C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
FREE
JULY 2017
STREETS of HONOR
BOARDS & COMMISSIONS: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AND THE YOUTH ACTION COUNCIL
CONTENTS/ EDITOR'S LETTER
J U LY 2 0 17
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep About a year before I was married, my dad and I were driving in rural, west Michigan. A large sign designating the country road up ahead came into view. It said Weber Rd. I had gotten engaged to a Weber about two months previously, so I asked my Dad to pull the car over and take a photo of me standing in front of the sign. I was excited to find such a sign and happy to share it with my in-laws-to-be. Who is the Weber remembered on that sign? My in-laws didn’t even know that Weber Rd. existed, let alone after whom it was named. Recently several new streets in Otay Ranch were dedicated to remember Chula Vista residents who fought and died in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This month we honor them and their families through the words of Rear Admiral James McNeal. We have an opportunity to learn why street signs with a particular name on them exist. We also have an opportunity when driving or walking past them to say to the person we’re with—Did you know this street is named after a local guy? He joined the military to keep our freedoms. Of course, not everyone who passes away is remembered with a street naming. I remember my precious grammie every night through a picture next to my bed. My husband remembers his dad through a tree planted on family property in Michigan. We remember others by lighting a candle, wearing a locket, saying a prayer, observing birthdays or holidays, and many other practices. As you enjoy the summer months, remember to tell your kids you’re proud of them. Hug your friends. Love your partner. Life is precious and meant to be lived to the fullest.
—AMBER WEBER, editor
14 SCHOOL NEWS Sweetwater Union High School District Graduates Thousands
16 FEATURE Streets of Honor
22 ON TOPIC A Tireless Effort
25 CALENDAR Out & About
26 BOARDS & COMMISSIONS Parks and Recreation Commission and the Youth Action Council
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BRAVO
. . . great things happening in our community
PUBLISHED BY
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
› To the new, INCOMING
MELISSA MONROY, Design
2017-2018 CHULA VISTA ROTARY PRESIDENTS: Carmen
Sandoval, Rotary Club of Chula Vista; Mauricio Torres, Rotary Club of Chula Vista Sunset; and Jeffrey Thiel, Rotary Club of Chula Vista Sunrise.
ASHLYN O'HARA, Intern
› To the “THIS IS CHULA”
PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS.
Advertising inquiries: Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com.
After more than 100 photos were submitted, a beautiful shot of kayaks on Otay Lake at sunrise was awarded the Grand Prize in the photo contest. Ed Banaña will see his winning photo displayed on a billboard on Adams Avenue (near 35th Street) in the Normal Heights neighborhood.
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 OHTM Inc has 4 OorUadvertisers. R H OMETOWN • J the ULY right to refuse advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. at (619) 840−7722.
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The billboards are part of an advertising and awareness campaign called “THIS is Chula,” aimed at increasing awareness and correcting
misperceptions about the City of Chula Vista. Since the campaign was launched in February, billboards have rotated throughout the county featuring the message “THIS is Chula.” Photos of Aquatica waterpark, imagery for craft breweries on Third Avenue, the Chula Vista waterfront, and concertgoers at Mattress Firm Amphitheatre have all been featured. The billboards, digital ads and social media posts invite the public to visit the new City website, www. ExploreChulaVista.com. Since the campaign was launched, it has driven more than 12 million impressions on social media, advertising and the website. Photos posted from May 5 – 16 were considered for the contest. A panel reviewed the photos and selected the winners:
Grand Prize: Ed Banaña – Kayaks on the Otay Lakes shore at sunrise Second Place: John T. Taylor – Drone over Aquatica Eddie Flores – Chula Vista Marina at sunset Third Place: Ernesto Rivera – J Street Marina at sunset Fourth Place: Pedro Anaya – Danza Azteca Michelle Levy – Otay Lake
› To the OLYMPIC VIEW
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, FAMILIES, FACULTY, AND STAFF for successfully
presenting a Multicultural Parade of Nations on Friday, May 26. Students from each classroom researched a country representing the heritage of Olympic View
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.
Photographs include "This is Chula Vista" photo contest winners and incoming 2017-2018 Chula Vista Rotary Presidents.
students, created posters with important facts about the selected country, and donned national costumes or colors of that country's flag. Students with a different heritage from the country their classroom represented wore their national costume. Mrs. McKearney, principal, and Mrs. Martin, Multicultural Family Association board member, opened the ceremony. They emphasized unity and respect among cultures, as well as pride in each student's culture. Safety Patrol Color Guard paraded the colors and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance, and kindergarteners led in singing “The Star Spangled Banner.” This was followed by a joyous and celebratory parade of nations representing 30 countries around the school’s outside assembly area. As each nation paraded, a student, Mrs. McKearney, or Mrs. Watson, associate principal, read basic facts about the country. Mrs. Manabat, visual and performing arts teacher, led 120 fourth graders in a traditional African dance with instruments. 120 fifth graders performed a poi ball dance from New Zealand, also instructed by Mrs. Manabat. At the end of the parade, kindergarteners through third graders led everyone in singing “It's A Small World,” joined by students and parents. It brought tears to many. Parents, staff, and students felt proud to be acknowledged for their heritage.
› To the nonprofit organizations awarded a total of $50,232 to strengthen youth education and development. The CHULA VISTA CHARITABLE FOUNDATION (CVCF), an affiliate of The San Diego Foundation, awarded the record amount in funding to three nonprofits at its 7th Annual Grants Celebration on May 31 at the Barnhart Cancer Center. This year, CVCF focused on projects that support the physical and mental wellbeing and educational development of
youth within Chula Vista. The programs funded include the Opus afterschool music program with the San Diego Youth Symphony ($25,000), Science Without Boundaries wildlife camps with Living Coast Discovery Center ($13,232), and the parent/infant program with The Arc of San Diego ($12,000). “Thanks to the collective support of our local leaders, friends and neighbors, Chula Vista Community Foundation has granted over $240,000 in the past seven years, allowing us to play an active role in improving the quality of life within our community,” explained Debbie Espe, CVCF Board Chair. “This year, we are excited to support programs that are providing Chula Vista youth with more opportunities to grow and learn.” CVCF is dedicated to improving the quality of life and meeting emerging needs in Chula Vista by increasing responsible and effective philanthropy, building a community endowment for the benefit of the region, providing funds annually to community organizations and causes, and giving the community a vehicle for legacy planning and gifts that will benefit Chula Vista now and forever.
› To the SWEETWATER AUTHORITY (AUTHORITY) for receiving the District
Transparency Certificate of Excellence from the Special District Leadership Foundation in recognition of its outstanding efforts to promote transparency and good governance. The Authority first received the award in 2014 and recently completed the process to re-certify. To receive the award, a special district must demonstrate the completion of eight essential governance requirements, including conducting open and public meetings and filing financial transactions and compensation reports to the State Controller in a timely manner. Sweetwater Authority also fulfilled 15 website requirements, including providing readily available information to the
public, such as board agendas, past minutes, current district budget, and the most recent financial audit. Finally, the district also demonstrated outreach to its constituents that engages the public in its governance through regular newsletters and the annual public hearing for the budget. Sweetwater Authority, a joint powers public agency, provides public water service to approximately 189,000 people residing in National City and the South Bay Irrigation District (which includes portions of Chula Vista and most of Bonita).
› To the PARTICIPANTS OF THE EASTLAKE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION’S 19TH ANNUAL CYCLE EASTLAKE & RUN. The
event was held at EastLake Middle School on May 13. About 600 people and over 35 vendors attended, including dancing lessons from EastLake Church's Zumba class instructors! Throughout EastLake there were five different races: 25-mile Memorial Marty Garcia Ride, 18-mile mountain bike poker ride, a half marathon, 10K, and a 5K neighborhood family roll and stroll. With the support of tour/festival sponsors, marketing vendors, and the community at large, the EEF raised over $20,000 to provide technology assistance in classrooms and designated technology programs. Because of the foundation's yearly efforts this allows extra support and an opportunity for students to apply for technology scholarships and grants. This year EEF awarded four lucky graduating 6th grade students a new ipad, one innovative laptop at the high school level, and four $1,000 scholarships to graduating EastLake High School (EHS) seniors to continue their education at the college level. The students are Ren Nakata (Arroyo Vista Charter), Lillian Yang (Olympic View), Victoria Ibarra (EastLake Elementary), Denise Machado (EastLake Middle School), Jazmine Barnes (EHS), David Acali Parra (EHS), Sherriah Harrington (EHS), Alysa Ojeda (EHS), and Kiana Valdivieso (EHS). To learn more about the EEF, visit www. eefkids.org. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Orange Crate Derby Opens to Children Ages 7-14 By Rochelle Carroll
Helmet on, hands firmly on the wheel, you’re waiting for the green light to go, and then you speed downhill up to 15 miles per hour! The traditional Orange Crate Derby has been going strong for 37 years, and it teaches kids the thrill of competition, along with the spirit of sportsmanship. Start planning now…it’s almost time for the next round of thrilling races to begin! Sponsored by the Chula Vista Sunrise Rotary Club, the Orange Crate Derby will take place on August 19 and 20 in Chula Vista on a downhill street in Rancho Del Rey. Saturday is inspection and practice day, with the actual race taking place on Sunday. This exciting family event is for kids from 7 to 14 years old and promises to be a day of fun for both drivers and spectators! This event should not be confused with the Soapbox Derby. Unlike expensive fiberglass cars, the orange crate cars are made out of wood and can be built by families with just a little bit of know-how about woodworking. Interested families can view step-by-step car directions and photographs at orangecratederby.com. The derby also hosts build-a-car clinics for families to view cars and get ideas about how to build one. Clinics are from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 22 and August 5 at the YMCA Teen Center, 820 Paseo Ranchero in Chula Vista. Gently used, previously raced cars will be for sale for those who may not have the tools or skills to build their own car. For more information, please contact Bob Lechner at lechner@cox.net. Are you thinking this is just a “boys” event? You should know a few of last year’s fastest racers were girls! The event has four age groups: 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, and 13-14. Some cars are even big enough for parents to race each other while the kids do the cheering. Registration is open at orangecratederby.com. Cost is $20 until July 31; then it goes up to $25. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy this family event, so bring your blankets, coolers and umbrellas. 6 OU R H OMETOWN • J ULY 20 17
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Accepting Human Relations Commission Applicants
The City of Chula Vista is now accepting applications for the Human Relations Commission which will make recommendations and offer advice to the Mayor, City Council and the City Manager on how it may best proceed to promote ways in which the community welcomes and embraces its diversity and safeguards equal opportunities for everyone. The commission will also consider how the City can address issues related to the interrelationships between various groups based on protected characteristics such as race, religion, sexual orientation, immigration status, etc. There are 11 seats available. Applications are open to residents who reside in and are registered voters in Chula Vista and will be accepted until a sufficient number of applications are received. For more information or to apply to the Human Relations Commission, visit www.chulavistaca.gov/cityclerk.
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Farewell to OHTM Intern Ashlyn O’Hara
One of the great pleasures in publishing is having the opportunity to support future journalists. For the past two years we have had the honor to host and support a talented high school student as our intern. Ashlyn O’ Hara proved to be a dedicated, hardworking, honest and reliable intern. Our Hometown Magazine staff is more like a family, and Ashlyn fit right in. She was our bridge to a younger generation; yet, her knowledge and understanding of local, regional, and world events made her wise beyond her years. As Ashlyn prepares to attend the Eugene Lang College for Liberal Arts at The New School in New York, she will bring real-life skills obtained by her experience at Our Hometown Magazine, most notably orchestrating and crafting the feature story for the April 2017 issue. “We will greatly miss Ashlyn and know without a doubt that she will succeed in her field of study,” stated Michael Monaco, Our Hometown Magazine Publisher.
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On your Doorstep
Resident Leadership Academy to Create Community Health Leaders The City’s first intergenerational resident leadership academy begins this summer
In August, Chula Vista High School will host the first intergenerational Resident Leadership Academy (RLA) in the City. The RLA will develop participants’ knowledge and skills to become health leaders in their community and learn to work with government and school districts to make sustainable quality of life changes. From August through October, 20 Chula Vista residents from high school students to seniors will meet weekly to learn these leadership skills and develop a community-based project. The Chula Vista Community Collaborative will lead the RLA with funding from the AARP Age-Friendly Communities Network, which Chula Vista joined in July 2016. “The City is excited that this partnership is enabling us to further our age-friendly work locally by bringing residents of all ages together and furthering the County’s LiveWell efforts to educate our community, develop health advocates and create thriving neighborhoods throughout the region,” commented Stacey Kurz, Healthy Chula Vista Initiative Coordinator.
Applications are being accepted through August 9. Participants must be residents of the City and commit to meet every Wednesday from 3:004:30 p.m. for 10 weeks (8/23-10/25).
According to Maria Elena Galleher, a high school teacher, “Students at Chula Vista High School are thrilled to have an opportunity…to work on a community improvement project with fellow residents and leaders in our city. This program is going to teach them to be civically engaged, improve their community and make a difference. There is real power in that.”
To learn more about the RLA, contact (619) 427-2348 or email Claudia.lopezdenava@cvesd.org. 8 OU R H OMETOWN • J ULY 20 17
On your Doorstep
Cristian’s Big Heart 5K to Support Free Heart Screenings for Teens
Each year, more than 4,000 San Diego teenagers receive free heart screenings. This is, in part, due to a founding family who lost their son in high school and an Eastlake family who lost their son one day shy of his 19th birthday. Cristian Acosta-Flores grew up in Eastlake, played football with the Eastlake Panthers, attended Eastlake middle and high schools, and graduated in 2013 from Olympian High School. After graduation, Cristian attended San Jose State University Each year, and planned to become a teacher. While visiting more than his Eastlake home for his birthday, Cristian's 4,000 life was tragically cut short. On September 1, San Diego 2014, Cristian passed away from complications teenagers due to an undiagnosed, enlarged heart. receive
free heart
Since his passing, Cristian’s family has helped other local screenings. families try to avoid the same fate. Since 2015 they have partnered with the Eric Paredes Save a Life Foundation to provide money for heart screenings. For three consecutive years the Eric Paredes Save a Life Foundation has conducted thousands of free heart screenings in San Diego. Last year alone, 47 heart abnormalities were diagnosed, including a serious risk here in Eastlake. August 27 marks the 3rd Annual "Cristian’s Big Heart 5K." Join others at Rohr Park for a familyfriendly 5k, food, and activities. All the proceeds from this annual event support the Eric Paredes Save a Life Foundation.
Race registration begins July 1. Corporate donors and race participants can visit www.cristiansbigheart.org.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Citizen’s Police Academy Now Accepting Recruits Would you like an inside view of policing? Do you want to know about basic criminal investigations or internet crime and safety? If so, sign up for the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) Citizen’s Police Academy and learn this and much more! CVPD is accepting applications for the fall 2017 Citizen’s Police Academy which runs each Wednesday from August Applications 30 through November 6 (the only Monday are class). Applicants must be at least 18 years old to available participate in the 10-week online and program and will be subject to a background class is check. Preference is given to Chula Vista residents filled on a and those who work in first-come, Chula Vista.
first-served
For more than a decade, the CVPD has provided basis. the public with an opportunity to experience the free academy, where they will graduate with a better understanding of law enforcement and the Chula Vista Police Department's role in the community. During the academy, recruits will learn about defensive tactics, pursuit driving, firearms, gangs and criminal investigation. Members of the CVPD elite units, including the Gang Suppression Unit, Narcotics Enforcement team, K-9s and others will provide demonstrations and information in their area of expertise. Classes will be held at the Chula Vista Police Department, 315 Fourth Avenue, from 6 to 9 p.m.; however, on occasion, a class may run four hours. Applications are available at www.chulavistapd.org, and class is filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information, please contact Alyssa Isaaks via email at aisaaks@chulavistapd.org, or call (619) 407-3586. 10 O U R HOMETOWN • JULY 2 0 17
Being Responsible Pet Parents
With warm weather upon us and more daylight to enjoy, now is a good time to remind pet owners to be responsible pet parents. Please remember the following when walking your dog around the neighborhood or in a City of Chula Vista park:
• All dogs must be on a leash when off the owner’s property. • Pet owners must clean up after their pet and dispose of waste properly. • All dogs over the age of four months are required to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Online licensing information can be found at www.cvacf.org. Please help reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats by spaying/ neutering your pet(s). The Chula Vista Animal Care Facility (ACF) offers Spay/Neuter Clinics for low-income Chula Vista, National City, Imperial Beach, Lemon Grove and qualifying City of San Diego residents. If you find a lost dog or want to report a dead animal, please call the ACF Dispatch at (619) 476-2476. For more information about the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility, go to www.cvacf.org. Chula Vista has five dog parks for residents to enjoy. They are Montevalle, a 29-acre park located at 840 Duncan Ranch Road, Mount San Miguel Park at 2335 Paseo Veracruz consisting of 19.5 acres, Orange Park with 3.9 acres at 1475 Fourth Avenue, Eucalyptus Park at Fourth and C Streets with 20.9 acres, and Veterans Park with 12 acres at 785 East Palomar Street. In addition to the five dog parks, the City has 55 parks with a variety of amenities. If you want to secure a gazebo, reservations are taken online only. For details and hours of all City parks, go to www.goo.gl/EHnE0N. So that we can all enjoy the beautiful facilities in Chula Vista, please do your part to help keep them clean and safe by remembering to pick up after your pet and make sure he/she is on a leash. Happy summer!
On your Doorstep
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista City Council Approves $373 Million Budget Fiscal Year 2017-18 balanced budget includes $60.6 million in Measure P funding
The Chula Vista City Council unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2017-18 budget at the June 20 City Council meeting. The combined budget for all City funds totals $373 million and includes a General Fund operating budget of $166.6 million and a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget of $73.9 million. The budget includes the addition of five Peace Officers to the Police Department; design and construction of two fire stations; and funding for the Climate Action Plan update, Smart City Strategic Action Plan, Measure P is and an update of the Multi-modal Bikeway a temporary, & Pedestrian Master ten-year, halfPlan. Pending approval of a SAFER (Staffing cent sales tax for Adequate Fire & approved by Emergency Response) grant, the City is 68 percent of anticipating 12 new firefighter positions. Chula Vista
voters in
Included in the CIP budget is $60.6 million in Measure P funding high priority for residential street repairs; sport court infrastructure repairs; renovation of needs. Loma Verde Recreation Center, Woman’s Club, Civic Center and South Libraries, Norman Park Senior Center; park enhancements; traffic signal system improvements; and other much needed infrastructure improvement projects. Measure P is a temporary, ten-year, half-cent sales tax approved by 68 percent of Chula Vista voters in 2016 to fund high priority infrastructure needs. Collection of the tax began April 1, 2017.
2016 to fund
To view the Chula Vista FY 2017-18 budget, visit www. chulavistaca.gov/budget.
12 OU R HOMETOWN • JULY 2 0 17
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Public Library Wins NASA @ My Library Grant
The Chula Vista Public Library has been awarded a NASA@ My Library grant to enhance STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) learning opportunities for youth. As one of 75 U.S. public libraries selected by the American Library Association (ALA), the library will receive resources, training, and financial underwriting for STEM events for children. Selected through a competitive process from a pool of more than 500 applicants, the library will participate in the 18-month project (Phase 1), with the opportunity to extend for an additional two-year period. Chula Vista Library is one of three California libraries to receive the award, including Anaheim Public Library and Solano County Library. The project targets geographic areas and populations that are underserved in STEM education. In addition to its weekly STEM programs for youth, the Chula Vista Library will offer several major NASA-themed programs in 2018 in the Innovation Station, its cutting-edge technology space that opened in 2016 in partnership with the Chula Vista Elementary School District and Qualcomm. Planned events include a Bottle Rocket Blast Off, Search for Life – Exoplanet Hunt, and a Mars Rover Drop that simulates a fragile rover landing. “We’re pleased to connect with NASA and ALA for this project,” said Betty Waznis, Chula Vista Public Library Director. “Along with our wide array of services, materials, technology and programs for our community, we are particularly proud of our Innovation Station and our STEM learning opportunities for the public.” NASA@ My Library partners will receive NASA STEM facilitation kits with tools and hands-on activities; a tablet computer pre-loaded with STEM apps, educational games and visualizations; funding for major events; a two-day NASA training workshop for staff; and more. The project is offered by the National Center for Interactive Learning at the Space Science Institute in partnership with ALA, NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, the Pacific Science Center, Cornerstones of Science and the Education Development Center. OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
SCHOOL
/ News
Sweetwater Union High School District Graduates Thousands
“I am so proud of each graduate and student who graduated or promoted. We celebrate the achievements you’ve attained and the challenges you’ve overcome. Being an educator is the most rewarding career of all.” This is how Dr. Karen Janney, Superintendent of the Sweetwater Union High School District, described her feelings about the classes of 2017 and the role of district faculty and staff.
The Adult Schools commencement on May 26 was the first in the series. Held at Castle Park High School Stadium, Board of Trustees President Arturo Solis and member Frank Tarantino accepted the class of 2017. The following week began a series of middle and high school graduations and promotions, several held at De Vore Stadium at Southwestern College.
This year, more than 6,500 high school seniors and middle school 8th graders graduated and promoted from across South County. A total of 27 graduation and promotion ceremonies took place over four days.
In the fall, Sweetwater District high school graduates will attend several of the most prestigious universities in the United States including Harvard, Brown, Stanford, MIT, UC Berkeley, UC Los Angeles, UC San Diego and San Diego State University.
Commencement ceremonies played to standing-room-only crowds of families and other supporters who turned out to see the graduates walk the stage to receive their diplomas and certificates from members of the Sweetwater District Board of Trustees.
District Board of Trustees member Frank Tarantino inspired the graduates at several of the ceremonies by his reference to graduates who had walked the stage before them and interesting facts of things that occurred the year the students were born. Superintendent Janney heard some exceptional student speeches that shared wisdom beyond their years and inspiration galore at the ceremonies. Here are some samples of statements created by Sweetwater District students:
We are in motion on our way to success! We can build our future! We all have to have hope! We are all champions! Surround yourselves with people who inspire you! All our dreams are valued! Our lives are intertwined for life as Red Devils! Find your own passion! Time to open a new chapter in our lives! What are the moments that led you to today? YOLO – you only live once! Raise your voice! Our purpose will move us forward! Become our best selves! There is no fear that can’t be conquered! May you have the vision to follow your dreams! The world is calling for our humanity! On to pursue your dreams!
The Sweetwater District extends it best wishes to the Class of 2017 as our students spread across the nation and world as they pursue higher education, trade schools, the military and the workforce. 14 OU R HOMETOWN • J ULY 2 0 17
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OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 15
Joshua P. Mattero U.S. Army, Staff Sergeant December 6, 1977 – July 24, 2007
Kristofferson Lorenzo U.S. Army, Staff Sergeant November 8, 1977 – May 23, 2011
Michael J. Idanan U.S. Army, Sergeant KIA November 19, 2005
Charles Wyckoff Jr. U.S. Army, Sergeant November 10, 1978 – June 6, 2007
Michael J. Martinez U.S. Army, Sergeant September 24, 1982 – June 28, 2007
Salem Bachar U.S. Marines, Corporal June 24, 1985 – April 13, 2003
Curtis R. Spivey U.S. Army, Specialist November 14, 1981 – April 2, 2007
STREETS of H O N O R
STREETS of HONOR
OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17
STREETS of H O N O R
18 O U R HOMETOWN • JULY 2 0 17
STREETS of H O N O R
Hundreds of people gathered on May 26 in the Village 2 neighborhood of Otay Ranch to honor several fallen soldiers who once called Chula Vista home. The City dedicated seven new streets after the fallen soldiers who fought in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, or the Global War on Terror, as it is called by military officials. The street naming project was the vision of Chula Vista Deputy Mayor John McCann, who is also in the Navy Reserve. Chula Vista prides itself with having a strong relationship with the military community, and these new streets will join over 85 others currently named for fallen veterans of previous wars. The keynote speaker at the ceremony was Rear Admiral James McNeal from the U.S. Navy. Here are some of his words:
“
Ladies and gentlemen, today we honor seven local heroes…These men made the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of freedom. We can never repay this debt. Our strength as a nation is drawn from military heroes like them. America is the country it is because young men and women from Chula Vista—and from around our nation—are willing to forego wearing a business suit and forego strolling down Easy Street to instead wear the cloth of our nation. To instead travel along an uncertain road fraught with danger and to live lives that matter on a fundamental level. Today, Chula Vista honors seven of these fallen heroes, all veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Let me tell you about each of these young men, so when you see their names as you drive these streets named in their honor, you can remember their sacrifice for your freedoms.
”
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STREETS of H O N O R
MARINE CORPS CORPORAL
SALEM BACHAR
Salem attended Chula Vista High School. After graduation, he enlisted with the Marine Corps. He was based locally at Camp Pendleton and deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom as part of the First Marine Division—1 Marine Expeditionary Force. Salem had a gift for languages. He spoke English, Spanish, and Arabic fluently. Because of this talent, he was pulled from the front lines to be a translator. He was returning from a special assignment when his unit was ambushed in Karmah, Iraq. Salem was 20 years old when he died on April 13, 2006.
ARMY STAFF SERGEANT
ARMY STAFF SERGEANT
KRISTOFFERSON LORENZO Kris was born in Manila, Philippines. In high school he was active in Junior ROTC and was a member of the color guard. Kris was in the Army, assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division and assigned to the 1st Platoon, “A” Company, in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. He was a platoon leader who was highly regarded by members of his platoon and his superiors. On May 23, 2011 Sergeant Lorenzo was mortally wounded when his unit was attacked with an improvised explosive device (IED) while in Afghanistan. Three other soldiers were killed in the same attack.
MICHAEL IDANAN Michael was born in the Philippines but raised in California after his mother decided to make a fresh start in the U.S. They settled in Daly City, but Michael moved to Chula Vista to live with his uncle, Nelson Riley. Michael enlisted in the Army shortly after his cousin, Brian, did. Brian said that the last time he saw his cousin was by chance. Both were assigned to separate divisions, but in 2003 they were at Camp Victory, Kuwait. Michael’s Uncle Nelson said that he noticed positive changes in his nephew when he came home for a visit and was impressed that he had been pinned with a meritorious service medal with valor. Michael was killed in combat operations in Iraq on November 19, 2005.
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ARMY SERGEANT
MICHAEL MARTINEZ
Michael joined the Army shortly after graduating Eastlake High School. He was based at Fort Carson, Colorado as part of the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat, 2nd Infantry Division. He went overseas twice, serving two tours supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Michael was just 24 years old when he encountered an IED on the frontlines. He died on June 28, 2007 in southern Baghdad, Iraq.
ARMY STAFF SERGEANT
JOSHUA MATTERO Joshua grew up in Chula Vista and went to Castle Park High School. He was an Eagle Scout and performed community service by re-sodding the soccer field and installing a new sprinkler system at the school. He joined the Army and became a chemical operations specialist. Then, he went to bomb disposal school where he was at the top of his class. Joshua was 29 years old and a nine-year Army veteran on his second tour in Iraq and third in the region when he died. He was killed July 24, 2007 while disarming an IED when a secondary device exploded.
ARMY SPECIALIST
CURTIS SPIVEY Curtis was from Chula Vista and attended Hilltop High School. He joined the Army after graduation and was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. Curtis was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and was part of the 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. He was 25 years old when he died on April 2, 2007 in San Diego from injuries suffered on the battlefield in Iraq.
ARMY SERGEANT
CHARLES WYCKOFF, JR. Charles graduated from Chula Vista High School. He joined the Army and was based out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Charles was deployed to serve Operation Enduring Freedom and was part of the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. He was 28 years old when he died on June 6, 2007 in Kabul, Afghanistan.
“THESE ARE THE FINE MEN WHO WILL DEFINE MONTECITO VILLAGE IN CHULA VISTA. WE ARE PRIVILEGED THAT THIS COMMUNITY WILL BEAR THE NAMES OF SUCH SELFLESS AMERICANS. MAY AMERICANS FOR GENERATIONS TO COME SILENTLY HONOR THESE PATRIOTS AS THEY WALK THESE STREETS.” - ADMIRAL MCNEAL
As Admiral McNeal read the biography of the seven soldiers, Deputy Mayor McCann presented to each family a street sign named after their fallen soldier. There was hardly a dry eye during the dedication. Friends and families of the soldiers came from all over the region as word spread that their loved ones were to have a street named in their honor. Veterans groups joined the commemoration, including the VFW, American Legion, and residents from the Veterans Home in Chula Vista. Deputy Mayor John McCann said at the closing, “Naming these streets after these soldiers is the least we could do to show our gratitude for their service. We are eternally grateful for their service to our country.” Admiral McNeal ended his speech by saying, “God bless [these men], their families and this community. May God bless every one of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines—past and present—who answered our nation’s call. And may God bless America. Thank you.”
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ON TOPIC A T I R E L E S S E F FO R T By Lenda Kaplan
Dave Kaplan just celebrated 20 years of employment at the City of Chula Vista. He is a traffic engineer who reads traffic impact reports written by contractors who want to know how their new building project will affect traffic flow in the city. Dave is very handy with his red pen on these reports in order to ensure that the Chula Vista street traffic continuously flows. Some of you may know that Dave Kaplan’s “Traffic Claim to Fame” is the triple left turn lane at the corner of Burger King (near Costco) and H Street. The first triple left turn in Chula Vista was created, again, to ensure that street traffic flows. But I don’t think you can guess what Dave does for a sideline, or as Dave calls it, his “daily mitzvah” or good deed. For the last 18 years on his daily walks he has picked up nails and other sharp objects from our roads in order to prevent them from penetrating your vehicle’s tires or shoes.
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For the last 18 years on his daily walks he has picked up nails and other sharp objects from our roads in order to prevent them from penetrating your vehicle’s tires or shoes.
No one has ever thanked Dave for his tireless pursuit of nails, but he has assured me that the highway to heaven is paved with his daily mitzvah. It takes an eagle eye to collect all the sharp nails, tacks, screws, etc. that inhabit the numerous giant pickle jars that line Dave’s City of Chula Vista office. He has not been thanked, but cursed, for his heroic efforts. There’s no telling how many times these road hazards have made their way into his family’s laundry. The constant clanking in the dryer reminds Dave’s wife of his daily mitzvah and the dozens of times that she has darned his pockets over the last 18 years.
More recently, Dave got up in the morning for work and made himself a cup of coffee. As is his habit, Dave adds half of a Sweet’N Low package to his coffee and then stirs it with his spoon. This particular morning he had prepared his coffee in the semi-dark kitchen. He stirred his coffee with a spoon, and to his consternation heard an unfamiliar clank clank clank. “What?!” Dave thought silently in order not to wake his sleeping family. “What is a sharp screw doing in my coffee cup?” By creative thinking and much deduction Dave figured it out. He had
picked up this particular screw a week prior, and after his walk had found an empty Sweet’N Low package, into which he placed the screw. This was to prevent the sharp screw from piercing his pants pocket. Later that evening he emptied his pockets on the kitchen table, forgetting about the screw. Dave’s wife returned the Sweet’N Low packet to the coffee service jar where Dave prepares his morning coffee. The real question is, what becomes of the pickle jars when Dave retires on July 5, 2017?
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OUT & ABOUT
J U LY SUMMER SWIM LESSONS run through July 20 @ Parkway Aquatic Center, 385 Park Way in Chula Vista. Classes are for ages six months to adults; Saturday lessons are available. Visit www.chulavistaca.gov/goto/ swim for more info.
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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 five-day “LEGO Engineers” camp for children ages 10+, or in grades four through six. To register, send an email to librarian David Janning at djanning@ chulavista.lib.ca.us. Camp is free; space is limited.
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CHULA VISTA 4TH FEST @ 6 – 9 p.m. @ Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, 2800 Olympic Pkwy in Chula Vista. The event is free and open to all. Find your perfect spot and watch a spectacular firework show. Firework display begins at 9 p.m. and will be celebrated with special, simultaneous music on the radio. No alcohol is allowed on the CVEATC campus. For more info, visit 4thfestival.com.
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MUSIC IN THE PARK @ 4 – 7 p.m. @ Memorial Bowl, 373 Park Way in Chula Vista. Enjoy an evening of free, family fun. Listen to the Latin American rhythms of Bulevar Descarga and enjoy the activities provided. For more info, visit chulavistaca. gov/MusicinThePark.
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CONVERSATIONS WORTH HAVING: THE SURPRISING SCIENCE OF HAPPINESS @ 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Plaza, 1420 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Presented by SDSU’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Cost is $19. Call (619) 594-2863 for more info.
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FILM FORUM @ 5:30 – 8 p.m. at Chula Vista Civic Center Auditorium, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. Enjoy a mini concert featuring "NPR" (Vincent Tapia, Blake Roberts & Friends), followed by a film screening of "This Beautiful Fantastic" at 6 p.m. This is a free, all-ages event. MARINE CORPS LEAGUE DETACHMENT 1207 MEETING @ 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. @ Veteran’s Home, Bldg F, 700 E. Naples Court in Chula Vista. Join former and retired Marines/Navy/Army/Air Force. Call (619) 227-9535 with questions.
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PARKING LOT SALE @ 6 a.m – noon @ Otay Recreation Center, 3554 Main Street in Chula Vista. Space is available if you’re like to reserve a spot; fee is only $10 and all proceeds go to you! Shop to benefit the rec center. FAMILY MOVIE AND FUN FEST @ 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. @ Brengle Terrace Park, 1200 Vale Terrace Drive in Chula Vista. Bring your picnic and a blanket to this free, family event will kick off with face painting, activities, bounce houses and more. The movie “Moana” (rated PG) will begin at 8 p.m.
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SEMINAR WITH THE SENIOR ADVOCATE NETWORK @ 12 – 1 p.m. @ Sweetwater Community Church, 5305 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. Local professions in areas affecting seniors, eldercare, Medicare, hospice, in-home care and veterans’ benefits will address recent updates.
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FILM FORUM @ 6 – 8 p.m. at Chula Vista Civic Center Auditorium, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. The classic film, “Strangers on a Train” will be discussed with Film Forum founder Ralph DeLauro. The discussion series is a free event on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Sponsored by the Friends of the Chula Vista Library.
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WE HONOR VETERANS LUNCH AND LEARN @ 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Plaza, 1420 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. RSVP at mjohn@stpaulseniors.org.
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SOUTH BAYFRONT POWWOW @ 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Marina View Park, 900 Marina Way in Chula Vista. This annual inter-tribal celebration of traditional dances and music is an organized collaboration with the Soaring Eagles Dance Troupe and Capuli Mexica Azteca dance group.
CHULA VISTA’S GOT TALENT COMPETITION @ Terra Nova Plaza, 394 E. H Street in Chula Vista—Participation is free and open to Chula Vista residents of all ages; Winners will walk away with prizes totaling $2,000 in cash. 06 AUDITIONS @ 3 – 7 p.m. 20 SEMIFINALS @ 7 p.m. 27 FINALS @ 7 p.m.
MOVIE NIGHTS IN THE PARKS The Empower Hour invites you to a free, fun evening at the park. Activities begin at 5:30 p.m. and movies begin at dusk. For more info, visit chulavistaca.gov/Rec.
JULY 08: SECRET LIVES OF PETS @ Heritage Park, 1381 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Rated PG. JULY 14: STAR WARS ROGUE ONE @ Memorial Park, 373 Park Way in Chula Vista. Rated PG-13. JULY 28: FINDING DORY @ Montevalle Park, 840 Duncan Ranch Road in Chula Vista. Rated PG. AUGUST 05: LEGO BATMAN @ Veterans Park, 785 East Palomar in Chula Vista. Rated PG.
For additional details, visit www. terranovaplaza.com/chula-vistagot-talent.
SAVE THE DATE SUMMER SUNDAYS @ 5 – 7 p.m. at Village Walk, on Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive in Eastlake. Don’t miss the face painting, balloon sculptures, free photo booth and merchant samples. 02 GRACELAND and a 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. 09 JOE RATHBURN'S ISLAND and a car club exhibit by Italian Exotics. Free treasure box craft activity. 16 UNITED COUNTRY and a car club exhibit by South Bay Cruisers. Free cowboy hat craft activity.
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08/06 LEMON FESTIVAL @ 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Third Avenue from E to G Street in Chula Vista. Rejoice in this juicy jubilee with the community by sporting your brightest yellow outfit and enjoying lemon-infused activities, live bands, contests, a kid’s fun zone, a craft beer garden, and hundreds of festive booths! For more info, visit www. thirdavenuevillage.com. 08/15 LOW RIDER CAR SHOW @ 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. @ 654 L Street in Chula Vista. Registration fee is $10. Call (619) 961-5163 for more info.
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BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS YOUTH ACTION COUNCIL
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
The Youth Action Council establishes a communication link between Chula Vista youth and the City Council. Members are primarily engaged in a variety of community service projects that involve outreach to their neighbors and peers. The council provides opportunities for students to further connect with their community and become informed stakeholders.
The Parks and Recreation Commission works with the Recreation Department to advise the City Council on issues related to parks, open space, playgrounds, and recreation programs. The Commission also assists in planning programs for the community and stimulating interest for these programs among City residents.
The Youth Action Council has been involved in a variety of activities. The council has focused on the arts with yearly events such as Poetry Slam, which supported youth artists and provided them a platform of expression. The council has also partnered with the city’s conservation team to identify how to engage high school youth to reduce, reuse, and recycle; participated in tutoring youth in low-income neighborhoods; and has hosted story times and crafts for children who are victims of domestic violence.
This July, the Parks and Recreation Commission will be an advocate for Parks and Recreation month. This year’s theme, “Get Your Play On,” recognizes that parks and recreation programs and services are vitally important to the quality of life in our communities and enrich the lives of Chula Vista residents and visitors.
This year the council will focus on hosting community conversations. Through identifying the aspirations that youth have for their community, the council will participate in building asset maps of teens’ interests and skills within our community as well as brainstorming ideas and solutions toward action. The goal is to reach into the community while increasing civic engagement. The Youth Action Council is composed of high school students in grades 10, 11, or 12 who are Chula Vista residents. Members serve one-year, renewable terms from September 1 through June 30. To find out more about the how to build our community by engaging our youth or to join the Youth Action Council, please contact Joy Whatley at (619) 397-5740 or jwhatley@chulavistaca.gov.
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The Parks and Recreation Commission encourages you to “Get Your Play On” in Chula Vista. Whether you’re looking for classes for your preschooler, swim lessons for all family members, enrichment opportunities to keep your children engaged over the summer break; seeking to boost your child's sports skills; or simply looking for new and interesting activities, the Chula Vista Recreation Department has a class or program for every interest.
For more information on recreation programs and services, please visit www.chulavistaca.gov/rec.
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