Our Hometown: Chula Vista & Bonita - Feb. 2023

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

OUR hometown.

South Bay Fence Inc. is a family own fence company established in 1960 by Ray Johnston. Ray Johnston was more than a fence builder. In 1951 he built a machine in his garage that would weave wire into chain link fabric. He built eleven of these machines which were sold to steel factories and later patented.

South Bay Fence is run by Ray’s two sons, Larry and Darrel Johnston. It continues to operate out of the same location it was founded and both brothers are hands on the daily operations. What started out as a small residential fence company has grown into one of South Bay’s finest and most versatile fence companies. Larry Johnston led the way to growing the company in the commercial installation direction by successfully bidding and working with local school districts and municipalities. Darrel was in the field completing the jobs that proved to be challenging and no one else would tackle. If Larry could design it, Darrel built it!

After 30 years of grooming, Lea Johnston-Cruz and Rafael Perez are breaking down barriers with custom marque signs and high security automation. It is the attention to detail with visionary execution that is key to South Bay Fence’s success. It is Rafa’s vision that leads the way for the next generation of fencing professionals.

South Bay Fence has built a team that cannot be beat! It is our employee retention that has strengthen our highly trained work force. We also pride ourselves in having three (3) graduates from the AGC apprentice program. In keeping up with the times safety is not just a tag line but daily pledge.

The motto “no job too tough” still rings true today. South Bay Fence prides itself in offering honest pricing and exceptional final product satisfaction!

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Riley Kai Intern Photographer

Multi-Function Systems

Scanners and Printers

Managed Print Services

Interactive Displays

Award Winning Service

Chula Vista Native Riley Kai, specializes in modern newborn and maternity portraiture. Her passion for photography started at a young age and inspired her to earn her B.A. in Visual Arts Media at UC San Diego in 2021 with a minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Riley serves San Diego clients with customized service and heartwarming images. She currently caters to busy families by creating in-home sessions. She also photographs dancers, families, and more! When not behind the camera, she dabbles in the unique rare houseplant industry.

BRAD MICHAEL ARI HASTIMARIA

Left to Right: Larry Johnston, Darrel Johnston, Lea Johnston-Cruz, Kevin Marshall - President of Copy Link, Rafael Perez

RACHEL

Canine Rescue for Nine Year Old Indy

On Wednesday, February 1st, at 2:45pm, a 911 call was received by the Heartland Communications Facility Authority Central dispatchers about a dog that fell down a hole. Bonita Fire Department’s Engine 38 was dispatched to evaluate the situation. Once on scene they were met by Chula Vista Fire Department’s Battalion 51 who was in the area and together they determined that a full confined space rescue response was needed.

The dog had fallen to the bottom of a 40 foot deep abandoned well that the homeowner was not aware existed. Additional apparatus and personnel from Chula Vista, San Miguel and National City fire departments as well as Animal Control, Humane Society, and CHP were dispatched to the scene to make up the full rescue response.

The initial plan was to use the ladder truck as a high point to lower a rescuer down to Indy, the 9-year old 120 pound German Shepard and retired Police Service dog. Indy was alert and responding to the voices of rescuers and his owner but unable to move his back legs. After further evaluation of the hole and its unstable condition, the initial plan to send a rescuer down the hole was not viable.

The first back up plan was to use a backhoe to dig laterally into the well and effect a rescue from the side, but no equipment or operator

was readily available. Crews resorted to their second backup plan which was to utilize a selfcinching snare provided by animal control personnel. Several iterations of this snare concept were tried and modified. Crews were able to get the snare in place multiple times but once they attempted to cinch it down it would slide off. This was both frustrating and promising to know it would work if the right combination of skill, finesse and luck were to come together perfectly.

After almost 3 hours of tirelessly trying these different methods to

see what did and didn’t worked, the crew members at the hole were exhausted and the decision was made to switch personnel and use the valuable information gained by their efforts to employ the best technique which resulted in a successful extrication of Indy at about 6:25pm. Indy, who was alert and oriented, was taken to an emergency veterinarian clinic by his owners and will receive the appropriate care that he needs. This was an amazing team effort by all present that resulted in a successful rescue and hopefully a full recovery for Indy.

“The dog had fallen to the bottom of a 40 foot deep abandoned well that the homeowner was not aware existed.”

“...combination of skill, finesse and luck were to come together perfectly.”

Chef Ann Foundation

SUHSD Nutrition Services Department Hosts USDA, CDE, and Chef Ann Foundation Tour and Roundtable Event at Chula Vista Middle School

The Chef Ann Foundation, has selected the Sweetwater District Nutrition Services Department among 23 other fellows from across the country to participate in its inaugural yearlong Healthy School Food Pathway Fellowship (HSFP) program. Over the next year, the program will develop the next generation of diverse leaders in scratch-cooked school food operations that can support future sustainable programs and drive school food reform.As the firstever federally registered fellowship program for mid- to upper-level school food professionals, participants will focus on workforce development and upskilling the profession to grow scratch-cooked school food leadership across the country.

“The Sweetwater District Nutrition Services Department is excited to be a resource for new and incoming leaders in school nutrition. Partnering with Chef Ann

Foundation, CDE and the USDA is always an honor and privilege,” said Nutrition Services Director, Eric Span. “We take pride in being selected to host the apprenticeship program and to be a resource other districts in this program.”

To be invited into Chef Ann Foundation’s competitive Inaugural cohort, Fellows demonstrated their passion for scratch cooking and school food reform through a multi-step process including an application,video and resume submission, and interviews with content leads. This dedication resulted in a cohort of 24 fellows from across the country that are committed to furthering their role in leadership and ready to accomplish real systems change.

The Sweetwater Union High School District is proud to partner with organizations committed to serving fresh and nourishing foods to our students.

State Farm® Provides New Arson Dog

For Chula Vista Fire Department

There is a secret weapon in the fight against arson crime in Chula Vista and it has four legs. This new member of the Chula Vista Fire Department (CVFD) has a nose up on arsonists and uses those skills to sniff out the causes of fires. Meet special investigator K9 Hannah, an accelerant detection canine (K-9), who is partnered with Fire Investigator Maggie Greene. The two attended a four-week canine training school funded by State Farm and are now always together at work and home.

Hannah is a three-year old, Goldador (Golden Retriever/ Labrador) who was raised by Southeastern Guide Dogs in Palmetto, Florida. She is the second fire arson dog for CVFD and the first for Fire Investigator Greene who also is the program's first ever Latina handler. State Farm has produced a wonderful video on the special bond between Hannah and Maggie and why it was an unconventional pairing. Visit

According to the National Fire Protection Association, an estimated 280,000 intentional fires are reported to U.S. fire departments each year, with associated annual losses of 420 civilian deaths, 1,360 civilian injuries, and $1.3 billion in direct property damage. The actual number of arson fires and the amount of property damage is likely much higher, as arson is an underreported crime. Arson dogs played a crucial role in determining the cause of many of these fires.

“Having Maggie and Hannah on our team is a valuable asset to the residents and businesses in Chula Vista,” said CVFD Chief Harry Muns. “The extensive training they have received allows fire investigations to be completed rapidly and with confidence. I’d like to thank Maggie for her continued hard work and dedication to this new endeavor, and welcome Hannah to our organization.”

The program is funded by

State Farm and is available to fire departments and law enforcement agencies across the United States. Since its beginning in 1993, the State Farm Arson Dog Program has placed more than 435 dogs in 46 states, three

Canadian provinces, and the District of Columbia. All arson dog teams are trained by Maine Specialty Dogs and certified by the Maine State Police. For more information about the Arson Dog Program, go to www.arsondog.org.

Maggie Greene - State Farm® Arson Dog Program to learn more..

CDA provides child care to 6,413 families

After rent, child care has become the second largest household expense, but an essential service for parents’ ability to work. In 2022, Child Development Associates (CDA) provided affordable child care reimbursement to 6,413 families and 11,602 children across San Diego. As a result, parents were able to work, go to school, or seek employment, while their children were cared for by a child care provider of their choice. CDA collaborated with 2,837 child care providers, including licensed centers and family child care homes, as well as relatives, friends, or neighbors.CDA also supported home-based child-care businesses with nutrition training and funding to improve child nutrition to 13,915 children across Southern California.

CDA has almost 50 years of local experience with child care, nutrition, and supporting the critical needs

of working families. CDA supports the needs of working and student parents with access to child care and other resources to help lift families out of poverty. Such investments not only help families but also ensure our local businesses have the reliable workers they needwith parents earning and children learning, our community grows!

“Getting child care from CDA removed so much stress off my shoulders. I can now work full-time. It was always a struggle to find someone that could help me take care of my two sons while I was at work.” APP client

CDA’s recent annual report highlights outstanding accomplishments, such as the Connected Families Program helping clients gain confidence and knowledge of connectivity through access to workshops, equipment, and an internet stipend. The CARE San Diego Program which supports small licensed family child

care home providers expand their business and increase capacity. As well as the distribution of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) stipends to thousands of child care providers providing critical financial assistance to keep their business stay open, care for children, and continue to support our community with essential services.

“At a time when families and child care providers continued to face financial hardship and the challenges of a lingering pandemic, CDA ensured families had the child care assistance they needed and child care providers received critical support to keep their business open.”

Rick Richardson, CDA President

and

CEO

If you or someone you know is in need of child care services, visit www.childcaresandiego.com, to fill out an eligibility screening application. To learn more about CDA and get access to their 2022 Annual report visit, www.cdasd.org.

“Getting child care from CDA removed so much stress off my shoulders. I can now work full-time. It was always a struggle to find someone that could help me take care of my two sons while I was at work.”

—APP client

PODCASTS

Produced by IQ Podcasts

Hosted by Michael Monaco

Episode 4

Chief Roxana Kennedy, Chula Vista Police

Topic - Chula Vista Police department using 21st century technology to protect the community

Episode 5

Chula Vista Fire Chief Harry Muns

Topic - New fire stations, and their successful ambulance service

Episode 6

Mary Johnson & Andrea Rojas of St. Paul's Senior Services.

Topic - History of St. Paul's Senior Services and St. Paul's Plaza

Episode 7

Sweetwater Union High School District Superintendent Dr. Moisés Aguirre

To the Hometown Readers

Iwould like to reintroduce myself once again to our readers in Chula Vista and Bonita. I’m Minnie Rzeslawski, Broker/Owner of 24K International Realty/The 24K Real Estate Group. In the past, I have authored articles for Our Hometown and after a slight time off, I will start once again.

Many of you may already know me, but I would like to expand for those that do not. Real Estate has been my passion since 1989. I was 25 years old, pregnant, and wanted to start a part-time business while taking care of my baby girl. Back in those days, interest rates were 12 to 14% for a home loan, it was very difficult for someone to purchase a home.

Back then, the typical way to advertise was on paper, via community magazines (Pennysaver) and newspapers. Computers and cell phones were not popular and were only starting to be implemented. Homes were listed in a big book that was updated weekly. No cell phones, no computers, only pagers!!!

Realtors at that time were not as popular as today, but I quickly become exceedingly popular as I spoke Spanish and assisted the Spanish speaking community in becoming homeowners. Thinking I would do this part time turned into a full time plus career for me.

24K International Realty opened in 1998 and incorporated in 2004. Since then, I have been affiliated with RE/MAX and Compass and continue as 24K International Realty/ The 24K Real Estate Group.

I really do feel that I am educating people rather than selling a home to them. It has been over 33 years and I am still constantly educating myself on current real estate matters and educating my clients on making the wisest decisions for themselves and family pertaining to real estate wealth.

Website: ourhometown.online

Email: info@ourhometownmag.com

Instagram: @ourhometownonline

I would like to continue the education process here in Our Hometown Newsprint. Please reach out to me with article topics that you would like to see me discuss so that I can fully accomplish that goal and be able to answer questions you may have. My email is Minnie24krealty@gmail.com. Please visit my website at www.24krealty.com or 24k. properties to find out more about my team and me. I Look forward to serving you!

Minnie Rzeslawski

FOOD WASTE RECYCLING TIPS

Place food scraps and foodsoiled paper into the kitchen caddy provided by the City or another container of your choice. Contents should then be emptied regularly into your green Food and Yard Waste cart.

Plastic bags, plastic wrapping, metal, and glass must be kept out of your green Food and Yard waste cart

Messy foods such meat, dairy, and spoiled food can be wrapped in paper, newspaper, junk mail, or paper bags.

If you have space, place the wrapped food waste or caddy in your freezer. On your service day or the night before, put all frozen food waste in your green Food and Yard Waste cart.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: : 619-691-5122 | chulavistaca.gov/sustainability environmentalservices@chulavistaca.gov

FOLLOW US: ÎÚ @sustainabilityCV | Í @sustainCV

Chula Vista Zero Waste Academy

Starts Feb. 9th

The City of Chula Vista Office of Sustainability is offering the inaugural Chula Vista Zero Waste Academy, a seven-session course to educate residents on the concepts and practices of zero waste. The free academy also will promote understanding of the City’s Waste Reduction Strategic Plan (Zero Waste Plan) and the City’s goal of achieving 90 percent waste

diversion by 2035. Open to Chula Vista residents only, the Zero Waste Academy begins on February 9 and runs through March 23 with most classes held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The sessions will primarily consist of talks from experts on a variety of topics. Academy participants will learn about the zero waste ideology, the hierarchy, the recycling business, plastics issues, green marketing, and what they can do as individuals

to think and practice zero waste. To create better understanding, academy participants will conduct a waste characterization of their own home.

Individuals that complete the academy will be recognized as Chula Vista Zero Waste Champions. A key component of the academy will be tours of local facilities including the Otay landfill and a materials recovery facility (MRF) and a

construction and debris (C&D) facility. The tours will provide a firsthand look at what happens to waste collected and offer an opportunity to see how recyclable materials are handled and prepared for reuse to create new products.

To learn more about the Zero Waste Academy and to register, visit https://www.chulavistaca.gov/ zerowaste. For more information, please call (619) 691-5122.

Managing Risk Through Vegetation Management

If you live near open space or a canyon, you know the feeling. An uneasiness surfaces every time you see smoke, or the news reports a high or extreme fire danger due to the Santa Ana winds. If you lived San Diego in 2003 or Chula Vista in 2007, you’ll remember how fast small fires fueled by dry and overgrown foliage can turn into a natural disaster within a few hours.

Recently, the Chula Vista Fire Department, in partnership with the City of Chula Vista, was awarded a $2.3 Million FEMA Grant to clear potential fire hazards in six selected canyons within the city limits. This was no easy task. FEMA only awards a certain number of grants per year, and the need for these funds far exceed the available funding. If it wasn’t for the persistent e orts of Marlon King, Emergency Services Manager, and a member of Chula Vista Fire Departments Executive Sta , we may still be living with the continuing fear of another fire disaster like 2007. There are 30 canyons and open spaces within and around the Chula Vista City limits. This current grant can only address mitigation for 6 canyons identified as the highest risk.

The e ort to apply for funding for these high-risk areas dates back to 2016 when Mr. King discovered that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) were making grants available to address “Vegetation Management” concerns in communities. Unfortunately, the 2016 grant request was not approved. In 2018 Mr. King applied again

and it was not approved but was short listed. In the years following, some of the cities withdrew or could not provide the required documentation to satisfy the grant requirements moving the CVFD grant request to the approved list. However, not without its challenges. Awardees of the 2018 FEMA grants were expected to start the work in 2019 and finish the work by April 1, 2023. CVFD were not informed about their approval until late 2021. This means that the CVFD, City of Chula Vista, and the approved contractor would have to finish the work on all 6 canyons by then.

You may have noticed some of the work already. Here’s a list of the canyons and photos of work completed, or pending to be done.

CANYONS COMPLETED:

Barons Canyon

Independence Canyon

Church Canyon

PENDING CANYONS:

Bonita Long Canyon

Goats Hill

Lynwood Hills

Special thanks go to Sam Olundunfe, Open Space Manager for the City of Chula Vista, Marlon King, Emergency Services Manager for the Chula Vista Fire Department, and Tessa Nguyen, Senior Management Analyst for the City of Chula Vista.

Below is the actual City Council Sta Report presented to City Council on December 7, 2021

ITEM TITLE

Grant Acceptance and Appropriation: Accept Hazard Mitigation Grant Funding Through the Federal Emergency Management Agency for the Chula Vista Wildland Urban Interface Vegetation Management Mitigation Project.

REPORT NUMBER: 21-0229

LOCATION:

Barons Canyon, Bonita Long Canyon, Church Canyon, Goats Hill, Independence Canyon, and Lynwood Hills

Department:

Public Works & Fire Environmental Notice: The Project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines Section 15301 Class 1 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15304 Class 4 (Minor Alterations to Land).

Recommended Action

Adopt a resolution accepting $2,377,205 in Hazard Mitigation Grant funding through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, designating the City’s agents, amending the Fiscal Year 2021/22 CIP Program Budget by establishing a new CIP Project, and appropriating funds for that purpose. (4/5 Vote Required)

SUMMARY

The City has been awarded a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant in the amount of $2,377,205 for brush clearance around several canyons within the City to reduce the risk of damage to property from a wildfire. The grant fund requires a minimum City match of $792,402 of which sta is requesting $400,000 be appropriated in the current fiscal year. Along with the $400,000 City match, sta is requesting that $1,200,000 of the grant funds also be appropriated within the current fiscal year with the remaining funds to be included in next years budget. This action is to accept the grant, establish a new capital improvement project, appropriate funds, and designate the City’s agents to provide all necessary assurances and agreements to the State of California Governor’s O ce of Emergency Services that administers the grant.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW

The Director of Development Services has reviewed the proposed project for compliance with the California P a g e | 2 Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and has determined that the project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section

“If it wasn’t for the persistent e orts of Marlon King, Emergency Services Manager, and a member of Chula Vista Fire Departments Executive Sta , we may still be living with the continuing fear of another fire disaster like 2007.”

15301 Class 1 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15304 Class 4 (Minor Alterations to Land) because the proposed project would not result in a significant e ect on the environment, create a cumulative impact, damage a scenic highway, or cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. Thus, no further environmental review is required.

BOARD/COMMISSION/COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION

Not applicable.

DISCUSSION

The City has identified wildfire/structural fire as the greatest natural hazard to Chula Vista residents. Six canyons have been identified as high priority areas for brush clearance. These canyons include: Barons Canyon, Bonita Long Canyon, Church Canyon, Goats Hill, Independence Canyon, and Lynwood Hills. Approximately 944 homes border these canyon areas. In 2018, the City applied for a Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for brush removal to create a 60-foot defensible space for the Fire Department around the abovenamed canyons. On September 10, 2021, the City received notification from the State of California Governor’s O ce of Emergency Services (Cal OES) that the City has been awarded the FEMA HMGP grant in the amount of $2,377,205. All work associated with this grant must be completed as of April 1, 2023. The State is the grantee, and the City is the subgrantee. Payment of the grant funds from the State are on a reimbursement basis and the grant requires a minimum City match of $792,402. Sta is requesting $400,000 of said matching funds be appropriated in the Fiscal Year 2021/2022 NonDepartmental budget. Tonight’s requested action would accept the grant funds and designate the

City’s agents to provide all necessary assurances and agreements that are required by the State to receive the funds. The action would: Amend the Fiscal Year 2021/2022 CIP Program Budget by establishing a new CIP Project, CTY0234 “Chula Vista Wildland Urban Interface Vegetation Management Mitigation”, Appropriate $400,000 of the $792,402 City match as a transfer from the General Fund to the Federal Grants fund, Appropriate $1,200,000 of the grant funds to the Federal Grants fund. Due to the time constraints of the grant and scheduling work around bird nesting season – the work will be done in two phases. Phase one of the brush removal work would begin immediately upon acceptance of this grant as the bird nesting season in the canyons runs from March until September giving us a short window in the current year to perform this work. Due to the immediate need City sta will utilize existing environmental and brush clearance on-call contractors to perform the brush removal services. Phase two of the brush clearance

work will be scheduled to begin in September 2022 and end by February 2023. Appropriations for phase two of this project, including the City match, will be considered as part of the fiscal year 2022/23 budget process.

DECISION-MAKER CONFLICT

Sta has reviewed the property holdings of the City Council members and has found that Mayor Salas has property holdings within 1,000 feet of the boundaries of the property which is the subject of this action. However, the decision solely concerns repairs, replacement or maintenance of existing streets, water, sewer, storm drainage or similar facilities, and the member’s property will not be a ected disproportionately to other properties receiving the same services. Consequently, pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 2, sections 18700 and 18702.2(d) (1)), this item does not present a real propertyrelated conflict of interest under the Political Reform Act (Cal. Gov’t Code § 87100, et seq.). Sta is not independently aware, and has not been informed by any City Council member, of any other fact that may constitute a basis for a decision-maker conflict of interest in this matter.

CURRENT-YEAR FISCAL IMPACT

Approval of the resolution will result in the acceptance of $2,377,205 in grant funding from FEMA for high priority brush clearance within the City. The City also has a minimum match requirement of $792,402. Since the grant crosses between two fiscal years, $1,200,000 in grant funding and $400,000 in General Fund City match monies will be appropriated to Fiscal Year 2021/2022 budget with the remainder to be included in the proposed fiscal year 2022/2023 budget. The $400,000 City match may be a negative impact to the General Fund. Sta will monitor revenue trends to identify o setting revenues as part of the quarterly fiscal updates. The following table details the requested appropriations by Department/Fund: Department Transfers Out Non- CIP Expenses Revenue Net The $1,600,000 will be appropriated to a newly established CIP Project, CTY0234 (Chula Vista Wildland Urban Interface Vegetation Management). ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT As previously stated, the grant crosses between two fiscal years. The remaining $1,177,205 in grant funding and $392,402 in City match will be included in the proposed fiscal year 2022/2023 budget.

How Fire Safety Became a Hot Issue for Chula Vista

By Rachel Perez

On February 2, 1923, Chula Vista was hit by a fire that would come to change how our city faced natural and unexpected disasters as a whole. While the rainy southern California winter weather is not the time of year you would expect a huge blaze to occur, Chula Vista residents were blindsided by the scent of smoke and loud cracks of unexpected flames on one rainy San Diego winter evening.

The Randolph Lemon Packing Plant on K Street had caught fire, thought to be due to a short circuit in the building. The plant was destroyed and every light in Chula Vista went out, leaving the city completely in the dark and most likely sending panic around the neighborhoods. Volunteer firefighters, with the help of the heavy rain that night, successfully put the fire out and no injuries or fatalities were reported. Sadly, the city was hit by another large fire in November 1923, when four buildings used for storing cottonseeds for the San Diego Oil Products Company on D Street caught fire. The city su ered a huge financial loss, which was the first huge impact on the city’s budget at the time.

Disasters such as fires are unfortunately inevitable in any community, but it is how they come back together and strengthen themselves after the matter that makes the di erence. After the chain of disastrous fires, Chula Vista City Council worked diligently to improve the fire department’s equipment and processing systems. These fires proved the city needed a new fire safety system to keep residents safe. Before 1922, there were no fire hydrants around the city at all, and the fire safety equipment included a horse-drawn cart with buckets to fill with water to throw at the flames. The horse cart was replaced with a Model T Ford firetruck in 1922, and in 1924 this same firetruck was swapped for a 1916 model Seagrave Pumper known today at the CVFD at The Old Goose. The use of the Seagrave model truck itself was a huge shift towards modern fire safety in the city: this truck had a six-cylinder engine, a state-of-the-art pump that allowed the firefighters to draw water from ponds and other water sources. The Seagrave could carry more equipment to a fire scene than previous truck models used.

Fire safety itself was revolutionized fairly close to 1923, with the first fire alarm box system being created in 1852 by William F. Channing. This type of alarm system would have eventually been used in the city’s public works as well, but the first documented fire alarm in Chula Vista was a large metal ring that was hastened in a locomotive wheel. This fire alarm was placed in front of the Chula Vista Realty Co. on Third Avenue and would have been in use beginning in 1921.

The fires of 1923 brought new infrastructure changes to our young city. The Chula Vista Fire

Department was relocated to 292 Third Avenue, next to the Police Station. The first full-time firefighter hired was Howard Jordan, who was noted as being present at the station at all times except when he was relieved by Fire Chief Smith.

Today, Chula Vista has ten fire stations ranging from F Street in the west to Millenia Avenue in the east. Chula Vista has always held a deep appreciation for first responders, with both the Chula Vista Fire and Police Departments being committed to the highest levels of safety, professionalism, and community-orientated services possible. Chula Vista’s firefighters have a strenuous job that brings a new scenery each day; anything from responding to crash emergencies, battling brush fires from strong Santa Ana winds during the hot summer months, and more serious matters. Our fire safety equipment, stations and technology may have evolved since February 1923,

but the passion of Chula Vista’s firefighters to keep our city and citizens safe has remained the same.

Additional resources used for this article: (https://www.wltx.com/article/news/seagrave-the-fire-truckthat-witnessed-history/101-43489020-588f-4189-b2a4f06e14395db6)

(https://www.merrimacknh.gov/about-fire-rescue/pages/thehistory-of-firefighting#:~:text=In%201852%20William%20 F.,29%20of%20that%20same%20year.)

(TOP TO BOTTOM:) Steve Schenherr; the first fire alarm; The Old Goose Fire Engine.

Research for this article comes from Steven Schoenherr’s “Chula Vista Centennial: A Century of People and Progress, 1911-2011”. Schoenherr’s acclaimed book has served as an educational resource for locals, students and media. Schoenherr, Steven. Chula Vista Centennial: A Century of People and Progress, 1911-2011. City of Chula Vista, 2011. (6, 10, 19, 23, 27, 28, 55, 69).

“Stress, Hormones & Health”

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(The true cause of BELLY FAT)

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NEXT SEMINAR

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Please RSVP to (619) 295-9791

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Mayor John McCann’s Desk

Public Access Priority for Chula Vista Bayfront

DREAMS INTO REALITY

As a child growing up in Chula Vista and my mother working at Rohr Industries, people would talk about the potential of the Bayfront. With many stops and starts, along with decades of planning, Chula Vista’s Bayfront has now started.

At 535 acres, the Chula Vista Bayfront will be transformed into a thriving world-class waterfront resort destination. The Plan will establish thousands of new jobs, create new public parks, protect natural coastal resources, provide conference and visitorserving amenities and build an important asset for the San Diego region, the South Bay, Chula Vista residents and coastal visitors. This remarkable project is the result of several decades-long planning e orts by a broad coalition of stakeholders, community groups, the Port of San Diego, the City of Chula Vista, Gaylord Hotels, and Pacifica Companies.

PARKS & OPEN SPACE

Approximately 230 acres (more than 40%) of the project’s total acreage is dedicated to parks, open space and habitat restoration/ preservation; with 130 acres identified for new parks and open space. These areas will include promenades, bike trails and other public access areas linking the entire bayfront.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS

The project creates and sustains more jobs, investment and revenues than all of the current businesses within the project boundaries combined AND it will provide a much-needed economic benefit to the businesses located on the two existing yacht marinas. In the project’s first 20 years, it will generate approximately $1.3 billion for the regional economy, including more than $11.5 million in annual tax revenues. It also will create more than 2,200 permanent jobs, nearly 4,000 construction jobs and numerous indirect jobs.

FROM PLANNING TO IMPLEMENTATION

Planning e orts began in 2003 and were guided by the Chula Vista Bayfront Master Plan Citizens Advisory Committee. The resulting draft land use plans were shaped through an extensive public participation program, including a comprehensive environmental study. Following unanimous approval by the California Coastal Commission. The master plan is being implemented jointly by the Port of San Diego and the City of Chula Vista in four major phases. Phase one of implementation includes the development of the resort conference center, the creation of 50 acres of public parks and open space, the restoration of 40 acres of

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

February 1, 2023 ALONSO GONZALEZ SELECTED AS NEW CHULA VISTA COUNCILMEMBER Appointment fills District 3 vacancy The Chula Vista City Council has appointed Alonso Gonzalez to fill the vacant District 3 seat on the council. The seat was vacant due to the election of former councilmember Steve Padilla to the State Senate in November 2022. Following a public interview and comment process at two City Council meetings, the Council voted 3-1 on January 31 to appoint Gonzalez to the seat and he was sworn in immediately.. Gonzalez, a seven-year resident of the City, is a real estate broker with extensive land-use knowledge including eight years of local government service in land use and policy development. He previously served as Deputy Chief of Sta for the San Diego City Council. A current member of the Urban Land Institute and the Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors, Gonzalez received his M.A. degree in Public Administration with an emphasis on financial management from San Diego State University. “I am an advocate for healthy, vibrant communities that favor inclusion over single family zoning,” says Gonzalez. “My expertise with land use and experience in local government administration are the tools that will allow me to serve the Chula Vista City Council District 3 and its residents well.”

habitat areas, and the construction of a new fire station and mixed use of residential development.

Mayor McCann is excited for the partnership between the City of Chula Vista and Port of San Diego. To learn more about the developments, go to https://www. chulavistaca.gov/residents/chulavista-bayfront

Check out Mayor McCann’s January Newsletter & Subscribe: https://myemail.constantcontact. com/--Mayor-John-McCann---January-2023-Newsletter-. html?soid=1120321610992&aid=J_ xRsksd7Es

Mayor McCann’s Social Media:

Twitter: @mayorjohnmccann

Instagram: @mayorjohnmccann

Facebook: Mayor John McCann

Alonso Gonzalez

Nora Vargas to Lead Sandag Board of Directors

San Diego City Council President Sean Elo-Rivera Named Vice Chair;

Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner Named Second Vice Chair

On Friday morning, San Diego County Supervisor and Chairwoman Nora Vargas was elected to lead the SANDAG Board of Directors as Chair for 2023-2024.

“I don’t take this responsibility lightly,” said Chairwoman Vargas. “I appreciate that you have entrusted me with the opportunity to serve as the next Chair and am committed to making sure that we’re elevating

transparency and accessibility, not only within the Board, but more importantly, for our communities that we represent.”

As the previous SANDAG Vice Chair, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria opened the meeting and led Friday’s election. Gloria has been vocal in his support for Vargas as Chair.

“Supervisor Vargas has established herself as a true leader and champion not only for just the residents of her district, but all the people of San

Diego County. There’s no doubt that she will be an exceptional leader for the SANDAG Board as we work to tackle our housing and climate crises and execute critical projects like the Otay Mesa East Port of Entry and stabilizing the LOSSAN Corridor at the Del Mar Bluffs,” said Gloria. “She will bring to this position genuine empathy, intelligence, courage, and a relentless drive to improve the quality of life for all. I congratulate her on becoming SANDAG’s new

Board Chair.”

Chairwoman Vargas previously served SANDAG as Chair of the Transportation Committee and succeeds California State Senator Catherine Blakespear, who served as SANDAG Chair since 2021.

Chairwoman Vargas is also a member of the Air Pollution Control District and County representative to the California State Association of Counties and National Association of Counties.Governor Gavin Newsom also appointed Chairwoman Vargas to serve on the California Air Resources Board.

At Friday’s meeting, San Diego City Council President Sean EloRivera was elected to serve as SANDAG Board Vice Chair.

“SANDAG plays a pivotal role in our region’s economic development, sustainability, housing, and equity for residents, and I hope to help the Board find the best path forward for the San Diego region,” said Vice Chair Elo-Rivera.

Elo-Rivera was recently elected for his second term as Council President of the San Diego City Council and represents the City’s Ninth District.

Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner was elected to serve as SANDAG Board Second Vice Chair.

“I look forward to being on the leadership team to help bring this Board together and to work toward the betterment of our region, including every city and jurisdiction,” said Second Vice Chair Heebner.

Heebner has served the City of Solana Beach for nearly 20 years. She is also one of the longest serving members of the SANDAG Board and was the Chair of the SANDAG Regional Planning Committee for three years.

To learn more about SANDAG’s priority projects, visit SANDAG. org/2022annualreport.

To view the full recording of the Friday, January 13 Board meeting, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ziwugN0luTk

Nora Vargas

THE GARY SINISE FOUNDATIONTHE TENTH ANNUAL INVINCIBLE SPIRIT FESTIVAL

By Bob Morey

On Saturday, February 4th, under a server clear azure blue sky, The Gary Sinise Foundation held the Tenth Annual Invincible Spirit Festival at the Balboa Naval Hospital. Gary Sinise, joined by Chef Robert Irvine (who provided all the food and catering staff), held the event to celebrate the hard work of the staff of the hospital and to show their support for our wounded warriors, veterans, and their families.

up for a hamburger-eating competition. The event was capped off by a concert with Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band.

The Gary Sinise Foundation: The Tenth Annual Invincible Spirit Festival

By Bob Morey

By Bob Morey

Throughout the day, there was the annual classic car show, and activities for the children including a rock claiming wall, a bounce house, and face painting. The adults weren’t left out of the fun as two tables full lined

THE GARY SINISE FOUNDATIONTHE TENTH ANNUAL INVINCIBLE SPIRIT FESTIVAL

The Gary Sinise Foundation opened a San Diego Chapter last year, their 2nd in the nation. The San Diego Chapter is headed up by Master Chief Petty Officer Chris Thorne, USN(ret), who, along with a very competent staff, with expand The Gary Sinise Foundation’s mission of supporting our wounded warriors, veterans, and first responders. As we were rushing to get this out just before going to print, we didn’t have time to include our interviews with Mr. Sinise, Chef Irvine, and Mr. Thorne. We will however present it to you in full next month.

up for a hamburger-eating competi-

On Saturday, February 4th, under a server clear azure blue sky, The Gary Sinise Foundation held the Tenth Annual Invincible Spirit Festival at the Balboa Naval Hospital. Gary Sinise, joined by Chef Robert Irvine (who provided all the food and catering staff), held the event to celebrate the hard work of the staff of the hospital and to show their support for our wounded warriors, veterans, and their families.

On Saturday, February 4th, under a server clear azure blue sky, The Gary Sinise Foundation held the Tenth Annual Invincible Spirit Festival at the Balboa Naval Hospital. Gary Sinise, joined by Chef Robert Irvine (who provided all the food and catering staff), held the event to celebrate the hard work of the staff of the hospital and to show their support for our wounded warriors, veterans, and their families.

Throughout the day, there was the annual classic car show, and activities for the children including a rock claiming wall, a bounce house, and face painting. The adults weren’t left out of the fun as two tables full lined

THE GARY SINISE FOUNDATIONTHE TENTH ANNUAL INVINCIBLE SPIRIT FESTIVAL

By Bob Morey

On Saturday, February 4th, under a server clear azure blue sky, The Gary Sinise Foundation held the Tenth Annual Invincible Spirit Festival the Balboa Naval Hospital. Gary Sinise, joined by Chef Robert Irvine (who provided all the food and catering staff), held the event to celebrate the hard work of the staff of the hospital and to show their support for our wounded warriors, veterans, and their families.

Throughout the day, there was the annual classic car show, and activities for the children including rock claiming wall, a bounce house, and face painting. The adults weren’t left out of the fun as two tables full lined up for a hamburger-eating competition. The event was capped off by a concert with Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band.

The Gary Sinise Foundation opened a San Diego Chapter last year, their 2nd in the nation. The San Diego Chapter is headed up by Master Chief Petty Officer Chris Thorne, USN(ret), who, along with a very competent staff, with expand The Gary Sinise Foundation’s mission of supporting our wounded warriors, veterans, and first responders.

Throughout the day, there was the annual classic car show, and activities for the children including a rock claiming wall, a bounce house, and face painting. The adults weren’t left out of the fun as two tables full lined

As we were rushing to get this out just before going to print, we didn’t have time to include our interviews with Mr. Sinise, Chef Irvine, and Mr. Thorne. We will however present it to you in full next month.

up for a hamburger-eating competition. The event was capped off by a concert with Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band.

The Gary Sinise Foundation opened a San Diego Chapter last year, their 2nd in the nation. The San Diego Chapter is headed up by Master Chief Petty Officer Chris Thorne, USN(ret), who, along with a very competent staff, with expand The Gary Sinise Foundation’s mission of supporting our wounded warriors, veterans, and first responders.

As we were rushing to get this out just before going to print, we didn’t have time to include our interviews with Mr. Sinise, Chef Irvine, and Mr. Thorne. We will however present it to you in full next month.

Photo by Bob Morey

Chef Robert Irvine and the Hamburger Eating Competition

Photos by Bob Morey

Gary Sinise

Photo by Bob Morey

Chef Robert Irvine and the Hamburger Eating Competition

Photos by Bob Morey Gary Sinise

Photo by Bob Morey

Annual Classic Car Show

Photos by Bob Morey

Gary Sinise

Photo by Bob Morey

10th Annual Classic Car Show

10th Annual Classic Car Show

Gary Sinise Chef Robert Irvine and the Hamburger Eating Competition

“The Gary Sinise Foundation opened a San Diego Chapter last year, their 2nd in the nation.”

“My husband and I moved back to San Diego after living in Sacramento for 10+ years. Minnie was a dream to work with: attentive, caring, responsive, motivated, honest, professional and trustworthy. She listened as we described our style and location preferences, and always found 3-4 listings that matched what we wanted. It felt like we were her only clients. It’s been almost four years since we bought our house, I can text or email Minnie with a question and she responds quickly.”

~ Sharon M.