Our Hometown Chula Vista - July 2016 by OurHometownMag

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JULY 2016

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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: DAPHNE'S CALIFORNIA GREEK LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT: CHULA VISTA KIWANIS CLUB

CONTENTS/ EDITOR'S LETTER It seems like summer has just begun, but July is already back-to-school month! As we celebrate Independence Day, let’s acknowledge some of the many forms independence comes in:

14 WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL...

• A child going to school for the first time. • A parent telling her child goodbye on the first day of school. • A middle or high school student going to a new school where he is no longer one of the oldest. • A senior graduating and choosing what to do with her life. College? Career? • Moving out of one’s childhood home and into a first apartment. • Getting that first paycheck from a new job. • Becoming an “empty nester” when your grown child leaves home. • Retiring after years of working. And the list goes on. Some of our greatest, most defining moments occur from independence— breaking out of the cocoon and flying free. But the greatest gift of independence is that which our nation’s founding fathers gave us, and which our U.S. Armed Forces servicemen and women defend on a daily basis. This July, let go of your fears of getting older or trying something new. Embrace your independence. But don’t forget that you are free to choose that path because our forefathers literally fought for that independence. Make wise choices when you vote, as you raise your kids and as you influence others so that we can keep it. Happy Independence Day!

J U LY 2 0 1 6

04 BRAVO Announcements

06 NEWS On your Doorstep

12 SCHOOL NEWS Groundbreaking Celebration Military Family Advocate

14 FEATURE Growing Independence

20 ON TOPIC Independent at 101

22 CALENDAR Out & About

24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT Daphne's California Greek

26 LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT Chula Vista Kiwanis Club

—AMBER WEBER, editor

OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3

BRAVO

great things happening in our community

› To local brewery, NOVO BRAZIL BREWING COMPANY, for

› To BRIANA PRADO, a recently graduated senior at Eastlake High

earning worldwide honors at the 2016 World Beer Cup competition. Its Corvo Negro beer was selected by judges as a Bronze Medal winner at the competition held in Philadelphia in May. Awards given at the World Beer Cup are considered the beer industry’s most prestigious, and the World Beer Cup’s competition is considered the world’s most competitive, with more than 2,000 breweries posting 6,500 entries from 63 countries in 95 different categories.

School, who received the 2016 San Diego Youth Entrepreneur of the Year award and a $2,000 scholarship from EY on June 20. Briana's business idea won first place in the California Foundation Fund's FutureBoss Youth Entrepreneurship Scholarship Competition. Her business plan for a window screen repair service demonstrated a unique value proposition, competitive advantage and easy-to-monetize strategy, and won her a $1,000 scholarship prize from the California Foundation Fund.

“I am honored that our Corvo Negro is being recognized as one of the best British Style Imperial Stouts,” said General Manager and Partner Morise Gusmao. “I am also thrilled about our win, because the competition at the World Beer Cup is without a doubt the toughest competition in the entire beer industry; winning here doesn’t just mean that you are one of the best beers, it means that you are one of the best beers in the world.”

Novo Brazil Brewery opened in Chula Vista in 2015 at 901 Lane Avenue, Suite 1. For more info, email morise@novobrazilbrewing.com or visit www.worldbeercup.org.

› To the ten graduating students who

Briana, a resident of Chula Vista, has also turned her passion for music into a business. As part of the Sweetwater District Symphonic Orchestra for four years, she put her business skills to use by offering violin lessons to younger orchestra students at a perhour rate. Also passionate about the environment, she founded the Outdoors Club to fix her school's abandoned greenhouse.

Now in its 30th year, the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Program recognizes exceptional business leaders in more than 145 cities in more than 60 countries. Entrepreneurs are celebrated for excellence in areas such as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities. For more info, visit www. ey.com/US/en/About-us/Entrepreneurship/ Entrepreneur-Of-The-Year.

were awarded generous scholarships by the Rotary Club of Chula Vista. These scholarships, named after past Top: The Rotary Club of Chula Vista Scholarship recipients; Middle: Superintendent Joseph Rindone, Briana Prado, San Diego Youth Entrepreneur of the Year award; were for either exceptional academic Bottom: Students recognized at the 13th Annual Elementary School achievements or outstanding › To Funeraria Del Angel Humphrey Student Recognition Awards program. community service. The Sweetwater for hosting the Fifth Annual City Union High School District recipients Employee Appreciation Day BBQ on were NATHAN HUTCHINS and Wednesday, June 15. The event was a HAROLD MUNIZ from Castle Park High School, RICARDO tribute to all city employees and first responders who have dedicated ACUNA and ASHLEY UGARTECHE from Chula Vista High their time and efforts to serve the community of Chula Vista. School, AMY EPPERT and KIM SAMALA from Hilltop High School, ADRIAN MEZA and ERIN MAE BACASEN from Otay “Words cannot describe how grateful we are to have a town full of Ranch High School, and JANESSA DUQUE and HUMBERTO great employees and first responders,” said Alex Escalera, general CASTORENA from Olympian High School. manager at Funeraria Del Angel Humphrey. “Not only are we saying ‘thank you’ to all of those who dedicate their time and effort On May 5, awardees were treated to a Rotary lunch and a $1,200 to keep the city safe and prospering, but it is also an attempt to bring scholarship presented by Rotary Scholarship Committee Chair the community together. Chula Vista is a great home for many, and Bill Padelford and Club President David Hoffman. together, we can make it even better.” 4 O U R H OMETOWN • J ULY 20 16

SEND US YOUR GOOD NEWS! Email editor@ourhometownmag.com

prior to the 5th of the month and we will do our best to put the good news in an upcoming issue.

Established in 2011, Funeraria Del Angel Humphrey's Appreciation Day BBQ has grown in size each year. Thank you, Chula Vista Police Department and Chula Vista Fire Department, for your time and sacrifice for the community!

› To local high school students honored at the Sweetwater Authority Governing Board meeting on May 11. Students from the Authority’s service area were invited to enter the annual water photo contest that included a short written essay about the importance of conserving water. The following students took the top honors: Color Photo Category: 1st place: GEORGE URIBE, Hilltop High School, Grade 12; 2nd place: NYAH COSTELLO, Hilltop High School, Grade 9; 3rd Place, AMY EPPERT, Hilltop High School, Grade 12; Honorable Mention: GRACE FRASER, Hilltop High School, Grade 12; Honorable Mention: STEPHANIE FLORES, Hilltop High School, Grade 10. Black

White

Category: 1st place: CHRISTOPHER DI SENSO, Bonita Vista High School, Grade 11; 2nd place: ANGELA MEZA, Hilltop High School, Grade 9; 3rd place: ANTHONY BISCHLER, MAAC Community Charter School, Grade 12; Honorable Mention: NYAH COSTELLO, Hilltop High School, Grade 9; Honorable Mention: RAMON GARCIA, Sweetwater High School, Grade 12.

To see the winning photos, visit www.sweetwater.org, and click on the “Education” link. The photos will be on display at the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center this summer.

› To SOUND UNLIMITED, Bonita Vista High School (BVHS)’s elite women’s show choir, for winning the Southern California Championship. Congratulations also to BVHS MUSIC MACHINE standouts Isabel Rodriguez and Evan Beck, who were named Outstanding Singer and Outstanding Performer at the event held April 16-17 at the San Diego Convention Center. Music Machine musicians were also named Best Band at the gathering that featured several current and recent national champions.

PUBLISHED BY:

Melissa Wildasin of Sound Unlimited won the award for Best Female Performer. Days earlier Music Machine singers Dayna Hill and Shae-Lin Carr finished fifth and sixth in the state at the John Burroughs Soloists Showcase in Burbank. California’s 50 best male and female high school singers competed in one master category. BVHS freshman Kaede Muller finished in the top 15. Music Machine grabbed third placed at this year’s SoCal Championships, finishing behind national champs Los Alamitos and Burbank.

MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher

› To the students recognized by the Bonita Optimist Club as part of the Optimist International Student Appreciation program. The Thirteenth Annual

AMBER WEBER, Editor

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENT RECOGNITION AWARDS PROGRAM was held on May 11 at Valley Vista Elementary School. Chula Vista Councilman John McMann; Dr. Francisco Escobedo, Superintendent of the Chula Vista Elementary School District; and Dr. Carmen Emery, Principal of Valley Vista Elementary School spoke at the ceremony. Bonita Vista High School’s Sound Machine sang the National Anthem and Optimist members Buffy Parker and Dan Vaccaro facilitated the event. The purpose of the program is to publicly honor one student each from 17 area elementary schools who best exemplifies the principles of citizenship, character, leadership and sportsmanship. The following students were recognized: Haylee Ablog Daniel Ortiz Luisa Benitez Alicia Urquiza Aaron Urzua Narlis Eneran Yzabella Merino Abishai Kubilis Kai Khommorath Dominick Carlucci Adriana Martinez April Santiago Emiliano Martinez Mikaela Macias Emily Ingco Mirayah Villalpando Samantha Capetillo

Allen Elementary Castle Park Elementary Cook Elementary Feaster Charter School Halecrest Elementary Harborside Elementary Hilltop Drive Elementary Kellogg Elementary Mueller Charter School Pilgrim Lutheran School Rice Elementary Rosebank Elementary St. Pius X School St. Rose of Lima School Sunnyside Elementary Valley Vista Elementary Vista Square Elementary

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 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. OHTM Inc. is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or advertisers. OHTM Inc has the right to refuse advertising. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5 Contact OHTM Inc. at (619) 840−7722.

NEWS

/ On your Doorstep

SWIM SAFETY ESSENTIALS FOR SUMMER MONTHS By Melina Isbell

Summer has officially arrived, and whether your family prefers the beach, the swimming pool, water parks or splash pads, H2O is all around us. Water activities are probably on your recreational horizon, but because it's peak swim season, it's important to keep these basic water safety tips in mind: Always protect your family from the blazing Southern California sun. Whenever possible dress in long sleeved, lightweight, UV-protective gear and accessories, e.g., rash guards, brimmed hats and sunglasses, and don't skimp on sunscreen. Keep everyone hydrated, and make sure to take breaks. It's easy for children to get caught up in the excitement of swimming and water games, and not realize their physical limitations before finding themselves in a dangerous situation. Brush up on your CPR and first aid knowledge. Online information and classes can be found on the American Red Cross website at www.redcross.org. Supervise your children closely anytime they are in or around water. Drowning can happen silently and very quickly. Never turn away, and never allow yourself to get distracted when supervising a child. In only takes a moment. If you own a pool or hot tub, secure or remove access to children who aren't always under your watchful eye. Install proper fencing, and establish firm rules with older children, e.g., they must always ask for permission before getting in the water. Check the American Academy of Pediatrics website for recommended accessibility and safety specifications at www.aap.org. Most importantly, give your children the swim skills and water safety knowledge they need to live in Southern California by enrolling in some form of instruction. Knowing how to swim, especially here, is not a luxuryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; It's a necessity. Enrolling in age-appropriate swim lessons is the best thing you can do to ensure safe and fun summer seasons, year after year!

Now open in Eastlake: SafeSplash Swim School is the nation's fastest growing swim school and offers classes to children and adults of all ages and swim levels. For more info and for a free, 15-minute, swim-level evaluation, please visit safesplash.com/ locations/eastlake or call (619)736-6710. 6 OU R H OMETOWN â&#x20AC;˘ J ULY 20 16

On your Doorstep

OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 7

On your Doorstep

KINDERGARTEN BOOT CAMP

The Chula Vista Public Library is hosting its award-winning Kindergarten Boot Camp during the summer months. These kindergarten readiness sessions are for children who will be entering kindergarten in 2016 and will focus on motor skills that prepare young ones for school. The free, educational program is a partnership between the Library and Altrusa International of Chula Vista. In the past year, Altrusa won the second prize internationally in the Letha H. Brown Literacy Award for its work in the Kindergarten Boot Camp program. Children will participate in activities that are designed to familiarize them with the kindergarten classroom environment and materials. These activities are selected to allow children to practice working in a large group, small groups and individually, as they will in a kindergarten classroom, and are specifically chosen to foster skills in all areas of development such as social/emotional, cognitive and fine/gross motor skills. Many studies show that success in kindergarten leads to school success later on. The first few years of education and preparedness are crucial to setting a solid foundation for adapting to school and learning, emotionally and academically. At the library’s Kindergarten Boot Camp, children will meet new friends, learn the first steps toward school success, and build social skills–all while having fun.

The South Chula Vista Branch, 389 Orange Avenue, will offer its next session from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, July 5-7 and Monday through Thursday, July 11-14. Parents are asked to register online at www.chulavistalibrary.com or by calling (619) 585-5755.

Chula Vista Enters Age-Friendly Communities Network This article is the fourth in a series of monthly Healthy Chula Vista highlights. Find out more at www. chulavistaca.gov/healthycv. One in five individuals is anticipated to be 65+ across the country by 2030. As a result of these changing demographics and concerns about the readiness of communities to serve the growing population of older adults, the World Health Organization and American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) have partnered to create a network of age-friendly communities across the nation and world. In May, Chula Vista committed to entering that network and developing a plan to make Chula Vista livable throughout residents’ lives. The effort is a natural fit under the Healthy Chula Vista Action Plan focus area of “Engagement” to encourage residents and community partnerships with greater education on health issues and community involvement. The pillars of an agefriendly community and its eight domains of livability include: • • • • • • • •

outdoor spaces and buildings transportation housing social participation respect and social inclusion civic participation and employment communication and information community support and health services

The entrance into the network will provide the City with additional resources through AARP and funding through the San Diego Foundation to educate, encourage, promote and recognize improvements that can help make our community more supportive for older adults and persons of all ages. Monthly neighborhood dialogues at local businesses (“community cafés”) and walking surveys of neighborhoods (“walking audits”) are anticipated starting this fall to allow City staff and residents opportunities to discuss each of the eight domains and begin developing the plan over the next two years. Keep an eye out in Our Hometown’s calendar for upcoming events!

To learn more, visit www.chulavistaca.gov/agefriendly. 8 OU R H OMETOWN • J ULY 20 16

On your Doorstep

SPOTLIGHT ON CHULA VISTA POLICE ACTIVITIES LEAGUE

The Chula Vista Police Activities League (CVPAL) is a 501(c)3 charitable foundation that supports local, at-risk youth and creates opportunity for success. Formed in 1992, CVPAL has raised money to support youth who have faced hardships and overcome obstacles to become successful. CVPAL raises money via donations, raffles and fundraisers to support our youth. Examples include a holiday toy and food drive that supports local families, achievement awards to 6th graders and scholarships to deserving youth to attend Southwestern College.

On May 13, Chula Vista Police Chief David Bejarano and CVPAL board members were able to attend Francine's military commissioning ceremony aboard the USS Midway. To see how you can affect a life by donating to CVPAL, visit chulavistapal.org.

One recent CVPAL scholarship success is Francine Alba. Francine had made some poor choices early on in high school, and her life had gotten off track. Later she attended Palomar High School and was able to graduate a year early! Francine recently wrote to CVPAL and said, "After my high school graduation, I attended Southwestern Community College where I utilized the PAL scholarship and graduated in 2013 with an Associate of Arts degree in Communications and another Associate of Arts degree in Behavioral Science. After graduating from Southwestern Community college, Iâ&#x20AC;Śtransferred to the University of California San Diego in 2014, where I will...receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with an emphasis in public law. While attending UCSD, I simultaneously participated in San Diego State University's Aztec Battalion Army ROTC program, where I have completed rigorous training for the past two years to become a future Military Police Officer in the United States Army. It has been quite a journey since I was a recipient of the PAL scholarship and I would like to thank the CVPAL for believing in my potential and providing me with the tools to succeed in turning my life around for the better." OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9

On your Doorstep

Humananimal Outreach Golf Tournament TO BENEFIT CAST AND ANIMAL CARE FACILITY

The U.S. Navy first introduced Scott Vinson to Chula Vista back in 1977. He was immediately accepted by the community despite having an Alabama accent. For more than 30 years, his family has worked and volunteered in our community. Of all of his community volunteerism, none has provided him as much personal satisfaction as being a member of the Citizens Adversity Support Team (C.A.S.T.), which supports families during 911 emergencies. As owners of the Coldwell Banker Royal Realty office in Eastlake, Scott’s family asked the Chula Vista C.A.S.T. and the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility to partner

10 O U R HOMETOWN • JULY 2 0 16

in a charity golf tournament benefitting both non-profits. According to Salt Creek Golf Course management, last’s year’s tournament—their first—was one of the best golf events of the year, raising $9,800. This year, the second annual Humanimal Outreach Foundation Invitational Golf Tournament will be bigger and better. Numerous prizes will be awarded such as golf clubs, VIP concert ticket packages, and $10,000 cash for a hole in one. Plus there is a helicopter golf ball drop with a chance to win $1,000, and the Animal Care Facility will be onsite with adoptable pets. This is a fun tournament for everyone; on one of the holes the player has to shoot from a

toilet, and on another the player shoots using a pressurized air gun. The event will take place on Friday, July 29 at Salt Creek Golf Club, 525 Hunte Parkway in Chula Vista. If you’re interested in having fun or joining Coldwell Banker Royal Realty as a sponsor, visit www. thehumanimaloutreachfoundation.org or contact Femie Cupit at (858) 220-5487 or femiecupitdbrr@gmail.com.

The Humanimal Outreach Foundation supports the needs of the residents and animals living in Chula Vista and San Diego County. Don't miss out on the fun and competition while supporting two great Chula Vista causes.

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On your Doorstep

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OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11

SCHOOL

/ News

SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY LEADERS CELEBRATE GROUNDBREAKING FOR NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Cheered by community leaders, the Board of Education recently tossed the ceremonial first spades of dirt that signaled the start of construction on the 46th campus in the Chula Vista Elementary School District. Saburo Muraoka Elementary will be located at 1644 Santa Alexia Avenue, near Santa Victoria Avenue. It will cost about $48 million, including the purchase of 10.3 acres. An eye-catching, two-story structure will contain 36 classrooms and a multi-purpose room. It is scheduled to open in July 2017. The Board of Education recently named the campus after Muraoka, who was part of the fabric of early Chula Vista. Muraoka immigrated here in 1915, built a thriving agriculture business, then lost it all following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. After the war, he returned to Chula Vista, rebuilt his life, business and community. Muraoka died in 1983. “I am very proud of the decision of our Board to name this school after Saburo Muraoka,” Board President Dr. Eduardo Reyes said. “It is long overdue. It reflects the diversity of our region, and also honors local history.” Muraoka’s accomplishments were included in a biography that was part of a series on local figures titled They Made Chula Vista History. The five booklets were developed by the Altrusa Club of Chula Vista, in cooperation with the District and Chula 12 OU R HOMETOWN • JULY 2 0 16

School News

That spirit of peace and friendship will live on in the generations of students who will come through this school.

CVESD’S MILITARY FAMILY ADVOCATE HELPS WITH ‘HOME FRONT’

As a military wife and daughter, Tina Archer is familiar with the needs of military-connected students. Archer has lived in our community 16 years and worked as a substitute teacher since 2008. Now, in the role of Military Family Advocate, she is the point person on the “home front” – helping provide support to the Chula Vista Elementary School District’s military-connected students, families and schools. Students in the region resume school later this month, and Archer will help ensure their transition is a smooth one. “The best part of the job is meeting our military families, listening to their stories and helping them connect to resources in our community,” Archer said.

Vista Library—part of the District’s third grade curriculum on local history. The school is one of 11 campuses projected to be built in eastern Chula Vista over the next 15 years. “We are growing again. For all the growth, we still remain a community of family,” Dr. Reyes said. “It is my honor to acknowledge the Muraoka family, who gathered here with other community members who embrace and support Mr. Muraoka’s vision of peace. That spirit of peace and friendship will live on in the generations of students who will come through this school.” Members of the Muraoka family still call Chula Vista home. Several generations of the Muraoka family were present at the groundbreaking, as well as when the Board made the decision to name the newest campus Saburo Muraoka Elementary. It is believed to be the first school in San Diego County to be named after a Japanese American. Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D., noted that the school’s features will fit with its namesake. “The school’s design and learning environment will mirror the innovative spirit of Saburo Muraoka,” Escobedo said. “He was known to be an innovator in growing celery and cucumbers, developing unique grafting and farming techniques. Similarly, this school’s design will promote critical-thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication for our students.”

Currently, there are 14 schools in the District that have more than 10 percent of enrollment identified as military-connected students. Seven schools have at least 15 percent of their students identified as militaryconnected. The school with the highest percentage of military-connected students is Wolf Canyon Elementary, where nearly one-third of students are military connected. In April, District schools hosted a number of events in recognition of Month of the Military Child, often noting that “kids serve too.” Research indicates that military children attend an average of six to nine different schools and that students who transition frequently have unique needs. April’s activities were intended to help such students feel more welcomed, connected and academically supported. For example, Navy SEALs parachuted into the playground area of Corky McMillin Elementary as part of a special assembly. Olympic View Elementary celebrated Purple Up! for Military Kids Day by involving the school community in patriotic songs and inspirational messages at a special ceremony. Purple is the color that symbolizes all branches of the military, as it combines Army green, Coast Guard blue, Air Force blue, Marine red and Navy blue. “We applaud military families and their children for the daily sacrifices they make and the challenges they overcome,” said Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D. The position of Military Family Advocate is funded from a Welcoming Practices partnership grant headed by the University of Southern California. In addition, technology tools have been deployed to smooth the school transition process. A major component of the Welcoming Practices partnership is WelConnect, a free app made for educators, parents and community organizations. It helps families integrate more smoothly by connecting them to available resources and support programs from their mobile devices.

When school resumes on July 20, area schools will receive many new and returning military-connected families. For more information about available resources, email Tina.Archer@cvesd.org or call (619) 420-0468, ext. 3772. Archer is based out of the Military Family Welcome Center at the Fair Winds Family Resource Center, on the campus of Loma Verde Elementary, 1450 Loma Lane in Chula Vista. OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13

GROWING INDEPENDENCE THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL Do you remember getting ready for your first day of school? Feeling that roller coaster of emotions between excitement and nervousness? Excited about finally being able to use your new backpack with the latest superhero or princess on the front; yet, at the same time, nervous wondering who will be your new teacher? As you prepare your children for the first day of school, reassure them that school is a fun and exciting place to be. There are many new things to learn and friends to have fun with. There is a teacher excited to welcome them who is eager to share fun and engaging lessons. If your child is attending school for the first time, this is a milestone to celebrate. Every day in school will be a new adventure. There will be many things to discover, learn and experience. Set them up for success by making sure they are well rested, have a nutritious meal and are on time every day. Take time this summer to read with your children or have them read. Reading with your children and having conversations with them are the best things you can do to prepare them for their journey into the marvelous world of education. The Chula Vista Elementary School District’s first day of school is Wednesday, July 20. Please check the website or call the school your children will be attending to obtain the bell schedule and to learn more about its free and reduced meals program. More info is at cvesd.org.

MIDDLE SCHOOL TIPS If you have children entering 7th or 8th grade in the Sweetwater Union High School District, encourage them to do the following: 14 OU R HOMETOWN • J ULY 2 0 16

-Learn about the Compact for Success program and consider attending the 7th grade visit day at San Diego State in the fall. Compact for Success is the Sweetwater District’s guaranteed admissions program to San Diego State University. -Attend the New Student Orientation Days prior to the beginning of school. -Get to school on time every day and be prepared to learn: have all materials the first day, e.g., pencils, pens, paper, notebook back packs and iPads charged. -Have an attitude and behavior of a scholar. Pay attention in class, ask clarifying questions, do your homework, study for your exams and turn in your work on time. Take care of your books and iPad. -Be kind and courteous. The choice is always yours! Work hard, dream big, believe in yourself and never give up. Keep an open mind, make new friends and have fun!

HIGH SCHOOL TIPS If you have kids entering 9th-12th grades in the Sweetwater Union High School District, encourage them to do the following: -Establish a routine for study. -Get to know your teachers and school administrators. -Map out a plan to get from freshman to senior year and eventually to a two- or four-year college or a career path. -Explore careers. -Begin planning school or community-based activities that allow you to explore your interests and learn new things. -Consider participating in a Sweetwater District interscholastic athletic sport or explore opportunities in the Visual and Performing Arts Department. -Keep an open mind, make new friends and have fun!

WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOLS...

TO-DO LIST FOR SENIORS

A FEW TIPS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS By Guadalupe R. Corona,

Jim Lundgreen, President/CEO of Access College Foundation, recommends that students go to “the right college for the right reason at the right price.” If you have a graduating senior at home, here are some tips that Jim recommends for those who are college bound.  Respond to the “Welcome!” email from your college. You were probably sent an email with your student ID and a link where you need to register and establish your user name and password. Use the college’s online portal for all communications. Your financial aid, academic information, meal plan information, messages from all departments, etc. will be here.  Check your email. Email may not be your preferred mode of communication, but colleges use emails to relay important information like upcoming deadlines. Start checking your new college email address several times a week.  Fill out the roommate survey. Use whatever format your college may have. Many times Facebook contacts are used, or postings of survey results, etc.  Pack lightly. Rather than packing and transporting too much, you can wait and fill needed gaps left by roommates for dorm rooms. San Diegans going to New England would be well advised to wait and buy cold weather clothing and gear there.  Get your shots. See what requirements your college may have for immunization records and physical exams of any sort.  Health insurance waiver. Are you moving out of network? Call your broker or insurance company representative to verify whether an in-network doctor is available near your college. If no in-network physician is available, acquire the coverage. Either way, the college’s on-site health clinic and services are convenient and affordable for your student.  Final transcripts. Contact your high school’s guidance counseling office’s administrator and let him/ her know where you want yours sent.  Review your AP course exam results. Forward the scores to your college for credit.  Meet all matriculation requirements. Verify with your assigned Academic Advisor. Some colleges have summer programs to prepare you for fall freshman courses. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 16)

Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Southwestern College Fill out your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver, and any free aid applications available. There is a lot of free money for students, but many don’t take the time to fill out all the forms. You will never know how much aid you will get until they receive your application. Make sure you have a plan. Every college will provide you with an opportunity to meet with an academic advisor to plan your educational objective. The more you know about your goals, the quicker you will finish your degree. This includes taking courses during intersession and summer. Consider community college. Community colleges cost lest per unit, have more course options and are closer to home. It’s not only an added value for your money, but it helps you get ready to transfer to a four-year school. Additionally, they offer transfer field trips that allow you to visit many CSUs and UCs as well some private schools to provide you with a variety of options. Make sure you walk onto a campus that you are interested in. If it feels like you belong there, then apply. It’s like driving a car; you’ve got to feel it’s the right fit for you. Find out what supportive systems they have for first semester students: Attend orientation, which covers all the things you need to know to succeed. Then participate in a first year/first semester experience program. If it’s a cohort model, sign up. This model provides a cohort of students you can work with, learn with and support each other to succeed. Look for a job. Apply on campus, as on-campus jobs often pay more than off-campus jobs, and there may be added value when working on campus. There is more flexibility with your schedule, there are mentors who help you succeed by referring you to resources on campus, the work is usually in a professional office and the skills you learn are transferrable to professional job opportunities. Ask for help. Most institutions now offer free tutoring. Don’t wait until you are failing a class to ask for help. Join a program that offers a mentor. It’s always great to have a big brother or sister to show you the ropes of getting around a new setting. Get involved. Join a club, event or activity. It’s a great way to meet people, make friendships and develop new skills. Volunteer. A great way to know more about yourself and your community is the gift of service. If you can study abroad, do it. Life is about trying new challenges, and you will never know where you’ll end up. You will be a global citizen by the time you end your college experience. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 15

(TO-DO LIST FOR SENIORS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15)

 Work with your Academic Advisor. Register for the right classes for you. Ask for the complete four-year plan for your declared degree.  Use www.RateMyProfessors.com. As you already know from your high school experience, the teacher/professor can make or break a class. You could have the same book, same materials and same credit but varying degrees of difficulty. Obviously the best professors and the best class times fill up first. Register early!  Use an online bookstore. Buy or rent your textbooks after the first class. Professors often change or drop books or use one primarily and have reference copies of the others available in the campus library. This will save you thousands of dollars over the course of your college career.

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 Maintenance requirements for scholarships or financial aid. Read the fine-print. Online award acceptance is part of the process. Usually your college will require you to accept or deny all items on your Award Offer. Read all terms carefully, including the renewal terms for any merit aid. Most require you take a minimum course credit count and maintain a certain grade point average.  Outside scholarships. Email your college to verify that if you find any outside scholarships, they will only reduce the loan offerings, and not the gift aid.  Were you awarded Federal Work Study? If so, make sure you access the online work opportunities as soon as possible. If not, you should still

contact your college representative and ask how to apply.  Student and parent loans. Each applicant will need to complete both a Master Promissory Note and the Annual Promissory Note. Your college will have an online process for you to follow, including entrance counseling and the application process. When you finish college, there will be an exit counseling and loan payment, consolidation, deferment, forbearance or forgiveness, if appropriate.  Plan your payments. Tuition payments are generally due in July or August, so take time now to research your payment options and figure out how to make the payments on time. Instead of having to pay the bill in one lump sum, you might be able to sign up for a monthly payment plan.

WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOLS...

 Financial aid privacy waiver. Your information is private and confidential by law. Check with your college to see if it has a waiver you can sign and allow your parents to discuss the financial reparations, e.g., payment plans or semester payments.  Get a credit card, not a debit card. That's because debit and credit cards are treated differently by consumer protection laws. Under federal law, your personal liability for fraudulent charges on a credit card can't exceed $50. But if a fraudster uses your debit card, you could be liable for $500 or more, depending on how quickly you report it. The college campus will be loaded with “opportunities” to get debit/credit cards. Don’t apply for those; just use the one you bring from home.  Celebrate and appreciate! Let everyone know how your college search ended up, and thank everyone who helped.

OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17

AN OPEN LETTER TO EMPTY NESTERS:

LETTING GO IS PART OF GROWING UP BY ALMA GALLARDO

Students aren’t the only ones about to experience a “first day” at the beginning of the school year. Parents who have spent 18 years raising a child also transition to a new lifestyle when they say goodbye to their young adult. Before our kids left home, we had a busy and intense household. Our days would begin early at 5:00 a.m. with pig tails and pony tails, making a power breakfast, prayer and eating as a family by 6:30. We walked our kids to our local elementary school, Discovery Charter Elementary. We came home to homework time, dinner as a family, bedtime stories and horseplay with daddy. We stayed involved in school activities when our kids were at Eastlake Middle and Olympian High School. Our daughters also volunteered at Scripps Chula Vista Hospital and at Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Watching them grow up as responsible, strong and well-rounded children has been our privilege. As a couple, our priority was spending our time with our daughters and sneaking in some date nights at least once a month. We kept our relationship on track by serving our community by facilitating Evenings for the Engaged courses and helping with weekend retreats for hurting couples. Helping other couples helped us strengthen and build our relationship.

planned weekend getaways and double dates with friends. At the beginning, we tried to avoid being in our empty house because passing our daughters’ bedrooms would put a knot in our throats. Getting away really helped us pass the time and rekindle our love for one another as boyfriend and girlfriend—not just mom and dad. As the time that our girls would go to college approached, I began to feel afraid that I was not going to be needed anymore. I had dedicated all my time to our girls and family. But I also felt overjoyed to have our family so close. We are best friends, and it gave me confidence that I wasn’t just losing my little girls, but that I was gaining mature, responsible, young daughters and friends. Before they left, I went to a few sessions of counseling to help me find myself again and transition from a full-time role as a mom and begin my life with my life-long partner, my husband. I also did a lot of praying, and we took small dates with each of our girls individually to spend quality time.

We brought up our children with the vision of going to and succeeding in college. Our daughters watched the beauty of seeing my husband and me working hard to provide them with all they need. They were aware that having a college degree is very important and necessary to survive in this day in age. When they were in high school, we took them on a road trip to tour universities in Northern California. They opted for a Jesuit school that offered small class sizes and merit scholarships.

I recommend that parents begin a college fund early in their children’s lives. We did not do that so we rely on our daughters’ merit scholarships and loans. Also, make time for date nights. Your children need to see you enjoying each other’s company and loving each other. Remember, you are their example on what marriage is all about. Tour colleges during your child’s sophomore year in high school. Apply for as many scholarships as possible. Don’t be afraid to apply to college out of state; sometime those colleges offer a better scholarship. Finally, try to spend as much time as possible with your children and develop a friendship. It may be tough to let go, but it’s part of growing up. It will all be worth it! The best gift you can give your children is to love each other as parents and provide an education.

To fill the time and space after they left home, my husband and I planned several activities together. We went to dinner, went out salsa dancing, picnicked at the beach,

To everyone in all stages of life, may you gain the independence that will allow you to grow into the person you are meant to be.

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WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOLS...

OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19

ON TOPIC MARGARET ARVESON: INDEPENDENT AT 101 BY ASHLYN O'HARA

For some, independence is more than just an attributed trait; it’s a way of life. Such is the case for Margaret Arveson. Born on March 31, 1915, Margaret lives independently, prepares her own meals, does her own laundry and drives herself to the store. An avid golfer and gardener, Margaret’s many years have been filled with adventures she easily immortalizes in stories.

At 101 years old, Margaret notes that taking care of people fulfilled her life the most. Having lost her mother at the age of 11, Margaret, as the oldest child, was responsible for her younger siblings. She took on the role of a “second mother” to ensure her family was taken care of. However, it was the United States’ entry into WWII that truly defined Margaret’s role as a caregiver. Feeling the imminence of the war, she went into nurse’s training in 1943 and received her R.N. license.

“I had to do something for the war effort,” she remarked. Though she initially intended to travel overseas with the American soldiers, an offer from a doctor with his own private practice kept her in the states. Margaret was in charge of examining new military recruits to see if they were eligible to serve. Holding degrees that allowed her to work in doctor’s offices, emergency rooms and delivery rooms, Margaret’s range of skills granted her experiences she remembers over 50 years later. After the war was over, Margaret and her late husband Jack moved to Oakland, California, where she gave birth to her only child, Paul, a physicist who looks after her today. Margaret and Jack first met at a dance in San Francisco, partnering on fast dances such as the Charleston and the foxtrot. By the time Margaret graduated from nurse’s training (which Jack attended, carrying a bouquet of flowers), the two were a serious couple. In WWII, Jack captained many of FDR’s “Victory Ships,” which were responsible for delivering goods such as food, supplies and even a locomotive engine to allied nations. Heralded as an expert captain, Jack frequently relied on courses he’d taken in celestial navigation to direct ships through Pacific typhoons when charts and maps weren’t accessible. Jack surprised Margaret with her first car, a red Pinto that she found by following a string through their house to the garage. When remembering Jack’s decision to move from Virginia to the West Coast, Margaret said, “He was so kind…he [said], ‘Honey, this is isn’t our part of the world. We’re Californians. We gotta go home!’” So the two returned to Oakland, California, where they’d first met. In addition to her skills in the medical field, her patriotic zeal and her love for her family, Margaret boasts unparalleled independence.

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EXPERIENCE CONCORDIA’S Here ... you’re home!

SUMMER LAUNCH

NEW WORSHIP SPACE CONCORDIA CHURCH Church Open Houses July 24th AND Aug 7th

Classic Worship - 8:30am Fam Jam Worship - 10:30am

Community Fun Day & Tour

July 9th from 3pm-5pm JUMPERS, GAMES & HOTDOGS

WWW.CONCORDIACHURCH.COM • 1695 DISCOVERY FALLS DR, CHULA VISTA, CA. 91915 OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21

OUT & ABOUT BUDDY – THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY @ Onstage Playhouse, 291 3rd Avenue in Chula Vista. Curtain times are Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. This musical charts Holly’s meteoric climb, legendary adventures and tragic fall, and kicks off the 2016-17 season. All tickets $25. Call (619) 422-RSVP (7787) or visit www. onstageplayhouse.com.

SUMMER SUNDAYS AT VILLAGE WALK @ 5 - 7 p.m. at Village Walk, on Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive. Musical performance by Lady J & Soulful Knights and car club exhibit by South Bay Cruisers. Free canvas lunch bag craft activity, face painting and balloon sculptures for the kids.

04 INDEPENDENCE DAY

WALK+BIKE CHULA VISTA MEET-UP RIDE @ 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. @ Marina View Parkway in Chula Vista. Free for all ages. A limited number of t-shirts will be given away and all attendees will get a free promo item. For more info or to RSVP, email jaramirez@circulatesd.org or michelle@sdbikecoalition.org.

SUMMER FAMILY MOVIE @ 2:30 p.m. @ Bonita-Sunnyside Library, 4375 Bonita Road in Chula Vista. Beat the heat on Fridays this summer and bring the family for a fun, family movie. For the week’s selection, call (619) 475-4642.

SUMMER SUNDAYS AT VILLAGE WALK @ 5 - 7 p.m. at Village Walk, on Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive. Musical performance by Steal Dawn and car club exhibit by Model A Restorer’s Club of San Diego & San Diego Antique Motorcycle Club. Free wood box craft activity, face painting and balloon sculptures for the kids. 22 O U R HOMETOWN • JULY 2 0 16

JULY

IN THE PARK SUNDAYS 10 MUSIC 17 SUMMER @ 3 - 6 p.m. @ Memorial AT VILLAGE WALK Bowl, 373 Park Way in Chula Vista. Musical performance by Bulevar Descarga, a magician and family fun. For more info, call (619) 409- 5966 or visit chulavistaca.gov/ MusicinThePark.

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 Funeraria Del Angel Humphrey, 753 Broadway in Chula Vista. For more info or to RSVP, call (619) 420-6603 or email info@ chulavistachamber.org.

SCREEN PRINTING WORKSHOP FOR TEENS @ 1 - 4 p.m. @ Bonita-Sunnyside Library, 4375 Bonita Road in Chula Vista. Teens ages 12-17 are invited to this 3-hour workshop to learn how to make a screen printed shirt. Space is limited. Visit the front desk or call (619) 475-4642.

SUMMER MOVIE IN THE PARK @ dusk @ Rohr Park, Gate A in Bonita. Featured movie is The Sandlot. Bring friends and family, blankets, chairs and snacks for this free event. For more info, visit www. chulavistaca.gov/rec.

@ 5 - 7 p.m. at Village Walk, on Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive. Musical performance by Joe Rathburn’s ISLAND and car club exhibit by Pick Ups Limited. Free pencil box craft activity, merchant food samples and giveaways.

24 CONCORDIA CHURCH OPEN

HOUSE @ 8:30 a.m (classic worship) and 10:30 a.m. (Fam Jam) @ Concordia Church & School, 1695 Discovery Falls Drive in Chula Vista. Come and see the new worship space! For more info, visit concordiachurch.com.

ART IN THE 24 STUDIO PARK @ 10 a.m. –

3:30 p.m. @ Bayside Park between the Marina and RV Park, 550 Marina Parkway in Chula Vista. Outdoor Art Show the fourth Sunday of each month. A wonderful opportunity for artists to showcase their work and for the community to enjoy all types of amazing art and all that the City's waterfront has to offer. For more information contact info@sbfsa.org or cvarts@ chulavistaca.gov.

DAY 26 DOG-FRIENDLY @ 4 – 8 p.m. @ Otay

Ranch Town Center Farmer’s Market, at Eastlake Parkway and Olympic Parkway. Have a dog-gone good time with your favorite, fourlegged friend. Participate in a doggie summer costume contest, complimentary canine fitness evaluation and story times. Call (619) 656-9100 for more info.

HUMANIMAL OUTREACH FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT @ noon @ Salt Creek Golf Club, 525 Hunte Parkway in Chula Vista. Join in the annual “FUNd” raiser to provide funds to the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility and CAST. For more info or to register, contact Femie Cupit at (858) 220-5487 or email femiecupitbrr@ gmail.com.

JUDAICA GIFT SHOP OPEN HOUSE @ 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. @ Temple Beth Shalom of Chula Vista, 208 Madrona Street. Enjoy live music and a courtyard sale. For more info, visit bethshalomtemple.com.

AUG 6 4TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH @ 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. @ The Vine Christian Fellowship. Call (619) 9615163 or (619) 997-8745 for more info.

EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Eastlake Tavern & Bowl, Eastlake; 11:30 a.m.1 p.m.; eastlakebusiness.org. FARMER’S MARKET Thursdays @ Third Avenue Village Association (Third Ave. & Center St.); 3-7 p.m.

KIDS READY TO READ Interactive storytime program Thursdays @ Otay Ranch Branch Library; 11:15 a.m.; chulavistalibrary.com.

PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 23

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

Daphne's California Greek

E AT WELL. LIVE WELL!

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With over 30 restaurants in California, Daphne's California Greek offers Mediterranean-inspired, California fare made with high quality ingredients and a focus on more nourishing and healthful options. Daphne's menu takes its inspiration from health-conscious consumers who desire quality, and flavorful foods that can also fuel their active and full lifestyles. The menu includes specialty salads, flatbread pizzas, pita sandwiches and grilled seafood complemented with flavorful sides such as a spicy “fire feta” dip,

roasted veggies and savory tabouli. Most menu items fall under 700 calories and can be customized to accommodate lowfat, low-carb, high protein diets as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets. Daphne's California Greek provides a healthy alternative for catering social parties and business meetings.

Follow Daphne's on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to keep up on the latest promotions, food special, sweepstakes and more. Eat Well, Live Well! www.daphnes.biz

GET THE PARTY STARTED! Rock Pop Latin R&B Swing Retro Country Contemporary Jazz

DJ Sound Express Entertainer • Emcee • Saxophonist

For bookings contact: Aaron Valencia 619-247-8422 www.djsoundexpress.com www.breezn.com • saxman3@cox.net

Family services

Personalized, one-on-one speech therapy services in the comfort of your own home. research-based bilingual therapy for children and adults. Private pay only. letitia a. stanton-aicher ms, ccc-slP

(855) 619-6191 www.LSABT.com

OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 25

LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT

Chula Vista Kiwanis Club

• Donation of infant car seats to parents of newborns as they The mission of the Chula Vista Kiwanis Club is serving leave Sharp and Scripps hospitals. the children of the world. As a club, we belong to Kiwanis • During Christmas, donations of clothing, grocery gift cards International, which is a global organization with 660,000 and bicycles to over 30 of our local elementary, members, established in 1915. Kiwanis middle and high school students. International annually raises more than $100 • We serve lunch to over 700 participants and million, and dedicates more than 18.5 million competitors every year at the Special Olympics volunteer hours to strengthen communities Our club at PLNU. and serve children. Our Kiwanis clubs exist for • Donation of funds and supplies to Rady is made two purposes: 1) to provide the opportunity for Children’s Hospital through the Miracle Mile those who are like-minded to enjoy fellowship up of local of Quarters. on a regular basis and form lasting friendships, business • Donations of food, clothes and funds to South and 2) to provide people with the opportunity Bay Community Services, the YMCA, the Boys to work in concert with others for the good of owners and and Girls Club and Stand up for Kids. the community and its people. citizens • Donation of $4,500 in scholarships to local high school seniors. Our Chula Vista Kiwanis Club meets every who have a • Donations of over 40 backpacks and gift cards second and fourth Tuesday at noon in passion to to our local elementary schools. downtown Chula Vista. The local meeting • Donation of $500 to the CVPD Foundation for location is the Italianissimo restaurant on 3rd serve and our School Resource Officer Program. Avenue. Our club is made up of local business support our • Donations of thousands of dollars to our local owners and citizens who have a passion to serve high school athletics programs. and support our community. We sponsor and community. support numerous community organizations The list gives you the spectrum of the work we do for and children throughout Chula Vista and our community. We are always looking for new members Tijuana. Our club works tirelessly throughout and community support for our club. Our biggest annual the year to raise thousands of dollars each year fundraiser will be on September 10 at the Salt Creek Golf Course from to help support our service projects. We have a long list of 6 to 10 p.m. Please call Viky Mitrovich, Club President, at (619) 887-1392 projects that we have sponsored throughout the years and for more information. continue to sponsor:

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