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SEPTEMBER 2018
FOREVER YOUNG Life as a senior citizen in Chula Vista
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: PACIFIC COAST CHRISTIAN PREP CITIZEN OF THE MONTH: STAN AND BRENDA CANARIS
CONTENTS/
S E P T E M B E R 2 018
EDITOR'S LETTER A few years ago, I received a call on my cell phone at a time when only friends and family (or so I thought) knew my number. The caller, who had a thick foreign accent, said he was from the IRS and that there was a problem with my taxes. To be honest, a tingling of panic initially shot through me, but it was so hard to understand what he was saying that I asked to transfer to one of his colleagues. So, another person got on the phone and proceeded to tell me that I owed the IRS additional money and wanted me to confirm my address. Thankfully, this sounded fishy to me so I said I would need to call my attorney. The man rudely said that if I did not agree to pay more that he would send the police to my house in five minutes. Then he hung up on me! I was furious. By this time, I knew full well that I had been an intended victim of a scam. I called the police department, and the officer dialed the number that had called me. The number went to the answering machine of someone who sounded like a “sweet older lady.” The police officer asked me my age, saying that usually these types of calls happen to senior citizens, and assured me that the IRS never calls. I was grateful not to have provided any personal information to the caller, but my thoughts quickly went to my own grandmother, and then to many other people I love whom I know would have been rattled enough to provide personal information over the phone. What about them?! “The growth in the number and proportion of older adults is unprecedented in the history of the United States. Two factors—longer life spans and aging baby boomers—will combine to double the population of Americans aged 65 years or older during the next 25 years to about 72 million. By 2030, older adults will account for roughly 20% of the U.S. population.” These statements are from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s The State of Aging and Health in America, published in 2013. While more seniors will make up the U.S. population in the near future, we have many seniors now. Seniors today need to know how to keep their finances safe, how to keep their bodies fit and how to age in a way that is comfortable for them. This month we provide resources and information on numerous topics that benefit senior citizens, whether they feel 39 or 105. I hope you learn something new! “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” -Mark Twain
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
17 SCHOOL NEWS 18 FEATURE Forever Young
31 CALENDAR Out & About
32 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT Pacific Coast Christian Prep
34 CITIZEN OF THE MONTH Stan and Brenda Canaris
—AMBER WEBER, editor COVER PHOTO BY CRISTIAN NEWMAN
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BRAVO
. . . great things happening in our community
PUBLISHED BY
› To the GEORGE G. GLENNER ALZHEIMER’S FAMILY CENTERS, INC.® for opening its innovative Town Square® Adult Day Center. On August 13, guests celebrated this momentous occasion in the organization’s history. A heartfelt thank you to all who supported the center along the way!
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
Town Square®, a Reminiscence Therapy Center, was designed to bring peace and joy to loved ones with dementia by bringing them back in time to a place where their memories are the strongest. Set in the 1950s and 1960s, the experience benefits those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia by surrounding them with tangible prompts from their past. Reminiscence Therapy has been shown to improve mood, reduce agitation and improve sleep quality. The environment and programming have been expertly created in order to provide a safe, joyful atmosphere that will help to facilitate reminiscence. Many options to visit Town Square are available. Please call (619) 543-4700 or visit www.glenner.org for more information.
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 Town Square® Reminiscence Therapy Center at George G. Glenner Alzheimer's Family Centers, Inc..® advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. 4 O U840−7722. R H OMETOWN • SEPT EM B E R 2 0 18 at (619)
› To the LIVING COAST DISCOVERY CENTER, a nonprofit zoo and aquarium on San Diego Bay in Chula Vista, for raising $110,000 in net proceeds at its ninth annual Farm to Bay event on Aug. 4, making it the Living Coast’s most successful fundraiser. The funds, which were generated through a combination of sponsorships, ticket sales, donations, live and silent auctions, will support coastal wildlife conservation, education and sustainability programs at the Living Coast throughout the year. Approximately 400 guests attended the event, which showcased the culinary talents of three featured chefs and sampling from more than 30 of San Diego’s favorite restaurants, craft breweries, wineries and specialty purveyors. The event was made possible by the generous support of its sponsors, including this year’s presenting sponsors, Marine Group Boat Works and Seven Mile Casino, as well as the Port of San Diego, UTC Aerospace Systems– Aerostructures, City of Chula Vista Clean Team, Cox Communications, Mission Federal Credit Union, SDG&E, Baldwin & Sons, Loews Coronado Bay Resort, Republic Services, Sprouts Farmers Market–Chula Vista and Eastlake, Wells Fargo, Jim Biddle, CityLink Foundation, General Dynamics NASSCO, Hoffman Hanono Insurance Services, The Lewis Group, MA Engineers, Miller Hull, Southwestern College, and The San Diego Foundation. Media partners for the event included San Diego Magazine, Edible San Diego, San Diego Beverage Times, KSDY Channel 50 and Sunny 98.1 FM. For more information about the Living Coast Discovery Center, visit www.thelivingcoast.org or call (619) 409-5900.
› To the WINNERS OF THE 38TH ANNUAL ORANGE CRATE DERBY, sponsored by the Chula Vista Sunrise Rotary. It was held August 18-19; next year’s race will be August 17-18, 2019. A GROUP: 7-8-YEAR-OLD WINNERS 1st place: Christian Amezcua, Happy Camper Express 2nd place: Preston Prewett, Goodnite Now 3rd place: Robby Hitchcock, The Beast
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.
B GROUP: 9-10-YEAR-OLD WINNERS 1st place: Mitzy Gonzalez, Mitzy Pinkfire 2nd place: Brianna Amezcua, Happy Camper Express 3rd place: David Kellel, Farmers Flyer C GROUP: 11-12-YEAR-OLD WINNERS 1st place: Jared Ashman, Spirit 2nd place: Adrian Romero, Happy Camper Express 3rd place: Jaren Klindt, Sidewinder D GROUP: 13-14-YEAR-OLD WINNERS 1st place: Liya Kellel, Farmers Flyer 2nd place: Ysabella Marquez, Termitenator 3rd place: Jose Orozco, Big Kahuna
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NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
City Seeks Nominations for Ribbons & Shovels Awards
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Celebrating projects that Beautify, Enhance, Sustain and Transform Chula Vista
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18 0 2 , 3 1 R E B O T C SATURDAY, O MENTARY SCHOOL, 8 AM-12 AM EL E VISTA SQUARE
Registration begins soon! For more information contact: Language and Instruction Department: (619) 425-9600 ext. 1520
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Nominations for the City of Chula Vista’s Ribbons & Shovels Awards are now being accepted. The Ribbons & Shovels awards celebrate the best in art, architecture, landscape, historic preservation, environment and more. Chula Vista will accept nominations to recognize individuals, organizations or businesses that have improved the appearance and appeal of the community by investing in their neighborhoods and businesses. Nominations are being accepted for projects that were completed between 2013 and 2017. The awards highlight outstanding new projects as well as restoration projects. Nominations are being accepted for the following categories: • New residential construction
The Ribbons & Shovels awards celebrate the best in art, architecture, landscape, historic preservation, environment and more.
• New non-residential construction • Commercial or residential renovation and restoration • Public or private landscaping • Improvements in the public realm • Art visible to the public • Historic preservation • Affordable housing • Green building design or improvements
All entries are due September 7, 2018. Anyone may nominate a project, and selfnominations are accepted. Entries will be selected by a jury that includes board and commission members and representatives of civic and community groups. The Ribbons & Shovels Awards dinner will be held October 25. For more information and the online nomination form, visit www. chulavistaca.gov/ribbonsandshovels.
On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
PIANO
KEYBOARD & ACCORDION
LESSONS
CAREER PIANO & ACCORDION TEACHER
PRIVATE IN-HOME MUSIC LESSONS BEGINNER, INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED • CLASSICAL • POP • JAZZ • MUSICIANSHIP • SIGHT READING • HARMONY • THEORY
619-395-0454 GORDON KOHL
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Music
On your Doorstep
2018 South Bay Pumpkin Smash Come one, come all to the Game of Throws
On Saturday morning, November 3, an enthusiastic crowd of onlookers will cheer on more than two dozen teams of students from grades 3 through 12 as they lay siege to Eastlake Middle School in Chula Vista for the third annual South Bay Pumpkin Smash Game of Throws competition and faire. The students’ aim? To win honor and prizes by hurtling leftover Halloween pumpkins with both distance and accuracy using homemade Medieval-style siege devices under the watchful eyes of the event’s King and Queen. Presented by the LabRats Science Education Program and co-sponsored by the Sweetwater Union High School District (SUHSD), this free public festival of flying fruit provides boys and girls from all over the South Bay with the opportunity to learn not only history, but also science, engineering and art by participating in a fun, hands-on project that challenges their imaginations and develops their skills in design, construction and costumes. “Competitions like this are the best way I know to put technical knowledge not only into kids’ heads, but into their hands as well,” says educator and LabRats Executive Director, Dr. Shawn Carlson. “But to keep kids interested in this stuff long term, they need to know that their work is recognized and appreciated.”
“That’s why we’ve created a public spectacle where science meets messy fun,” adds local entrepreneur and publisher, Michael Monaco, the event’s creator and principal organizer. “It’s a free hometown Renaissance faire for the entire community. We’ll have costume contests, food, and more. It’s going to be a lot of fun.” “This is STEAM [science, technology, engineering, art and math] at its best. All the participants get to develop their imagination by designing medieval mechanical devices, costumes and period artwork. The possibilities for creativity are endless!” says Jesus Ulloa-Higuera, STEAM Programs Coordinator for SUHSD. All proceeds from this event will help fund STEAM programs in the South Bay. The opening ceremony begins at 9 a.m. when the Chula Vista Fire Department will drop a 100-pound pumpkin from the top of a 100-foot fire engine ladder to the cheers of the assembled throng. Look for elected officials and high-ranking members from local school districts to be amongst the attendees. For information about the event, please contact Michael Monaco at (619) 840-7722. For information about SUHSD’s participation, contact Leo Ulloa-Higuera at (619) 600-3340. For information about the LabRats Science Education Program, contact Shawn Carlson at (619) 400-7661.
CERT Academy Offered to Chula Vista Residents The Chula Vista Fire Department is offering residents the opportunity to be a member of the Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT). Members of CERT are educated in disaster preparedness and emergency response skills such as fire suppression and safety, light search and rescue, and disaster medical operations that professional responders can rely on during disaster situations. Classes are offered in English and Spanish. The free classes will be held on Tuesdays, September 11, 18, and 25, from 6 to 9 p.m., on Saturday, September 29, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Tuesday, October 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. Participants must attend all five days to graduate. Registration is required and spaces are limited. Please register by email at chulavistacert@ chulavistaca.gov and indicate if you desire English or Spanish instruction.
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On your Doorstep
Award-Winning Novo Brazil Brewing Selects Otay Ranch Town Center for New 12,000 ft² Brewpub, Corporate Event and Production Location
When searching for a second location to expand its brewing operations with a full-service dining option, Novo Brazil decided that Otay Ranch Town Center, with its unique mix of retail and entertainment in the heart of Chula Vista's bustling Eastlake neighborhood, was the perfect spot. The center has announced that Novo Brazil will take the space previously occupied by Anthropologie. The $2.5 million project will include a restaurant
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with approximately 300 seats, event space, an indoor-outdoor beer garden facing the mall's main street, a 10-Barrel Brewing System and full bar offering Novo's own proprietary beers, guest taps, wine and cocktails. The Otay Ranch Town Center location will complement the brewery's existing tasting room and brew facilities also located in Chula Vista, San Diego County's second largest city. "We wanted to be able to host our neighbors here in Eastlake with an
authentic Brazilian dining experience, great beers, live entertainment and a bold and welcoming architecture reminiscent of Brazil's most famous landmarks, all while being family and dog friendly ensuring that everyone gets to enjoy the experience right in their own backyard," said Eduardo Pentagna, Novo Brazil CEO. "My family and I live here in Eastlake and I knew there was a huge opportunity to build a space at Otay Ranch Town Center, filling a gap in the market."
On your Doorstep
"As a local, authentic business, Novo Brazil will be a welcome addition to our growing dining options," said Steven Sayers, senior general manager of Otay Ranch Town Center. "This is just the beginning of many transformative changes we have planned that will create an all-encompassing community destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. We are excited to continue the evolution of our property."
United States by the National Breweries Association, Novo Brazil is reaching capacity at its current location, according to Pentagna. The new Otay Ranch Town Center brewing facilities will allow the company to produce specialty beers such as sour and barrel-aged variations, along with testing new concepts. A small on-site retail section will offer Brazilian products such as coffee for purchase.
Opened in 2015 and recently named the eighth-fastest growing brewery in the
The brewery positions itself as a maker of a creative variety of quality beers with a
slightly tropical twist, evoking the spirit of Brazil. Some of the company's offerings include the Ipanema Double IPA, Samba (a Hazy IPA), Rio (Pale Ale) and Chula Pils (a Pilsner-style beer). Novo Brazil at Otay Ranch Town Center anticipates opening in early 2019, and both the brewery and mall will be posting progress updates on their social media channels. For more information about Otay Ranch Town Center, call (619) 656-9100 or visit www. otayranchtowncenter.com. For more information about Novo Brazil, visit novobrazilbrewing.com.
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On your Doorstep
San Diego Restaurant Week
A lot can happen in a week. You can fall in love, explore, share, laugh, be wild and treat yourself—so what better place to let these stories unfold than in the beautifully diverse county of San Diego? Create memories and share them with the ones you love during San Diego Restaurant Week. From Sunday, September 23 through Sunday, September 30, restaurants throughout San Diego County will dish out incredible twocourse lunches and three-course dinners at exclusive prix-fixe prices. With so many options, it’s the best time of the year to take a culinary tour of the diverse and thriving food culture of restaurants that span from the South Bay to East County and to the beaches of Oceanside and Fallbrook to the North. No matter where in San Diego you are, plenty of delicious food and warm memories await during San Diego Restaurant Week. Now is your time to dine with over 150,000 fellow diners as the city raises its forks in one of the U.S.’s premier culinary destinations. Embark on an edible journey and create memories with loved ones that will keep you smiling and satisfied for a lifetime. For these eight days only, participating restaurants will offer dinner menus for $20, $30, $40 or $50 per person and/or lunch menus for $10, $15 or $20 per person. Don’t just eat and drink like any other week—indulge until your heart’s content with everything San Diego has to offer. Tickets are not necessary for this delectable week of discounted dining, but reservations are recommended. View participating restaurants, browse special menus and create new memories at SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com or call (619) 233-5008. San Diego Restaurant Week is brought to you by the non-profit San Diego Chapter of the California Restaurant Association.
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Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee Seeks to Fill Four Vacancies Southwestern College is seeking applications for four vacancies on the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee— three community openings and a student opening. Members of the committee are responsible for informing the public and the college’s Governing Board about the expenditure of bond proceeds for Propositions R and Z, reviewing expenditures to ensure they are in alignment with voter-approved projects and providing an annual report summarizing the committee’s proceedings and activities. The current Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee meets quarterly, with occasional interim meetings to discuss certain topics or make site visits. The vacancies available are: • Advisory or foundation representative (2-year term) • Senior citizen group representative (2-year term) • Business representative (2-year term) • Student (1-year term) Interested individuals are asked to fill out the committee’s application, available at www.swccd.edu/ CBOCapplication. All applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 28. Completed applications can be mailed to the attention of Janell Ruiz in the office of Vice President for Business & Financial Affairs, Southwestern Community College District, 900 Otay Lakes Road, Chula Vista, CA 91910; faxed to (619) 482-6592; or emailed to jruiz@swccd.edu. All applications will be reviewed by college staff for a recommendation to the college superintendent/ president. Final approval will be made by the Southwestern College Governing Board at the November 13 meeting. ABOUT SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE Established in 1961, Southwestern College is the only public institution of higher education in southern San Diego County, serving approximately 400,000 residents in Bonita, Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, National City, Nestor, Otay Mesa, Palm City, San Ysidro, Sunnyside and Coronado. The College District offers more than 300 associate degree and certificate options. More information is available at swccd.edu.
On your Doorstep
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OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Approves Open Data Policy
Leveraging innovative technology and data tools to better serve and engage residents, the City of Chula Vista recently adopted an Open Data Policy to provide public access to the data and information that the City develops and uses. The City recognizes that by making data publicly available and easily accessible, the City will empower the community, promote civic engagement, improve service delivery and increase opportunities for economic development. AMONG THE DATA THE CITY MAKES AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC ARE:
• Asset management data: information about the conditions of roadways, parks, fields, drainage system, and other infrastructure • Crime data via Automated Regional Justice Information System (ARJIS) • Job descriptions and salaries • Zoning and permit fee information The development and implementation of the Open Data Policy was launched as part of the City’s Smart City Action Plan. Chula Vista will continue to expand access to data, giving residents a better understanding of how the City
works by providing access to important data that help guide the decision-making process. Next steps are to inventory the various datasets the City produces and manages, identify what datasets are most important to residents, and determine how to make data more readily accessible to the public. The Open Data Policy was one outcome of the City’s participation in the What Works Cities initiative sponsored by Bloomberg Philanthropies. Launched in 2015, What Works Cities is a national initiative helping cities across the United States enhance their use of data and evidence to improve services, inform local decision making and engage residents. As one of 100 cities selected by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Chula Vista received technical assistance from world-class experts to help build the capacity to address local issues using data and evidence. Through the planning and execution of the Smart City Strategic Action Plan, which includes the open data initiative, the City will be able to provide enhanced customer service, share important public access data, provide a more connected workforce, reduce energy usage/costs, improve public safety service delivery, and ultimately improve the quality of lives for the citizens of and visitors to Chula Vista.
Chula Vista History Tidbits BY SOUTH BAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY The Insectary opened in 1919 when most of Chula Vista consisted of lemon groves and farms. That also meant the city attracted a large number of insects. The county agriculture department built the insectary for the purpose of rearing beneficial insects that would aid in pest control. Basically, they bred good bugs that then would eat crop-harming bugs. This,
thereby, lowered the use of poisonous pesticides. The insectary continued operations until about 1989. Thereafter, the building, located at 511 G Street in Chula Vista, turned into administrative offices. The city has designated the building Historic Site No. 29. For more fun South Bay history, visit southbayhistoricalsociety.org.
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FOREVER YOUNG
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SCHOOL Sweetwater Coaches Come Together in Inaugural District Meeting
Recently more than 600 athletic coaches from across the Sweetwater Union High School District convened at Sweetwater High School for the first-ever All Coaches Meeting. The Sweetwater Athletics Office convened this professional development opportunity for coaches to provide an overview of several important topics that are relevant to athletic coaches. New, trending, hot topics included compliance, concussion protocols, Title IX, facilities, safety and much more.
The purpose of the mentorship program is to provide support for new incoming coaches from some of the district’s most seasoned coaches. ―Jo Heinz
The event also featured the introduction of a coaching mentor program that provides guidance and support for all athletic coaches across every sport offered in the Sweetwater District. “The purpose of the mentorship program is to provide support for new incoming coaches from some of the district’s most seasoned coaches,” said Joe Heinz, Sweetwater District Coordinator of Athletics. “In this new era of school athletics, there is a lot more rigor required of our coaches. It’s a different time; that’s why this program is so important to help them navigate through coaching. Currently the program has 28 active coaches. Some are current coaches, while others have retired. “It’s great that despite what season these coaches are in, they’ve still dedicated the time to be a resource for our new coaches,” said Heinz. According to Heinz, these coaches understand what it takes to be a head coach, but also the administrative side as well. “I’m excited to see where Sweetwater District Athletics is going,” said Heinz. “We truly appreciate the support from the Board of Trustees for validating the time and effort we have put into making Sweetwater District Athletics the best in the county.” OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 1 7
FOREVER YOUNG
FOREVER YOUNG
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The Chula Vista community offers many opportunities to engage seniors in volunteerism, thought, activity, safety, relationships and more. Here’s an overview of some of the offerings that you or a loved one may participate in or learn from.
Photos Courtesy of the City of Chula Vista
FOREVER YOUNG
MAKING THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
In July 2016 the City of Chula Vista became the 99th jurisdiction in the United States to enter the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)’s Age-Friendly Communities Network, an affiliate of the World Health Organization’s initiative. Acceptance into the network means a community's elected leadership is committed to actively work toward making their town, city or county a great place for people of all ages. While the City has been engaged in public health policy, programs and partnerships through the Healthy Chula Vista Initiative, the City recognized that a looming shift in the older adult population could present new and greater public health challenges. Specifically, the City is expected to see a doubling (from 16% to 32%) of those age 55 and over by 2050, and over a 200% increase of those adults over the age of 85. While the older adult population is expected to increase, the City is seeing a plateauing of adults and children, with negative growth in the college-age population. The five-year process of the Age-Friendly effort provided the structure to allow discussion, analysis and the platform to begin looking at the City’s livability through a ‘lens of age.’
Photos Courtesy of Zen Ply, AARP Volunteer
‘AGE FRIENDLY’
comprised of the Commission on Aging and Healthy Chula Vista Advisory Commission over the next three years. But, great things are already happening for older adults in Chula Vista, and the goal of the plan is to expand our daily work and interactions through that ‘lens of age.’ This summer the City became one of 129 awardees of the 2018 AARP Community Challenge Grant. The grant will fund two field trips for adults over the age of 60 utilizing the Metropolitan Transit System. The first field trip, on August 18, provided twenty residents of the Harvest Ridge Senior Apartment complex in the Otay Ranch Heritage neighborhood with a guided trip to HarborFest on the Bayfront. Participants received a 30-day transit pass and utilized bus and trolley service to and from the event. Perceptions and transit use are being tracked to determine the effectiveness of the field trip, and a video tutorial on transit is being produced from the events to educate and encourage older adults to use alternative transportation. The second field trip will take place in October 2018 to Norman Park Senior Center.
After two years of engagement, on July 10, 2018, the City’s first Age-Friendly Action Plan was adopted identifying strengths, gaps, a vision and opportunities in eight ‘Domains of Livability’ that were identified as being critical to making the city even more livable for all ages.
New projects and opportunities around the effort are sprouting in the community every day. Together with all city departments, community organizations, educational institutions, businesses, faith-based communities and residents, livability in Chula Vista will continue to increase through implementation of the Action Plan.
Implementation of the Chula Vista Age-Friendly Action Plan will be guided by the Joint Age-Friendly Task Force
To view the plan and learn how you can actively participate, visit chulavistaca.gov/agefriendly. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
FOREVER YOUNG
THE Y:
A PLACE FOR COMMUNITY According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 28% of adults 65 and older live alone. Senior isolation is a real problem in the U.S. with nearly 11 million older adults lacking consistent social interaction. This problem will only continue to grow as baby boomers retire and the older adult population continues to grow. There are numerous health risks associated with social isolation in seniors. Studies have shown that it can increase the mortality rate, cause a decline in physical health and greatly impact mental stability—frequently leading to depression and pessimism. The good news is that the YMCA is here to support this thriving community by bringing them together and encouraging healthy activities. In South San Diego, the YMCA has been an instrumental community partner for older adults and family wellness. As with other locations countywide, the South County YMCAs have a robust YMCA Active Adults (YAA) program. “We support YAA members in accomplishing many different types of things. Sometimes our wellness staff helps them recuperate from an injury or surgery and other times we set up events to bring people together,” said Laura Muñoz Humphreys, Executive Director at the South Bay Family YMCA. With everything from chair yoga to low-impact water fitness to social activities including book clubs and pot lucks, older adults have numerous opportunities to meet their health goals while nurturing social connections. “We have so much for older adults. We really enjoy seeing them laugh and smile when they come together,” continued Laura. The month of September is a great time to try the Y. From September 24 to 28, the Y will be holding special group exercise classes, wellness lectures, health screenings and member appreciation giveaways in honor of National Active Aging Week. These special activities are a great way to learn more about health and wellness for older adults and meet new people through social events. Additionally, if you join the Y in September, you will receive up to $50 off a YMCA program of your choice. For more information about National Active Aging Week at the Y or to learn about membership, contact the Welcome Center at (619) 421-9622.
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Photos Courtesy of the City of Chula Vista
FOREVER YOUNG
FUN AT THE NORMAN PARK SENIOR CENTER
As the aging community continues to grow and evolve, so are the programs at the Norman Park Senior Center. Hundreds are welcomed daily to a variety of programs and activities specifically coordinated to meet seniors’ needs. Classes range from physical activity, social interaction and even mental meditation through creative expression. Try out the designated “Cool Zone” center with your friends and neighbors for exercise class in the mornings Monday to Thursday from 8-9 a.m. Enjoy strength training, movement and stretching led by certified instructors who have created a class to meet specific needs for students at any level, novice to advanced. From there you can join bridge, bunco, bingo, shuffleboard, mahjong, or Scrabble. All games are offered at a variety of times so you can spend time with friends and members both in the mornings and evenings. Other social services include a bereavement group, English conversation, Spanish conversation or book club. Creatively express yourself with artfocused programming like the knitting group, artists’ social club, coloring group and creative writers club. Norman Park even has a billiards room and fitness center for you to enjoy! The fitness center is fully equipped with treadmills, bikes and strength training machines, helping members live a healthy lifestyle regardless of age. The Norman Park Senior Center has been an integral part of the City of Chula Vista for over 50 years and is the only designated “senior center” in the City of Chula Vista providing free and low-cost programs and services for all seniors in the community. For more information, call (619) 409-1930.
CHULA VISTA POLICE DEPARTMENT SEEKS SENIOR VOLUNTEER MEMBERS Recruitment is now open for new members of the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) Senior Volunteer Patrol program. No law enforcement experience is necessary in the duties assigned, which include services such as vacation house checks, vehicle abatement, handicapped parking enforcement and more. The CVPD Senior Volunteer Patrol allows sworn officers to conduct the more critical aspects of public safety. To be considered for the Senior Volunteer Patrol, applicants must be at least 50 years old, have a valid driver’s license, be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have good communication skills. Members do not carry a weapon, perform traffic stops or make arrests. A 40-hour training academy is provided to eligible applicants. A great way to see if this program is something you are interested in is to participate in a ride-along with current Senior Volunteer Patrol staff. To schedule a ride-along or to learn more about how you can assist your community by becoming a valued member of the Senior Volunteer Patrol, please call (619) 4762417 or visit www.chulavistaca.gov/svp. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
FOREVER YOUNG
Photo Courtesy of USFA
FIRE SAFETY FOR SENIORS by Jim Geering, Fire Chief, Chula Vista Fire Department
Typically, preventive information about fire and burns is targeted towards school-age children. Not often enough are fire prevention efforts and safety messages focused towards our senior population. Let’s face it, as we become older, we tend to take more risks and may not always have safety on the forefront of our minds. According to the United States Fire Administration, older adults face the greatest risk of dying in a fire. In 2015, older adults represented 15 percent of the United States population but suffered 40 percent of all fire deaths. In addition, older adults over age 85 were 3.8 times more likely to die in a fire than the total population. Families can do well by insisting that older parents who live on their own follow general safety practices around the house. Have smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home. Smoke detector batteries should be changed once a year at a minimum, and smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested monthly. You can ask a family member, home care assistant or case worker to test the alarms for you. Push and hold down the test button on the alarm; if it does not make a loud noise, the alarm needs new batteries or needs to be replaced. If you don’t have a smoke detector, ask your landlord or rental agent to install one. Or, contact the Chula Vista Fire Department (619) 691-5055 to get one installed. 22 O U R HOMETOWN • SEPT E MB E R 2 0 18
Here are a few more safety tips: IF YOU SMOKE • Never smoke when you are lying down, drowsy or in bed. Smoking is the #1 cause of home fires that kills older adults. • Use large, deep, tip-resistant ashtrays and place them on a flat surface. This will keep ashes from falling onto a nearby area that might burn. • Wet cigarette butts and ashes before emptying them into the trash. • Never smoke while using supplemental in-home oxygen tanks.
IF YOU COOK USING THE STOVE • Keep an eye on what you fry. Most cooking fires start when someone is frying food. • Wear short sleeves or roll them up so they don’t catch on fire. • Don’t cook if you are drowsy from alcohol or medicine. • If a pan of food catches fire, slide a lid over it and turn off the burner.
IF YOU USE A SPACE HEATER • Keep the heater three feet away from anything that can burn, including you. • Unplug heaters when you aren’t using them, including when you leave your home or go to bed. • Consider getting heaters that are designed to turn off if they tip over. You can find these tips and other safety information on the United States Fire Administration website at www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/media/pictographs/index.html. Adhering to safety tips like these can prove to be valuable effort towards healthier and safer living.
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SCAMS, CONS AND THEFTS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS TO KNOW ABOUT
Senior citizens are becoming a common target for thieves and con artists. Attributes that draw the attention of criminals include a large savings, home ownership and exceptional credit. Scam callers are not the only people to be worried about. Other common predators are con artists. Con artists pressure victims to act fast and take advantage of the opportunity they have presented due to time being limited, when in reality businesses do not pressure their customers into any deals without a thorough review. A few well known tricks that con artists have used include the “bank examiner” and “lottery winner.” The former is when a person calls, claiming to work at a bank, and needs you to transfer money to validate the serial numbers in order to catch a criminal. The latter is when someone calls to say she’s won the lottery, but cannot claim it as an undocumented immigrant. She tries to sell you the ticket so that you can cash it in. Of course, neither of these is leigitimate. Most of the time scams go unreported or are ignored due to seniors not knowing how to report them or feeling embarrassed to admit they fell for a scam. For these reasons the Chula Vista Police Department has made a commitment to educate the senior population on spotting scammers trying to lure them in.
More tips to avoid becoming a victim of a scheme include carefully reading a contract before signing, especially the small print; not purchasing property you have not seen in person; not paying for medical cures through the mail; avoiding get-rich schemes; carefully reviewing any bills and always asking for a receipt.
One sign is abnormal phone calls. Here are some common scams:
Unfortunately, another popular method to gain seniors’ personal information is stealing a wallet or purse. Thieves can easily gain access to credit cards, home addresses and social security numbers. They rummage through trash cans for important documents and may intersect and steal any “change of address” forms.
• Saying you have won a prize but requiring a payment for fees and taxes. (Payment to a legitimate sweepstakes or prize is illegal.) • Offering a risk-free investment opportunity. (All investments are risky, and companies are required to state all possible risks.) • Claiming to be the IRS. (The IRS never calls.) • Asking for donations without providing much information about the charity. (Legitimate charities can provide a source to prove their organizations is real.) • Stating your family member is in trouble; asking for your SSN, account number or passwords; not taking ‘no’ for an answer; offering to reduce your debt or to repair your credit score.
There are many ways to help make it harder for thieves to gain access to one’s information. Some of these tips include keeping a social security card in a safe place and not a wallet, constantly checking bills and statements, shredding personal documents and using ATM cards wisely. There are no guarantees that senior citizens will never be a possible victim of theft, scam callers or con artists, but becoming educated in common signs, knowing what to do if they do find themselves in a scheme and having tips to help prevent becoming a victim in the first place are a few steps closer to safety. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 25
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SAFER SENIOR LIVING WITH CAREPATROL
CarePatrol’s mission is simple: “We strive to provide the safest care options for seniors across America.”
Care Patrol was founded in 1994 by a social worker on one simple but profound premise: “personalized service is at the heart of what we do.” After observing personal trauma experienced by a family whose loved one had been placed in an inappropriate care facility, CarePatrol was formed. It has since become a pioneering organization; core values are being a comprehensive and personalized service and valuable resource for families during the placement of a loved one. It all begins with a simple phone call. So why is this call so important? Choosing a safe senior housing option, unfortunately, cannot be done on appearance alone. What is most important is something that really can’t be seen. It is, “Can this community really care for your loved one?” That’s why Care Patrol’s Advisors complete a “Level of Care Assessment” and base their recommendations on care options that can specifically meet individual needs and preferences. 26 O U R HOMETOWN • SEPT EMB E R 2 0 18
They pre-screen all care
They insist on transparency
providers they work with.
with pricing and services.
They earn the right to care for
Much like you, they don’t like
their clients.
surprises either.
There are hundreds of assisted living, independent living and memory care communities in the county who want to work with CarePatrol, but they are picky. They only invite care options into their network after they have personally visited them and have reviewed their care history and state inspection reports.
Paying for care is a concern for many of our clients. Another concern relates to the various services and levels of care provided in each specific home or community. CarePatrol can help alleviate these concerns through full transparency and sharing resources and programs that can help pay for your loved one’s care needs.
They believe in private and personalized tours. They literally walk clients through the steps. You will never get a list from them; nor will you be tasked with visiting each provider on your own. After they’ve matched the senior’s individualized needs to their network of safer care options, they accompany clients on a tour of the providers they recommend. You are never alone because they will be your personal guide in this journey, from start to finish.
How can you trust an advisor with quotas? A Senior Advisor with a “quota” is something you will never find at CarePatrol. The only “quota” they have is satisfied families. Your Certified Senior Advisor will be there for you when you need them—even after you make your decision. For more information about CarePatrol, contact Kirsten Copnhaver at (619) 378-6897 or Julie Derry at (619) 378-6895, or visit www.carepatrol.com.
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CHANGES ON THE HORIZON FOR CHULA VISTA SENIORS Sienna at Otay Ranch, a brand new senior living community, prepares for grand opening
Positive changes are on the horizon for Chula Vista seniors, especially those with Alzheimer’s Disease. Sienna at Otay Ranch, an Assisted Living and Memory Care community scheduled to open late this summer, will be the first in the area to offer a holistic approach to Alzheimer’s and Dementia care though its signature In the Moment program. The In the Moment program, which is exclusive to Sienna at Otay Ranch, is a team-approach to Dementia care that focuses on holistic healing, promoting overall well-being, and celebrating resident individuality. The program is broken down into six elements, called the Principles of Well-being: Artistic Expression, Physical Engagement, Spiritual Support, Community Connections, Continuing Education, and Lifestyle & Leisure. “The In the Moment program is revolutionary because it shifts away from the idea that Alzheimer’s Disease only impacts the mind,” explained Rosellen DeSimone, Regional Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Instead, In the Moment lets us see and experience each step of the Dementia journey along with our residents and treat them as a whole person, physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. It really helps us learn who our residents are and offer them an exceptional quality of life, despite their Alzheimer’s diagnosis. We’ve seen great results in other communities across the country and we are excited to bring this program to Chula Vista.” The idea that Alzheimer’s Disease is a journey that residents, staff, and residents’ families take together, and that no two journeys are the same, is a key component of the In the Moment program. “We want to walk hand-in-hand with families that are dealing with the struggles of memory loss,” said DeSimone. “One of the beautiful things about In the Moment is that it infuses hope into families struggling with and Alzheimer’s diagnosis.” To learn more about Sienna at Otay Ranch, the In the Moment program, and its full range of care options, call (520) 328-8509 or visit the sales office at 891 Kuhn Drive, Suite 101 in Chula Vista, CA. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 29
19th Annual Change Their Lives Each year, hundreds of families seek our help or need shelter. Together through Change Their Lives, we ensure that our youngest victims of violence and abuse and their families have the support they need to heal and prosper. Your participation supports our child abuse prevention and intervention programs: Mi Escuelita Preschool • Emergency Shelters • 24-hour Response Team Transitional Housing • Counseling • Job Readiness
Join Us|September 29, 2018
Hotel del Coronado | Vista Walk & Grand Ballroom Hors d’oeuvres • Signature & Hosted Cocktails Dinner • Silent Auction • Live Auction Dance the night away with Wayne Foster Entertainment Festive Carnaval Attire
To purchase tickets on-line or to donate, please visit www.SouthBayCommunityServices.org or contact Liz Ramirez, (760) 554-4836, lramirez@csbcs.org Individual Ticket - $300 • Table for 10 - $3,000
San Diego County Supervisor
Greg Cox
Anne Marie Mowatt Becky Cortez Brad Wilson Cheryl Cruz
Danielle Backy Diane Mueller Flor Franco Gina Rountree
Event Co-Chairs
Chula Vista Mayor
Mary Casillas Salas
Jennifer Bustamante Jill Smith Josie Flores Clark Kelly Lannom
National City Mayor Imperial Beach Mayor
Committee
Kevin O’Neill Lilly Molina Lynnette Tessitore Madeleine Baudoin
Ron Morrison
Michelle Chavez Minerva Garcia Monica Montaño Mora de Murguia
SBCS is a community-based non-profit 501(c)3 - Tax ID 95-2693142.
Serge Dedina
Natalie Flores Raeann Herrera Sonia Galaviz Steve Howell
Vanessa Mapula Garcia Venus Molina Vera Howell
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OUT & ABOUT SEPTEMBER
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. 08 JUMANJI @ Orange Park, 1475 Fourth Avenue in Chula Vista. Rated PG. 22 THOR-RAGNAROK @ Harborside Park, 670 Oxford Street in Chula Vista. Rated PG-13. 28 LEGO BATMAN @ Montevalle Park, 840 Duncan Road Ranch in Chula Vista. Rated PG.
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. 12 “THE CONVERSATION” Rated PG. 26 “NOTORIOUS” Rated PG.
08 SOUTH BAY PRIDE @Bayside Park, 550 Marina Parkway in Chula Vista. This is a free family event with great food, spirits, music, art and beachside activities promoting awareness and showing support for the South Bay LGBTQ* community. For more info, visit http:// SouthBayPride.org/.
09 LEMON FESTIVAL @ 4 – 7 p.m. @ Memorial Bowl, 373 Park Way in Chula Vista. Enjoy an evening of free, family fun with classic rock anthems by Dirty Bird Band. Kids’ activities provided. For more info, visit chulavistaca.gov/ MusicinThePark.
13 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.
15 HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION @ noon – 2 p.m. @ Otay Ranch Town Center, Dining Pavilion in Chula Vista. This is a free, family-friendly event with live music from Bulevar Descargo, appearances by Xavier the X-man and the Magic 92.5 Street Team, giveaways, prizes and more.
16 PROJECT BOOKMARK READING FUN EVENT @ 1 – 3 p.m. @ BonitaSunnyside Branch Library, 4375 Bonita Road in Bonita. Girl Scouts Troop 5007 is hosting a free childhood literacy event with story time, a book swap, and bookmark craft projects.
21 SENIOR ADVOCATE NETWORK EVENT @ 10 a.m. @ Norman Park Senior Center, Room 9, 270 F Street in Chula Vista. Local specialists will address two important areas for seniors: medical and final expenses. They will report on Medicare updates plus the importance of pre-planning for final expenses, including funeral and medical expenses. All Medi-cal recipients, seniors and their families are invited. Contact Mike at (619) 206-8680 for more info.
FOLLOW @OURHOMETOWNCHULAVISTA ON FACEBOOK! PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
21-22 BONITAFEST kicks off with the Twilight Trail Parade on Friday @ 6 p.m. at Sunnyside Saddle Club Arena in Rohr Park. Dress festively, don't forget the glow sticks and flashlights. The Performing Arts Festival on Saturday is from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 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, and enjoy arts and crafts.
22 BABY SAFETY FAIR @ 8 a.m. – noon @ Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center, 751 Medical Center Court in Chula Vista. Learn how to keep your baby safe before and after your family leaves the hospital. Free car seat installation and inspections provided on a firstcome, first-served basis. For more information, visit sharp.com/ babysafetyfair or call 1-800-82SHARP (1-800-827-4277).
SAVE THE DATE 10/19: CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GOLF TOURNAMENT @ 1 p.m. shotgun start @ Chula Vista Golf Course, 4475 Bonita Road in Bonita. $450 for foursome, $125 for individuals. Includes green fee, cart, range balls, boxed lunch and awards banquet. For more info, email info@ chulavistachamber.org or call (619) 420-6603. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3 1
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
PACIFIC COAST CHRISTIAN PREP
Pacific Coast Christian Prep (PCCPrep), located right in the heart of Eastlake, is a new independent college-preparatory private Christian school for students in grades TK-12. Dedicated to the pursuit of Biblical worldview discipleship interwoven in exceptional academics, elite athletics and expressive arts, PCCPrep strives to prepare its graduates to live out God’s call and impact the world for Christ. Elementary school students at PCCPrep are taught a STEMfocused math and science curriculum, including coding courses and plenty of hands-on learning opportunities. They are also given a strong foundation in language arts and history to prepare them for middle school and high school honors and AP courses. Spanish, music, drama, and physical education are included as well. Bible is taught, not only as a separate subject, but also as the lens through which all other courses are understood. Junior high and high school students have honors, AP, and dual-credit courses available to them, with a STEM focus that incudes engineering and pre-med classes. The fine arts department provides several performance opportunities, such as a one-act play, a musical, showcases and competitions. The worship team leads in chapel each week as well as at the yearly retreat and for special events. PCCPrep offers both junior and senior high school athletic programs. Competing in the CIF San Diego Section, PCCPrep fields over 16 CIF teams in diverse sports. Novice to collegebound athletes play on one or more teams including basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball and wrestling.
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The faculty and staff at PCCPrep believe that parents are the primary educators of their children, and it is their aim to partner with them in that effort. To that end, the parent community is active in the life of the school, helping to foster strong relationships between home and school in the educational and spiritual pursuits of their children. “It is rare that a school comes along that is the perfect combination of academic excellence and an unapologetic pursuit of God and his Kingdom. PCCPrep is just the type of Christian school that many of us have been looking for!” says Dr. Jeff Sullivan, PCCPrep parent and professor at Point Loma Nazarene University. High school senior Eliana McGee says, “What I like about PCCPrep is that we have teachers who truly know their subjects and genuinely care about us. I’m also excited that I have the opportunity to be involved in both the drama and worship teams.” Fourth grader Cara Mia Du Bose says, “I like the teachers because they’re so nice. And I like my typing class–we get to learn to type really fast in there!” Though the school is new, each teacher has an average of 15 years’ experience, and its directors have a combined 50 years in Christian education. Each teacher is nationally certified, and more than half have earned graduate degrees in their subjects. The expertise and passion for Christian education that the faculty brings are exceptional. Pacific Coast Christian Prep offers weekly tours and welcomes drop-in visits, phone calls and email inquiries. You may also visit www.pccprep.org.
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Councilmeber John McCann's
CITIZEN OF THE MONTH
STAN AND BRENDA CANARIS
Councilmember John McCann is honored to recognize Stan and Brenda Canaris as District 1 Citizens of the Month for September 2018. Individually, their contributions to our community have had rippling effects for many years to thousands of students, friends and families, but together their smiles, kindness and efforts have been living examples of dedication and commitment which inspire everyone they know. Stan Canaris recently retired after 36 years of service with Sweetwater Union High School District as a teacher, football coach and dean of activities at various schools. He oversaw the opening of Eastlake High School in 1992 and served as vice principal before assuming the role of principal in 1995. It was under his leadership that the “newest high school in the district” at that time earned recognition as a California Distinguished School as well as numerous athletic banners, the construction of a state-of-the-art observatory and hired a high quality staff earning Eastlake many awards. To honor him for his contributions to the district and the community, Eastlake High School named its athletic stadium Stan Canaris Stadium. Brenda Canaris worked for Sweetwater Union High School District for 16 years and was the leader in directing their sons as they matured. Brenda earned her teaching credential and taught home economics after their boys graduated from Bonita Vista High School. Brian and David are now men with families of their
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own, blessing Stan and Brenda with two grandsons and two granddaughters, all of whom attend schools in Eastlake. Stan and Brenda are busy as volunteers for the Eastlake Education Foundation, which is celebrating 25 years of philanthropic endeavors. EEF has generated over two million dollars for our Eastlake schools. Stan and Brenda help host three major fundraising events each year: Taste of Eastlake, Stan Canaris Annual Golf Tournament and Eastlake Cycle. These events help to generate monies for our schools, bringing our residents and schools closer together. Brenda also volunteers as a tutor helping children catch up on their reading levels. Stan’s current project is to help save the Starlight Bowl in Balboa Park. A grassroots organization called “Save Starlight” has a goal to refurbish and reinvigorate Starlight Bowl as a multifaceted hub for San Diego community performances, events and education. They imagine a new generation of diverse performances while preserving the Starlight Bowl’s heritage, accompanied by the technology to address opportunities and challenges for its location and architecture. Visit savestarlight.org for more information. Stan and Brenda just celebrated 54 years of marriage and look forward to many more rewarding years in Eastlake with lots of travel, enjoyment and appreciation for this beautiful world.
Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
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