BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
SAN DIEGO A.C.T.I.V.E CHIROPRACTOR & WELLNESS CENTER DR. UYEN THOMPSON
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT JON BIGORNIA
Lestwe forget HONORING ALL WHO HAVE SERVED
november 2013
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CONTENTS
NOV E M BER 2 0 1 3
From the Editor...
T
here is no doubt we are a military town. Certainly, the folks in Chula Vista know the positive impact of the military. Thousands of local residents are serving, have served or are family members of people who have served our country in a formal way. It is with a sincere sense of gratitude that Our Hometown salutes our service men and women, current and former, who enable all of us to enjoy such treasured freedoms. In my family, my grandfather Robert Navarro used to enthrall us growing up with his ability to identify the specific plane flying overhead without looking up to the sky. He said he could make out the type of plane it was based simply on the sound it made. He picked up this unique skill serving as a mechanic for B17s in the 8th Air Force Army Air Corps during World War II. Several of his immediate family members, my great uncles, also served in the armed forces at that time. This tradition continued with the next generation as both my uncles Bob Graham and Frank Stamp served for years in the U.S. Navy, along with several of my cousins. It’s not often that I’ve taken the time to formally thank them for what they have done, but I am incredibly proud of all of my family members’ service and that they did do so willingly and faithfully. Perhaps it is the same in your household. Do you have people who have donned a military uniform and gone out to serve our country? Are your friends or neighbors dealing with the separation from a loved one that occurs each time someone near to them deploys for an extended time? This Veterans Day why not take a moment to say thank you or do something kind to show how much you appreciate their service or support what they are going through. Skip Crane and Rick Richardson, the local residents and military veterans we’ve highlighted in this particular issue, are just two of the thousands of people locally who have made a difference as a result of their service. We hope you’ll join us in saying, “
Thank
Mike Minjares EDITOR, OUR HOMETOWN
You. ”
14 VETERANS SPECIAL 04 BRAVO Announcements
05 NEWS On your doorstep
12 ON TOPIC Solar Energy Seniors
14 FEATURE STORY Lest We Forget
19 SCHOOL NEWS Gratitude
22 CALENDAR Out & About
23 RECIPE Chocolate-CoffeeCookie-Concoction
24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS San Diego A.C.T.I.V.E Chiropractor & Wellness Center Dr. Thompson
26 RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Jon Bigornia
BRAVO To NEISHA HERNANDEZ, owner of Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy and Executive Director of the Chula Vista Ballet Company on receiving the City of Chula Vista’s 2013 Gayle McCandliss Art Award for contributions in the arts. Hernandez was recognized for her leadership in advancing the mission of the Chula Vista Ballet Company – Bring Art to Your Life! Without question Hernandez has dedicated her heart and soul to the visual and performing arts. To the LIBRARY AT OTAY RANCH on gaining its own advocacy organization – the Friends of the Chula Vista Library Otay Ranch chapter. The chapter will oversee fund-raising, volunteer recruitment and public advocacy efforts on behalf of the 3,000-square-foot library, which opened in April 2012. Mary Koppel, a longtime member of the Friends, will serve as president of the group, with Joseph Mazares as vice president, Beth Coleman as secretary and Judy Faas as treasurer. Pam Kesegi and Suzanne Catanzaro will serve as membersat-large. “The East Side community has already shown us that they really value this library,” said Library Director Betty Waznis. “It’s exciting to see that the community is also interested in supporting us and helping us grow.”
Look what great things your community is up to...
Annual San Diego County Teachers of the Year event in October. The six recognized teachers were: DAVID COBAIN (Sweetwater High), A.J. COLARUSSO (Eastlake High), HELEN FARIAS (Palomar High), SANDRA HODGE (Alternative Education), CASEY SAYATOVICH (Rancho Del Rey Middle) and MELISA O’DONOGHUE (Hilltop Middle). Mr. Cobian earned additional recognition being named a top-10 finalist. With approximately 26,000 educators in the region, being selected as one of the best in San Diego is quite an accomplishment for our local educators. Nominees were judged on their teaching philosophies, ability to serve as ambassadors of education and their students’ achievements.
To PRIDE MARTIAL ARTS on its successful showing at the American Taekwondo Association World Championships in Little Rock, Arkansas. This year, Pride Martial Arts, located in EastLake, had seven students qualify to compete for world titles and came home with one silver and four gold medals. Congratulations go out to: LIZBETH AHN, Owner of Pride Martial Arts, on winning two gold medals in Traditional Forms and Traditional Weapons; ANDREA VEGA, 15, on winning gold in Traditional Weapons and silver in Traditional Forms; ISSABELLA FERIA, 14, on winning two golds in Traditional Forms and Weapons; RAYNA VALLANDINGHAM, 10, on capturing gold in Extreme Forms; and JESSICA GRIPPO, 14, on bringing home a silver in Traditional Weapons.
To SIX OUTSTANDING TEACHERS, from the Sweetwater Union High School District for being among the 45 educators competing at the
CONTRIBUTE TO BRAVO, send a quick note to Our Hometown’s editor at CREATIVE.OHTM@GMAIL.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 · NOVEMBER 2013
On your doorstep
UNITED RUN FOR THE HUNGRY
Start Thanksgiving Day Right
PUBLISHED BY Standout Media Group, Inc
Thousands of caring San Diego County residents will lace up their running and walking shoes Thanksgiving morning and head downtown for the annual United Run for the Hungry 5K/10K Run/ Walk. This run/walk – held Thursday, November 28 this year – continues to grow each year because of its great mix of ingredients: an awesome course starting at Broadway Circle that travels through the Gaslamp and East Village, fun entertainment, tasty refreshments and the cause. The annual Thanksgiving Day Run for the Hungry event has supported the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and Jewish Family Service of San Diego’s food programs annually since 2001. Proceeds from the event directly benefit the hungry in San Diego County through Jewish Family Service’s Food Assistance programs – Foodmobile, Hunger Advocacy Network, Hand Up Youth Food Pantry, and Hand Up Teen Leadership – and the Jacobs & Cushman
San Diego Food Bank. United Run for the Hungry helps these vital programs feed the many hungry families in San Diego who are affected by the current economic crisis and the many unseen families who face hunger on an ongoing basis. Families and individuals are encouraged to bring their dogs and dress up in costumes. Approximately 3,500 participants, 200 volunteers and 15 vendors participate in this event annually.
PUBLISHER Michael Monaco
DON’T WANT TO RUN OR WALK? MORE THAN 200
VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED
Don’t want to run or walk? More than 200 volunteers are needed to help make United Run for the Hungry a success. Volunteers will help with registration, water stations, food stations, finish/start line and more. Volunteers will receive a free race t-shirt. Large groups can register to volunteer together. For more information about volunteering, call (858) 637-3050. To register for the event, go to unitedrunforthehungry.org
“TIS THE SEASON FOR SINATRA” Sister Dolores Social Outreach Gala Continuing in its commitment to highlighting the charitable in Chula Vista, the opportunity to give back has come along just in time for the holidays. The Sister Dolores Social Outreach Program is having its 11th annual Gala on Saturday, December 7, at St. Pius X Event Center. The Gala serves as an opportunity for the program to honor specific volunteers (this year the honorees are John and Terry Kingston and Mrs. Marie Mendes) and their commitment to the homeless and those in need, but also serves as one of the program’s main sources of income.
This year’s Gala draws its inspiration from Frank Sinatra, hence the title “Tis The Season For Sinatra.” Over fifty-plus volunteers come together to create a one-of-kind night that includes dinner, cocktails, music and a live/silent auction. Most importantly, the night captures the spirit of the local non-profit. The social services program last year provided meals for 5,000 people and distributed over 18 tons of food. More than just meals and assistance, the program provides hope for those who benefit from it. It also provides a reminder of the human connection and kindness which the program’s volunteers practice every day. You can learn more about the gala and the outreach program at www.strosecv.com. No doubt Sister Dolores “aka” Mama Dee would have loved to be apart of this, though not one for the spotlight she loved “a reason to have a party!”
EDITORIAL Mike Minjares
DESIGNER Elsa Flores
DESIGNER Melissa Monroy
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
NOVEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 5
On your doorstep...
S t rik e Up t he Ba nd! PARADE BAND & COMMUNITY FESTIVAL IS HERE
Students from all over Southern California will showcase their musical and marching talents at the annual Parade, Marching Band Review and Community Festival on Saturday, November 9 at the Otay Ranch Town Center. Put on by the local Parade Band Foundation, Inc, in partnership with the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce and the South Bay Family YMCA, this entertaining community event salutes our veterans and features 30 award-winning high school marching bands competing for scholarships, grants and prizes sponsored by Chula Vista’s leading businesses, along with Chula Vista alumni groups and special donors. The event kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with the Parade and Marching Band review and continues with the Community Festival taking place from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The community is invited to come on out and cheer on the hundreds of young musicians and welcome the many Community Parade participants. After the parade, stay and enjoy the fun activities, live music, carnival games and delicious food at the Community Festival. For more information on the Parade Band Review visit ChulaVistaParade.org
6 OUR HOMETOWN ·NOVEMBER 2013
On your doorstep
DEAR FOLLOWERS,
OUR HOMETOWN
FACEBOOK PAGE
HAS MOVED!
Please like our new page! Search “Our Hometown Magazine” on Facebook, or copy and paste our new URL: facebook.com/ ourhometownchulavista
Thank you for your continuous support!
Jolly ol’ Santa due to arrive I N C H U L A V I S TA Local families will want to circle November 23 on the calendar as the 7th Annual Santa Parade & Tree Lighting takes place from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Main Street at the Otay Ranch Town Center. Kids and kids-at-heart will want to be on hand to get a close up look at the 30-foot tree with dazzling lights that will be lit for the first time this holiday season at 6:00 that evening. The colorful parade will follow as Chula Vista welcomes the Jolly ol’ Santa to the mall for the holidays. Bring the whole family for
this traditional holiday parade down Otay Ranch Town Center’s Main Street. Plan to come a little early to grab a seat along the parade route. Families
The 30-foot tree with dazzling lights will be lit for the first time... are welcome to bring blankets and chairs. More information is available be calling (619) 656-1393 or visiting the events page on the website at otayranchtowncenter.com
NOVEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 7
On your doorstep
VICTORIAN COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
The 2nd Annual Victorian Country Christmas at the Chula Vista Elks Lodge will take place on Friday, November 22 and Saturday, November 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Event planners expect there will be more crafters and quality gift items than last year and the community event will once again be offering hourly entertainment on stage. The Victorian Country Christmas will once again help to support veterans and children in the local area. To this end, the Marines will be on site collecting Toys for Tots in support of Wounded Warriors camped at Balboa and Camp Pendleton. A donation box will be set up starting November 10 for anyone wanting to drop off a toy before the event. As for entertainment, the Action Impact Ministries will be on stage at 10:00 a.m. each day. In addition, there will be singers, fashion shows, bell ringers and Jim McNay will perform at 1:00 p.m. each day. At 3:00, folks won’t want to miss the opportunity to hear the Bonita Vista Sound Unlimited and Music Machine! In addition, there are two “High Teas” at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Tickets for these are $15 and must be purchased in advance by calling Kim Coronado at (619) 240-0098 or the lodge at (619) 421-2011. Come on out and get started on your holiday shopping and merriment. 8 OUR HOMETOWN · NOVEMBER 2013
Thankful Thanksgiving AT NEISHA’S KIDS NIGHT OUT Local kids will have the opportunity to express what they are thankful for at this month’s Kids Night Out at Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy. Set for Saturday, November 9, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., parents can enjoy a well deserved night off while the kids are off having fun eating pizza, dancing, making crafts, listening to stories and watching a movie, all relating
to being thankful this holiday season. So bring the kiddos to Neisha’s and relax. Reservations begin November 1, and the event costs $25 per child ages 3-12 if you pre-register, $35 if you wait until the day of the event, on first-come first-served basis. For more information or to register, go online to neishas.com or call (619) 585-1133
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Titanbots to Host First LEGO LEAGUE TOURNEY Eastlake High School’s gymnasium will be the site for a fun, entertaining and educational competition as the school’s Titanbots program hosts the FIRST LEGO League Qualifying Tournament on November 17. This 24-team tournament, which runs from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., is co-hosted by SPAWAR and Eastlake High School FRC Titanbots and serves as a qualifying tournament for the Southern California Championship at LEGOLAND in December. Free and open to the public, the event features teams showcasing their engineering, robotics and teamwork skills in challenging competition. Food will be available for purchase. To learn more about the FIRST LEGO League and this event, check out cafirst.org
On your doorstep
SEASONAL FUN ARRIVES AT VILLAGE WALK AT EASTLAKE
The award-winning Eastlake High School Show Choir will perform at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 1 just before the first snowfall of the season at Village Walk at EastLake in Chula Vista. Each night through December 24, children will put on their free “magic” glasses to watch the snow fall in rainbow colors at 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The magical snowfall, with choreographed holiday music and lights, draws people from throughout San Diego County to gather near the Koi Pond at Village Walk at EastLake, located at the intersection of EastLake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista. Carolers comprised of local Scout Troops, schools, churches and other community groups sing between the nightly snowfalls to transform Village Walk at EastLake into a holiday gathering place. For more information about the snowfall and other holiday activities, call (858) 695-2700 or visit shopvillagewalk.com.
NOVEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 9
On your doorstep
CHULA VISTA WELCOMES
new YMCA TO EASTLAKE
Dreams begin at the YMCA
SDG&E RATES WENT UP IN SEPT. Protect Yourself from Utility Rate Hikes
on Saturday, November 2, South County residents cut the ribbon on the newest YMCA facility to be added to the South Bay Family YMCA branch – the Eastlake YMCA. Located in the heart of eastern Chula Vista (2311 Boswell Road, Suite 7), the Eastlake YMCA will offer the community 36,000 square feet of programming, including group exercise classes, a cross training center and childwatch services. With more than 17,000 square feet of the new facility being dedicated for gymnastics programming, the Eastlake YMCA is home to the Kari Lyn Sutherland Gymnastics Center. The Eastlake YMCA is a $1.57 million dollar project, funded solely by the YMCA.
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More than 50 group exercise classes will be offered each week at the Eastlake YMCA including: Zumba, Zumba Gold, group TRX, indoor cycling, Body Pump(R), cardio kickboxing, interval training, youth fitness, yoga and Pilates. Cardio and strength training equipment at the Eastlake YMCA include: treadmills, ellipticals, adaptive motion trainers (AMTs), upright and recumbent bikes, upperbody ergometer, a rowing machine, a cable machine, free weights, core functional equipment and a freedom climber. “The Y’s convenient, intimate and has something for my entire family. Every time I leave, I know I got a great workout in, and my kids were safe. I’m excited for the Eastlake YMCA opening because it’s closer to home,” stated Paula Owens, EastLake resident and YMCA member.
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The Y is the starting point for many youth to learn about becoming and staying active, and developing healthy habits they will carry with them throughout their lives. When kids participate in gymnastics, they can build confidence, discover their personal best, have fun and be a part of a team. More than 100 gymnastics classes will be offered each week at the Eastlake YMCA. Gymnastics apparatus and equipment at the Kari Lyn Sutherland Gymnastics Center will include: 2 full-sized (USA Gymnastics) competition floors, loose foam pit, two vaults, tumble trak, balance beams, uneven bars, strap bar, rod floor, preschool gymnastics area, and a horizontal climbing wall. For more information on the new YMCA, including hours of operation and class schedules, go online to southbay.ymca.org/eastlake-ymca.html
On your doorstep
CYE 2013 Miss South Bay & Miss Eastlake
AMBASSADORS GIVE BACK By Dania Mumtaz, Miss Teen Eastlake 2013
O
n July 27, the CYE Miss South Bay and Miss Eastlake Ambassadors prepared to give back to their community at the Chula Vista Relay for Life, 24-hour event, at Chula Vista High School. After months of hard dedication and preparation, the CYE ambassadors were ready to show their support towards the American Cancer Society and provide their service to benefit those whose lives were affected by cancer. CYE stands for the Council for Youth Empowerment and is an organization that provides bright young ladies with the opportunity to serve their community as a titleholder. Commitment, service, and sisterhood are some of the many aspects that define the CYE organization and expresses what each titleholder represents. These ladies don’t just shine under a crown and sash, but they commit themselves to dedicating their time to make a difference within their community and becoming exceptional role models. The Chula Vista Relay for Life is an event in which those who attend come with a team and walk for 24 hours in order to show their support against cancer. At least one member from every team needs to be on the track for the complete 24 hours. Each team set up their own booth where they sold or distributed a variety of items. The morning began with an opening ceremony. Then all teams reported to the stage as survivors, supporters and families gave inspiring speeches to motivate everyone throughout the day. Instantly, feelings of love and friendship filled the atmosphere.
The Relay for Life not only serves as a way to support those who dealt with cancer, but it also brings people together. The first lap was to be walked by everyone and the 24-hour lap requirement began. As everyone visited each other’s booths and walked their laps, new friendships developed and memories were created. Some people were reunited with old friends, even teachers! I was reunited with my pre-school teacher. We were ecstatic to see each other again after so many years! The Relay for Life not only serves as a way to support those who dealt with cancer, but it also brings people together. Prior to the event, the ambassadors held a number of fundraisers to help them prepare for necessities of the event. Some of the fundraisers they planned included an AT&T Bake Sale and a Chickfil-a fundraiser. In addition to the bake sale, AT&T was an extremely helpful sponsor for the ambassadors. Their bake sale was the most successful fundraiser they hosted. The ladies are proud of the outcome of the fundraiser; they raised around $700, which allowed them to obtain materials they needed for the event. The ambassadors’ personal overall goal was $300, but with extremely continuous efforts, they achieved $889! While serving their community, other CYE sister ambassadors came to join the South Bay and Eastlake ambassadors and supported them with their presence for the whole event. Friends and family members also came out to the event to support the ambassadors and helped by walking while they napped and took a short break from their working shifts. The CYE Miss South Bay and
Miss Eastlake Ambassadors dedicated all of their efforts to give back to their community and represent how much of a positive influence they all can truly be. They represented the CYE organization within their team: Crowns 4 a Cure, which was without a doubt one of the most outstanding teams at the event! Throughout the 24-hour event, the South Bay and Eastlake ambassadors built a strong connection between each other while working together and showing support for one another. They overcame such an enormous challenge that they are proud to say changed the way they felt about themselves. Feelings of accomplishment and success filled each of the ambassadors and they are thankful to have made so many memories together, as well as realizing how much of a positive impact they have made within the community. Congratulations to the CYE Miss South Bay and Miss Eastlake Ambassadors, Miss South Bay: Michelle Andreoli, Teen Miss South Bay: Taylor Keene, Jr. Teen Miss South Bay: Natalie Wesley, Pre-teen Miss South Bay: Alexandra Aziz, Miss Eastlake: Raquel Lopez, Teen Miss Eastlake: Dania Mumtaz, Miss South County: Eboney Hinds, Jr. Teen Miss South County: Mariah Fulinara, and Junior Miss San Diego: Gloria Hinds, for your hard work and successful accomplishments!
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NOVEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 11
ON TOPIC
Solar Energy
By Leigha Silberman, Sullivan Solar Power
Alternative Energy Solutions Solar is the fastest growing industry in California and with the highest electricity rates in the continental United States, it is no surprise that San Diego leads the nation for installed solar capacity. In September, San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) increased electricity rates significantly. To help ease the price burden, San Diego’s leading renewable energy firm, Sullivan Solar Power, is promoting the adoption of solar technology. On November 16, the local firm is hosting a Solar 101 luncheon at the Bonita-Sunnyside Library. “The recent utility rate hike has served as a catalyst for adoption of solar technology, Sullivan Solar Power has seen the largest spike in South Bay’s demand for solar energy in our company’s history,” said Daniel Sullivan, founder and president of Sullivan Solar Power.
12 OUR HOMETOWN · NOVEMBER 2013
A homeowner who previously had a Utility bills will not be going down monthly bill of $220 prior to the rate in the future. According to the increase is now paying $280 for the same Department of Energy (DOE), national amount of energy. According to Sullivan electricity rates have increased by Solar Power, that same ratepayer could more than six percent annually. have a new monthly solar payment of In 2014, another rate hike will be $132 on average without implemented. spending any money out “I felt I was doing of pocket. In addition to something good for To learn more about immediate cash flow solar technology, rebates the earth, reducing savings, the solar power and incentives, and the my carbon footprint, recent SDG&E rate hike, system would allow the while saving money attend the free solar homeowner to receive a tax credit with the seminar on Saturday, for my own future” Federal government to November 16 at 11:00 the tune of $6,750. Chula Vista resident, a.m. in the Bonita-Sunnyside Library. Rusty Chang decided to declare energy The educational presentation will independence from the utility in 2010. last approximately one hour and “I felt I was doing something good for lunch will be provided. To reserve the earth, reducing my carbon footprint, your space at the presentation, call while saving money for my own future,” 1-800-Sullivan. For more information, said Chang. visit sullivansolarpower.com.
Seniors By Todd A. Shetter, Chief Operating Officer of ActivCare Living, Inc.
Creating the Right
ON TOPIC
Environment for Seniors
with Dementia
The word “home” stirs familiar and warm feelings. When dementia strikes, home is no longer that safe, comfortable and familiar place. If every morning brings a perceived unfamiliar location it can be very frightening and confusing. Fortunately there are successful and easy-to-implement ways to create comfort and security at home.
1 always better. 2 Provide visual cues rule #
that are large, colorful and familiar. With dementia, it is easy to get disoriented. ActivCare communities use large, colorful murals that relate to the framed artwork down each corridor to help guide residents. These visual cues are very effective and can be duplicated at home. Post large signs in colorful writing above bathrooms, sleeping rooms and closets.
3
Create a safe & secure environment
4
Be consistent and predictable.
rule #
One central gathering area for meals, activities and exercise is much better than three separate rooms in various locations for each event. For someone with dementia, a small achievement such as getting somewhere on their own can lead to fulfillment.
rule #
rule #
Simple is
with freedom of movement. We all need room to roam. Those affected by dementia are no different. Being in one room or one location for long periods of time makes us restless. Create a safe zone both indoors and outdoors for roaming by making sure that gates are locked, but allow the doors to the yard to remain open or unlocked. Clear unnecessary clutter from regularly traveled walking paths to bathrooms, through hallways and leading to patios. Stopping the resident who needs to meander and walk will only cause confrontation and conflict. Prepare a protected environment for them to walk and meander safely.
Routine and consistency with meals, baths, and bedtime breed familiarity. ActivCare programming is planned and carried out every day in 30 to 60 minute increments. From getting up in the morning to getting ready for bed at night, the day is planned and programmed. Exercise is led in the same location, meals at the same tables and sing-alongs always happen at the half circle of chairs in the same location in the Great Room.
Simple cues and routines can make a world of difference in creating resident comfort and decreasing anxiety. We want those afflicted with dementia to always feel safe, comfortable and in control of their involvement. If we create an environment that is simple, warm and appealing then there is less to interpret or figure out. Smiling faces, familiar greeting and warm touch can then be a bridge to moving into the next routine or task. ActivCare at Rolling Hills Ranch is a new specialized residential memory care community for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia; activcareliving.com.
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FEATURE
LEST WE
FORGET
NOVEMBER 2013 路 OUR HOMETOWN 14
On November 11, Americans all over the country, and many throughout the world, will pause to commemorate Veterans Day. This United States holiday celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans. For two local men and their families, the day will see them taking time to reflect on their years of dedicated formal service to this country and the profound impact that experience has had on their lives. “Skip“ Crane and Rick Richardson have much to be proud of and Our Hometown is honored to be able to share a little about these outstanding veterans who continue to provide service to our community.
FEATURE Lest
M
elvin “Skip“ Crane
began his military career in the early 1960s when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a radioman aboard destroyers in the Atlantic. Crane’s interest in military service stemmed from his father’s experience with the Navy. He said he knew early on that the military would be the career he would pursue based on the sense of duty and service that his father had instilled in him. Crane entered the service at age 17 and enjoyed a 25-year career, which included numerous missions as a Navy SEAL earning him three bronze stars for combat and a purple heart. Crane’s SEAL experience is one that has stayed with him forever. “Completion of Basic Underwater Demolition SEAL training in 1968 is a highlight of my life,” Crane shared. “It allows a person to achieve a level that heretofore they had never had the opportunity to experience. It’s a very intense training that about 80 percent of people quit due to the mental and psychological aspects of it. You have to transcend the mental challenge and it’s your commitment, tenacity and determination that allow one to complete it. This transfers to the rest of your life.” For the next fours years after competing the Navy SEAL training, Crane was deployed three times to South East Asia including combat tours as SEAL platoon commander, NOVEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 16
we forget
senior advisor to South Vietnamese SEALs and Assistant Naval Attaché in carnage torn Cambodia. He said that what makes the SEAL teams so successful is their ability to operate in small units to accomplish what a larger unit can’t. “You know your team so well and every individual on that team as a result of your training and working together,” Crane said. “There is a lot of brotherhood in that organization. It’s a cohesive, coordinated and wellfunctioning unit capable of enduring the long-suffering aspects of a mission.”
On Veterans Day, Crane will reflect on his service, the men he served alongside and about the importance of patriotism for this country. “Probably the first thing I’ll think about is the men that didn’t make it,” Crane said. “They sacrificed so we can enjoy our freedom. Veterans Day is a national recognition of the patriots we have in the nation. Something as simple as buying a cup of coffee for a service member in line shows recognition and remembrance of people who have served and are serving.”
Melvin (Skip) Crane at the Vietnam Unit Memorial Monument. Courtesy of Schafer Photography
H
aving
spent
nine years in Europe with the U.S. Army, Chula Vista resident Rick Richardson is happy to be back home having retired from military service in 2011. Rick and his family spent many holidays away from home during his 24-year career that included two tours in Iraq and posts in Germany and the Netherlands, among others. Starting as a cadet in the Civil Air Patrol, to ROTC at San Diego State University, then the National Guard and then active duty in the Army, Richardson followed several family members into the armed forces. He served primarily as a field artilleryman and strategic planner, eventually working his way to the rank of Colonel, a designation that he held when he retired. With his wife Carmen and daughters McKenzie and Cameryn, Rick will recognize Veterans Day a little differently here then he did while overseas. “When we lived in Europe, we used to set up flags on the graves in the U.S. military cemeteries every Memorial Day and Veterans Day,” Richardson said. “I remember in 2005 we were at the Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial. It was pouring rain all morning and we were setting up Dutch and U.S. flags in preparation for a visit the following day by U.S. President Bush and the Queen of The Netherlands. My daughter Cameryn was only four years old at the time. She’s now 13.” Richardson was the local base commander at U.S. Army Garrison Schinnen, the Netherlands, back then. Today, he serves as the Co-Executive Director of Child Development Associates and
continues to serve his community as part of the Chula Vista Charitable Foundation. Richardson says he was taught at a young age the importance of service and the importance of being a productive part of the community. His years in the military reinforced that notion. “The Army used to have a slogan – ‘Be All You Can Be,’” he shared. “I came from humble beginnings and through the Army I was provided training and an opportunity to succeed. I formed strong relationships with the people I met and served with and had the chance to travel and see the world. I saw other cultures and lived in other countries. It goes to show you just how great the U.S. is. It offers the best way of life.
“I would ask that this Veterans Day people understand that those who are serving or have served are giving greatly for them. This is a great country with great ideals worth fighting for.“
Richardson’s daughter, Cameryn, pictured at the Netherlands American Cemetary and Memorial.
“Veterans Day offers a chance to reflect on the sacrifices of those that have served and those who are serving and the sacrifices their families have given for this country,” Richardson continued. “People don’t often realize the toll military service takes on the family – being uprooted every few years, moving to new towns and going to new schools. I would ask that this Veterans Day people understand that those who are serving or have served are giving greatly for them. This is a great country with great ideals worth fighting for.”
To Skip Crane, Rick Richardson, their families and to all the military veterans near and far, Our Hometown is proud to take a moment this Veterans Day to say thank you for your service, sacrifice and willingness to work on our behalf to ensure the freedoms we enjoy continue for generations to come. NOVEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 17
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SCHOOL NEWS Let’s All Be THANKFUL By Suzanne Catanzaro, Bonita Country Day School
Gratitude is learned. It’s a challenge teaching children to understand that they aren’t entitled to everything their heart desires. Teaching children to be gracious and appreciative should be at the top of our parental to-do list.
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 highquality 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.
We all tell our kids to say “thank you” at the appropriate times, but do we remember to explain why? It’s helpful to remind kids frequently that it’s polite and important to be thankful for gifts, courtesies and compliments. When you ask a child to hand you a toy, for example, you can show them your appreciation. You might overdo it a little when your child is young to make it more obvious. Have you ever noticed that when a toddler brings you something and you smile and gush, “Oh, thank you!” at him, he’ll go find something else to bring you? This is because you’ve made him feel good with your reaction. When you don’t react the same way, the game stops being fun. Real life can be similar. It doesn’t feel good to do something nice for someone and have them disrespect you or simply refuse to acknowledge your kindness. Explain this to your children. Let them know that just like they want to be appreciated, other people do as well. Even parents need to know their kindness is appreciated, otherwise doing nice things just doesn’t feel as good. We live and raise our children in a rich and wonderful country. We have so much for which to be thankful. We have plenty of food, comfortable homes and easy access to shopping. We’ll always want to give things to our children to see their faces light up with joy and excitement, but we have to make sure they understand and appreciate what we, and others, do for them.
thE district’s nEWEst school Enrique S. Camarena Elementary is the District’s newest campus, and is located at 1650 Exploration Falls Drive in the Windingwalk community of Chula Vista. Learn more about District attendance boundaries and student enrollment by contacting (619) 425-9600, x 1571
www.cvesd.org • (619) 425-9600 ext. 1570 Each child is an individual of GrEat Worth
Children who are taught gratitude are kinder, more empathetic, happier and generally pleasant to be around. Kids who are not taught gratitude struggle with feelings of entitlement. Be a role model to teach gratitude. Thank your friends and family for caring for you and all they do for you and do this often in front of your child. Help your children to notice and be thankful for all the fun things life has to offer by actively pointing out the wonders around them on a regular basis. Best of all, when your child does what you asked her to do, stop saying “Great job!” and instead say “Thank you.” By doing this you give your child a chance to feel appreciation and gratitude. NOVEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 19
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CHULA VISTA CHARITABLE FOUNDATION Announces 2013 Grantees
On Saturday, September 21, the Chula Vista Charitable Foundation members and guests celebrated the foundation’s third year of grantmaking with a ceremony to announce its 2013 grantees. The 2013 grants focused on education-based civic engagement programs. Grants were awarded to I Love A Clean San Diego for the Adopt-A-Beach/ Clean Canyons program ($15,000), to Salt Creek Elementary for its Community of Entrepreneurs Program ($3,856), and to the Chula Vista Public Library for its Paths to Civic Engagement program ($14,737). Thanks to a generous donation from the Chula Vista 100 Committee, the foundation was able to fully fund all top three grant proposals. “Establishing a commitment to philanthropy is as much a part of what makes a community great as the quality of the infrastructure that makes it work, keeps it safe and establishes it as a great place to live and work.” said Michael Meacham, Founding Member and Board Chair of the Chula Vista Charitable Foundation. To date, the Chula Vista Charitable Foundation has granted more than $80,000 to local nonprofits and built a community endowment of more than $120,000. A closer look at the 2013 grantees:
ADOPT-A-BEACH / CLEAN CANYONS
PATHS TO CIVIC ENGAGEMENT, Chula Vista Public Library
I Love A Clean San Diego
The CVCF grant will allow the Chula Vista Public Library to implement the Paths to Civic Engagement program, which will take advantage of the library’s trusted, inclusive, and family-friendly position in the community to further develop civic engagement in Chula Vista residents. The program will focus on creating, informing, and engaging citizens. Paths to Civic Engagement will include classes to prepare non-citizens for the citizenship test and expand the library’s collection of materials related to current events and civic and social issues, in multiple formats, in English and Spanish, for adults, teens, and children. Finally, the library and the Friends of the Chula Vista Library will plan and host a lively program for adults, seniors, and teens, featuring a panel of local print and TV journalists along with community leaders who will share insider information on how to understand what’s going on, how to be informed, and how to make your voice heard.
The CVCF grant will enable I Love A Clean San Diego to expand its Adopt-A-Beach / Clean Canyons program into Chula Vista. The need for volunteer cleanups in creeks and canyons far surpasses the needs of beaches due to increased illegal dumping activity and litter issues, but there is currently only one adoptable site in Chula Vista and close to 2,000 Chula Vista community volunteers are diverted to other locations for their cleanup activities. The CVCF-funded program will improve civic engagement in a communitybased service activity that takes place locally and benefits the entire community by providing an outlet for Chula Vista volunteer groups who want to engage in meaningful service within their community.
COMMUNITY OF ENTREPRENEURS Salt Creek Elementary Funding from the CVCF will enable Salt Creek Elementary to expand its Community of Entrepreneurs program. The school will expand its Entrepreneurship Fairs by offering small gift cards to individuals or teams in each grade level that show innovation, promise, and community benefit with their products. Students will be asked to reflect on their experiences in participating in the Entrepreneurship Fairs and winning individuals/teams will have the option of using their gift cards to expand their businesses or to donate them to a local charity of their choice. Additionally, fifth grade students will participate in a study trip to BizTown, a fully interactive town facility created by Junior Achievement, where the curriculum emphasis is on ethical business practices, teamwork, and making sound business decisions.
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NOVEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 21
CALENDAR
November 2013
Out & About 8-17
CYT’S “WILLY
WONKA” @ Mater Dei High School, 1615 Mater Dei Dr., Chula Vista; $15 online, $18 at the door; A scrumptious musical treat for the whole family, Willy Wonka takes five lucky winners on a memorable tour of an amazing candy factory; www.cytsandiego.org
14
22-23
Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center, 751 Medical Center Court, Chula Vista, 91911; Member fee $10, non-member $20; (619) 420-6603 or www. chulavistachamber.org
9am-4pm @ Chula Vista Elks Lodge, 901 Elks Lane, Chula Vista, CA 91910, off Telegraph Canyon Road 1/2 mile East of I-805; (619) 240-0098
CHULA VISTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MIXER 5:30-7:30pm; hosted by
23
Save the Date:
DEC 7 TIS THE SEASON FOR SINATRA” SISTER DOLORES SOCIAL OUTREACH GALA @ St. Pius X Event
7TH ANNUAL SANTA MAP AND COMPASS NAVICenter; Includes dinGATION BASICS 6:30-8:30 PARADE & TREE LIGHTING ner, cocktails, music
9
PARADE BAND REVIEW & COMMUNITY FESTIVAL 10am-3pm @ Otay Ranch Town Center; Parade and Band Review features more than 30 high school bands competing for grants and prizes; ChulaVistaParade.org
“THANKFUL THANKSGIVING” – 5-9pm Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy; Kids ages 3-12; $25 per student; $35 day of event; Kids will have fun eating pizza, dancing, making crafts, listening to stories and watching a movie, all relating to being thankful this holiday season; (619) 585-1133, neishas.com
@ Chula Vista REI, 2015 Birch Road, Ste 150; In-store class where you’ll learn the parts of a compass, how to read a topographic map and how to use them in tandem; $30 member, $50 non-member; rei.com
NO SCHOOL
for students in CVESD or Sweetwater School District
6pm-8pm @ Otay Ranch Town and silent auction; Center; Bring the whole famwww.strosecv.com ily to see the 30 foot tree be lit. Parade will follow; (619) 6561393; otayranchtowncenter.com EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday 11:30am-1pm at Oggi’s Eastlake; eastlakebusiness.org
28 16
Thanksgiving
Sunnyside Library, 4375 Bonita Rd; Informational presentation on solar technology, rebates and incentives, and case studies; Lunch provided; 1-800-SULLIVAN or SullivanSoloarPower.com
SOUTH BAY FAMILY YMCA 15TH ANNUAL PRE-PIG OUT WORKOUT 6am-11am
BONITA SOLAR LUNCHEON 11am @ Bonita-
11 Veteran’s 17 Day
2ND ANNUAL VICTORIAN COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
FIRST LEGO LEAGUE QUALIFYING TOURNAMENT 8am-5pm; Free; Co-hosted by SPAWAR and Eastlake High School FRC Titanbots @ Eastlake High School; .cafirst.org
22 OUR HOMETOWN ·NOVEMBER 2013
Get your workout before enjoying that big Thanksgiving meal; southbay.ymca.org
UNITED RUN FOR THE HUNGRY 5K/10K run/walk through Downtown San Diego; Proceeds to directly benefit the hungry in San Diego through programs offered by Jewish Family Services and the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank; unitedrunforthehungry.org
OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER FARMER’S MARKET every Tuesday 4-8pm FOOD TASTING EXTRAVAGANZA First Wednesday of the month 6pm-8pm at The Steakhouse on Broadway; Must RSVP to (619) 508-4814 KIDS READY TO READ every Thursday 11:15am at Otay Ranch Branch Library; Interactive storytime program for kids 3 and younger; chulavistalibrary.com
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
SLICE OF LIFE
By Karishma Sinnott
Chocolate-Coffee-Cookie-Concoction As the weather cools and families have more time to spend time together indoors, now is a wonderful time to try out some fun, new recipes that are sure to please. This recipe is one that was inspired by an episode of Barefoot Contessa and has since taken on many incarnations and shape changes. I’m sure that by the time you read this, I may have tweaked the recipe again. However, it’s still a favorite in my house, and I know it will be at yours, too.
Quick tip: Don’t eliminate the Nutella unless you have nut allergies in your house – it doesn’t seem like it would make a difference, but it really does!
Ingredients: 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all purpose flour 1/2 cup cocoa powder 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/4 tsp. salt 10 tbsp. butter, at room temperature 1/2 c. sugar 1/2 c. dark brown sugar 1 small egg (if your eggs are extra large, use half of a gently beaten egg) 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 tablespoon Nutella 1/2 tsp. coffee extract (Nielsen Massey, order online) 1 c. semi sweet chocolate (you can use chocolate chips, but I recommend that you cut up semisweet chocolate into chunks)
Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350F, then –
1. Sift together the first four ingredients
2. 4.
and set aside. Cream the butter and sugars. Scrape down the sides of your mixing bowl. Add egg, Nutella and vanilla and coffee extract. Add the flour mixture, do not over beat. Fold in the chocolate chunks. Portion with a small ice cream scoop on a lined cookie sheet (I use a 1 tbsp. scoop). Bake for 9 minutes. The cookies will look underdone or slightly raw. Do not over-bake these cookies. They should look very soft when you remove them from the oven.
3.
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8.
My family enjoys this with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream or coffee ice-cream sandwiched between two cookies. The perfect complement to a warm blanket or a roaring fire. A Votre Sante Karishma Sinnott is a writer, editor, mother, wife and fan of Our Hometown Magazine.
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS Photo Credit to Ana Romo
SA N DI E GO A . C .T. I .V. E Chiropractic & WELLNESS CENTER Spend any length of time with Dr. Marc Matanza and it quickly becomes apparent he has a genuine passion for his life’s work. The owner of Chula Vista’s San Diego A.C.T.I.V.E. Chiropractic and Wellness Center strives to live a healthy lifestyle in all areas of his life, including within his chosen profession. As a doctor of chiropractic care, Dr. Matanza’s hands-on, non-invasive approach often puts patients at ease and quickly on the road to good overall health. It’s that strong desire to help people that drove him to the medial arena initially. “When I was at San Diego State University, I taught a human anatomy and physiology class as a lab assistant,” Dr. Matanza said. “That experience got me involved with the human body. By the time I finished undergrad in biology, I was a successful body builder. This lined me up to pursue a career helping people through hands-on, natural, holistic therapies.” In his local practice, Dr. Matanza offers a wide range of services for patients from all walks of life. There are, of course, chiropractic adjustments and manual manipulation, but patients also often benefit from infrared therapy, heat and ice therapy, myofascial release technique, neuromuscular re-education, therapeutic exercise and massage therapy, just to name a few. “My main focus is to address the chief complaint,” the South Bay resident said. “But I go above and beyond to treat patients for other health problems as well. I want to treat the whole person and work with my patients to establish a treatment plan that gets them back to good health.” San Diego A.C.T.I.V.E Chiropractic and Wellness Center, (619) 934-1777; www.sdactivechiropractic.com
24 OUR HOMETOWN · NOVEMBER 2013
Dr. UYEN THOMPSON Seeing that a local dental office reminds patients of home sounds like a tall order, but for Dr. Uyen Thompson and her team, making sure visitors to her dental office on Telegraph Canyon Road feel right at home has been the goal for years. And one they have succeeded at. “Everyone is like family here,” Dr. Thompson said in describing what makes her Chula Vista family cosmetic dental office distinct. “Our patients feel like they are home. Everyone knows each other and that goes for patients, as well.” The efforts to provide a homey setting for professional dental care starts when someone pulls up to the office. Seasonal decorations, especially for Halloween and the holidays, make for a welcoming environment both in and outside the building. Once inside, patients are greeted warmly and on a personal level. There are headphones and televisions to occupy patients during exams and procedures, and perhaps a fresh vegetable or two to take home from the onsite garden. This philosophy of creating such a pleasant, yet professional, atmosphere is what brings patients back year after year. “We have generations of family members coming to us for care,” Dr. Thompson said proudly. “We want our patients to feel like they are part of the family.” Dr. Thompson and her husband So, whom she met at UCSD, take that family focus into their community outreach as well. The couple works hard together to give back – a candy buyback program taking place this month – as Chula Vista is home both personally and professionally. Uyen N. Thompson, D.D.S., 688 Old Telegraph Canyon Road, (619) 216-2121
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NOVEMBER 2013 路 OUR HOMETOWN 25
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT
JON BIGORNIA EastLake resident Jon Bigornia doesn’t seek out the spotlight despite often being surrounded by a swell of photographers. In fact, the longtime South Bay community member prefers to capture others showcasing their talents, typically out on the athletic fields. But this one time, Bigornia could not help himself. He had to find a way to photograph this incredibly special moment with his son and be on the other end of the camera for a change. “One of my fondest memories is seeing my son Joseph get into the game when Eastlake High played for the CIF championship in 2009,” Bigornia shared. “I have a photo that one of the coaches took of me and my son Joseph. It’s one of the best memories I have.”
kids really liked seeing their photos on the site. I’ve been doing this so long now that I look forward to Friday nights and being down on the field. I’ve enjoyed the camaraderie that exists down on the sidelines and I’m happy to share my advice with the younger photographers that are taking photos for the school.” Bigornia and his wife Paula settled in EastLake after they both grew up in the South Bay. While Jon went to Southwest High, Paula attended Montgomery High School. The two went to UCSD for college not knowing each other and finally met at the Postal Service where they worked. The Bigornias
“I LOOK FORWARD TO FRIDAY NIGHTS & BEING DOWN ON THE FIELD.” For years Bigornia has taken similar photos and shared them with local families. He started, as so many parents do, when his sons began playing youth sports. Bigornia coached his sons’ baseball teams and actively supported their football squads, but as the boys grew up he found that he enjoyed patrolling the sidelines with a camera in his hand and taking photos of his sons and their teammates out on the field of play. After games, Bigornia would post his photos on team websites and the kids and parents looked forward to seeing themselves and their loved ones on the site. He has found this a wonderful outlet for giving back to his community. “The photography all started with Eastlake Little League,” Bigornia recalled. “I was constantly trying to maintain the website and upload photos and updates on the teams. I found that 26 OUR HOMETOWN · NOVEMBER 2013
moved into the area in 2000 and have successfully raised three children together – Tommy, Joseph and Matthew. Living in EastLake has given the Bigornias a chance to stay physically close to their immediate and extended families. Both Jon and Paula come from families with a strong military connection. Jon’s parents are immigrants from the Philippines with his dad having served in the U.S. Navy, finally settling in San Diego. Paula’s father served in the Air Force. Both men served this country proudly and passed a strong legacy of commitment and service down to their children. Jon, Paula and their families will take time to honor their family’s military history this Veteran’s Day.
“It’s been neat to be an active part of this community,” Bigornia said.
On your doorstep
NOVEMBER 2013 路 OUR HOMETOWN 27
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