Our Hometown Chula Vista - December 2013

SEASON OF

Inspiration

december 2013

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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT ARCA PRODUCE PIZZO’S PIZZERIA RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT LEX GILLETTE

CONTENTS

D E C E M B E R 2 0 13

From the Editor...

Mike Minjares EDITOR, OUR HOMETOWN

14 BE INSPIRED

04 BRAVO Announcements

05 NEWS On your doorstep

11 ON TOPIC Recycle Reuse

14 COVER STORY Seasons Of Inspiration

17 FEATURE Rotary Wine Taste Tablescapes

20 SCHOOL NEWS RISE Program Success Photo Credit to Quinn LaCasse

Ah, we have finally reached the end of the year. For many, this time of year marks a special time filled with beloved traditions.

Family gatherings and merriment fill the calendar for those celebrating the spirit of the season. The holidays have always been a magical time in my family. Cookie decorating, bread making, gingerbread house construction and family get togethers have long added to our seasonal joy in the Minjares household.

In this issue of Our Hometown, we focus on the inspiration that can be found all around us. There are countless ways we can find inspiration and our hope is you’ll discover a couple more within these pages. We offer several stories featuring ordinary local residents who have gone out and done extraordinary things to make a difference.

Courtney Sewell and Megan Thomas have a sister’s bond that can withstand even the greatest of trials. It is our privilege to honor that in our cover story. Noah Schenk shows us how one can live out their most treasured values and make things better for others in great need.

Our Resident Spotlight – Lex Gillette – continues our inspiring features with his story of overcoming huge obstacles in achieving one’s dreams.

Finally, the end of the year also marks the end of an era of sorts here at Our Hometown. I’d like to let our readers know that I will be leaving my role as Editor of this publication. The January 2014 issue will be my final issue as I step away from this incredible opportunity after nearly six years.

A final goodbye will come next month, but I want to say thank you for all your support and encouragement from the very beginning of our efforts to bring you a community magazine spotlighting the best of the city I grew up in and still call my hometown. It has been an absolute pleasure to be a part of bringing to you this remarkable publication each month.

I hope you will continue to use this magazine as a local resource and that you assist the new editor and everyone here at Our Hometown as you have me.

Until then, happy holidays and here’s to finding new sources of inspiration.

22 CALENDAR

Out & About

24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS ARCA Produce Pizzo’s Pizzeria

26 RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Lex Gillette

BRAVO

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

Oct. 22. Reed’s contributions have helped lead the team to a top ranking in San Diego and have made the local team serious contenders for another CIF championship.

To SONIA MAYU TANIGUCHI of Chula Vista for her outstanding performance at the World Youth Archery Championships held October 13-20 in Wuxi, China. The junior at Bonita Vista High School finished first in the Women’s Cadet Team Compound and second in both Individual Women’s Cadet Compound Bow and Overall Team (USA) competitions. This year’s medal haul match Taniguchi’s impressive three-medal accomplishment at the last World Youth Championship held in Poland two years ago.

To ACTIVCARE at Rolling Hills Ranch on its ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration that took place on October 3. The new senior community features 60 accommodations and specializes in residential memory care. Joining the festivities, in photo from left to right, Chula Vista Mayor Cheryl Cox, Chula Vista City Councilmember Maria Salas, ActivCare Chairman and CEO W. Major Chance, ActivCare President Renee Barnard and ActivCare COO Todd Shetter.

To JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS in Otay Ranch Town Center for contributing $2,599 to the EastLake Educational Foundation.

To the CITY OF CHULA VISTA on receiving three Beacon Awards from the Institute for Local Government and the Jersey Mike’s ran a Statewide Energy Efficiency promotion the first Collaborative. The three four days they were Spotlight Awards recognize open and had an the city’s efforts to save energy, amazing response. reduce greenhouse gas The money raised emissions and adopt policies will be used to fund and programs that promote technology at local sustainability. The awards EastLake Schools. were presented September “The EEF is thrilled 20 during the 2013 League Photo Courtesy of Jon Bigornia to have Jersey Mike’s of California Cities Annual in our area,” said EEF Conference in Sacramento.

Executive Director, Chula Vista received the following awards: Nicole Graichen. “It is easy to see that they have a passion for giving back to our community and we are extremely grateful that they chose to partner with the EEF for this promotion.”

To TRAYLON REED, Eastlake High School sophomore football running back, on being named a U-T San Diego High School Athlete of the Week, on

· Gold Spotlight Award for Agency Electricity Savings and Platinum Spotlight Award for Agency Natural Gas Savings · Gold Spotlight Award for Greenhouse Gas Reductions in Agency Facilities · Platinum Spotlight Award for Sustainability Best Practice Activities.

The city was recognized for reducing electricity use in agency facilities by 15 percent and natural gas usage by 30 percent between 2005 and 2011.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO BRAVO, send a quick note to Our Hometown’s editor 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 · DECEMBER 2013

On your doorstep

Donations NEEDED FOR CHILDREN Especially needed are new, unwrapped toys for children ages 9-13, and gift cards for young teens ages 14-17 The holidays present wonderful opportunities to help those in need throughout Chula Vista.

Now through December 14, the Chula Vista Police Activities League (PAL) is collecting donations for disadvantaged families during the holidays. Donations of cash, toys, gift cards and wrapping paper can be dropped off in the lobby of the Chula Vista Police Department, 315 Fourth Avenue, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Especially needed are new, unwrapped toys for children ages 9 through 13, and gift cards for young teens ages 14-17. Some gift card suggestions include movie theaters, restaurants, Target, Walmart, etc. No bicycles or electronics

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are needed. The selected families are suggested by the Chula Vista Elementary School District and the Chula Vista Welfare Council. Last year, CVPAL assisted almost 385 families and distributed gifts to over 1,200 children.

CVPAL is a non-profit corporation that assists at risk youth with the improvement of their intellectual, physical and social skills. They offer yearly scholarships and Sixth Grade Outstanding Achievement awards in addition to the holiday giveaway. Checks can be made payable to CVPAL, and sent c/o Nicolle DePriest, CVPD, 315 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. For more information, please call (619) 691-5133 or (619) 691-5146.

PUBLISHER Michael Monaco sales@ourhometownmag.com

EDITORIAL Mike Minjares editor@ourhometownmag.com

Eastlake Little League REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE Big dreams start now. The local community is still buzzing over the magical run to the Little League World Series and U.S. Championship that the boys from Eastlake Little League made this summer. The road back to South Williamsport, PA begins with registration for the Spring 2014 season of Eastlake Little League. Registration is accepted online and runs through December 16, with late fees assessed after that date. The registration materials can be found at www.eastlakell.com.

Eastlake Little League welcomes boys and girls that are league age 4 to 14 years old, born between 5/01/99 and 4/30/10. A variety of divisions are available including the Challenger Division open to differently-abled youth.

Participants in this division have the opportunity to experience the joys of pulling together as a team, being cheered and earning rewards for their achievements.

League fees have remained steady at $205 for one player, with discounted fees for players in the youngest and Challenger divisions. All players, league age 7 or older, must attend one assessment. Assessments are held in January with the specific schedule listed on the website.

For any additional questions, visit eastlakell.com.

DESIGNER Elsa Flores design@ourhometownmag.com

DESIGNER Melissa Monroy design@ourhometownmag.com

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

DECEMBER 2013 路 OUR HOMETOWN 5

On your doorstep...

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Key to Christmas in October Every year for the past 15 years small miracles have occurred for a number of Chula Vista residents through a program called “Christmas in October.” This volunteer program repairs homes for low-income elderly, disabled or veteran homeowners who are not able physically or financially to take care of the repairs needed to keep them safe, warm and comfortable.

The program has been funded by contributions from UTC Aerospace Systems, Lowe’s, Dixieline, North Island Credit Union, the Chula Vista Rotary Club, the Chula Vista Rotary Club, Bonita Kiwanis, Chula Vista Firefighter’s Foundation, Seacoast Commerce Bank, Retired Public Employees Association, the American Legion and individuals with additional support from Republic Services and Eurest Dining Services.

All repairs are done for free, with the work being completed by skilled or unskilled volunteers, usually more than 200, on the second Saturday of October each year. This year the community program took place on October 11. Every dollar spent is leveraged with more than $4.00 in donated goods and services. It is a “neighbor-helping-neighbor” event designed to build a better community and to take care of some of our more fragile Chula Vista residents.

Each year, seven to ten homes are selected from a large number of applications. A “House Captain” is assigned to each home and the scope of work to be done is developed from the needs listed by the homeowners. Twenty to 75 volunteers work on each home doing a great deal of yard work like trimming or cutting down trees, bushes and plants, as well as plumbing repairs, demolition of sheds, interior and exterior painting, fence building, repairing patios, planting, installing irrigation systems, repairing and painting facia boards, new windows, roof repairs and whatever else is needed to make the home and yard more useable and comfortable for years to come.

Homeowners are always astounded by receiving all of this free from people they don’t know who care about them, their welfare and their community.

More information about this terrific community-based service can be obtained by calling (619) 691-5213. Perhaps next year we’ll see you participating in “Christmas in October” as a volunteer with a hammer or paintbrush in hand.

6 OUR HOMETOWN · DECEMBER 2013

Pajama Party With Santa AT OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER

This holiday start a new tradition and visit Santa in your pajamas. The Pajama Party with Santa takes place Tuesdays, December 3, 10 and 17 at the Santa Photo Area at Otay Ranch Town Center. Starting at 6:00 p.m., bring your child’s favorite stuffed animal, blanket or book and capture a magical and memorable moment, sure to be remembered for years to come. Bring a new unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots and create a memorable moment for a deserving child in our community, too. And with a $3 donation for Toys for Tots, you can receive a customized email letter from Santa on Christmas Eve. In addition, participants can enter their photo for a chance to win a Most Memorable Santa Photo Contest and a $500 Shop Etc. Mall Gift Card. More information is available at otayranchtowncenter.com

Shush, don’t tell the kids, but Santa always finds time every year to stop and visit!

On your doorstep

Ho, Ho Holiday Party AT NEISHA’S KIDS NIGHT OUT

A “Ho, Ho Holiday Party” is coming to Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy’s Kids Night Out on Saturday, December 14 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Shush, don’t tell the kids, but Santa always finds time every year to stop and visit! There will be pizza dinner, dance class, and the little ones will hear the story of T’was the Night Before Christmas. In addition, they will create a holiday craft and receive a specially wrapped gift from Santa himself!

Santa will also pose for pictures with each child for them to take home. So, bring in the kiddos for lots of fun and good cheer here while you get some of those last minute errands taken care of, attend your own holiday party or just take some time to sit back with your feet up. Reservations open December 2 at 9:00 a.m., and the event costs $25 per child if you pre-register, $35 per child if there is any space left the day of the event. For more information or to register, call (619) 585-1133 or go online to www.neishas.com

DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 7

On your doorstep

Village Walk Snowfall a HOLIDAY TRADITION Each year Village Walk at EastLake – located at the intersection of EastLake Parkway and Miller Drive in Chula Vista – transforms the courtyard near the Koi Pond at the outdoor shopping village into a giant snow globe setting where children and adults can frolic in the snow from December 1 to 24. The magical snow, with choreographed music and dazzling lights, falls each night at 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

The award-winning Eastlake High School Show Choir will perform on December 1 at 5:30 p.m. just before the first snowfall of the season. Starting with the holiday launch festivities and every night during the snowfall, children will receive free “magic” glasses to watch the snow fall in rainbow colors.

Village Walk at EastLake is the only San Diego County location hosting the nightly snowfall show. The show was created by Los Angeles-based MagicSnow Systems president Adam Williams, a former magician, who invented the snow formula. The eco-friendly snowflakes are mostly water and vanish without residue on contact with the ground.

Uyen N. Thompson, D.D.S. (619) 216-2121 688 Old Telegraph Canyon Road Chula Vista, Ca 91910

The Premier DesTinaTion for DenTisTry in san Diego 8 OUR HOMETOWN · DECEMBER 2013

Each night between the 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. snowfalls, community caroling groups will sing holiday favorites. Each year the center makes donations to schools, scout troops, churches and other organizations that participate in the holiday caroling.

Sunnytrails Girl Scout Troop 5216 from Chula Vista will lead off the 2013 caroling schedule on December 1. Troop leader Diana Fieck shared that the Scouts will use the donation money from Village Walk at EastLake to buy socks to keep homeless people warm this winter.

A highlight of the continuing holiday activities at Village Walk at EastLake is the Family Festival on Saturday, December 14 from noon to 3:00 p.m. This free event includes train rides, holiday craft activity for children ages 12 and younger, and hourly afternoon snowfalls at 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Bring your cameras for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will give each child a coloring book. Visit ShopVillageWalk.com or call (858) 695-2700 for more info.

On your doorstep

BALBOA PARK’S

December Nights

Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season WITH SOUTH BAY EXPRESSWAY

CELEBRATES THE SEASON’S SIGHTS & SOUNDS The celebration of the holidays kicks into high gear with the return of San Diego’s largest free community festival – Balboa Park’s December Nights.

Set for Friday, December 6, 3:00 to 11:00 p.m., and Saturday, December 7, noon to 11 p.m., the annual holiday celebration features entertaining musical and dance performances, a wide variety of delicious cultural food options and plenty of holiday cheer for all.

In addition, participating Balboa Park museums open their doors free of charge from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. both evenings. More than 350,000 visitors are expected to experience the joy of Balboa Park’s December Nights.

Visit balboapark.org/decembernights for all the exciting details.

Nostalgic holiday stories bring to mind peaceful nights with family and friends, quietly enjoying hot cocoa, singing carols around a fire, making a snowman or – more appropriately in our region – a sand angel. But these images become as unrealistic as sugar plum fairies dancing in your head when you’re stuck in traffic, trying to finish your holiday shopping. Stress can creep up on you like the Grinch, and the holidays can be overwhelming.

Here are a few tips to keep your season merry and bright:

d



Make a list and check it twice.

Stay organized and get a sense of accomplishment as you complete tasks and errands.

Have realistic plans. And be ready for them to change at the drop of Santa’s hat. Be reasonable about the number of events you can attend and how much time you need to shop, bake, decorate, and wrap gifts.

San Diego drivers can avoid the stress of holiday traffic by using South Bay Expressway. With 10 miles of congestion-free travel, South Bay Expressway offers convenient access through eastern Chula Vista to connect to Downtown, East County, I-8, and Otay Mesa, to name a few. Shopping centers off the toll road outnumber Rudolph and his reindeer pals, so you can finish your shopping faster than a sleigh ride to the North Pole. Your trip will be even quicker with FasTrak, which automatically deducts the correct toll from a prepaid account.

Plus, FasTrak customers save up to 80 percent on South Bay Expressway tolls.

Grab some mistletoe and get ready to kiss traffic goodbye with South Bay Expressway! You could find more than extra time and money in your stocking if you sign up for FasTrak (or add a transponder to your existing account)



Set a holiday budget and follow it. Overspending is a major cause of holiday stress.



Put the brakes on over-indulgence. You’ll feel better about your New Year’s resolution if you enjoy those decadent meals and desserts in moderation.

Give yourself a gift. Take time

 to relax and decompress. You deserve it!

by December 20. Give your commute a makeover and you just might win a $500 spa package!

Visit SBXthe125.com to sign up and “like” SBXthe125 on Facebook for more chances to win.

‘Tis better to give than to receive, so Our Hometown has joined South Bay Expressway in spreading the joy by giving you a chance to win a certificate good for a spa and wellness treatment from eLiveLife.com.

We’ve hidden twelve kisses throughout this issue. When you’ve found them all, let us know at Facebook. com/OurHometownChulaVista for your chance to win. Whether you choose a cooking class or golf lesson, chiropractic exam, massage, or facial, we hope your holiday is stress-free!

DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 9

On your doorstep

Del Rey Canyon Clean Up Event I Love A Clean San Diego recently announced the expansion of its AdoptA-Beach program into two canyons in Chula Vista. The local conservation organization will be hosting a kick-off cleanup event at Del Rey canyon on December 14,

from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Join in the opportunity to work with the City of Chula Vista and the California Coastal Commission to protect our canyons – and ultimately our beaches – from the harmful effects of litter and pollution.

The event begins at Del Rey Canyon del Sol Circle Park, 999 Camino del Sol, Chula Vista. Interested parties should contact Lexi Ambrogi at lambrogi@cleansd.org to sign up.

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.

Living Nativity at Concordia Church Bringing a familiar story to life marks Concordia Church and School’s Living Nativity presentation. This year’s event is set for Sunday, December 8 at 10:00 a.m. on the school’s grounds at 1695 Discovery Falls Drive. The free public performance is a unique telling of the timeless story of the birth of Jesus told by more than 160 singers and actors ages two to five. The outdoor stage with the mountain view serves as the perfect backdrop for the telling of the Christmas story. The performance is complete with live animals. A free petting zoo and free pony rides follow the performance.

More information can be found online at www.concordiachurch.com

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 10 OUR HOMETOWN · DECEMBER 2013

WIN A 90 DAY MEMBERSHIP TO b2be Nominate a friend or yourself by liking us on Facebook. More details at: ourhometownmag.com

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY WITH 3 R’s

ON TOPIC

DID YOU KNOW that it is so much easier to reduce the financial and environmental impacts of the Holiday Season up front than it is to deal with the after affects – bulging waist lines and waste cans, high energy bills and empty wallets?

Listed below are just a few simple ideas to help you this holiday season:

 REDUCE

•The more guests you have the less heat

you need, turn down your thermostat.

•Shop for electronics with the ENERGY STAR designation and buy rechargeable batteries and a charger for all those new toys.

•Switch to LED lights for your holiday lights as they use 90% less electricity and use timers to turn them on and off.

•Shop with reusable bags.

•Create a shopping list before going to the store to reduce impulse buys.

•Use smaller plates to encourage smaller portions which can reduce the amount of food left on the plate.

 REUSE •When

you get the new stuff, donate your gently used items to local charities.

•Donate untouched, leftover dishes, or large amounts of food to local charities.

•Use last year’s holiday cards to make gift tags for this year.

 RECYCLE •Place

your discarded paper wrappings in the recycling container (no foil paper).

•Recycle the packaging that your gift came in – cardboard, paper, etc.

•After the holiday, cut your fresh-cut tree in half and place it in your yard waste containers. Remove all ornaments and lights first please, they don’t compost very well.

There will always be discards, but whether or not they become waste is a matter of choice. What choices will you make this year? For more information visit: www.chulavistaca.gov/clean.

DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 11

12 OUR HOMETOWN 路 DECEMBER 2013

DECEMBER 2013 路 OUR HOMETOWN 13

FEATURE

From time to time we all need a bit of

inspiration holidays brightly

to spur us to

action. Around the

that enlightening spark seems to flash ever more

for those

open to seeing it.

This month, Our Hometown is happy to share two stories of inspiration featuring ordinary, local residents doing extraordinary things to help others in need.

Both Noah Schenk and Courtney Sewell illustrate what we can accomplish when we feel inspired – no matter the source – to get involved and make a difference.

DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 14

COVER/FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY BY QUINN LACASSE

SERVING A SISTER

– A Labor of Love

Courtney Sewell recalls being only five years old when her younger sister Megan Thomas was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis (NF). That’s a very young age to try and understand why your two-year-old baby sister has to spend lots of time in hospitals and why the house seems filled with medical devices. With Megan now 30, Sewell knows very well what NF – a genetic disorder that causes the growth of tumors on nerve tissues – does to a body and the challenges it presents not only for the person afflicted but to her family, as well. And yet, to watch this Chula Vista family in action – loving and caring for Megan through it all – is to witness the inspiring strength of the human spirit.

Since the beginning, Sewell and her family have made enhancing Megan’s quality of life their focus.

As Megan’s condition took a negative turn this summer as a tumor was found on her brain, the local family has intensified its efforts to do all they can to raise awareness of Megan’s battle and ease the financial burden that this fight entails. Sewell, the planner in the group, recently organized a successful golf tournament and put together “Team Megan” for an NF walk in November. The former Hilltop and Bonita Vista high school student and her family will do whatever they can to help Megan through this situation.

“I am so lucky to have a close and supportive family,” Sewell shared. “All four of us siblings live in Chula Vista and are real close. Getting involved to help Megan didn’t really take much thought. This is what you do for family. I am the planner-type so I started the ball rolling on the golf tournament, but we all have our different strengths and we make it work.”

Sewell and her family worked together to pull off the recent golf tournament and the 15-person NF Walk team. The mother of two young kids knows that both activities’ success owed much to the incredible help she and her family received from friends, neighbors, professional contacts and supportive local businesses.

“It was amazing how many people came out to spread the word,” Sewell said about the family’s benefit golf tournament. “So many people contributed items for our silent auction to make it very successful.

I know it meant a lot to Megan because when she was in the hospital for a time in September,

Season ofInspiration

By Mike Minjares

the first thing she asked about when she got out was about the golf tournament. She did not want to miss it.”

Throughout her sister’s ordeal, which has become increasingly more serious, Sewell has continued to be inspired by Megan’s spirit and attitude. According to Sewell, Megan’s friendly and outgoing nature has been unfazed by her battle with NF. “The thing about Megan is that she is an amazing person,” Sewell explained. “She has always been positive and at peace with her situation. It’s amazing to see someone go through all this and not cry or complain about it. She is so inspiring.

“We’ve been close our whole lives and it is difficult to see someone go through all this, and yet she is still the same friendly person,” Sewell continued. “It makes you look at yourself and challenges you to be more positive. My struggles are nothing compared to what Megan is dealing with.

Megan is inspiring.”

While Sewell says the family is praying for a miracle at this point, a benefit fund for Megan Thomas has been put in place – www.gofundme.com/46wvp0 – for anyone wanting to help Megan and her family.

Editor’s note: On November 11, Megan Thomas no longer needed to fight NF. She passed away peacefully. This story is presented as a tribute to her inspiring legacy.

Season of Inspiration FEATURE

Schenk, an 18-year-old freshman at Southwestern Community College, has aspirations of becoming a fireman and serving his community in the future.

After reading the story of his summer trip to Mexico, it’s clear this local student is already doing much to build community and assist his neighbors in need.

LOCAL TEEN’S WEEKEND TRIP TO MEXICO

– It’s Not What You Think

On August 23, I traveled to the “Youth With a Mission” (YWAM) base in Baja, Malibu with 40 other volunteers from Eastlake Church. During the weekend we planned to build two houses through the “Homes of Hope” organization for two struggling families. When we arrived at the base, we were welcomed by the staff from YWAM and given a tour of the facility.

After receiving our room assignments, we gathered for dinner and then headed to orientation, where the staff explained what we would be doing the next few days and how we would build these homes.

On Saturday morning, we woke up, ate breakfast, and then headed to the site where we would be building the homes, and got to work. First we made a prayer circle around the foundation of the house and asked God to bless the house and bring DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 16

By Noah Schenk

safety to the family that would soon reside there. Next, we got to work building the frame of the house. During that time, I worked the chop-saw to make the required cuts for the framing process and then helped assemble all the walls and the roof. On Sunday, after the frame of the house was finished, we added the electrical and windows, then finished off the inside with dry wall, trim, and paint. Then, we added some essentials to the house like a propane stove/oven and furniture. While most of the team was working on the inside, I was roofing the house and putting all the final touches on the exterior.

I decided to volunteer for the Homes of Hope organization because I felt like God was calling on me to help out this family in need. During the experience,

the family that we were building the house for actually participated in the construction of the house. It was awesome to get to know the family that I was helping and at the same time practice the Spanish language.

It made the experience all the more rewarding in the end when I realized the impact I had made on this family.

When we gave them the keys to their new home, the mom of the family broke out in tears and the father was speechless. This experience made me realize how fortunate I am and how small of a sacrifice it takes to change someone’s life. I wouldn’t hesitate to jump at the opportunity to do this again and would strongly encourage anyone to participate in this amazing experience.

ROTARY W I N E TAS T E

–A Great Way to

Give Back

By Lisa Johnson, Chula Vista Rotary

How do you give back to your community? Do you tithe regularly at church?

Do you always place something in the offering plate?

Maybe you give an annual gift to the YMCA, Boys and Girls Club or South Bay Community Services. You and your family might make several donations throughout the year. I am sure you purchase Girl Scout Cookies and popcorn from the Boy Scouts. Those are all ‘giving back’ opportunities.

“That just sounds like ‘giving’ opportunities,” you say.

True. When you donate to a non-profit in your community or even a national nonprofit organization, you are “giving.” That is important to any community. So, what else can you do?

Well, you could do what nearly 1,000 people did in late August. They attended the 11th Annual Rotary Wine and Food Festival traditionally hosted at the Otay Ranch Town Center. How fun does that sound? Sounds really fun and it was. Food samples from more than 20 fine food vendors and wine, beer and spirits from a similar number of purveyors were a part of the evening.

Combine that with a silent auction packed with great items from sailboat rides and unique local experiences to a fabulous Taylor guitar; and

hoppin’ music to dance to and you have a wonderful event. There was also a raffle where the grand prize was a wine fridge filled with high quality wine and spirits.

While this is a fun community event, it is also how the Rotary Club of Chula Vista raises money to invest into the community. With funds raised, Rotary gives thousands of dollars to graduating seniors to support their college education. They support scholarships for kids, seniors and families getting services from the YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club. They give baskets to seniors at Christmas, support international polio eradication, build houses in Tijuana and support local foster parents and their families.

So, the next time you think you need to give or give back to your community, consider attending the 12th Annual Rotary Wine and Food Festival or any of a number of other fun ‘give back’ events to help those who need help.

As it is holiday time, I can’t forget to mention one of Chula Vista Rotary’s signature projects. Started more than 30 years ago by a Rotarian and chaired today by that same Rotarian’s son, the Rotary bike project has inspired many people to give to others. The Rotary Club of Chula Vista increases the number of bikes it builds and gives away each year.

Supported by County Supervisor Greg Cox and funds raised through the Rotary Wine and Food Festival, this is a favorite project bringing together many volunteers to help many children. This year, we will assemble and donate more than 300 bikes to children in the South Bay who may never have dreamed of something like a bicycle for Christmas.

Seeing the pure joy on the face of a child who unexpectedly receives a bike and helmet is what keeps this at the top of the list for great community service opportunities.

DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 17

FEATURE TABLESCAPES INFUSE NEW

Holiday Cheer into Your Home

By Nikki Klugh, Nikki Klugh Design Group, LLC

It’s that time of year again when everyone begins to feel the holiday spirit.

We all begin to drag out our old holiday decorations and family keepsakes to sprinkle the joy around our home. We also start looking for ways to add a pop to our home. A simple and cost-effective way to do this is through tablescapes.

5. Texture is Good. Aim for a mix of textures: combine shiny and matte; soft and hard; or smooth and rough. Make it interesting. Good items to have are books, decorative plates displayed on stands, bowls filled with fruit or other decorative items, vases, flowers, candles, decorative orbs and other home décor accessories.

Making your own tablescapes is easy if you keep these few things in mind:

6. Leave space. Take up no more than one third of your table with a tablescape. Leave room for people to set down drinks or the TV remote without bumping into your arrangement.

1. Consider Your Color Scheme. Choose a main color of a scheme and be sure to select enough of a particular type of item so it is repeated numerous times in the tablescape, enough to really make a visual statement. For a modern take on the holiday season, use a cool color palette of blue and silver. This theme works well for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and even New Year’s! For a rustic, cozy feel, consider using brown, rust and bronze as a color scheme. Pop with silver accents and you can create a unique and elegant mix.

2. Use Staggering Heights. Using heights and levels to display objects is appealing – three accessories in a triangular format of tall, medium and low is very aesthetic to the eye. Stack a few books and use them underneath items to raise them if needed. If you have a lamp on a table, use that as your tallest height, and work with other smaller items to fill in your tablescape.

3. Work with What You Have. To cut costs, use your existing formal china and everyday pieces as a starting point. Using what you have will leave a budget to purchase some nice additions you can go back to every year, such as garland, ribbon, linens, hurricanes and candles.

4. Use Odd Numbers. There is power in numbers – top decorators say the key to a beautiful vignette is an odd number of items.

Although not a hard and fast rule, using an odd number of elements often makes arrangements more visually pleasing.

DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 18

Some easy ideas for your tablescape include small berry topiaries, which add a beautiful burst of color without blocking guests’ view of each other. Likewise, consider setting ornaments in a bowl for a cheery centerpiece. You can also do this with pumpkins and pine cones for Thanksgiving.

Now that I have shared these ideas and direction there are no excuses!

Go create a fabulous tablescape for you and your family to enjoy this holiday season!

Tablescapes refer to the creative way items are grouped and arranged and can be a perfect addition if you prefer simple, budget-wise decorating. They are also a great way to recycle what decorations you have and creating festive arrangements for your dining table, coffee tables, end tables, mantels or shelves.

Nikki Klugh is the founder and lead interior designer at Nikki Klugh Design Group, LLC, a San Diego-based interior design firm that takes a holistic approach to transforming clients’ homes and offices into their personal sanctuary. For more information, visit NikkiKlughDesign.com.

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SCHOOL NEWS Neediest Students RiSE Academically

WITH HELP OF DISTRICT’S TOP TEACHERS Fifth grade student Ruben Ramos used to struggle with English/Language Arts on standardized tests. His proficiency level was “Far Below Basic,” which is the lowest band on the California Standards Test (CST) performance level scale. Last year, Ramos was enrolled in the District’s RiSE program, where he received intensive tutoring from then-Casillas Elementary teacher Ellen Lahlum.

Ramos zoomed up the academic charts – he scored “Advanced” in English/Language Arts on last year’s CST. The meteoric growth is a source of pride for Ramos, his family, and the Casillas Elementary staff.

the lowest bands of performance on standardized tests; the students were paired with District teachers who had a track record of impressive student academic achievement.

“Ruben was a struggling student, as were all the RiSE students, which is why they were selected,” said Casillas Principal Emiko Nakamura. “We gave each of them an opportunity in a small group setting, with very focused attention from a very well-qualified teacher. It works.”

While Ramos accomplished one of the highest year-over-year improvements in the program, he was not alone. More than half the students in the program improved their CST performance at least one level in ELA, with more than 100 students improving two levels, and several others jumping three or four levels of proficiency. In moving from Far Below Basic to Advanced, Ramos improved four levels.

The District began RiSE (Response to Intervention for Student Excellence) in 2012-13 with the enrollment of 1,000 students from 35 schools who had scored in

Ruben Ramos, pictured above, accomplished one of the highest year-overyear improvements in the program.

“It is both rare and very difficult for students at the lowest two performance levels to improve because they have so many skill deficits,” said Robert Cochran, the District’s Research and Evaluation Projects Specialist. “We are amazed to see students who were Far Below Basic in 2012 who went on to score Advanced in 2013. We are looking forward to another great year of RiSE.” For his part, Ramos says he knew he was going to do well after the tutoring he received in RiSE. “Ms. Lahlum really explained to us in an easy to understand way, and she really cared about us,” he said.

Students met with teachers for free tutoring in small groups before or after school. After 15 weeks of helping students with academic skills, tutors and schools were extremely optimistic about the improvement the students had made.

Chula Vista Hills Elementary fifth grade teacher Crystal Sutton said the experience could not have been more positive. She worked with seven sixth grade RiSE students, three of which were from her class.

DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 20

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(619) 271-4385 “The RiSE program became that extra time that you wished you had in your classroom,” Sutton said. “Our students were already receiving small group instruction in the classroom, but were missing some key pieces that were just not being met during the school day.

During our three hours a week, we spent all of our time filling in the missing pieces as well as reviewing and/or frontloading information that they would need academically in the classroom.

RiSE became a time of day that the students looked forward to, and no longer dreaded. They felt more successful in the classroom, and the progress was outstanding to watch. … As a teacher, it was assuring to know that we were sending our RiSE students off to middle school just a little more prepared. I think that it was a valuable program.”

This year, teachers in RiSE will work to improve student literacy as the

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2334 Proctor Valley Road, Suite 104, Chula Vista, CA program transitions to the Common Core State Standards. For students like Ruben, the program has already demonstrated its worth. He was recognized for his achievement at the Board of Education’s November 13 regular meeting.

“Ruben comes from an amazing family with lots of support at home,” Nakamura said. “They know what he is capable of

doing. His teachers have always believed in him. They helped him focus. They helped him identify areas he could work on. He is a smart, smart boy. … It is so gratifying for his RiSE teacher, his fourth grade teacher, and his current fifth grade teacher to see the confidence he has developed. He sees the hard work has paid off. That is exciting for any student.”

APPLICATIONS FOR THE EDITOR POSITION AT OUR HOMETOWN ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED. For details, visit our website at www.ourhometownmag.com. Come be a part of our community-focused team.

DECEMBER 2013 · OUR HOMETOWN 21

CALENDAR 2013 Out & About

12/

December 08

05 Last Day

of Chanukah

LIVING NATIVITY

10am @ Concordia Church and School, 1695 Discovery Falls Dr.; Free public performance includes free petting zoo & pony rides; www.concordiachurch.com

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CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MUSICAL SPECTACULAR 2pm & 6pm, New Hope Community Church, 2720 Olympic Parkway, Chula Vista (619) 600-4160.

NINOS DE NATIVIDAD TOY JINGLE JAM COLLECTION & WRAP6-8pm @ Norman Park Center, PING 11am-1pm @ Otay Ranch 270 F Street; Ages 5+; $6 resident,

06

SANTA’S WORKSHOP

6-8 pm @ New Hope Community Church, 2720 Olympic Parkway, Chula Vista; (619) 600-4160

06-07

BALBOA PARK DECEMBER NIGHTS Annual community festival celebrating the holidays with great food, entertainment and merriment; www.balboapark.org/ decembernights/

07

11TH ANNUAL SISTER DOLORES GALA 6:30pm @ St. Pius X Event Center, 1120 Cuyamaca Ave.; Benefit for St. Rose of Lima Social Outreach Program; $115 per person; www.strosecv.com

High School Pavilion; Rancho Vista Church’s annual toy drive for children in Mexico; Community is invited to bring toys and assist in wrapping them for delivery to churches and orphanages in Tecate, Tijuana and Ensenada; (619) 540-1221 or ranchovistachurch. com/ninos

11

HOLIDAY JAZZ CAFE

7:30pm @ Southwestern College’s Music Dept. Recital Room 801; Free recital will feature the SWC Jazz Vocal Ensemble hosting the Holiday Jazz Cafe: The Rat Pack and Friends as soloists sing classic Jazz standards, along with some contemporary songs arranged for a Jazz Vocal choir; www.swccd.edu

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FAMILY FESTIVAL @ VILLAGE WALK AT EASTLAKE Noon-3pm; Free event includes train rides, holiday craft activity for children ages 12 and younger, hourly afternoon snowfalls at 1, 2 and 3pm; Bring cameras for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus; www.shopvillagewalk.com

22 OUR HOMETOWN · DECEMBER 2013

$10 non-resident; An evening of dancing to your favorite tunes

by DJ Nick; Refreshments and raffle prizes; Contact Carmel Wilson, CTRS, Recreation Supervisor II, (619) 421-7032 cwilson@ci.chula-vista.ca.us

“HO, HO HOLIDAY PARTY”

5-9pm @ Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy; Pizza dinner, dance class, and the little ones will hear the story of “T’was the Night Before Christmas”. Kids will create a holiday craft, and receive a specially wrapped gift from Santa himself! Kids ages 3-12; $25 per student; $35 day of event; www.neishas.com, (619) 585-1133,

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CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICES:

25 Merry Christmas

DEC JAN

2601

Kwanzaa

EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday 11:30am-1pm at Oggi’s Eastlake; eastlakebusiness.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

4:30pm @ FOUNDRY; All are invited; foundryotayranch.org

KIDS READY TO READ every Thursday 11:15am at Otay 4:30pm, 6pm and 7:30pm Ranch Branch @ Concordia Church; All are Library; Interactive welcome; concordiachurch.com storytime program for kids 3 and younger; 2:30pm, 4:00pm, and 5:30pm chulavistalibrary.com @ EastLake Church, All are welcome, Eastlakechurch.com

PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS Photo Credit to Schafer Photography

ARCA Produce In today’s fast-paced, always-on-the-go lifestyle, eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet can be a real challenge.

More and more individuals and families rely on fast, convenient meals to get them through the day and the multitude of activities packing the calendar. Well, one local business has set out to reverse this rather unhealthy trend.

Chula Vista’s ARCA Produce focuses on bringing fresh, nutritious and delicious fruits and vegetables and more to individuals, families and businesses throughout San Diego. The home and business produce delivery service started in June 2012 and continues to make it easy for local residents to have fruits and vegetables on the family table.

“We have a passion for helping families to eat healthy,” said Alma Villarruel, one of the partners behind ARCA Produce.

“We all have very busy schedules and so we try to make it as convenient as possible for our customers. We want to put quality fruits and vegetables in the hands of local residents and have them make eating well a regular habit.”

Villarruel, a Chula Vista resident for 17 years, says both she and her partners inspect everything they deliver on a regular basis. ARCA Produce guarantees both freshness and quality of the items they deliver. Customers have the option of home delivery for a small fee or they can come by the local warehouse and pick up their online order in person. The produce comes from all over, including many local farmers.

“With our service, families can always have fresh fruits and vegetables in the house,” Villarruel said.

ARCA Produce, 684 Anita St., Ste D-1, (619) 271-2847; www.ArcaProduce.com

24 OUR HOMETOWN · DECEMBER 2013

PIZZO’S Pizzeria No matter the location – New York, Chicago, Italy – a delicious, well made, perfectly cooked pizza is something to be sought out and savored. In Chula Vista, the options for finding a hand-crafted pizza pie recently expanded by one with the opening of Pizzo’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar in the Shops at San Miguel Ranch shopping center. EastLake resident Santino Pizzo, a first-generation Italian-American, opened the local family restaurant with a simple goal in mind.

“Pizzo’s stems from my passion for cooking and hospitality and melding them with my appreciation for the authentic, Artisan pizza,” he said. “When I think Artisan, I think of scratched-made, handcrafted and all natural. Artisan, to me, simply means respecting the tradition of culinary art of pizza making – treating food the way it should be treated each step of the preparation and baking process and never taking shortcuts that compromise the food in any way. It takes time to develop flavor.”

The early online reviews reveal scores of satisfied patrons enjoying the attention to detail Pizzo has made a hallmark of his warm and inviting local establishment. With 22 years experience in the industry, Pizzo recognizes that diners have become more sophisticated in what they expect from a memorable dining experience.

“Growing up, my uncle had a pizzeria so I have been around it a long time,” Pizzo said. “I designed Pizzo’s to have a warmth, and a family feel where guests really enjoy the flavor of the pizza. They will often find me behind the oven making the pizza. This restaurant is my baby, my heart and soul.”

Pizzo’s Pizzeria, 2322 Proctor Valley Road, Chula Vista 91914; (619) 240-3826

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RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT

LEX GILLETTE Photo Courtesy of U.S. Presswire

“No need for sight when you have a vision.”

Simply walking into a stadium filled with 80,000 or more enthusiastic fans often proves unnerving to even the most prepared of athletes. Now, imagine you are only 19, thousands of miles from home and about to compete in your first Paralympic Games representing the United States of America. As a Paralympian you not only have the challenge of your international competition, but you face the added burden of a physical obstacle to contend with as well. So, where does one find the strength to not only compete, but to excel in such a demanding, intimidating situation?

For Lex Gillette, a U.S. long jump athlete based at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista who has competed in three Paralympic Games, the answer goes back to his initial training when he was first introduced to the sport as a high school student and the belief that anything is possible if you have a vision for your future.

“In the beginning, we started off really small,” Gillette shared. “I’d start out taking five to seven steps and then jump. I’m now at 18 steps. My responsibility is to jump on that 18th step.”

All long jumpers count out their steps – the number of strides they are to take before catching sight of the board and taking flight into the sandy pit at the end of the runway. But if you are a blind long jump athlete, being exact in your steps means the difference between a medal and potential disaster.

26 OUR HOMETOWN · DECEMBER 2013

It’s been 20 years since Gillette has had his sight, but that has not stopped him from maintaining a vision for himself and his athletic pursuits. Along the way, he has been helped by countless individuals – teachers, coaches, friends and, of course, his mother.

“My mom has always been big on education and made sure I received the same education as everyone else even after I lost my sight,” said Gillette, who lost sight in his left eye at age three and in the right eye at age seven due to detached retinas. By age nine, he could only see sunlight and blurred images. “I learned to read Braille, how to walk with a cane and how to get around the community. She wanted to be sure I could be independent.”

That independence was tested when Gillette headed out to college at East Carolina University, but again he succeeded. In 2004, he attempted to make the U.S. team for the first time and nailed it. He took home the silver medal in the long jump in Greece and again in 2008 in Beijing and once more in 2012 in London. He has his sights set on gold in Rio in 2016.

“I want to stand at the top of that podium for everyone who has helped me get there,” he said. “I have a slogan – ‘No need for sight when you have a vision.’ If you have a dream or a vision, you have the ability to see something before it becomes reality.”