Festive f�LL
october 2014
BUSI��SS HIgHLIgH�S MARTIAL ARTS WARRIORS PRESCOTT & LOWTHER
STAN & BRENDA CANARIS
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID GARDENA, CA PERMIT #40
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CONTENTS
O C T O B E R 2 0 14
FROM THE EDITOR As I walked across my yard this weekend, I was surprised to hear the sound of crunching leaves under my feet. It’s been so hot, I thought. Why are there leaves on the ground? Ah, fall is here. The liquid amber and mulberry trees in our yard are telling me so. It’s time for me to rake and plant. Since we didn’t grow any pumpkins this year, I should buy some. I also need to sort through our costume box and prepare for Halloween. I can even start planning our fall barbecue. Perhaps the change in season triggers a similar response in you. This month we celebrate the festive atmosphere that fall brings by sharing ideas—ideas on decorating your home, planning a party and keeping your kids safe when they trick or treat. We’ve even included a recipe for you to try and 11 favorite movies that have just the right amount of spookiness in them. Fall is a wonderful time of year because it’s not too hot and it’s not too cold. It introduces a holiday that typically requires more preparation than those in the summer, but not as much as Thanksgiving and Christmas or Hanukkah. Fall prepares us for winter, and we at Our Hometown hope you have a festive one!
AMBER WEBER, editor
15 FESTIVAL FALL 04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
12 HOUSE & HOME Lease Purchase Program
15 FEATURE Festival Fall
22 ON TOPIC Developing Balanced Athletes
24 EDUCATION Montgomery High Modernization
26 CALENDAR Out & About
28 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS Martial Arts Warriors Prescott & Lowther
30 RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Stan & Brenda Canaris
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 3
BRAVO
Great Things Happening in our Community
SWC Stand-Out Jags (L to R) : Gabe Casillas, Divanuel Flores, Donald McCuddy, Raymond Clapper. | Photos courtesy of Bianca Quilantan
To the SWC Jags Players of the Week. During the September 6 inaugural football game at Southwestern College’s newly built Devore Stadium against Grossmont, the SWC Jags recognized two stand-out players. Defensive player DIVANUEL FLORES recorded five tackles, one quarterback hurry and an interception. He is the starting middle linebacker. This is his second season at Southwestern College; he is a 2013 graduate of Olympian High School. Defensive player RAYMOND CLAPPER is a 2012 graduate of Chula Vista High School and a returning all-conference selection. He recorded three tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack plus
caused a fumble. This is his second season at Southwestern College; he is the starting defensive end. The SWC Jags beat Grossmont 35-6. On September 13 against Santa Monica, the 2013 Pacific Conference champions, the SWC Jags recognized two more stand-out players. GABE CASILLAS was the catalyst in opening gaping holes for Charles Westbrook, who rushed 18 times for 240 yards. He is a 2012 graduate of Eastlake High School. DONALD MCCUDDY, a graduate of Bonita Vista High School, recorded four tackles on the kickoff team and was exemplary in his snapping and blocking assignments. The SWC Jags beat Santa Monica 52-27. Go Jags!
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4 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
PUBLISHED BY:
To the BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF SOUTH COUNTY for earning a renovation grant for Len Moore Skate Park from Lunchables Lunch Combinations. The new obstacle run includes a kicker ramp into a bank to ledge, a roller, a pump bump and a solid concrete rail called a mailbox. The unveiling event on September 23 included a special video message from Rob Dyrdek, whose foundation funded a portion of the cost for the renovations and sent giveaways for the event. A number of local skaters attended so they could be the first to skate the new run. This donation at the Boys & Girls Club of South County is part of a fiveyear partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which includes a $200k per year donation over five years, up to $1 million, from the Lunchables brand. For more info on Len Moore Skate Park, which is open to the public, visit www.bgcscounty.org.
To the 2014 ORANGE CRATE DERBY WINNERS in four age groups. The annual event was organized by the Chula Vista Sunrise Rotary and Chula Vista Sunset Rotary clubs, reviving a tradition that began in 1978. The Rotarians organized volunteers, arranged sponsors and, most importantly, made race day fun! With customized orange crate cars made of wood, about 40 kids raced down Rancho Del Rey Parkway in vehicles with names including Blue Lightning, Speedy Bear, Freedom Racer and Shooting Star.
To TY VALKANAS of Global Fighting Legion in Eastlake for earning the Silver Medal in the Masters 3 Blue Belt Division from the American Nationals United States Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation Competition on September 6. At the age of 43, Valkanas trained through consistent workouts and healthy eating. This is his second career Silver Medal from this national competition. This qualifies him for the World Masters Championship International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Competition to be held in November.
PUBLISHER Michael Monaco
EDITOR Amber Weber
DESIGNER Melissa Monroy
CONTRIBUTOR Jen Amos
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
Volunteers Needed for 12th Annual
Beautify Chula Vista
Registration for Beautify Chula Vista, the popular neighborhood clean-up event, is now open. Volunteers may choose to beautify either Rice Canyon at Discovery Park (700 Buena Vista Way, 91910) or Harborside Park (670 Oxford Street, 91911). The community event, hosted by Mayor Cheryl Cox and the Chula Vista City Council, in collaboration with I Love a Clean San Diego, Republic Services, Buff a Block and the Chula Vista Clean Team, is scheduled for Saturday, October 11 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at each location. More than 600 volunteers are expected to turn out this year to pick up litter, clean up graffiti and remove invasive plants and weeds. This is a great opportunity for students to earn community service hours and for residents to lend a helping hand in their community. All volunteers, whether individuals or groups, must register prior to the event. For more details and to register, visit www.beautifychulavista.org. Contact I Love a Clean San Diego at volunteers@cleansd.org or call (619) 291-0103 with questions.
6 OUR HOMETOWN ¡ OCTOBER 2014
Trick or Treat
at Village Walk at EastLake and EastLake Village Marketplace ď ł OcT. 31 FROM 3 TO 5 P.M.
Calling all ghosts and goblins! Children ages 12 and under are invited to pick up free treats at participating merchants at Village Walk at EastLake and EastLake Village Marketplace on Friday, October 31 from 3 to 5 p.m.
On your Doorstep
Children should dress in costume and be accompanied by an adult. Simply check in at one of the free registration areas, receive a free treat bag and then enjoy the costumed characters and free treats planned by many of the merchants at both centers at this annual event. Village Walk at EastLake is located on EastLake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista and features 30 stores and services including Trader Joe’s, Sprouts Farmers Market, Pier 1 Imports and T.J. Maxx. EastLake Village Marketplace is located on the corner of Otay Lakes Road and EastLake Parkway in Chula Vista and features 30 shops and services including Target, Lowe’s and Office Depot. For additional info, call (858) 695-2700.
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 7
On your Doorstep
South Bay Family YMCA Wins $10,000 Grant to Fight Obesity
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one third of children and adolescents are overweight or obese. These young people face immediate and long-term health effects. The South Bay Family YMCA wants to change this.
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8 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
Our local YMCA has received a $10,000 grant from Kaiser Permanente for the Salsa, Sabor y Salud program, a national, healthy lifestyles program for Latino families. It was developed by the National Latino Children's Institute and Kraft Foods in 2002 and provides tools to encourage healthy habits among Latino families. Designed by Latinos for Latinos, Salsa, Sabor y Salud incorporates many aspects of Latino culture including music and family gatherings. Salsa, Sabor y Salud is a free, eightweek, bilingual program that will assist Latino families at Finney, Silver Wing and Smythe elementary schools to make healthy food choices and to incorporate activity into their daily lives, involving the entire family. These schools reside in the one of the most economically challenged, yet culturally rich communities of South County. As the leading organization for healthy lifestyles in the South Bay, a top priority for the YMCA is preventing chronic disease and obesity in the community. The YMCA has a long-standing commitment to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility and is committed to helping more children reach their potential, helping more people to achieve better health and encouraging everyone to get involved and make their community a better place. Of the families the South Bay Family YMCA serves, 64 percent are of Hispanic descent and 52 percent live at or below the poverty level. Through the Salsa Sabor y Salud program, the YMCA, in partnership with Kaiser Permanente, will achieve its goal of reaching more families so they can develop healthy habits that last a lifetime, in a culturally conscious manner. For more info, call the YMCA at (619) 421-9622 or visit www.southbay.ymca. org/giving/salsa-sabor-y-salud.html.
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Veterans Walk (6K)
Chula Vista’s Civic Engagement Series, Part II
13th Annual Event: Nov 1 Founded in 2001 by Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2111, the Chula Vista Veterans Walk has been improving the Chula Vista Veterans Home’s quality of life for residents. The event brings materials and services unavailable due to gaps and periodic cuts in state and federal budgets. It is in memory of LT Bobby Russell Price, USN (Ret), one of the founding members of the event. Triggered by shared goals of assisting veterans in their twilight years and vowing never to forget their sacrifices toward freedom, several veterans organizations have come together in support of this endeavor. Joining the VFW, veterans from American Legion Post 434, Marine Corps League Det. 1207, Fleet Reserves Association, United States Submarine Veterans and the Chula Vista Elks Lodge have assembled to help out and ensure the event’s success.
In May, Chula Vista community members met to discuss issues that hinder the city’s image. They created a list of ideas to improve that image at home and throughout the region. Now they want to take several of these ideas and bring them to reality.
The event will take place at “The Hub,” the Chula Vista Public Library’s community space at Otay Ranch Town Center, 2015 Birch Road. Light refreshments and registration will be available beginning at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call (619) 691-5170.
Join your neighbors on Monday, October 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. for an exciting evening of collective deliberation and brainstorming to develop an action plan that can move Chula Vista forward into a bright future.
This civic engagement project is funded by a grant from The Chula Vista Charitable Foundation, an affiliate of The San Diego Foundation.
Oct 2o @ 6 - 8 p.m. @ "The Hub"
On Saturday, Nov. 1, the 13th annual walk will begin at the Chula Vista Veterans Home and end at VFW Post 2111. Entertainment by the Chula Vista Fire Department Band and brunch will be provided for walkers. The event will also have raffles, with all donations going to the Veterans Home. Please register to walk as an individual or team, or sponsor this great cause to support those who have served our country with pride and selfless sacrifice. Visit www.CVVeteransWalk.org or contact Kristine Wunder, Junior Vice Commander, Event Chair, VFW Post 2111, for more info at Kristinewunder@ outlook.com or (619) 852-7382.
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 9
On your Doorstep
Marching Band Review,
Parade and Festival
Through creative partnership with the Otay Ranch Town Center and the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce, Parade Band Foundation, Inc. has connected both the community and local businesses in a synergetic atmosphere.
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
For more info, call (619) 796-BAND or email info@paradeband.org. 10 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
The Parade Band Review draws as many as 30 marching bands with thousands of participants from throughout San Diego and surrounding counties. Now the largest event of its kind in San Diego and among the top five largest in Southern California, it has grown from over 3,000 people to 20,000 people in only a few years. Local military veterans, community service organizations, athletic teams, school clubs, cheerleaders, classic cars, team mascots, dance teams, ROTCs, local businesses and community leaders participate in the community parade. This unique, family-friendly event also features a community festival comprised of Chula Vista's businesses, non-profit groups, clubs and other organizations. The festival’s main stage features a cultural arts showcase with show choirs, elementary music programs, ballet folklorico and other local performing groups. The 5th Annual Parade Band Review will take place on Eastlake Parkway, between Birch Road and Kestrel Falls, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8. The community festival will take place at the Otay Ranch Town Center, Macy’s south parking lot, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the same day. The events are free.
On your Doorstep
“
Marching bands, as part of parades, are a powerful display of unity—individuals coming together to make beautiful music with feet marching in time, in unison, for one purpose, where the sum is greater than any individual. Imagine a parade without bands, only floats, balloons, horses, celebrities. [It would be] a celebration without a soundtrack.
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Parade Band Foundation is dedicated to preserving this grand American tradition that has had us tapping our feet and clapping our hands to the exciting sounds of marching bands since the birth of our great nation. We are committed to ensuring that bands will continue marching on, bringing crowds to thunderous ovation for generations to come,
”
said Jason Paguio, President/CEO of Parade Band Foundation, Inc.
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OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 11
HOUSE & HOME Lease Purchase Program The effects of the last recession have left a wake of unqualified potential homeowners. Many want to buy a home, but due to a previous short sale, job loss or other unforeseen financial problem, they may be unable to qualify for a traditional mortgage loan.
A lease-to-own program may make home ownership a possibility. Not all programs are alike, but a lease purchase program is fair and usable for many people. This program is only offered by a select group of real estate professionals and is not for everyone. If you qualify, the program allows you to select a home for sale on the market like a typical buyer. It also allows you to add certain improvements to the property before you take possession and then lease the property from one to five years from the investor or until you decide to purchase or not renew your lease. The program is simple, straightforward and eliminates most downsides. The investor will purchase the property with cash and then lease it to you at fair market value. During this time you can work towards a possible purchase, if you wish. At a time of your choosing within your lease timeframe, you can buy the property at original purchase price plus a five percent annual increase, which is what many experts predict annual values in San Diego will increase. Keep in mind the investor will not be your lender if you choose to purchase. You will need to select a lender when you’re ready and the time is right. If you do not have one, your real estate professional can advise you. You are not committed to purchase the property. For example, if you’re in the military or new to the area and want to buy a home but aren’t sure if this is the right location, you can use this program to buy time. It’s a win–win! If you decide to stay, you have the option to buy the home your family has made their own. If you need to relocate or move, you simply end the lease at the appropriate time. “I’ve never seen a better Lease Purchase Program. This new program makes good sense for many potential homebuyers,” stated local broker Bob Carlseen of Remax Praecelsus in Eastlake. Remember, always consult a professional and do your homework. For more info, call Bob Carlseen at (619) 216-1018 or visit RemaxPraecelsus.com. License # 01859667.
12 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
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OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 13
Onthank your you Doorstep The EastLake Educational Foundation Board of Directors would like to extend our sincerest to all the sponsors, participants, and volunteers at our 19th Annual Stan Canaris Invitational Golf Tournament. Bravo!
THANK PRESENTING SPONSOR:
EastLake Country Club SILVER SPONSORS:
Walters Management Republic Services Petrov Law Firm Balfour Beatty Construction
MILITARY SPONSORS:
CART SPONSOR:
O’leary Group with Raymond James Financial, Bob & Sue Sutherland, Sally Cuff, John Hadley, Dwight Moody
RMR Asset Management
YOU HOLE SPONSORS:
Air Conditioning Guys, Inc., Albion Soccer Club South, Ball Honda, Bay Bridge Brewing ,California Bears Baseball Club, David Baumgarten, David Levi & Sons, Dixon Golf, EastLake Tavern and Bowl, eLiveLife.com, Focuscom, Inc., Hooters Mission Valley, Jake Taylor Long Drive Champ, James Weselis, Jay Haddad, Jersey Mikes, John Casey, Karina’s Mexican Seafood Cuisine, Maya Bloch, Mpact People, Northgate Market, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Organo Gold, Sonnenberg Financial, South Bay Physical Medicine, Sport Clips, Tony Demopoulos, Walgreens, Witt Lincoln, Zorba’s
EVENT CHAIR:
GOLFERS:
Stan Canaris
Joey Morstad Billy Morstad Jim Morstad Elston Howard
Justin Bernnan Ryan McCrary Matt Dente London Meservy
Marty French Brad Lafell Bruce Broadfoot Jeff Boultelle
Tim McCain Jake Donbroski Geore Onesorgan Chad Heap
Nick Haubrich Jim Depperschmidt Rene Ballejos John Woods
Dave Gonzalez Mike Tice Bailey Howell Brad Cutler
Juan Ruiz Ken Lacuaniello Clark Allen Rob Johnson
John Carroll Brad Hobson Pompeyo Baragon Susan Carroll
Daniel Petrov Dan Gilleon Dale Smith David Lizzaraga
Gary Sr. Fessia Dale Mansty Manny Tenoriom Joy Gritts
Lisa Manglicmot Rick Berry Ray Baker Matt Decker
Doug Lewis Paul Stevens Tom Teschner Kevin Kennedy
Mike Robledo Mike Yerkey Todd Graves Barry Lane
Rick Graichen Cory Schweer Steve Price Shaun Mooney
Joe Farinelli Barry Burzo Rob Felix Randy Newhard
John Raue John Boone Tom Davis Larry Waters
Tom Glover Tim Glover Larry Perondi Dan Winters
Mark Nelson Gil Balaoing Annabelle Balaoing Joseph O’Leary
Gary Horns Noah Horns David Luttbeg Ralph Riccardi
Francisco Mondragon Mike Mendez Steven Sekimoto Scott Ozaki
Tom Picard Silas Pollock Mike Oppenheimer Brian Canaris
Mike Whitmore MatthewWhitmore Jim Knox Kevin Knox
Fale Lewis Olie Martinez Tom Spence David Gonzalez
Francisco Escobedo Kirk Burgamy Rick Hopkins Jason Canari Mark Scott Steve Miesen
Dave Pierce Paul Sumner Nikki Baumgartner William Ostrem
Todd Sutherland Franz Kersch Chuck Pugsley Kevin Pike
Shane Stroberg Mark Robertson Justin Wees Mark Romero
RADM Len Hering USN(ret) RDML John Nagley USN CAPT Steve Busch, USN(ret) Mike Magnani
EVENT VOLUNTEERS:
Alan Duke Amanda Gregory, EEF Board of Directors Arroyo Vista Charter School Parents Barbara Legg, EEF Board of Directors Buffy Parker Darlene Kaeter Diane Alexander Don Owens, EastLake Middle EastLake Country Club Ambassadors EastLake Elementary Parents Lynn Howell, EEF Board of Directors Maeda Webster Mike Parker, EEF Board of Directors Olympic View Elementary Principals & Teachers Salt Creek Elementary Parents Susan Mahler, EEF Board of Directors
EVENT EMCEE: John Carroll
SAVE THE DATES
Taste of EastLake January 23, 2015
EastLake Educational Foundation
Bridging Schools and Communities Since 1995
20th Annual Stan Canaris Invitational August 24th, 2015
Contact Information: Nicole Graichen
619-997-6470, nicole@eefkids.org, www.eefkids.org OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 14
Festive f�LL
�s w� p��p��� fo� �h� f�ll s��son, wh�� do w� of��n do? Perhaps we make Halloween costumes, purchase (or harvest from our own yard) pumpkins or squash, decorate the house or even plan a party.
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 15
Festival Fall
Decorating for Fall with Leaves, Pumpkins and Candles Nothing reminds us of a Southern California fall like a soft and
falling leaves, pumpkin patches suddenly fluffy sweater,
popping up around town, fall
harvest displays at our
local grocery stores and the
crackling wood fire. We have cozy days and occasional,
longer nights. We leave the
outdoors to take our activities and homework indoors.
16 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
Even though we don’t necessarily prepare for a chilly or snowy winter, we find ourselves nesting and assembling our home for yet another fall season. This fall, bring a few added decorating touches to your home with the textures, layers and senses of the season. Welcome your guests at the front door with potted daisies in orange, green, white or yellow. Add a straw bale or outdoor rustic bench to create height. Place several different-sized pumpkins and gourds throughout. At the end of the month, replace the whole pumpkins with carved jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween.
Decorate mantels, table tops, buffets and entryway tables with layers of dried autumn leaves in shades of red, yellow, purple and brown. Baskets and trays filled with apples, dried corn cobs and dried fall arrangement topiaries are a simple and inexpensive fall decorating touch. Add glass hurricane candle holders with neutral pillar candles surrounded by walnuts, pecans, almonds and Brazil nuts. Woven baskets do the trick when organizing cashmere, wool, chenille or cotton cable-knit throw blankets. Firewood and pine cones placed in baskets next to the fireplace serve as reminders of a cozy fire to come.
Feature Models: Shay Harrison, Kross Harrison, Kapri Harrison
By Neil Alan, Neil Alan Designs
Editor's Picks 11 Halloween
Fill your home with the smells of fall with scented candles. Pumpkin, cinnamon or even wood-fire scented candles can offer a touch of light around the table, bathroom, or family room and will serve its decorating purpose while filling your home with the smells of harvest. As you decorate your home for fall, remember to protect wood and glass surfaces from the scratching of dried gourds, twigs and pines cones, dripping candles or branch sap. And, there’s no need to redecorate for Thanksgiving after Halloween if you create a base that easily transitions from one into the other. Whether adding a touch of fall or a fall decorating overhaul, remember that the layers, textures and senses of fall are but a leaf’s turn away until winter and the holiday season.
Have a decorating dilemma? Neil Alan Designs is a full-service interior design and aesthetics consultation firm. For more info or to schedule a design consultation, email info@neilalandesigns.com or call (619) 825-8128.
Family Movie Night Favorites
The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949) It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966) Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971) E.T. (1982) Ghostbusters (1984) Kiki's Delivery Service (1989) Hocus Pocus (1993) Monsters, Inc. (2001) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001) Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 17
Festival Fall
Police Department Offers
Halloween Safety Tips Before halloween
trick-or-Treaters
• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
Make sure your children know the following:
• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts. Older children should also wear a wristwatch and know what time to return home.
• Use a flashlight to see and be seen by others. • Always walk. Never run across a street.
• Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider hypoallergenic make-up or a decorative hat as a safe alternative. If your child wears a mask, make sure he knows to remove it before crossing a street. • Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame. • Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet. • When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant. • Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
18 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
• Teach children their home phone number and how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone. • Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll," should their clothes catch on fire. • Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time. • Decide which adult will accompany young children while trick-or-treating.
• Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where they are going. • Only trick-or-treat in well-known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.
• Wait until getting home to sort and check treats. A responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items. • Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. • If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic. • Never cut across yards or use alleys. • Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat. • Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations. • Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks. • Never accept unwrapped food items or open beverages.
Before Trick-or-Treating:
Plan and review with your children the [trick-or-treating] route and
acceptable behavior.
Do not permit children to bicycle,
roller-blade or skateboard. Agree on a specific when older children must return home.
time
staying Home • A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats. • Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors. • Keep jack-o’-lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking. • Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house. • Children can help with the fun of designing jack-o’-lanterns, but leave the carving to adults. • Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community. • Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.
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OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 19
Festival Fall
Plan the Perfect Halloween
Party
By Lynn Twork
With the internet at the tip of your fingers, planning a Halloween event has never been simpler. A quick internet search for “Halloween” will give you more pumpkin carving designs, crafts and recipes than you could ever possibly try. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming. Here are five simple steps to keep your event or party on track to be a great success.
1| Budget.
This will reduce over-spending and minimize wasted shopping. Going “all out” on decorations can be fun but also expensive. With a little creativity, a few bags of cotton spider webs, plastic tablecloths and some pumpkins can transform your home or venue into a spook-tacular place without a hefty price tag.
SENIORS!
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Call Randy or Jim your local Medicare Advantage specialists (619) 420-7600 345 F Street, Suite 210, Chula Vista FAX (619) 420-6553 | www.prescott-ins.com
Jim Lowther jim@prescott-ins.com CA#0D98901
Randy Prescott randy@prescott-ins.com CA# 0441523
2| Plan.
Decide which date, time and location will be best to host the event. Be creative and give yourself plenty of time; doing so will help keep the last-minute stress down. Decide what your targeted audience will be and keep the festivities age-appropriate.
3| Promote.
Use social media to promote your event. If you’re planning a larger community event, try asking your local coffee shop, church, school or businesses to post a flyer for your community event. They are often happy to help.
4| Teamwork.
A party is always a great way to bring your family, friends, kids or even the community businesses together as a whole. See if anyone wants to help decorate, run errands or contact sponsors.
5| Have Fun!
This is the most important advice to follow in the planning process.
20 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
Family services
Recipe:
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An Our Hometown Staff Selection from Taste of Home
4 Servings 15 min. total time including prep
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(855) 619-6191 www.LSABT.com
Ingredients
1-1/2 cups cold fat-free milk 1 pkg (1 oz.) sugar-free instant butterscotch pudding mix 1/2 cup canned pumpkin 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 1 cup fat-free whipped topping, divided
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
Directions
In a large bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Combine the pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger and all spice; fold into pudding. Fold in half cup whipped topping. Transfer to individual serving dishes. Refrigerate until serving.
Dr. Lynette Henderson and rescue kitten
Telegraph Canyon Animal Medical Center 577 Telegraph Canyon Road, Chula Vista (619) 421-1323 • www.TelegraphCanyonVet.com
Our Hometown Tip:
To give the mousse a spooky appearance, add some whipped cream to the top of each dish to look like ghosts. Then place two minichocolate chips onto the front of the ghosts to serve as eyes.
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 21
ON TOPIC
Fall Sports
Developing Healthy, Balanced, Happy Athletes
HeavenlyMinded. But Down to Earth. At Lighthouse, we see some things as EASTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS most important: Listening to God, loving people, and living with purpose—building a little bit of heaven on earth in any small WEST CHULA VISTA CAMPUS way we can. As a result we are growing (SPANISH SERVICE) both as people and in numbers and adding AHORA OFRECEMOS SERVICIOS DE services along the way. Join us this Sunday. ADORACIÓN EN ESPAÑOL. DOMINGOS
SUNDAYS AT 9:30AM & 11:15AM SUNDAYS AT 1PM
LOOKING FOR MORE IN LIFE THAN WORK, SLEEP, RINSE AND REPEAT? CHECK OUT LIGHTHOUSE.
A LAS 1:00 PM EN NUESTRA LOCALIDAD OESTE DE CHULA VISTA (630 CORTE MARIA AVE.)
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT LIGHTHOUSE?
Call us at 619.427.9700 or go online: lighthouseeastlake.com
22 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
Our kids are back in school and many are engaged in or looking for afternoon extracurricular activities. Organized sports are terrific extracurricular outlets that teach kids fundamental skills such as agility, balance, coordination, discipline, self-awareness, effective communication and emotional management, among others. Getting involved in sports is also a great social outlet for kids and parents to connect with other families interested in sports, health and fitness. Do you have a young athlete who is interested in competitive sports or achieving peak performance? Is your child ready? How do you choose the right sport or coach for your child? How do you motivate your child to play? Where can you find a good athletic program? What are the best things to focus on when discussing a performance? Let’s take a look at what may be one of your first questions: Which sport should you choose? The first sport you choose for your child is not as important as choosing the right program or coach. Select a program that is committed to teach the fundamentals of the sport. Many introductory sport programs are so focused on teaching sportspecific skills and finding the next great athlete that the necessary fundamentals are forgotten. It’s disturbing to read about or watch the countless stories of parents and coaches being enraged and becoming violent over youth sports, parents jockeying for their child to start or to get more playing time, or children being more concerned about the score, flashy sports gear or jaw-dropping play to the extent that the core values, skills and enjoyment of sports are lost.
Written by Dr. Ross Flowers
Select a coach who is enthusiastic about teaching children how to attend to body awareness, the benefits of listening before talking, the amazement of successfully trying something tnew for the first time and the excitement of building a new skill.
When you choose a sport for your child, also choose a program that is grounded in an educational philosophy to teach the fundamentals of play. Select a coach who is enthusiastic about teaching children how to attend to body awareness, the benefits of listening before talking, the amazement of successfully trying something new for the first time and the excitement of building a new skill. Programs grounded in a fundamental teaching philosophy with coaches who enjoy teaching will most likely prove to be a positive first-time sport experience.
Dr. Ross Flowers, a father of three boys and Chula Vista resident, is the author of "Introducing Your Child to Sports: An Expert’s Answers to Parents’ Questions about Raising a Healthy, Balanced, Happy Athlete." To see a recent interview, visit www.cbs8.com/story/26561349/newbook-helps-raise-healthy-happy-athletes.
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 23
EDUCATION Otay Mesa Celebrates Montgomery High Modernization On Thursday, September 4, students, educators and community members gathered to celebrate the opening of a new gymnasium, administrative offices and classrooms at Montgomery High School in southern San Diego.
“
This looks now more like a college than it does a high school, and that’s a good thing.
”
- John McCann, Sweetwater Board of Trustees President and former teacher at Montgomery.
Students performed music and cheers at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which featured speeches by Principal Tom Rodrigo and Interim Superintendent Tim Glover. “This is your school,” Rodrigo told the crowd of students. “Take pride in it.” The $23-million project has added new administrative offices, a two-story gymnasium, additional classrooms, a renovated lunch court, landscaping, a protected school entrance and added security cameras throughout the campus. Construction began 12 months ago. The work was completed in July, when students returned to school. The Sweetwater Union High School District is California’s largest secondary district with nearly 41,000 students in grades 7 through 12.
24 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
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OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 25
CALENDAR
6
10 — 20 14
October
REBELS SOCCER ACADEMY BOYS & GIRLS AGES 4-10 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. @ Rohr Park, twice a week on Mondays & Wednesdays. This recreational clinic focuses on soccer skills and game fundamentals. For more info or to register, visit http://rebelssc.com/academyregistration/ or email gabe. rebelsacademy@gmail.com.
7
REBELS SOCCER ACADEMY BOYS & GIRLS AGES 4-10 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. @ Santa Venetia and Heritage Parks. Pick a location and attend twice a week on Tuesdays & Thursdays. This recreational clinic focuses on soccer skills and game fundamentals. For more info or to register, visit http:// rebelssc.com/academyregistration/ or email gabe. rebelsacademy@gmail.com.
8
RIDESHARE ROADSHOW @ 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. @ Chula Vista Center, 555 Broadway #1019. The iCommute event invites you to replace your solo drive with an alternative commute: carpool, bike, walk, take transit or vanpool to work. Stop by, sign up for a free iCommute account and enter to win a bike valued at $450 from Bicycle Warehouse. For more info, visit www.icommutesd.com. 26 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
Out & About
9
CHULA VISTA CHAMBER MIXER @ 5:30-7:30 p.m. Mix, mingle, and meet future business partners. $10 for members, $20 non-members. Hosted by First Bank, 2314 Proctor Valley Rd, Chula Vista. For more info or to RSVP, call (619) 420-6603 or email info@chulavistachamber.org.
11
BEAUTIFY CHULA
VISTA @ 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. @ Rice Canyon at Discovery Park and Harborside Park. This is a great opportunity for students to earn community service hours and for residents to lend a helping hand. All volunteers must register prior to the event. For more details and to register, visit beautifychulavista. org. For questions, email volunteers@cleansd.org or call (619) 291-0103.
NOVEMBER SAVE THE DATE(S)
20
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT SERIES @ 5:30-8 p.m. @ “The Hub” at Otay Ranch Town Center Library, 2015 Birch Road in Chula Vista. Join your neighbors to brainstorm an action plan for our city. For more info, call (619) 691-5170.
26
RACE OF THE TITANS 5K @ 7:30 a.m. @ Salt Creek Golf Course, 555 Hunte Parkway in Chula Vista. Help raise money for the Eastlake High School football team while enjoying the views of the community. Race will include t-shirts for all preregistered adults, awards for top three overall (M&F) and top three masters (M&F), chip timing and more! For more info and to register, visit www. eastlakeraceofthetitans.com or call Marina Field at (619) 397-8530.
17
5TH ANNUAL PARTY IN PINK™ ZUMBATHON @ 6-8 p.m. @ New Hope Community Church, 2720 Olympic Parkway in Chula Vista. Make moves in the fight against breast cancer. Optional potluck to follow. Tickets $10 donation/person. To purchase attire or tickets online, visit donnalabra.zumba.com. For questions, email donnalabra@ cox.net or call (619) 400-7456.
31 Happy
halloweeN
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
1
6K VETERANS FUN WALK @ 9 a.m. @ Veterans Home of California, 700 East Naples Court in Chula Vista. From equipment to services, every dollar raised helps our elder veterans during their twilight years. For more details and to register, visit cvveteranswalk.org.
8
PARADE FESTIVAL Parade Starts @ 10 a.m. @ Eastlake Parkway (Birch Rd and Kestrel) in Chula Vista. The festival begins @ 11 a.m. @ the Otay Ranch Town Center (Macy’s south lot). Join us as we salute our veterans at this free event. For more info, visit paradeband.org.
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
BUILDING
CHARACTER Character Development Month
FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
SOUTH BAY FAMILY YMCA SOUTH BAY FAMILY YMCA
EASTLAKE YMCA
5 ANNUAL
HALLOWEEN
TH
HALLOWEEN AT THE Y OCTOBER 30 4PM - 7:30PM 820 Paseo Ranchero Chula Vista 91910 619.421.9622 www.southbay.ymca.org
TEA PARTY OCTOBER 31 12PM - 1PM 2311 Boswell Road, Suite 7 Chula Vista 91914 619.421.9622 www.southbay.ymca.org
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 27
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
MARTIAL ARTS WARRIORS ACADEMY Grandmaster Gary Amen has practiced martial arts since age six. Skilled in both Korean and Japanese styles, his main disciplines are Tang Soo Do, Taekwondo, Muay Thai, Aikido, Judo and Jiu Jitsu. In the early 1980s, he tested in one of Chuck Norris’s first schools in Lakewood, California and later had the honor of training some of Norris’s instructors. In the mid-1980s, Grandmaster Amen began privately teaching military personnel in the Coronado and San Diego area. From 1990 to 2005, he trained U.S. Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, Green Berets, police officers and their families at the Naval Amphibious Base in Coronado. In 1998, still teaching at the Naval Amphibious Base, he officially founded Amen’s Military Tang Soo Do system. In 2005 he founded the Fighting Fit Mixed Martial Art System, designed as a non-military exercise program for adults. The goal was to get people into their best physical shape by concentrating on kicking and boxing from different martial arts styles while letting go of forms and combinations. From 2004 to 2013, Grandmaster Amen was an independent contractor for Chula Vista Parks & Recreation, teaching martial arts to people of all ages. Now he leads Martial Arts Warriors Academy. He and his staff focus on helping kids develop and use physical, mental and social skills. He stresses cardiovascular fitness, balance, self-control, dedication and responsibility. The Academy also specializes on helping people lose weight and stay fit. Grandmaster Amen explains, “We work with all students at all levels, and we do not subscribe to a cookie cutter training philosophy.” He is grateful to be able to pass the gift of martial arts to his students. It’s the same gift he was given—one of respect, humility, honor and loyalty. Martial Arts Warriors Academy, 1392 East Palomar Street, Ste. 403 in Chula Vista; Visit www.grandmasteramen.com or email MartialArtsWarriorsAcademy@yahoo.com.
28 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
PRESCOTT & LOWTHER INSURANCE Randy Prescott recalls exactly when he decided to become an insurance agent. One day in 1972, an agent was presenting insurance options to his parents. Randy thought, “I can do this.” He soon found himself working for New York Life specializing in life and health insurance. Later, Randy partnered with Ron Cox, a well-established agent in Chula Vista, and later worked with Wilson Insurance, one of Chula Vista’s oldest insurance agencies. Over time, Randy eventually acquired and managed the agency’s life and health insurance interests, and, by 1985, Randy changed the name to Prescott and Associates. He has also served as a board member for the San Diego Association of Health Underwriters. In 2007, Randy brought Jim Lowther on board. Early on, Randy knew Jim would eventually take over the business; in 2013, Jim became a partner in the agency. “The sole mission of Prescott and Lowther is to educate first and present the best insurance solution second,” says Jim, as he describes the philosophy of their business practice. As a matter of fact, Prescott and Lowther were the first in Chula Vista to hold free public forums on the “ins and outs” of Obamacare just three months after it passed in March 2010. Their goal is to simplify the complex details of Obamacare so it’s understandable. Consumer education and people’s rights are very important to Randy and Jim. Today Jim serves on the legislative committee for the San Diego Association of Health Underwriters. This ensures that the voices of the consumer are heard and that health insurance products are fair and accessible.
Prescott & Lowther, 345 F Street, Ste 210 in Chula Vista; Visit www.prescott-ins.com or call (619) 420-7600.
Our Local Business
On your Doorstep
OURHOMETOWNMAG.COM 29
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Stan & Brenda Canaris
f�om ��� fOO�B�LL fI�Ld �o ��� cL�ss�oom, s��� �����Is ��s Imp�c��d ��� Liv�s of o����s. For 35 years Stan “Coach” Canaris left his mark on countless students and athletes. It’s no surprise that he and his wife Brenda, both teachers, are remembered and loved by past students and parents alike. Stan says some credit goes to their mentor, Superintendent Joe Rindone, or “Papa Joe,” for those fortunate enough to work with him.
s��� ��d B���d� m�� By c���c� o�� d�y �� ��� S�� dI�go dow��ow� LIB���y. Stan was blind-sided by Brenda’s beauty and grace. Brenda was unaware that she had such an admirer. She only remembered a kind, handsome, young man who offered his library card to help her get muchneeded books for a last-minute mid-term. As fate would have it, their paths crossed numerous times. Eventually they started dating and married in August 1964. Being a math teacher, Stan is quick to point out that he and Brenda just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Stan is a San Diego State alumnus and served in the Army National Guard for nine years. In 1966 he started working at Sweetwater High School as a math teacher and helped coach the football team. In 1975 he transferred to Hilltop High School, where he taught photography and math and was 30 OUR HOMETOWN · OCTOBER 2014
also the head football coach. Education was in the family. When their second son was in first grade, Brenda returned to San Diego State to earn her Bachelor of Science degree. She joined Sweetwater Unified High School District as a home economics teacher, eventually finishing her career as ASB Director at Bonita Middle School. Stan continued his move toward administration by accepting a position as assistant principal at Mar Vista High School and then worked on the development and opening of Eastlake High School. Shortly after that he became principal of Eastlake High and stayed until he retired in 2001. A few years later, Eastlake High’s football stadium was dedicated in his name. But that’s not the only legacy Stan Canaris has left. He is also one of the original board members of the Eastlake Education Foundation, whose sole purpose is to provide Eastlake schools with classroom technology. He estimates that they have raised over $2 million since 1994. Stan and Brenda are the proud parents of two sons, Brian and David, who are both Eastlake residents. Brian is married to Jennifer, and they have two sons, Brandon and Matthew. David is married to wife Michelle, and they have two daughters, Bella and Lexie. There is no doubt that Stan and Brenda are living the dream retirement as loving grandparents and enjoying all the wonderful things our community has to offer.
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