- THE -
BIGGEST C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
FREE
OCTOBER 2017
LITTLE CIT Y
IN SAN DIEGO COUNT Y
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: PERFORMANCE PLUS BOARDS & COMMISSIONS: CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION + BOARD OF ETHICS
CONTENTS/
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EDITOR'S LETTER When I hear the word “development,” I need to put it into context because of the word’s many uses. Here are just a few:
04 BRAVO Announcements
• Film development. (I grew up with 35mm film and slides.)
06 NEWS
• Human growth, from childhood to adolescence to adulthood.
On your Doorstep
• Fundraising for nonprofits, i.e. developing donor relationships.
12 SCHOOL NEWS
• Projects, from concept through construction, or initiation through implementation. • Economic development, or improving the wellbeing of communities.
16 FEATURE
In this month’s feature story, economic development is an overarching theme. Chula Vista businesses and government have relentlessly pursued several development projects that will influence the future of Chula Vista from its west coast to the east: new hotels, homes, the Bayfront and Millenia.
Chula Vista:
This issue also features several nonprofit organizations that are hosting October events to develop “funds and friends.” Silent Voices, A Night to Remember Prom and Team River Runner are just a few organizations that invite you to learn more about what they do and to get involved. Finally, we have more School News stories than usual because our youth, and their educational institutions, are developing in unique, focused ways. Both CVESD and SUHSD recognize the importance of arts education and STEAM learning, and CVESD is launching is third Parent Academy to help parents and guardians be successful partners in their children’s education. This is an exciting time for the people of Chula Vista. Help develop yourself, your family, and your life into something that makes you and them happy, proud and fulfilled. "In order to carry a positive action we must develop here a positive vision." -Dalai Lama
—AMBER WEBER, editor
The Biggest Little City in San Diego County
21 ON TOPIC If You Build It, They Will Come
23 CALENDAR Out & About
24 BOARDS & COMMISSIONS Civil Service Commission and Board of Ethics
26 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT Performance Plus
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BRAVO
. . . great things happening in our community
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.
PUBLISHED BY
› To the WINNERS OF THE 2017 ORANGE CRATE DERBY held August 19 and 20 in Rancho Del Rey (pictured from left to right):
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
Group A (ages 7-8): 1) Spirit—Jordan Ashman, 2) Arrow of Light—Brogan Wright, 3) Midnight Cruiser—Quinn Niekrasz Group B (ages 9-10): 1) Road Rash—Isaac Garcia, 2) Slo Pok 1—Gieon Gooler, 3) Black Bullet— Wyatt Gray
AMBER WEBER, Editor
MELISSA MONROY, Design
Group C (ages 11-12): 1) The Flash—Richie Ramirez, 2) Shooting Star—Ricky Munoz, 3) Spitfire—Gabriel Fernandez › To the newly crowned MISS BONITA, SAMANTHA FAKHIMI, AND MISS CHULA VISTA, REBECKA IBARRA. Samantha and Rebecka are both seniors at Bonita Vista High School (BVHS). Samantha plans to earn an undergraduate degree in biology, and then attend medical school to specialize in dermatology. Her platform as Miss Bonita is education. In her spare time, Samantha enjoys singing, playing tennis and is part of her school's varsity tennis team.
Development Council’s 27th Annual Economic Summit on September 15. The award was presented to the Authority for the recent expansion and completion of the Richard A. Reynolds Groundwater Desalination Facility. This facility is an example of technical innovation and commitment to providing South Bay customers with a sustainable source of water at a lower cost than importing water. The state-of-the-art facility allows the Authority to provide its customers with a reliable, drought-proof and costeffective local water source. The facility was built in two phases in order to maintain affordability for Authority ratepayers. The Corky McMillin/Best of South County Award is presented to a local business that has a history of consistent excellence in products/ services, customer satisfaction and overall performance, and is judged by colleagues and customers.
› To DR. KAREN JANNEY, Superintendent of the Sweetwater Union High School District Advertising inquiries: (SUHSD), for being selected as one Michael Monaco at Pictured from top to bottom (counterof 10 distinguished SDSU alumni Sales@OurHometownMag.com. clockwise) Samantha Fakhimi with Rebecka at the 44th Monty Awards to be Ibarra; Ron Morrison, Tish Berge, Michael Editorial Contributions: held Sunday, Oct. 8 at 5:30 p.m. Garrod and Ron Mosher with the Corky Amber Weber at at SDSU's Don Powell Theatre. A McMillin/Best of South County Award. Editor@OurHometownMag.com. video of her accomplishments, including her recent service as Rebecka’s ambition is to attend Visit us online at superintendent of the SUHSD, Stanford University with the www.OurHometownMag.com. will be featured at the event. Visit goal of becoming a dermatologist. www.sdsualumni.org/montys for more info. During her reign, she plans to be an advocate against Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. domestic violence and abuse, and would also like to Reproduction in any form, in › To the partnership between the CHULA VISTA help empower young women to know their value and whole or part, without written ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THE CHULA potential. Rebecka is an accomplished vocalist, dancer permission is prohibited. OHTM VISTA POLICE DEPARTMENT (CVPD). District employees and member of her school's award-winning show choir, Inc. is not responsible for the raised approximately $1,000 in net proceeds and donations Sound Unlimited. Samantha and Rebecka succeed views of contributing writers and to support CVPD's Seventh Annual Shoe and Sock Drive. Chantal Branscomb and Caitlin Lange, who both served a assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions Earlier this month, District employees partnered with record 2.5 years. The celebration took place on September expressed are those of the El Tapatio Catering for an employee lunch where net 16 at the 45th annual Bonitafest. writers and not necessarily those proceeds went toward the Shoe and Sock Drive. Select of the Publisher or advertisers. students received their new socks and shoes on Saturday, › To the SWEETWATER AUTHORITY (AUTHORITY) OHTM Inc has the right to refuse September 16 at the Payless Shoe Source on Broadway in for being awarded with the Corky McMillin/Best of advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. at 4 (619) O U R840−7722. H OMETOWN • OC TOBESouth R 2 0 17 County Award at the South County Economic Chula Vista.
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NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Trick or Treat Both Sides of the Street
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 Tuesday, October 31 from 3 to 5 p.m. Children should dress in costume and be accompanied by an adult. Simply check in at the registration area at each shopping center, receive a treat bag, and then enjoy the treats that will be distributed by participating merchants. In addition to free treats, Sporty—the mascot from Sport Clips at Village Walk—will be on hand to welcome children to the event, and Premier Dental Care at EastLake Village Marketplace will host a clown along with free face painting and balloons. The two shopping centers are situated next to one another. EastLake Village Marketplace is located on the corner of Otay Lakes Road and EastLake Parkway in Chula Vista, and Village Walk at EastLake is located on EastLake Parkway and Miller Drive. For additional information, call (858) 695-2700. 6 OU R H OMETOWN • OC TOBER 2 0 17
Prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest with Free Teen Heart Screenings
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) occurs when a heart unexpectedly stops beating because of an undetected heart abnormality. To combat this syndrome, which is the #1 killer of student athletes, the Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation is hosting a free heart screening on Sunday, October 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Southwest High School (1685 Hollister St. in San Diego 92154). The Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation has screened over 23,000 youth, finding nearly 1 in 300 with a heart abnormality that unknowingly put them at risk. Participants ages 12 to 25 can register for the free screening at EPSaveALife.org, where they download a screening packet, complete it, and bring it to the event. “SCA is not a heart attack. It’s an abnormality in the heart’s electrical system that may be detected with a simple electrocardiogram (ECG). And even though the first symptom of SCA could be death, screenings are not a part of youth health checkups or pre-participation sports physicals, which is why Eric’s Foundation provides free heart screenings to area teens,” said Hector Paredes and Rhina ParedesGreeson, founders of Eric’s Foundation. The heart screening consists of a cardiac questionnaire completed by parent and student, an ECG, and, if indicated, a limited echocardiogram. It takes less than an hour and is painless and noninvasive, i.e. no needles or x-ray exposure. Screenings are
conducted by a 120-member volunteer team of San Diego cardiologists, nurses, techs and non-medical staff led by the foundation’s medical director, Dr. John Rogers, a Scripps cardiologist, who was recognized nationally by Parent Heart Watch as a 2014 Hero for Young Hearts. Because SCA is fatal in 92% of cases if not treated within minutes, the screening also features demonstrations of how to use hands-only CPR and an automated external defibrillation, the only two life-saving measures once SCA strikes. SCA awareness is gaining ground statewide. Governor Brown signed the Eric Paredes Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Act into law last September which expands student athlete safety standards to include SCA protocol. The legislation, which was sponsored by Assemblyman Brian Maienschein, now requires student athletes to acknowledge annually that they received a fact sheet on cardiac arrest warning signs starting July 1, 2017. It also requires a coach or someone in a similar position to remove a student who passes out or faints during athletic activity.
Founded to honor the Steele Canyon High School teen who lost his life to SCA at age 15 in 2009, Eric's Foundation strives to educate parents, educators, physicians and elected officials on the prevalence of SCA among teens and the importance of standardizing ECGs as part of their regular health care. For more information, visit EPSaveALife.org.
On your Doorstep
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On your Doorstep
Kayak, Drink Beer and Support Veterans at Pints and Paddles for a Cause By Brooke Brown It was September 24, 2006 in Ramadi, the hotbed of the Iraqi War where Private First Class Robert Brown and his squad were tracking a mortar team that had been targeting their compound. During the mission his squad came under fire. All but PFC Brown made it out untouched. Brown took multiple rounds to his right side. Going into shock, Brown lost consciousness. After the firefight, an attempt to recover PFC Brown was made. Although retrieved, Brown quickly lost his hold on life, and he flat lined. Medics were not able to revive PFC Brown and pronounced him dead. In haste to provide medical attention to others who had been hit in the recovery attempt, Brown’s body was removed from the medical table and dropped. It was the impact with the ground that restarted his heart. PFC Brown was medevacked to the U.S. where he was admitted to Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Brown had suffered multiple rounds to his right hip, severing his sciatic nerve and leaving him with no use of his lower leg. The medical team thought they could save Brown’s leg and attempted multiple surgeries for the next year and a half. During this time, Brown found himself addicted to pain killers, struggled with depression, and drowned his emotional pain in alcohol. One day, Brown was in the rehab room doing his exercises. On this day, his life changed again. David Robey of Team River Runner (TRR) visited the recovering service members, causally asking, “Anyone who wants to learn to kayak, come with me.” Brown immediately said yes. Brown quickly took to kayaking and participated in a 17-day trip near the Grand Canyon. It was on this trip that Brown realized that he did not have to be a victim of his injuries and chose instead to embrace the situation. Retuning to Walter Reed, Brown had his leg amputated below the knee and decided to return to an active lifestyle. Proving to himself and the world, Brown participated in the 2009 World Kayak
8 OU R H OMETOWN • OC TOB E R 2 0 17
On your Doorstep
EastLake Church to Host Free Community Trunk-or-Treat Event
Championships, taking home a bronze medal. Currently, SSG Brown runs track for the Army and has his sights set on the 2020 Paralympic Games in Japan. SSG Brown could not have found the courage in himself if he had not made the choice to learn to kayak. It was on that day that he was given the opportunity to embrace his injury and thrive. Team River Runner is proud to offer these kinds of opportunities to recovering service members and veterans.
Join TRR in a FUNdraiser, Pints and Paddles for a Cause, on October 8 at Bonita Cove in Mission Bay. Khaotic Kayak Races will begin at 8 a.m. During the races, enjoy beer from Ninkasi Brewery, bid on auction items and win raffle prizes! All proceeds go to TRR San Diego. Tickets are $85 for a team of three or $30 for singles. Visit www.pintsandpaddles. org for more info.
EastLake Church will host a free community Trunk-orTreat event at its Chula Vista location on Friday, October 27 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The event will include more than 50 vehicles adorned with Halloween themed décor and music. Children will have the opportunity to trick or treat in a safe environment where car trunks will be filled with candy. “We wanted to host an event that would bring the community together to build momentum for a holiday that kids look forward to,” said Ambar Jaime, children’s ministry director. “Kids enjoy this event because they get to wear their costumes and get candy and treats before Halloween.” Prizes will be given to the most creatively decorated trunks. To register for the event, visit the EastLake Church Facebook page (@eastlakechurch) and search under the Events section.
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On your Doorstep
Join us as we combine Bingo-like games with designer purses to create an evening of fun and fabulous prizes! Happy Hour atmosphere. Wear your most fashion forward outfit to receive a complimentary opportunity drawing ticket! All proceeds benefit the Chula Vista Police Activities League (CV PAL) Early Bird Entry Fee $40 before 10/07/2017 or $50 after Admission Includes: 2 drink coupons, light food fare, fa and 1 Bingo card per regular game of play (approx 10 games)
Sat Oct 21, 2017 4:30 pm* - 8 pm Montevalle Recreation Center, 840 Duncan Ranch Rd, CV 91914
Purchase tickets online at: https://squareup.com/store/cvpal or from any CV PAL board member
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On your Doorstep
Life is Beautiful Silent Voices has been helping pregnant and parenting women find the help and support they need to be successful mothers since 1984. Hundreds of babies have been born during those 33 years, and every single one of them has been a reminder that “life is beautiful” and worth protecting. At a recent event, Silent Voices had the opportunity to catch up with one of its very first clients; she showed the staff pictures of her daughters and her grandson. It was an awesome reminder that Silent Voices is not just saving one child—it’s saving generations of children. The staff doesn’t know what all babies have become, but they do know that one is a research scientist, several have become nurses and teachers, and all are making an impact on the world. Silent Voices offers many services. In addition to its program for moms, it has a mentoring program for fathers and curriculum for step-parenting and co-parenting. The team works with moms and dads who have been court ordered into parenting classes and also offers postabortion healing, recovery groups, and natural family planning classes. To help continue providing these services, Silent Voices will hold its annual banquet on Friday, October 20 at Clairemont Emmanuel Baptist Church. The funds raised will be used to purchase a mobile medical unit from Save the Storks. This van will enable Silent Voices to provide basic medical services, including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds and eventually STI testing. The banquet will be catered by Ranch Events with a scrumptious menu. The Comedian Nazareth will be the guest speaker, who is known to be hilarious! Guests may participate in a raffle and silent auction, and the opportunity to donate services or products is still open. Consider a gift basket, gift cards, or something creative. If you aren’t able to attend the banquet but would like to support Silent Voices, please consider volunteering. The organization is in particular need of a doctor to serve as Medical Director, a Registered Nurse to serve as Nurse Manager, other nurses to volunteer on the van, and an RDMS.
For more information about the banquet or Silent Voices, email info@ silentvoices.org, call (619) 422-0757, or go to www.silentvoices.org.
Golf Tournament, Dinner and Silent Auction to Support Students with Special Needs On October 20, join A Night to Remember Prom organizers at the 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament, Dinner and Silent Auction, which will help offset the cost of prom for students with special needs. Although the prom is free for participants, it costs approximately $40,000 to produce. For most teenagers, prom is one of the most memorable nights of their lives. Yet, students with special needs like Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and autism are often not included in the celebration. A Night to Remember Prom gives students with special needs a free prom experience designed just for them. This first-class prom is a night of over-the-top celebration where the students are honored, loved and accepted by their peers. Student volunteers from dozens of local schools are paired with “honored guests” and serve as hosts for the evening, making sure the guests are the stars. This event helps break down stereotypes and brings students together, regardless of their abilities. Over the past seven years, over 4,700 area students have attended this event. A Night to Remember Prom anticipates another 800+ students from 70 area schools in April 2018. Each student is truly an honored guest and is provided with a prom dress or tuxedo, professional hair styling and make-up, a corsage or boutonniere, a tiara and jewelry, a ride in a limousine and a walk down the red carpet while photographed and cheered by paparazzi—at no cost to the student or family. The prom is a full night of dinner, dancing and entertainment. Everyone can get involved at the October 20 event. Spending a fun day on the links, which includes beer tasting plus fun and games along the course, helps these special students get a night they would likely never experience. If you are not a golfer, you can still participate by attending the dinner and silent auction at 5 p.m. Cost is only $25 per person. Business sponsorships for the golf tournament are still available, and silent auction items are still being sought. A huge thank you to dinner sponsor ServiceMaster Absolute for its generous support and to Jen Rierson of Palisade Realty for generously supporting the margarita bar!
Register online at www.aNighttoRememberProm.com/golf. For questions, contact Erica Lawson at (858) 405-4172 or email golf@aNighttoRememberProm.com. Everyone involved with prom, including the founder/directors, are volunteers. 100% of all proceeds are used to offset the cost of the prom. The Arc of San Diego has partnered with A Night to Remember Prom to provide financial accountability and maintain 501(c)(3) charitable status, tax ID #95-1863913. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
SCHOOL
/ News
Why Art? A New Initiative Shines a Light on the Benefits of Arts Education in Every School By Lauren Shelton, Coordinator of Visual and Performing Arts, Chula Vista Elementary School District
Something exciting is happening in the Chula Vista Elementary School District in the arts. The arts have finally returned to each school in the district. All 29,000 students now participate in a well-rounded education that includes the arts. What does this mean? It means that the opportunities are endless! So far, over 80 visual and performing arts (VAPA) teachers have been hired in the district to teach sequential standards-based arts instruction. Walking onto any campus in the district, there is music in the air, art on the wall, a dance in a studio, or a stage to give the performance of a lifetime. This arts renaissance is the result of multiple partnerships and district leadership. One of these partners is a new initiative through California State University, San Marcos funded by the Stuart Foundation. Art=Opportunity is an arts literacy initiative that supports students receiving a strong arts education focusing on promoting the research behind the many benefits that an arts-rich life provides. Art=Opp has been a champion in the district to provide artistically rich experiences for parents, teachers, and students. Understanding how the arts cultivate tomorrow’s leaders, Art=Opp in collaboration with the district VAPA department, invited parents to pilot a new bilingual professional development series, Reading through the Arts. Both English and Spanish speaking parents were empowered to learn art integration strategies, as well as how to use visual art as text in the books that their children were reading at home and at school. Parents and their children created tableaux, or frozen pictures, from scenes in books and told the story in their own words. They collaborated with other families to create short scenes, acted out famous artwork and dove deeper into their meaning as they analyzed their artistic elements. They wrote stories and danced through their scenes to their own music. Parents and children were smiling as they all walked away with their own book provided by the Stuart Foundation. Art=Opp has also brought in artists and authors to provide VIP access to their work and process. During their literacy sleepover, students at Salt Creek Elementary School had the honor to hear 12 OU R HOMETOWN • OC TO B E R 2 0 17
Sara Pennypacker read selections from her New York Times best-selling novel, Pax. After her reading, she spent time speaking to the students about the creative process of being an author and what it takes to write a novel. She fielded questions from the enthralled audience and signed books for each school’s library. As part of the same Literary Residency initiative, Caldecott award-winning illustrator and illustrator of Pax, Jon Klassen spent an afternoon at The New Children’s Museum in downtown San Diego with visual art teachers from all over the county. He walked the art teachers through his process of illustrating his own books. Art=Opportunity provides another layer of advocacy that helps the community see what really can happen when students participate in the arts. Our teachers see the benefits on a daily basis in their classrooms. Students are transformed and want to come to school. Not only does attendance increase, but studies have also shown that students who participate in the arts score higher in reading and math. They are given a space where they can feel successful, which will transfer into their general education classrooms. We are preparing our children for jobs that we don’t even know will exist yet. They need a space to innovate, create, collaborate, and learn how to persevere. The arts provide that much needed environment and space for the students. The arts teach children how to take risks, think outside the box, be flexible, and truly innovate. Companies such as Boeing, Qualcomm, and ViaSat seek out employees who have an arts background because they are able to work with diverse groups of people, have a higher leadership capacity, and are highly motivated. The Chula Vista Elementary School District is preparing our students for a future we don’t know, but they will help create. We understand the value of the arts in creating human beings, not human doers. We understand that Art=Opportunity. To learn more go to http://www.csusm.edu/artopp/.
School News
Registration Opens for Third Annual CVESD Parent Academy
The Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD), the largest elementary school district in California with more than 29,500 students, announced it is holding its Third Annual Parent Academy on Saturday, October 14. Registration is now open at www. cvesdparentacademy.com.
The Parent Academy directly engages parents in their children’s education and prepares them to provide the support needed for students to be more successful in school. The academy has been likened to “professional development for parents.” Educators know that parents have a huge impact in their children’s lives and are, in fact, their children’s first and most important teachers. “We take great pride in developing the whole child,” said Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D. “Our theme for this school year is ‘Enlighten the Human Spirit through Relationships.’ Relationships matter. That is among the reasons our District has focused efforts to strengthen relationships with our parents, and to build strong collaborative
partnerships that enhance learning outcomes for the whole family.” Parent Academy workshops include the areas of math, reading and writing, dual language immersion, technology, wellness, antibullying, GATE, the arts and more. The Parent Academy will take place at Anne and William Hedenkamp Elementary School, which is located at 930 East Palomar in Chula Vista. Check in begins at 7:30 a.m.; the event ends at 12 p.m. This year, the children’s choirs of Casillas and Hilltop Drive schools are scheduled to perform at the event. For more information, contact the Language Development and Instruction Services and Support at (619) 425-9600, x. 1520.
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/ News
Sweetwater District Hosts 2nd Annual Solar Car Sprint Competition
Building solar and battery powered cars requires skills in both math and science. Ultimately, it’s no easy task. But that wasn’t a problem for close to 250 Sweetwater District middle school students who recently participated in the 2nd Annual Solar Car Sprint Competition. “These kids are amazing,” said Leo Ulloa, STEAM Programs Coordinator for the Sweetwater District. “The students really enjoyed themselves and developed teamwork and problem solving abilities, while gaining hands-on STEAM skills and tapping into their competitive nature.” According to Ulloa, this event challenges students to use scientific know-how, creative thinking, experimentation and teamwork. Sweetwater District’s Solar Sprint Competition featured race car entries from 59 teams from all middle schools in the district. The event generated enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM), all while improving students' understanding of scientific concepts and renewable energy technologies. A car race was the culmination of the students’ work. During the competition, students raced their solar powered inventions against other teams for the fastest (speed), most reliable (innovation), and attractive (craftsmanship) car titles. The event, hosted by National City Middle School, was designed to support the instruction of STEAM in categories such as alternative fuels, engineering design and aerodynamics. Nicholas Segura, Sweetwater District Board of Trustees member and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 569 provided all of the solar kits, t-shirts for students and hoodies for the winning teams. “This event was a collaborative effort in support of the Sweetwater District and STEAM,” said Segura. “Each student and team took ownership of their car and [were] ultimately responsible for the outcome. The students who participated did a wonderful job.” Winners of the event include Bonita Vista Middle (speed), Granger Junior High (innovation) and Granger Junior High (craftsmanship). Judges included students from STEAM programs at Sweetwater High School, and trophies were designed by the school’s laser machine. “This event encouraged young participants to consider technical careers at an early age,” said Ulloa. “Everyone involved is looking forward to next year!” 14 OU R HOMETOWN • OC TO B E R 2 0 17
School News
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On your Doorstep
CHULA VISTA: BIGGEST LITTLE CITY
IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY We know it’s true—Chula Vista is a great place to live and work. But Chula Vista is changing. More areas, in both the east and west, are being developed in order to provide more quality spaces to live, work, eat, play and rest. Several will have long-reaching and long-lasting effects in our community: Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, the Bayfront, Village of Escaya and Millenia. Here’s a snapshot of where they are today, and what you can expect to see in the future. HAMPTON INN AND HOMEWOOD SUITES It is hard to believe that with a population of over 260,000 residents, Chula Vista is a city with very few hotels, and the ones within the city are nonexistent to most respectable travelers. All this is about to change for Chula Vista. On the morning of August 28, Councilmember John McCann joined developers and their teams to break ground on the future site of Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites in Eastlake. The new hotel will be one of three new hotels to be built in Chula Vista’s eastside as the city experiences a surge in commercial investment. Chula Vista District One Councilmember John McCann said at the groundbreaking, “We are excited to see a quality hotel be built here in Chula Vista. This will bring significant revenue to the City with TOT tax and help efforts to fund public safety including police and fire.” The 205-room hotel is expected to be built in the first quarter of 2019 and will earn an estimated $700,000 in Transit Occupancy Tax (TOT) plus an estimated $1 million in property tax. The hotel will bring 65 to 70 jobs to the city as well. 16 OU R HOMETOWN • OC TO B E R 2 0 17
One of the reasons there has been a sudden surge in hotel development in East Chula Vista has to do with the city’s recent acquisition of the former U.S. Olympic Training Center, now known as the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center. Chula Vista has been working with Point Loma Trust to operate the facility for profit. One of the hindrances of training at the CVTC is that athletes and their teams have nowhere nearby to stay during their training.
and convention center, park and trail settings, and waterfront improvements. The Master Plan includes approximately 1,450 hotel rooms, 275,000 usable square feet of convention and meeting space, associated retail and resort-style amenities, and over 200 acres of parks, ecological buffers, and open space. It will transform the Chula Vista waterfront into an exciting destination for residents of the South Bay and San Diego County, as well as for visitors from around the globe.
“Rather than driving all the way to Mission Valley or downtown San Diego, athletes, their families, and their training teams can make a short commute and stay in Chula Vista,” said Councilmember McCann, “They will eat at our local restaurants and shop at our stores. This is definitely a win for Chula Vista.”
The project will also catalyze development in the surrounding area and have significant economic impact, both during construction and after completion. A total countywide economic impact of $1.2 billion is expected to be generated over the construction period. This will result in the creation of nearly 3,100 jobs (both direct and indirect). Once built, the ongoing economic impact to the region is projected to be $390 million per year with the creation of nearly 3,700 permanent jobs.
THE BAYFRONT Additionally, a major milestone has been reached in the exclusive negotiations process for the resort hotel and convention center planned for the Chula Vista bayfront. During a special joint meeting on Tuesday, June 20, the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners and the Chula Vista City Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing a non-binding letter of intent (LOI) with RIDA Chula Vista, LLC. The LOI sets the stage for a future deal by defining the key economic terms and financing for the project. The Port, the City and RIDA will now continue exclusive negotiations and due diligence as they work toward formal agreements. On August 30, a public forum was held to reveal development plans. After more than two decades of planning and public outreach, Chula Vista civic leaders presented the Bayfront Master Plan and unveiled a virtual tour and conceptual renderings of the planned resort hotel
“The Chula Vista Bayfront project is a new model for development and will be a significant achievement in job creation and economic prosperity for the region,” said Commissioner Ann Moore, Board of Port Commissioners, Port of San Diego. “Through innovative and collaborative partnerships, we are making the impossible possible.” In parallel with the exclusive negotiations between the Port, the City and RIDA, RIDA has been in its own negotiations with Gaylord Hotels to manage and operate the future resort hotel and convention center. As a Gaylord Hotel, the Chula Vista resort hotel and convention center will ensure the prosperity of the local economy and will be a treasured destination, providing unique opportunities to captivate visitors and residents to ensure everyone is welcome, connected and inspired.
THE BIGGEST LITTLE CITY IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY
“We'd like to thank the Port commissioners and City officials along with their respective staffs for their tireless commitment to this process and our project,” said Luke Charlton, Chief Operating Officer, RIDA Development Corporation. “We have a lot of work to do to bring this to fruition, but the spirit of cooperation and partnership shown by these institutions gives us incredible confidence in the future of the bayfront.”
The Chula Vista resort hotel and convention center project, which includes public infrastructure and private development, is projected to cost approximately $1 billion. Per the terms of the LOI, the Port and the City will contribute $281 million, to be financed by existing and projected revenue streams and bonds. Port staff anticipates presenting the definitive agreement to the Board and City Council for approval later this year. VILLAGE OF ESCAYA New construction can already be found in the Village of Escaya in Otay Ranch, which recently unveiled 21 models of single-family, detached homes. The community has enjoyed unprecedented popularity since its grand opening in June with hundreds of families touring the models every week. To date, nearly 150 homes by Brookfield Residential, CalAtlantic Homes and Shea Homes have been contracted. HomeFed Corporation, the master developer of the award-winning North County community of San Elijo Hills, is also the master developer of the Village of Escaya. Approved plans call for the development of a 450-acre walkable village, enlivened by a 30,000-square-foot Village Center, a beautifully equipped eight-acre community park, a new elementary school, off-leash dog park and a private resort-style swim club with a fitness center for residents. “Surrounded by miles of open space in the Otay River valley and a defined village boundary, Escaya is designed as an intimate enclave with paths and paseos connecting everything in the neighborhoods,” said Halé Richardson, director of marketing for HomeFed Corporation.
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THE BIGGEST LITTLE CITY IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY
The Village of Escaya will feature a variety of two-story floorplans for a range of buyers. Floorplans for the singlefamily detached homes range from approximately 1,833 to 3,704 square feet. Architectural highlights include spacious great rooms that gracefully connect to the outdoors, stunning California rooms, gourmet kitchens and beautifully appointed master suites. Homes range in price from the low $500,000s to the $700,000s.
Families at Escaya will have access to high performing schools including Wolf Canyon Elementary, Rancho Del Rey Middle School and Otay Ranch High School. The community is located off Main Street and Heritage Road in Chula Vista. For information, visit www. EscayaLife.com.
MILLENIA Finally, Millenia, the future City Center for South San Diego, is a 210-acre sustainable, pedestrian-friendly, transit-oriented, urbanstyle community, now under construction. Designated a SANDAG Smart Growth Urban Center and certified under the LEED Neighborhood Development program, Millenia is planned for up to 3,000 multifamily residences, 2 million square feet of Class A office space on 30 acres, 1.5 million square feet of retail, hospitality, civic and mixed-use projects, six themed urban parks and a variety of tree-lined promenades, casual gathering places, bikeways and plazas. Population at build out will be approximately 7,500. The multi-billion-dollar development is estimated to take 20 years to complete. On August 15, Sudberry Properties and Ayres Hotels broke ground on Millenia Commons, a 131,800-square-foot lifestyle destination center and a 135-guestroom boutique hotel, respectively. Both projects are located along Millenia Avenue, south of Birch Road at the gateway to Millenia. Millenia Commons is the primary retail component and will include more than 100 retailers, restaurants and services. It will feature contemporary urban design with an emphasis on walkability and outdoor gathering spaces to create a
strong sense of place. The 12.5-acre lifestyle center is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2018. The Ayres Hotel, which is scheduled to open in approximately one year, is Ayres Hotels’ second hotel in San Diego County. Amenities include urban edge design and décor coupled with genuine comforts and personalized service, full bars in the lobby and outdoor courtyard, state-of-the-art fitness center, three conference rooms and a boardroom. In keeping with the hotel’s location, just 2.5 miles from the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, the lobby will feature a projection celebrating unforgettable Olympic moments. “Ayres Hotels is excited to become a part of the dynamic Millenia master plan,” said Bruce D’Eliscu, principal, Ayres Hotels of Southern California. “Ayres Hotels’ fresh urban perspective is a perfect complement to Millenia’s future as the strategic hub of the Cali Baja Bi-National Mega-Region.” The exceedingly walkable community of Millenia is designed to offer homes, shopping, dining and employment opportunities all connected by tree-lined promenades, parks, bikeways and plazas. In fact, with the variety of detached homes, condos, penthouses, and townhomes priced from the $300,000s, Millenia is becoming the top choice for home shoppers looking for a chic, urban-centric, style-conscious address. Shea Homes San Diego recently unveiled detached residences at Element and row homes at Z. Element features 70 homes, ranging from 1,775 to 2,248 square feet, with three to four bedrooms, two-and-a-half to threeand-a-half baths, and a two-car, side-by-side garage. Z features 106 attached homes ranging from 1,288 to 1,475 square feet with two to three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, and a two-car, side-by-side garage. Millenia is also home to three neighborhoods offered by Meridian Communities: Evo, Metro and Trio, which range from 1,288 to 1,958 square feet and offer a wide variety of designs, including single- and multi-level condos, triplexes with rear yards, twostory townhomes and an elevator flat. The homes at Millenia are well represented in the upcoming Building Industry Association’s Icon Awards that honor the best in architecture and interior design in San Diego County. In fact, Millenia’s five neighborhoods are finalists in 14 categories, including Attached Community of the Year.
For information on all Millenia has to offer, stop by the Millenia Discovery Center at 2003 Artisan Way, Suite A, at the corner of Orion Boulevard in Chula Vista or visit MilleniaSD.com. 18 O U R HOMETOWN • OC TOB E R 2 0 17
THE BIGGEST LITTLE CITY IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY
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On your Doorstep
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ON TOPIC If You Build It, They Will Come By Tina Matthias, Volunteer and Programs Manager, Living Coast Discovery Center
On August 5, the Living Coast Discovery Center (LCDC) held its annual Farm to Bay fundraiser. It was another successful event, as told by several hundred guests heading out on the LCDC Shuttle as the sun set over Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and San Diego Bay. When I arrived home from the fundraiser, exhausted with tired feet, I watched a fitting movie, Field of Dreams. Now, most of us have seen this movie many times over the last three decades, but this time it had me thinking of the Center and this year’s 30th anniversary. How insightful it was for Dr. Neudecker and Supervisor Greg Cox to have the foresight of “if you build it, they will come” to build the Nature Interpretive Center. Thirty years ago, the museum was built on a “marsh, swamp, wetland” as people called it. The center was not home to glamorous sea creatures from oceans around the world or large, magnificent wildlife from the savannas of Africa, but we did have innkeeper worms, snapping shrimp, fiddler crabs, a small shark and ray petting pool, and a few shore birds. Dr. Neudecker and Supervisor Cox saw the need to educate and protect our local habitats. The word “watershed” was never brought up throughout my school years, but now the protection of local watersheds and importance of our local wetlands and marshes are taught throughout the county. The Living Coast Discovery Center, formerly known as the Chula Vista Nature Center, is the reason why children over the last 30 years have an understanding and the knowledge to protect our local resources and habitats. Our founding fathers had their “dream,” and over 30 years, the community support did “come,” as seen by the amazing people I talked with at the Farm to Bay fundraiser. Rewards of the last 30 years are seen in local teachers, now retired and volunteering at the LCDC, who yearly brought their students to the center. LCDC has inspired a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientist and environmental lawyers who were once volunteers during their youth. Through the 22,000+ school children visiting the center annually, local outreaches and volunteer clean-ups, our community now understands the importance of conservation and the protection of our local watersheds, wetlands and coastal habitats. All this because Dr. Neudecker and Supervisor Cox believed “if you build it, they will come!” OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
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OUT & ABOUT
OCTOBER A PIECE OF MY HEART @ Onstage Playhouse, 291 3rd Avenue in Chula Vista. This is the true story of six courageous American women sent to Vietnam and their struggle to make sense of a war that irrevocably changed them. The show runs on Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through October 14. All tickets are $20-$22. Call (619) 422-RSVP (7787) or visit www. onstageplayhouse.com. COMMUNITY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EVENT @ 5 – 8:30 p.m. @ 1590 E. H St. in Chula Vista. Learn how to be prepared for an emergency before one happens.
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TROLLEY DANCES @ 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ the Bayfront E. St. Trolley Station at 750 E. St. in Chula Vista. Take a twohour guided tour from the MTS Blue Line from Chula Vista to the Central Library and see dances in unexpected places. Tours begin at 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets range from $15-$40. For more information, visit sandiegodancetheater. ticketleap.com.
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PINTS AND PADDLES FOR A CAUSE @ 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ Bonita Cove in Mission Bay, 1100 W. Mission Bay Drive in San Diego. Teams of three can kayak and drink a beer for $85, $30 for singles. The event benefits Team River Runner, which helps active duty and veteran service members heal through kayaking. Visit pintsandpaddles.org for more info.
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FILM FORUM @ 5:30 – 8 p.m. at Chula Vista Civic Center Auditorium, 365 F St. in Chula Vista. Enjoy a mini concert featuring Avant Garde Music Company, followed by a film screening of "Hunt for the Wilderpeople" at 6 p.m. This free, all-ages event is sponsored by the Friends of the Chula Vista Library.
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MARINE CORPS LEAGUE DETACHMENT 1207 MEETING @ 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. @ Bldg. F, Veteran’s Home, 700 E. Naples Court in Chula Vista. Join former and retired Marines, Navy, Army and Air Force veterans. Call (619) 2279535 for info.
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MARIACHI OKTOBERFIESTA @ 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. @ Salt Creek Recreation Center, 2710 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. Enjoy a funfilled fusion of international food, music and culture with live mariachi and folklorico performances. Sample delicious bites, tequila, beer and wine from participating vendors. Tickets $50. Purchase online at http://bit.ly/ Oktoberfiesta2017. 21+ event.
CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT, DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION @ Salt Creek Golf Club, 525 Hunte Pkwy in Chula Vista. Cost is $125 for the day, or just $25 for dinner only. This event supports A Night to Remember Prom, benefiting students with special needs. Visit www. aNighttoRememberProm.com/ golf for more info.
"WISE USE OF MEDICATION" LUNCH & LEARN @ 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ St. Paul's Plaza, 1420 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Speakers include Thyrza S. Knox, RN from Beyond the Sky Solutions. To RSVP, call Mary Johnson at (619) 5910600 or email mjohnson@ stpaulseniors.org.
SILENT VOICES ANNUAL BANQUET @ 6 - 9 p.m. @ Clairemont Emmanuel Baptist Church, 2610 Galveston St. in San Diego. There is no charge to attend the banquet but there will be an opportunity to give. Proceeds will go toward the purchase of a Mobile Medical Unit. Contact info@silentvoices. org for details.
TRUNK OR TREAT @ 6 - 8:30 p.m. @ EastLake Church, 2355 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. Children may come in costume and receive free candy.
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FREE HEART SCREENING @ 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. @ Southwest High School, 1685 Hollister St. in San Diego. In partnership with volunteer cardiologists and a medical team, Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation will be providing this free event, open to the public, to students attending school in San Diego County (ages 12-25). To register, please visit: https:// epsavealife.org/register/.
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FAME: FIRST AID, UTILITY METERS AND FIRE EXTINGUISHER CLASS @ 6 - 8 p.m. @ Fire Station 4, 850 Paseo Ranchero in Chula Vista. Residents of Chula Vista have an opportunity to attend a free training offered by the City’s Fire Department Fire Safe Council and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Learn how to safely turn off a gas meter, how to administer basic first aid, how to use a fire extinguisher and receive one for free! Space is limited. To register, visit http:// bit.ly/cert-fame.
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CHULA VISTA WOMAN’S CLUB OPEN HOUSE @ 1:30 – 4:00 p.m. @ 357 G Street in Chula Vista. Learn more about this community organization while enjoying light refreshments and conversation.
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LAS COMADRES BOOK CLUB @ 6 – 7 p.m. @ South Chula Vista Library, 389 Orange Avenue in Chula Vista. Las Comadres & Friends, partnering with Association of American Publishers, connects Latinas around the world through our love for literature. We invite you to join us as we explore the writings and latest materials from new and upcoming Latino authors. For dates, times, and book information, please call the library at (619) 585-5755, x.92 or e-mail Jackie at jmacias@ chulavistaca.gov.
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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GOLF TOURNAMENT @ 12 p.m. Shotgun start @ Salt Creek Golf Club, 525 Hunte Pkwy in Chula Vista. $450 for foursome, $125 for individuals. Includes green fee, cart, range balls, boxed lunch and awards banquet. Email info@chulavistachamber.org for details.
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FREE TRICK OR TREAT @ 3 - 5 p.m. @ Eastlake Village Marketplace, 2225 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. Free treats for all children 12 and under dressed in costume and accompanied by an adult. Pick up your free trick-or-treat bag located at the registration table by Target. Visit www. ShopVillageWalk.com for more info.
SAVE THE DATE NOV 04 SOUTH BAY PUMPKIN SMASH GAME OF THROWS @ 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Salt Creek Golf Club, 525 Hunte Parkway in Chula Vista. Do you have what it takes? Build a mechanical device, smash pumpkins and win cash prizes. Participants range from 3rd to 12th grade. Schools, scouts, clubs, etc. are all welcome. For details, rules and registration, visit www.LabRats.org.
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BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
BOARD OF ETHICS
The Civil Service Commission works with the Human Resources Department to hold public hearings and provide recommendations to the City Council regarding the adoption, amendment, or repeal of civil service rules and regulations not in conflict with the City Charter; hear appeals of permanent employees in the classified service relative to suspension, demotion or dismissal; may investigate the administration of personnel and report findings to the City Manager and City Council; and assist in maintaining proper employer-employee relations.
The Board of Ethics advises and makes recommendations to the City Council on all matters relating to potential unethical conduct by City officials including Mayor and Councilmembers, City Manager, and other designated officials. The Board makes necessary and appropriate recommendations to the City Council for the implementation of the Code of Ethics. The Board works with the City Attorney's Office; receives and initiates complaints of violations of the City's Code of Ethics; hears and investigates violations and transmits findings to the appropriate authority or City officer; renders advisory opinions or interpretations with respect to applications of the Code; as well as proposes revisions to the Code to ensure its continuing pertinence and effectiveness.
Composed of five community members, two members are nominated by election of the employees in the Classified Service, two members are appointed by the City Council directly, and the fifth member is nominated by the four appointed Commissioners. The current commissioners have a diverse background and highly encourage individuals with a variety of experience to apply for vacancies when they occur. Chair William Gersten is a deputy city attorney for the City of San Diego; Co-Chair Felicia Starr is an emergency room secretary with Scripps Mercy Chula Vista; Commissioner Juan Gonzales is a retired police officer and current IRS enrolled agent; Commissioner Jennifer Carbuccia is general counsel for the Sweetwater Union High School District; and Cory Fish is human resources director for St. Paul’s Senior Services.
Regular meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at 5:15 p.m. at City Hall. 24 O U R HOMETOWN • OC TOB E R 2 0 17
This past year, the board worked in conjunction with the City Attorney’s Office to develop and prepare an ordinance on lobbyist registration and reporting for Council consideration. They also formed an ad hoc committee for the proposed lobbying ordinance. In addition, the Board reviewed two complaints and appropriately rendered its opinion regarding those matters.
Regular meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:15 p.m. in Conference Room C-101 located in Building A in City Hall. The establishment of the Code of Ethics and functions of the Board of Ethics is in the Municipal Code are at www.chulavistaca.gov/municode.
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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
Performance Plus
You’ve heard the saying “mother knows best.” Well in the case of Dr. Todd Sparks, this also extends to his career as a physical therapist. Dr. Todd is a second generation physical therapist; his mom spent 37 years in the profession. The desire to help others was passed down not only from his mother, but also from his father, who recently retired after 50 years of service as a volunteer firefighter. Performance Plus Physical Therapy (PPPT) is Chula Vista’s newest neighborhood outpatient physical therapy facility committed to providing exceptional physical therapy care to the South Bay. From initial evaluation to discharge, the team works to make your entire experience a success. Each patient is evaluated and treated as an individual, but the goal is always the same—reduce pain, improve mobility and return the patient to a pain-free, healthy, active lifestyle. PPPT treats a variety of conditions and diagnoses including low back pain, muscle and joint pain, preand post-operative conditions, arthritis and degenerative disorders, sports injuries and work-related injuries. They also treat several unique conditions including pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, balance and vertigo. Treatments are typically one hour and always include manual, hands-on therapy by a licensed physical therapist. Sessions often include therapeutic exercise and when appropriate, modalities such as ice, heat, electrical stimulation and spinal decompression. Recently a 31-year-old patient was presented with two months of severe, low back pain after lifting her infant 26 O U R HOMETOWN • OC TO B E R 2 0 17
child out of the crib. She was seen for six physical therapy visits consisting of spinal mechanical traction, manual therapy to her muscles and joints, and core strengthening, resulting in complete resolution of her back pain, allowing her to return to caring for her child. Another example is an 85-year-old patient who reported having nausea and dizziness when getting out of bed. She’s a caregiver for her ill husband, and this made caring for him difficult, as she had to assist him to the bathroom several times per night. Following an evaluation and diagnosis of vertigo, the patient was seen for three visits, which included a manual technique for vertigo; her symptoms disappeared. Dr. Todd’s experience comes from over 12 years in the industry. He received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Rhode Island in 2002, his master’s degree in physical therapy from American International College in 2004, and his doctoral degree in physical therapy from Regis University in 2012. He is a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (and only 3% of physical therapists in the country have achieved this specialty), a nationally certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and has attained advanced work as an orthopedic manual therapist. He believes that patients deserve quality time, empathy, and highquality treatment. That’s why he opened his own private practice. His staff is equally dedicated. Office manager Vivian Chairez assists with insurance needs or questions, and on hand are two full time exercise specialists.
PPPT is located at 1392 E. Palomar Street, Suite 503. They have dedicated parking and welcome walk-ins. For more information, call (619) 482-3000. PPPT accepts most major insurance, and cash plans are available for those not covered by insurance.
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