Our Hometown - Chula Vista Feb 2024

FEBRUARY 2024 | VOLUME 24 | ISSUE 2

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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CHULA VISTA & BONITA FEBRUARY 2024 | VOLUME 24 | ISSUE 2

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Las Primeras

F

or 74 years, Las Primeras has been a force for good in the South Bay community.

Embracing empathy and compassion, the mission of this volunteer group of women has been to “offer hope and encouragement to those in need while fostering their independence”.

Las Primeras has been dedicated to supporting numerous local charities throughout their existence, including twenty-nine just last year! 2023 beneficiaries included Arc of San Diego, the Chula Vista Police Foundation, CAST, The Living Coast Discovery Center, South Bay Pioneers, and many others. Las Primeras knows that “it takes a village” and none of their success would be possible without the support received from community members who have always been cherished partners.

Las Primeras will celebrate their 74th milestone year with “A Night in Black and White” on March 23, 2024 at The Bonita Golf Course. Event chairwomen, Cathy Shaw and Beth Atayde are working diligently to make sure it will be a night to remember for those in attendance! This special event will include a Carved Prime Rib Buffet, a Wine Pull, Silent and Live Auctions and Dancing to Live Music by “Groove Therapy”.

Tickets are available for $150.00 per person for anyone interested in attending this yearly gala. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

If interested in attending or a sponsorship opportunity please use the attached QR codes to complete your transaction.

Scan to help sponsor

Scan for ticket purchase

Don’t Let All That Great Backyard Fruit Go To Waste

I

n another effort to reduce waste, the City of Chula Vista has teamed up with ProduceGood to “recover and upcycle” edible fruit and produce and provide it to those in need.

Gleaning is the gathering of surplus food from farms, gardens, backyards, and orchards to help relieve food insecurity.

If you have fruit trees, donate your extra backyard fruit! Reduce the nuisance of rotting fruit attracting rodents and insects. Volunteers from Produce Good will pick the fruit and distribute it to the hungry.

If you have a vehicle, volunteer as a driver! You can move the picked fruit to recipients.

If you have time, volunteer as a gleaner! Produce Good welcomes volunteers of all ages, including families and groups, for whatever amount of time you have to give.

Visit ProduceGood’s website at: www.producegood.org

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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E D U C AT I O N N E W S

Chula Vista Altrusa Club Working to Inspire MAAC Community Charter School Students

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ltrusa International, Inc. of Chula Vista and MAAC Community Charter School (School) are working together on a joint project called “IDEA” (Inspiring a Desire for Educational Achievement), which is being funded by a $4,000 Altrusa International Foundation grant, $2,400 from the School, and $1,200 from Altrusa Club of Chula Vista, Inc. Foundation. The goal of the project is to inspire at-risk students to pursue higher education and meaningful careers - to “see” themselves in a place beyond their current circumstances. Part of the project consists of inspirational presentations by Altrusans, Chula Vista Noon Rotary Club members and Altrusa friends to students during advisory classes. The December and January speakers were Altrusans Isis Perez and Eva Salas, Rotarians Jeanette Badal and Michael Monaco, and Altrusa Friends Edalia and Jose Gomez.

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From left to right: Jeanette Badal, with Altrusans Irasema Quilantan, Gloria Parra, Isis Perez, and Kristi Phillips.

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Isis is from a small town and a first-generation college graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree in Biology from UCSD, and a Master of Science degree at Chico State. She works as a biochemist for a leading San Francisco pharmaceutical company working on a cure for dementia. Passionate about finding cures for diseases that impact the quality of life, Isis told students that she is pursuing a goal of earning a doctorate degree.

She shared that there is a lack of diversity at upper levels in the science profession and encouraged students to not be afraid to pursue degrees in science, stating that “Diversity on bioscience teams matters and will help lead to finding the missing links for cures of everyday diseases like dementia.” She advised students to keep learning, develop short-term plans but be flexible to change.

The ability to accept changes and grow from experiences is critical in meeting life’s challenges.

Eva talked about graduating from Sweetwater High School in National City and the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FDIM) in Los Angeles. She worked in the fashion industry, got married and became a stay-a-home mom of three children while her husband worked as a professor of Chicano

Studies at Mesa College. She stayed home for 10 years and then went to college at San Diego State University, getting a degree in Art, with an emphasis on Graphic Design, at the age of 40. Her career has involved designing interpretive signs for Santee Lakes trails and graphic designs for a number of museum exhibits at the Chula Vista Library to being the first Latina book publisher in San Diego, publishing books by five different authors.

Jeanette, a Senior Human Resources Consultant for Lucid HR Solutions, talked about her career in Human Resources (HR) and explained what that involved.

She challenged the students by asking them what their posthigh school plans were, if they had a job or were going on job interviews, what interests they had, what their strengths were, and if they had thought about starting their own business in the future. She encouraged them to talk to people in careers that interested them, to work on their resumes, do practice interviews, and learn “people skills”.

She said their first job may just be to learn skills and that it may not be what they want to pursue in the future. She said that everyone has their own path and it may take a while to find it. Her first job was

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

PODCASTS Produced by IQ Podcasts

Hosted by Michael Monaco

Episode 8 selling wedding gowns that helped pay for college, which lead to an HR career.

Edalia told students that her parents had only a third-grade education, but that education was very important to them and they instilled this value in their six children, who all went on to get their college degree or advanced degree. She told the class that they could all go to college, but that it could be difficult and that they needed to believe in themselves and study hard.

She went from cleaning homes with her mother on weekends to attending college at San Diego State University, earning two degrees. She grew up in a small agricultural city in the Inland Empire. She said, “I didn’t look like my classmates; I didn’t speak their language, as my first language was Spanish which we spoke at home. I ate burritos for lunch, not bologna sandwiches. I was told by school officials that I had a learning disability, but I didn’t. I graduated #4 in my high school.” Edalia worked in city planning, and for San Diego Gas & Electric in environmental and cultural protection as they relate to electric and gas infrastructure such as siting power lines and substations, and now pursues her interests of art making and travel.

Jose, a retired Civil Engineer and Land Surveyor from the City of Chula Vista and CalTrans, told students his parents came from Mexico and did not speak English when they moved to the United States, and had a combined three years of education. He presented a photo of orange groves in Visalia where he started working at age 5.

He joined the U.S. Army after high school, building temporary bridges for troops in Germany. He went to community college on the G.I. Bill, and realized he had a strong aptitude for Math, even though he was told in high school that Math would be too hard. Jose transferred to San Diego State University, receiving a degree in Civil Engineering and Land Surveying, and getting licensed in both fields. He encouraged students to learn Math.

“Math is challenging and takes a lot of thought. Math is a language of symbols and it’s universal. It’s also important to be able to read and write as it is powerful to be able to explain things and express yourself.” Jose pointed to a painting of a pyramid on the wall and said “Math, Science, and Astronomy is in your blood. Look at what the ancient Aztecs and Mayans built.”

Mayor John McCann

Topic - Mayor John McCann leading Chula Vista into the future

Episode 9 Chula Vista Elementary School District Superintendent Dr. Eduardo Reyes

Episode 10 Chula Vista City Manager Maria Kachadoorian

Episode 11 Sophia Hoffman Topic - As a contestant for Seasons 23 and 24 of the Voice, she discusses her vocal career and her perseverance in pursuing her gift.

Website: ourhometown.online Email: info@ourhometownmag.com Instagram: @ourhometownonline

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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BUSINESS NEWS

Elite Computers New Location

Left to right: Andres, George, Joe, Nathan

By Ari Pintado

E

lite Computers, the tech repair shop that has been serving the Chula Vista and Bonita communities since 1996, now has a new location.

The local gem has relocated to 4528 Bonita Rd, CA 91902, and is excited to continue serving the members of the surrounding area.

In a world where technology surrounds us 24/7, it has become important to find places to help upkeep all our devices. There are countless places to choose to take your equipment for a quick fix or a major project, but Elite Computers stands out among competitors not only for their high-quality tech skills but their customer service as well. Owner, Joe Kheder and his team strive to make every customer feel welcome and build a relationship of trust.

Joe originally had a career as a chemical engineer who was based in the Bay Area. After being relocated to San Diego in 1989 he fell in love with the city and its people. When it came time to relocate back to the Bay Area Joe realized he didn’t want to leave the Chula Vista area and chose to stay and open Elite Computers.

Elite Computers has two parts: it is a retail store and a service center. They offer the option to

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admission price, or isoroperated by a local to, a sporting event a flea market, thatagency, chargesand an serves an average than 2,000 individuals per day admission price, of or more is operated by a local agency, and of operation of the event, at a location that includes, but serves an average of more than 2,000 individuals per day is operation not limitedofto, a public, nonprofit, orthat privately owned of the event, at a location but A Publication of Local Umbrella Media VOLUME 24 includes, | FEBRUARY park, parking lot, golf course, street system, or other 2024 is not limited to, a public, nonprofit, or privately owned space being used an event. park,open parking lot,when golf course, streetfor system, or other open space when being used for an event.

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purchase different computer parts, accessories, cabling and more. They also sell & service Apple products including iMacs & Macbooks. In their service center, they service laptops and desktops, specially built computers for applications and gaming as well as screen and battery changes for smartphones.

They also offer a Shred-it service where they dispose of sensitive documents at a reasonable price.

Their highly trained techs are fully capable of dealing with tough tech needs. With almost 27 years of experience under their belt, they have seen the worst of the worst including major drops, water damage and even bug infestations.

Other supports offered include diagnostics, virus removal, OS reloads and data backups.

Not only does Elite Computers offer the service of custom-building computers, but they make it a point to have customers fully included in the process. Being as it is the shop’s specialty, they like to ensure their custom computers live up to their customer’s expectations and leave them with a big smile on their faces. Using the highest grade parts available the techs will tailor each build to fit the customer’s particular taste and style. Customers can expect creativity, good quality and reliability with their builds. If you’d rather try and build it yourself Elite

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Computers offers hands-on custombuild training for those who want to build their systems.

Joe finds the excitement he sees in his customers to be his true satisfaction. “What satisfies me is seeing a happy customer after we finish their project,” said Joe. “They are so grateful to see that somebody cares.”

If you are looking to get rid of or upgrade some tech pieces Elite Computers can help with that too. If your current computer is three years old or newer you can bring it in and their techs will run a quick diagnostic on it. If it passes their assessment you can use your trade-in store credit towards anything in the store

or towards a custom build. If your computer is older than the required age Elite Computers will still gladly take it and recycle it for you for no charge at all. Elite Computers believes in keeping the environment clean from excess tech waste.

If you are looking to stop by Elite Computers’ new location at 4528 Bonita Rd, CA 91902 the hours are Monday-Friday 10:00 am-7:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am-6:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am-5:00 pm.

To experience a friendly and highly talented staff, great quality equipment and a reliable and community-loving shop look towards Elite Computers for all of your tech service needs.

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

NEW LOCATION!

SCHOOL HOURS

ENROLLING

FINANCIAL AID

OFFERING

430 Second Ave

7:55 am

Pre-K to

Scholarships

Culinary Classes,

Chula Vista, Ca 91910

— 3:00 pm

Third Grade

Available

Before and After School Care

ENR OL L NOW!

Schedule a Personal Tour Today with school founder and administrator, Tanya Williams

619-213-6109 | CourageChristian.org

Courage Christian Academy, located in Chula Vista, is not just any Christian school. It is based on America’s historic Christian method of Biblical reasoning which makes the Truths of God’s Word the basis of every subject in the school curriculum. Courage Christian Academy is a Principle Approach® school whose aim is to raise up Christian leaders who can think and reason from the unchanging principles of God’s Word. Courage Christian Academy is a Biblical classical school that teaches children how to apply those principles in every area of life through the 4Rs of learning: Researching, Reasoning, Relating, and Recording what they learn in their own notebooks. Noah Webster of dictionary fame defined education as a “all that series of instruction and discipline which is intended to enlighten the understanding, correct the temper, and form the manners and habits of youth, and fit them for usefulness in their future stations.” At Courage Christian Academy we see children as a gift of the Lord who have a God-given purpose and destiny.

We are here to partner with you in that great endeavor!

Courageously securing the future of the next generation!

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

A Publication of Local Umbrella Media

POLITICAL NEWS

Mayor John McCann’s Desk

Improving Our Animal Care Facility

A

s Mayor, one of my priorities is to significantly improve the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility by expanding the number of animals housed, creating a family-friendly reception area, and making the adoption process easier. The goal is to have Chula Vista set the standard for animal care in San Diego County. We have started this evolution by becoming the regional leader in Animal Care in the South County with Imperial Beach contracting Chula Vista to be their animal care provider. My family has three dogs ourselves, and we truly know the importance of quality of Animal Care.

Chula Vista’s Animal Care Department will be 101 years old in 2024. Although the current facility is not 101 years old, there are many amenities that are outdated. I have been to the facility several times in recent years, including adopting a pet for my daughter and have seen multiple areas that need upgrading. We are currently looking to modernize the current facility with major upgrades and improvements.

Office of Mayor and City Council Directory Mayor John McCann 619-694-5044 jmccann@chulavistaca.gov Council Member Carolina Chavez, District 1

619-691-5044 cchavez@chulavistaca.gov Council Member Jose Preciado, District 2

619-691-5044 jpreciado@chulavistaca.gov Council Member Alonso Gonzalez, District 3

619-691-5044 agonzalez@chulavistaca.gov Council Member Andrea Cardenas, District 4

619-691-5044 acardenas@chulavistaca.gov

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Pet Adoption Special in February Please adopt a pet. For this February, you have an opportunity to adopt a new pet for only $14.00. There is a desperate need for adoptions, so please consider adopting a new pet. The $14 promotion ends February 28th, and application is on cvacf.org.

There are many beautiful pets for adoption, like a mixed breed, Labrador mix, and a German Shepherd that has been at the Shelter for more than a year. You can also adopt a cat at the animal shelter too.

Volunteer to Help Animals The City of Chula Vista’s Animal Care Facility has a long history of supporting our residents by saving animals and serving our communities. Along with offering adoptions, the facility also gives you an opportunity to volunteer. There are more than 1,000 community members who devote their time to make a difference. Experienced dog walkers are needed, and there are openings for ages 15 and a half and above. Different tasks include feeding animals, assisting with adoptions, data entry, and supporting the maintenance of the facility. Email animalcare@ chulavistaca.gov.

Animal Care also offers residents a chance to be a Foster Parent with their Foster Program. You

can provide a temporary home until they are adopted through the Animal Care facility. You would be helping nursing mothers and their babies, very young animals that are not able to survive on their own, very small animals that can not be spayed or neutered, medically treated animals, and animals that need a healthy and stable home environment. You are helping save animals’ lives by fostering an animal.

Thank You to Our Volunteers & Employees I want to personally thank all Animal Care Facility volunteers and employees. You do a tremendous job in protecting and taking care of the animals in the City of Chula Vista. I appreciate every one of you.

The Animal Care facility is located at 130 Beyer Way, Chula Vista, CA 91911. The hours are Tuesday-Friday from 10AM-5PM and Saturday from 10AM-4PM. The facility is closed Sunday and Monday.

KEEP UP WITH MAYOR MCCANN Twitter: @mayorjohnmccann Instagram: @mayorjohnmccann Facebook: Mayor John McCann Youtube: Mayor John McCann Next Door: Mayor John McCann Send a Direct Message if you’re interested in subscribing to our monthly community newsletter.

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WE’RE IN FOR SDRW!

MARCH 3 - 10

Presented by California Restaurant Association

VISIT SANDIEGORESTAURANTWEEK.COM TO START PLANNING YOUR

SDRW DINING EXPERIENCE! MENUS AT A FIXED PRICE!

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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F E AT U R E S T O R Y

By Rachel Perez / Photos by Riley Kai Photography

From Chula Vista to Oceanside, and 49 other neighborhoods in between, San Diegans will be able to enjoy the highly anticipated, biannual San Diego Restaurant Week again for brunch, lunch, and dinner from March 3-10.

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

A Publication of Local Umbrella Media

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

More than 100 restaurants in 51 different neighborhoods around San Diego County are in the San Diego Restaurant Week (SDRW) lineup. Each restaurant will be offering a variety of multi-course meals on special menus, starting at $20.

San Diego is a hub for both foodies and picky eaters. Food culture in San Diego plays a central role for many reasons: cultural appreciation, social bonding, celebrations, hospitality, and unity.

However, many locals may find that it can be challenging to find new dining options outside of your neighborhood that can fit within certain budgets. That’s where SDRW comes in.

“I tried a few new restaurants this past fall through San Diego Restaurant Week and found my new go-to’s,” said Chula Vista resident David Garcia. “I went with my family to Cafe Sevilla, Prince Street Pizza, and Javier’s La Jolla. I wouldn’t have tried any of these places otherwise, only because I had never heard of them before seeing them listed on the San Diego Restaurant Week website. We have definitely found some new dining traditions!”

With San Diego being the size it is, many residents can find themselves unable to branch out and explore new areas for dining.

Those in more rural counties such as Alpine or Pine Valley can also have a difficult time justifying the price for some restaurants and “save them” for a special occasion once a year. With SDRW’s dining options and locations by neighborhood growing each year, it’s the perfect opportunity to branch out and try something new.

There are two main goals for SDRW: to give San Diegans the opportunity to try new restaurants that may typically be out of their price range, and to build community by supporting smaller, locally owned family eateries. SDRW is available biannually, in both autumn and spring. The spring session of the event gives locals plenty of ideas for summer outings and new go-to’s.

The 8-day event is the prime opportunity to explore the top trending spots in San Diego. Both established venues and new eateries will be participating in SDRW. Reservations are not required to participate in the special menu options, but are highly recommended

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so you can avoid any wait times and enjoy your meal quicker.

SDRW is presented by The California Restaurant Association (CRA). The CRA is a non-profit working to provide advocacy, resources, support, savings and community identity for restaurants statewide. The association runs on a membership-basis for restaurant participation. SDRW is one of the CRA’s many initiatives to bring the community together in the county.

Hayleigh Stewart, a lead event coordinator for SDRW from McFarlane Promotions, emphasized the efforts made to make SDRW as inclusive as possible.

“We are really making an effort to expand the variety of restaurants participating in San Diego Restaurant Week by neighborhood,” said Stewart. “In the past, people have thought SDRW was just a La Mesa or Downtown experience. We have restaurants in Alpine, North County, Oceanside, Chula Vista. Anyone

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in San Diego county can participate in restaurant week, our goal is to make it as accessible as possible.”

Stewart explained that when you step into a smaller, locally owned eatery, you can often find yourself chatting with the chef or owner of the restaurant. Even if a restaurant is part of a chain, it’s often a San Diego specific chain that is dedicated to serving the community they are in the best they can.

In south San Diego, there are 4 participating restaurants in the event. Peohe’s in Coronado, Balsamino Italian Kitchen and Sea 180 Coastal Tavern in Imperial Beach, and Farmer’s Table in Chula Vista.

Farmer’s Table in downtown Third Avenue is the only Chula Vista restaurant participating in the 8-day event.

While the menus may differ each year, Farmer’s Table offered a variety of exclusive courses in their 2022 SDRW menu. This menu included pork belly, crab cakes, and salads as appetizer and starter choices; sea bass, filet mignon, and lemon chicken as entree choices; and tiramisu or limoncello for dessert options. The set-menu was $45 per person and included one option from each course section.

Farmer’s Table has several locations in San Diego. Their Chula Vista location opened in February 2021 on 330 F Street, and joins the other existing locations in La Mesa, Little Italy and Bay Park. The Farmer’s Table website describes its cuisine as “...the best of both American and Italian cuisine using only the best organic ingredients.”

At 10,000 square feet, the Chula Vista Farmer’s Table is the franchise’s largest location. It is now neighboring Dark Horse Coffee Roasters and the Chula Vista Police Department on Third Avenue.

VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

Before SDRW begins in March, Farmer’s Table will also be offering a special Valentine’s Day menu for both adults and children.

SDRW is also a huge benefit for participating restaurants and can place a spotlight on new spots to try. Stewart explained that on top of building community, it also increases reservations, overall foot traffic, and media exposure for the restaurants. Media exposure is a huge benefit for restaurants, especially smaller “mom and pop” locations. Participants in this spring’s SDRW can expect marketing through television, radio, social media and digital spaces.

San Diego is known for its vibrant and eclectic dining scenes, with special emphasis on international dishes, seafood, craft beverages, and innovative fusion cuisine. The list of participating SDRW locations is increasing each week, so it’s smart to check out the website frequently to see new options.

The dining industry is one with the highest rates of turnover in San Diego, especially for smaller or family owned establishments. In the years following the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, it’s vital to keep our local economy flowing and keep community engagement up.

Food and dining, especially local dining, is the perfect way to do that.

To help you participate in keeping that local economy flowing, SDRW is running an “8 Days of Dining” contest where a lucky winner will be able to enjoy dinner for two at 8 of participating Restaurant Week locations (an $800 value!).

To enter the contest and for more information on San Diego Restaurant Week, visit: www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com.

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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R E A L E S TAT E N E W S

Probate vs. Trust: Understanding the Key Differences

W

hen it comes to estate planning, two common terms that often arise are probate and trust. Both play crucial roles in managing and distributing assets after a person passes away, but they operate in distinct ways. Understanding the differences between probate and trust is essential for individuals seeking to protect their

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Minnie Rzeslawski

assets and streamline the inheritance process.

Probate: The Court-Supervised Process Probate is a legal process through which a deceased person’s assets are distributed and debts are settled under the supervision of the court.

When an individual dies, their will is submitted to the probate court, and the court oversees the administration of the estate. The probate process involves validating the will, identifying and appraising assets, paying debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining assets to the heirs.

One of the key characteristics of probate is its public nature. The proceedings are a matter of public record, meaning that anyone can access the information related to the deceased person’s estate. This transparency is designed to ensure fairness and prevent fraud but can be a disadvantage for those who value privacy.

Probate proceedings can be time-consuming and costly. The court’s involvement, along with legal fees and administrative expenses, can significantly reduce the overall value of the estate. Additionally, the process often takes several months or even years, causing delays in the distribution of assets to beneficiaries.

Trust: A Private and Efficient Alternative

EXPERT

In contrast to probate, a trust is a legal arrangement that allows individuals to transfer their assets to a separate entity—the trust—for the benefit of themselves or others. The person creating the trust, known as the grantor or settlor, appoints a trustee to manage and distribute the assets according to the terms outlined in the trust document.

One of the primary advantages of a trust is its ability to bypass the probate process entirely.

Since the assets are owned by the trust rather than the individual, they do not go through probate upon the grantor’s death. This not only expedites the distribution of assets but also provides a level of privacy, as the details of the trust remain confidential.

Trusts come in various forms, including revocable and irrevocable trusts. A revocable living trust allows the grantor to retain control over the assets during their lifetime and make changes to the trust terms if needed. On the other hand, an irrevocable trust, once established, cannot be altered, providing a higher level of asset protection.

Additionally, trusts can include provisions for managing assets in the event of the grantor’s incapacity, offering a comprehensive approach to estate planning.

34 YEARS IN REAL ESTATE San Diego Magazine - Five Star Professional 11 YRS IN A ROW!

Ask Minnie about: • Buying/Selling • Property Management • Preforeclosure Consultation • Probate/Trust • Real Estate Investments • Divorce

SAVE $5K-$15K ON COMMISSIONS! “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.

CITY REAL ESTATE Residential | Commercial | Luxury

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Minnie Rzeslawski Broker/Owner 619-804-5373 Minnie24krealty@gmail.com www.24krealty.com Hablo Español DRE#01019749

CITY REAL ESTATE Ourhometown.online — Submissions: info.ohtm@gmail.com — Advertising: sales.ohtm@gmail.com Residential | Commercial | Luxury

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FOOD WASTE COLLECTION ITEMS BELOW GO IN YOUR GREEN CART.

VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

Chula Vista Municipal Code 8.25 now requires that food waste is kept out of trash carts/bins.

FOOD-SOILED PAPER

FOOD WASTE

Paper Plates Coffee Grounds, Eggs/Shells, Fruits and Vegetables

Coffee Filters and Tea Bags

Paper Towels and Napkins

Bread, Cereals, Tortillas, Rice and Beans Seafood Meat and Bones

Dairy Products

Paper/Cardboard Takeout Containers

YARD WASTE

Grass Clippings

Tree and Brush Clippings Flowers and Houseplants

Leaves

(without planters or soil)

KEEP OUT!

NO PLASTIC bags.

NO PLASTIC packaging.

NO PLASTIC wrap.

NO compostable PLASTIC.

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

Choosing Between Probate and Trust The decision between probate and trust depends on various factors, including the size of the estate, the desire for privacy, and the need for flexibility.

While probate is a mandated legal process, a trust provides more autonomy and control over the distribution of assets.

Understanding the distinctions between

probate and trust is crucial for effective estate planning. While probate is a court-supervised process with public proceedings, a trust offers a private and streamlined alternative for managing assets. Individuals should carefully consider their unique circumstances and goals when deciding which approach best suits their needs. Ultimately, a well-thought-out estate plan can provide peace

of mind and ensure the smooth transfer of assets to future generations.

Minnie Rzeslawski has been in the real estate field for over 35 years and understands the process of selling a home in both probate and trust situations.

She can be reached at (619) 804-5373, MinnieR@remax.net.

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

A Publication of Local Umbrella Media

CIT Y NEWS

Otay Ranch Library to Relocate to Larger New Site LIBRARY TO CLOSE FOR A MONTH DURING RENOVATIONS

T

he City of Chula Vista apart. During the ENVIRONMENT. transition period, YOUR of 2023 and is projected to be YOUR COMMUNITY. YOUR CHOICE. Library will broaden its all library and passport services completed by late 2025.

Environmental Services Section, Office of Sustainability services to the public will be suspended.

The Chula Vista library passport 276by Fourth Avenue, Building C The Otay Ranch moving into a larger Otay Branch is committed to processing locations are known for Chula Vista, Library CA 91910 Ranch Branch location. The facility ensuring a smooth transition, their welcoming and “hassle-free” will temporarily close starting with careful planning to minimize environment. Patrons have praised today, and reopen at a new location disruption for patrons. the passport agents for being FEED THE GREEN! on Monday, March 4.

Meanwhile, a new long-term, knowledgeable and responsive.

The popular Otay Ranch Library permanent City library is also Several years ago, the U.S. Branch will relocate to a site within being built at the Millenia masterDepartment of State recognized the the Otay Ranch Town Center that planned community on Millenia Otay Ranch facility as the National will provide additional study space Avenue south of Stylus Street. This Passport Acceptance Facility of and seating, and integrated passport will be the first new City library the Year. It was selected from over services. The new location, at 2015 to be opened since 1995. Once 7,500 passport acceptance facilities Birch Road, Suite 1103, is more completed, the new library will in the nation for outstanding than 600 square feet larger than the provide a versatile community services from offering convenient current site in Suite 407. The two hub with meeting spaces, a hours, photos on site, and next day sites are within walking distance of passport office, and much more. appointments. one another, at one tenth of a mile Construction began in August Over the next month, the public

can access library resources, programming, and passport services at the Civic Center and South Chula Vista Library branches. The South Branch added a new passport processing location in November 2023, ensuring easy access to passport services across all three City libraries.

For more information on passport services, please visit https://www.chulavistaca.gov/ departments/library/services/ passports. To learn about Library Branch hours and programs, please visit https://www. chulavistaca.gov/departments/ library/locations-hours.

FOOD WASTE RECYCLING TIPS 1. Line a City-provided kitchen caddy or container of your choice with newspaper and regularly empty contents into your green cart.

2. To pause decomposition and reduce any smell, freeze food scraps or store in a cool area until collection day.

3. To absorb moisture, place food scraps in a paper bag or other paper material before placing in your green cart.

BENEFITS OF FOOD WASTE COLLECTION Reduces greenhouse gases, minimizes landfill waste, and creates a closed-loop system in which compost allows nutrients back into the soil; compost is currently being used for City landscaping as well as being offered to residents for free.

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F

FO

Bre Ce Tor Ric

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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CIT Y NEWS

Chula Vista Altrusans Help Grandparents Raising Grand-children NOVO BRAZIL BREWING—IMPERIAL BEACH SCAN QR CODE

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ltrusa International, Inc. of Chula Vista member Oneida Sasa is a Community Assistant II for the San Diego School District and part of the Family Engagement Team. Oneida meets with a group of 33 grandparents raising grandchildren to provide educational materials, link school and County family services on a regular basis. The group is largely comprised of Spanish speakers residing in the South Bay and meets at the South Region Family Resource Center located in National City.

This Center provides self-sufficiency services and eligibility determinations for State and County funded programs. The Family Engagement community assistants are there to support families with students in the San Diego Unified School District.

These 33 grandparents are raising 61 grandchildren ages 1 to 17 years of age. There are an additional 6 young adults, ages 18-19 who continue to live with their grandparents. These young adults were part of the initial program as young children. Oneida proudly explains that one of the 19-year-old granddaughters is enrolled in a nursing program. Many of the grandparents are raising multiple grandchildren with little to no support from County resources. Oneida has explained that due to the diverse cultures and language barriers many of these grandparents will not seek County resources for support. They rely on available community services provided through the Family Engagement Team, and struggle to provide necessities Oneida told our Altrusa Club about this program and we wholeheartedly supported doing a project to provide gifts to these families for Valentine’s Day. We chose this project as our Mary Thigpen Community Service Project for

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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the month of January, in memory of a beloved club member who we called “our angel on earth” for her big heart and dedication to service. The project is co-chaired by Oneida and club co-president Irasema Quilantan.

At our January 17, 2024 business meeting, we were joined by

members of the Chula Vista Noon Rotary Club, who generously donated $600 toward gift cards for this project, to supplement $1,000 allocated by our Club Foundation. One of the Rotarians in attendance, Max Scrivins, gave us a personal donation of $100 for

the project. Altrusans and Rotarians designed and wrote Valentine’s Day cards, and stuffed red Altrusa Foundation tote bags to give the 33 grandparents. The tote bags are filled with a Valentine’s Day card, $45 gift card, blanket throw, candy, a book, pencils, rulers, and colorful

beads. Club member Carmen Richardson printed Altrusa book plates for the books. Oneida made a presentation about the project during our club meeting. We will deliver the grandparent gifts on February 13, 2024 to the family resource center in National City.

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

A Publication of Local Umbrella Media

We Want to Hear From You! The Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) wants to hear from you! As part of our Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, we are inviting members of the community to participate in our annual LCAP survey. The LCAP survey is part of CVESD’s annual efforts to ensure that our resources are being allocated to meet the needs of our diverse student population.

Join the conversation now!

84 East J Street, Chula Vista, CA 91910 • (619) 425-9600

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VOLUME 24 | FEBRUARY 2024

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