chula Vista, about 26,000 people have diabetes.
A dozen nurses and staff members work at the Woltman Family Diabetes Care and Prevention Center, which includes a large education classroom, two outpatient consultation rooms and office space spread over the first and fourth floors. Regularly scheduled free classes at the Center for people with diabetes or at risk of developing the disease cover a range of topics including diet and nutrition, weight loss, exercise, blood sugar monitoring and control, and diabetes prevention.
About Scripps Health Founded in 1924 by philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps, Scripps HEALTH is a nonprofit integrated health care delivery system. Scripps treats more than 700,000 patients annually through the dedication of 3,000 affiliated physicians and more than 15,000 employees among its five acutecare hospital campuses, hospice and home health care services, 27 outpatient centers and clinics, and hundreds of affiliated physician offices throughout the region.
Action affirms existing policies and calls for communications program
The Chula Vista City Council has unanimously supported a resolution to affirm city policies regarding immigration enforcement and to join the “Welcoming America” network. The action further directed staff to develop and implement a program for better communication of City policies and services to the City’s immigrant community and to provide the City Council with opportunities to actively support or oppose laws to advance city interests and policies on immigration enforcement. “This unanimous decision demonstrates our City Council’s commitment to all of our residents,” said Chula Vista Mayor Mary Casillas Salas. “It was important to take this action to build awareness and communicate about existing policies and available resources.” On May 16, staff presented to the City Council a Communications Plan that will be implemented to inform residents about the City’s policies, actions and resources regarding the immigrant community. The resolution approved by the City Council included these seven points:
1. Consistent with the principles outlined in the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD)Mission Statement, and in Policy 428 of the CVPD Policy Manual, it is the official policy of the City of Chula Vista (City) that all residents of the City, regardless of their immigration status, shall be entitled to equal enforcement of the law and equal service, and that all shall be treated with fairness, respect and dignity. 2. It is the official policy of the City that CVPD contacts and arrests shall not be based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic or immigration status. 3. It is the official policy of the City that the CVPD shall not enforce immigration laws. 4. It is the official policy of the City that it is the responsibility of the federal government to enforce immigration laws. 5. City staff is authorized and directed to develop and implement a program to better communicate the official City policies set forth above to the public, and to better connect City residents in need with available immigration services and City services. 6. City staff is authorized and directed to join the “Welcoming America” network to demonstrate that the City values its immigrant and refugee residents and to help them to become a vital part of our economic and civic society. 7. City staff is authorized and directed to track and report back to the City Council on federal and state legislation that impacts City interests and policies on immigration enforcement, particularly local control of policing policies, protection of constitutional rights, and availability of funding, with an opportunity for the City Council to support actively or oppose same.
For more information, visit www.chulavistaca.gov/departments/ city-manager/welcoming.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Open Call for Veteran of the Year Award Nominations Nominations are now being accepted for the City of Chula Vista’s 2017-18 Veteran of the Year Award. Military veterans who are City residents or who work in the City of Chula Vista are eligible for the award selected by the Veterans Advisory Commission. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on June 30, 2017. For more information and to submit an application, please visit http://goo.gl/z1NDza. The City of Chula Vista has many permanent ways to recognize its veterans including Veterans Park at 785 East Palomar Street, which hosts a prominent “Walk of Honor” walkway paved with bricks inscribed with the names of veterans; Memorial Park, 373 Park Way, the City’s second oldest park dating back to 1937 and the site of the City’s Memorial Monument dedicated to armed forces; a Veterans Wing in the Civic Center Library at 365 F Street, which provides counseling space, updated veterans information and memorabilia, books and media materials; and more than 84 City streets in the communities of Sunbow, McMillin and Otay Ranch named to honor veterans. Chula Vista is also home to the Veterans Home of California– Chula Vista, one of eight dedicated Veterans Homes in California. The 400-bed, long-term care facility provides care to veterans in three areas: independent living, licensed residential, and skilled nursing care.
10 O U R HOMETOWN • JUNE 2 0 17
Chula Vista Public Library Plans "Reading By Design" Summer Reading Program
The Chula Vista Public Library will join libraries throughout California in hosting this year's Summer Reading Program, "Reading By Design." This STEAM-related theme follows the national approach to student learning that incorporates science, technology, engineering, art and math. The Chula Vista Library's three branches, Civic Center, South Chula Vista and Otay Ranch, are planning a number of entertaining, creative and educational events for various age groups. All activities are free of charge. Children, teens and adults can read for prizes from Saturday, June 3 through Saturday, July 15. All library cardholders are invited to sign up online at www.chulavistalibrary.com or in person at any of the three library branches. Participants can read for designated lengths of time and receive a prize at each level. Family members are also encouraged to read to those unable to read yet. In addition, the Civic Center and South Chula Vista Branches will serve free lunches from 12 to 1 p.m. and snacks from 3 to 3:30 p.m. for children ages one to 18, weekdays through the month of June. The summer lunch program is sponsored by the U.S Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the Chula Vista Elementary School District. The Friends of the Chula Vista Library sponsors many of the summer events. Events set for the summer include weeklong "STEAM Camps" at the Civic Center Branch, and six Monday-Thursday "Full STEAM Ahead" programs for children at the South Chula Vista Branch. The Otay Ranch Branch will host a series of STEAM-related construction challenges throughout the Summer Reading Program. All branches will host the wildly popular Mad Science handson science programs. Summer Reading Programs are traditional and fun ways for libraries to promote learning and reading over summer school breaks. Studies show that reading inspires
STEAM Camps for Kids Children in Chula Vista may soon be on summer break, but the Chula Vista Public Library makes learning fun with a series of free summer S.T.E.A.M. camps open to children ages ten and over, or in grades four through six. To register, send an email to librarian David Janning at djanning@ chulavista.lib.ca.us. Space is limited. Following are the dates and subjects: · Camp 1: Things That Go, held Monday, June 5 to Friday, June 9, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. · Camp 2: Engaging Energy, held Monday, June 19 to Friday, June 23, from10 a.m. to 12 noon. · Camp 3: LEGO Engineers, held Monday, July 3 to Friday, July 7, 10 a.m. to 12 noon (except for holiday closure on July 4).
For information on other activities and events offered by the Chula Vista Public Library, go to www.chulavistaca.gov/library.
creativity and a lifelong love of learning. It also helps children and teens retain and enhance reading skills gained during the school year, and promotes academic success in every area. With teens and adults joining, the Summer Reading Program encourages the entire family to read for pleasure, individually or together.
For more details on the summer activities, visit or call your nearest library branch: Civic Center Branch, 365 F Street, (619) 691-5069; South Chula Vista Branch, 389 Orange Avenue, (619) 585-5755; or Otay Ranch Branch, Otay Ranch Town Center, 2015 Birch Road, #409, (619) 397-5740. The calendar of events is available in each library and online at www.chulavistalibrary.com.
On your Doorstep
ï‚‚ Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
SCHOOL
/ News
The Time is Now to Showcase Great Public Schools By Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D., Superintendent, Chula Vista Elementary School District
Concerned about President Trump’s proposal for a nationwide voucher program that would give public money to private schools, the Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) countered with a multi-faceted campaign that showcased our great public schools. The campaign coincided with California’s designation of April as Public Schools Month. There is much to be proud about our public schools. Here is a partial list of our honors over the least year alone: one National Blue Ribbon School, two Golden Bell Awards from the California School Boards Association, three National Center
12 OU R HOMETOWN • JUNE 2 0 17
for Urban School Transformation award-winning schools, and four California Gold Ribbon Schools. CVESD also received recognition for world-class, dual language immersion programs, an ongoing renaissance in visual and performing arts programs, and cutting-edge partnerships such as Innovation Station, our collaboration with Qualcomm and the Chula Vista Library to engage students in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) careers. Yet, our success could be undermined if the proposed federal budget is approved. The President’s proposal would cut funds that states and school districts use to recruit, train, support,
and compensate teachers. After-school program funds are on the chopping block as well. Such cuts are proposed even as the President would make it easier for public funds to flow to private schools in the form of vouchers. The President has proposed allocating $250 million for the nationwide voucher program. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson recently noted that voucher programs would “take taxpayer dollars away from public schools, starving them of the resources they need to provide a first-class education to students.” California voters have twice voted down voucher ballot measures—and by large margins. Now, the feds want to undo what California voters already decided at the ballot box.
School News These awards also remind us of one of our nation’s greatest strengths: public education. F R E E P U B L I C E D U C AT I O N .
Rather than sit idly and await the outcome of a lengthy federal budget fight, Chula Vista launched an enrollment, marketing, and branding campaign with two primary objectives: to boost student enrollment at schools with excess capacity, and to retain students at schools that might be impacted by proposed changes in federal education policy. Our ongoing marketing campaign in CVESD includes greater outreach regarding registration for preschool, transitional kindergarten, and kindergarten for the 2017-18 school year, which began on March 1. Thirteen of our schools with excess capacity will receive an additional marketing focus. Out of 45 schools in our District, only a handful, primarily in eastern Chula
Vista, are not accepting students from out of the neighborhood. Public schools are an important hallmark of American greatness and ingenuity. Public Schools Month activities were carried out across the state. Locally, representatives of Chula Vista Masonic Lodge #626 presented citizenship awards on April 13 to sixthgrade students at 45 CVESD schools. Lodge members who take part in this visitation look forward to being a part of an uplifting program that highlights what we as Americans try to uphold— being good citizens. These awards also remind us of one of our nation’s greatest strengths: public education. Free public education. The fraternal
organization started some of the first public schools in America and advocated for legislation to help make education accessible to everyone. We recognize our approach is a direct challenge to the narrative of those who paint broadly about “failing public schools.” Our nation's leaders should recognize the overwhelming successes of our public school teachers, staff and students. In Chula Vista, we are confident our students will grow to become great citizens and great leaders because of their free public education. Let your family, friends, and neighbors know what is working for your children in our public schools and be part of our continual improvement. Support our great public schools.
OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
SCHOOL
/ News
When Less is More: Significant Decrease Seen in Childhood Obesity More CVESD students are in healthy weight category as obesity rates drop
Silver Wing Elementary third-grade students were breaking a sweat. They were jumping rope, executing lunges, and performing “bicycle” abdominal crunches—all in an effort to increase their knowledge and demonstrate their performance of key physical fitness components. The workout reflects the Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD)’s effort to increase students’ physical literacy, putting them on a path to becoming “fit for life.” A comprehensive six-year initiative to improve student health and wellness across the District has resulted in the most positive trends to date. The results of the District’s 2016 measurement of the height and weight of every preschool through sixth grade student were announced at a press conference recently at Silver Wing, co-hosted with the County Health and Human Services Agency. The data collection indicated that, compared to 2010, when the District first collected student Body Mass Index (BMI) data, CVESD recorded: • a 7.4% increase in students in the normal weight category; • an 8.0% decrease in students in the overweight category; and • a 17.1% decrease in students in the obese category. From 2014 to 2016, Silver Wing experienced the greatest reduction of students in the obese category and greatest increase of students in the normal weight category among District schools. Silver Wing recorded a 12.4% decrease in the overweight category, and a 20.3% decrease in the obese category, which is the equivalent of moving 30 students out of the respective weight categories. Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D., praised a “team effort” in impacting student health and wellness. Collaborative partners such as the City of Chula Vista, South Bay Family YMCA, and a bevy of hospital groups and health professionals all helped the cause. “We no longer have any ‘red’ schools,” Dr. Escobedo said. The reference was to the District’s colorcoded BMI maps, where obesity rates are layered over school attendance areas. 14 OU R HOMETOWN • J UNE 2 0 17
School News
Students Strut Red Carpet, Sign Autographs for Music Video Premiere
A music video that features students and staff from Clear View Elementary School was formally unveiled at a special “Red Carpet Premiere” recently held at the school. Beaming students channeled their inner “rock star” to strut the red carpet, pose at a “VIP” photo booth, sign autographs, and sing along with recording artist Mike Cothrine as he performed live. Then, for the music video premiere, students squealed in delight, pointed to themselves on screen, and sang to the video, called “One.” The video features Cothrine, who promotes a message of peace and unity. Much of the video was filmed at the school. At a time when schools across the country are grappling with issues of divisiveness, bullying, and self-harm, the video is a poignant reminder of the importance of supporting one another. “Of all the songs I have written, One is very personal to me,” Cothrine said. “It stands for what I stand for…My whole vision for this is to bring a little light into the world at this crazy time.” “I can’t believe I’m in a music video,” said one student, as she and her friends screamed. Others gleefully pointed to classmates who had longer camera shots. After the event, parents took photos of their children with Cothrine.
In 2010, five “red” schools, where more than 30 percent of students were obese, comprised a swath of west Chula Vista. In some schools, as many as 40 percent of students were obese—data that produced gasps at parent presentations. CVESD’s Board believes that schools play a critical role in curbing a national epidemic of childhood obesity. With this in mind, the Board in May 2012 approved an overhaul to the District’s Wellness Policy. Key changes included a ban on flavored milk in school cafeterias; prohibition of food while celebrating a student’s birthday during the school day; and no more than two parties/celebrations with food for each class, per school year. The outcomes in Chula Vista are encouraging, but the work is not finished, Dr. Escobedo said. “The students are learning and adopting behaviors that they will carry with them into adulthood and hopefully pass on to their own children,” he said.
The song’s positive message was noted by leaders of the Chula Vista Elementary School District. “No matter what origin you come from, no matter what zip code, gender—we all are one,” Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D., told those in attendance. “Chula Vista believes that. We believe that Each Child is an Individual of Great Worth. All of you are individuals of great worth. This video represents that vision and that mission.” The District’s Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) department will receive 50 percent of the sales of iTunes downloads of the song during a 30-day campaign that started on May 19. The proceeds will help fund VAPA programs in the schools. Funds are needed to assist in the purchase of art supplies, costumes for theater productions, materials for props and sets, and music supplies. “Our VAPA programs make a tremendous difference in the lives of our students,” said Lauren Shelton, the District’s VAPA coordinator. “With the community’s support, we can strengthen and enhance our programs across the District.”
The music video is available on YouTube at youtu.be/YjkhYy8vNQc. When in the iTunes store, search for One - Mike Cothrine as pictured: OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 15
dear
16 OU R HOMETOWN • J UNE 2 0 17
�
Daddy
We did it! By Kate Googins
We all agreed that Queenstown Public House in Little Italy has great sangria. “Dad dates” had changed a bit since my brother and I became old enough to drink. There was something that still felt a bit careless about it—sipping fruity, fortified wine with my baby brother and goofy, straight-edged dad. As we sat out on the patio to enjoy one of those fantastically sunny San Diego afternoons, he hatched a plan.
“I’ve floated this idea by you once or twice before,” Dad says, “but I really want to talk about how we can make it work: a big family trip. To climb Kilimanjaro, the three of us and your grandpa.” A family trip to Mt. Kilimanjaro—my dad, my brother, myself, and my 79-year old grandfather—smashed into airplane seats and bounced around in a dusty Land Cruiser to the base of the 19,341-foot mountain, the highest in Africa. And then to climb it—to the top, together. The whole adventure would take just over two weeks. What a crew! What a trip! A trip of a lifetime, we would respond in chorus to the casual enquirer. Did Dad know? Did he realize that our adventure to the top of Africa would push us to our limits, and closer to each other? Surely he saw the audacity of it, but he also had the vision, certainly before I did, to see how the demands of this goal would encourage each of us out of our comfort zone and into the shared space of a common goal. From planning, to training, to actually doing the thing, I delighted in these new exercises of my familial relationships. Deposits were paid and the training plans were organized into spreadsheets. We took family trips to REI, fascinated by the technical aspects of down jackets, hiking boots, and waterproof pants. We took family hikes to local peaks, getting used to our new gear and our new hiking partners. We had family planning meetings, holding each other accountable for logistics like trip insurance, vaccinations, and visa requirements. We discussed altitude sickness and what to do when one of us may not be able to continue.
With anticipation, the four of us boarded the plane in San Diego. My stepmom made us team t-shirts: Team Risk—a tongue-in-cheek homage to the seemingly ridiculous proposition of our journey. I remember the hike itself as sometimes scary, always a challenge, and sublimely beautiful. On the day we traversed a particularly treacherous section of the trail, the Barranco Wall, a fellow hiker just a few hundred yards in front of us suffered a terrible fall down the sheer rock face, her family looking on. The incident made each of us even more aware of how dearly we held onto each other. Our grandpa had left our hiking group a few days before to return to the base of the mountain after some seriously steep trails and achingly long days. A quiet seriousness hung thickly between my dad, brother, and me for the last few days to the top. And then, the top. We started our final ascent near midnight, hiking on a cold, still night in a single-file line. Addled with altitude, my stomach in knots, and my legs seemingly twisted, we continued in the quiet and the dark of the night. During that final push, I remember thinking back to our lunchtime meeting on that sunny patio in San Diego, a world away. An idea that became a plan had formed real and new lines of connection— to myself, to my family, and to my Dad. When we crested the steepest part of the trail, the sun began to rise, and the summit came into view. The glaciers around us took on the orange-pink of the sky, and the rocks shared their strange shadows with our team. It was surreally beautiful, and we were nearly there. Altitude made me delirious at the summit, but it couldn’t dim the sheer giddiness that I felt at the top. Embracing my dad and brother, I cried with joy. With grandpa on my mind, the three of us shared in the unbridled joy of accomplishment. We did it! And we did it together. What a gift Dad gave to us. His idea broke the boundaries of what I thought I could do—what I thought we could do. This trip of a lifetime created memories of a lifetime, and a new life for the relationships I have with my family. We haven’t done a whole lot of hiking since Kilimanjaro this past February, but I can’t wait for the next family adventure— Aconcogua (elevation: 22,841 ft.) in 2020? OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17
dear
Dad,
By Brooklyn Hawkins
I want to start off by saying thank you for always being there for me. You have not made me go a day without a father in my life. You have and continue to teach me how to be loved. Dad, you were the first man I ever loved. You held me, played with me, supported me and let me grow. Your constant patience, quiet notion of complete understanding and unwavering love remind me I'll never have to go through anything alone. You have always taught me to be strong. Whenever we went to the doctor and I was scared, you would hold my hand and smile after making some silly joke to let me know that I’m okay and that I can do this. You have always taught me that I can be fearless, even when I’m at my weakest. You have always believed in me, that someday I would do great things for this world. For you, I have tried every year not to let you down. Thank you for giving me the opportunities you did not have growing up, especially in sports. Thank you for buying me my first pair of cleats, teaching me the game of football, and my first lessons about dedication and hard work. You taught me what potential is and what it means to work hard for something you love. Thank you for making me a coachable athlete and, even though I hate to admit it, always being right. You are a great father and a great coach. Without you I wouldn't be where I am today. I started varsity kicker as a sophomore at Bonita Vista High School with you being my coach. You've always had faith in me no matter what others have said. When I was doubting myself about being a kicker, you reassured me that I couldn't be beat because I'd never be outworked. In my first game on varsity when I made my very first PAT* you couldn't help but cheer and scream on the sideline, while the other coaches told you to settle down. You've always had faith in me and pushed me to excel in everything I did, whether it was soccer, football, or school. Every time I did something I could hear your voice in the back of my head telling me to keep pushing and never give up. You’ve always told me I was good, but I could always get better. So thank you for making me watch football with you every Sunday, for teaching me how to be a coachable athlete and a great person off the field, and for NEVER losing faith in me. I love you Coach Hawkins! Thank you for being my DAD!
18 O U R HOMETOWN • JUNE 2 0 17
* point
after touchdown
( extr a
point )
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
This Father’s Day,
Think YMCA By Ariyani Valente Martin
When people think of Father’s Day, images of a dad holding a child’s hand or a family barbecue come to mind. The last thing on people’s minds is the YMCA, but perhaps it should be since the YMCA invented Father’s Day. In 1909, Sonora Louise Smart sat in a pulpit at her church in Spokane, Washington on Mother’s Day and wondered why there wasn’t a similar day celebrating fathers. Smart was the daughter of a Civil War veteran whose wife passed away, leaving him to raise Sonora and her five siblings alone. Smart presented the idea of celebrating fathers on a specific day through special meals and small gifts to the Spokane YMCA and Spokane Ministerial Alliance, who embraced it. Smart initially wanted the day to be on her father’s birthday on June 5, but ultimately it fell on the third Sunday in June, as the organizers needed time to prepare sermons. The nation’s first Father’s Day celebration took place on June 19, 1910 at the Spokane YMCA. As the idea of celebrating fathers gained traction, more individuals adopted the holiday. In 1972, President Richard Nixon officially signed Father’s Day into law, making it a national holiday. “Today, the Y continues to embrace celebrating families and bringing them closer together. The concept of celebrating fathers aligns with the Y’s values and programs we offer. From parent-child classes to dads coaching in our sports programs, they are active in helping raise their children and instilling strong values,” said Laurie Goganzer, Regional Vice-President of the YMCA in South County. Numerous studies have shown that children with involved fathers tend to do better in school and develop stronger social-emotional skills. According to a study from the University of Illinois, children with fathers who inquire about school and the day-to-day social activities of 20 O U R HOMETOWN • J UNE 2 0 17
ON TOPIC Making the Best Possible Choice for Dad’s Care By Sophia Anguiano, ActivCare at Rolling Hills Ranch
their child perform better academically than those without a father expressing that level of interest. Additionally, the Father Involvement Initiative reported that children with involved fathers tolerate stress more effectively and are better able to manage their emotions and impulses. This Father’s Day, give your dad a hug, and quietly thank Sonora Louise Smart and the YMCA for starting this wonderful holiday that celebrates everything “dad.” If you want to celebrate Father’s Day at the YMCA, all branches are free and open to the community. Spend time with your dad exercising or at the pool at your local Y at no cost. Happy Father’s Day!
Fathers are protectors and look out for their family’s best interests. When a father is affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia, the family wants to provide the same protective care for him.
Are the caregivers capable and competent? Caregiving for someone with dementia is one of the most difficult jobs, and here is why: You must be alert, insightful and aware at all times.
Deciding whether the everyday care and monitoring of a father or husband should be in the hands of full-time professionals is difficult and complex. Many factors feed into evaluating the best environment and location for safe, compassionate and successful care for those with memory loss and physical care needs.
What is the back-up plan? When the wife is sick, when the paid caregiver doesn’t show up, when the daughter goes on vacation, who will take over the daily care for Dad? Caregiving for someone with dementia is a seven-days-a-week, 24-hours-aday commitment.
Staying at home with care and support from family members, friends and/or paid private-duty caregivers is usually the first step when attempting to structure care and support for a family member with dementia. In many cases, those arrangements and plans can be successful for a period of time but may not endure with the progression of the disease. Ask yourself these questions when evaluating care support at home initially and over time: Is it safe? Are the home setting and physical environment safe for the current and future needs of the person with dementia? Wandering should be one of the biggest concerns and issues to protect against.
Is it the best scenario for all involved? Caregivers give showers and help dress, dispense medications, monitor nutrition, and assist with toileting. If you are not willing to gently nudge and be consistent in daily care, you may not be the right person to take on a caregiving role. We were not all born to be caregivers. For each endeavor and challenge in life that we face, there is a “right” person for the job. Sometimes it is not us. Take the time to look inward, make the time to talk with family members, consider all the factors and the desired outcomes, and find the “right” people, place and environment for those you love that need care.
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
22 O U R HOMETOWN • JUNE 2 0 17
ï‚‚ Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 23
24 O U R HOMETOWN • JUNE 2 0 17
OUT & ABOUT
JUNE S.T.E.A.M. CAMPS FOR KIDS @ 10 a.m. – noon @ Civic Center Branch Library, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. Make learning fun with a series of hands-on science, technology, engineering, art and math sessions. The five-day learning programs are free of charge and open to children ages 10+, or in grades four through six. Camp 1 (Things That Go) is held 06/05 – 06/09 and Camp 2 (Engaging Energy) is from 06/19 – 06/23. To register, send an email to librarian David Janning at djanning@chulavista.lib.ca.us. Space is limited.
08
READING BY DESIGN SUMMER READING PROGRAM @ all Chula Vista Public Library Branches. From June 3 to July 15, all members of the family can read to earn prizes. Sign up at chulavistalibrary.com or in person at any of the library branches.
11
05
BEDTIME STORIES @ 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. @ Bonita-Sunnyside Library, 4375 Bonita Road in Bonita. This fall, the Bonita Library is proud to debut a NEW story time offering. Join on Monday evenings for stories, songs and fun!
08
SMART CITIES FORUM @ 8:30 – 10 a.m. @ Chula Vista City Council Chambers, 276 Fourth Avenue in Chula Vista. Find out how new technology will benefit your business and better your quality of life. Learn about procurement challenges and opportunities, and hear about the public/private market. Due to limited seating, please RSVP to South County EDC at (619) 424-5143 or email SCEDC@ SouthCountyEDC.com.
CHULA VISTA CHAMBER MIXER @ 5:30–7:30 p.m. Mix, mingle and meet future business partners. $10 for members and $20 for nonmembers. Hosted by Miguel's Cocina, 970 Eastlake Parkway in Chula Vista. MARINE CORPS LEAGUE DETACHMENT 1207 MEETING @ 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. @ Bldg F, Veteran's Home, 700 E Naples Court in Chula Vista. Join former and retired Marines/Navy/ Army/Air Force. Call (619) 2279535 with questions. KIDS FISHING DERBY @ 6:30 a.m. – noon @ Bayside Parkway, J Street Pier in Chula Vista. This free event is open to children ages 5-15, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Prizes for largest fish and bait are provided. Loaner gear is available. For more info or to register, contact PortFishingDerby@gmail.com. SUMMER SUNDAYS AT VILLAGE WALK @ 5 – 7 p.m. at Village Walk, on Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive. Musical performance by Navy’s Southwest 32nd Street Brass Band and Car Club Exhibit by Corvette Owners Club. Free ceramic turtle bank craft activity, face painting and balloon sculptures for the kids. Don’t miss the free photo booth and merchant samples.
18
HAPPY FATHERS DAY!
SUMMER SUNDAYS AT VILLAGE WALK @ 5 – 7 p.m. at Village Walk, on Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive. Musical performance by Breez’n and Car Club Exhibit by the Porsche Club of America. Free baseball hat craft activity, face painting and balloon sculptures for the kids. Don’t miss the free photo booth and merchant samples.
24
33RD ANNUAL BONITA 5K AND JUNIOR 1K @ 7:30 a.m. @ Rohr Park, 4548 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. This flat and fast race starts and ends at Lot C. The race will be chip timed and a t-shirt is included. Proceeds benefit local high schools’ athletic programs. For more info, visit www. bonitaroadrunners.com/ race_info.html SUMMER SUNDAYS AT VILLAGE WALK @ 5 – 7 p.m. at Village Walk, on Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive. Musical performance by Steel Dawn and Car Club Exhibit by the Pick Ups Ltd. Free shopping bag craft activity, face painting and balloon sculptures for the kids. Don’t miss the free photo booth and merchant samples.
25
13
FOSTER PARENT ORIENTATION @ 6 – 8:15 p.m. @ Bonita-Sunnyside Library, 4375 Bonita Road in Bonita. New Alternatives Foster Family Agency presents free informational sessions on how to become a foster parent. For registration and information, call (888) 599-4663.
FOLLOW @OURHOMETOWNCHULAVISTA ON FACEBOOK! PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
SAVE THE DATE JULY 02 SUMMER SUNDAYS AT VILLAGE WALK @ 5 – 7 p.m. at Village Walk, on Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive. Musical performance by Graceland and Car Club Exhibit by the Model A Restorer’s Club of San Diego and San Diego Antique Motorcycle Club. Free canvas drawstring backpack craft activity, face painting and balloon sculptures for the kids. Don’t miss the free photo booth and merchant samples.
JULY 03-07 S.T.E.A.M. CAMP FOR KIDS @ 10 a.m. – noon @ Civic Center Branch Library, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. Make learning fun with this fiveday “LEGO Engineers” camp for children ages 10+, or in grades four through six. Camp is free of charge. To register, send an email to librarian David Janning at djanning@ chulavista.lib.ca.us. Space is limited. For information on other activities and events offered by the Chula Vista Public Library, go to www. chulavistaca.gov/library.
RECOGNIZE YOUR CHULA VISTA VETERAN Nominations are now open for the City of Chula Vista Veteran of the Year. For application and details, please visit http://bit.ly/ CV-Veteran-of-the-Year. Deadline for submission is June 30, 2017.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 25
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEASURE P CITIZENS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
Thanks to Measure P, much-needed improvements to streets, April meeting, the Committee reviewed the City Manager's parks, recreation centers, sports fields and more are underway. proposed Measure P budget for fiscal year 2017-18 and Measure P–Chula Vista’s ten-year, halfaffirmed that the $60.6 million cent sales tax for infrastructure–will bring proposed budget is in compliance in $178 million to repair and replace City with the Infrastructure, Facilities and infrastructure. A new committee has been Equipment Expenditure Plan adopted established to review and report on these by the City Council in December. An estimated $178 expenditures. The 16-member Measure P million will be collected Citizens Oversight Committee (COC) has Eleven of the COC members are during the ten-year elected officers and held two meetings “designated members” who were period and is intended since being sworn in by the Chula Vista nominated by local organizations to be used to upgrade City Council on March 7. and individuals such as the Chula police, fire, paramedic Vista Chamber of Commerce, Chula and 9-1-1 equipment, The COC will review and report on all Vista Youth Sports Council, Chula vehicles and facilities; Measure P expenditure plans, financial Vista Growth Management Oversight reports, and audits for compliance with Commission, and the Chula Vista fund streets and Measure P. Approved by 68 percent of Police and Fire chiefs. The remaining sidewalks; replace Chula Vista voters in November 2016, five “at-large members” were selected storm drains to prevent an estimated $178 million will be from a pool of applicants who applied sinkholes; improve collected during the ten-year period and directly to the City. The City Council parks; repair recreation is intended to be used to upgrade police, interviewed and appointed each of the facilities; and repair fire, paramedic and 9-1-1 equipment, 16 members. or replace other City vehicles and facilities; fund streets infrastructure. and sidewalks; replace storm drains to Future meetings of the COC will be held on prevent sinkholes; improve parks; repair the fourth Thursday every other month in 2017 recreation facilities; and repair or replace beginning July 27, with plans to meet quarterly other City infrastructure. in subsequent years in January, April, July and Elected COC Chair is Christopher Redo, Vice Chair is Leon Firsht, and Second Vice Chair is David Garcias. At its
26 O U R HOMETOWN • J UNE 2 0 17
October. Collection of the sales tax began April 1, 2017. Additional information about the COC and Measure P is available at www.chulavistaca.gov/MeasureP.