the GIFT C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: MCFARLANE PROMOTIONS RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT: THE RASO AND DALE FAMILIES
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EDITOR'S LETTER
13
the
gift
You’ve seen holiday gift guides and walked through stores advertising Christmas gifts and holidays specials. For most Americans, a big part of even the traditional Christmas celebration involves giving and receiving gifts. “What would you like for Christmas?” and “What do you want Santa to bring you?” are common questions, and a family’s time of gift giving can be special. But what is a gift? It is something given willingly, with joy. Gifts come in all shapes and sizes. They can be practical, extravagant, thoughtful. They are not always tangible. Some of the greatest gifts are gifts of the “heart”—the gift of time, of service, of listening. My husband and I received the gift of hospitality when we were college students. A widow with preteen twins opened her home to us. Many Saturday evenings we cooked and ate dinner together while doing laundry in her house. As poor college students far from home, Mark and I loved spending time with a family. In turn, our “surrogate mom” appreciated the help that we could offer on household projects and spending time with the kids. That gift of hospitality not only gave us lifelong friendships with her and her now-grown children, but it has also encouraged us to be hospitable. This past November we had more nights with guests than without. Mark and I feel blessed every time a friend or family member rolls a suitcase down the hallway. This month we feature people in the community who have shared their own unique, intangible gifts. Rachel Olson volunteers on a Mercy Ship and is an example of the gift of healing hands. The Bruzee family has a powerful story about the gift of open hearts. And Vanessa Page and Letty Silva are strong examples of the gift of serving others. As you shop for your family’s Christmas gifts this month, I encourage you to think about what your gift of the heart is. Maybe you’ll help a neighbor with his garden or cook a meal for a family with a parent deployed. Maybe you’ll volunteer at the animal shelter or visit the elderly at a nursing home. Maybe you’ll read with a child or mail thank-you notes to those you appreciate. Maybe you’ll take in an exchange student or choose to foster a child. The ways to give are endless, and every gift makes our hearts grow larger. Enjoy your winter holidays, and take a moment to reflect both on the many gifts that you have received and the ones that you are in a position to give. Merry Christmas!
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
13 FEATURE The Gift
18 ON TOPIC Talking to Aging Parents
20 HOUSE & HOME Holiday Home Safety
22 CALENDAR Out & About
24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT McFarlane Promotions
26 RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT The Raso and Dale Families
Cover/Feature Photos by Katie Keegan ©Mercy Ships
—AMBER WEBER, editor OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3
BRAVO
great things happening in our community
Nekayla Torralba presenting a check to the Jose Montano Foundation at its annual 5k in September 2015.
› To NEKAYLA TORRALBA, a junior at Otay Ranch High School. Nekalya created a club called More Than Just Cupcakes. She baked hundreds of delicious cupcakes and raised $500 for the Jose Montano Foundation (JMF). JMF delivers healthy snacks, toys and games to children battling cancer. JMF works with Rady Children's Hospital, Kaiser, Loma Linda and other hospitals. Nekayla presented a check to JMF at its annual 5K at Liberty Station in September 2015.
› To the ten project WINNERS OF THE RIBBONS & SHOVELS AWARDS on Oct. 22 for improving and enhancing Chula Vista. The awards celebrated the best projects in art, architecture, landscape, historic preservation and the environment that were completed between 2010 and 2014. The Ribbons & Shovels event marks the return and rebranding of the Beautification Awards that were last awarded in 2008. Mayor Mary Casillas Salas and Deputy Mayor Pamela Bensoussan distributed the awards at a ceremony with more than 100 in attendance. The 2015 Ribbons & Shovels winners are Corta Bella, The Douglas & Nancy Barnhart Cancer Center, Chula Vista Center, Flacke Family Front Yard Landscape Project, MTS and SANDAG Trolley Renewal, Hilltop Child Development Center “Habitat gARTen,” Rohr 4 O U R H OMETOWN • DEC EMB E R 2 0 15
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prior to the 5th of the month and we will do our best to put the good news in an upcoming issue.
Southwestern College DeVore Stadium, a 2015 Ribbons and Shovel winner. Photo courtesy of the City of Chula Vista.
2016 Miss San Diego Chelsea Magracia and Miss San Diego's Outstanding Teen Thalia Rose Maigue Bendorf.
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
MELISSA MONROY, Design
House–Chula Vista Historic Site #98, The Landings at Winding Walk, Southwestern College DeVore Stadium and Del Mar and Davidson Apartment Complex developed by Mario Lopez.
›
To the new 2016 MISS SAN DIEGO CHELSEA MAGRACIA and MISS SAN DIEGO’S OUTSTANDING TEEN THALIA ROSE MAIGUE BENDORF. The young ladies were crowned on Saturday, November 7. Chelsea Magracia, age 23, and Thalia Rose Maigue Bendorf, age 16, bested the competition in a pageant that included a personal interview, talent, physical fitness, evening gown and on-stage question segments. These titleholders represent the Miss America Organization’s core values of style, service, scholarship and success. Chelsea Magracia is a student of the University of California, Irvine and graduated from Bonita Vista High School. Chelsea’s platform is “special needs need special people.” She wants to increase public awareness, acceptance and understanding about the abilities of individuals with special needs. Thalia Rose Maigue Bendorf is an accomplished junior at Bonita Vista High School. Thalia’s platform is “KIDabetic”–empowering kids to care
for their diabetic siblings, inspired by her own experience of caring for her diabetic sister. The two talented and poised winners will promote their platforms and represent the Miss America Organization in events throughout the year plus compete at the Miss California and Miss California’s Outstanding Teen pageant in Fresno in Summer 2016.
› To the CHULA VISTA SUNSET ROTARY
ASHLYN O'HARA, Intern
ALEXIS HERNANDEZ, Intern
CLUB for its generous contribution to KIDCO. Presenting the check were Past President Penny Bollinger, Treasurer Miguel Hernandez, Secretary Soraya Martinez and President Lourdes Valdez. Receiving the check on behalf of KIDCO were Directors Gayle Doddridge, Marcie Cate, Sophia Bueno and Bianca Alvarez. KIDCO is a non-profit program who helps children in crisis within the Chula Vista Elementary School District. Funds will be used for helping these students with adjustments in school, improving selfesteem and self-confidence and developing solid relationships, which help increase chances for academic success.
Send advertising inquiries to Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com. Send editorial contributions to 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
Community Congregational Church Reaches Milestones
Community Congregational Church has a lot to celebrate this holiday season. To start, November marked its 125th anniversary! Founded in 1890 as Chula Vista’s first church, it welcomed members who traveled by wagons, carriages, horseback, bicycles and on foot over unpaved roads. In 1942, the multipurpose room now known as Bradley Hall provided Chula Vista with its first gymnasium. The room has been home to basketball games, dances, National Guard drills and service club meetings. Today additional buildings include Congregational Tower, which houses senior citizens, and an education building, which holds a pre-school. An anniversary celebration was held November 22. This Christmas marks another milestone. Rev. Dr. Richard Freeman will retire as the Senior Minister after leading the church for nearly 16 years. Dr. Freeman will deliver his last sermon at the church on Sunday, December 20 at both 8:15 and 10:00 a.m. A reception will follow, and the public is invited to attend. He will also lead the church’s Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on December 24 at 7:00 PM.
Students in the Chula Vista Elementary School District experience a rigorous 21st century learning environment that is rooted in effective teaching practices and high-quality instruction. We nurture every child’s imagination, intellect, and sense of inquiry. Working with stakeholders, we harness the potential of a collective intelligence rich with the imagination and creativity necessary for students to become difference makers. CVESD is frequently honored for student academic achievement, high performing schools, and quality instruction.
Dr. Freeman has had a 45-year career. He has served our community by giving the Invocation at the First Friday Breakfast for over 13 years, as the Vice-Chair of the City of Chula Vista Strategic Planning Committee, Treasurer of the Third Avenue Village Association, Convener of the South Bay Interfaith Alliance, President of the Ecumenical Council of San Diego County, Treasurer of Justice Overcoming Boundaries in San Diego County and Board Member of the Interfaith Shelter Network in San Diego County, along with various positions in his denomination. He is also an active member of the Chula Vista Rotary Club. Best wishes, Dr. Freeman, and congratulations on the church’s historical marker!
www.cvesd.org · (619) 425-9600 6 OU R H OMETOWN • DEC EMB E R 2 0 15
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On your Doorstep
“I wanted to extend a heartfelt thanks from myself and my siblings to your team for their excellent assistance for our mother’s birthday. Everyone gave us a fantastic effort. As we watched mom’s care during the last several days, we recognized the exceptional service all the caregivers extend to mom. We especially appreciate the teams support of mom’s exercising so she can do more for herself. Your ideals of friendly and compassionate culture at Westmont has obviously taken a strong hold.” --Alice Chen
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OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 7
On your Doorstep
Magical Snowfall is a FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITION
Get ready for a magical holiday experience as fluffy, white snow floats down from the sky to transform Village Walk at EastLake into a nightly snow globe. This annual snowfall event draws thousands of visitors from throughout southern California. Each night from December 1 to 24, the magical snow falls with choreographed music and lighting at 6 and 7 p.m. near the Koi Pond at Village Walk at EastLake, located at the intersection of EastLake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista. The eco-friendly snowflakes, which replicate real snow falling, are mostly water and vanish without leaving any residue on contact.
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A special celebration on December 1 will celebrate the first snowfall. The awardwinning EastLake High School Show Choir, under the direction of Rebecca Land, will present musical shows at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. Each night through Christmas Eve, people will gather near the Koi Pond as the lights begin to twinkle and music plays as the snow falls. Children get Santa’s Helper headbands and “magic” glasses to wear for an enhanced view of snow falling in rainbow colors. Between the two nightly snowfalls, community groups stroll through the center singing Christmas carols to
On your Doorstep
Cast Program ACCEPTING NEW VOLUNTEERS
entertain shoppers. Each year Village Walk at Eastlake makes donations to schools, churches, Scout troops and other organizations who participate in this holiday tradition. A new contest on Facebook this year will award prizes to people who share the best video of snowfall experiences. Bring mobile phone or video equipment to capture the magical snowfall and post your video on Village Walk at EastLake’s Facebook page. Four winners will each receive a $100 gift card to their favorite Village Walk at EastLake store or restaurant. Visit www.shopvillagewalk. com or call (858) 695-2700 for more information and contest rules.
Next training session: January through mid-April 2016
If you have ever thought about serving your community as a volunteer, consider joining the City of Chula Vista CAST program. Chula Vista’s CAST—Citizen’s Adversity Support Team— consists of volunteers trained to provide families of trauma victims with compassionate, supportive assistance. Volunteers, on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, are trained by professionals including police officers, firefighters, psychologists and emergency room staff. First responders summon CAST to
a variety of emergency calls including serious motor vehicle accidents, murders, domestic violence, shootings and fires. Since 1993, CAST members have responded to thousands of calls in the communities of Chula Vista, Bonita and Imperial Beach. The next training session begins in January and runs through mid-April 2016. For more info or to request an application, contact Maria Zadorozny at (619) 691-5213 or mzadorozny@ chulavistaca.gov.
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On your Doorstep
Stuff a Stocking for Seniors
Donations Needed for Children
It’s never too early to think about the holidays and never too late to help those in need. Now through December 7, the Chula Vista Police Activities League (CVPAL) is collecting donations for disadvantaged families during the holidays. Donations of cash, toys, gift cards and wrapping paper can be dropped off in the lobby of the Chula Vista Police Department, 315 Fourth Avenue, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Especially needed are new, unwrapped toys for children ages 9 through 13 and $10 gift cards for young teens ages 12 to17. Some gift card suggestions include movie theaters, restaurants, Target, Walmart or Subway. No bicycles or electronics are needed. Checks can be made payable to CVPAL, c/o Shelly Robillard, CVPD, 315 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Selected families are suggested by the Chula Vista Elementary School District and the Chula Vista Welfare Council. Last year, CVPAL assisted almost 325 families and distributed gifts to 1,200 children.
CVPAL is a non-profit corporation which assists at-risk youth with the improvement of their intellectual, physical and social skills. They offer yearly scholarships and Sixth Grade Outstanding Achievement awards in addition to the holiday give-away. For more information, call (619) 691-5146.
The holiday season is an exciting time for many, but low-income seniors are often forgotten during it. Holidays can be difficult for them because they cannot afford the everyday items they need. This year St. Paul’s Senior Services is asking residents to help stuff a stocking for seniors and make a difference for those in need. St. Paul's Senior Services has been serving seniors in the San Diego community for 55 years offering memory care, assisted living, skilled nursing and independent living. St. Paul's Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in Chula Vista directly assists low-income, medically fragile seniors who need support to continue living at home. So, spread good will and cheer by donating everyday items to low-income seniors this holiday season. Suggested items that are needed by St. Paul's PACE seniors are: · · · · · · · · · · · · ·
Toilet Paper Shampoo/Soaps Razors Pillows Cleaners Trash bags Sheets/blankets Bag/purses Stamps/envelopes Journal/notebook Undergarments Soft food items Dried and canned foods
Donations can be dropped off in the lobby of St. Paul's Senior Services and PACE locations until Dec. 18. PACE Chula Vista 630 L Street Chula Vista, CA (619) 271-7100 St. Paul's Plaza 1420 E Palomar St, Chula Vista, CA 91913 (619) 591-0600
For more information on St. Paul's Senior Services or PACE Program, visit http://www.stpaulseniors.org/ or call (619) 239-6900. 10 O U R HOMETOWN • DEC EMB E R 2 0 15
On your Doorstep
Replenishing the URBAN FOREST in Chula Vista
The City of Chula Vista has been nationally recognized as a Tree City USA for over 23 years. However, just as all living things have a life span, every tree—even a well-kept one—eventually grows old and declines. Tree removal then becomes mandatory to eliminate a potential hazard. Trees located on Chula Vista City property are inventoried and assessed for the condition and health of the City’s urban forest to identify and preemptively remove any trees that could be harmful. California’s multi-year drought has triggered early aging, lowered immunity and activated a decline in trees throughout the state, including Chula Vista. Such trees pose an ever present risk to the community as they may fall, causing injuries to people or damage to property if they are not removed before failure. Also, certain trees, including invasive fan palm trees, are considered potential fire hazards. Even with annual trimming, fan palm trees can grow so tall that they affect adjacent utility poles and wires. In the interest of public safety, and in preparation for the upcoming predicted El Niño weather, Chula Vista has begun removing affected trees in certain locations. While some may question why trees are being removed, every effort has been made to consider other options first. The good news is that the City will benefit from a grant provided by the California State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. This grant will provide funding to restock many vacant tree sites over the next two to three years. About 900 new trees will be planted along with other suitable drought-tolerant shrubs and softstemmed plants. Replenishing the forest in Chula Vista will have many benefits including improved storm water capture, improved water quality by reducing water pollution, improved air quality, increased soil moisture and welcomed shade.
For any questions regarding Chula Vista’s tree maintenance and open space areas, please call Sam Oludunfe, City Forester and Open Space Manager, at (619) 397-6000 or visit the Public Works webpage at www.chulavistaca.gov/publicworks.
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www.HomesWithWallace.com OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
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the gift of
HEALING HANDS ByRachel Olsen
When I moved to Otay Ranch as a young teenager, I never thought it would land me on a ship in Africa. But sometime in high school between homework, soccer practice and involvement at Paseo Del Rey Church, I heard about Mercy Ships’ work to bring free surgical care to developing nations. It sounded like a perfect match for my passions, and after finishing university I applied in early 2015. I’ll be in Africa until June 2016. Of all the cities I could have lived in to prepare for an international life, Chula Vista was ideal. It exposed me to a wide variety of ethnicities and instilled in me a love of cultural diversity. Paired with my degree in intercultural studies, I was able to navigate living and working in an unfamiliar culture with people from all over the world. While it can be difficult to be several thousand miles away from family, it is worth it. In the big picture, I think the ability to share what I’ve been given with people who don’t have access to modern healthcare is a much greater blessing than a sacrifice. As I work in the Hope Center with patients who are waiting for surgery or in post-surgery rehab, it is a privilege to be a part of their journey towards healing. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to establish friendships with the people of Madagascar, and to learn from the struggles they face and the sacrifices they make for their families every day.
One of our first patients, a young man in his twenties, arrived with a large tumor distorting his face. All of the other patients avoided him. He was so afraid of the ship that he ran away right before he was supposed to be admitted to the hospital and made the threeday journey back to his village alone. Within the week, a family member brought him back for surgery. His tumor was successfully removed, and he now looks like a different man. The radically changed look in his eyes reflects the heavy burden that has been removed from his face and his life. Those who could not see past his tumor may now see him for the first time. Every day I meet patients like this who receive free surgery on the hospital ship and then heal, surrounded by loving volunteers. They are real people with hopes and dreams, families, fears and strength forged from suffering. It is an honor to celebrate with them as they find hope and healing.
All of the work on Mercy Ships is done by volunteers, from the doctors and nurses to kitchen staff and accountants. Volunteers come from all over the world and stay for anywhere from two weeks to a lifetime. If you are interested in more information, visit www.mercyships.org. You may find information about joining the ship at volunteer.mercyships.org. If you would like to support a current long-term crew member, please visit mercyships.org/crewmates. OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
the gift of
OPEN HEARTS By Jacqui Bruzee
Early in our marriage, Dustin and I talked about the idea of adopting a child someday. In those daydreaming conversations we never imagined what our future family would look like and how God would use adoption to build our family. As high school sweethearts we married young, 22 and 21 years old, and set out to begin our family immediately. Month after month our attempts failed, and within six months we received diagnoses that we never expected. We knew then that our dreams of conceiving a child naturally were over. Though heartbroken and scared, we held on to hope and continued to pray for a child. Three years later, God answered our prayers. Someone known to our family was pregnant and revealed that she intended to place her baby for adoption. When our story was shared with her, she immediately said she wanted us to adopt her baby. In July 2005, our perfect blessing was placed in our arms just 26 hours after her birth. Because we felt that having a family name was important, she was named after her maternal great-grandmother, Emma. She is bright, creative and has a knack for all things musical. She dreams big and loves even bigger. As our daughter grew, so did the tug at our hearts for another child. We had become painfully aware of the number of children in foster care in need of forever homes. We began classes to become a licensed foster home and completed a home study through the county that we resided in at the time. It took several months, but once our home study was complete, we were matched with a baby right away. After a few days of preparing, we learned that she wouldn’t be our child. Almost immediately we were matched again, but this was also not our child. It would have been easy to grow weary at this point, but we just knew that God had a baby planned for our family, and we waited patiently. In May 2010 we were matched with a two-and-a-half-month old boy. We knew immediately this was our son, before we ever met him. A week later we met with social workers to learn everything they knew about him. We were able to meet him for the first time a week after that. We loved him the minute we laid eyes on him, and that first day he snuggled his daddy, cooing and smiling. We gave him the name of his maternal grandfather, maternal great14 OU R HOMETOWN • DEC EM B E R 2 0 15
grandfather, and paternal great-grandfather, Robert. He is such a blessing to our family! He smiles with his entire face, and it brightens every room he walks in. His laugh is infectious, and he is a joy to have in our family! Not long after Robert’s adoption was finalized, we moved into a new home. We didn’t transfer our foster care license, and as we tried to declutter as we moved, we got rid of all of our baby items. We didn’t have any intention of growing our family. But, as we learned early in our marriage, our plan for our lives is not always God’s plan for our lives. We would be blessed by adoption once more. On a Thursday afternoon when Robert was three years old, we received a phone call that a sibling had been born two and a half months earlier and was in a foster home. They wanted to place him with his brother if we were willing. We were. By Monday we needed to be prepared to have a home inspection so we could begin visiting with this sweet boy. Remember the part where we got rid of all of our baby stuff? It was a busy weekend! We slowly transitioned our third child home from the foster home he had been in since birth. We named him Joseph after his paternal grandfather. He also has brought laughter and joy to our family. At two years old he loves to tell “knock knock” jokes and make people laugh. Thirteen years ago when Dustin and I married and started our lives together, we never envisioned the life we have. We couldn’t imagine that we would have three children that look so different from us or that we’d get second looks in the grocery store. It wasn’t what we thought we wanted, but it is beautiful. When we look at our daughter we don’t see dark, curly hair that contrasts her mother’s blond, straight hair; we see a little girl that loves to bake and color with her mommy. We don’t see a little boy with eyes as dark as night looking back at our light blue eyes; we see a boy who looks up to his father and wants to be just like him. We don’t see a toddler with skin much darker than ours; we see a boy who has our sense of humor and loves to make people laugh. We don’t see the family of our dreams; we see a family that is far beyond anything we could have asked or imagined, and we are so thankful it’s ours.
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the gift of
SERVING OTHERS By Ashlyn O'Hara
The unsung heroes of the holiday season—those who use the time to give back to the less fortunate—not only benefit from knowing they’re doing good works in the world, but they also have the reward of seeing how many lives they’re impacting for the better. Vanessa Page works every year to create a true winter wonderland for those who otherwise would receive nothing. Hosted every year at the Chula Vista Library on Orange Avenue, Ruth’s Closet, after Vaness’s middle name, gives toys, clothes and school supplies to lowincome families, serves a variety of food, and even has gifts for children to wrap for their parents. Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Vanessa brought her tradition of serving others to San Diego when she moved seventeen years ago.
Fueled by her genuine want to help others, what Vanessa does for families is no doubt her greatest reward of the season.
the best result of serving others is seeing the faces of the people [you are] helping.
After working with large organizations without seeing a direct impact on others, she appealed to the Chamber of Commerce, which directed her to the Chula Vista Library, where she’s been ever since. When asked her favorite part of what she does, Vanessa cites smiling faces, receiving letters of thanks, hugging gratuitous parents and knowing that she’s been able to positively influence someone’s life. Desiring nothing in return, she remarks that helping people is what fills her and makes her feel complete. Vanessa is also able to turn her service into a community event, with neighbors lending their trucks and high school students helping out for community service hours.
Another family that enjoys giving back every year is Letty Silva’s. Every year she turns her and her husband’s small business into a true cornucopia of holiday festivities. Like Vanessa, Letty views the winter season as the ideal platform to give back. In addition to collecting and wrapping gifts for low-income families, Letty and her extended family also prepare over 300 tamales, staff a breakfast serving line and even enjoy visits from Santa.
Primarily using funds earned at her family’s business, Letty attributes much of her benevolence to her mother. With a 42-year streak of aiding those in need, Letty says that she grew up learning to help the less fortunate. When she revived the tradition three years ago, she did so with the hopes of bringing her family together and teaching the younger children what it means to give to people who may not have much. Similar to Vanessa, Letty reflects that the best result of serving others is seeing the faces of the people she’s helping. She also recalls an employee who came to her crying, saying how good it made him feel to be a part of something so special. Through a tradition rooted in bringing people together and aimed at spreading the goodness of service, the holidays for Letty Silva and her family are made all the sweeter with their generosity. OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17
ON TOPIC Preparing to Talk WITH AGING PARENTS
The holidays are fast approaching. That means festive gatherings, great food and time to visit with family. If you’re like many baby boomers—adults born between 1946 and 1964—it’s also a time to check in with your folks and see how they’re doing. Perhaps they’re doing just fine, but if you have parent(s) who need some additional help, how do you bridge that conversation? Here are a few helpful tips from the experts on having a constructive conversation.
Convene siblings, children, aunts and uncles regarding a parent’s care before meeting with the parent. Have honest, open discussions with loved ones about plans and goals surrounding long-term care, e.g. an assisted living community, memory support or end-of-life desires. Mary Eaton-Campbell, Executive Director at Westmont Living, says, “Timing is everything. Quite often we hear ‘I’m not ready yet’ from our seniors when the topic of choosing a retirement community comes up. For many the time it takes to make a decision is so long that they find themselves making the decision or having the decision made for them when there is a true crisis in their lives. If it becomes a crisis-driven move, then often choices are limited because of urgency. The decision to make a move into a retirement community is a personal one. It’s one worth investigating in long before you ever have to make a move. Seniors need to have a voice in their decision to make a move to a retirement community or not to make a move. At the very least they deserve the right to be well informed on what the best fit is for themselves and their own situation.” Many active seniors still want to live in their homes and stay independent even though some may need specialized care and help with daily activities like dressing, bathing, feeding and remembering to take medications. There are options for that, too. In-home care companies can help your folks keep their independence and still have help when needed. Caregivers can come as few as four hours one day, once a week, on up to 24/7 care. Often they become part of the family. Find one that cares for your parents as much as you do. “Do your homework—many people have preconceived ideas that are somewhat out of date as to what a retirement community really is. Many of today’s communities have really evolved and offer many amenities that are more resort like and offer an attractive lifestyle,” says Mary Johnson of St. Paul’s Plaza.
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Remember that the standard of care is equal to the planning done beforehand. Here are recommendations from Tina Nava and Lindsay Polis from CareConnection on how to prepare.
Legal Matters A good starting point is to legalize your parents’ wishes so they are ensured that they are carried out to their specifications. A will, power of attorney and healthcare directives can be completed. Financial Matters Encourage your parents to look at all financial assets and liabilities, and determine who has access to those assets in the event a parent becomes incapacitated. Determine how much money should be allocated for all expenses, and estimate a timeline based on the age and health of the individuals as to how long certain expenses will have to be paid. Medical Matters Discuss plans for not only health insurance, but also long-term care insurance and life insurance. Does a special health care fund need to be created to assist with unforeseen or non-covered medical expenses? Do your parents have money set aside for additional caregivers as the need arises? Personal Matters What plans do they have for housing in the event they are unable to remain safely in their home alone? What are their ideas about end-of-life matters such as hospice care and funeral arrangements? Above all else, try to respect the wishes of your parents. We all want to live our lives with dignity and love.
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HOUSE & HOME HOLIDAY HOME SAFETY
Many of us prepare for the approaching holidays with decorations, candles and cozy fires. During this time of year when we are rushed and busy, we often forget that fire never takes a holiday! Unfortunately, there is an increased risk of home fires and injuries during this busy season. To help keep you and your family fire safe and free from injury, the Chula Vista Fire Department would like to remind you to take the following steps to keep your holidays happy and safe.
Cooking Unattended cooking is the leading cause of U.S. home fires and home fire injuries during the month of December. Always “Cook With Caution.”
Never cook while sleepy or while drinking alcoholic beverages. Stay in the kitchen while cooking and keep an eye on the food. Keep your stovetop clear and free from cooking utensils and clutter.If you are simmering, frying, baking or roasting food, check it regularly and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking. Create a “kid free” zone of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food and drinks are prepared. If you have a cooking fire, get out of the house and close the door behind you. Call 9-1-1 from outside.If you have a pan fire, carefully slide a lid or cookie sheet over the fire, turn off the stovetop and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool. For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
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Candles The month of December is the peak time for home candle fires. Remember “Candle With Care!”
Extinguish all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid using candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep. Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.Use candle holders that are stable, sturdy and won’t tip over easily. Light candles carefully. Keep hair and any loose clothing away from the flame. Never leave kids or pets alone in a room with burning candles. Keep matches and lighters up high and out of reach in a locked cabinet. Consider using battery–operated, flameless candles which look, smell and feel like real candles.
Decorations
Some holiday lights are for indoor or outdoor use, but not both. Check and use the correct ones. Replace strings of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strings to connect. Never connect more than recommended. Do not block doors or exits with holiday decorations.
Christmas Trees As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are likely to be serious and spread very quickly.
Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. Cut two inches from the base of the trunk before placing it in a stable stand. Add water to the tree stand daily.
Decorations used to create a merry and festive home atmosphere are often the first things to catch fire.
Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, space heaters, heat vents or lights. Never use candles near or on the tree. Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
Choose decorations that are flame resistant and flame retardant. Keep candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
If you have an artificial tree, be sure it’s labeled, certified or identified by the manufacturer as fire-retardant.
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Use lights that are labeled by a recognized testing laboratory and determine whether they are designed for indoor or outdoor use. Inspect lights for frayed wires, bare spots and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Replace as needed. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect. Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving the house or going to bed. Dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried out trees are highly flammable and should not be left inside the home or garage. Check with your community to find neighborhood recycling programs. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside and check them to make sure they are safe for storage and next year’s use. Purchase smoke alarms and give the gift of life. Test your smoke alarms and tell your guests about your home fire-escape plan. Ask smokers to smoke outside, and provide large, deep, stable ashtrays for their use. Check on elderly relatives and neighbors. The holidays are a great time of fun and happiness, but they can turn quickly from joyful to tragic when a home fire occurs. By being prepared, you can be assured of a safer and happier holiday season.
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
OUT & ABOUT
DECEMBER CVPAL DONATIONS NEEDED through Dec. 7
HO! HO! HO! COME WATCH IT SNOW
@ 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday @ Chula Vista Police Department, 315 Fourth Avenue in Chula Vista. Donate cash, toys, gift cards and wrapping paper for disadvantaged families. Especially needed are new, unwrapped toys for children 9-13 and $10 gift cards for young teens ages 12-17. For more info, please call (619) 691-5146.
@ 6 and 7 p.m. every night through Dec. 24 @ Village Walk (Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista). Enjoy the community carolers, listen to holiday music and watch the snow gently fall. For more info, visit shopvillagewalk.com.
WINTER YOUTH COED BASKETBALL REGISTRATION Now through December 10 @ Chula Vista Recreation Centers. No experience necessary to play. Register on a walk-in basis or online at chulavistaca.gov/rec. For more info, call (619) 409-1980.
STUFF A STOCKING FOR ST. PAUL’S SENIORS through Dec 18 @ St. Paul’s Senior Services and PACE locations. Spread goodwill and cheer by donating everyday items to low-income seniors this holiday season. Suggested items include toilet paper, shampoo/soaps, pillows, sheets/blankets, stamps/ envelopes, dried and canned food. For more info, go to www.stpaulseniors.org or call (619) 239-6900.
22 O U R HOMETOWN • DEC EMB E R 2 0 15
05
STARLIGHT PARADE
@ Holiday in the Village starts @ noon. The parade kicks off @ 6 p.m. @ Third Avenue Village. Kick off the holiday season by attending this free event for all ages. For more info or to participate in the parade, call (619) 233-5008 or email Leanne@ mcfarlanepromotions.com.
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ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING AND HOLIDAY CELEBRATION @ 5-7 p.m. @ Bonita-Sunnyside Library, 4375 Bonita Road in Bonita. Join the museum and holiday staff for holiday stories, a craft, hot cocoa, cookies and a visit by Santa.
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FIRST FRIDAY BREAKFAST – STATE OF THE CHAMBER 2015 @ 7:30 a.m @ San Diego Country Club, 88 L Street in Chula Vista. Please note the date change to the second Friday of December. RSVP to firstfridaybreakfast@ chulavistaca.gov or call (619) 585-5606. For more info, visit chulavistachamber.org.
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FREE HOLIDAY FUN AT VILLAGE WALK
@ noon-3 p.m. @ Village Walk (Eastlake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista). Bring the kids and your cameras and snap a photo of your child with Santa. Pick up a free coloring book from Mrs. Claus and then take a free train ride around the shopping center. Plus, children ages 12 and under are invited to make a free holiday craft, while supplies last. Special afternoon snowfalls will occur at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. For more info, visit shopvillagewalk.com.
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CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICES @ 4:30,
6 and 7:30 p.m. @ Concordia Church, 1695 Discovery Falls Drive in Chula Vista. For more info, visit www. concordiachurch.com.
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
25 CHRISTMAS
EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Eastlake Tavern & Bowl, Eastlake; 11:30 a.m.1 p.m.; eastlakebusiness.org. FARMER’S MARKET Thursdays @ Third Avenue Village Association (Third Ave. & Center St.); 3-7 p.m.
KIDS READY TO READ Interactive storytime program Thursdays @ Otay Ranch Branch Library; 11:15 a.m.; chulavistalibrary.com.
EASTLAKE FOOD TRUCK GATHERING Wednesdays @ Eastlake Design District; 5:30-8:30 p.m..
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1420 East Palomar Street, Eastlake, CA 91913 OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 23 LIC# 374603643
HT 12 2015
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
MCFARLANE PROMOTIONS
Chula Vista is a great place to live. There’s always something Laurel began McFarlane Promotions, Inc. in 1994 as a to do or an event in the area to attend, such as HarborFest small company with a dream to turn ordinary events in August or the Starlight Parade this into extraordinary events. Laurel month. Maybe you’ve checked out offers her clients 20 years of handssome of the bigger events in the area like on event planning experience and the San Diego Mardi Gras or Monster relationships. With a flawless reputation Bash. We even have community events in the community for executing the With a flawless like San Diego LGBT Pride or San Diego most popular and prestigious events, Restaurant Week. You have to admit McFarlane Promotions, Inc. draws reputation in the there’s something for everyone. record attendance to its events. Many of these events attract thousands of participants, and organizing them is no small task. Just ask professional event planner and promotions guru Laurel McFarlane of McFarlane Promotions, Inc. She and her dedicated team run all of these events and more. Laurel is a modern-day superwoman. From planning, organizing and running large events to managing a household of three boys and one girl, you might wonder if she ever sleeps. She has Cole, age 13, and Troy, age 11, in football. Brooke, age 10, is in cheerleading, and Hudson, age 7, is in soccer. Fortunately husband Kevin Flatt is always around to help.
community for executing the most popular and prestigious events, McFarlane Promotions, Inc. draws record
Laurel has access to key decision makers and businesses essential to an event’s success. Always offering clients her creativity, contacts and attention to detail, she is an expert at uniquely tailoring each event to their satisfaction. Laurel has extensive references for her work and personal character; as a result she has a tremendous repeat book of business, but is always cultivating new opportunities.
McFarlane Promotions staff is comprised of some of the most talented and creative people in the country. A events. full-time public relations staff ensures clients and the events appear regularly in newspapers, magazines, online publications, radio, TV and more. Next These two are the definition of high school sweethearts, time your family, organization, non-profit or club wants a having met as sophomores at Westmont High School in first-class event, remember who does it the best. Contact northern California. Laurel is a graduate of San Diego State McFarlane Promotions, Inc. at (619) 233-5008 or www. University and has made this her home ever since. mcfarlanepromotions.com.
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OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 25
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT The Raso and Dale Families
A few third-generation, family-owned businesses call Chula Vista home. One that stands out is La Bella Pizza Garden & La Bella Café & Games, located in downtown Chula Vista. Owned by the Raso Family, the restaurant recently celebrated 60 years of business, a milestone that comes with many memories. Starting in 1955 with a single pizza oven and authentic family recipes, Tony “Papa” and Kitty Raso opened La Bella Pizza Garden. With help from their oldest daughter Rosery, known to customers as Rusty, second oldest Phillis and six-year-old son Joey, the Raso family quickly became a local hangout. As the business grew, so did the family with the addition of Tony, Jr. in 1959. Soon more dining space was created and a banquet room was opened upstairs. Sadly the Raso family lost Phillis in 1964 due to a drunk driver that not only took her life but also the lives of three friends. Tony and Kitty believed in their community. Even today and during holidays La Bella’s was known for being “a place where people meet to eat.” A number of local service clubs and nonprofit organizations met and formed under the family-style, home cooking of Tony, Sr. and the delightful service of Kitty. Even some of today’s leaders have memories of La Bella’s across the decades. Who would have known that a young Chula Vista High School football player who hung out at La Bella’s after the games would end up becoming a Chula Vista City Councilman, Chula Vista Mayor and then go on to be a five-term member of
26 O U R HOMETOWN • DEC EM B E R 2 0 15
the San Diego County Board of Supervisors? If you guessed Greg Cox, you’re right. The Raso family defined the word “hospitality.” Their doors were always open to host special events, including the wedding receptions of their own children. Tony and Kitty also believed in people. In 1977 they promoted a young and reliable man to manager. His name was Stan Dale, the same manager today nearly 38 years later. As a matter of fact, many of the staff at La Bella’s have loved working there for more than a decade. Both Tony, Sr. and Kitty have passed on, but their legacy is in good hands. Staying true to tradition, the next generation is now working closely in the business. Tony, Jr.’s three young adults now work in the family business. Matthew, Michael and Phillis (named after her late aunt) are in training to take La Bella’s to the next level. Of course they’re getting help from Stan Dale and his family. Like the Rasos, the Dale family is all in when it comes to supporting and running the restaurants. Stan’s wife Hannah and their two sons Jordan and Loren all play an important part in keeping the family tradition strong. This year as a tribute to La Bella’s 60th anniversary, Tony Raso was selected to be the Grand Marshall for the Starlight Parade on Saturday evening, December 5. This same honor was bestowed to his mother, Kitty, 25 years ago. Show your support and enjoy another great Chula Vista family tradition.