C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
FREE
NOVEMBER 2016
double duty
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: THE DISTRICT AT EASTLAKE LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT: VFW POST 2111
CONTENTS/
N O V E M B E R 2 0 16
EDITOR'S LETTER
14
DOUBLE DUTY
Growing up, my dad was in the Air Force Reserves. To my brother and me, this meant that every summer, we took a family vacation camping on Lake Huron, for weeks at a time. Annually, several of our relatives would drive from throughout Michigan to gather over Fourth of July weekend, my cousins and I would swim from sand bar to sand bar in the lake and we built castles in the sand. Some of my favorite childhood memories are from these years. For my dad, however, this meant fulfilling his duties at Wurtsmith Air Force Base while answering pressing questions and solving problems related to his private law practice in the small town we left behind. He was busy, and the summers were stressful. Dad pulled “double duty” because he loved his family and his country. My brother and I learned about patriotism on that Air Force base, watched the Thunderbirds fly overhead and attended the local Independence Day parades. I felt proud to see Dad in his uniform each day, being saluted by soldiers. In 1993, he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, and I realize writing this that I’m still proud of him. We all know that San Diego County is a military hub. What we might not all know is the impact that this has on soldiers and their families. For some, military duty is a happy, proud time. For others, it’s not. Sometimes families move and children need to start at a new school because of getting restationed. Other times our loved ones are gone for months at a time. Sadly, they may become wounded or not come home at all. Sometimes our veterans face mental illness, an enemy even mightier than what they encounter overseas, or the loss of a friend from their unit. This November, you can read about three men in Chula Vista who have served “double duty” as reservists. You can also choose to support our veterans by visiting them at the Veterans Home, getting involved in one of the many support organizations or hanging an American flag. I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the joys and freedoms we can experience because of the cost that our veterans and their families have made, and continue to make for us.
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
14 FEATURE Double Duty
18 SCHOOL NEWS Preparedness in Great California ShakeOut Arroyo Vista Charter Named National Blue Ribbon School
23 CALENDAR Out & About
24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT The District at Eastlake
26 LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT VFW Post 2111
—AMBER WEBER, editor OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3
BRAVO
. . . great things happening in our community
PUBLISHED BY:
SEND US YOUR GOOD NEWS! Email editor@ourhometownmag.com prior to the
5th of the month and we will do our best to put the good news in an upcoming issue.
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
Pictured (left to right): Clete Strausbaugh on his weekly clean-up route; Angie Marcu on a walk around the neighborhood and volunteers from the Beautify Chula Vista Day event. MELISSA MONROY, Design
› To CLETE STRAUSBAUGH and ANGIE MARCU for picking up trash to help clean up their Chula Vista neighborhoods. Clete, a retired Navy man who has lived in Rolling Hills for five years, began his clean-up project over a year ago when he saw trash in his beautiful neighborhood. His route is three to five miles, usually twice a week. He starts by walking down Proctor Valley Road to the Shops at San Miguel. He then goes back to Lane, hitting both sides of the road. On the alternate days he goes down Proctor Valley Road and turns right on Hunte Parkway, down to Otay Lakes and then right on Lane by the Border Patrol station. He ends with Saddleback Street. Usually he fills two garbage bags, from trash to road kill.
4 O U R H OMETOWN • NOV EMB E R 2 0 16
Angie has lived in Eastlake since 2001, after 25 years of living in different states. She grew up in Chula Vista and appreciates the smart real estate planning that has developed homes, shopping centers and freeways over the years. Angie often walks or rides her bike through her neighborhood and likes to keep things beautiful.
› To the thousands of volunteers who participated in BEAUTIFY CHULA VISTA DAY. This dynamic community clean-up event, organized by I Love a Clean San Diego and the City of Chula Vista, celebrated its 14th year and has made an extensive impact on the City of Chula Vista as a whole. This year the event was held on Saturday, October 15 at Discovery Park
and the nearby Rice and Del Rey Canyons, and the Otay Recreation Center. A total of 534 volunteers attended the event. They removed thousands of pounds of debris from Chula Vista parks, neighborhoods and canyons. Volunteers also removed graffiti, planted around 200 drought-tolerant seedlings, removed invasive plants and installed three dog waste disposal receptacles. Over the years, thousands of dedicated residents have painted out 7,750 square feet of graffiti, stenciled 200 storm drains to warn against dumping, planted 117 trees and removed nearly 40,000 pounds of debris littering neighborhoods in Chula Vista, showing that huge results can come from volunteers that donate just one morning a year toward helping their community.
Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
ASHLYN O'HARA, Intern
Advertising inquiries: Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com. Editorial Contributions: Amber Weber at Editor@OurHometownMag. com. Visit us online at www.OurHometownMag.com. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. OHTM Inc. is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or advertisers. OHTM Inc has the right to refuse advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. at (619) 840−7722.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Accepting Applications for B OA R D S A N D C O M M I S S I O N S
CYT Presents L I T T L E WO M E N
The City of Chula Vista is currently accepting applications for volunteer positions on Boards and Commissions. To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years old and registered to vote in Chula Vista elections. This requirement does not apply to Youth Action Council students. Current vacancies include:
• Board of Appeals and Advisors – three vacancies. Individuals with experience and/or knowledge in construction or development are encouraged to apply.
• Housing Advisory Commission – three vacancies. There are two vacancies for ex-officio seats (non-voting) and one vacancy for a Tenant Representative 62 years of age or older.
• Veterans Advisory Commission – one vacancy.
• Youth Action Council – 15 vacancies. Applicants must be a 10th, 11th or 12th grade student. Information on Boards and Commissions can be found at http://bit.ly/1JClVSE. Residents are encouraged to apply for Boards and Commissions, even if no current vacancy exists. Applications are kept on file for two years from the date received.
For more information about Chula Vista Boards and Commissions, please contact Leah Larrarte in the City Clerk's office at llarrarte@chulavistaca.gov, or call (619) 691-5041.
On November 11, CYT San Diego will open its production of Little Women, featuring 64 South County cast and their families. The show, based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott, has breathtaking songs, memorable characters and a big-hearted message. It reminds us of the importance of family, goodwill and being true to oneself. A CYT original musical, Little Women tells the beloved story of the four March sisters: the spirited, tomboyish, aspiring writer Jo; lovely and romantic Meg; sweet and giving Beth; and the playful and pretentious Amy—and their beloved Marmee. Filled with excitement, romance, sorrow and hope, the journey of these “little women” is told. When looking for a realistic and historic setting for the Little Women promotional photo shoot, CYT South County area coordinator Erin Kelly reached out to the Darlington House in La Jolla, hopeful to rent the facility for an hour or so. Instead, the Darlington House Social Service League of La Jolla graciously granted CYT South County access to its property free of charge, as one non-profit group supporting another non-profit. This act was exemplary of the theme of generosity and charity found throughout the story of Little Women and
6 OU R H OMETOWN • NOV EMB E R 2 0 16
On your Doorstep
“ „
To me, CYT is love. Louisa May Alcott says that ‘love is a great beautifier.’ This is what CYT does; it makes us beautiful by opening our minds and helping us support each other...
provided a stunning backdrop for the photos and an unforgettable and educational experience for members of the cast. Thanks to the support and partnership of many South County families, businesses and donors, CYT San Diego continues to provide children a safe, wholesome environment and skills to make better life choices so they become positive, contributing members of their communities. Emilie Powers, a sophomore at Chula Vista High School and Marmee in the show, sums up CYT by saying, "To me, CYT is love. Louisa May Alcott says that ‘love is a great beautifier.’ This is what CYT does; it makes us beautiful by opening our minds and helping us support each other, all while sharing God's light." CYT will produce six performances at Mater Dei High School, 1615 Mater Dei Drive in Chula Vista on weekends from Nov. 11 to 24. For more information, visit www.cytsandiego.org/shows/ Little-Women-2016-114.
Founded in 1981, CYT San Diego is an educational nonprofit organization that is committed to developing character in children and adults “one stage at a time.” CYT is dedicated to changing lives and serving children and families by providing them with unique experiences that have a long-lasting and positive impact. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 7
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Announces Ribbons & Shovels Winners Welcome the Holidays with the Starlight Parade Saturday, December 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. The City of Chula Vista recently celebrated the Ribbons & Shovels awards which recognize projects that beautify, enhance, sustain and transform the City. From a majestic home overlooking Otay Valley to the revitalization of Third Avenue, these projects illustrate the tremendous momentum underway in the City. Celebrating the best in art, architecture, landscape, historic preservation, environment and more, the City of Chula Vista recognized individuals, organizations or businesses for outstanding projects completed between 2011 and 2014. Twenty-one projects were nominated for ten award categories. The winners were: New Residential Construction, Single Family: Hacienda Otay New Residential Construction, Multi
Family: Pulse Millenia Apartments New Non-Residential Construction Project: Easton Archery Center of Excellence Commercial Renovation/ Restoration Project: Seven Mile Casino Commercial Renovation/ Restoration Project: Otay Ranch Branch Library Public/Private Landscaping: Fresh to Families and St. Rose of Lima Parish Improvements to Public Realm: Sweetwater Authority WaterSmart Landscape Renovation Projects - Honorable Mention: H Street Extension Art Visible to Public: Powering the Arts Sculpture at Bayfront Park Historic Preservation Project: Greg Rogers House - Honorable Mention: Byron Bronson House Affordable Housing: Congregational Tower Green Building: Gateway Center Solar Project Mayor’s Award for Neighborhood Revitalization: D Street Fill Wetlands Restoration Project and SDG&E and Third Avenue Ale House
8 OU R H OMETOWN • NOV EMB E R 2 0 16
The awards ceremony, hosted by Chula Vista Mayor Mary Casillas Salas and Councilmember Pamela Bensoussan, attracted more than 100 attendees including community leaders, agency officials, development representatives and award winners. The event also served as a fundraiser for the construction of a new terrace for the Chula Vista Civic Center Library. Major sponsors were Baldwin & Sons, SDG&E, Seven Mile Casino, Chula Vista Center, HomeFed Corporation, and Millenia. The event was held at Chula Vista Center, one of the first regional shopping centers in San Diego County. The center won the Ribbons & Shovels Commercial Renovation Award in 2015 for the extensive renovation completed in 2014 that transformed the center into a thriving, vibrant shopping, dining and event destination. Catering for the event, held on the second floor courtyard, was catered by Rodrigo Martinez, Chef at Bobal Catering.
For more information as well as event and project photos, visit chulavistaca.gov/ribbonsandshovels.
It’s never too early to spread holiday cheer when you know that the Chula Vista Starlight Parade is coming to town! Chula Vista Deputy Mayor Pat Aguilar and the City of Chula Vista announce the return of the beloved Starlight Parade, which will run down historic Third Avenue in Chula Vista. The festivities will take place Saturday, December 3 with Frosty's Snow Hill opening at noon, followed by the parade kicking off at 6 p.m. The snow hill, free frosty fun for all to enjoy, will operate in Memorial Park from 12 to 5 p.m., prior to the parade. Also be sure to visit Snack Alley for delicious, hand-held treats to delight in during the parade. Just as the winter sky grows dark, joyful parade units will travel down the historic route of Third Avenue, beginning at H Street and finishing up at E Street. You will be whisked away to a whimsical, winter wonderland of twinkling lights, holiday décor and fun surprises for the whole family to enjoy. A variety of colorful floats, caroling groups, marching bands, dance teams, classic cars and other participants will usher in the holiday season as part of San Diego County's largest nighttime parade.
Share in the joy of building a holiday tradition that will warm your winter memories for years to come. For more information or to participate in the parade, please call (619) 233-5008 or email Camille@mcfarlanepromotions.com.
On your Doorstep
ï‚‚ Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Library Offers ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA PROGRAM
Adults ages 19 and older have the opportunity to complete their high school education at the Chula Vista Public Library. Career Online High School’s accredited program lets adults earn a high school diploma and credentialed career certificate. Brought to public libraries by Gale, a Cengage Learning company, the program prepares students for careers, whether they are entering the workplace for the first time or want to advance in their current job. Participants may be able to transfer high school credits that they have already earned. To begin, applicants simply use their Chula Vista Library card, or apply for a free card at www. chulavistalibrary.com, and complete an online self-assessment test on the library’s website under “Services.” The library will offer six scholarships to eligible Chula Vista residents; those eligible will be contacted for a personal interview in the library. Classes are held entirely online, giving students access to coursework around their own schedule 24 hours a day. Participants will receive support from certified instructors and an academic coach, earn a diploma and a certificate in one of eight high-demand, highgrowth fields: Child Care and Education, Certified Protection Officer, Certified Transportation Services, Office Management, Homeland Security, General Career Preparation and Professional Skills, Retail Customer Service Skills, and Food and Customer Service Skills. They will graduate with a resume, cover letter and other tools to start or advance their career. In addition to earning a certificate, the program gives graduates tools needed to seek employment, including biweekly online seminars, monthly webinars and lessons in creating a cover letter and resume. The California State Library provided funding for three scholarships through a competitive grant process, and the Friends of the Chula Vista Library added the required matching funds to offer a total of six scholarships, valued at $1,100 each. Career Online High School is accredited by the AdvancED Accreditation Commission.
For further information, contact Diana Ysla at dysla@chulavista.lib.ca.us. 10 O U R HOMETOWN • NOVEMB E R 2 0 16
On your Doorstep
Sweetwater Authority Board TO IMP ROVE SWE E T WAT E R DA M
The Sweetwater Authority (Authority) Board voted to fund required improvements to the Sweetwater Dam at its October 12 board meeting. Over $8 million of funding was set aside from Authority reserves to complete construction of the project by December 2018. This action was taken to demonstrate the Authority’s commitment to complying with the State of California Division of Safety of Dams’ (DSOD) directive to make improvements to the The first dam within the agreed upon phase of the timeline.
project to be completed this year will include the project designs and environmental review estimated at $300,000. Construction is scheduled for 2017-18 and 2018-19.
The Board action follows a presentation made by David Gutierrez, Chief of DSOD, at the September 28 board meeting, whereby Mr. Gutierrez stated that the Sweetwater Dam may be unsafe under certain extreme hydrologic conditions and the DSOD may issue water storage restrictions on the reservoir if the Authority did not proceed with the necessary improvements.
The required improvements to the dam include added walls and new concrete armored surfaces to the sides of the dam to safely direct the water and prevent dam erosion during extreme weather events. The project also includes elevating the height of the South Dike, a facility designed to contain water on the south side of Sweetwater Reservoir. The first phase of the project to be completed this year will include the project designs and environmental review estimated at $300,000. Construction is scheduled for 2017-18 and 2018-19. The Sweetwater Dam, located in Spring Valley at the Sweetwater Reservoir, was built in 1888. The Authority conducts regular maintenance and safety inspections of the dam.
Sweetwater Authority, a joint powers public agency, provides public water service to approximately 188,900 residents in its service area, which includes western and central Chula Vista, National City and Bonita. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
ON TOPIC
12 OU R HOMETOWN • NOVEMB E R 2 0 16
ï‚‚ Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
double duty
Double Duty
Americans are known for their freedom. They have freedom to choose whom they’ll marry— if they choose to marry—to get an education, to worship, to move across our great country and to defend it. Some choose to “double duty”—serving as reservists in the Armed Services while working another job and even raising a family. Here are three Chula Vistans who have pursued their dreams while serving to defend our country.
Dan Bauer,
Retired Navy Reserves
“It was around my freshman year of high school that I knew I would serve in the military,” said retired Navy Reserve Captain Dan Bauer. “I felt it was important for someone from my family to participate in defending our country.” Bauer had enlisted as a boiler technician, but he was lucky enough to pick up a Navy ROTC scholarship before reporting to Boot Camp. In May 1987, he received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Marquette University in Milwaukee and upon graduation was selected to be a submarine officer. Bauer spent the next five and a half years serving on two submarines, USS PLUNGER (SSN 595) and USS CHICAGO (SSN 721), completing two western Pacific deployments and a northern deployment. “Sea duty is a rough life and I knew raising a family would be difficult, so I made the decision to leave active duty and continue serving in Reserves,” said Bauer.
14 OU R HOMETOWN • NOV EMB E R 2 0 16
Soon after leaving active duty, Bauer began his civilian career as a Test Engineer for Solar Turbines, Inc. “The quality of technical training I received, as well as the leadership opportunities made working in the civilian world an easy transition,” he said. He is now Manager of Metrology & Test Systems for Solar Turbines. While in the Navy Reserves, Bauer continued to be involved in submarine operations, participating in at-sea exercises and working to ensure the submarine force had a well-trained team of watch standers to supplement the active duty sailors in case of a large scale mobilization. “It was a blast! I got to be part of a constantly evolving world of improved submarine tactics and integration. I did notice after 9/11, there was a shift in focus for the reserves – I knew it was only a matter of time before getting called back to active duty,” he said.
In July 2008, Bauer received involuntary mobilization orders to support Operation Enduring Freedom for a period of 12 to 24 months commencing that October. He was assigned to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. “GTMO is an interesting place. Prior to this, I had little involvement in the ‘War on Terror,’ and now I was here, dealing with detainees. My command was OARDEC (Office for the Administrative Review of the Detention of Enemy Combatants) and I was a Presiding Officer over the Administrative Review Boards (ARB) for the detainees and later the Officer-In-Charge. An ARB is like a parole board, where the detainees were reviewed every year to determine whether they represented a threat to the U.S. I was extremely proud…to ensure the fair treatment of our enemies.” Bauer stated that outside of the long working hours, life in Guantanamo Bay was actually quite good. “The base is
double duty
45 square miles with a 17-mile fence separating the U.S. from Cuba. There were schools, a hospital, church, Navy Exchange, Subway and McDonalds; it was like living in a small city,” he said. Bauer went on to explain that being separated from his wife and two sons was the hardest part of the deployment. “Luckily my employer, Solar Turbines, was very supportive. I also had the distinct privilege of being able to bring my family to GTMO during the week of July 4. The fireworks were better than anything I’ve ever seen anywhere.” When asked about his most memorable experience, Captain Bauer replied, “The caliber of the people I served with was nothing short of impressive. Even with all the diverse backgrounds, all were hard-working, patriotic Americans who wanted to serve their country. I am proud to have served!”
Above: Dan Bauer
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 15
double duty GET THE PARTY STARTED! Rock Pop Latin R&B Swing Retro Country Contemporary Jazz
DJ Sound Express
Left to Right:
Family services
Personalized, one-on-one speech therapy services in the comfort of your own home. research-based bilingual therapy for children and adults. Private pay only.
Entertainer • Emcee • Saxophonist
letitia a. stanton-aicher ms, ccc-slP
For bookings contact: Aaron Valencia 619-247-8422 www.djsoundexpress.com www.breezn.com • saxman3@cox.net
(855) 619-6191 www.LSABT.com
Councilman John McCann , Navy Reserves
Service to country and community are values that City Councilmember John McCann holds dear. McCann originally joined the Navy Reserve Force as an enlisted member and later received his commission as a naval officer. He is a busy man, being a husband, father of four, working in the medical technology industry and as a councilmember. “I love serving my community and serving in the Navy to support our free country,” he stated. Things changed dramatically for our country and its military on September 11, 2001. The September 11 attacks killed nearly 3,000 people and injured more than 6,000 others in the World Trade Center, the surrounding area and at the Pentagon. McCann immediately supported the war effort after 9/11 with his unit at North Island Naval Air Station in helping prepare aircraft carriers to deploy to the Middle East to fight in Operation Enduring Freedom and later in Operation Iraqi Freedom. In McCann’s second City Council term, he was mobilized to active duty to serve as boots on the
This Veterans Day, 16 OU R HOMETOWN • NOV EMB E R 2 0 16
Councilman john mccann and ( past and present) jose viesca, jr.
ground in the war in Mosul, Iraq. McCann was first sent to Fort Jackson, South Carolina for Navy Individual Augmentee Combat Training. He was then sent to Kuwait for additional military training. McCann later arrived at his duty station at an Army Forward Operating Base in Mosul, Iraq. Prior in Mosul an attack at the mess tent killed 22, which was one of the deadliest bombings against Americans during the war in Iraq. McCann severed in a joint unit in Iraq with Army and Air Force members. He was the only member from the United States Navy. “I was honored to support so many heroes in Iraq that fought to protect our country against terrorism. Still, my biggest thanks has to go to my wife, Myssie McCann. She held down the home front and took superb care of our four children while I was gone in Iraq. Families that support their military members serve our country too and I admire their great sacrifices,” he said. Councilman McCann currently servers in the Navy Reserve Force as a Lieutenant Commander.
Jose Viesca, Jr., Retired Air Force Reserves
Jose Viesca, Jr. knows what it means to lead both a military and civilian life. Viesca served under the United States Air Force as an intelligence analyst, a historian, a reservist and as active duty. After enlisting in the 1960s, his job took him all over the world. He spent 1969 at Anderson Air Force base in Guam during the Vietnam War and April of 2000 at Prince Sultan Air Force base in Saudi Arabia delivering mail. One of the things Viesca liked best about his time in the military was the strong sense of camaraderie among his team. This camaraderie was especially important on September 11, 2001. Following the attacks, Viesca, who had been in the reserves at the time, was activated. His team, along with the National Guard, was deployed to Los Angeles International Airport, where they provided around-the-clock visibility. Like many others at the time, Viesca felt it was his patriotic duty to serve his country in any way possible. After a career spanning three decades, Viesca retired in 2006. During his service, he achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and was awarded more than one medal. Viesca is currently a teacher under the Sweetwater Union High School District. Based in National City, Viesca teaches prospective American citizens English. For him, the job hits particularly close to home. Originally born in Mexico City, Viesca was brought to America when he was just four years old, and he has been here ever since. He became a citizen during his first years in the military. Viesca is especially grateful for the opportunities that being an American citizen has afforded him
double duty
and wants others to have those opportunities as well. He encourages his students to go beyond what he teaches in the classroom by reading the news, paying taxes and, of course, voting. At the time this article was written, he and his class had just finished watching the final presidential debate and were looking forward to an event with the mayor of National City the following day. In addition to teaching 19 hours a week, Viesca is also a certified translator and volunteers at school and counselor meetings. Viesca notes that there are ways in which the demands of his Air Force career resemble those of his teaching career. For example, he said that the discipline and punctuality ingrained in him during his time in the Air Force are what motivate him to be on time for his classes and finish all of his school reports on schedule. Similarly, he’s learned that adapting to your surroundings and being a team player is just as important in the Air Force as it is in the classroom. Viesca also believes that his passion is what allows his students to be so successful. He says that one of the best parts of teaching is when his students pass their exams and obtain citizenship, if not on their first try then definitely on their second. When he isn’t teaching, Viesca volunteers at the USS Midway Museum library and in book sales. He started six years ago and says that his favorite part is interacting with other veterans, most of them former Navy. Viesca is also an active Rotarian. Members of Rotary International devote themselves to helping others, and, Viesca says, to promote peace as well. “I’ve had a good life,” he said. “Now it’s my turn to touch lives.”
demonstrate your thanks to our veterans and pride to be an American. Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17
SCHOOL
/ News
Students and Staff Model Preparedness in Great California ShakeOut Arroyo Vista Charter Named National Blue Ribbon School CVESD campus honored as among the nation’s best
U.S. Secretary of Education, John B. King, Jr., recently announced that Arroyo Vista Charter School was named a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School, which was heartily congratulated in the school community. Arroyo Vista is among only 279 public and 50 private schools to receive this honor—and among only four in San Diego County. “National Blue Ribbon Schools are proof that we can prepare every child for college and meaningful careers,” Secretary King said in a video message to honorees. “All of you–students, teachers and administrators–deserve our highest praise. You are shining examples for your communities, your state, and the nation.” National Blue Ribbon Schools are on education’s cutting edge, pioneering innovative educational practices from professional learning communities and project-based learning to social and emotional learning and positive behavior systems. Schools are nominated by the state Department of Education and then complete a comprehensive application about school practices. Schools were nominated as Exemplary High Performing, which are among the top schools in a state, or as Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing, which make the fastest progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Arroyo Vista earned the Exemplary High Performing honor. “I think the award is a reflection of who we are as a community,” said Principal Pat Roth. “Our motto is, Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM). We believe in that 100%. We believe in teaching the whole child. We believe firmly in the partnership with parents. We wouldn’t have the success we do without our parent community. We’re delighted, excited about this honor.” Arroyo Vista is continually at or near the top of the District in student academic achievement. Roth praised her teachers for the school’s success. “They believe every child can succeed, and they are willing to go the extra mile to make that happen,” Roth said. “The[y] collaborate in grade level teams, in vertical teams. Collaboration is key, so that there are no isolated islands of instruction…The emphasis is on student learning.”
For more information about the National Blue Ribbon Schools program, please visit nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov. 18 O U R HOMETOWN • NOVEMB E R 2 0 16
Schools across the Chula Vista Elementary School District took part in the state’s annual earthquake drill called the Great California ShakeOut at 10:20 a.m. on October 20. The event marked a day of individual and community activities featuring the largest earthquake drill ever organized. Great ShakeOut events are intended to foster a culture of preparedness and prevent disasters from becoming catastrophes, organizers said. A key aspect of the Great ShakeOut is the integration of comprehensive science-based earthquake research and the lessons learned from decades of social science research about why people get prepared. The result was a “teachable moment” on par with having an actual earthquake.
The event marked a day of individual and community activities featuring the largest earthquake drill ever organized.
In CVESD, preparations for the ShakeOut began months in advance. Sherry Stone, Ed.D., the District’s Emergency Preparedness and Security Manager, worked with schools to ensure their participation in a test of emergency radios following the ShakeOut. The test yielded data on functionality of the emergency communication equipment. In addition, Dr. Stone presented an emergency kit display for employees at the Education Service and Support Center (ESSC) leading up to the ShakeOut.
The state-wide drill helps create a sense of urgency that is needed for people, organizations and communities to get prepared, to practice what to do to be safe and to learn what plans need to be improved. At the ESSC and most CVESD schools, the earthquake drill was immediately followed by an evacuation drill. “Damaging earthquakes can occur at any time wherever we work, live or travel,” Dr. Stone said. “You never know where you are going to be when disaster strikes. So it is important to have an emergency kit at home, at work and in your car. Make sure to include items you and your loved ones would need on a regular basis, such as medications, baby formula if you have infants and the basics for food, water and shelter during an emergency.”
School News
REALTOR ® Cal BRE#01393526
Every sale utilizing my real estate services... helps me reach my 2016 goal to donate $10,000 to local non-profit organizations. Your support is appreciated, to allow me the opportunity to give back to our community.
Your Friend & REALTOR® For Life!
HomesWithWallace.com | HomesWithWallace@gmail.com
619.772.2054
Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
On your Doorstep
20 O U R HOMETOWN • NOV EMB E R 2 0 16
Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
On your Doorstep
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
22 O U R HOMETOWN • NOVEMB E R 2 0 16
Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!
OUT & ABOUT
NOVEMBER JOAN EMBERY’S “MY ANIMAL WORLD" @ Bonita Museum & Cultural Center, 4755 Bonita Road in Bonita. This exhibit runs through December 3 and is free to the public. This special exhibit will showcase the life of local horsewoman and iconic San Diego Zoo “Wild Animal Ambassador.” For more info, visit bonitahistoricalsociety.org.
05
15TH ANNUAL CHULA VISTA VETERANS HOME WALK VFW Post 2111 will hold its annual 6k walk/run in memory of Bobby Price to benefit the Chula Vista Veterans Home. $35 for individuals and $100 for teams. Visit www. cvveteranswalk.com for info and to register. YARD SALE BENEFITTING THE GERBER FAMILY CENTER @ 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ the back parking lot of the Gerber Center, 1280 Nolan Avenue in Chula Vista. All proceeds will go to the Gerber Family Center for Persons with Disabilities building fund (formerly Starlight Center).
1ST ANNUAL PINGO @ 4 – 8 p.m. @ Salt Creek Recreation Center, 2710 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista. Benefitting the Chula Vista Police Activities League, this event combines bingo-like games with designer purses to create an afternoon of fun and fashion. $40/person and includes 2 drink coupons, light food, and approx. six rounds of playing. Visit squareup.com/store/cvpal for tickets.
08
ELECTION DAY Rock the Vote!
DAY 11 VETERANS CELEBRATION
@ 11 a.m. @ Memorial Bowl, 373 Park Way in Chula Vista. The American Legion Post 434 Chula Vista will host the event, which will include guest speakers, Rifle Squad, Color Guard and placement of the Veterans Day Ceremonial Wreath. A reception with food will follow at Post 434 Chula Vista.
SAN DIEGO VETERANS DAY PARADE @ 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. @ N. Harbor Drive, San Diego. Recognizing our veterans of every era and our serving soldiers, marines, sailors, airmen and coast guardsmen, this is the largest military units assembly parade. For more info, go to sdvetparade.org.
11-20 CYT PRESENTS “LITTLE WOMEN Runs through 11/20 @ Mater Dei High School, 1615 Mater Dei Drive in Chula Vista. A CYT original musical, “Little Women” is based on Louisa May Alcott’s beloved story of the four March sisters and is filled with excitement, romance, sorrow and hope. Enter code FavoriteStories for 15% off your online ticket purchase. Visit cytsandiego. com for dates, showtimes and to purchase tickets.
12
PARADE BAND REVIEW & FESTIVAL Dozens of marching bands will compete as part of the marching band review down the newly finished H Street Extension, followed with a community festival at Bayside Park. Join in celebrating local talent and pay tribute to the many veterans who call San Diego home. Learn more at www.ChulaVistaParade.org.
18
CHULA VISTA CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT @ 2 p.m. shotgun start @ Salt Creek Golf Club, 525 Hunte Pkwy in Chula Vista. Registration is $450/foursome and $125/ individual and includes green fee, cart, range balls, boxed lunch and awards banquet. For more information, email info@chulavistachamber.org.
19
CHULA VISTA BALLET PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER @ 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. @ Chapman Theatre @ Eastlake High School, 1120 Eastlake Pkwy in Chula Vista. Tickets are $25 in advance or $27 at the door. Purchase in person at the Chula Vista Ballet or online at chulavistaballet.org.
31
FREE TRICK OR TREAT @ 3 – 5 p.m. @ Village Walk, Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive 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 Mission Federal. Participating stores will display bright orange pumpkins in store windows. Visit www.ShopVillageWalk. com for info.
SAVE THE DATE 12/03 HO! HO! HO! COME WATCH IT SNOW @ Noon - 3 p.m. @ Village Walk (Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista). Bring the family for afternoon snowfalls, free train rides, holiday crafts and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. For more info, visit shopvillagewalk.com. 12/03 STARLIGHT PARADE @ 6 p.m. @ Third Avenue Village. This free, family event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Don’t miss Frosty’s Snow Hill at Memorial Park from noon to 5 p.m. where kids of all ages can play in the snow. For more info or to participate in the parade, call (619) 2335008 or email Camille@ mcfarlanepromotions.com.
EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Eastlake Tavern & Bowl, Eastlake; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; www. ebanetworking.com.
FARMER’S MARKET Thursdays @ Third Avenue Village Association (Third Ave. & Center St.); 3-7 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 23
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
THE DISTRICT AT EASTLAKE
In commercial real estate, timing is everything. No one knows that better than Mike Vogt of IRE Development. His company owns a number of commercial properties in Otay Mesa, Calexico and Chula Vista. Most notably is The District at Eastlake, previously known as the Eastlake Design District, located at the intersection of Otay Lakes Road and Fenton Street. Mike is a prodigy of one of the most beloved realtor-developers in Chula Vista’s history, Corky McMillin. He worked under the guidance of Corky for several years before moving out on his own. In 2005, at the height of the South Bay economy, IRE opened the Eastlake Design District. The concept was to capture home improvement and furniture sales. With many nationally branded stores, it was sure to work. Well, hindsight is 20/20. In 2006 Mike quickly and insightfully reacted to the change in the economy and had the project rezoned for a more sustainable business model: a family friendly food, entertainment and recreation destination. Today The District at Eastlake has become one of the most successful family oriented destinations in the South Bay. It offers well-known eateries such as Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, Lolita’s Mexican Food, Vega Café and Eastlake Tavern and Bowl, and family entertainment like Sky Zone, Lazer Journey and Kid Ventures. 24 O U R HOMETOWN • NOVEMB E R 2 0 16
Maybe your family is looking to become more active or safe. Consider Floaties Swim School, Pride Martial Arts, Danzart Academy and World Gym. You can even host an event at The Venue, help your kids in school with Sylvan or get a first-class auto detail at Splash Auto Detailing. If you have a need for speed, check out Speed Circuit Indoor Kart Racing, the only one of its kind in South County. Also be on the lookout for the largest indoor inflatable destination in the South Bay, Play City. It’s scheduled to open in spring 2017. As if this weren’t enough, Mike and IRE Development are planning Phase 2 to double the size of The District at Eastlake by adding new attractions. Here’s the build-to-suit short list in the works: sporting goods store, hotel, microbrew and restaurant, theatre-restaurant-bar, high-end driving range and an indoor rock climbing facility. The District at Eastlake is fast becoming a family favorite with something for everyone.
The District at Eastlake is now 100 percent occupied. With over 230,000 square feet of quality retail space, it may be one of Chula Vista's largest contributors of taxes per square foot. With the completion of Phase 2 scheduled to be done in late 2018, IRE Development will contribute an estimated $8.5 million in taxes annually and collectively employ 700 people.
ï‚‚ Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 25
LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT
VFW Post 2111
“No One Does More For Veterans” is our motto, states Dan Bauer, Past Commander of VFW CDR Jack E. Carleton Post 2111, “and we try to live up to it every day.” Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts are for comrades who served or are serving honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces in a foreign war or overseas operation recognized by a campaign medal. Posts also have an auxiliary unit for relatives of veterans who are eligible for membership. The mission of the VFW is “to foster camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts; to serve our veterans, the military and our communities; and to advocate on behalf of all veterans.” Located at 299 I Street in Chula Vista, VFW Post 2111 has called this historic building home since 1959 and is the second largest VFW post in California. VFW Post 2111 and the Auxiliary offer many services to the community, including:
Patriotic Presence. The Post proudly displays American flags in downtown Chula Vista along Third Avenue between G and E Street on special days and accepts worn American flags to properly dispose of them. Additionally, the Color Guard participates in key ceremonies including Memorial Day, Veterans Day and the Starlight Parade. The Post also holds solemn ceremonies commemorating POW/MIA Day, Patriot Day and Veterans Day.
Safe and Comfortable Place for Active Duty, Veterans, Families and Guests. On the lower level of the Post, patrons and guests can relax and watch TV, play pool, read books or just hang out. On the upper level, a large hall can accommodate up to 150 people and is available for rent to the public at reasonable rates. The kitchen serves lunch daily and is open to the public, and the Post offers live entertainment every Saturday night.
Youth Scholarships. These challenge students to reflect
“We are lucky to still have WWII and Korean veterans as members of our Post. The majority of members served during Vietnam, and we are starting to see more Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom veterans joining - but we can always use more members to help serve our veterans and the community,” says Dan. “It is a pleasure and privilege to serve, and we are all very proud of the work we do!”
on our nation's history, their ideals and principles, and their own experiences based on a patriotic theme. Voice of Democracy is an audio-essay program for high school students, and Patriot Pen is a written essay program for students grades 6-8.
To learn more about VFW's programs, call (619) 442-1262 or visit www.vfwpost2111.org. For youth scholarship information, visit www.vfw.org/community/youth-andeducation.
15th Annual Chula Vista Veteran’s Home Walk. On November 5, the Post will hold its annual 6K walk/ run from the Chula Vista Veterans Home to the Post. This event raises $6,000-$8,000 every year and all proceeds go to improve Veterans Home residents’ quality of life. Go to www.cvveteranswalk.com for info.
26 O U R HOMETOWN • NOV EMB E R 2 0 16
$10
PER THROW OR
3 for $25 PER INDIVIDUAL
$50
PE R TE A M
ROTARY CLUB OF EASTLAKE
SOUTH BAY