BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS:
Salt Creek Golf Club + Wallick & Volk RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT:
Arnulfo Manriquez
FIELD xD R E A M S
september 2014
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID GARDENA, CA PERMIT #40
CONTENTS
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 14
FROM THE EDITOR I remember as a young girl knowing three particular truths from my parents: 1) My parents loved me. 2) If I ever went to jail, I’d stay there because my parents wouldn’t bail me out. 3) I was going to college and would help pay for it. These truths were unarguable. Knowing that I’d be stuck in jail if I ever broke the law kept me from breaking it. Knowing that I was expected to go to college meant that dropping out of high school never once crossed my mind. Instead, I focused on getting into the best, in-state university that I could. The four years I spent at the University of Michigan were well worth the many hours of studying and working. Today college tuition is at an unprecedented high—too high, in many opinions. This is one of several reasons that many students pursue higher education at a community college. In fact, according to the Community College Research Center at Columbia University, “As of the 2011-12 school year, 45% of all undergraduate students were enrolled in public two-year colleges, or approximately 8.3 million students. Approximately 3.3 million students were enrolled full-time, and approximately 4.8 million students were enrolled part-time.” Chula Vista is home to Southwestern College, a higher-learning institution that provides credit and non-credit classes, associate’s degrees and certificate programs, career training and more. Thanks to Proposition R, though, it’s getting bigger and better. Our cover story and “On Topic” article are full of details and photos to reconnect you with Southwestern College. The September issue also draws attention to several non-profits that work every day to improve lives in Chula Vista. Check out Community News and the Resident Spotlight to learn about Big Brothers Big Sisters, the San Diego Youth Symphony’s Community Opus Project and MAAC. May we all seek knowledge and continued growth regardless of our ages, and may we all do something, no matter how small, to improve our community.
18 FIELD OF DREAMS 04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
18 FEATURE Field of Dreams
22 ON TOPIC SWC Jaguars Football
24 EDUCATION SUHSD Refinances Prop O Bond
26 CALENDAR Out & About
28 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS Salt Creek Golf Club Wallick & Volk
30 RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Arnulfo Manriquez
AMBER WEBER, editor OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 3
BRAVO To ROSALYN MILLER, HER DAUGHTER TAYLOR AND MISS SOUTH BAY DIRECTOR ANGELICA WALLACE, who surprised and rewarded the South Bay Ambassadors for their good will and commitment in serving their communities. Rosalyn, director of Origami Owl, learned about the community volunteerism that the young ladies engaged in. She felt that her mission to empower women and Angelica's desires to serve the community made a perfect partnership. To show her appreciation and support, Rosalyn and her daughter Taylor gave the ambassadors gifts from
Great Things Happening in our Community
Penguin Designing Photography | www.penguindesigning.com
their inventory at a special ceremony on June 29. “We were able to give the Ambassadors speciallymade lockets with charms such as the purple ribbon for being part of Relay for Life, helping to raise awareness for cancer, and No Bully charms that represent the girls’ efforts in promoting no bullying in schools. These lockets represent their outstanding efforts to “Being a Force for Good,” which is what Origami Owl is all about,”
4 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
stated Rosalyn. In addition, some ambassadors received financial scholarships and others received a gift certificate to Origami Owl. Angelica states, “It was hard for me to keep this as a surprise.” These two businesses will continue their partnership in support of the 2014 Ambassadors.
PUBLISHED BY:
To GALIA XIMENA SALAZAR for qualifying to compete at the USA Track and Field Junior Olympics National Championship in Houston, Texas, July 23-30. Despite the 105-degree heat, Galia broke her personal long jump record by 14 cm and placed 14th out of 49 long jump competitors. She is 8 years old and attends Arroyo Vista Charter School. She is part of the Olympian Falcons Youth Track & Field Club and is coached by Mike Hulin and Max Carreon. Coach Mike says, “We're proud of Galia not just for her amazing athletic performances, but also for her spirit of competition and camaraderie that are essential to the Junior Olympics.” Congratulations, Galia!
PUBLISHER Michael Monaco
To THELMALYN MONTENEGRO (Bonita Vista High School), CHARISA GATES (Hilltop High School), ARAZOO SHWANY (Otay Ranch High School), ARMANDO PANIAGO (Montgomery High School), ALINA CORONA (Eastlake High School) and GIOVANNA GALLARDO (Olympian High School) for each earning a $200 college scholarship from Pack & Bianes Vision Care. The incoming freshmen all plan to major in an area of health care. Congratulations and study hard!
DESIGNER Melissa Monroy
EDITOR Amber Weber
CONTRIBUTOR Jen Amos
Photo courtesy of Edgardo Salazar
CONTRIBUTOR Keren De Leon
Send advertising inquiries to Michael Monoco at sales@ourhometownmag.com All editorial contributions should to be emailed to: editor@ourhometownmag.com Our Hometown Magazine can be found online at www.OurHometownMag.com
CONTRIBUTE TO BRAVO! Send a note to EDITOR@OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM and we will do our best to put the good news in an upcoming issue. Please submit prior to the 10th of the month.
Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. Standout Media, 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. StandOut Media has the right to refuse advertising. Contact Standout Media Group, Inc at (619) 840 7722
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 5
NEWS
On your Doorstep
More than Toys
by Mike Minjares
Local Artists Create Collectible Art Pieces
At the 2014 San Diego International Comic-Con,
What distinguishes “designer toys” from
the line to purchase the newest, exclusive collectibles wraps around the booths of big-brand toy makers like Mattel, Hasbro, LEGO and Funko. But popular toy producers are not the only ones creating limited items that fans seek every year at the biggest celebration of pop culture in North America. In a small section of Comic-Con’s vast exhibit hall reside several rows of booths specializing in collectible art pieces known as “designer toys.” Here, the crowds gather around toy outfits like Rotofugi, Super7, Cardboard Spaceship, Gargamel, Toy Tokyo, Lulubell, BAIT, Munky King and more.
“traditional toys?
The short answer includes a focus on the artist behind the toy and, oftentimes, the limited number of items released. In the designer toy world, the artist and his or her unique style draw fans to a particular booth or to a certain toy. Adding to the appeal for many fans is the search for oneof-a-kind or custom pieces that are more works of art than a child’s plaything.
Although designer toy artists come from all over the world, San Diego is well represented in this emerging industry.
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On your Doorstep
Local resident John “Spanky” Stokes operates a popular blog, SpankyStokes.com, that has been voted the best blog two years running by the Designer Toy Awards. For Stokes, who designed the popular “Stroll” figure, the blog is a labor of love. “The blog started in 2007 as a personal site,” said Stokes, who estimates he has a few thousand toys in his collection. “In the blog, I’m trying to expose artists that deserve the exposure because there is some serious hidden talent.”
One of those talented artists is Chula Vista resident Chase Odom.
Connecting with fans on his blog and other talented artists who create collectibles fuels Stokes’ passion for designer toys. “The best thing about this scene is the artists who make the figures or design them are very approachable,” Stokes said.
Earlier this year Odom, a local tattoo artist, released his first designer toy called “Chubbeez” that was limited to 50 pieces. The matte black figure was an immediate hit. “It’s a really sleek, unique and professionally made figure, and I really dig the way it’s been put together,” said Stokes, a senior graphic designer. “Chase has done a great job making his dream a reality, and it’s cool he is a local San Diego guy.”
"Kind of like as a kid, when you have that once in a lifetime opportunity to meet a famous sports hero—that happens all the time in the designer toy world. It's awesome!"
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On your Doorstep
Otay Water District Helps Customers Conserve Water and Avoid Fines Board moves to a level 2 supply alert
The Otay Water District’s Board of Directors declared a Level 2 Supply Alert at its meeting on August 6. When the drought status advanced from a Level 1 Supply Watch to a Level 2 Supply Alert, conservation measures became mandatory. As a result, the Otay Water District is increasing its efforts to help customers eliminate water waste and reduce overall water use with water-efficiency incentives and rebates. Last month, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) approved an emergency regulation primarily targeted to reduce outdoor water waste in an effort to increase water conservation in urban areas across the state. The regulation approved by SWRCB also gives local water districts the ability to impose fines on customers who waste water. Fortunately for Otay Water District customers, many of the drought response measures outlined by SWRCD have become common practice within the District’s service territory, which has helped reduce total water use within the District by 30% from 2007 to 2013. Rather than impose fines, the District is helping its customers fully understand the drought and become aware of how the SWRCB’s actions will affect them. A few water conservation resources are rebates for water-efficient equipment, incentives for water-wise landscaping such as replacing grass lawns with synthetic turf, and free water-smart checkups to identify opportunities to eliminate water waste at homes and businesses. 8 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
To assist in customers’ efforts to reduce water consumption and forgo the possibility of fines for water waste, the District is offering the following rebates:
Helpful water conservation tips from watersmartsd.org:
$165 $95 $75 $140
Repairing a leaky faucet can save up to 150 gallons of water per leak.
$25
$80
High-Efficiency Clothes Washers High-Efficiency Toilets per Rain Barrel; 4 barrel maximum Weather-Based Irrigation Controllers /under 1 irrigated acre Weather-Based Irrigation Controllers; /per station over 1 irrigated acre Moisture Sensors (added to an irrigation controller)
$3.50 Rotating Sprinkler Nozzles;
/per square-foot for the front yard
Under Level 2 Supply Alert, the following actions are now prohibited: Watering outdoor landscapes that causes excess runoff into the gutter and storm drain system Washing down driveways and sidewalks (except for health and safety circumstances) Using a hose without a shut-off nozzle to wash a motor vehicle Using potable water for a decorative fountain or water feature, unless the water is re-circulated Watering more than three days per week and longer than 15 minutes per station. Irrigation systems using smart controllers, water-efficient rotating nozzles or low-volume drip components are exempt. Otay Water District is a public agency providing water and sewer service to more than 213,000 residents within 125.5 square miles of southeastern San Diego County, including eastern Chula Vista. For more information about the Otay Water District, including incentives and water efficiency rebates, visit www.OtayWater.gov.
Washing full loads of laundry can save up to 100 gallons of water per week. Fixing leaks in your irrigation system can save up to 210 gallons of water per day. Installing a drip irrigation system instead of a popup system can save up to 2,500 gallons per month. Install aerators in bathroom faucets to save 1.2 gallons per day. Turn off water when brushing teeth or shaving to save 10 gallons per person/day. Rinse fruit and vegetables over a bucket and reuse the water for outside plants.
On your Doorstep
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 9
On your Doorstep
Spotlight on
In 2004, Pat Grimm found himself living alone, facing life changes, unsure about the
accelerating innovation through imagination
Students in the Chula Vista Elementary School District experience a rigorous 21st century learning environment that is rooted in effective teaching practices and high-quality instruction. We nurture every child’s imagination, intellect, and sense of inquiry. Working with stakeholders, we harness the potential of a collective intelligence rich with the imagination and creativity necessary for students to become difference makers. CVESD is frequently honored for student academic achievement, high performing schools, and quality instruction.
enrolling now for 2014-15
www.cvesd.org • (619) 425-9600 ext. 1570 each child is an individual of great Worth 10 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
direction of his life.
With newfound time on his hands, Pat immersed himself in the game of golf, but he remained unfulfilled. He remembered how much he had enjoyed coaching his nowgrown daughter’s basketball team when she was in grade school, and started looking for a similar opportunity to give back. Pat attended a Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego meeting for potential volunteers. A few months later, in February of 2005, Big Brothers Big Sisters facilitated a meeting between Pat and 7-year-old Joseph. Joseph’s mother, Felicia, was raising Joseph on her own, and she worried about the impact that the absence of a father could have on her young son. In search of a positive male role model for Joseph, she had turned to Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego for help. After the meeting, Felicia asked her son how he felt about his new Big Brother. In response, Joseph began to dance and sing a song about how much he liked Pat. The transformative impact of a safe, new friendship was already beginning to brighten young Joseph’s view of life. Determined to exemplify reliability and punctuality for Joseph, Pat embraced his new role as Big Brother. During their meetings, Pat and Joseph played basketball and miniature golf, listened to music, watched movies, discussed their future goals and developed an unbreakable friendship.
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“ I came to realize that I
On your Doorstep
could either withdraw into a pity party…[or] try to make the rest of my life something
worthwhile.
”
Thanks to Joseph, Pat is now well-versed in contemporary culture, from popular music to the latest video games. “The most amazing thing about these [nine] years has been watching Joseph grow up,” Pat says. Today, Joseph is a confident, outgoing sixteen-year-old who recently received his driver’s permit. Joseph and his mother are grateful for Pat’s impact on their lives. “To me, [Pat] is a true hero and I will never be able to express how much his involvement means to us,” says Felicia. Perhaps best of all, Pat and Joseph have
inspired
each
other to make the most of their lives, no matter their ages. “Joseph has taught me that
A HELPING HEART Hands. You use them every day. They can get you in trouble. They can hurt, they can hug, they can hold. But best of all, they can help. Over the next few weeks we will be looking at stories that will help illustrate what it means to have a helping heart and how that power can transform lives—including yours. Join us this Sunday as we talk about matters of the heart in practical ways.
DRESS CASUAL. EXPECT LOTS OF ENERGY. AND COME WITH AN OPEN HEART.
CHECK US OUT SUNDAYS AT 9:30AM
EASTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS AHORA OFRECEMOS SERVICIOS DE ADORACIÓN EN ESPAÑOL. DOMINGOS A L AS 2:30 PM EN NUESTRA LOCALIDAD OESTE DE CHUL A VISTA (630 CORTE MARIA AVE.)
age, in a way, is a state of mind. While we can’t stop the clock, we can ‘live young,’” Pat says.
For more than fifty years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego has been pairing children of all ages (“Littles”) with screened, volunteer mentors (“Bigs”) to monitor and support one-to-one mentoring matches that build safe, enduring relationships. These friendships help children achieve measurable positive outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence and healthier relationships. Nearly 50 children in Chula Vista are waiting to be paired with an adult mentor. If you are interested in volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit www. SDBigs.org or call (858) 536-4900.
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT LIGHTHOUSE?
Call us at 619.427.9700 or go online: lighthouseeastlake.com OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 11
On your Doorstep
ACT Chula Vista Invites Citizens to Report Non-Emergency Issues
Alert, Connect, Track (ACT) Chula Vista allows residents to submit requests for non-emergency service via their smartphones.
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health, pairing traditional medicine with lab analTwo locations: 2400 Fenton St. ysis to identify nutritional and hormonal deficits Ste. 210, Chula Vista through a customized treatment plan. These services are not covered by insurance. 5030 Camino de la Siesta Work history Community Mental Health clinics, Ste. 308, San Diego schools, emergency psychiatric units, and 619-794-2344 University Hospitals.
12 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
As you’re driving through your neighborhood, you spot an ugly pothole. Wouldn’t you love to be able to take a picture of it and report it as soon as you see it? Now, in the City of Chula Vista, you can do just that! The new phone app is free and works with iPhone and Android devices; search for ACT Chula Vista on Google Play or iTunes. Issues can also be reported using a widget on the City’s website (www.chulavistaca.gov) or Facebook page. A few examples of issues that can be reported using ACT Chula Vista include graffiti, potholes, dead animals, malfunctioning traffic signals and abandoned vehicles. Requests reported through ACT Chula Vista can provide the location, description and photographic information regarding the problem. The service is available in different languages and requests may be submitted anonymously. ACT Chula Vista allows citizens not only to report non-emergency issues, but to monitor them as well. Once the issue is documented with ACT Chula Vista, the reporting citizen will receive a notification and tracking number. The request is then automatically forwarded to the appropriate department for review. Once the issue is addressed, the status will be updated and posted on ACT Chula Vista. City staff will monitor ACT Chula Vista during normal business hours. The system eliminates the same request being submitted multiple times and allows staff to work more efficiently by filtering requests regarding the type, status or department assigned. ACT Chula Vista also has a Q&A button that addresses common questions about Chula Vista. ACT Chula Vista is strictly for non-emergency services; any emergency should still be reported to 911.
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On your Doorstep
Southwestern College Awarded $2.475 Million Federal Grant
A five-year effort to increase completion rates for Latinos and language learners at Southwestern College has been given a financial boost.
The U.S. Department of Education has awarded the college $2,475,000 over five years for its Puertas al Futuro (Doorways to the Future) grant application. Funding will be used to create a firstyear experience where cohorts of freshmen will work with a College Success Team and peer mentors to strengthen their study skills and build a learning community. The funding will also be used to shorten the time students spend on basic skills. Programming begins Oct. 1, 2014. “Puertas al Futuro helps us implement best practices that focus on counseling support, peer mentoring, learning communities and new instructional strategies,” said Dr. Melinda Nish, superintendent and president of Southwestern College. “Our goal is to streamline the pathways for students to complete their educational goals.”
As a Hispanic-serving institution, Southwestern College serves more than 10,000 Latino students each fall. Funding will allow the college to utilize a new approach to teach mathematics and provide specialized tutoring in English/writing, English as a second language, math and reading. Teams will help students navigate and access resources during college. Funding also includes an outreach component to give Spanish-speaking parents the tools needed to support their college students. OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 13
On your Doorstep
Õ
Pencils & Pixels Exhibit Merges Video Game Art and Pencil Drawings
The worlds of video-game art and pencil drawings merge in the exhibition Pencils & Pixels on display at Southwestern Community College’s art gallery from Sept. 4 to Oct. 9. The gallery’s exhibition space will be divided into two sections. The show’s digital portion will showcase Sony Computer Entertainment with an interactive look into the genesis of a video game. This behind-the-scenes look will show viewers how ideas are developed from concept art to the completed game. In sharp contrast to the show’s digital art,
Pencils & Pixels also features handdrawn storyboards and drawings by skilled artists excelling in visual narratives for film and comics. The intent of Pencils & Pixels is to spotlight the common ground where state-of-the-art, motioncapture imagery of video-game technology overlaps with the back-
to-basics drawing skills of visual storytellers armed with pencils, pens, charcoal and paper. Both are fueled by explosive ideas waiting to jumpstart the imagination. Southwestern College Art Gallery is located at 900 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. Gallery hours are Tuesday,Thursday from 10:30 a.m-2 p.m. and Wednesday,Thursday from 5:30-8 p.m.
Art Exhibit: Sept. 4 - Oct. 9 @ Southwestern College Art Gallery
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On your Doorstep
San Diego Restaurant Week What better time to spoil yourself than during the 10th anniversary of San Diego Restaurant Week?
Sept. 21 -26, 2014 From Sunday, September 21 through Friday, September 26, foodies can satisfy their palates by visiting over 200 participating restaurants featuring delectable appetizers, scrumptious entrees and delightful desserts. San Diegans will have the opportunity to try some of San Diego’s finest and freshest ingredients at popular restaurants during this twice-yearly event. Choosing will be no easy task because every participating restaurant will offer a threecourse, prix-fixe dinner menu for $25, $35 or $45 per person and/or a twocourse, prix-fixe lunch menu for $10, $15 or $20 per person depending on the dining destination selected. This county-wide foodie’s dream makes trying every hot spot, budding bistro and quaint cafe from North County to the South Bay easy since no passes or tickets are required. Simply select the participating restaurant of your choice, make reservations or walk in, and prepare yourself for a mouthful of bliss. Take off that cooking apron, put those pots and pans away, and join over 140,000 diners in this foodie affair celebrating San Diego’s impressive culinary scene.
Complete Compassionate Companion Animal Care • Full Service Medical/Surgical Facility • Focused on Your Pet’s Health • Serving the community for 13 years The Best of South County Gold Star Award
Voted Best Veterinarian in the South Bay for the Last 5 Years!
2 0 1 3
Dr. Lynette Henderson and rescue kitten
Telegraph Canyon Animal Medical Center 577 Telegraph Canyon Road, Chula Vista (619) 421-1323 • www.TelegraphCanyonVet.com
Visit San Diego Restaurant Week at SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com for more information, a complete list of restaurants or to make reservations in advance. While you’re there, vtake a minute to watch the recently launched promotional video starring Casey Biggs. Not at your computer? Download the San Diego Restaurant Week Android or iPhone app.
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 15
On your Doorstep
SDYS’ Community Opus Project Turns Up the Volume in Chula Vista New district ensembles are open to all students in Chula Vista
The San Diego Youth Symphony (SDYS) is bringing more opportunities to young people in Chula Vista through its Community Opus Project. SDYS is now able to shift from solely teaching introductory instrumental instruction to also leading after-school District Orchestras and District Bands for all
Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) students wishing to advance beyond in-school music. These ensembles are free and open to CVESD elementary school students who are beginning through advanced musicians. They will meet with SDYS’ professional faculty twice a week at
Opus Honor Orchestra registration is now open for middle and high school musicians, and all CVESD bands and strings students.
Vista Square Elementary School and Kellogg Elementary School to hone their skills and prepare for community performances. SDYS’ Community Opus Project is also launching a free Opus Honor Orchestra in Chula Vista. This orchestra is open to middle and high school musicians. It meets after school on Fridays at Chula Vista High School. Registration is open to all CVESD students for the bands and strings programs, and students may still enroll. If you are interested in joining any of the ensembles, contact Emmanuel Soto at esoto@sdys.org or (619) 233-3232 x. 114. Community members have the opportunity to see Community Opus Project students perform at the free Fall Camp concert on September 19 at Castle Park High School at 6:30 p.m. An additional performance by Opus students will be held at the Chula Vista Civic Center Library on September 25 at 6 p.m. For details, call (619) 233-3232 or visit www.sdys.org/upcoming-events. Like many other public school districts, CVESD had eliminated in-school music education more than 15 years ago. Today seven elementary schools have full-time music instructors responsible for providing standards-based music programs for all students. This is the result of SDYS’ efforts to bring music education back to the school day and ultimately “make music education accessible and affordable for all” in San Diego County. For more information on SDYS' Community Opus Project in Chula Vista, visit www.sdys.org/community-opus-project.
16 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
On your Doorstep
OnStage Playhouse Presents "God of Carnage" A comedy of manners…without the manners
“The other day in the neighborhood park, little Benjamin hit his playmate Henry with a stick, breaking two teeth.” It is important that the parents of the boys set the right example and sit down to discuss the matter calmly and reasonably, right? After all, nothing will be gained by behaving like children… Human nature, “red in tooth and claw.” Yasmina Reza, the writer who drew maximum laughs from Minimalist art in Art, uses her corrosive wit to strip away the thin veneer of civilization in this Tony Award-winning comedy. God of Carnage will run from August 22 to September 13 in Chula Vista. God of Carnage is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc. It contains adult content and language and is not appropriate for children under 13. General admission tickets are $17-$23. Group rates are available. Reserve your seat at (619) 422-RSVP (7787) or www. onstageplayhouse.org. Curtain times are Thursdays through Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. OnStage Playhouse is located on historic Third Avenue in downtown Chula Vista, within walking distance of many restaurants for pre- and post-show dining. Parking is easily available on nearby streets or in several City lots.
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///////////////////////////////////////////
FIELD xD R E A M S
A COLLEGE
on the
MOVE
“This is an exciting time for the college as we continue to expand access and opportunities for our students and our community.”
Electrical engineer Enrique Lopez found everything he needed when he was a student at Southwestern College: polished professors, talented tutors, a smorgasbord of student groups and support systems, a library with unlimited learning, and plenty of places for recreation and relaxation. “Southwestern provided me not just the educational resources, but also the extracurricular resources and the monetary and financial help that allowed me to succeed,” said Lopez, one of five siblings who attended Southwestern.
That was back in the 1990s. Today, Southwestern is taking it up a few notches. A new, four-story building that includes a 150-seat lecture hall, a student fitness center and spacious locker rooms for the college’s athletic teams opened on August 18. The additional classrooms will enable the college to hold 78 course sections in the building, which has secured LEED silver certification and is on its way to reach a coveted LEED gold label for its use of environmental materials and construction.
18 OUR HOMETOWN · AUGUST 2014
Included in the $35-million project is a new artificial turf field at DeVore Stadium, new concession stands and a new press box. The artificial turf will allow Southwestern to save 1 million gallons of water annually. The stadium renovation and fieldhouse/classroom building are among the $124 million in projects completed this summer or in the pipeline, all funded by Proposition R, a $389-million, general-obligation bond that voters approved in November 2008. Meanwhile, solar arrays installed in five parking
lots at the Chula Vista campus—the largest single project of its kind in San Diego Gas & Electric’s service area— will produce three megawatts of electricity. The solar project is expected to save the college more than $600,000 annually in energy costs. With those projects completed, Southwestern is now looking at Phase 2 of Proposition R. Of great community interest are the plans for the vacant lot on the corner of East H Street and Otay Lakes Road.
Balfour Beatty Construction
Photo Courtesy of
The artificial turf will save 1 million gallons of water annually.
The solar arrays will produce 3 megawatts of electricity and are expected to save the college more than $600k annually in
The community will be active participants in the two new planned projects: a Wellness Center and a Performing Arts & Cultural Center.
students and our community,” said Terry Davis, dean of Southwestern’s School of Health, Exercise Science, Athletics and Applied Technology.
The 74,000-square-foot Wellness Center—complete with two competition swimming pools, a therapy pool, gym and locker rooms—will be open not just to students, but also to local residents. Importantly, the project will enable the college to demolish the current gym and pool and build a new multi-story math, science and engineering complex in its place.
The Wellness Center will provide the community with broader access to Southwestern and demonstrate that the college is a community-based organization serving a wide spectrum of educational, health and social opportunities.
“This is an exciting time for the college as we continue to expand access and opportunities for our
“I congratulate the Governing Board for fully researching the feasibility and financial viability of the new Wellness Center,” said Dr. Melinda Nish, superintendent/president of
Southwestern College. “The center will offer lifelong opportunities for our students, faculty, staff and community members to maintain health and wellbeing.”
energy costs.
Construction commences next spring, the same time building begins on a new, two-story structure with science labs and a medical clinic at Southwestern’s Higher Education Center in National City.
Center will
The 74,000 sq ft Wellness be open to students and local residents.
Improved finances, meanwhile, allowed the college that serves more than 18,000 students to add a total of 75 more class sections and 15 additional full-time faculty members this fall.
75 class sections & 15 full-time faculty members will be added this fall.
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 19
A HISTORY Southwestern College, the only public institution of higher education in southern San Diego County, has long been a leader in the community. More than 500,00t0 students have attended Southwestern since it opened its doors a half century ago. It offers more than 320 degree and certificate programs along with a host of non-credit courses for personal and professional development. Southwestern, which has been fully accredited since its opening in 1964, consistently ranks among the highest in
of
LEADERSHIP
the nation in granting associate’s degrees to minority students, according to Diverse Issues in Higher Education magazine. “Southwestern College is not only a great two-year institution, but it is a great college that serves a very underrepresented community,” said Enrique Lopez, who went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from UCLA and now works for a San Diego-based engineering firm. The path followed by Lopez has been taken by thousands of others. Three of four Southwestern College students are members
20 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
of a minority, and more than half of its students are Hispanic. The vast majority of students beginning coursework at Southwestern College—63%—intend to transfer to a fouryear university. In the five years from 2009 through 2013, nearly 3,000 Southwestern students transferred to a California State University campus, and 660 transferred to a University of California school. In addition, more than 2,000 students transferred to private colleges and universities in California from 2008-12, and 1,033
students transferred to private colleges out of state, according to the California Community College Chancellor’s Office. Students are aided by an Associate Degree for Transfer program that guarantees admission to a California State University campus for Southwestern College students who earn their degree in one of 18 different majors. A similar program, the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum, fulfills all lowerdivision, general education requirements at most California State University
//////////////////////////////////////////////////// Photos courtesy of Southwestern College
2009-13
transfers
3k
2k
to CSU campus
Said Lopez, “Southwestern College springboarded me toward my goal, which was to go to a very good four-year university and earn an engineering degree. I don’t think that would have been possible had it not been for Southwestern College.”
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
660
or University of California campuses and has provided an effective pathway for students determined to transfer to a CSU or UC school. At $46 per unit, Southwestern College is an economical way to begin a four-year university path.
to UC campus
Three of four Southwestern College students are members of a minority, and more than half of its students are Hispanic.
2008-12
transfers
to in-state private colleges and universities
1k
to out-of-state private colleges
PURCHASING? REFINANCING? Wallick & Volk “The Mortgage Folks” Mortgage Lending Since 1932
“
Southwestern College is not only a great two-year institution, but it is a great college that serves a very underrepresented community.
”
fast closing • friendly experienced team stress-free transactions • no high pressure
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OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 21
ON TOPIC SWC Jaguar Football Local high school graduates keep SWC Jaguar top team in conference
Not all great athletes leave Chula Vista for college. Due to
Proudly Sponsors
SA LU T E TO A
SERVICE MEMBER BoBBi Trevizo is a Petty Officer who serves as an Information System Technician in the U.S. Navy. She has served two years of her contract and has four more to go. Trevizo enlisted at the age of 17 in order to serve our country and become part of the “1%.” She chose active duty to enjoy her military experience to the fullest and learn the qualities of responsibility and true sacrifice. She also joined to strive for independence, learning the natural hardship of “leaving the nest.” Her chain of command and her family have both been supportive. Trevizo is currently stationed at the Naval Computer and Telecommunication Station in San Diego and is working on her bachelor’s degree. She hopes to eventually earn a master’s degree and become a civilian IT.
Contributed by Tisha Mora, US Army (PV2) National Guardsman
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22 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
location and cost, many exceptional football players from the Sweetwater Union High School District will be on the field as the Southwestern College Jaguars start their 2014 season. They’ll be welcomed by a new, state-of-theart stadium and athletic facility named after the first and longtime college president Chester “Chet” Devore. Leading the team to another successful season is Coach Ed Carberry. He has coached the Jaguars since 2007 with an impres-
sive record. The JAGS, as locals call them, were 7-4 in 2008 and Mountain Conference Co-Champions. They played in the Tremblay Financial Services Santa Barbara Bowl at the end of the season. And in 2012 with a 10-1 season, the JAGS won the Mountain Conference Championship and the American Bowl, played at Olympian High School. This past season the JAGS were 9-2 and collected the Patriotic Bowl Championship. Coach Carberry is the second winningest head football coach in the history of Southwestern College behind 14-year veteran Bob Mears, who coached from 1976-1989. Over the past seven seasons, the JAGS have helped 118 student athletes transfer to the university level. Here’s a roster of our South Bay High School graduates on the 2014 SWC Jaguars. With general admission prices at $8, SWC students $5, seniors and military $7, and children under 8 years free, there’s no better deal for fast-paced, hard-hitting college football in the South Bay. And what goes better with football? Good food. The stadium’s concession stand is loaded with tasty options like nachos, hotdogs, gourmet popcorn, assorted chips, candy and ice cream. Upon completion of construction, individual pizzas, gourmet pretzels, churros, coffee, hot chocolate and cappuccino will also be available. Parking is free and easy to get to from both H Street and Otay Lakes Road. The stadium originally opened in 1971. Throwing
out the first ball at the first home game was then president of the board of trustees Mrs. Marilyn Lassman. A dedication speech was delivered by Sweetwater District Superintendent Joseph Rindone, and the invocation was given by Rev. Lauren Egdahl of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Chula Vista.
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Defense. Back row from left to right: Trevor Kemp (Bonita Vista HS), Michael King (Bonita Vista HS), Haydon Long (Bonita Vista HS), Aaron A. Leon (Castle Park HS), Divanuel Flores (Olympian HS), Manny Salcedo (Castle Park HS), Raymond Clapper (Chula Vista HS), David Gonzalez (Chula Vista HS), Mike Molina (Chula Vista HS). Front row from left to right: Austin Smith (Eastlake HS), Ty Stevens (Eastlake HS), Blake Wilson (Eastlake HS), Connal Brown (Olympian HS), Santana Leomiti (Olympian HS), Freddy Llamas (Chula Vista HS) and Lucas Martinez (Sweetwater HS).
Photos courtesy of andre monaco
Offense. Back row from left to right: Michael Kuheleloa (Bonita Vista HS), Ceaser Salcido (Chula Vista HS), Brandon Gill (Chula Vista HS), Gabriel Casillas (Eastlake HS), Montel Campbell (Hilltop HS), Drake Madarang (Hilltop HS), Junior Ramirez (Olympian HS), Luis F. Perez (Otay Ranch HS). Front row left to right: Cody R. Springsguth (Otay Ranch HS), Joshua Westfall (Sweetwater HS), Arturo Coronado (Sweetwater HS), Travis Gardner (Eastlake HS), Lance Cornish (Southwest HS), Sergio Bailey (Olympian HS), David Eguiza (Eastlake HS) and Darren Hall (Eastlake HS).
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 23
EDUCATION Sweetwater District Refinances Bonds
The Sweetwater Union High School District has been able to refinance a portion of the general obligation bonds and save taxpayers more than half a million dollars.
In July, the Sweetwater District sold $82,270,000 in general obligation refunding bonds to lower the general obligation bond debt service costs to District taxpayers. Proceeds from the bonds are being used to refinance prior district bonds. District taxpayers will save $9.139 million over the next 14 years. “This refinancing is a good deal for Sweetwater District taxpayers,” said School Board President John McCann. “I am extremely pleased to know that we have led the effort to save the district millions of dollars by refinancing our general obligation bonds. This step puts the district in a much better financial position to focus on our mission of student excellence.” The Sweetwater Union High School District is California’s largest secondary district with nearly 41,000 students in grades 7 through 12.
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24 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
District taxpayers will save $9.139 million over the next 14 years.
FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT® FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
®
GET BACK TO CLASS! Two Weeks FREE-Try Us EASTLAKE YMCA www.southbay.ymca.org
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OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 25
CALENDAR
Out & About
SEPT EM B ER 4
"PENCILS & PIXELS” ART EXHIBIT @ Southwestern College Art Gallery, 900 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. Open Tuesday- Thursday from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and Wednesday-Thursday from 5:30-8 p.m. until Oct. 9.
13
SOUTH BAY PRIDE
ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL @ 12-10 p.m. @ Bayfront Park. The free, family-friendly event will include live bands, DJs, arts & crafts, great food, water sports, beverage gardens, rides and more! For more info, visit southbaypride.org.
"GOD OF CARNAGE" @ Onstage Playhouse, 291 3rd Ave. in Chula Vista. Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. until Sept. THE FILIPINO 13. Tickets $17-$23. Call (619) AMERICAN EXPO @ 1-5 p.m. 422-RSVP (7787) or visit www. @ The Venue at Eastlake, 871 onstageplayhouse.com. Showroom Pl #104 in Chula Vista. Free event with live performances, vendors, food & fun. For more info, visit www. thefilipinoamerican.com. SWC FOOTBALL: JAGUARS VS. GROSSMONT @ 6 p.m. @ Southwestern College, DeVore Stadium, 900 Otay Lakes Rd. in Chula Vista. Bring the family for COMMUNITY OPUS the first home game of the PROJECT FALL CAMP season. Children under 8 are CONCERT @ 6:30 p.m. @ Castle free. Tickets $5-$8. Free parkPark High School. Community ing. Season home schedule at members are invited to hear swccd.edu. Go Jags! CVESD students perform at this free concert. For details, visit sdys.org/upcoming-events or call (619) 233-3232. CHULA VISTA CHAMBER MIXER @ 5:30-7:30 PARENTS NIGHT OUT @ 6:15p.m. Mix, mingle, and meet 8:15 p.m. @ Concordia Church, future business partners. $10 1695 Discovery Falls Drive in for members, $20 non-members. Chula Vista. Military families Hosted by Miguel’s Cocina, 970 invited to attend this free Eastlake Parkway #108, Chula event. Pizza dinner included. Vista. For more info or to RSVP, Reserve your spot and register call (619) 420-6603 or email online at concordiachurch.com. info@chulavistachamber.org.
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6
19
11
26 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
19
MOVIE NIGHT @ 7 p.m.
@ Village Walk, 878 Eastlake Parkway in Chula Vista. Free, outdoor movie near the koi pond. Playing Toy Story 3. First 200 guests get free popcorn. Visit shopvillagewalk.com for more info.
20
COMMUNITY SERIES AT PETCO PARK Padres vs. Giants @ 5:40 p.m. Enjoy some baseball and get a Padres bobblehead. Save up to $10 per ticket with promo code CV2014 at www. Padres.com/ChulaVista. Email PadresChulaVista@cox.net for more info.
21-26 SD RESTAURANT WEEK Experience cuisine that delights your palate and defines the art of dining in San Diego. 180+ restaurants participate in the 10th annual tradition. For more info, visit sandiegorestaurantweek.com.
26
FREE MOVIE NIGHT @ Montevalle Rec Center, 840 Duncan Ranch Rd., Chula Vista. Pack dinner, snacks & a blanket and enjoy Hotel Transylvania. Halloween activities will kick off at 7 p.m. Movie will start at dusk.
09 /14 26
A NIGHT IN WHITE EVENT @ 6 p.m. @ Savoie, 2015 Birch Road, Ste. 702, Chula Vista. White attire evening of dining, cocktails and fashion to benefit Casa del Jardin, a home for victims of sex trafficking. Tickets $65. Purchase online at www. sendmefoundation.com.
27
SOLAR PROGRAM LUNCHEON @ 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. @ Bonita Sunnyside Library, 4375 Bonita Rd in Bonita. Learn how to go solar for $0 down. Free and open to the public. Lunch provided. Call 1(800) SULLIVAN to RSVP.
EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Filippi's Pizza Grotto, Eastlake ; 11:30 a.m.1 p.m. eastlakebusiness.org FARMER’S MARKET Tuesdays @ Otay Ranch Town Center; 4-8 p.m. Thursdays @ Third Avenue Village Association (Third Ave. & Center St.); 3-7 p.m. KIDS READY TO READ Interactive storytime program Thursdays @ Otay Ranch Branch Library; 11:15 a.m.; chulavistalibrary.com
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
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OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 27
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
SALT CREEK GOLF CLUB
WALLICK & VOLK
Previously known as the Ault Golf Course, Salt Creek Golf Club has grown under new ownership and management. The same can be said for General Manager Armando Najera, who grew up playing golf from the age of 4 and has been employed at Salt Creek since 2007. That may not seem strange to some, but Armando is only 25.
Jose A. Hernandez, NMLS 337383, CA-DOC 337383, and the Hernandez Team have become the face of Wallick & Volk in the Bonita-Chula Vista area as a premier mortgage lender. Wallick & Volk has been family-owned and operated since 1932. Its straight-forward, honest approach to lending is why Jose joined the company in 2010. Jose’s dedication and professionalism earned him the position of branch manager in 2013.
He is a natural born leader. Armando was an MVP player for the Eastlake High School football team. He also helped coach Eastlake High’s football team during both the 2009 and 2012 CIF Championship while working at Salt Creek Golf Club.
“I believe the people working here [make us] stand out as a great company to do business with. We strive for the highest level of customer service and understand every client’s situation is unique. We don’t take the cookie cutter approach to mortgage lending,” says Jose.
Armando’s first job at Salt Creek was driving golf carts. Then he worked in the pro shop. He soon proved so valuable that he was taken under the wing of then General Manager Ron Gorski and groomed for management. Armando believes that his success was based on coming to work motivated, doing the best job possible and working harder than everyone else. It paid off. When Salt Creek was looking for a new GM, co-owners Fred Grand and Bill McWethy knew the right man for the job: Armando Najera. Fred Grand has even given this young talent the nickname “Mr. Golf” because of his depth of knowledge.
Much of the success of Wallick & Volk’s Bonita location can be credited to Jose, but he could not have done it without his team. Annette Hernandez, his sister, has the responsibility to help make Wallick & Volk a household name. Both Annette and Jose are involved in the community as members in the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce and the Eastlake Business Association. Karla V. Guerrero has worked with Jose for almost 10 years, and brings a high level of customer service skills and a “can do” attitude every day to work. Jose and his team base their success on two principles: make realistic promises and over-deliver every time.
Salt Creek Golf Course is a beautiful, award-winning course designed to challenge and inspire every player at any level. Newly remodeled, the Scottish-influenced facility includes a 180-degree deck around the pro shop and new bathrooms. The course is open to the public and offers great deals on memberships. Visit www.saltcreekgc.com or call (619) 656-2373.
28 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
Wallick & Volk is a full-service lender specializing in conventional, VA and FHA loans. It serves first-time home buyers and sellers of owner-occupied and second homes. It has a growing portfolio of investment properties. Jose and his team believe they have the skills to get you through your next mortgage transaction smoothly. Visit www.wvmbbonita.com or call (619) 470-4980. Wallick & Volk is an Equal Housing Lender. Corp. NMLS 2973 | Licensed by the Dept. of Business | Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. License #4130785.
Our Local Business
On your Doorstep
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 29
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Arnulfo Manriquez Arnulfo Manriquez is a resident of Otay Ranch and one of many role models in our community. To start, he took on a great deal of responsibility at a young age. His family owned a flower shop in the South Bay, and every member of his family was expected to help. As the youngest of five, his four older sisters did not cut him any slack. Born in Mexicali, BC, Mexico, he moved to the South Bay in 1981 at the age of 11. His late father, Arnulfo Manriquez, Sr., is his greatest role model. Even now, his father’s advice rings loud and clear every day. It is to his father’s credit that he attributes his drive to excel. Arnulfo is the President and CEO of MAAC, the Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee on Anti-Poverty of San Diego County, Inc. His organization focuses on assisting individuals and families to become self-sufficient through education, health and wellness, housing and career pathways programs. MAAC is headquartered in west Chula Vista, where the MAAC Community Charter High School is located, and operates in over 30 other
30 OUR HOMETOWN · AUGUST 2014
locations throughout the county, the largest program being Head Start/Child Development. Arnulfo’s number one priority for MAAC is to ensure that its services reach everyone who needs them. He is the single father of Ana, 13, Olivia, 11, and Diego, 7, and his canine babies Bella and Carmela, beautiful two-year old Labradors. They all keep him busy between swim practices and softball games. This summer his daughter Olivia played shortstop for the Bonita Valley 10U All Stars and competed in over seven weekend tournaments throughout the county. Ana and Diego are both swimmers for the South Bay Aquatics Team, where Ana has competed at the Junior Olympics’ level. Being a single parent is a challenge; however, Arnulfo doesn’t let that stop him from making the most of his family life. Their free time involves hiking, remodeling the backyard, taking the Labs out and family dinners with aunts and cousins.
Arnulfo is a graduate of Hilltop High School and holds a bachelor’s degree from UCSD and a master’s degree from USD. He is a founding member of the Chula Vista Charitable Foundation and has served as a mentor for the Southwestern College Puente Program. He was recently elected to serve on the statewide board of directors for Housing California. It is not rare to find him catching a Padres game with friends and family or hiking up Mt. Miguel. Between homework nights, dog beach mornings, board meetings and breakfast with his mom, Arnulfo represents Chula Vista at its best.
EASTLAKE’S
31 OUR HOMETOWN · SEPTEMBER 2014
HIDDEN
GEM
You know how to make money. We know how to help you keep it. With wealth comes great responsibility. Every dollar should be cared for, nurtured and preserved. In other words, your wealth must be managed. As a Financial Advisor, I have the experience and resources to assist in managing the many facets of your financial Gerald Ramirez Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor Vice President Financial Advisor
world—from investments and risk management to estate planning. By working together, we can create a detailed wealth plan to help protect and grow your wealth.
4350 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite 1000 San Diego, CA 92122 858-643-5012 gerald.ramirez@ms.com www.morganstanley.com/fa/ gerald.ramirez
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters. Š 2014 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. GP11-01363P-N09/11 7308122 MAR009 09/12