C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
FREE
AUGUST 2017
Harbor Fest
Live Music Performances
Tacos and Spirits Discovery Zone
BOARDS & COMMISSIONS: MOBILEHOME RENT REVIEW COMMISION AND HOUSING ADVISORY COMMISSION
CONTENTS/ EDITOR'S LETTER When I think of the month of August, my first thoughts are usually of my birthday, the Perseid meteor shower and rising summer temperatures. When I think of August in Chula Vista, the Lemon Festival, HarborFest, and the many outdoor music and movie nights come to mind. One of the unique traits of Chula Vista is the number of activities that are available to families and individuals throughout the summer. You’ve read articles about kayaking, hiking, wine tasting and many other local and regional offerings. This month we focus on the festivals. The Lemon Festival kicks off the month on August 6 on Third Avenue. Typical festival activities—live music, beer garden, children’s fun—are certainly present, but where else can you go for lemon pie eating, lemon peeling, or largest lemon contests? Don your brightest yellow shirt and drink some cool lemonade while celebrating Chula Vista’s heritage. Mid-month, on August 19, HarborFest returns to Bayside Park. Participate in water activities, check out the art show or classic car display, vote for your favorite taco and stretch with yoga. Take along your dog, your kids or your friends. There really is something for everything at this summer event. Finally, every weekend you can enjoy free outdoor entertainment at one of our local parks. E.T. is one of my personal favorite movies showing this summer, but the new Beauty and the Beast is pretty terrific. Other movies offered include Lego Batman, A Dog’s Purpose, Jungle Book and Moana. However you spend your summer nights and weekends this month, I hope you enjoy them.
A U G U S T 2 0 17
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
14 FEATURE City by the Bay: Harborfest
22 SCHOOL NEWS New Elementary School Opens
25 CALENDAR Out & About
26 BOARDS & COMMISSIONS Mobilehome Rent Review Commission and Housing Advisory Commission
“Because it’s summer and the memories are just waiting to happen.” –Unknown.
—AMBER WEBER, editor OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3
BRAVO
. . . great things happening in our community
PUBLISHED BY
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
MELISSA MONROY, Design
Advertising inquiries: Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com. Editorial Contributions: Amber Weber at Editor@OurHometownMag.com. Visit us online at www.OurHometownMag.com. Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. OHTM Inc. is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or advertisers. OHTM Inc has the right to refuse advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. at 4 O(619) U R 840−7722. H OMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 17
› To REECE VILLARIN
› To the BONITA OPTIMIST
AKANA (pictured above),
FOUNDATION for sponsoring
a recent Harvard University graduate, who publicly thanked ProKids Golf Academy and Southern California Golf Association (SCGA) for their scholarships. Reece spoke at the Annual ProKids Gala in Torrey Pines and gave another speech at the Scholars Dinner in Los Angeles for SCGA. His speeches focused on sharing his experiences at Harvard, giving college tips, and thanking the organizations that gave him scholarships.
the Heroes for Children Golf Tournament, which raised $9,550. Proceeds from the Friday, June 22 event will support childhood cancer research, foster youth, elementary high-achieving students, high school scholars, local athletic teams, and local music groups. Major sponsors of the event included E & E Industries, Perry Plumbing, Ball Auto Group, Koala Financial, Epsilon Systems Solutions, LPL Financial, St. Paul Senior Assisted Living, and Garcia’s Kitchen from Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Reece graduated cum laude in 2017 with a B.A. in chemical and physical biology and a minor in music. He has been accepted into the Stanford University Ph.D. cancer biology program and will begin this September. He graduated from Olympian High School in Chula Vista in 2013. Reece is the son of Roy and Nimpa Akana.
The annual tournament featured a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. and 72 players, all hoping to win the coveted trophies and prize money. After a ball drop over the putting green, which yielded a $1,000 award, the golfers enjoyed a BBQ dinner, silent auction and a live auction.
The brand new car at the hole-in-one on number 9 went unclaimed for another year as the Monahan & Roth Group won the 1st place as “Heroes for Children.” The featured prize, The Woody Woodpecker Award, went to the person who hit the most trees; his name shall remain anonymous until next year. The putting contest and the long drive contest were the best, with the women putting up some tough competition for the men. Harley Perry’s live auction was tough to ignore as he brought in the dollars for donated items. Thanks to all who made this event possible and helped many children!
› To MAAC, a non-profit organization and affiliate of UnidosUS, for being honored as Affiliate of the Year by UnidosUS and the Ford Motor Company Fund. Since 1965, MAAC has been
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.
committed to giving people in our communities the tools needed to elevate their quality of life. More than 70,000 people are served each year through access to high-quality programs in five key areas of focus: affordable housing, economic development, education, health and wellbeing, and advocacy and leadership development. In 1987, MAAC became an affiliate of UnidosUS, previously known as NCLR (National Council of La Raza), the nation’s largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization with 260 affiliates throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. “We are proud to have partnered with MAAC for 30 years and look forward to continuing to work with this organization that has helped so many Latino families overcome housing and educational barriers. The work they do to promote the betterment of Latinos in San Diego has contributed to making the broader community more prosperous,” said NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía. “We love our work and are honored to be recognized for its positive impact,” said MAAC President and CEO Arnulfo Manriquez. For more information about the programs and services that MAAC offers, visit www.maacproject.com or call (619) 426-3595.
› To CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATES (CDA) for being honored as "Nonprofit of the Year" at the 2017 California Nonprofits Day Celebration in Sacramento. CDA was selected by Assemblywoman Shirley Weber as an exceptional nonprofit organization in her 79th District community. CDA joined nearly 100 other non-profits from across the state being honored at the annual event. CDA is a community based, non-profit agency that has provided child care and development services throughout San Diego County since 1974. It provides low-income families access to high-quality, early education to children, affordable childcare so parents can work or complete their education, and nutritious meals to children. "We are incredibly honored to be selected by Assemblywoman Shirley Weber for this award. Her support for our efforts and dedication towards creating positive change for families, children and child care providers in our community is invaluable," said Rick Richardson, President and CEO of CDA. The award recipients were honored at a luncheon at Sacramento's Convention Center on June 28. Honorable guests included Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, Assemblywoman Monique Limón, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra and Jan Masaoka, CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits). OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Marine Corps League Open to Veterans
The Marine Corps League in the South Bay is looking for “a few good men, women, and veterans,” according to Commandant Jim Thomas. Detachment 1207, the Col. Mitchell Paige Detachment, is similar to the VFW and American Legion, but leans more towards keeping alive the ideals, traditions, histories, community involvement, and camaraderie of the Marines. Among the leaders of the South Bay Detachment, Mr. Thomas has served as Commandant for three years. A longtime Chula Vista resident, he retired as a Marine Artillery and Nuclear-Chemical-Biological Weapons Employment Officer in 1982, and has since owned his own travel agency.
participates each year in the Chula Vista Veterans Walk, a four-mile walk from the Veterans Home to the VFW on I Street in Chula Vista.
He says he likes to stay involved with the local Detachment because “it is very active in the community helping veterans, and I still enjoy ‘rubbing shoulders’ with my fellow military people.” The Detachment is and has been a major supporter of the Wounded Warriors Battalions composed of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans; supports and interacts with the Student Veterans Organization at Southwestern College, including awarding scholarships to its members; is involved with the California Veterans Home in Chula Vista in supporting its Founder’s Day and other events; plus helps organize and
Past Commandant, Mike Reddy, a Vietnam vet, former recruiter, longtime insurance agent and a Bonita resident, says he likes organizing and participating each year in the 4th of July Parade in Coronado. “I watched that parade many times as a kid, but it is really different and a real ‘kick’ riding and walking in it and waving to…everyone showing their patriotic pride.” The Detachment is a part of the parade annually.
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The Judge Advocate of the Detachment, longtime Chula Vista resident, Korean War vet, retired Marine of more than 30 years, and past San Diego County Veteran of the Year, Virgil Whitehead, said, “Our Detachment is one of the most active every year in the Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots campaign, and achieves awards for its leadership. “It is really satisfying knowing that doing what we do will help youngsters have a better Christmas each year.”
Commandant Thomas said, “Besides the aforementioned activities, we actively support and work with the Young
Marines, the Gold Star and the Blue Star Parents, and interact closely with the other veterans organizations in the area.” He says a yearly highlight is “our annual participation at the Veterans Home celebrating a combined Veterans Day and the Marine Corps Birthday, including a Marine Corps Band, Marine Corps Recruiters, the Young Marines, Color Guards from Miramar and San Diego, and Honor Guards. We have a great ceremony, a bar-b-que, and lots of fun.” Commandant Thomas says the Detachment is “actively recruiting members, and although we do lean towards Marine Corps ideals, we have active duty and veterans from all branches of the military participating with us.”
For more information on how to join the Marine Corps League, contact either Commandant Thomas at (619) 227-9535 or plwt@cox.net, or Mike Reddy at (619) 206-8680 or m.p.reddy@att.net. The Detachment currently meets the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in Building F at the Chula Vista Veterans Home at 700 E. Naples Ct. in Chula Vista.
On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners Invited to Attend the Ultimate Small Business Workshop
Have you ever thought about starting your own business? Have you wondered what it would take as far as capital, licenses, permits and lease agreements? Is it the right time to step away from your job and become your own boss? These are all good questions, and the answers may be closer than you think. The Ultimate Small Business Workshop is designed to help you navigate through the obstacles and pitfalls that historically plague the success of a small The ultimate business startup.
goal for this small business workshop is to equip participants to fully understand what it takes to have a fighting chance as a small business owner.
“Let’s make one thing clear: this is not a high-pressure sales workshop or any form of network or multilevel marketing,” states Michael Monaco, event coordinator and owner of Our Hometown Magazine. “It is our goal to educate potential and existing small business owners on all aspect of running a small business based on fact, experience, trial and error,” Michael adds.
This four-part series (Aug. 21, 28 and Sept. 11, 18) will break down systematically the best multi-step process to take. Speakers include industry experts like a business attorney, CPA, small business lenders, business bankers, a payroll specialist, merchant card processors, a healthcare provider for small businesses, and professional networking organizations. Media forms to help market and advertise your business will also be addressed, with no selling—just facts and truths about products and services that support small business success. Learn the inside scoop on business products and find out the answers to the following questions about merchant card fees: Why are there so many fees? What are they for? Do I really need them? Marty Mead with First Data will show you the right way to acquire the best processing services and help 8 OU R H OMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 17
On your Doorstep
YMCA Campers Participate in Olympic Day Celebration with Olympians
The South Bay Family YMCA, the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center and the San Diego Olympians and Paralympians Association came together to host a National Olympic Day celebration on Friday, June 23.
you safely navigate the world of credit card processing. “There is a benefit in using merchant card processing if you know what to look for,” said Marty. The ultimate goal for this small business workshop is to equip participants to understand fully what it takes to have a fighting chance as a small business owner. For example, “Did you know that a business entity is a legal entity that could only be protected if it is set up as a corporation? A properly set up and managed corporation will also protect the personal assets of the owners and will be that legal shield against personal liability in most instances,” stated Ko Sharif of Sharif– Faust Lawyers, one of the workshop guest speakers. These events are scheduled weekly with a two-week break in the middle so participants can take time to digest and apply what they have learned. This event is hosted by Our Hometown Magazine and Harmony Fair Connections, a woman-owned, small business collaboration. “It is one of our main missions to provide essential training to small home-based business entrepreneurs with an affordable opportunity to create a sound business foundation that grows into success,” adds Jo Williams.
Registration opens at 6 p.m., and each series starts promptly at 6:30 and goes until 9 p.m. There will be a break, and refreshments are served. The cost for all four workshops is $100; register and pay for all four for a 20% discount. Materials and outline will be provided. Childcare will be available at $10 per child per series. Space to attend and childcare are limited. Register today at ContactUs@HarmonyFairConnections.com.
The celebration was held at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center with over 50 YMCA campers participating in mock Olympic games with eight Olympians, who are part of the San Diego Olympians and Paralympians Association. The partnership with the YMCA and San Diego Olympians and Paralympians Association is new, as the athletes recently branched off from the Southern California Olympians and Paralympians Association to better connect with the San Diego community. “We are excited to be able to spend time with these kids and share the message of what Olympic day is about. Sharing our experiences and journey hopefully will help motivate the next generation of athletes,” said Erin Aldrich-Shean, president of the San Diego Olympians and Paralympians Association and a former track-andfield Olympian. Through this new partnership, the YMCA campers spent more time with the Olympic athletes than in past years. They also participated in various Olympic-themed sports and learned about the Training Center as part of the effort to promote fitness and well-being. The event was an ideal way for the Olympic athletes to connect and share their story with a younger generation to provide inspiration. The Olympic ideals of friendship, respect and excellence are similar to the YMCA’s four character-development values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, which made the partnership between these organizations a mutually beneficial opportunity to help the next generation of athletes thrive.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Bayfront Forum to be Held August 30
Chula Vista Hosts Annual Lemon Festival Squeeze some fun into your summer at the 21st annual Lemon Festival presented by Third Avenue Village Association in Chula Vista's original neighborhood on Sunday, August 6. Sweet, sour, summer fun will fill Third Avenue from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at no cost to the community to celebrate Chula Vista's historic reign as the lemon capital of the world. Third Avenue will close to traffic and open to hundreds of vendor booths, welcoming over 35,000 eager attendees rejoicing in this juicy jubilee. Sport your brightest yellow outfit and enjoy lemon-infused activities, live bands, sour contests, kid's fun zone, craft beer garden, and hundreds of festive booths. Lemonade Bandstand in Memorial Park will be rocking with live bands, and the Citrus Stage at E Street will feature tangy tunes and local artistry. Attendees will have the opportunity to compete for glory and prizes in the Lemon Pie Eating, Lemon Peeling and Largest Lemon contests. All guests are encouraged to wear yellow to showcase their Chula Vista pride. The Festival Fun Zone is located at F Street, where bungee rides, a rock wall, and more will delight thrill seekers of all ages. Overflowing with interactive features and giveaways from community partners, this over 20-year tradition is more refreshing than the fresh-squeezed lemonade offered in abundance. The Lemon Festival Craft Beer Garden, in Memorial Park, will quench the thirst of adults with zest for something stronger than lemonade, featuring local craft breweries and a variety of flavors from Mike's Hard Lemonade.
Don your best lemon yellow attire in the Third Avenue Village on Sunday, August 6, for the sweetest-sour Lemon Festival to date. More information and juicy details will be available at www.thirdavenuevillage.com.
After more than two decades of planning and public outreach, the renaissance of the Chula Vista Bayfront is becoming a reality! Pacifica, RIDA, Sun Communities and Northgate Resorts are poised to go forward with projects that will transform the Chula Vista waterfront into an exciting destination for residents of the South Bay and San Diego County as well as visitors from around the globe. A major milestone was reached on June 20, when the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners and the Chula Vista City Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing a letter of intent with RIDA Chula Vista, LLC for the development of a resort hotel and convention center. “This historic decision is a big step forward in realizing the potential of our bayfront as a tourist destination and as a recreational place for our neighbors,” said Chula Vista Mayor Mary Casillas Salas. With approximately 1,450 hotel rooms, 275,000 usable square feet of convention and meeting space, and associated retail and resort-style amenities, the project will anchor the Chula Vista Bayfront and catalyze development in the surrounding area. “The Chula Vista Bayfront project is a new model for development and will be a significant achievement in job creation and economic prosperity for the region,” said Commissioner Ann Moore, Board of Port Commissioners, Port of San Diego. “Through innovative and collaborative partnerships, we are making the impossible possible.” Coupled with the RIDA development, Pacifica, Sun Communities and Northgate Resorts are well on the way to delivering additional bayfront residences, dining, shopping and hospitality options within the 550-acre project area. On August 30, the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce, PSAR, the South County EDC and the San Diego Port Tenants Association will join with the Port, the City of Chula Vista and selected developers to present the Chula Vista Bayfront plan, including conceptual renderings, park and trail settings and waterfront improvements.
The presentation will take place in the Chula Vista City Council Chambers between 2 and 5 p.m. on Wednesday, August 30. Attendees will need to reserve seats, in advance, by calling the Chamber of Commerce at (619) 934-0487. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
On your Doorstep
Who’s Watching Your Neighborhood?
A recent survey of residents 45+ in Chula Vista indicated that only half of respondents were familiar with the City’s Neighborhood Watch program. Neighborhood Watch is a partnership between police and residents to prevent crime and disorder in our communities. The City of Chula Vista’s most active Neighborhood Watch program started in the Bonita area in 2012 and currently has over 100 households participating. According to Block Captain George Gillow, “We have fewer home and vehicle breakins and other crimes than we did five years ago and have lower crime rates than many nearby areas. Neighbors are watching out for each other and reporting suspicious activity to police. This is of high importance in making our program successful.”
Neighbors have learned to curb crime by keeping doors and windows locked, parking cars in garages and not leaving valuables in sight in outdoor vehicles. In addition, many have installed locked mail boxes which help reduce mail theft. They also share crime prevention tips, stay informed in the latest cybercrimes, and have even been successful in helping neighbors find lost pets, including a turtle. Don’t have a community watch in your neighborhood yet? Sign up for important information and safety alerts through:
CHULA VISTA NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH FACEBOOK PAGE
Keep updated on the latest crime prevention strategies and to learn from other neighborhood watch groups.
NIXLE
A free, secure communication that sends traffic, police, and community news from the City to your email or cell phone.
NEXTDOOR A smart phone application and website that allows residents in your neighborhood to post. Chula Vista Police and the County also post community events and emergency information.
↸ YANA PROGRAM
A phone check-in program for seniors and persons with disabilities, and Vacation Check, a daily home-check program while homeowners are away, are both run by the Senior Volunteer Patrol. Learn more at (619) 476-2417.
Most importantly, take charge of your safety and become a community leader by initiating a Neighborhood Watch program.
For more information, visit http://bit.ly/cv-neighborhoodwatch, e-mail againes@chulavistapd.org or call the Community Relations Unit at (619) 691-5187. 12 OU R HOMETOWN • AUGUST 2 0 17
On your Doorstep
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HARBORFEST
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HARBORFEST
y t Ci Bay BY THE
SATURDAY
AUGUST 19 |
C H U L A V I S TA
Harbor Fest
10 AM − 6 PM
Soak up the summertime sun alongside the crystal waters of the San Diego Bay at Chula Vista HarborFest in this free, all−ages celebration. With live music, hands−on activities, scrumptious food, unique vendors and incredible weather, this day is sure to be a summer highlight. At Bayside Park near the Chula Vista Marina, HarborFest will offer activities on a diverse scale to reach every interest. Whether it is a family affair or an afternoon with friends, you are destined to have a day full of fun, laughter and sunshine.
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ATTENDEES CAN INDULGE... WITH UNLIMITED SAMPLINGS OF FOOD AND DRINK
THE TACO & SPIRITS
WHILE BEING SERENADED BY LIVE MUSIC AND ENJOYING THE BEAUTY OF BAYSIDE PARK
REVOLUTION
Step into the revolution of 2017 at HarborFest! For its third year in a row, the Taco & Spirits Revolution returns to Bayside Park where chefs and spirit companies compete for the title of #1 Taco and #1 Spirit. Feast your way through 15 delicious restaurants, and let your voice be heard when you vote for your favorite taco. Attendees can indulge until a decision is made with unlimited samplings of food and drink while being serenaded by live music and enjoying the beauty of Bayside Park, right along the waterfront. Sip on spirits from local distilleries like Tequila Fortaleza, 619 Spirits, Tequila Don Ramon, St. Petersburg Vodka, HB Spirits and more! New this year, ticket holders can also enjoy samples of local craft beers from Bay Bridge Brewing and Mike Hess Brewing. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., taste it all with tacos from these great restaurants:
• The Main Course • Villa Cervantes • Maquina 65 • Aqui Es Texcoco • Birrira Barriga • Tacosteno • Don Chente • La Mestiza
• Cien Anos Restaurante • Silvestre • Mariscos German • Casanova Fish Tacos • Tacos El Rorro • NV Personal Dining • La Cocina Secreta
Tickets in advance are $25 for unlimited tacos and spirits and $30 the day of the event. Not into spirits? No problem—you can indulge in tacos only for $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event.
THE SOUNDS OF HARBORFEST
With four stages of live music playing all day long, be sure to grab your dancing shoes before heading to Bayside Park. Discover your Latin roots at our Latin Beats stage, or boogie on over to the HarborFest Main Stage. New this year is the Mariachi Circle Stage, where you can hear the sounds of mariachi bands throughout HarborFest. Local bands from around the international border will be playing musical melodies all day long. The Chula Vista Community Stage offers something for every interest and is a great place to dance the day away with family, friends and neighbors. Be on the lookout for the incredible entertainment line-up to be announced.
HARBORFEST
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HARBORFEST
DISCOV ER
YOUR WILD SIDE Step out of your comfort zone and release your inner child in the Discovery Zone. Test your balance as you race across the water in Water Rollers, challenge your friends in a game of outdoor laser tag, and jump over the moon on a bungee jump. Cast out a line and learn to fish, or paddle out to the seven seas on the stand up paddle boards. Be sure to have a camera to capture your wildest moments.
CHULA VISTA
CLASSIC CAR EXPO Cruise your way through over 40 classic automobiles at the Car Expo. Admire the unique paint jobs, body style and interiors of these timeless vehicles, and cast your vote on the People’s Choice Award. Whether you’re a car expert, an amateur or simply enjoy the beauty of classic cars, be sure to check out this great show.
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ART
IN THE PARK Allow your creative side to take over as you stroll through the bayfront to admire the stunning pieces from local San Diego artists. Get to know the artists, browse their work and even take home a new art piece to display in your home.
THE GREEN ZONE Grow your mind and learn how to help the environment in the Green Zone. Proud to be one of the most environmentally focused cities nationwide, Chula Vista brings experts to answer all of your sustainability questions at HarborFest.
PET PARADE AND PET OASIS
Strap on those leashes and grab your furry friend; the Pet Parade and Pet Oasis are back! Strut your paws throughout the festival grounds and compete for prizes. Each furry companion receives a goodie bag full of pet items and oodles of attention from all. Only 50 spots are open, so sign your four-legged friend up early. After the parade, the pets can soak up the sun in the Pet Oasis where pups can sit in the shade and enjoy cold water and treats.
N E W FOR 2017 Stretch your body to its limits with Chula Vista’s own Hapa Yoga Studio. Classes will be offered all day long, for beginners and experienced yogis alike, so find your inner peace at HarborFest. Whether you’re aligning your chakras or kicking up into a handstand, you may find your new hobby at this year’s event.
HARBORFEST
PIANO & KEYBOARD
LESSONS
• CAREER PIANO TEACHER • PRIVATE IN-HOME LESSONS • BEGINNER, INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED MUSIC READING THEORY & M.I.D.I.
PLEASE CALL
619-395-0454 GORDON KOHL
Music
Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
HARBORFEST
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Enjoy HarborFest 2017, brought to you by the City of Chula Vista and presented by the Port of San Diego.
It’s a great opportunity to explore green initiatives, stroll through exotic automobile displays and peruse a vibrant art exhibition with breathtaking ocean views as a backdrop.
Visit cvharborfest.com, email HarborFest@ mcfarlanepromotions.com, or call (619) 233-5008 for more information.
ď‚‚ Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
SCHOOL
/ News
New Saburo Muraoka Elementary School Opens
The Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) Board of Education, city officials, staff, community members, construction manager Balfour Beatty and project architect Ruhnau Clarke were present at the July 14 ribbon-cutting and dedication of Saburo Muraoka Elementary School, the newest campus in the District. The showcase campus is located at 1644 Santa Alexia Avenue, near Santa Victoria Avenue. The school cost about $51 million, including the purchase of 10.3 acres. The eye-catching two-story structure includes 36 classrooms, “makerspaces,” a stunning digital media/library space and a multipurpose room. The Board 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, his business, and community. Muraoka died in 1983. “The school’s design and learning environment will mirror the innovative spirit of Saburo Muraoka,” said Superintendent Francisco Escobedo. “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.” Following the dedication ceremony, tours of campus took place. To meet the residential growth of the community, Muraoka Elementary is one of 11 campuses projected to be built by CVESD in eastern Chula Vista.
The Chula Vista Elementary School District is committed to providing equal educational, contracting, and employment opportunity to all in strict compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations. The District office that monitors compliance is the HumanResources Services and Support Office, 84 East J Street, Chula Vista, CA 91910, phone (619) 425-9600 ext. 1340. About Balfour Beatty US
Balfour Beatty US is an industry-leading provider of general contracting, at-risk construction management and design-build services for public and private sector clients across the nation. Consistently ranked among the nation‚s largest building contractors, Balfour Beatty US is the No. 6 Domestic Building Contractor as ranked by Engineering News-Record. To learn more, visit www.balfourbeattyus.com and www.bbiius.com.
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OUT & ABOUT
AUGUST SUMMER SWIM LESSONS @ two locations in Chula Vista: Parkway Aquatic Center, 385 Park Way and Loma Verde Aquatic Center, 1420 Loma Lane. Classes are for ages six months to adults; Saturday lessons are available. Classes run through September. Visit www. chulavistaca.gov/goto/swim for more info. THE ULTIMATE SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP @ 6:30 – 9 p.m. @ Christian Science Church, 41 “I” Street in Chula Vista. Learn how to build a successful small business in this four-day series. Workshops will be held on Mondays August 21, 28 and September 11, 18. Cost is $25/each session or $100/full series. Daycare will be provided at $10 per session. Limited space is available. To register, email contactus@ harmonyfairconnections.com.
BUILD A (DERBY) CAR CLINIC @ 9 a.m. – noon @ South Bay Family YMCA Goodrich Teen Center, 820 Paseo Ranchero in Chula Vista. Bring a car or make one with your family. Look at finished cars, get your questions answered, collect your part list, and get assistance with drawings and design. If you have a finished car, you may get it pre-inspected at the clinic. For more info, visit www. orangecratederby.com
05
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 thirdavenuevillage.com.
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CHULA VISTA CHAMBER BUSINESS TRADESHOW & MIXER @ 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Hosted by Brightwood College, 555 Broadway, Ste. 144 in Chula Vista. Celebrate the launch of the new electrical technician and pharmacy tech programs with an Open House for the business community. Don’t miss the hard hat tours, refreshments and hors d’oeuvres, and a drawing for a $100 Visa gift card. For more info, call the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce @ (619) 420-1269 or email info@ chulavistachamber.org.
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MARINE CORPS LEAGUE DETACHMENT 1207 MEETING @ 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. @ Building F, Veteran’s Home, 700 E. Naples Ct. in Chula Vista. Join former and retired Marines, Navy, Army, and Air Force to hear a special guest speaker. SUMMER MOVIE IN THE PARK: E.T @ 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. @ Otay Lakes County Park, 2270 Wueste Road in Chula Vista. Parking is available onsite, $3 per vehicle. Come early, bring a picnic and blanket, and enjoy a night out under the stars.
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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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MUSIC IN THE PARK @ 4 – 7 p.m. @ Heritage Park, 1381 E. Palmoar St. in Chula Vista. Enjoy an evening of free, family fun. Listen to the down-home bluegrass rhythms of Rachel Aldous and the Road Home, and enjoy family activities. For more info, visit chulavistaca. gov/MusicinThePark.
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PET ASSISTED THERAPY @ 1:15 – 2:15 p.m. @ Bonita-Sunnyside Library, 4375 Bonita Road in Bonita. Guinea pigs, rabbits, dogs and rats from the San Diego Humane Society provide interaction for people who many not be able to experience the joys of having a pet of their own. HARBORFEST @ 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. @ Bayside Park, 999 Bayside Parkway in Chula Vista. The Festival on the Bay features something for everyone! Check out three stages of live entertainment, engaging exhibits, exciting harbor activities, unique automobiles, beautiful art displays, a taco and spirits revolution, craft beer uprising and wine tasting. For more info, visit www. cvharborfest.com.
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ORANGE CRATE DERBY @ On your mark, get set, go! Chula Vista Sunrise Rotary is the sponsor and host of the race. Kids ages 7-14 and their families are encouraged to join. First-time racers must attend open practice on August 19 and one parent meeting. Registration is $25 and the final deadline is August 12 at midnight. Spectators, volunteers and sponsors are welcome! For more information, visit www.orangecratederby.com.
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"PLANNING AHEAD FOR PEACE OF MIND" LUNCH AND LEARN @ 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ St. Paul's Plaza, 1420 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Speakers include Samantha Betten and Edna Jabagat. Please RSVP to mjohnson@stpaulseniors.org.
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JAZZ ON THIRD SUMMER SERIES @ 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at El Primero Hotel, 416 Third Avenue in Chula Vista. Come enjoy the soulful sounds of jazz singer Steph Johnson. For more information about tickets, contact karen@ elprimerohotel.com.
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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.
5: LEGO BATMAN @ Veterans Park, 785 E. Palomar in Chula Vista. Rated PG. 12: A DOG’S PURPOSE @ Norman Park, 270 F Street in Chula Vista. Rated PG. 19: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST @ Otay Park, 1613 Albany Avenue in Chula Vista. Rated PG. 25: JUNGLE BOOK @ Montevalle Park, 840 Duncan Ranch Road in Chula Vista. Rated PG. 26: MOANA @ Heritage Park, 1381 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Rated PG.
SAVE THE DATE SEPTEMBER 09: SUMMER BLOCK PARTY @ 6 p.m. @ Concordia Church, 1695 Discovery Falls Drive in Chula Vista. Bring the family to a free, outdoor movie night with food and games. The movie "Sing" starts at 7:30 p.m. 15-30: BONITAFEST Enjoy the Twilight Trail Parade on Sept. 15, a Performing Arts Festival on Sept. 16, and opening night of the Bonitafest Melodrama on Sept. 27. OCTOBER 07: COMMUNITY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EVENT @ 5 – 8:30 p.m @ 1590 E. H St. in Chula Vista. Learn how to be prepared for an emergency before one happens. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 25
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Lofts on Landis was completed in December 2015 and provides 33 affordable units in the heart of the city near Third Avenue.
Chula Vista residents provide a valuable service to our community by volunteering to serve on City Boards and Commissions. This month we highlight groups that support and promote safe, affordable housing so that we can meet one of our most important community needs.
HOUSING ADVISORY COMMISSION
MOBILEHOME RENT REVIEW COMMISSION
The Housing Advisory Commission was created as a requirement of state law for those cities with a Housing Authority that issues debt to finance affordable housing. In Chula Vista, the Housing Advisory Commission also considers the housing needs of the community and provides housing policy and program direction to the Authority and City Council.
With 31 mobile home parks and over 3,400 mobile homes, the Mobilehome Rent Review Commission serves an important role for mobile home renters in the City of Chula Vista. The seven-member Board includes five voting members and two ex-officio (non-voting) members representing both park owners and residents.
The seven-member Commission includes three voting members with expertise in at least one of the following fields: lending, urban planning, real estate development, and real estate brokerage, two Housing Authority tenants (one must be 62 years or older) and two ex-officio (nonvoting) residents of the City. The members work closely with City staff, community stakeholders and residents through quarterly meetings, reviewing policies, tracking legislation and providing feedback. Since 2013, over 400 units of affordable housing have been added to the City’s stock, mostly new rental units for low-income households making approximately $70,000 or less a year (for a family of four). With over 30 complexes offering restricted rents and a first-time homebuyer program, the City has many opportunities for residents to find quality affordable housing options.
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The Mobilehome Rent Review Commission provides an independent review of disputes over rent increases in mobile home parks within the City of Chula Vista. The Commission provides advice to the City Council and the City Manager on matters relating to mobile home parks, adopts rules and regulations to administer hearings to determine whether a park owner's rent increase is more than the applicable cost of living increase, and acts as the "due process," unbiased decision-maker regarding mobile home park rent disputes.
To learn more about housing, including mobile home living in Chula Vista, visit www.chulavistaca.gov/housing. Persons interested in serving on the various City Boards and Commissions should visit www.chulavistaca.gov/cityclerk.
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The Ultimate Small Business Workshop Everything you need to know in building a successful small business
Presented by:
Cost: $25 / Each or $100 / Full Series* *If full enrollment to the four day series is paid in full prior to the start of the workshop series, enrollee will receive a $20 discount totaling $80 for the four day series. Daycare will be provided at $10 per child per session. Limited space available. Refreshments will be served.
Location: Christian Science Church 41 “I� Street in Chula Vista
Registration: ContactUs@HarmonyFairConnections.com
When: Mondays / 6:30 - 9 p.m.
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