THE C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
FREE
AUGUST 2016
SOUND OF MUSIC
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: WORLD GYM EASTLAKE LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT: ALTRUSA CLUB OF CHULA VISTA
CONTENTS/
AUGUST 2016
EDITOR'S LETTER
04 BRAVO
One of my favorite musicians,
Announcements
Billy Joel, once said, “I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity.
16
THE
SOUND OF MUSIC
It's something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we're
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
from, everyone loves music.” The amazing thing is that music isn’t just different
12 SCHOOL NEWS
among world cultures—it can
Sweetwater District Sets Goals
vary within neighborhoods
Second Chance Pell Pilot Program
and even households.
pot of cultures. One way to
16 FEATURE
honor the variety of experiences
The Sound of Music
Chula Vista is a beautiful melting
and tastes is through music— and this summer, Chula Vista brings you many options to enjoy the music you love or to experience a new musical style.
20 ON TOPIC With Love, From Neisha
Check out multiple venues and styles in our feature story. This month’s issue also brings you updates from Southwestern
23 CALENDAR Out & About
College, celebrates the 20th anniversary of Neisha’s Dance and Music Academy, spotlights multiple non-profit organizations and provides community news. Enjoy the summer and its many opportunities!
—AMBER WEBER, editor
THIS PHOTO OF STILL ILL AND COVER COURTESY OF STORYBOOK IMAGING
24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT World Gym Eastlake
26 LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT Altrusa Club of Chula Vista
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3
BRAVO
great things happening in our community
PUBLISHED BY:
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
› To the newly installed CHULA VISTA ROTARY PRESIDENTS (Pictured above, from left to right): BETTY WAZNIS of the Rotary Club of Chula Vista (Noon), TRISH ROGERS of the Chula Vista Sunrise Rotary Club and TONIE ANDRADE of the Rotary Club of Chula Vista Sunset. Every year these local clubs contribute countless volunteer hours and financial resources to make our community better. Rotary’s motto is “Service above Self.” To learn more about Rotary, please go to www.rotary.org.
SEND US YOUR
MELISSA MONROY, Design
ASHLYN O'HARA, Intern
GOOD NEWS!
Email editor@ ourhometownmag. com prior to the 5th of the month and we will do our best to put the good news in an upcoming issue.
4 O U R H OMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 16
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Advertising inquiries: Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com. Editorial Contributions: Amber Weber at Editor@OurHometownMag. com. Visit us online at www.OurHometownMag.com. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. OHTM 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. OHTM Inc has the right to refuse advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. at (619) 840−7722.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Kids' Turn San Diego Offers Family Workshop on September 10 By Cindy Grossman, LCSW
"Dear Mommy, You used to always slam down the phone when you were talking with my daddy and now you don't do that anymore. Thank you for being nicer to him! It makes me happy!" -Lexi, 6-year-old Kids' Turn San Diego Family Workshop participant In the City of Chula Vista, over 15,000 children annually experience the separation or divorce of their parents. That's almost one out of every two families living in two houses. Children impacted by divorce do not shout about it on the playground or tell all their friends. Oftentimes, they tend to internalize their experiences, which could lead to life-long consequences, like using drugs or alcohol, lower academic achievement, teen pregnancy and unhealthy relationships. Kids' Turn San Diego is here to help. Kids’ Turn San Diego was created 20 years ago to bring peace to children and their families who are experiencing family separation or divorce. As a caring non-profit organization, Kids’ Turn San Diego helps children discover their voice to communicate their thoughts and feelings about their family situation and to realize that they can be kids without the worries of adult problems. Its four-week Family Workshops for separated and divorced families provide parents the daily tools they need to be able to communicate and understand how to put their child first in their relationship going forward. Jesse, an 11-year-old Kids' Turn San Diego Family Workshop participant, recently said, "Thanks to this program, I figured out a way to tell my mom and dad that I really wanted them both to be at my baseball games. They both came to my game last Saturday for the first time since they got divorced two years ago! They didn't even argue, and I hit a double!"
For more information and to learn how Kids' Turn San Diego is changing the lives of children like Lexi and Jesse—every day—visit www.kidsturnsd.org or call (858) 521-0027. Family Workshops are offered in Chula Vista in English and Spanish. Registration for the September 10 workshop is now open.
6 OU R H OMETOWN • AUG UST 2 0 16
On your Doorstep
Don’t Become a Bad Health Statistic By Stacey Kurz
This article is the fifth in a series of monthly Healthy Chula Vista highlights. Find out more at chulavistaca.gov/ healthycv. Did you know that in South Bay San Diego over half of premature deaths are caused by four chronic diseases (heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer) linked to three unhealthy behaviors (poor nutrition, smoking and lack of physical activity)? The Healthy Chula Vista Action Plan identifies one of its seven focus areas as “Health Care and Prevention” to ensure necessary medical treatment options are accessible to residents, and the City encourages awareness and promotes preventive measures to chronic disease. Prevention is a community effort we all must take part in, from the medical system to our individual choices. Research has shown that messages we are exposed to regularly really do shape our decisions, especially when it comes to our health. As part of the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH), a project facilitated by local nonprofit Community Health Improvement Partners (CHIP), Healthy Chula Vista had an opportunity to advertise healthy messaging on a billboard located in close proximity to the corner of 3rd Avenue and Orange Avenue. Several community members noticed these billboards and immediately expressed their appreciation and excitement for positive advertisement. This prompted the city to include a group of residents in the decision making and design process of one billboard, encouraging residents to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Chula Vista resident and recent Promise Neighborhood RLA graduate Teresa Sanchez said, “I love it; it’s excellent! It looks striking with the fruits and vegetables. It’s a good beginning.” Through partnerships in the community, Healthy Chula Vista hopes to continue providing these healthy messaging opportunities to our residents. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 7
On your Doorstep
Shoes and Socks for School Students
The Chula Vista public school districts, which have a year-round school calendar, began the fall semester on July 20. The start of school after the summer often brings with it new school clothes and shoes. However, for some less fortunate children, that is not the case. These children are subjected to bullying and teasing because they don’t have appropriate footwear. New shoes and socks help build their confidence and allow them to focus on their studies. The Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) is assisting local students by conducting its fifth annual School Resource Officer NonProfit Shoes and Socks Give-Away. This
8 OU R H OMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 16
event was a tremendous success last year thanks to the generous contributions from the Chula Vista community. CVPD members are requesting monetary donations once again to provide shoes and socks for 500 boys and girls. School Resource Officers are working closely with school principals, school nurses and South Bay Community Services counselors to identify boys and girls under 18 years of age who live, go to school or attend counseling services in Chula Vista. To help provide footwear to these children, please send your monetary donation to the Chula Vista Police Department, ATTN:
Officer Caceres, SRO Unit, 315 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Checks should be made payable to “Chula Vista Police Foundation.” Please include “SRO Shoe and Sock event” on the memo section. The Chula Vista Police Foundation is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization, and all donations are tax deductible.
Identified children will be invited to the Payless Shoe Source, 555 Broadway, in the Chula Vista Shopping Center on September 18 at 8:00 a.m. to select their new socks and shoes. For more information, please call (619) 585-5704 or e-mail ncaceres@chulavistapd.org.
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On your Doorstep
City Seeks Nominations for Ribbons & Shovels Awards Celebrating projects that Beautify, Enhance, Sustain and Transform Chula Vista
Nominations for the City of Chula Vista’s Ribbons & Shovels Awards are now being accepted. The Ribbons & Shovels awards celebrate the best in art, architecture, landscape, historic preservation, environment and more. Chula Vista will accept nominations to recognize individuals, organizations or businesses that have improved the appearance and appeal of the community by investing in their neighborhoods and businesses. Nominations are being accepted for projects that have been completed between 2011 and 2015.
Anyone can nominate a project, and selfnominations are accepted.
The awards highlight outstanding new projects as well as restoration projects. Nominations are being accepted for the following categories: • New residential construction • New non-residential construction • Commercial or residential renovation and restoration • Public or private landscaping
• Improvements in the public realm • Art visible to the public • Historic preservation • Affordable housing • Green building design or improvements Anyone can nominate a project, and self-nominations are accepted. Entries will be selected by a jury that includes board and commission members and representatives of civic and community groups. The Ribbons & Shovels Awards dinner will be held October 20 at Chula Vista Center.
All entries are due September 1. For more information and the online nomination form, visit www.chulavistaca.gov/ ribbonsandshovels. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Kayak Explores Wildlife with Wetland Tours
Chula Vista Kayak offers kayakers an experience of wetlands and marshes. You can leave for a two-hour tour and come back having a greater appreciation for nature and the precious jewel we have here in Chula Vista. Owner/operator Harry Orgovan can take you on a guided wildlife tour exploring the history and forces which shaped our unique eco-zone. You will see sights such as birds of prey, terns, which migrate here exclusively to do their nesting in our region, and also a host of wading shore birds up close. Every facet of wildlife is covered; some have seen the Pacific green sea turtles, which live yearround in San Diego Bay. Prices start at $15 an hour for singles and $20 an hour for tandems. See the ad which offers discounts by mentioning this magazine offer. Tours are reasonably priced, and Harry will work with you to plan your tour for up to 15 people. No experience kayaking is needed, and it’s great for beginners, too. A brief paddling instruction with safety tips comes with all rentals and tours. So put yourself in the driver seat of adventure. Experience a tour that you and your family will remember forever. Call Chula Vista Kayak at (619) 422-3600 and talk with Harry to reserve your kayak rental or tour. 10 O U R HOMETOWN • AUGUST 2 0 16
On your Doorstep
Christmas in October Applications are Available
Hundreds of volunteers will grab a paint brush or hammer on Saturday, October 8, and join with local businesses to make a wish come true for a selected group of Chula Vista homeowners. The annual “Christmas in October” program helps preserve and revitalize houses and communities. In past years, volunteers have assisted people who are unable to make repairs to their homes because they are low income, elderly and/or disabled. The program combines the good will and spirit of volunteers with Military donated funds and materials from businesses and monies veterans and raised by local service clubs.
their families
who reside in Chula Vista, including the wounded, elderly or their widows/
Military veterans and their families who reside in Chula Vista, including the wounded, elderly or their widows/ widowers, are urged to apply. All repairs are at no cost to the homeowner. Mobile homes are not included in the program.
Anyone who wants to participate in the program must urged to apply. fill out an application and turn it in before September 1. Houses may be painted and often carpeting, windows, tile, pipes and bathroom fixtures are replaced. New water heaters, smoke detectors and refrigerators may be installed. Able-bodied family members are expected to help with the renovations. Funding for the program comes from corporations, individuals, labor organizations, foundations and civic organizations.
widowers, are
Referrals come from a variety of sources, including homeowners, residents, nonprofit agencies, police and fire departments, social service organizations, churches and synagogues. Applicants are selected after a home visit by “Christmas in October” chair and civic leader Emerald Randolph.
Applications for this year's program may be obtained by calling Ms. Randolph at (619) 250-9289. Citizens or businesses wishing to volunteer may call the same number for information. Monetary donations are tax deductible.
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
SCHOOL
/ News
Sweetwater District Sets Goals for New School Year
The doors are now open, and the goals for the new school year are set. Sweetwater District Superintendent, Dr. Karen Janney, began the recent 2016/17 Welcome Back Rally with a quote from Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Dr. Janney said, “This is not just for today’s event. We rally each day for the purpose of putting students first – as a collective group on each of our campuses and district departments. This school year
is an opportunity to build capacity of our district one person at a time.”
LCAP Is the Sweetwater District’s Roadmap
The Sweetwater District LCAP Stakeholder Engagement meetings conducted in the 2015/16 school year were a huge success. Over the course of five weeks, nearly 1,200 South Bay Community members, parents and students provided input on the district goals and objectives of the LCAP. Dr. Janney revisited the goals at the Welcome Back Rallies sharing “Where SUHSD Is Headed This Year.”
Goal 1 - provide quality-first instruction with a focus on planning and teaching to mastery.
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12 OU R HOMETOWN • AUGUST 2 0 16
Goal 2 - create a positive climate and culture through an equity lens. Goal 3 - improve communication via district and site websites. Goal 4 - complete internal and external process reviews to identify and implement best practices.
School News
The Sweetwater District strives for success for each of their students. Success can be measured in a variety of ways, such as school projects and test scores. However, the most accurate way to define success is through the accomplishment of a specific goal. The Sweetwater District goals remain consistent focusing on four main ideas:
• Ensure excellence in teaching and learning so each student is prepared to succeed in college and career.
• Create a safe and healthy learning
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environment for each student by building a culture of equity and positive climate that promotes excellence throughout the district.
• Foster and honor parent/guardian and community engagement to support excellence in each student’s success.
• Develop coherent and transparent systems for operational excellence to support each student’s success. Here’s to a successful 2016/17 school for EACH Sweetwater District student!
Sweetwater Union High School District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination based on age, gender, gender identity or expression, or genetic information, sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation; the perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. SUHSD Board Policy 0410.
OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
SCHOOL
/ News
Southwestern College Chosen for U.S. Department of Education’s Second Chance Pell Pilot Program
Incarcerated students at Donovan Correctional Facility to Receive Federal Aid to Cover Textbook Costs
Southwestern College has been chosen by the U.S. Department of Education for its Second Chance Pell pilot program, a nationwide program that provides incarcerated Americans the opportunity to receive the Federal Pell Grant to defray the financial costs of higher education.
the college and Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility, said that investing in incarcerated students provides greater opportunities for them to become productive members of society upon release and greatly reduces recidivism rates.
semester to about 50 students. The classes Southwestern College offers are unique because they are in support of an Associate Degree for Transfer in Business Administration, and that instruction occurs inside the prison face-to-face with the faculty member.
Of the 67 colleges and universities chosen, Southwestern College is one of three community colleges in California. Patrice Milkovich, director of the Crown Cove Aquatic Center and liaison between
The Second Chance Pell builds upon Southwestern College’s commitment to offer opportunities to its students at Donovan, where the college began offering courses in the 2016 spring
Superintendent/President Dr. Melinda Nish said that providing these students a path to success gives them the opportunity for true second chances when they are released from Donovan.
14 OU R HOMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 16
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School News
The Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (above), where 25 qualified inmates will receive a new Second Chance Federal Pell Grant. Photo courtesy of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
“One proven strategy to reduce recidivism is education,” Dr. Nish said. “This is why we feel compelled as a higher education provider in our community to be in the prison. To be one of three community colleges in the state to be part of the pilot program is resounding recognition of the good work we’re doing.” This past spring semester, Southwestern College offered Personal Finance and Money Management and a geography class. Beginning this fall, Southwestern College will offer personal development, communications, reading and psychology courses. Up until now, the district, through its student equity funding, was able to pay for the costs of the students’ textbooks. With the Second Chance Pell, 25 students will receive $500 to cover the costs of textbooks for four classes. The $46/unit fees will continue to be covered by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors Fee Waiver. A study by the RAND Corporation, funded by the U.S. Department of Justice, found that incarcerated individuals who received education were 43 percent less likely to return to prison. The study also found that for every $1 invested in correctional education, $4-$5 was saved on re-incarceration costs.
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 15
THE SOUND OF MUSIC
Parks, bars, amphitheaters and the bay are
alive
music
with the sound of this summer. Across the city,
indoors and out,
venues are bringing all styles of music to Chula Vista this summer.
Families, singles, old & young
are invited to check out
comfortable, eclectic, and riveting sounds
over the next month. Enjoy the offerings!
16 OU R HOMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 16
Family services THE SOUND OF MUSIC
Music
Park Summer Concert Series in the
Tim Farmer is uniquely connected to Chula Vista’s Summer Concert Series. After growing up in Chula Vista, his first job was in its Parks and Recreation department. As a 19-year old Recreation Leader, he had the opportunity to assist the Office of Cultural Arts in working the Music in the Park Summer Concert Series at Memorial Bowl. He saw members of the community come out in full force on Sunday afternoons, accompanied by their friends, families and picnic baskets, to enjoy some good music and have a great time. Chula Vista had a rich history of providing the free summer concerts, dating over 45 years. Unfortunately, the series was cut from the City’s budget in 2009 and has been unfunded since then.
Tim is still a resident of Chula Vista and an employee for the Recreation Department. No longer a Recreation Leader, he is now a Principal Recreation Manager and made it his mission to bring back the free summer concert series this year. “My community deserved it,” he states. Thanks to a grant from the Chula Vista Library Performing and Visual Arts Grant Program and a donation from the Friends of Chula Vista Parks & Recreation Foundation, the series has been resurrected; the Chula Vista Recreation Department is excited to announce the return of the Music in the Park Summer Concert Series!
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The concerts will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. at Memorial Bowl (373 Park Way, Chula Vista) on August 14 and September 11. There will be headlining bands as well as magicians, community showcases, family fun and games. The first concert, on July 10, brought out South Bay locals Bulevar Descarga, a Latin, funk, soul, rock, and reggae band that had the crowd grooving. It also showcased some participants of the Recreation Department’s ballet folklorico class from Parkway Community Center, and Godfrey the Magician dazzled the crowd with his tricks and illusions. Upcoming on August 14, San Diego favorites The Detroit Underground will bring their outstanding rhythm and horns section, along with two of the finest singers in the area, and play the hits from artists such as Earth, Wind, and Fire and Stevie Wonder. Magician Curtis Clark will work through the crowd performing amazing tricks, and opening the event will be a dancing showcase by Luis Prado, instructor for the hip hop dance classes at Parkway Community Center. On September 11, top 40 band Cool Band Luke and magician Joe Mystic will perform. For more information, or to become a sponsor/ donor for the 2017 series, please visit www.chulavistaca.gov/MusicInThePark.
OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 17
THE SOUND OF MUSIC
HarborFest Enjoy the crisp ocean air and sweet summer sun
at this year’s Chula Vista HarborFest. Prepare to dance the summer night away on Saturday, August 20 in front of three stages of entertainment that are sure to get you moving and grooving all day long! The lineup for each stage has been especially curated with the exceptional taste of the Chula Vista community in mind so you are sure to find an array of artists to please your senses.
On the Latin Beats Stage, treat your ears to the sounds of DJ Chucuchu, Perla Negra, Familia Loera Rojas Charros, Mariachi Real San Diego, Los Cardoso Lobo Negro, Manny Cepeda Orchestra and more. As always, Chula Vista HarborFest is proud to bring you the hottest Latin rhythms that never fail to put everyone on their feet. Whether you would like to sway to the soaring guitar and Afro-Latin beats of Charlie Chavez y su Afrotruko or enjoy a powerful and unique performance by the psychedelic cumbia rock band GOMA, Latin artists are ready to entice you into a sensational night of singing and dancing.
HarborFest Main Stage features an eclectic lineup of musicians representing both north and south of the region. The lineup for this stage includes DJ Number Juan, Los Hijos Del Santo, Hawai, Los Hollywoods, Vokab Kompany and Santana Soul. If you want to discover the next genre-defying masterpiece of sound, make sure to stop by Vokab Kompany’s performance. With live accompaniments by their four-piece band, they use heavy synths, guitars, bass and drums to create an innovative sound that has garnered them national recognition, having won Best Hip Hop Act at the San Diego Music Awards and featured in shows like The Today Show with Al Roker and Lightning in a Bottle. The lineup will also feature the contagious and cheery sounds of Los Hollywoods, whose EP “No Te Aguites” has been featured as Song of the Week on iTunes Latino.
The Chula Vista Community Stage will feature a lineup of performances throughout the day that is not to be missed. Having featured dancers, musicians and even gymnasts in the past, the Community Stage represents the incredible talent South Bay has to offer. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this spectacular, all-ages event featuring Chula Vista’s best performers! HarborFest 2016 is brought to you by the City of Chula Vista and presented by the Port of San Diego. For more information visit cvharborfest.com.
18 O U R HOMETOWN • AUGUST 2 0 16
THE SOUND OF MUSIC
Bonita Golf Course Music lovers
can also enjoy Friday night entertainment at the Bonita Golf Course (BGC). Established in 1956 and originally located where Plaza Bonita is today, BGC happily re-located to its current back-of-thevalley locale off Sweetwater Road over 35 years ago.
Sleep Train Amphitheatre Bay Bridge Brewing
It’s a rare bird these days being a “daily fee” public golf course that is privately owned and operated. Perhaps that’s where some of the charm comes from. “I would classify BGC as more of a local gathering place than just a golf course,” says regular George Banuelos. “Whether it’s a wedding reception, tournament fundraiser, Quinceanera Expo, band night or happy hour, there’s always something going on.”
introduced live music to western Chula Vista last August at its grand opening celebration for its Tasting Room. Owner Jim Shirey’s wife Sue played with her band, In Mid Life Crisis. Live bands play at the brewery on Saturday nights, except the third Saturday each month when karaoke takes over the brewery. Shows start at 6:00 p.m., food trucks are on location and there is never a cover charge.
“Our goal is not all about the bottom line. We know if we serve our community, our staff and our customers, we’ll be here for years to come,” says BGC’s general manager, Clayton Crawford. A key part of BGC is its classic Bar & Grill. It has a Cheers atmosphere with friendly people enjoying life.
Music genres on the schedule range from classic rock to Smiths/Morrissey cover, Rockabilly, Funk and Latin Rock.
BGC hosts live entertainment from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday nights throughout the summer. There’s no cover charge, and outdoor seating is available beginning at 6 p.m.
Upcoming bands include the following:
08/05 - Wild$ide 08/12 - Damac 08/19 – Rising Star 08/26 - Local Distraction 09/02 - Wild$ide Bar Manager Paul Marley said, "Locals love the fact that you can rock up and get free live music so close to home." Visit bonitagolf.net for more info.
Bands in the line-up include In Mid Life Crisis, Riff Tide (with Master Brewer Paul Segura of Karl Strauss), Still Ill, Santana Soul, The Jackals and more. The schedule is available on Bay Bridge Brewing’s Facebook page. Bay Bridge Brewing also has “Trivia on Tap” every Thursday, “Comics presented by Comedy Heights” on Fridays, and live music on Saturdays. Take in a show, enjoy a meal and sample a choice of more than 10 delicious craft beers. Bay Bridge Brewing is located at 688 Marsat Court, Suite B in Chula Vista. Email info@baybridgebrewing. com for more info.
is one of the largest outdoor music venues in the San Diego area. It opened in 1998 as Coors Amphitheatre, was renamed Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre in 2008, and has been Sleep Train Amphitheatre since 2013. Concerts are performed rain or shine, and visitors may pack a meal or snacks to eat before or during a show.
Check out these
August concerts:
02 - Duran Duran 03 - Weezer and Panic! At The Disco 04 - Kenny Chesney and Old Dominion 13 -
Jason Aldean,
Thomas Rhett and A Thousand Horses
14 - Demi Lovato and Nick 17 -
Jonas
Slipknot, Marilyn Manson
and Of Mice and Men
25 - Outcry Tour: Hillsong Worship, Jesus Culture, Martin Smith and Kari Jobe 26 - Dave Matthews Band 27 - Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Kevin Gates and Jhene Aiko
Journey and The Doobie Brothers
30 -
More info is available at chulavistaamphitheatre.com. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
ON TOPIC With Love, from Neisha
An Open Letter from Neisha’s
Twenty years of serving our community through dance classes and music lessons has brought me a heart filled with gratitude. Thank you, Chula Vista parents, for inviting NDMA into your children’s lives and for the cherished memories we have created together. With your parental support, we have shared the gift of dance and music with more than 20,000 kids! Notable memories include trips with students, such as traveling to Florida with scores of kids for National Dance Team Conventions. I loved the journey of creating our
Dance & Music Academy (NDMA)
non-profit Chula Vista Ballet Company with my good friends Taeko Nishino and Vanessa McEvoy. It’s been a joyful and rewarding experience to bring professional-level ballet to Chula Vista with these dedicated and selfless ladies. I have also been thrilled to witness our students graduate and go on to perform on Broadway, in major ballet companies, concerts, commercials and awards shows, and to act in movies and television shows. Recently, current NDMA students and alumni have performed with superstar Janet Jackson, Disney’s Broadway musical Newsies and the hit television show Gotham. But, my favorite times at the studio are
during class when I witness the light turn on in a child’s eyes because they “get it.” It has been an honor and a privilege to dedicate my life to encouraging kids to pursue their art form recreationally or professionally, and see them succeed. Beyond the art, I cherish the daily opportunity to share our mission of encouraging kids to lead inspired lives through our message “all kids are born worthy.” At NDMA, dance classes and music lessons teach life lessons. Our students participate in service projects such as Feed America, Danceinspiration, and performances in local schools. One of my favorite community partners is the Chula Vista Library, where we teach free dance lessons each week to young children. NDMA’s sustained growth has only been possible because of our Leadership Team, under the direction of Susan Woodend and Ericka Moore. Much appreciation goes to our dedicated team of contributing teachers and care staff. Thank you for being part of our artistic tribe and for sharing your talents and expertise with our community’s families. I thank God for entrusting me these past 20 years with the arts, with the children, and with the studio. As we move forward, our NDMA promise is to lead by example, mentoring in dance, music and giving back to our community. We will focus on character development and helping our youth understand that finding success is an ongoing venture rather than a destination. And we will continue to provide the high quality training that you have come to expect from NDMA. This summer, we are proud to take our Chula Vista Ballet Company on tour to Japan. We will return to present our season finale—a delightful combination of Snow White and Act 2 of Swan Lake. Tickets are available through www.chulavistaballet.org. I hope to see you at the show!
20 O U R HOMETOWN • AUG US T 2 0 16
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OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
Here ... you’re home!
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22 O U R HOMETOWN • AUGUS T 2 0 16
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OUT & ABOUT
AUGUST 05
SUMMER SERIES FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT @ 7 – 10 p.m. @ Bonita Golf Course, 5540 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. Featuring entertainment guest Wild$ide, this event is free to the public. For more info, visit www. BonitaGolf.net.
06
BUILD A (DERBY) CAR CLINIC @ 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. @ South Bay Family YMCA Teen Center, 820 Paseo Ranchero in Chula Vista. If you are building your own car, bring the car you’re working on, look at finished cars and get your questions answered about the race. Registration deadline is August 20. For more info, visit orangecratederby.com.
06
4TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH @ 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. @ The Vine Christian Fellowship. For more info, call (619) 961-5163 or (619) 997-8745.
06-07 SOUTH BAYFRONT POWWOW @ 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Marina View Park on J Street in Chula Vista. A free, community, twoday event, the annual South Bayfront Powwow is an intertribal celebration of Native American traditional dance, music, art and food. Open to the public. For more info, visit www. southbayfrontpowwow.com.
07
LEMON FESTIVAL @ 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Third Avenue from E to G Street in Chula Vista. Create summer fun with live bands, hundreds of vendor booths, kids’ activities and everything lemon. Visit www.thirdavenuevillage.com for more info.
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CHULA VISTA CHAMBER BUSINESS TRADESHOW & MIXER @ 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. @ Bonita Golf Club, 5540 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. This is a great opportunity for members to display their goods and services and meet other members. For more info, call (619) 420-6603. SERIES 12 SUMMER FRIDAY NIGHT
CONCERT @ 7 – 10 p.m. @ Bonita Golf Course, 5540 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. Featuring entertainment guest DAMAC, this event is free to the public. For more info, visit www. BonitaGolf.net.
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PRIDE SUMMER LUAU @ 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. @ Pride Martial Arts, 851 Showroom Place, Suite 103 in Chula Vista. Enjoy fun games and prizes, fire knife dancers, luau performances, Hawaiian food, shaved ice and a craft station. Pre-sale tickets are $12/person or at the door for $15/ person or $50/family of four. For more info, call (619) 421-1282 or visit www.prideata.com.
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MUSIC IN THE PARK @ 3 – 6 p.m. @ Memorial Bowl, 373 Park Way in Chula Vista. Enjoy a musical performance by Detroit Underground plus community showcases, a magician and family fun. For more info, call (619) 409- 5966 or visit chulavistaca.gov/MusicinThePark. SERIES 19 SUMMER FRIDAY NIGHT
CONCERT @ 7 – 10 p.m. @ Bonita Golf Course, 5540 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. Featuring entertainment guest Rising Star, this event is free to the public. For more info, visit www.BonitaGolf.net.
PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
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HARBORFEST @ 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. @ Bayside Park, 999 Bayside Parkway in Chula Vista. The Festival on the Bay will have three stages, tacos and food trucks, craft beer and spirits. Bring the family to this free event. For more info, visit www. cvharborfest.com.
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CHULA VISTA BALLET presents Snow White @ 2 and 6 p.m. @ The Chapman Theater for Performing Arts, Eastlake High School, 1120 Eastlake Parkway, Chula Vista 91915. Tickets are $20 at chulavistaballet.org or at the Chula Vista Ballet office, 870 Jetty Lane in Chula Vista.
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CHULA VISTA COMMUNITY DAY AT PETCO PARK Padres vs. D-backs @ 5:40 p.m. Free t-shirt with first 500 tickets sold and special pregame ceremony on the field. Enjoy some baseball, support our community and save up to 30% with promo code CV2016 at Padres.com/ChulaVista.
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EASTLAKE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT @ 11:30 a.m. @ EastLake Country Club, 375 Clubhouse Drive in Chula Vista. Promote your business on the Golf Course to local leaders, business owners and educators. Hole sponsorships start at $200. Call (619) 997-6470 or email info@ eefkids.org to register your team. For more info, visit eefkids.com SERIES 26 SUMMER FRIDAY NIGHT
CONCERT @ 7 – 10 p.m. @ Bonita Golf Course, 5540 Sweetwater Road in Bonita. Featuring entertainment guest Local Distraction, this event is free to the public. For more info, visit www.BonitaGolf.net.
MOVIES 26 SUMMER IN THE PARK @ 7 – 9 p.m. @ Heritage Park, 1381 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Featured movie is Zootopia. Bring friends and family, blankets, chairs and snacks for this free event. For more info, visit www. summermoviesinthepark. com.
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ORANGE CRATE DERBY @ 7:30 a.m. @ Rancho Del Rey Parkway between Terra Nova Drive and Del Rey Boulevard in Chula Vista. This is a wonderful event for families and kids ages 7-14. The flag ceremony and race begin promptly at 8 a.m. Open practice will be at the same location on Saturday 08/27 at 9 a.m. For more info or to register, visit www. orangecratederby.com. On your mark, get set, go!
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FREE FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT @ 6:30 - 9 p.m. @ Montevalle Recreation Center, 840 Duncan Ranch Road in Chula Vista. Featured movie is Max! Recreation activities begin at 6:30pm and movie begins at dusk! Bring friends and family, blankets, chairs and snacks.
EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Eastlake Tavern & Bowl, Eastlake; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; www.ebanetworking.com. FARMER’S MARKET Thursdays @ Third Avenue Village Association (Third Ave. & Center St.); 3-7 p.m.
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BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
World Gym Eastlake
In 1996, a group of fitness entrepreneurs developed the helpful staff is second to none. Our ‘united family’ concept first family club concept in Mexico, offering services and is unique because we provide the entire family a place facilities of the highest quality. This was the origin of to spend time together while still meeting the needs and Sports World, which would see explosive growth in the expectations of individuals,” says Brian Blacher, General years to follow. By the end of 2015, Sports World had Manager of World Gym Eastlake. expanded to include 40 locations throughout North America. Because of its years of Recently World Gym added a new member to experience and the addition of world-class the family of services, SafeSplash Swim School. The vision fitness leadership, it was able to continue on a This offers a positive and fun experience to was to massive expansion plan, making Sports World students with the ultimate goal of helping provide one of the premiere fitness organizations in them be safe, happy, confident and lifelong families and North America. swimmers. Registration is open year-round. In 2008, the President of Sports World and a handful of investors opened Chula Vista’s first premier health and fitness facility b2be Sports & Wellness. The vision was to provide families and individuals with the newest in personal fitness, homeopathic and health services. The staff was hand-selected to deliver the ultimate wellness experience.
individuals with the newest in personal fitness, homeopathic and health services.
With sights to expand in the U.S. market, b2be recently decided to rebrand with global franchise World Gym. Today b2be Sports and Wellness is World Gym Eastlake. With this brand the company hopes to promote the benefits of health and fitness to more communities. “World Gym Eastlake combines state-of-the-art equipment, luxurious facilities, [and] family programming with unprecedented service levels. Our incredibly friendly and
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World Gym Eastlake has a strong social and economic conscience by providing over 100 jobs. It also has a long standing tradition in supporting and partnering with local organizations like the Eastlake Educational Foundation, Zumba-thons and cancer awareness events.
Services with membership include cross training, P90X, Insanity and TRX classes. Also included is a menu of spa-like services such as towel service, steam showers, sauna, shoe shining, steam pressing of clothing, coffee and fruit, to name a few. World Gym Eastlake offers resort-style amenities without the high price tag and is accessible every day.
To learn more, go to www.worldgymeastlake.com or call (619) 754-6812 to schedule your free tour.
ï‚‚ Follow @ourhometownchulavista on Facebook!
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LOCAL ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT
Altrusa Club of Chula Vista
“We make our communities better through leadership, partnership and service.” That is the goal of Altrusa International, which will celebrate its centennial in April 2017. Altrusa is a community service organization with a focus on literacy and other local needs. Founded in 1917, Altrusa was considered “a pioneer of women’s service groups” dedicated to leadership development and community service. Today Altrusa International has an active membership that includes both men and women with clubs in 14 districts all over the world. Last year, Altrusans gave more than a million volunteer hours, including clubs in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, England, Bermuda, Ireland, India, Scotland, New Zealand and Russia. The Altrusa Club of Chula Vista was chartered in June 1958, and the club’s foundation was incorporated in November 2006. It is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The club sponsors the ASTRA Volunteer Club of Southwestern College, which was chartered in March 2010. ASTRA clubs are volunteer organizations for students in middle schools, high schools and college students of any age.
We simply ask our members to do what they can, when they can… As the club tells their new members, ‘You don’t join Altrusa, you become an Altrusan.’
Altrusa Club of Chula Vista currently has 37 passionate members who are making a difference in the community every day. An ideal member is someone who is interested in the community, willing to dedicate time in providing service to help those in need, willing to share her/
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his talents and grow as an individual. Many members are current or retired teachers, school and city administrators, librarians and others who are involved in the business and financial community. “We are an active, fun group of women,” exclaimed Shauna Stokes, past club president. “As one of our recipients told us, ‘You ladies rock!’ We enjoy each other’s company—not just at our business meetings, but at our annual Del Mar races get-together, December holiday party and gift exchange, and member/potential member event with wine and food. We simply ask our members to do what they can, when they can…As the club tells their new members, ‘You don’t join Altrusa, you become an Altrusan.’” This year the club’s service plan includes funding and/or volunteering time for more than 20 projects that support a variety of literacy-based projects and programs for children and adults affected by domestic violence or poverty. The club foundation holds an annual fashion show fundraiser to support the club’s many service projects. In the 10 years since the Foundation was formed, it has given more than $150,000 to local causes.
This year's event, "Just Imagine!", will be Saturday, September 10, at Loews Coronado Bay Resort from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $55. For more information on how to become a member or to purchase tickets to the fashion show, visit www.altrusacv.org.
Has someone in the Sweetwater School District done something great? The Sweetwater Stars program wants to highlight those that shine! We want to recognize the individuals that make a difference and have a positive impact in our school district.
You can submit your comments online at
www.sweetwaterschools.org/SweetwaterStars Physical Cards can be picked up in the main office at your school site
The Sweetwater District has added a new component to the district’s Professional Growth program by way of a blog. The SUHSD Learns blog will showcase the learning that happens every day across the district. Each day a short blog post will be posted, written by a Sweetwater community member (student, teacher, counselor, classified staff, administrator, district staff, Board Member, parent, community member, etc.). The goal is to celebrate learning in all its forms. SUHSD Learns launched on July 20th, 2016, our first day of school for the 2016-17 school year.
Reading the blog daily Sign up to receive SUHSD Learns blog in your email in-box. You can visit the News page on the Professional Growth website daily to read each blog.
Writing for the Project Each blog entry should be approximately 250 words, answering the prompt “What did you learn today?” Blog entries can include a picture or video segment (if students are shown, we must have student permission form completed) The author of the blog should also submit a short biography (with or without a picture!) telling us who you are within the SUHSD learning community
Are you ready to write for the project?
Once you submit your form, you will be emailed about the details of your blog submission, including when your blog is due. We are currently looking for blog writers for August and September. Please Visit professionalgrowth.sweetwaterschools.org for more information “Sweetwater Union High School District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination based on age, gender, gender identity or expression, or genetic information, sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation; the perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.” SUHSD Board Policy 0410.
“Sweetwater Union High School District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination based on age, gender, gender identity or expression, or genetic inform