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AUGUST 2018
Celebrating Summer %2d CHULA VISTA STYLE
CITIZEN OF THE MONTH: LISA WALN
CONTENTS/
A U G U S T 2018
EDITOR'S LETTER
04
Summer doesn’t usually feel like
BRAVO
summer without a festival. Parades,
Announcements
food booths, craft vendors, children’s activities, music, rides…Each festival has a unique purpose and culture to it,
06
but every festival includes some fun.
NEWS
This month, Chula Vista is home to two summer festivals: the Lemon Festival
On your Doorstep
and HarborFest. This issue features both, plus an extended calendar of other events, so that you can plan your summer weekends to their fullest. The August issue also includes several Community News pieces about our
16 FEATURE Celebrating Summer: Chula Vista Style
local police force and the work that they are doing in the community. From collecting funds for purchasing shoes and socks for children who need them, to hosting tours of police headquarters, to teaching students about the importance of reporting crime, the
23 SCHOOL NEWS Inaugural Equity Symposium
Chula Vista Police Department is busy helping the community stay safe. This month, celebrate Chula Vista. Support local businesses, volunteer for an organization whose cause you care
24 CALENDAR Out & About
about, take your kids or friends to a festival, and enjoy summer in the city. "‘Cause a little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about." -John Mayer
26 CITIZEN OF THE MONTH Lisa Waln
—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
ARIANNA PINTADO, Contributor / 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 2018. 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. 4 O U840−7722. R H OMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 18 at (619)
› To ROSALBA PONCE for being recognized as this year’s WaterSmart Landscape Contest “Best in District” winner. The annual contest recognizes a residential customer from each participating water agency in San Diego County for best exemplifying a water-efficient landscape. The Otay Water District’s contest committee determined that Rosalba’s landscape demonstrates overall attractiveness, wellthough-out design, efficient irrigation methods and appropriate plant selection and maintenance. The District’s Board of Directors honored her on July 11. Rosalba’s residential landscape is a living example of what conservation education can help create within the District’s service area and the region. She participated in two of the San Diego County Water Authority and its member agencies’ water conservation programs, including the WaterSmart Landscape Makeover Four-Class Series and the Sustainable Landscape Program (SLP). After participating in the Landscape Makeover Program in 2016, she hired a professional landscaper to replace her thirsty front lawn with a Mediterranean floral garden that was both welcoming and water efficient. With water savings in mind, Rosalba also installed a drip system, two rain barrels and a detention area to collect rainwater. Thank you and congratulations, Rosalba!
› To the KIWANIS CLUB OF BONITA FOUNDATION for raising approximately $16,000 at its 37th annual “Tee Off for Kids” charity golf tournament in June. The club raised funds to support a variety of community-based service projects and programs helping homeless teens, survivors of human trafficking, feeding the needy, mentoring the disadvantaged and helping children access a bright and limitless future. The Kiwanis Club would like to thank its loyal sponsors who made this event a success: Walmart on East H Street, Glen Abbey Memorial Park & Mortuary, San Diego Pest Control, Seacoast Commerce Bank, North Island Credit Union, Village Cremation, McGregar & Associates and Republic Services. The club also welcomed both new and returning hole sponsors along with military warrior and firefighter sponsors.
The Bonita Kiwanis Club meets at the Community Room in the lovely Bonita-Sunnyside Library at 4375 Bonita Road in Bonita. Meetings are the first three Thursday mornings at 7 a.m., and the fourth Thursday is in the evening at 6 p.m. First-time visitors join for a free meal! Visit bonitakiwanis.org for more info.
› To the 12 PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN SOUTH COUNTY that were awarded 97 smart TVs by the South County Economic Development Council and Samsung. As part of a five-year commitment with Samsung International, Inc. and South County Economic Development Council (SCEDC), the TVs were delivered to schools in mid-May. CVESD schools that received TVs include Feaster Charter School, John J. Montgomery Elementary, Juarez-Lincoln Elementary, Thurgood Marshall Elementary and Greg Rogers Elementary School. SUHSD schools include Hilltop Middle, Rancho Del Rey Middle and Mar Vista Academy. Four schools in San Ysidro and the South Bay Union School District also received smart TVs. A committee comprised of SCEDC education committee members and Samsung leadership reviewed the applications before selecting the schools to be awarded the televisions, and how many each school receives based on their needs. For more information or to apply for the giveaway, visit www.southcountyedc.com/.
› To the CITY OF CHULA VISTA in recognition of the 20th anniversary of the development of the 20,000-seat amphitheatre located on Main Street in south Chula Vista. To commemorate the anniversary, Chris Bitterlin of Bitterlin Development, the developer of the project, presented the City with a model of the original amphitheatre design on July 17, 2018. The project won an Orchid Award given by the San Diego Architectural Foundation. The project was unanimously approved by the City Council in November 1995. Construction on the $22 million amphitheatre, which is located on
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.
a 72-acre site that once was a dairy farm, began in 1997 and was completed in 1998. The first show was held on July 19, 1998, with the groups Chicago and Hall & Oates. Elton John and the Spice Girls also performed during the inaugural year. To date, approximately six million patrons have walked through the gates; the venue is one of the best attended outdoor amphitheatres in the country.
› To JOY WHATLEY, new City Librarian for the Chula Vista Public Library. With over 20 years of service to the Chula Vista Public Library, Joy has been the Branch Manager of the South and Otay Ranch Branches and the Assistant Branch Manager for the Civic Center Branch. As the new City Librarian, she looks forward to finding new and relevant ways to serve the Chula Vista community. One of the services she will implement is a new Energy Station, in partnership with San Diego Gas and Electric and the Chula Vista Elementary School District. Similar to the Innovation Station, this new service will reach kids in the community to learn about careers and clean energy science. She will also launch a series of programs that focus on civic engagement through community conversations and add virtual reality labs to all three Chula Vista Public Library branches. Joy holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration, a Master of Library and Information Science and an MBA. As an active member of the California Library Association, she has presented at the library state conference for the past three years and has been nominated to serve on the California State Library’s Immigration and Diversity Alliance Taskforce. Joy has attended both the American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and the Public Library Association’s Leadership Institute. She is a certified passport agent
Photos from left to right: Joy Whatley (L) is the new City Librarian for the Chula Vista Public Library and Supervisor Greg Cox (R) is the newly elected President of the National Association of Counties (NaCo).
through the U.S. Department of State and a mental health first aid instructor with the National Council for Behavioral Sciences.
› To SUPERVISOR GREG COX, who was sworn into office as President of the National Association of Counties (NACo) on July 16. NACo represents 3,069 counties across America. As President, he will lead the association in its efforts to shape national policy discussions on critical issues facing counties. “I’m deeply honored and appreciative of the opportunity to take on this new challenge,” said Cox. “No level of government impacts people more directly than county government and it is critical for local government voices to be heard at the national level.” Founded in 1935, NACo brings officials from America’s counties together to advocate on national policy, exchange ideas, pursue solutions and increase
the public’s understanding of county government. Cox has served in numerous leadership roles with both NACo and the California State Association of Counties, where he also served as President. He has served in local government for more than four decades, and his broad experience has led to his appointments to the San Diego Regional Airport Authority and the California Coastal Commission. In his new role, Cox will take ideas that have worked well in San Diego to the national level, including 2-1-1 San Diego, the County’s Live Well San Diego vision and successful efforts to help veterans. “My Presidential initiative will be Connecting the Unconnected,” said Cox. “We want to see every county in America connect residents to the critical services they need so that they can live well and thrive.” For more information on the initiative, visit www.NACo.org/Connecting. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
STA ELEME
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Chula Vista to Participate in National Night Out
OO
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Chula Vista Elementary School District
Each Child is an Individual of Great Worth
It’s not too late to register! Enroll your child for the 2018-19 school year The Chula Vista Elementary School District is committed to providing an engaging, successful, joyful learning experience for your child! We invite you to learn more about our schools by starting with your neighborhood campus, or “home school.” For more information contact the Chula Vista Elementary School District at (619) 425-9600 x1508 www.cvesd.org
6 OU R H OMETOWN • AUG UST 2 0 18
If you have ever wondered what the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) headquarters looks like, or if you would like to meet a police K-9 and other CVPD officers, here’s your opportunity! CVPD will host National Night Out on Tuesday, August 7 from 4 to 8 p.m. Bring the entire family and meet your neighbors and the officers that serve you.
Over 15,000 communities across the United States as well as cities in Canada and military bases worldwide participate in the celebration.
Held at Police Headquarters, located at 315 Fourth Avenue, the free event will include tours of the facility, mobile field force demonstrations, a Jaws of Life demonstration, a Home Depot children’s workshop, a kid’s zone area, crime prevention information, an opportunity to meet S.W.A.T. team members and more.
The National Night Out event was founded in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch with the purpose of creating safer neighborhoods by strengthening the partnership between residents and public safety officials. With residents encouraged to turn on their porch lights, it has developed into a great way to meet neighbors and let criminals know residents are organizing and ready to fight back. Over 15,000 communities across the United States as well as cities in Canada and military bases worldwide participate in the celebration.
On your Doorstep
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OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 7
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Police Department Presents ‘Students Speaking Out’ Program
Students in the Chula Vista public schools will soon be going back to school faced with homework, afterschool activities and, at times, fear and insecurity. This year has been particularly difficult for school students throughout the country. At some point, most students will confront illegal activity at school or in the community. These activities include not only weapons, but also bullying, theft, gang, drugs, alcohol and vandalism. The San Diego Crime Stoppers and local law enforcement
8 OU R H OMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 18
want to help students speak out about these activities using the new Students Speaking Out program. Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) and the Sweetwater Union High School District (SUHSD) have collaborated with Crime Stoppers to spread the word to all middle and high school students in Chula Vista. The anonymous, easyto-report system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Students can be eligible for a monetary reward if something they report results in an
arrest or suspension. The money is collected anonymously so that students may be more inclined to report issues. No one will know the student reported an issue, and no one will know they received reward money unless they tell. Here's how Students Speaking Out works: every student-issued iPad in the SUHSD is equipped with an app for reporting incidents. The app, P3Tips, directs students how to report the incident, which is then shared with Crime Stoppers. Crime
On your Doorstep
Stoppers quickly responds through its dispatch (which is not located in San Diego County) and then contacts local law enforcement. For instance, if a SUHSD student reports bullying at their school, Crime Stoppers would then contact CVPD regarding the issue. The live call center also can call 9-1-1 if the reportable incident requires immediate response from the local law enforcement agency.
This program empowers students to speak out and potentially stop a threat or unwelcome activity on their campus.
CVPD began using the program in February 2018 and was the first
CVPD School Resource Officer Matt Davison is a big proponent
municipal agency in San Diego County to use it. Since then, other local cities have begun using the program. As of June 2018, CVPD has received 29 valid tips from students reporting various incidents.
of the program. He says, "Our Police Department is encouraging everyone to take the proactive approach. This program empowers students to speak out and potentially stop a threat or unwelcome activity on their campus. All of us have the ultimate goal...to make Chula Vista a safe community."
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Bonita Museum & Cultural Center Presents Maestro Jahja Ling Exhibition
September 1-30 the Bonita Museum & Cultural Center (BMCC) will introduce an exhibition showcasing the life and career of Maestro Jahja Ling, San Diego's preeminent orchestra conductor laureate and Bonita resident. From Jakarta, Indonesia to San Diego, California, the exhibition will chart Maestro Ling's brilliant career in the United States and around the world. The exhibition will also include interactive elements that introduce visitors to the world of conducting as well as the elements of a symphony. Jahja Ling was born in Jakarta, Indonesia and began to play the piano at age four. At age 17 he received the John D. Rockefeller 3rd Fund Grant which brought him to the United States. He went on to study piano and conducting at The Juilliard School in New York City. At Juilliard he earned a master's degree and continued on to study orchestral conducting at the Yale School of Music where he received a Doctor of Musical Arts degree. For 13 years, Jahja Ling was the music director and conductor of the San Diego Symphony. He is the first
10 O U R HOMETOWN • AUGUST 2 0 18
and only conductor of Chinese descent to serve as music director of a major U.S. orchestra. The world premiere exhibition includes personal items, musical scores, videos of performances, and photographs from the Maestro's time with Leonard Bernstein at Tanglewood Music Center and with symphonies in Cleveland, Ohio; Saint Petersburg, Florida; and San Francisco, California. During his celebrated
career, he performed for England's Queen Elizabeth II and collaborated with Whitney Houston, Yo-Yo Ma, Lang Lang, Itzhak Perlman, and others. These stories and more will all be told through the exhibition. Visitors to the exhibition will also learn why Jahja Ling fell in love with the peaceful community of Bonita, California, where he currently lives. Events during the exhibition include both a gala and a family day.
The Bonita Museum is a free public museum located in the South Bay at 4355 Bonita Road, 91902. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please contact bonitahistoricalsociety@ gmail.com for more info.
On your Doorstep
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GALA EVENT
FAMILY DAY
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 5:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 11 a.m.
An evening with Maestro Ling and wife Jessie Chang. Enjoy dinner, an interview and musical performance by the Maestro.
Maestro Ling will be in the museum to walk visitors through the exhibition and to tell stories about conducting and playing music.
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
On your Doorstep
Third Annual ‘Life-Size Family Game Night’ Comes to Otay Ranch Town Center’s Farmer's Market
The third annual "Life-Size Family Game Night" returns Tuesday, August 21 during the weekly Farmer's Market at Otay Ranch Town Center. Families can battle it out in a giant game of Connect Four, match wits in Kerplunk, enjoy the sweet competition of Candyland with life-size candies and much more! During this annual event, the Chula Vista Branch Library at Otay Ranch Town Center will host a one-ofa-kind battle afternoon with free, life-size versions of family favorites along with a variety of other games presented by local community partners and mall tenants.
12 OU R HOMETOWN • AUGUST 2 0 18
From 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 21, in addition to the lineup of the market's regular selection of certified farm stands, unique street foods and handcrafted items, shoppers and families can play: • Candyland • Connect Four • Concentration/Giant Memory • Kerplunk! • Giant Tumble Blocks (like Jenga) • Hopscotch and more!
The afternoon will be filled with other free activities in addition to the life-size family games, such as: • Face painting • Balloon animals • Crafts for kids • And more!
"Our partnership with the branch of the Chula Vista Library inside the center has proven to be a wonderful community enhancement," said Steven Sayers, senior general manager at Otay Ranch Town Center. "This annual event is just one of the many programs and activities we are proud to offer to our neighbors and we are constantly looking for new ways to add even more activities for the whole family." ABOUT OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER: With nearly 100 of the country's top specialty stores, Otay Ranch Town Center is one of San Diego's most exciting outdoor shopping and entertainment destinations. It is conveniently located 4 ½ miles east of the I-805 or just off the South Bay Expressway SR-125 in Chula Vista at Eastlake Parkway and Olympic Parkway. Otay Ranch Town Center is open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information about Otay Ranch Town Center, call (619) 656-9100 or visit www. otayranchtowncenter.com.
On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
14 OU R HOMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 18
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On your Doorstep
Voters Approve Measure A New funding to support public safety staffing and services
On June 5, Chula Vista voters passed Measure A, the half-cent sales tax measure to fund public safety staffing and services. The new tax will allow the Chula Vista Fire and Police Departments to provide faster responses to 9-1-1 emergency calls, increase neighborhood police patrols, reduce gang and drugrelated crimes, address homelessness and improve firefighter, paramedic and emergency medical response times. Public safety, which includes police and fire services, is a top priority in the City of Chula Vista, San Diego County’s second largest city. Chula Vista features quality local schools, safe neighborhoods, a growing economy and beautiful surroundings with strong community pride. But, like many other cities in the country, Chula Vista is struggling to properly fund and maintain public safety staffing. The City allocates 67 percent of discretionary revenues to Police and Fire services combined. However, staffing levels for the Police and Fire Departments are below regional, state and national averages. This low level of staffing affects response times and service levels. Following community presentations, a public opinion survey and input from a Public Safety Advisory Committee, the City Council approved placing a half-cent sales tax on the June 2018 ballot to fund public safety staffing and services. For the Chula Vista Police Department, this will allow 43 police department positions to be filled: 29 officers, agents and sergeants and 14 civilian positions such as dispatchers, community service officers and background investigators. For the Chula Vista Fire Department, it will bring 36 fire department positions including a deputy chief, fire captains, firefighter/paramedics, firefighters and a public education specialist. Measure A is estimated to generate $17 million annually for public safety funding. In February, the Chula Vista City Council adopted the Intended Public Safety Expenditure Plan, which outlines the intended use of the funding. A citizen oversight committee will be appointed and independent audits will be conducted. The tax will take effect October 1, 2018 and will bring Chula Vista’s tax rate to 8.75 percent. More information can be found at www.chulavistaca.gov/publicsafety.
Shoes, Socks and School Students
Chula Vista Public Schools, which have a year-round school calendar, began the fall semester on July 23. The start of the school year often brings with it new school clothes and shoes. However, for some less fortunate children, that is not the case. These children are subjected to bullying and teasing because they don’t have appropriate footwear. New shoes and socks help build their confidence and allow them to focus on their studies. The Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) is assisting local students by conducting its eighth annual School Resource Officer Non-Profit Shoes and Socks Give-Away. This event was a tremendous success last year thanks to the generous contributions from the Chula Vista community. CVPD members are requesting monetary donations to provide shoes and socks for 500 boys and girls. School Resource Officers are working closely with school principals, school nurses, and South Bay Community Services counselors to identify boys and girls under 18 years of age who live, go to school or attend counseling services in Chula Vista.
CVPD members are requesting monetary donations to provide shoes and socks for 500 boys and girls.
To help provide footwear to these children, please send your monetary donation to the Chula Vista Police Department, ATTN: Officer Caceres, SRO Unit, 315 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Checks should be made payable to Chula Vista Police Foundation; please include “SRO Shoe and Sock event” on the memo section. The Chula Vista Police Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization and all donations are tax deductible. Identified children will be invited to Payless Shoe Source at 555 Broadway in the Chula Vista Shopping Center on September 22 at 8 a.m. to select their new socks and shoes. For more information, please call (619) 585-5704 or e-mail ncaceres@chulavistapd.org. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 15
Celebrating Summer %2d On your Doorstep
AT HARBORFEST
Summertime is in full swing! Grab your sunscreen, your favorite pair of sunglasses, and prepare to take your weekend adventures to a whole new level because Chula Vista HarborFest is back on August 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy an unforgettable day on the bay with your friends, family or favorite furry friend because this free festival has everything to make your wildest summertime dreams come true!
UNLIMITED TACOS & DRINKS: Need we say more? Whether you’re a taco fanatic, like to pair a hot summer day with a tasty beverage, or simply love some good competition, the Tacos, Spirits & Craft Beer Revolution is back from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to satisfy your every craving. Discover unbeatable flavors and let your voice be heard at the fan favorite taco, spirit and craft beer showdown to see who will win the coveted “Best of the Fest.”
Dig into unlimited tastes of tacos, spirits, and craft beer for just $25. Not looking to mix your hunger with your thirst? Opt for a ‘tacos only’ ticket for $20. Sample incredible sips with the ‘Champagne, Rosé & Wine Tasting’ package, including two tastes and a full pour for $10!
AUG US T 2 0 18 16 OU R HOMETOWN • AUGUST
NEW IN 2018: Become a HarborFest VIP for $25 and enjoy reserved parking access, two taco plates, two drinks and exclusive lounge seating.
On your Doorstep
OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17
back to school
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back to school SHAKE IT TO THE SOUNDS OF HARBORFEST: Watch your worries disappear as you dance your way along the front of three stages playing live music all day long. Discover your Latin roots at our Latin Beats Stage, or boogie on over to the HarborFest Stage. The This Is Chula Stage will offer something for every interest and is a great place to dance the day away with family, friends and neighbors. Dancers, singers and incredible bands are sure to keep you in the mood to move from open to close.
FAMILY FUN IN THE SUN: Release your inner child in the Discovery Zone with towering inflatable jumpy slides and parachute rockets, outdoor laser tag, giant hamster balls (xorbing), rock climbing wall and more! Decorate your own arts and crafts or solve a water-quality mystery in the Splash Science Mobile Lab bus. Endless green activities will enliven Bayside Park to feed your family’s curiosity from dusk ‘til dawn!
PET PARADE AND OASIS: Strap on those leashes and grab your furry friend—the Pet Parade and Pet Oasis are back! Watch these cuddly companions strut their paws throughout the festival grounds competing for prizes while following the lead of the HarborFest mariachi band. Each furry companion receives a goodie bag full of pet items and oodles of attention from all. We only have 50 spots open, so register your four-legged friend for the parade!
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
back to school FREE FITNESS FIX: Who said festivals can’t be active? Swap your average day at the gym for a classic game of beach volleyball or frisbee golf, or relax your mind with a yoga class on the bayfront. Rather be off land for your fitness? Paddle on the bay on a standup paddleboard or channel your inner modern-day pirate soul on a kayak. Or keep it casual and cast a line on the pier! Expert fishermen will be available to demonstrate the proper techniques of reeling, casting and catching fish.
With many more features to enjoy, there is nothing quite like the endless opportunities offered throughout the day at Chula Vista HarborFest. For more information and to purchase tasting tickets, please visit www. cvharborfest.com.
Celebrating Summer %2d AT LEMON FESTIVAL
August in Chula Vista is also known for the annual Lemon Festival along Third Avenue, celebrating Chula Vista’s history as the lemon capital of the world. On Sunday, August 5 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. individuals and families are invited to celebrate the 22nd annual festival in Chula Vista’s original neighborhood. Third Avenue Village will be closed to traffic and open to hundreds of vendor booths and over 45,000 attendees. Overflowing with interactive features and giveaways from community partners, this annual tradition is more refreshing than the fresh-squeezed lemonade offered in abundance. The event will showcase a variety of lemon-infused activities including live bands, sour contests, a kids’ fun zone, a craft beer garden and hundreds of festive booths. Make transit part of the fun! Two kids 12 and under ride free on the MTS trolley and bus with each paying adult. The E St. and H St. Transit Centers along the UC San Diego Blue Line have bus routes that drop you off at the doorstep to all the action.
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Presented by the Third Avenue Village Association, the event is free to all. Wear yellow attire to show your Chula Vista spirit, and have fun!
back to school
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22 O U R HOMETOWN • AUGUS T 2 0 18
SCHOOL Sweetwater District Kicks Off New School Year with First Inaugural Equity Symposium
In its third year of working towards “excellence through equity,” the Sweetwater District hosted its first Inaugural Equity Symposium. The event, held at Olympian High School, was attended by more than 1,500 district teachers, faculty and staff. The theme of this year’s symposium suggests excellence through equity, and the district’s goal was to share ideas and possibilities as well as explore challenges related to the implementation of educational equity in our schools. The symposium looked at student equity through the lens of relationships and the essence of education being based on creating a culture of excellence for all students.
It’s crucial that we empower each student to attain their personal and academic goals while they are with us.”
amongst our students? He suggests, “By eliminating barriers in learning for all students. Be the advocates and barriers when needed for children who have none.” Today more than ever, there is a need and desire for more inclusive schools, greater access and opportunities for students, fairness and improved student outcomes. “The Sweetwater District is committed to promoting excellence for staff, students, schools, communities, the district office, and both systematic and systemic programs,” said Dr. Fulcher, Assistant Superintendent of Equity, Culture and Support Services. “We will continue to make this year the year to make a difference in the lives of our students.”
“Today is about continuing our work around teaching, learning and equity,” said Sweetwater District Superintendent Dr. Karen Janney. “Our classrooms oftentimes are the safe harbor for many of our students in an uncertain world. It’s crucial that we empower each student to attain their personal and academic goals while they are with us.”
There were more than 80 different panelists and presenters who shared their knowledge and experiences during high engaging sessions and workshops throughout the symposium. Dr. Pedro Noguera, a distinguished Professor of Education and Information Studies at UCLA, keynoted the symposium. Noguera’s research focuses on the ways in which schools are influenced by social and economic conditions, as well as by demographic trends in local, regional and global texts. In his keynote address, Noguera said he was heartened by his visit to Sweetwater, and he noted schools need to get in the culture of affirming students. He said, “When that is done, kids rise above their circumstances. When they are left to figure things out on their own, that is when schools produce inequalities.” During his keynote, Noguera shared that equity and equality are not the same. So how do we accommodate the differences OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 23
OUT & ABOUT
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. 04 COCO @ Otay Park, 1613 Albany Avenue in Chula Vista. Rated PG. 11 PETER RABBIT @ Loma Verde Pool, 1420 Loma Lane in Chula Vista. Rated PG. 25 BLACK PANTHER @ Heritage Park, 1381 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Rated PG-13. 31 LEGO NINJAGO @ Montevalle Park, 840 Duncan Road Ranch in Chula Vista. Rated PG.
VILLAGE SUMMER NIGHTS August 7 & 21 @ 5 – 8 p.m. @ Third Avenue Chula Vista. Come together for free, family fun involving live music and performances, vintage car exhibitions, and local artists showcasing their work throughout Third Avenue. For more information please visit ILoveChulaVista.com.
FILM FORUM Friends of the Chula Vista Library invite you to a free film presentation and discussion @ 6-8 p.m. @ Chula Vista Civic Center Auditorium, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. For more info, search @FilmForumSanDiego on Facebook. 08 “ISLE OF DOGS” Rated PG-13. 22 “LOVE AND DEATH” Rated PG.
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August 03 FREE OUTDOOR MOVIE @ dusk @ Concordia Church and School, 1695 Discovery Falls Drive in Chula Vista. Watch “The Secret Life of Pets,” rated PG.
05 LEMON FESTIVAL @ 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Third Avenue from E to G Street in Chula Vista. The event will showcase a variety of lemoninfused activities including live bands, sour contests, a kids’ fun zone, a craft beer garden and hundreds of festive booths. For more info, visit www.thirdavenuevillage.com.
07 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT @ 4 – 8 p.m. @ Chula Vista Police Headquarters, 315 Fourth Avenue in Chula Vista. Bring the entire family to meet your neighbors and the officers that serve you. This free event includes tours of the facility, demonstrations, a Home Depot children’s workshop and kids’ zone area, crime prevention information and an opportunity to meet S.W.A.T. team members, a police K-9, and more.
09 SWEETWATER AUTHORITY COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE @ 4 – 7 p.m. @ Richard A. Reynolds Groundwater Desalination Facility, 3066 N. Second Avenue in Chula Vista. Customers are invited to drop in and learn about how Sweetwater Authority is working for your water. Topics include an overview of water system and resources, water quality information, your water bill and rates, water efficiency information and resources, facility tours, equipment display and more.
MARINE CORPS LEAGUE SOUTHBAY DETACHMENT 1207 MEETING @ 7 – 8 p.m. @ Chula Vista Veterans Home, Building F, 700 E. Naples Court. Meet former and retired Marines, Navy, Army and Air Force veterans plus hear from a guest speaker. Please call Commandant Jim Thomas at (619) 227-9535 with questions.
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OUT & ABOUT
"A beautiful life is a collection of unforg
12 MUSIC IN THE PARK @ 4 – 7 p.m. @ Heritage Park, 1381 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Enjoy an evening of free, family fun with Americana music group Rachel Aldous and the Road Home. Kids’ activities provided. For more info, visit chulavistaca.gov/ MusicinThePark.
17 PRESENTATION FOR SENIOR CITIZENS @ 10 a.m. @ Norman Park Senior Center at 270 F Street in Chula Vista. The Senior Advocate Network, with two local specialists, will speak on no-cost placement services into area senior communities and in-home care for seniors. The program will be in Room 9. All seniors and their families are invited.
SAN DIEGO INTL' MARIACHI SUMMIT GALA CONCERT @ 7:30 p.m. @ San Diego Civic Theatre, 110 Third Avenue in San Diego. Presented by Southwest Airlines and benefitting the Mariachi Scholarship Foundation. Tickets are $20-$70. Visit sandiegotheatres.org or call (619) 570-1100 for more info.
18 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, a Taco, Spirits and Craft Beer Revolution showdown, engaging exhibits, green initiatives, harbor activities, exotic automobiles, vibrant art displays and breathtaking ocean views. For more info, visit cvharborfest.com.
18-19 ORANGE CRATE DERBY On your mark, get set, go! Chula Vista Sunrise Rotary is the sponsor and host of the race. Kids ages 7-12 and their families are encouraged to join. First-time racers must attend open practice and one parent meeting. Registration is $30, and the final deadline is August 10 at midnight. Spectators, volunteers and sponsors are welcome! For more information, visit www. orangecratederby.com.
ettable moments."
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SAVE THE DATE
LIFE-SIZE FAMILY GAME NIGHT @ 5 – 7 p.m. @ Otay Ranch Town Center’s Farmer’s Market at Eastlake Parkway and Olympic Parkway. Families can battle it out in a giant game of Connect Four, match wits in Kerplunk, enjoy the sweet competition of Candyland with life-size candies and much more! Face painting, balloon animals and crafts for kids will also be available. For more info, visit www. otayranchtowncenter.com.
09/01 “LEAP” (PG) MOVIE NIGHT IN THE PARKS @ 5:30 p.m. @ Memorial Bowl, 373 Park Way in Chula Vista. Movie begins at dusk. For more info, visit chulavistaca.gov/Rec.
25 FREE COMPOST EVENT @ 8 a.m. – noon @ Otay Landfill, 1700 Maxwell Road in Chula Vista. For Chula Vista residents only. Bring your shovels, buckets, and containers.
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09/21-22 BONITAFEST kicks off with the Twilight Trail Parade on Friday, Sept. 21 @ 6 p.m. @ Sunnyside Saddle Club Arena, Rohr Park. Participants are encouraged to dress festively and bring glow sticks and flashlights. The Performing Arts Festival is on Saturday, Sept. 22 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m @ Bonita Vista High School, 751 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. Come see the South Bay’s best show choirs and stage bands, sample delicious food, take in arts and crafts and enjoy a day full of fun!
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Councilmeber Mike Diaz's
CITIZEN OF THE MONTH
LISA WALN
Councilmember Mike Diaz is proud to name Lisa Waln as District 4 Citizen of the Month. Lisa always has a smile and a warm welcome for everyone she comes into contact with. She has a way of making people feel right at home even though her home is a place she rarely gets to visit. Lisa has been with Hometown Buffet for over 15 years and constantly travels between Southern California, Arizona and Colorado. Her career with Hometown Buffet started when she was volunteering for the PTA at her daughter’s school. One day Lisa asked for support at one of her daughter’s school events. The manager of the Hometown Buffet restaurants liked her tenacity and willingness to help out the community. He offered her a position as the marketing representative for the chain of restaurants.
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Bringing families together is what matters
Lisa finds it difficult to sit back and watch when she can get involved. She serves on several advisory boards including the San Diego Police Department Captain’s Advisory Board and San Diego Army Advisory Board. She organizes the MCRD Christmas party each year and stays involved with the Chamber of Commerce. She also helped out with the National City Salute to the Navy luncheon that honors our U.S. military and the Chula Vista Police Department’s National Night Out. One of Lisa’s personal goals is to serve on the Chula Vista Police Department Foundation advisory board.
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She thrives on being involved in the Chula Vista community and has leveraged her position as Community Representative to get involved with many worthwhile programs. She is a busy advocate for schools and the South Bay Headstart program. Thanks to Lisa’s personal efforts, Hometown Buffet has voluntarily “adopted” Harborside Elementary School, offering restaurant and
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kitchen tours to the students and helping to support their PTA.
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As a mother of two daughters, she knows the importance of balancing family and work life. Lisa enjoys Padres baseball games and even takes in spring training when she can. Most of all her heart belongs to college football. According to Lisa, a serious Notre Dame fan, “Every day should be Saturday.” Bringing families together is what matters most to Lisa. We are fortunate to have Lisa Waln in our city and honor her for all her hard work on behalf of our community.
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