Our Hometown Chula Vista - April 2014 by OurHometownMag

THE GREAT OUTDOORS april 2014

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS ViVint solar westmont liVing weber family

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID GARDENA, CA PERMIT #40

RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT

contents

a p r i l 2 0 14

From the Editor When was the last time you went sailing, ran a race, observed animals in their natural habitats or supported a cause that you care about? Whether your answer is yesterday, last year or that it’s still on your bucket list, you have an opportunity to do it right here in Chula Vista. This month’s issue focuses on some of the fun that happens outdoors in our own city. Some of the events only come around once a year, such as Day of the Child on April 19 or the Fun Run on May 17. Other events occur more frequently, such as the Living Coast’s new exhibit or the days the Bill of Rights schooner will be open for tours and sails. Still other ways to enjoy the great outdoors can occur every day of the year. Chula Vista offers many parks and trails to hike, bike and camp.

18 enjoy the great outdoors 04 bravo Announcements

06 community On your doorstep

18 Cover story Get Outdoors in Chula Vista

24 on topic Bon Appétite

You might consider supporting the Library’s Bon Appétit fundraiser or taking your kids to a free community Easter egg hunt. Many organizations in Chula Vista support learning and offer familyfriendly activities.

Amber Weber editor, Our Hometown

SUHSD Update Q&A with Dr. Escobedo

30 calendar Cover/Feature Photography by Schafer Photography

I encourage you to take advantage of the great outdoors, from the Pacific Ocean to the San Miguel Mountains. Be adventurous, try something new and have fun!

26 Education

Out & About

32 business highlights Westmont Living Vivint Solar

34 resident spotlight Weber Family

Read Up Online at:

www.OurHometownMag.com

BRAVO

Look what great things your community is up to...

The club collected over $7,500 for childhood cancer research and has raised close to $40,000 since its inception. For more information about the BVHS Octagon Club, email ElaineMLucca@hotmail.com. To the supporters of the South Bay Family YMCA’s annual campaign. Your contributions make it possible for financially-challenged families to access services and support. Our Hometown Magazine thanks the businesses and individuals who supported our team: Isabel Lozano, Westmont San Miguel Ranch; Dale Walker, Bighorn Golf Club; Greg Martinez, CPA; Joe Kheder, Elite Computer; ActivCare; Rudy Moralez; Nicole Graichen, Eastlake Educational Foundation; Foundry Church; Mauricio Lutteroth, The Eastlake Self Storage; and Humberto Rosas, B2 Contracting. Together we make a measurable impact in helping the Y toward its goal. To Rabeka Harrison for organizing the Team Amy Strong 5k Run & Walk on Saturday, March 1. Amy Touchet loved to run

Photo Credit to Ana Romo

To the Junior Optimist Octagon Club of Bonita Vista High School (BVHS) for hosting its 7th annual hip-hop dance showcase called “Dance For a Cure” on February 7. Over 350 dancers from 14 Southern California hip-hop dance crews participated. Octagon president Jenny Oh and over 50 student club members produced the show, sponsored by the Bonita Optimist adult club.

marathons. When Rabeka discovered that Amy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, she wanted to help the runner by organizing a charity 5k event. Sadly, Amy passed away a few days before the event. Over $7,000 was raised for Amy’s surviving husband and two kids. Donations and purchases of Team Amy Strong t-shirts and jewelry can still be made by contacting Rabeka Harrison at RabekaHarrison@ gmail.com To olympian high school for winning the Academic Decathlon on February 1. The event, sponsored by Mission Federal Credit Union, is San Diego County’s longestrunning academic competition. More than 100 students participated in the event from 13 schools. Hilltop High School took second place, Sweetwater High School took third place, and Bonita Vista High School came in fourth. Olympian High School will now represent San Diego County in the California Academic Decathlon Championship. Congratulations and best of luck, Eagles!

C.J. Rabine, fifth grade, Clear View; Brenna Pangelinan, sixth grade, Olympic View; and Meghan McCann, middle school grades, Discovery Charter. The event was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Chula Vista. To Lina Anton-Echeverria for her work as a health and food advocate for children. As a mother and grandmother, her natural concern for children’s wellbeing has led her to author the first book of a series called Ana-Tommy and Friends: Making Anatomy Fun! Lina also created a curriculum to go along with the books to help readers understand how to change their eating habits for the better. You may email her at lina@ana-tommy.com or visit her website at www.ana-tommy.com.

To the participants in the Chula Vista Elementary School District’s 2014 Speech Contest, who regaled listeners with inspiring personal reflections about the meaning of liberty, service, courage and sacrifice. The grade-level champions were Paola Osuna, fourth grade, Salt Creek;

if you would like to contribute to Bravo, send a quick note to our editor, Amber Weber, at editor@ourhometownmag.com and we will do our best to put your good news announcement in an upcoming issue. Submissions should be sent by the 10th of the month. We look forward to hearing from you! 4 Our Hometown · april 2014

On your doorstep

A Special Evening for Moms-to-Be

Baby on the Way

Date: Wednesday, May 14 Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Refreshments provided

• Ask physicians and specialists your questions about pregnancy and childbirth • Enjoy a tour of the Sharp Chula Vista Women’s and Infants’ Services Department • Get advice on selecting an OB-GYN and pediatrician • Learn how you can choose to have your baby at Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center

Registration is free; space is limited. Please call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277) or visit www.sharp.com/babyevent to register.

NEWS

On your doorstep...

february's state of the city highlights

ayor Cheryl Cox, 39th Mayor of Chula Vista, gave her final State of the City address on February 25. As a former school teacher and principal, Mayor Cox placed education in Chula Vista at the top of her agenda. She urged community members to engage in constructive conversations in order to help the Sweetwater Union High School District improve its working relationship with the community. Her office will host a forum in the months to come to convene residents and businesses outside Sweetwater’s board and administration to provide a platform for idea sharing. Mayor Cox also addressed the recent suggestion of unifying grades K through 12 into one district. She emphasized that neither the elementary nor secondary school districts currently support such a move and made a case for confronting the immediate need for better governance and financial transparency from Sweetwater. Mayor Cox also

highlighted the different cultures of the two districts, which make a merger challenging. Instead, she called for strategies to recruit board members who can govern effectively, interact well with stakeholders and construct a set of guiding principles for the next board and superintendent. Mayor Cox’s ability to see what can be was clear: “We’ve turned things around at city hall in the face of dire circumstances. The same can be done at Sweetwater.” She used this opportunity to bring to light financial gains the city has made, despite lower end-of-year reserves than expected, and praised the city’s award-winning Finance Department. Heading in the right track, the city’s bond rating increased twice in the last year. Mayor Cox encouraged voters “to elect a new Mayor and council who [will] put the city’s fiscal health first and not make promises that can’t be kept.”

The city’s Continuous Improvement program also garnered acclaim; it examines organizational procedures “in order to eliminate waste, reduce costs and improve service.” This came about through a partnership with Goodrich Aerostructures, which is now United Technologies Corporation. In line with continuous improvement efforts, she asked the Council to support the City Manager’s efforts to evaluate the Fire Department at all levels to have a clearer understanding of best practices and to innovate in public safety. Mayor Cox went on to address the drought in California, which affects water reliability. Chula Vista has helped lead the state in water conservation, and she praised efforts of Chula Vistans to reduce water use. She also recognized Chula Vista as one of only three organizations in the country receiving top honors at the national Climate Leadership Conference in San Diego. That’s not the only recent award for Chula Vista, though. The Bayfront Master Plan received a nationally recognized achievement award from the American Planning Association for Urban Design. The city purchased property along Bay Boulevard for a new bayfront fire station to prepare for future communities. Perhaps most exciting is the knowledge that by the end of this year, H Street will extend for direct access to Marina Parkway.

“

For the first time in history, you will be able to drive or ride a bike from the mountains to the bay on one street. 6 our hometown · april 2014

”

On your doorstep

written by amber weber

Leap Frogs land

in chula Vista

Next steps will include the Port of San Diego’s recruiting capable master plan developers, and the California Coastal Commission’s approving the tear-down of the old SDG&E substation.

PUBLISHER Michael Monaco sales@ourhometownmag.com

Mayor Cox announced other construction projects in Chula Vista, including the Millenia development, Olympic Pointe, and the Villages in Otay Ranch. Even State Route 125 will see construction as Caltrans connects it with SR-905 in Otay Mesa. A cross-border airport terminal with Rodriguez Field and a Bus Rapid Transit route linking eastern Chula Vista with downtown San Diego and Otay Mesa in 2015 are in the works, among other projects. Mayor Cox closed her address with a reminder of how fortunate we are to be home to one of three Olympic Training Centers, where 40 athletes of Team USA trained for the Winter Olympics, and acknowledged the lessons we can learn from them. “We were inspired by these athletes and others, who after lifetimes of hard work and training tested their resolve to be the best on a world stage. If they fell out of form, they made corrections to keep going. If teammates faltered, they found a way to pull everyone together. If an athlete’s equipment failed, a coach from another country was there to help. And, even if the prospect of winning a medal was in jeopardy, above all, they remained dedicated to the finish. In the spirit of the Olympian, finish what you start, set new goals and never let challenges get in the way of success.” Cheryl Cox is in the last year of her second, and final, term as Mayor of Chula Vista. Registered voters will have the opportunity to vote for the city’s next mayor in June.

PUBLISHED BY Standout Media Group, Inc

EDITOR Amber Weber editor@ourhometownmag.com

DESIGNER Melissa Monroy design@ourhometownmag.com

n Tuesday, February 25, the Navy Parachute Team from our local Naval Special Warfare Command performed for Calvary Christian Academy (CCA) and McMillin Elementary School students, family and friends.

This special presentation was arranged by a CCA dad who shared his job with students as part of career week. CCA would like to express its sincere gratitude to Principal Jorge Mora and Denee Felber at McMillin, the U.S. Navy SEAL Team and the Chula Vista Elementary School District for making this a reality. The schools were genuinely thrilled to have this opportunity to interact with one of the premier elite forces in the world. CCA and McMillin Elementary School are proud of their military personnel. May they sense our appreciation for all they do to serve and protect the greatest country on earth.

CONTRIBUTOR Jen Amos

CONTRIBUTOR Keren De Leon copyright 2013. all rights reserved. reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. standout media, inc. is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the publisher or advertisers. standout media has the right to refuse advertising. contact standout media group, inc at (619) 840 7722

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 7

On your doorstep

trumpeting the sounds of a success VH1 Save The Music Foundation Awards CVESD with First Grant in Multi-Year Music Education Rebuild

he Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD), San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory (SDYS) and San Diego County Office of Education Visual and Performing Arts recently announced a new partnership with VH1 Save The Music Foundation to ensure all children experience the positive effects of music education. The announcement was made at J. Calvin Lauderbach Elementary School, which is one of four schools in CVESD to hire a full-time music education instructor. VH1 Save The Music Foundation provided Lauderbach with $30,000 in musical instruments, with the stipulation that CVESD employ a full-time music instructor to provide music education as part of the school day. CVESD had cut music instruction from nearly all of its 45 schools more than 15 years ago and had no full-time music teachers until this year. “Today is an exciting day for the District and community of Chula Vista,” said Asst. Superintendent John M. Nelson, III. “After many years of limited access to music education in our schools, we are embarking on reintroducing Visual and Performing Arts across our entire District over the next several years.” “We are thrilled that…the District's leaders [will] return music instruction to all of its students and schools and we are grateful that VH1 Save the Music Foundation is joining us to support the District in this effort,” said Dalouge Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of SDYS.

8 our hometown · april 2014

Alex Cortes, principal of Lauderbach Elementary, said the Community Opus Project, a District initiative in collaboration with SDYS, has been a supportive avenue for promoting students’ academic, emotional and social growth. “The vast majority of our students who started with the program from the beginning have demonstrated academic progress that meets or exceeds state standards, and that is coupled with outstanding attendance records,” Cortes said. “Opus has brought a sense of pride to our community and our students are proud to be the trailblazers of this journey for our district.”

Once upon a time, THERE WAS A DRESS... resale boutique for women and children*

clothing • furniture household proceeds benefit women and children affected by family violence

*we happily accept gently used donations 1392 East Palomar Street, Suite 503 Tuesday - Friday 11:00 - 6:30 • Saturday 10:00 - 5:00 619.779.7810

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 9

On your doorstep

California Association of Community Managers Recognizes San Diego Champions

alifornia Association of Community Managers (CACM), the state’s leading community association management education organization, has launched a program aimed at raising awareness about the importance of state-specific certification of community association managers in San Diego County and throughout California. The new campaign, titled My Community Champion, utilizes the experiences of real homeowners association (HOA) managers as they share messages about the level of training and expertise needed to successfully manage multi-million dollar residential community developments. The television, radio, web and print campaign includes three community managers from San Diego County.

10 our hometown · april 2014

“More than two million San Diego County homeowners, about 68 percent of the county’s population, live in a community governed by a homeowners association managed by a professionally trained community association manager,” said Karen Conlon, president and CEO of CACM. “We felt it was important that residents learned more about the important role community association managers play in effectively managing residential communities. We also want to demonstrate the value these community champions add to maintaining standards of living for homeowners throughout California.” The new awareness campaign includes a consumer website

that provides information about community association management and the responsibilities of HOA board members. The website also features a day in the life of several community association managers. Consumers can visit mycommunitychampion.com to find out more about Champions in their area or recognize their own community manager as a Champion by contributing comments to “Tell Us About your Champion” in the “Stay Informed” section of the site. Community association managers are responsible for managing a majority of the nearly 50,000 common interest developments or HOAs in California. It is estimated more than 14.3 million people live in HOAs statewide.

On your doorstep

“

California law currently features more than 1,200 statutes and laws that drive the practices of community association managers and HOAs,” Conlon said. “It’s in everyone’s best interest for community association managers to be well educated and certified by CACM, whose training focuses strictly on the laws impacting HOAs in our state. It’s our belief that community association managers are unsung neighborhood heroes responsible for contributing to the sustainability of property values and keeping hundreds of thousands of residential communities running smoothly.

”

For more information on cacm, please visit www.cacm.org.

community easter EGGstravaganza Concordia Church and School has a heart to connect with the community. Located in Winding Walk across from the Marketplace Shopping Center, it has done just that with its annual Easter EGGstravaganza. The event’s big draw is a massive 5,000-Easter egg hunt. With plenty of space for separate egg-hunt fields to accommodate various age groups, the kids have a blast. The EGGstravaganza also features several activity and craft booths, raffles, face painters, jumpers, balloons and lots of food—all free to the community. Over 2,400 people participated last year; come and join the fun!

at Concordia

The 2014 Community Easter EGGstravaganza and Bunny Run will take place on Saturday, April 12. The EGGstravaganza will go from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 10 a.m. Registration for the Bunny Run, a family fun run sponsored by b2be Sports & Wellness, will begin at 8 a.m. Restaurant and community sponsors include Chick-Fil-A, Casa Bella, Eastlake Tavern and Bowl, Kid Ventures, Pediatrics in Paradise, b2be Sports & Wellness and Jump and Rock, just to name a few. Preregister at www.concordiachurch.com. Contact Melissa Salomon, Community Life Coordinator for Concordia at mgsalomon@gmail.com for more information. Concordia Church and School are located at 1695 Discovery Falls Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91915.

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 11

On your doorstep

Cycle EastLake & Run is back

t’s that time again—Cycle EastLake & Run is back. On April 26, nearly 800 cyclists and runners from all over Southern California will take to the streets and trails of the Eastlake community for the 18th Annual Cycle EastLake & Run event. Don’t miss out on the fun!

Explore the hills, lake and phenomenal views with bike rides which consist of the popular 100k Cycle, 25 Mile Cycle, Family Roll & Stroll and the 18 Mile Mountain Bike & Poker Ride. Also back by popular demand is the EastLake Half Marathon. This showcases some of Chula Vista's beautiful parks, our exceptional mountain and lakeside views and well-maintained, low-traffic running trails. New this year is a 10k run. There is something for everyone!

Your HOA Deserves A Champion! Your home is where most of life’s special moments take place. But owning a home also comes with a fair share of responsibilities. If you live in an HOA, a California-certiﬁed Community Manager can help. These dynamic professionals act as a “Champion” for your community by guiding HOAs through complicated issues to improve the quality of life for you and your neighbors. Learn more...

MyCommunityChampion.com

Empowering Managers. Enriching Communities.

12 our hometown · april 2014

Activities will begin at the Otay Ranch Town Center in front of REI. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., experience the Community Expo with many free children’s activities. Included in this is a bicycle helmet giveaway sponsored by Kaiser Permanente and the Cox Cares Foundation. Adults can bring children to be personally fit for a properly fitted bicycle helmet. Helmets are limited and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. This family fun day promotes healthy living and benefits the EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds to support technology enhancements for the EastLake community schools. “The EEF is so grateful for the way the community embraces this event; it is really a community effort,” says EEF Executive Director, Nicole Graichen. “Not only is this a fun family event that runners and riders of all levels can enjoy, but each participant is raising critical funds needed for technology in our schools which allows our students to be better prepared for an ever changing technological world.” This year’s sponsors at Festival Level and above include Cox Communications,

 Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!

On your doorstep

each participant is raising critical funds needed for technology in our schools

Republic Services, Manalo Realty, US Bank, Wawanesa, SDCCU, Lighthouse Christian Fellowship, Children’s Physicians Medical Group, Intero Real Estate Services and Mission Federal Credit Union. Event partners include the South Bay Family YMCA, City of Chula Vista, Computers 2 SD Kids and Otay Ranch Town Center.

Registration begins at 5 a.m., and the first ride begins at 6 a.m. The cost for adults starts at $45 and youth is $35. For more information about the event or to register, go to www.eefkids.org/cycle or call Nicole Graichen at (619) 997-6470.

Need someone that speaks fluent insurance? Bernardo Vasquez, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0F45943 460 Third Avenue, Suite A Chula Vista, CA 91910 Bus: 619-425-6560 Cell: 619-876-0056

I’m your agent for that. No one wants to pay for unnecessary extras and with my help, you won’t have to. I’ll help make sure you understand your options, and that you have the best coverage at the best price. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL ME TODAY. ®

1001183.1

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 13

14 our hometown 路 april 2014

On your doorstep

PROGRESS CONTINUES ON

chula Vista’s bayfront

the chula Vista bayfront master plan creates a strategy to transform chula Vista's underused, formerly industrial waterfront into a thriving residential and resort destination...

The California Coastal Commission unanimously approved San Diego Gas & Electric’s substation relocation project on March 13, granting the utility a permit to remove the existing substation near the former power plant and rebuild in an industrial zone farther south on Bay Boulevard.

T ACCELERATING INNOVATION THROUGH THE INTELLECT

Students in the Chula Vista Elementary School District experience a rigorous 21st century learning environment that is rooted in effective teaching practices and high-quality instruction. We nurture every child’s imagination, intellect, and sense of inquiry. Working with stakeholders, we harness the potential of a collective intelligence rich with the imagination and creativity necessary for students to become difference makers. CVESD is frequently honored for student academic achievement, high performing schools, and quality instruction.

Enrolling now for 2014-15

www.cvesd.org • (619) 425-9600 ext. 1570 EACH CHILD IS AN INDIVIDUAL OF GREAT WORTH

 Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!

he commission’s approval also included new conditions recommended by Commissioner Greg Cox under a proposal known as the Bayfront Enhancement Fund Alternative (BEFA). The BEFA includes additional undergrounding of transmission lines, removal of large lattice towers and requires SDG&E to provide $2 million in funding to the Living Coast Discovery Center and $500,000 to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for wildlife habitat restoration and enhancement. SDG&E will return to the California Public Utilities Commission for approval of the BEFA conditions. Both the demolition of the South Bay Power Plant and relocation of the adjacent substation are major elements envisioned under the Chula Vista Bayfront Master Plan, which also was unanimously approved in August 2012 by the Coastal Commission. Currently, the power plant’s massive concrete foundation is being removed with expected completion by the end of 2014. Once the substation is relocated, the master plan calls for a mix of parks, open space and an RV Park, helping increase public access to the waterfront. By the end of this year, Chula Vista’s bayfront will receive a new access point directly off Interstate 5 when the Port of San Diego completes an infrastructure project to open H Street from Bay Boulevard to the businesses on Marina Parkway. At 535 acres, the Chula Vista Bayfront Master Plan creates a strategy to transform Chula Vista's underused, formerly industrial waterfront into a thriving residential and resort destination along with the creation of new public parks and open space for the protection of natural coastal resources. april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 15

16 our hometown 路 april 2014

THE GREAT OUTDOORS by bridget Palitz, don johnson and Kristi mcclure

now that spring is officially here, there is no better way to spend an afternoon or weekend than enJoying the great outdoors. chula vista offers a growing number of outdoor opportunities for families and individuals. Feature photography provided by schafer Photography; additional photos provided by the living coast discovery center, the south bayfront sailing association (sbFsa), and the city of chula vista.

the historic tall ship bill of rights is another Chula Vista attraction. The 136-foot, 127-ton vessel was launched from South Bristol, Maine in 1971 to serve as an ocean-going platform for teaching marine science and the ways of the sea to school children. In her lifetime, the Bill of Rights has taken 10,000 young sailors-to-be on voyages of discovery.

the liVing coast discoVery center is one such place to visit. Chula Vistans may remember the local zoo and aquarium by its former name, the Chula Vista Nature Center. For over 25 years, the center has been delighting animal lovers of all ages from its quiet, tranquil setting on the southern edge of San Diego Bay and the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. The center’s year-round exhibits focus on local animals and plants native to the Southern California region, providing visitors a unique opportunity to view animals such as sea turtles, sharks, rays, hawks, falcons, owls and a variety of shorebirds, reptiles, invertebrates and more. A brand-new seasonal exhibit, Splash of Color: Wildlife + Art, runs from March 29 to Sept. 1. It tells visual wildlife stories through a unique combination of animal encounters and vivid photographic art. More than 50 new animal species are being introduced for the seasonal exhibit, which features a diverse array of new birds, tropical fish,

aquatic invertebrates, terrestrial invertebrates and reptiles. A new dark room exhibit allows guests to experience the colorful magic of glow-in-the-dark coral reefs. The Living Coast will also unveil a new walk-through, freeflight aviary featuring a colorful collection of 20 to 30 birds. After you finish exploring the center’s animal exhibits, check out the series of walking trails for a leisurely stroll through the wildlife refuge and down to the water’s edge. From here, you’ll spot remnants of what was once a gunpowder factory that made explosives from kelp during World War I. You will also be able to see stunning views of the downtown San Diego skyline and the Coronado Bridge.

The Bill of Rights’ new owner, the South Bayfront Sailing Association (SBFSA), continues to teach young sailors and expand the schooner’s mission to include science, art and adult education. Training programs for people interested in becoming professional mariners will also be conducted, focusing on navigation, sail handling, operating 100-ton vessels, maintenance and maneuvering. Traditional skills such as marlinspike, celestial navigation and coastal piloting will be provided. Complementing the water curriculum of the SBFSA is a workshop teaching the fundamentals of wooden boat building. The lessons learned on a moving platform of beauty, grace and power are not easily forgotten.

With the hustle and bustle of our modern, high-tech lives, it’s refreshing for the whole family to unplug, unwind and get back to nature, even if just for a few hours. visit www.thelivingcoast.org or call (619) 409-590 for more information. the living coast discovery center is located at 1000 gunpowder point drive, chula vista 91910 and is open daily.

Splash of Color: Wildlife + Art runs from March 29 to Sept. 1 april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 19

Explore Chula Vista



The schooner’s presence in the Chula Vista Harbor is a focus for the community, drawing many interested visitors and volunteers, including people who have dreamed of tall ships since they were children.

Free Public Dockside Tours april 12 & May 17

South Bay Sunset Cruises Tuesday Evenings in april & May

the chula Vista recreation department

 a pdF of a pocket map that will help guide trail users throughout the network of multipurpose trails and more information can be found at chulavistaca. gov/goto/greenbelt 20 our hometown · april 2014

with 56 parks and nine recreation centers, also offers myriad opportunities for youth and adults to enjoy the outdoors. One of the Recreation Department’s biggest events is the Sixth Annual Chula Vista Community Fun Run, a family-friendly, 5k course at the Olympic Training Center. Team up with family, friends, neighbors and coworkers by participating in a fun and healthy event at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 17. Participants may walk, stroll or run the course alongside Olympians through the exclusive Olympic Village. A community expo and celebration with food, fun and music will follow the race. The Chula Vista Police Activities League will conduct a pancake breakfast fundraiser to support its student scholarship program the day of the race. The Recreation Department also provides more than 2,000 personal enrichment classes, after-school programs, sport camps and adult opportunities that take

For a list of upcoming events, visit www.sbfsa.com or call (619) 500-2419.

The Bill of Rights will be open for free public dockside tours Saturday, April 12 and May 17 and is frequently open for visitors during the week. On Tuesday evenings in April and May the ship will offer South Bay sunset cruises and a

Saturday or Sunday daytime sail, traveling to the Coronado Bridge and Naval Amphibious Base and providing beautiful vistas of the protected wildlife areas. During the trip, passengers will be able to engage in discussions of nautical themes, sea lore, local history and nature with crew and guest lecturers.

E place indoors and outside. For more information on recreation programs or to register for the Fun Run, visit www.chulavistaca.gov/rec. For those who enjoy bicycling, Chula Vista has nearly 100 miles of dedicated bicycle facilities. In fact, the City of Chula Vista has been certified as a bronze-level “Bicycle-Friendly Business” by the American League of Cyclists. The city offers more than eight miles of multi-purpose Class I bike paths, 75 miles of Class II bike lanes, and 34 miles of Class III bike routes. For the mountain biking enthusiast, the Otay Valley River Park trail starts by San Diego Bay and ends near the U.S. Olympic Training Center. In addition, there are numerous hiking and biking trails in the eastern canyons. For those who prefer walking, the Chula Vista Greenbelt is a 28-mile open space, park and multitrail system loop that extends through the Otay Valley, Sweetwater Valley and the bayfront. This unique greenbelt provides urban relief and recreational opportunities for the entire South Bay area as well as the greater San Diego region.

Explore Chula Vista

parks

A CAMPING STAYCATION written by Jamie hallett

rec centers

28 miles of open space

multi-purpose class i bike paths

class ii bike path

Only six miles from our home in Eastlake Trails, Sweetwater Regional Park offers many features. On a recent trip, we spent the weekend hiking, enjoying the view of the Sweetwater Reservoir, biking, geocatching, roasting marshmallows, telling stories by the fire and even chopping wood. With 112 camp sites, equestrian camp sites and room for RVs, there is surely something for everyone. Plus, I relaxed knowing I could run home and grab any necessities we forgot. Our oldest son was still able to make his basketball game and baseball practice. My in-laws were able to join us and experience their first s’mores, and we even ran into one of our son’s classmates during our stay. We made new memories and had a wonderful time during our stay.

My husband and I love camping. It is an inexpensive way to travel, enjoy the beauty of nature and create quality family time. But, as life became busy raising three boys, my husband and I found that we were not camping as often as we would like. Then we found Sweetwater Regional Park.



For more information about sweetwater regional park, a 500-acre regional park on summit meadow road in bonita, visit the county of san diego’s parks and recreation page at: www.co.san-diego.ca.us/parks/camping/sweetwater.html

miles

34 class ii bike path miles

Fun run family-friendly 5k saturday, may 17

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 21

The facili unv Sout Mid

Swe 201 run seas Soc Swe the Xol

Aﬂ mid mus

Explore Chula Vista

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Memorial Park on 3rd Avenue and Park Way in Chula Vista. Family members of all ages are invited to attend. For more information, visit www.chulavistacc.org or call (619) 409-9412.

Swe part guar year Coll Inno

Swe and state 79.5 from

Thre East in 20 Cou Swe

All twelve of Sweetwater's comprehensive

22 our hometown · april 2014

Plenty of fun activities such as face painting, performers, dance contests, puppets, magic show, story time, games and much more will take place. At the main stage, entertainment will include performances by local schools and local talent. A second stage will feature interactive activities, including story reading, dance contests, raffles, and more. Giveaways and other interactive entertainment will be part of the event program as well.

In the 2013-2014 school year, every 7th and 8th grade student in the Sweetwater District was assigned an iPad tablet computer as their primary learning tool allowing students to take tests, do homework and communicate with their teachers.

he Chula Vista Community Collaborative (CVCC), with other community-based organizations and business sponsors, is proud to present the 14th annual Day of the Child Community Fun Fair on Saturday, April 19. The free event provides resources to keep children safe, healthy and well informed of services in the community. Over 100 local organizations will provide invaluable information on children’s health, safety, educational brochures and interactive activities, including free cardiovascular, blood pressure and dental screenings plus educational sessions on child nutrition, mental health, breast health and poison prevention.

Three schools – Bonita Vista Middle, EastLake Middle and Eastlake High were named California Distinguished Schools in 2013. Only 19 middle and high schools in all of San Diego County earned this honor and three were from the Sweetwater District.

Sweetwater District graduation rate is higher than the state and county averages while the dropout rate is below the state and county rates. The graduation rate increased from 79.5% in 2011 to 82.2% in 2012 and dropouts decreased from 8.3% in 2011 to 6.7% in 2012.

day of the child community fun fair Children’s Opportunities, Our Responsibilities

In th stud table stud with

All t high winn Rep perc annu

Gran Med midd the Nati 2012 Scho

San Y 10 “ by th Scho achi

Eigh

Transforming the Future Transforming the Future

Transforming the with Future SweetwaterSchools Explore Chula Vista

withSweetwaterSchools SweetwaterSchools with

Sweetwater offers a one-of-a-kind promise to students participating in the Compact for Success Program— Sweetwater offers a one-of-a-kind promise tostudents students eetwater offersadmission a one-of-a-kind promise guaranteed to San Diego StatetoUniversity. This participating the Compact for Success Program— ticipating in Compact theinCompact for Success Program— year the was given an Innovation Award by the guaranteed admission to San Diego State University. This ranteed admissionand tohonored San Diego State University. Thisas the College byInnovation the National Journal year theBoard Compact was given an Award by the r the Compact was given anofInnovation Award by the Innovative K-12 Program thethe Year. College Board and honored by National Journal as the

Sweetwater schools dominated the San Diego County Academic Decathlon Sweetwater schools dominated Sweetwater schools dominated thethe title for the fifth competition. Olympian Highthe took San Diego County Academic Decathlon Sanstraight Diegoyear County Academic in a row. HilltopDecathlon High finished in second competition. Olympian High took the title for the fifth competition. Olympian High took title the Vista fifth place,year Sweetwater High finished inthe third andfor Bonita straight in a row. Hilltop High finished in second straight year in inaHigh row. Hilltop High finished in second High finished fourth place. place, Sweetwater finished in third and Bonita Vista

and county averages while the dropout rate than is below the Sweetwater District graduation rate is higher the state state and county rates. The graduation rate increased from and county averages while the dropout rate than is below eetwater District graduation rate is higher thethe state 79.5% in 2011 to 82.2% indropout 2012 andrate dropouts decreased state averages and county rates. The graduation rateisincreased from county while the below the from in 2011 to 6.7% in 2012. 79.5%8.3% in 2011 to 82.2% in 2012 and dropouts decreased

middle and highand school students high-quality instruction i A ﬂourishing Visual Performing Arts Department offers music, drama, dance, digital and graphic media arts. middle and highVisual school and students high-quality in A ﬂourishing Performing Artsinstruction Department of music, drama, dance, digital and graphic media arts. middle and high school students high-quality instruction

place, Sweetwater legeInnovative Board and honored National Journal as the K-12 Programbyofthe the Year. High finished in fourthHigh place.finished in third and Bonita Vista A flourishing Visual andplace. Performing Arts Department offe Sweetwater District graduation rate is higher than the state High finished in fourth ovative K-12 Program of the Year.

Sweetwater High won the CIF Championship in Football

the Excellence in Urban Education Award. National City Middle won this award in

nger Junior City High was named afor Gold National Middle won this award 2012 by the National Center Urbanin 2012 by the National Center for Urban dalist and among the best urban School Transformation. Transformation. dleSchool schools in the nation receiving San Ysidro School was named one of Excellence inHigh Urban Education Award. San Ysidro High School wasinnamed one of 10 “Breakthrough Schools” the nation ional City Middle won this award in 10 Schools” of in Secondary the nation by“Breakthrough the National Association 2 by the Center Urban School PrincipalsAssociation for theirfor academic by the National National of Secondary oolSchool Transformation. achievements. Principals for their academic achievements.

Ysidro School District was named one of EightHigh Sweetwater graduates received Gates Millennium Scholarships “Breakthrough Schools” in the nation Eight Sweetwater District graduates in 2013. The scholarship pays 100% of he received National Association of Secondary Gates Millennium Scholarships their undergraduate and graduate oolinPrincipals their academic 2013. Thefor scholarship pays 100% of degrees. Only 1,000 scholarships are their undergraduate and graduate ievements. distributed in the entire nation.

degrees. Only 1,000 scholarships are ht Sweetwater graduates distributed inDistrict the entire nation.

San Ysidro High School was named one of 10 “Breakthrough Schools” in the nation by the National Association of Secondary School Principals for their academic achievements.

Granger Junior High was named a Gold Medalist and among the best urban middle schools in the nation receiving the Excellence in Urban Education Award. National City Middle won this award in 2012 by the National Center for Urban School Transformation.

high schools were named Silver Medal winners in 2013 by the U.S. News & World Report, placing them among the top nine percent of schools in the nation in the annual ranking of schools.

music, dance, digital and graphicteam media e and county rates. The graduation rate increased from Sweetwater won the CIF Championship in Football in 2013;drama, TheHigh Sweetwater High Basketball wasarts. the from 8.3% in 2011 to 6.7% in 2012. 5% Three in 2011schools to 82.2% in 2012 and dropouts decreased 2013; The Sweetwater High Basketball team wasand thefinished the runner-up in the CIF championship game – Bonita Vista Middle, EastLake Middle and Sweetwater High won the CIFgame Championship in m 8.3% in schools 2011 inVista 2012. Three – 6.7% Bonita Middle, EastLake Middle and CIFSouthwest championship theFootba seasoninatthe 26-2. High wonand thefinished Division 2 title i Eastlake Highto were named California Distinguished Schools runner-up 2013; The Sweetwater High Basketball team the High 19 were namedand California Distinguished at 26-2. Southwest Division 2 was title in Soccer and San YsidroHigh wonwon the the Division 4 CIF title; and inEastlake 2013. Only middle high schools in all of Schools San Diego season in 2013.earned Only 19this middle and high schools in all of San Diego Soccer and San Ysidro won the Division 4 CIF title; and runner-up in the CIF championship game and finished th ee County schools – Bonita Vista Middle, EastLake Middle and Sweetwater High graduate, Joe Corona, was a member o honor and three were from the County earned this honor and three were from the Sweetwater High graduate, Joe Corona, was a member of season at 26-2. Southwest High won the Division 2 title tlake High were named California Distinguished Schools the 2012 Mexican soccer league champions, the Tijuana Sweetwater District. District.and high schools in all of San Diego the 2012 and Mexican soccer league champions, the4Tijuana Soccer San Ysidro won the Division CIF title; and 013.Sweetwater Only 19 middle Xolos. th th Xolos. In the 2013-2014 school year, every 7 and 8 grade Sweetwater High graduate, Joe Corona, was a member untyInearned this honor andyear, three were from the 2013-2014 school every 7th and 8th the grade Sweetwater District continues to new openschool new school student in the Sweetwater District was assigned an iPad theThe 2012 Mexican soccer league the Tijuana eetwater District. The Sweetwater District continues to champions, open student in the Sweetwater District was assigned an iPad facilities thanks to Prop O. Since 2011, new facilities tablet computer as their primary learning tool allowing Xolos. thanks to Prop O. Since 2011, new facilities were were facilities tablet computer as their primary learning tool allowing th th unveiled at National Middle, Montgomery High and students tests, dohomework homework and8communicate communicate he 2013-2014 school year, every 7 and grade unveiled at National City City Middle, Montgomery High and students to to take take tests, do and Southwest Middle, Southwest High and Montgomery with their teachers. The Sweetwater District continues to open new schoo dentwith in the Sweetwater Southwest Middle, Southwest High and Montgomery their teachers. District was assigned an iPad Middle. Middle. facilities thanks to Prop O. Since 2011, new facilities wer et computer as their primary learning tool allowing All comprehensive Alltwelve twelve of Sweetwater's Sweetwater's comprehensive unveiled at National City Middle, Montgomery High and dents to take tests, do homework and communicate high namedSilver SilverMedal Medal highschools schools were named Southwest Middle, Southwest High and Montgomery h their teachers. winners in 2013 by winners in by the the U.S. U.S.News News&&World World Middle. Report,placing placing them Report, them among amongthe thetop topnine nine twelve of Sweetwater's comprehensive percent of of schools schools in percent in the thenation nationininthe the h schools were named Silver Medal annual ranking of schools. annual ranking of schools. ners in 2013 by the U.S. News & World Granger Junior was named High wasthe named aGold Gold port,Granger placing Junior them High among topanine Medalist and and among among the urban thebest bestin urban centMedalist of schools in the nation the middle schools in the nation receiving schools in the nation receiving ual middle ranking of schools. the Excellence in Urban Education Award.

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 23

ON TOpiC

From books to boogie by lindy robbins

from books to boogie at “bon appÉtit” You are cordially invited to thoroughly enjoy yourself and contribute to your community at the same time.

Whether you are a bibliophile or simply enjoy a great party, you’re invited to Bon Appétit: Celebrate Food, Wine & Our Libraries, the popular, annual evening of fun that benefits the Chula Vista Public Library Foundation. Slip on your favorite pair of jeans or casual outfit on Saturday evening, April 26, and join us at the Otay Ranch Town Center Mall at the food court area from 5 to 9 p.m., right outside the Otay Ranch Branch Library, our nationally recognized express branch. You'll be able to meet the director of our library system, Betty Waznis, and other friendly individuals in your community. There will be no time to read at this fast-paced event. Instead, be prepared to sample a variety of delicious tastes from local Chula Vista restaurants; sip some wine, craft beer, vodka, or tequila; and dance to your favorite rock and salsa tunes with local DJ John Phillips of KSDS 88.3. You will have opportunities to bid on great prizes, all generously donated by community supporters, and can shop our silent auction and its exciting baskets and gift certificates. Enter the raffle for a fabulous $1,000 shopping spree at Otay Ranch Town Center for only $5. And finally, in our live auction, you will be able to bid on VIP concert ticket packages to top acts such as Dave Matthews Band, Journey and the Steve Miller Band, One Republic and Blake Shelton, all appearing this season at Sleeptrain Amphitheater. Last year, our favorite librarian-turneddirector, Betty Waznis, won a photo portrait package starring her Chinese crested dog; his photo still hangs in a prominent place in her home. This year she is hoping to bid on a basket of coffees, teas and chocolates to share with her husband, a retired chemical engineer and “mad scientist.” But, he sounds as if he might

24 our hometown ·april 2014

 Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!

prefer winning the chance of becoming a “garbologist” for a day. This popular silent auction offering includes a generous certificate for trash service, plus a tour of our regional landfill and a ride on a garbage truck! Betty promises that there are equally creative and exciting baskets for every interest. This annual event allows our local community to join forces to further enrich library service in this unique venue. “The Otay Ranch Town Center is an outstanding community partner, supporting the library and so many other worthy community activities. We are lucky to have it in Chula Vista,” said Betty. As director, she is looking forward to expanding the current library facility footprint at the mall into the space formerly occupied by Geppetto’s Toy Store. The goal is to create a flexible community space where the library and other community organizations and businesses can hold meetings, classes, tutoring and other activities. There will be room for study, storytime and wi-fi use as well. You will even be able to apply for a passport at the library’s passport acceptance desk, also planned for the new space. Your support at the fundraiser will assist in these and other future projects and will allow our community to grow in a positive direction.

Celebrate Food, Wine & Our libraries Live

make reservations for

EASTER BRUNCH FROM 9AM - 2PM

Mus ic

KARTHURS A Date s - ca OKE sab

ellacv .com

A La Carte Menu | Complimentary Champagne

$799 . LUNCH SPECIALS! Wednesday - Friday with Soup or Salad

Penne Elena* Chicken, Shrimp extra Panini*or Lasagna* Spaghetti & Meatballs* Personal Pizza

50% BOTTLES OF WINE Mondays

excludes cellar selections

HOST PRIVATE EVENTS HERE!

No Room Charge!

Enclosed Patio seats 80 Private Room seats 18

619-216-5900

www.casabellacv.com 2330 Proctor Valley Road Contemporary Italian Cuisine Chula Vista

Tickets for the event are $40 and can be purchased in advance at any Chula Vista Public Library branch, Chula Vista Public Library Foundation members or at the door the evening of the event. Shopping spree raffle tickets are also available at the same venues, and the raffle winner need not be present to win. This event is for those 21 and over. For more information, see www.chulavistalibrary.com or www. cvplfoundation.net. Bon Appétit!

pictures shown from bon appetit 2013 | photos courtesy of photo by elsa

5-08-14

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 25

education

The Sweetwater District's Legacy by Edward M. Brand, Ed.D.

The Sweetwater District’s Legacy The Sweetwater Union High School District has a legacy that spans across nearly 100 years. Since 1920, Sweetwater has dedicated itself to educating students in the South County and providing them with the highest quality education possible.

Through numerous partnerships with our feeder elementary districts, local governments, the business community, higher education, social service agencies and thousands of community members, the Sweetwater District continues to thrive and succeed. The Compact for Success, a guaranteed admission program with San Diego State University (SDSU), has grown to a point where one out of every six freshmen at the school is now a Sweetwater graduate. Out of 6,000 graduates from the district, 1,000 were accepted to SDSU and over 600 enrolled for the 20132014 school year. The program has been recognized at local, regional and national levels, including being named as the most innovative K-12 program by the National Journal in 2013. Graduation rates for students have continuously increased, while dropout rates have simultaneously decreased, with Sweetwater students outperforming both the County of San Diego and State of California averages. Students in the Sweetwater District have one of the highest A-G course completion rates in the State of California, ensuring that upon graduation, students will be eligible to attend

g in ur ings v r se t O Sav e R bou ub 00 w A l ,7 No sk ’s C $1 A der ver un o o F

Information Center Now Open Are you a U.S. Veteran or a surviving spouse of a Veteran? If so, join us for a Veterans Benefits Seminar.

(619) 271-4385

Thursday, April 24th 1:00-3:00 p.m. At Casa Bella Restaurant

2334 Proctor Valley Road, Suite 104, Chula Vista | Lic Pending 26 our hometown · april 2014

the University of California and California State University college systems. Eight Sweetwater District graduates received Gates Millennium Scholarships. The scholarship pays 100% of their undergraduate and graduate degrees. Only 1,000 scholarships are distributed in the entire nation. Sweetwater Schools are recognized annually by U.S. News & World Report as being among the best in the annual ranking of schools. In 2013 all twelve of Sweetwater's comprehensive high schools were named Silver Medal winners, placing them in the top nine percent of schools in the nation. Three schools—Bonita Vista Middle, Eastlake Middle and Eastlake High— were named California Distinguished Schools in 2013. Only 19 middle and high schools in all of San Diego County earned this honor, and three were from the Sweetwater District. These are only a few of the accomplishments of the Sweetwater Union High School District from the past year; surely there will be many more to mention in 2014. Is the Sweetwater Union High School District going through a difficult time? Yes. Are there actions that we can take to improve the district? Of course there are. We welcome a dialogue on how to move forward. However, we also want to make clear that Sweetwater schools, students and staff are moving forward as an organization with all stakeholders in maximizing student achievement. The upcoming elections are an opportunity for members of the community to take action and either run for the school board or find a candidate whom they can support. Now is the time to be heard. The history and legacy of the Sweetwater Union High School District did not happen by accident. They happened through the hard work and dedication of the entire South Bay community. Sweetwater plans on continuing these efforts of student success now and into the future.

UR, call Schedule your VIP TO 5 or email 22 t. ex , (619) 479-4141 chulavistagc.com r@ ge na ma privateevent

V I P TO U R

C H U L A V I S TA G O L F CO U R S E

DATE April 24, 2014 TIME 5:30 p.m.

Y You’re Yo ou’re iinvited nvi vitted tto o our exclusive Teen Themed Open House! House! Enjoy the latest trends in event décor, meet with local vendors, and taste samples of our most popular menu items. Chula Vista Golf Course 4475 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA www.chulavistagc.com

Book a site tour and your teen will receive a $5 gift card for Baskin Robbins!* *Offer limited to the first 20 site tours.

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 27

education

28 our hometown 路 april 2014

Education

Q&A The Chula Vista Elementary School District is experiencing dramatic changes in finance, facilities and academic instruction from renewed enrollment growth. Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D., recently shared his thoughts about what this means for the District’s 29,200 students, parents and more than 2,600 employees.

with Dr. Escobedo

The District is at an all-time high in terms of student enrollment. How is the District preparing for further enrollment growth? Dr. Escobedo: We opened our newest school, the Enrique S. Camarena School, in the Winding Walk community of Chula Vista last July, and planning is already underway for another new school, which would be located in the Otay Ranch community of Chula Vista. We expect our next school to open in just a few years.

What is the District’s greatest need? E: Closing the achievement gap between our English learners and our overall student population. In English/language arts, that gap has narrowed to 12 percentage points, and in mathematics, it is down to single digits—7 percentage points. We won’t be satisfied until we close that gap entirely. We will continue to use web-based programs—learning accelerators—to positively impact students’ learning experiences. These learning accelerators help supplement classroom instruction.

How will the state’s new Local Control Funding Formula help address that need in terms of funding? E: The state’s new Local Control Funding Formula means districts like ours will receive additional funding for low-income students, English learners and foster youth. We will be required to produce Local Control and Accountability Plans, demonstrating how increased resources are linked to meeting the needs of all students. In tandem, the funding formula and accountability plans increase local decision-making authority while also enhancing transparency and accountability. Parents, teachers and students will help our schools determine academic priorities in support of student achievement. The state’s shift to local control is very much aligned to how we have long operated in our District, where student-based decision-making is an expectation. Now, we will have additional resources to help us close the achievement gap.

 Follow Our Hometown Magazine on Facebook!

How will this funding help you prepare the future workforce? E: Funding alone is not the answer. It’s more about what goes on in the classroom. That’s where the new Common Core State Standards come into play. Students are being asked to explain their reasoning, deepen their understanding and think more critically about what they are learning. A student who will meet the new college and career readiness standards will be someone who problem solves, collaborates and perseveres.

How has the District allocated funding for the Common Core State Standards? E: The Board of Education recently approved a $4.6 million Common Core implementation spending plan; $2.2 million is allocated for technology purchases. The remainder is for teacher professional development and instructional materials.

What kinds of technology purchases has the District made with these funds? E: The District purchased 4,123 Asus Transformer Book T100 hybrid devices. Each device is a 10-inch tablet and keyboard combo. The T100 is billed as “more fun than a laptop and more capable than a tablet.” We will use them to ensure seamless technology integration with classroom instruction. Schools with an enrollment of 749 students or fewer will receive three mobile carts with 93 devices and headphones; schools with an enrollment of 750 or above will receive four mobile carts with 124 devices and headphones.

What is this business about unifying all Chula Vista schools into a K-12 system? E: A Chula Vista City Council member has proposed unification of the Sweetwater Union High School District’s middle and high schools in Chula Vista with schools in our District. We understand how this may appeal to some families. When you get into the details, however, it becomes a lot more complicated. We have serious reservations.

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 29

calendar 04/

ApriL

18 good friday

chula vista chamber mixer @ 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.; Mix, mingle, and meet future business partners; $10 for Members & $20 Non-member fee; Hosted by Casa Bella at 2330 Proctor Valley Road in Chula Vista; For more info or to RSVP, call (619) 420-6603 or email info@ chulavistachamber.org

Out & About

day of the child

@ 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Memorial Park on 3rd Avenue and Park Way in Chula Vista; All ages welcome; For more info, call (619) 409-9412 or visit www. chulavistacc.org

Prom Jam @ 1- 4 p.m.

at the Otay Ranch Town Center; Get the latest on prom trends, enjoy fashion shows, minimakeovers, live music; Prom Jam photo booth and more; Open to the public; For more info, visit www.otayranchtowncenter.com

family history fair @ 10 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. at the Chula Vista Stake Center, 1590 East H Street in Chula Vista; For experienced genealogists or those who want to get started; Seminars for ages 12+; Free event hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints; Register online at http://bit.ly/M4lQPv (case sensitive); For more info, contact Mark Donnelly at MarkDonnelly@ yahoo.com april pools day @ 12 - 3 p.m. at Parkway Aquatic Center, 385 Park Way in downtown Chula Vista; Children 6 months to 16 years can participate in free swim lessons; Pre-register by calling (619) 409-1985 or email aquatics@ chulavistaca.gov prior to April 11

20 Easter Sunday & weekend services

EastLake Church, Good Friday (Special) Service @ 7pm; Saturday Service @ 5pm and 6:30pm; Sunday Services @ 9:30am, 11am, and 12:30pm Lighthouse Christian Fellowship, Eastlake High School Performing Arts Center: Sunday Services @ 9:30am, 11:30am and 1:30pm Calvary San Diego, 1771 East Palomar Street in Chula Vista 91913: Sunday Easter Services @ 9am & 11am; Spanish translation and childcare provided. Berean Bible Baptist Church, 881 Kuhn Drive, #102 in Chula Vista 91914: Sunday Service @ 11am Parkway Hills Church of the Nazarene, 1227 Eastlake Parkway in Chula Vista 91915: Sunday Services @ 9am and 10:45am

Foundry, Sunday Sunrise Service @ 6:15am at Mountain Hawk Park; Sunday Easter Service @ 10am at 861 Harold Place in Chula Vista 91914 Community Congregational Church, 276 F Street in Chula Vista 91910: Sunday Easter Service @ 8:15am and 10am New Hope Community Church, 2720 Olympic Parkway in Chula Vista 91915: Sunday Easter Sunrise @ 7am; Sunday Easter/Regular @ 8:15am, 9:45am and 11:15am The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1590 East H Street in Chula Vista 91913: Sunday Easter Service @ 9am & 11am The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 790 Ranch Del Rey Parkway in Chula Vista 91910: Sunday Easter Service @ 9am & 11am La Roca, 880 Kuhn Drive in Chula Vista 91914: Sunday Easter Service @ 9:30am & 11am Cornerstone Church of San Diego, Good Friday @ 5:30pm (Spanish) & 7pm (English); Saturday @ 5:30pm (Spanish) & 7pm (English); Sunday Service @ 8am, 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30 (Spanish) and 6:30pm Concordia, 1695 Discovery Falls Drive in Chula Vista 91915: Sunday Easter Service @ 8am (Classic Worship); 10am & 11:30am (Fam Jam)

Helping hands day of service @ 8 a.m.-

12 p.m.; Paint, landscape, remove graffiti & attend a food drive; Students can earn comCorpus Christi, 450 Corral Canyon Road in Bonita 91902: Saturday Easter munity service hours at Castle Vigil @ 8pm; Sunday Mass @ 7:30am, Park High School, 1395 Hilltop 9am, 9:10am (Parish Center); 10:30am, Dr. in Chula Vista; Invite your 12pm, and 1:30pm (Spanish); **No friends and neighbors! 5pm Mass on Easter Sunday

/14 save these dates in

may

Project fairway 1st annual golf tourney @ Eastlake Country Club; Registration begins at 7 a.m.; Proceeds to benefit High Tech High; For more info, contact Ray Trinidad at (619) 5912506 or email rtrinidad@ hightechhigh.org

6th annual chula vista fun run @ 8 a.m.; Walk, stroll or run the family friendly 5k course at the Olympic Training Center; Register for the Fun Run at www. chulavistaca.gov/rec.

Eastlake Business Association every Monday 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Oggi’s Eastlake; eastlakebusiness.org Farmer’s Market Otay Ranch Town Center every Tuesday @ 4-8 p.m.; Third Avenue Village every Thursday @ 3-7 p.m. Kids Ready To Read every Thursday 11:15 a.m. at Otay Ranch Branch Library; Interactive storytime program; chulavistalibrary.com

30 our hometown · april 2014

Please note events and times are subject to change.

Saturday, April 26

cvplfoundation.net

at any Chula Vista Public Library Branch Civic Center (365 F Street) South Chula Vista (389 Orange Avenue) Otay Ranch (2015 Birch Road, Otay Ranch Town Center Food Pavilion)

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

westmont

at san miguel ranch

photo credit to ana romo; contributed by Keren deleon; pictured from left to right: isabel lozano and ellie belanger, community relations directors & the buswell Family

Westmont at San Miguel Ranch is scheduled to open in late summer 2014, and the Welcome Center is already accepting reservations. Those who reserve early will become part of the Founders Club and enjoy significant savings. Westmont at San Miguel Ranch will provide full-service retirement living options that include Independent Living, Assisted Living and the Compass Rose® Memory Care program. Options include Studios, 1 Bedroom or 2 Bedroom apartments with kitchens and washer/dryers. The month-to-month rent includes most utilities, weekly housekeeping with linen service and shuttle service. The community offers a host of amenities, activities and services that include restaurant-style dining, the Rolling Hills Theatre, San Miguel Salon, Library, Media Room, Olympian Fitness Center offering a host of fitness activities including nature walks and two activity rooms for gaming, arts and crafts. Angie Ehler, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, says, “There will be so much to do that people will not have a chance to get bored.” Westmont at San Miguel Ranch is at the corner of Mt. Miguel Road and Proctor Valley Road. Daily tours are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Welcome Center, 2334 Proctor Valley Road, Suite 104, Chula Vista. Westmont is also hosting a Veterans’ Aid & Attendance workshop. This is a service-related pension benefit to help veterans or surviving spouses who are 65 or older to transition into home-care or assisted living. The workshop will take place at Casa Bella on Thursday, April 24, from 1-2:30 p.m. For info or reservations call (619) 271-4385.

32 our hometown · april 2014

ViVint Solar Ashton Buswell, Sales Manager with Vivint Solar, is a family-oriented businessman who is heavily involved with his community. He is an active youth leader at his church, a member of the Eastlake Business Association and an Eagle Scout. Ashton has been married for seven years to his beautiful wife Lidia and has two wonderful daughters, Hallie and Jane. As a resident of Eastlake, Ashton strives to support and participate in his community by thinking globally but acting locally. He says, “Providing a safer and cleaner environment for the future of my family and community is why I decided to work for this company. Our goal is to make solar power understandable, affordable and accessible to qualified homeowners.” Many solar-power options are available today, but Vivint Solar’s no-pressure approach to educating families about the benefits of solar power helps the business stand out. Ashton encourages questions and understands the decision-making process. His business helps homeowners go green and save 20 to 50 percent on their electric bill. Vivint Solar has revolutionized the way consumers understand solar power. Instead of waiting 10 or 12 years to break even with an average $30,000 solar-panel system, Vivint Solar helps homeowners start saving from day one by paying zero dollars for installation and equipment. In exchange, homeowners simply pay a monthly, low, flat rate for their solar electricity. It pays to go green! For more information, go to Vivintsolar.com. You may also contact Ashton at Abuswell@vivintsolar.com or (619) 941-8201.

Our Local Business

On your doorstep

Increase your cashhow with

Family services

PO & AR Financing

1-866-988-6868 Funding small businesses with the potential to grow -

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.

Because we are not a bank.

letitia a. stanton-aicher ms, ccc-slP

Learn more:

(855) 619-6191

info@meridianpo.com www.meridianpoonance.com

www.LSABT.com

Need someone that speaks fluent insurance? Bernardo Vasquez, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0F45943 460 Third Avenue, Suite A Chula Vista, CA 91910 Bus: 619-425-6560 Cell: 619-876-0056

1001183.1

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

april 2014 · ourhometownmag.com 33

resident spotlight

WEBER FAMILY

THE COUPLE LOVES TO TRAVEL AND BE TOURISTS, EVEN IN THEIR OWN CITY, SO THEY OFTEN GO TO THE LATEST PLAYS OR MUSICALS, TAKE IN A MUSEUM, OR KAYAK ALONG THE HARBOR.

When asked where they’re from, Mark and Amber Weber each point to one of their hands, which makes a pretty decent map of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. They grew up in the small city of Fremont, home of Gerber baby food, beautiful forests, farmland and Dutch heritage. Both did their undergraduate work at the University of Michigan, where they began dating. Mark, coordinator of spiritual care at Scripps Mercy Hospital Chula Vista, moved to California after finishing seminary in New Jersey. He wanted to work in a place where he could use and grow his Spanish-speaking skills while counseling patients, families and staff. To balance the emotions of spiritual care, Mark learned to surf, literally washing away the stresses of each day. He also found the swap meets in the San Diego region to be full of treasures. Growing up with Nintendo’s 8-bit NES, Mark enjoyed playing video games. Soon that hobby developed into a second job. Mark created VideoGameMuseum. com and sells video game-related repair parts and tools to people around the world. A collector himself, his goal is to help others create and preserve their own “mini museums.” Considering the fact that Mark is both a chaplain and a geek, “I have a well-balanced husband,” Amber says of her partner, laughing.

34 our hometown · april 2014

Mark says it took nearly 12 years of long-distance dating for the couple to realize that, quite simply, life is better together. After college, Amber joined Teach For America as a corps member, teaching public school in Baltimore, Maryland while earning her MAT from Johns Hopkins University. She then took her teaching skills and passion for the arts to Washington, DC, where she interned at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This prepared her to manage the education department of Spivey Hall near Atlanta, Georgia, where she stayed for five years. Striving to be a better manager and leader, Amber then earned her MBA at Indiana University. Finally, after marrying in 2011, Amber joined Mark in California. A few months after getting settled, she was hired as a consultant on a grade-level reading project in Chula Vista and transitioned into the full-time, grantfunded position of Chief Service Officer in Mayor Cox’s office. In this role, she continued working with community groups to help students read fluently and developed the Graduation Coach campaign. Amber’s favorite pastimes are playing the piano and reading a good book, but she enjoys the swap meets as much as Mark. The couple loves to travel and be tourists, even in their own city, so they often go to the latest plays or musicals, take in a museum or kayak along the harbor. When they arrive home, they’re greeted by their Siamese cat who, of course, is named Atari. photo credit to Kyle dufendach

Easter for Everyone Put on your finest clothes—or come totally casual—but be sure not to miss out on an Easter event for the whole family. Choose the time that best fits your schedule and then enjoy music that rocks, a live concert and Easter Egg Hunt for the kids, and even some special gifts! Easter is the time for fresh starts, new beginnings and a celebration Lighthouse-style! Join us for a message called Life Changing Perspectives.

SUNDAY APRIL 20 SERVICE TIMES 9:30 & 11:30AM AND 1:30PM THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AT EASTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT LIGHTHOUSE?

Call us at 619.427.9700 or go online: lighthouseeastlake.com

You know how to make money. We know how to help you keep it. With wealth comes great responsibility. Every dollar should be cared for, nurtured and preserved. In other words, your wealth must be managed. As a Financial Advisor, I have the experience and resources to assist in managing the many facets of your financial worldâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;from investments and risk management to estate planning. By working together, we can create a detailed Gerald Ramirez

wealth plan to help protect and grow your wealth.

Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor Vice President Financial Advisor 4350 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite 1000 San Diego, CA 92122 858-643-5012 gerald.ramirez@ms.com www.morganstanley.com/fa/ gerald.ramirez Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters. ÂŠ 2013 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. GP11-01363P-N09/11 7308122 MAR009 10/12