C H U L A V I S TA - B O N I TA
FREE
FEBRUARY 2017
HONORING OUR CAREGIVERS BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: AA ASSAULT PEST CONTROL INC BOARDS & COMMISSION: CULTURAL ARTS OF CHULA VISTA
CONTENTS/ EDITOR'S LETTER Several years ago, my parents built an addition onto their home for my grandma to move into. My grandpa had died the previous year, and my grandma wasn’t in the best condition to live by herself. The addition, which included grab bars in the bathroom, a long ramp in front of the house and bright lighting in the closets, was an expensive project. But, it was a rewarding one. Where once there was a window in my parents’ living room, now there is a door— and a large ramp and railing that interrupt the living room floor plan—leading to Grandma’s apartment. Often that door is open during the day so the cats can visit each other and my parents can hear if Grandma needs help. My mom tucks in her mom every night, takes her to doctor appointments, checks on her medications and sees to her everyday needs. My dad helps out regularly, and frequently Grandma joins them in the main house for dinner.
F E B R U A RY 2 0 17
04 BRAVO Announcements
06 NEWS On your Doorstep
12 FEATURE Honoring Our Caregivers
17 ON TOPIC Mental Health Awareness
18 SCHOOL NEWS CVESD Engages Parents with ThoughtExchange
This is a lovely picture, but it’s not perfect. Mom and Dad have their own lives separate from my aging and ailing grandma. Sometimes Grandma falls and no one can help her up. Sometimes my parents feel guilty for not being by her side every minute of the day, even though they have jobs and their own grandchild to visit.
22 CALENDAR
Such is the life of caregivers. But they, in turn, need support. Our feature story this month is about the remarkable gift of caregiving and resources for caregivers. Not everyone can build an addition for a relative, and not everyone wants to or should. But all caregivers should know that they aren’t alone and that the
AA Assault Pest Control Inc.
community is here to support them.
Out & About
24 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT 26 BOARDS & COMMISSION Cultural Arts of Chula Vista
—AMBER WEBER, editor OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 3
BRAVO › To COUNTY SUPERVISOR GREG COX, who was sworn into office on January 9. Since joining the San Diego County Board of Supervisors in 1995, Supervisor Greg Cox has remained committed to improving the public safety, health and quality of life for all the families living in our region. This will be his sixth and final term. The First Supervisorial District includes the incorporated cities of Coronado, Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, National City and communities within the City of San Diego, including Barrio Logan, Chollas View, Grant Hill, La Playa, Lincoln Park, Logan Heights,
. . . great things happening in our community
Memorial, Mount Hope, Mountain View, Nestor, Otay, Palm City, Point Loma, San Ysidro, Shelltown, Sherman Heights, Southcrest, Stockton, Sunset Cliffs and part of Downtown San Diego. The district also includes the unincorporated communities of Bonita, Sunnyside, Lincoln Acres and East Otay Mesa. Here are just a few examples of what he has initiated and supported: • Created the County Fire Authority, purchased firefighting helicopters and increased training for local firefighters. • Created the Reverse 911 system that was recognized for safely evacuating residents during the 2007 fires, the
largest fire evacuation in the nation's history. • Launched a regional Graffiti Tracker program that won a major award for saving taxpayer dollars. • Worked with the Sheriff to create a Law Enforcement Coordination Center to combat terrorism and major crimes. • Fought for the creation of a statewide earthquake early warning system that would include San Diego. • Raised private funds to get defibrillators for schools in South County. • Played a key role in securing state funding for a brand new criminal court house in downtown San Diego. • Created a Law Enforcement Memorial at the County Administration Center to honor law enforcement personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty. • Helped establish the Polinsky Children's Center in 1994. • In 2001, created the San Pasqual Academy, a residential prep academy for foster youth boasting graduation rates over 90%. • Created the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Initiative. • Helped found the Chula Vista Veterans Home. • Helped promote and advance the region's Blue Economy of maritime businesses. • Led the effort to create the Bayshore Bikeway, a dedicated, 24-mile bicycle pathway around San Diego Bay. Thank you, Supervisor Cox!
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SEND US YOUR 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.
PUBLISHED BY:
MICHAEL MONACO, Publisher
AMBER WEBER, Editor
From top to bottom (left to right): Supervisor Greg Cox; Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D; Students performing at the Chula Vista Elementary School DIstrict's Board of Education Meeting; and Castle Park Middle School musicians receiving the Certificate of Appreciation award.
MELISSA MONROY, Design
“It was a great experience and it is impressive how the District is recognized by many of our state officials for students’ academic achievement, and our forward thinking in the teaching and learning of English learners,” Dr. Escobedo said.
ASHLYN O'HARA, Intern
› To the CHULA VISTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT AND SUPERINTENDENT FRANCISCO ESCOBEDO, ED.D., whose comments helped shape public policy in the state regarding English learner achievement. Dr. Escobedo was invited to testify before the State Board of Education in January regarding how to monitor progress of English learners (ELs) within California’s Accountability Framework, as well as Local Control and Accountability Plan. The EL accountability framework measure passed favorably.
› To all of the STUDENTS WHO PERFORMED AT THE CHULA VISTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT’S BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING in January. The District's efforts to bring back arts education have resulted
in local, state and national attention. VAPA Coordinator Lauren Shelton shared a report to the Board about the program and its successes this school year. CASTLE
PARK ELEMENTARY STUDENT MUSICIANS received Certificates of Appreciation following the students' performance. The Casillas Elementary Choir and San Diego Youth Symphony Community Opus musicians also performed, prior to the Board meeting.
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 OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 5 to refuse advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. at (619) 840−7722.
NEWS
/ On your Doorstep
Local Graduate is Walt Disney Imagination Imagineering Finalist
WDI Imaginations 2017 UCSD team: (L-R): Allison Masikip, Emeline Lee, Terence Tien, Julia Soderstjerna). Photo by Gary Krueger. Photo credit: ©Disney.
For this year’s competition students were given the following challenge: To apply the same design principles used in Disney’s famous theme parks, resorts and immersive experience to develop a new outdoor space within their own college or university that could address the diverse needs of students, faculty and visitors while also providing a respite from the stresses of everyday life. 6 OU R H OMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 17
On your Doorstep
Imagine your school campus becoming transformed into a theme park that highlights some of its student destinations and landscape. Picture hiking through a beautiful forest to get to biology or zip lining to your favorite coffee shop. Sound fun? Welcome to the wonderful world of Walt Disney Imagineering Imagination Design Competition. Every year teams from our nation’s universities and colleges compete to showcase these very ideas. In January, Allison Masikip, a local Olympian High School graduate and now senior at the University of California San Diego, and her teammates made it to the top six from over 336 team entries. For this year’s competition students were given the following challenge: To apply the same design principles used in Disney’s famous theme parks, resorts and immersive experience to develop a new outdoor space within their own college or university that could address the diverse needs of students, faculty and visitors while also providing a respite from the stresses of everyday life. Allison and her teammates, Terence Tien, Emeline Lee and Julia Soderstjerna, designed a project they call Pacific Trove. It’s a rejuvenating outdoor space saluting the famed history and natural icons of La Jolla. Nicknamed the Jewel City by early Spanish settlers, La Jolla’s legend tells the tale of a powerful jewel, to which the city’s beautiful, natural wonders owe their existence. In this project the powers of the famed jewel have recently been reawakened and guests follow the numerous paths to share an experience of rediscovering the relationship with nature through walking trails, tree slides and zip lines. Allison graduated from Olympian High School in 2013. She found encouragement to pursue structural engineering from her AP calculus teacher, Mr. Julio Avasan. "I'm not surprised to know of Allison's success as a future engineer…She's a talented young lady, whose dedication has allowed her to excel both personally and academically. She's truly a stand-out individual who impresses everyone she meets,” Mr. Avasan remembers of Allison. Allison notes that this competition helped her develop and strengthen skills like communication and collaboration. Her advice is, “Follow your dream and passions. Try really hard to reach your goals and not give up.” She’s also thankful for friends who also had a passion for imagineering and for her advisor Brandon Reynante. By qualifying, Allison and her three teammates were awarded a five-day, all-expense paid trip to Imagineering in Glendale, California from January 23-27, where they presented their projects to Imagineering executives.
Las Primeras Women’s Volunteer Organization Presents Saturday Night Fever Gala
Las Primeras ladies know how to party while working hard to earn money to continue changing lives. This year, Las Primeras is rocking the house at the San Diego Country Club on March 11. The party planners, Kim Piancone and Barbara Johnson, will be hanging the mirrored ball and bringing Polyester Express to “dance the night away.” Dig deep and contribute to community causes at the Saturday Night Fever gala. Visit www.lasprimeras.org to see past beneficiaries. With the help of donors and members’ dedication, Las Primeras celebrates the joy of helping others in need.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 7
On your Doorstep
Hope After Trauma “The child may not remember, but the body remembers.”
This article is one in a series of monthly Healthy Chula Vista highlights. Find out more at chulavistaca.gov/healthycv. Traumatic experiences during childhood such as the loss of a parent, abuse or neglect don’t end in childhood. They can alter brain development and have lifelong impacts on health and behavior unless young people are taught how to cope. A new film, Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope, explores the emerging science of toxic stress on children and offers innovative solutions for helping vulnerable young people become thriving and resilient members of our community. On Tuesday, February 21 at 3 p.m. at Chula Vista High School Performing Arts Center, join the Chula Vista Community Collaborative’s Youth Coalition, Healthy Chula Vista Initiative, Live Well San Diego, The San Diego Foundation and Alliance Healthcare Foundation for a special screening of Jamie Redford’s Sundance-debuted film Resilience. Find out from regional experts, educators, and service providers how to help build resilience across our region to ensure brighter futures for generations to come. This public event welcomes parents, teens, educators and providers with an opportunity to learn about the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study the film is based on and talk as a community about how we can change the life course for our most vulnerable such as at-risk youth, immigrant/refugee populations, older adults, veterans and the homeless. The film is recommended for high school students and older; a limited amount of childcare will be provided for children ages 4-11. Light refreshments will also be provided. Reserve your seat today and learn more about the event at SDFoundation.org/Resilience-Film. For resources on this topic call 211 or the San Diego Crisis line at (888) 724-7240. 8 OU R H OMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 17
On your Doorstep
Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center Under New Ownership and Operation
On January 1, 2017, the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center (CVTC) came under new ownership and operation. Ownership of the former Chula Vista Olympic Training Center was transferred to the City of Chula Vista from the United States Olympic Committee (USOC). Following a thorough application and vetting process, the City selected Point Loma Trust to operate the training center, and Point Loma Trust has established Elite Athlete Services as the effective organization for day-to-day operations. Under the new operating model, the CVTC will continue to function as an elite athlete-focused facility. “Over 60 medals were won by Chula Vista athletes over the past six Olympic and Paralympic Games, along with American records, world records, and numerous world championship and world cup medals. We look forward to building on that legacy of success,” said Elite Athlete Services President Greg Jamison. “We are on target to hit our organizational revenue goals and can’t wait to watch our CVTC-based athletes hit their own personal goals.”
Among the immediate changes are the center’s branding, management and increased capacity for international visitors, professional teams and corporate events. In the short term, new CVTC signage will be installed throughout the campus. The new Elite Team Shop is anticipated to open in February, while an expanded and enhanced tour program is also expected to resume in February. Long-term venue enhancements and additions, as well as increased housing capacity are planned. A new 100-bed dorm building is expected to open later in 2017.
“The City has worked closely with the USOC to ensure we maintain the training center for high caliber athletes in Chula Vista,” said Deputy City Manager Kelley Bacon. “We look forward to our relationship with Elite Athlete Services and the Point Loma Trust as we all look to continuing the success of the training center. We invite the community to attend the Celebration of Champions event on February 25.” The public event will include a 9 a.m. Fun Run throughout the CVTC campus, an 11 a.m. ceremony and a free festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit EASChulaVista.com for more information.
As part of the ownership transfer, the USOC will continue funding athlete programing at the center at a minimum through 2020, while also retaining the sports medicine clinic and offering on-site sport service providers. Many of the Olympic and Paralympic sports previously based in Chula Vista will continue to train at the CVTC in 2017. Archery, BMX, track and field, and wheelchair tennis will remain as resident programs in Chula Vista. Shortterm training camps that vary in length from a few days to three months will round out the athletic programming at the CVTC. Athletes from the Ukrainian track and field team and both the U.S. and Canada under-19 men’s rugby teams kicked off the first week of 2017 with training camps at the CVTC. The U.S. National Rowing Team will again spend its winter in Chula Vista, staying at the CVTC through March. The CVTC is also designated as a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site, joining a list of 18 Training Sites. OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 9
On your Doorstep
Art Award Nominations Due
Heritage Museum Opens Rohr Aircraft Exhibit
The City of Chula Vista is accepting nominations for the Gayle McCandliss Art Awards, now through February 21. Given annually to high school juniors, graduating seniors and individuals who have supported the arts in Chula Vista, the fund is named after former Mayor Gayle McCandliss, who was a strong supporter of the arts.
The Rohr Aircraft Corporation had a profound impact on the history of Chula Vista and the aircraft industry. The Chula Vista Heritage Museum, inside the Civic Center Library, 365 F Street, is focusing its 2017 exhibit on the history of the corporation following the Friends of the Chula Vista Library's annual meeting on Sunday, January 29. The grand opening honored retirees of Rohr and was attended by Jennifer Luther, granddaughter of founder Frederick Rohr.
Student award nominations for any junior or senior who resides in the City of Chula Vista may be submitted by high school teachers, administrators or counselors. Nominations of individuals who have supported the arts may also be submitted by any resident of Chula Vista. All recipients must reside in Chula Vista and selfnominations are encouraged. Categories include the “Rising Star” award for high school juniors and seniors from dance, theater, music, media, visual and literary arts. The “Bravo” award recognizes those who have helped build community pride and art appreciation, and the “Literary” award celebrates local writers. The McCandliss Art Awards will be presented at a future City Council meeting. Nomination forms are available on the Cultural Arts website at www. chulavistaca.gov/residents/ cultural-arts.
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At the Friends' meeting, local historian Dr. Steven Schoenherr gave a presentation about Rohr. As president of both the Friends' Museum Board and the South Bay Historical Society, Schoenherr was instrumental in researching the new exhibit, which includes photographs, materials from the Rohr Corporation, anecdotes from its retired employees, items from the Library's local history collection, as well as memorabilia from the Rohr family. The exhibit includes a new feature whereby museum attendees can use their smart phones to scan a QR code in a display case and link to a web page with more information about the display. Launched by Frederick Rohr, the company was the world's largest producer of engine power packages from World War II to the 1990s. Rohr pioneered the concept of a "feeder" subcontractor supplying vital airplane components to the factory where the plane was assembled. He developed new tools such as the drop hammer, and new materials, with honeycombed titanium among them. A major employer in Chula Vista from the 1940s to the 1990s, Rohr employed up to 10,000 workers in its 67 buildings on 162 acres along the Chula Vista bayfront from G Street to J Street. The influence of the Rohr weekly payroll was dramatically demonstrated in 1954 when Fred Rohr paid his workers in silver dollars, flooding the community with bags of coins. The Rohr museum exhibit follows the inaugural exhibit on the Great Flood of 1916, which closed on January 22. The museum is supported by the Heritage Museum Board, a chapter of the Friends of the Chula Vista Library. The Heritage Museum relocated in early 2016 from its site on Third Avenue to a space in the northwest area of the Civic Center Library, thanks to funding from City of Chula Vista and the Chula Vista Library Foundation. The museum is open during the library's open hours, seven days a week. The Rohr exhibit is funded by the Local Heritage Museum Chapter of the Friends of the Chula Vista Library and a Community Enhancement Program Grant, via County Supervisor Greg Cox, from the San Diego County Board of Supervisors.
On your Doorstep
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OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 11
FINDING THE BALANCE IN CAREGIVING
FINDING THE BALANCE IN CAREGIVING By Martha Rañón, Southern Caregiver Resource Center, Sophia Anguiano, ActivCare at Rolling Hills Ranch, and Hilda Araiza, St. Paul’s Senior Services
12 OU R HOMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 17
FINDING THE BALANCE IN CAREGIVING
How many of us actually say we are caregivers? We take care of our mothers, grandfathers, spouses, etc. but never stop to think about that label much less apply it to ourselves. Most of us are in that position without even realizing. Whether it’s early on in our lives or even later in life we take on that role without hesitation. With an estimated 65.7 million caregivers in the United States, nearly 30% of the U.S. adult population will provide care for a family or friend at some point in their lives. ¹ We’ve all heard of the “sandwich generation,” those individuals over 50 taking care of their elderly parents while also caring for their children. More and more we are seeing younger individuals with younger children assuming that role. Add to it the challenge of juggling a full-time job, and soon caregivers find themselves in a stressful situation. With 60% of caregivers working, many require workplace accommodations like arriving late, leaving early, or using paid or unpaid time off. ² In some situations caregivers leave work all together, and in the process lose out on career development, advancement opportunities, a sense of self-worth and financial stability.
BEING A
terrifying and gratifying all at the same time. So how do you find that balance? Taking care of the caregiver is just as important as taking care of a family or friend. About 29% of caregivers report having 4 difficulty managing stress. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed especially when we place all the responsibility on our shoulders. Caregivers have to be proactive in preserving their emotional, physical and personal wellbeing in order to be an effective caregiver. Ultimately it is the goal of the caregiver to provide the best possible care.
CAREGIVER IS TRULY A NOBLE ACT THAT MANY OF US ARE NOT PREPARED TO TAKE. YET WE DO IT DUTIFULLY, FULLY AWARE
Build a network of care around you. Confide in other family members, friends or even professionals to guide you through the process. It’s OK to ask for assistance. One of the best parts of being a caregiver is knowing that you don’t have to do it alone. Write down your wants and needs and delegate to those truly interested in helping. Oftentimes we convince ourselves that only we can do it best and no one else knows how. Show them how, and give them the opportunity to learn. You might just be surprised how good it feels to have some extra time for yourself.
THAT WE HAVE
How many times have we said we would like Just how important are family caregivers to read a book or exercise more if we had the NO IDEA WHAT to our nation? It is estimated that in the time? Breaking down that goal into one that’s THIS JOURNEY U.S about $450 billion is spent annually realistic and attainable—say, 20 minutes a by family caregivers addressing the dayday—might just help you achieve it. Find WILL MEAN to-day needs of a loved one.³ Family what truly makes you happy and do it on a caregivers provide the financial strength regular basis. It can be as simple as painting FOR US. for long-term care and are often the only your nails, doing a crossword puzzle, sitting means for a care receiver to obtain that at the beach or going for a walk. sought-after quality of care later in life. Sure, Medicare covers some costs, and our Southern Caregiver Resource Center is a nonnew healthcare reform policies offer new options. With profit organization dedicated to providing a vast array of Americans having longer life expectancies and still no free services to family caregivers. Trained staff are available cure for some of the most serious cognitive impairments to offer assistance in assessing your caregiving situation, suffered by many, the financial burden rests squarely on create a plan of care and find the best options for you the shoulders of many family caregivers. and your loved one. For more information visit www. caregivercenter.org or call (800) 927-1008. Being a caregiver is truly a noble act, one that many of us are not prepared to take. Yet we do it dutifully, fully aware Another resource is St. Paul’s Program of All-Inclusive Care that we have no idea what this journey will mean for us. for the Elderly (PACE). PACE provides coordinated medical The dichotomy of this whole experience is that it can be and social services to those over 55 who have chronic both stressful and rewarding, challenging and fruitful, conditions needing regular medical support, yet wish to
¹ Supporting Our Caregivers. (2013, March 15). USA Today. Retrieved from MediaPlanet.com on March 13, 2014. ² Ibid. ³ Ibid. 4 Ibid. OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 13
FINDING THE BALANCE IN CAREGIVING
continue living in their own home rather than relocating to assisted or skilled living. This allows seniors to receive services such as medical care, transportation, ongoing rehabilitative therapy, day center activities, social work services and in-home care services. The goal of PACE is to enhance each participant’s quality of life, and at the same time help family members and caregivers with their own challenges of providing the care. The care team mobilizes other services such as medical specialists, laboratory and other diagnostic tests, hospital and nursing home care. A comprehensive assessment is completed at the time of approval as well as every six months in order to assess seniors and their needs as they age. PACE assures that the seniors and caregiver(s) continue to play an important role in managing their health and independence. One participant named Consuelo stated, “St. Paul’s PACE picks me up from home and takes me to all of my doctor’s appointments.” PACE is designed specifically to offer an alternative to institutional living seniors and their caregiver(s). It is important for loved ones and/or caregivers to be able to enjoy their seniors and not feel overwhelmed doing everything on their own. PACE can be an excellent resource for the daily stress of having to provide care for a loved one. It can be a challenging to have the responsibility of caring for someone 24/7, but PACE can help change your situation. In order to be part of St. Paul’s PACE, applicants must be 55 or older with medical problems who need special care and
14 OU R HOMETOWN • F EBRU A R Y 2 0 17
assistance yet wish to remain in their home, meet the Skilled Nursing Level of Care requirement as determined by the California Department of Health Care Services, are able to live in the community without jeopardizing their safety and live in the San Diego County service areas according to zip codes. For more info, call (619) 677-3800. Similarly, following the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, the natural tendency is to focus great concern and attention on the person diagnosed. However, there should be as much, if not more, attention paid to the primary family caregiver. Think of the instructions given by the flight attendants prior to any flight: “In the unlikely event of an emergency, place the oxygen mask on yourself first and then on small children or loved ones who may need assistance.” This means that the primary caregiver must be functioning at optimum levels to take care of the loved one. If the caregiver is not focused on his or her own health, nutrition and overall wellness, the caregiver will not be able to keep up with the rigors of what has been described by many experts as “one of the toughest jobs on the planet.” So, how do you weather the storm and persevere? “When the caregiver is strengthened, the result is better overall care for the loved one with memory loss,” according to Bee-Bee Smith, Executive Director for ActivCare at Rolling Hills Ranch. Preservation and protection are the best way to describe the course needed to create balance in an otherwise stressful and worry-filled role. Take a daily pledge to do the following:
FINDING THE BALANCE IN CAREGIVING
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FINDING THE BALANCE IN CAREGIVING
• Eat a minimum of two balanced meals each day including protein, fresh fruits and vegetables. • Exercise for a least 20 minutes a day. Walking the dog counts.
• Seek assistance. Adult day care, in home care, respite services and the like can offer a much needed break.
• Decompress once a day. Read, sing, nap or do whatever allows you to recharge the batteries.
• Release the guilt. You didn’t cause it; you didn’t ask for it. You are doing your very best.
• Communicate daily with a support system. Talk to a friend or family member who offers positive feedback.
• You are an important person, and your loved one needs you strong, healthy and confident.
• Maintain your own health. Keep doctor’s appointments, get regular blood pressure tests and maintain a healthy weight.
Need additional help? ActivCare at Rolling Hills Ranch can assist or put you in touch with resources around town to support you along your caregiving journey. Call (619) 482-8000 for info.
• Do not adopt the disease. You are there to provide support and
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care, not to surrender your life to live like you have the disease.
ON TOPIC ON TOPIC Mental Health Awareness
Mental Health America (MHA) of San Diego– Visions Program is dedicated to improving the lives of adults living with mental illness. The impact of mental illness on the lives of one in every four adults is life changing and often life altering. According to the World Health Organization, the life expectancy of individuals with major mental illness is 10 to 25 years less than individuals without a major mental illness. With treatment and support, the life expectancy dramatically increases. Visions According Clubhouse members to the World benefit from the support Health services and assistance Organization, provided by the the life program. The program expectancy has provided meals, job training, counseling, of individuals workshops, clothing, and with major transportation to over mental 3,000 of its members. illness is 10 Staff take members to 25 years on outings to the zoo, less than beach and other places individuals which provide them without a with healthy, positive major mental activities, which illness. improve their overall well-being. MHA Visions Clubhouse encourages members to focus on their strengths and abilities and to take responsibility for their own lives, all the while utilizing the various support systems available at the Center and within the general community. Music, art and recreational skills are vital aspects to social and emotional well-being. Therefore, in addition to the classes and groups offered at MHA Visions Clubhouse, members also have access to expressive arts and recreational activities in a creative arts and music room, as well as through planned outings and events. Visit mhasd.org/ visions-clubhouse/ for more info. OU R H OM E TOW N M AG. CO M 1 7
SCHOOL
/ News
CVESD Engages Thousands of Parents in Unique, Two-way Dialogue
With nearly 30,000 students in 45 schools, the Chula Vista Elementary School District faced a considerable challenge in engaging a learning community of that size in meaningful conversation.
yielded useful comments and concerns from every stakeholder group—providing feedback about existing priorities in Chula Vista’s LCAP as well generating ideas about other areas of need.
The challenge only intensified with the introduction of the Local Control and Accountability Plan. The statemandated funding plan, referred to as LCAP, requires meaningful input from all stakeholder groups.
About 1,875 people contributed 3,414 thoughts (comments), and assigned 88,519 “stars” to the ones they valued most. Through this process, Chula Vista was able to collect rich input from a dramatically larger portion of its community than ever before.
“Looking back at our first LCAP year, we recognized that we were far from where we wanted to be. We needed more efficient and effective tools and we knew an online platform could expand the conversation with our stakeholders in ways we hadn’t yet been able to yet,” said Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D. The District turned to Thoughtexchange, which provides an online survey and learning platform, to help better understand what is important to stakeholders: students, parents, staff, and community. Thoughtexchange enabled CVESD to reach out to everyone affected by the decisions made in schools and at a District level. By asking two to three simple, openended questions, and allowing participants to respond over a 30-day period, the Thoughtexchange process 18 O U R HOMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 17
“We found a way to allow people to provide input in a format that brings into play features they are familiar with: commenting in an online forum, allocating “stars” similar to “likes,” and sharing or discovering the trends or ideas that resonate with the community,” said Ernesto Villanueva, Chula Vista’s Executive Director of Research, Evaluation and Instruction. “Yet, this takes place in a thoughtful, respectful environment.” Villanueva believes that the online platform led to an authentic dialogue that stakeholders could feel invested in. “Thoughtexchange allowed people to see comments from others in ways that a conversation or a standard survey wouldn't allow for. Even if you have a hundred people in the room, you're not going to hear
School News
“We found a way to allow people to provide input in a format that brings into play features they are familiar with: commenting in an online forum, allocating ‘stars’ similar to ‘likes,’ and sharing or discovering the trends or ideas that resonate with the community."
from everyone. Nor could you expand on some of those thoughts efficiently in that live-meeting format,” he explained. The District used the information and data gathered through Thoughtexchange to help inform its LCAP refinements, which were adopted by the Board of Education last summer. This year, starting on February 6, stakeholders will again be invited to participate via email in the three-step Thoughtexchange process: Share – Answer two to three open-ended questions about education in our schools. Star – Review ideas from other stakeholders and star the ideas you like best. Discover – Learn what is important to the community as a whole. For those who do not receive an email invitation, a link to participate will be on the District website at www.cvesd.org. “We encourage all stakeholders to ‘Join the Conversation!’” Villanueva added. OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 19
SCHOOL
/ News
SWEETPD17 IN-SERVICE GATHERS 2,000 SWEETWATER DISTRICT EDUCATORS
The day before 41,000 Sweetwater District students filled the halls and classrooms of their schools after winter break, nearly 2,000 district teachers, administrators and counselors gathered for a professional development in-service, also known as SweetPD17. At the first of its kind, held at San Ysidro High School, Sweetwater Superintendent Dr. Karen Janney called the event a purposeful collaboration designed by teachers for teachers, and staff showed district spirit by wearing their “Putting Students First” t-shirts. “Today is a powerful learning opportunity I hope we all take advantage of, to continue to build and expand ourselves to meet the needs of our students,” said Dr. Janney.
Nearly 70 breakout sessions were offered to district staff to attend after Duncan-Andrade’s keynote session. Presenters for the conference included Sweetwater teachers, college professors, and industry professionals who shared lessons, strategies, and structures found to be successful. Dr. Fulcher, Assistant Superintendent of Equity, Culture and Support Services hosted The real a session on “The initial steps of our new and collaborative Equity Walk: measure of If you want to go fast, go alone, if the quality of you want to go far, go together.” Dr. Joseph Johnson, from the a classroom, National Center for Urban School school or district Transformation, hosted a session on Quality First Instruction. And Castle is how you are Park High School's Social Justice able to put your Club students led a session on “Breaking the Silence” supporting most vulnerable LGBT students, families and staff.
“
students first
The morning began with a keynote “The SweetPD17 conference and see them address from Dr. Jeff Duncan-Andrade, provided teachers, administrators succeed.” author of “Roses in the Concrete” and a and counselors with quality 21-year Oakland Public School teacher. sessions one would find at a Duncan-Andrade is no stranger regional or national conference,” to Sweetwater District staff and said Superintendent Janney. personnel. His charismatic keynote ‘The expertise is here in our own included feedback on the districts backyard, and together we can Dr. Jeff Duncan-Andrade mantra “Putting Students First”. “I share this knowledge.” believe by Putting Students First you first have to put your most vulnerable “Every policy and every practice students first,“ said Duncan-Andrade. has to be good for the kids that need “The real measure of the quality of a classroom, school or us the most. Then we are really on an equity move,” said district is how you are able to put your most vulnerable Duncan-Andrade. “Programs don’t work, people work. students first and see them succeed.”
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On your Doorstep
OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 21
OUT & ABOUT F E B R U A R Y 02 SDYS CONSERVATORYCOMMUNITY CHAMBER MUSIC RECITAL @ 7 p.m. @ Chula Vista Public Library, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. San Diego Youth Symphony students of all ability levels will perform in small groups at this free concert open to the public.
02 - 05/25 HOW TO SPREAD THE WORD OF THE PROFESSIONAL YOU @ 2 – 3:30 p.m. @ Chula Vista Public Library, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. Southwestern College School of Continuing Education offers this free, noncredit course for students with disabilities about appropriate marketing presence for employment, online websites, methods for developing professional business communications and networking. Call (619) 482-6376 for info.
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03 - 03/10 HEALTHIER LIVING DIABETES EMPOWERMENT EDUCATION PROGRAM @ 1 – 3 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Plaza, 1420 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista. Individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, family members or caregivers of someone with diabetes and Medicare beneficiaries over age 65 are welcome to attend. Call (619) 5910600 for info.
06 - 03/27 STARTING SPANISH SUPERSTARS @ 9 - 11:50 a.m. at Salt Creek Recreation Center, 2710 Otay Lakes Road. Designed to provide stimulating and enjoyable experiences for children, the preschool-type program teaches letters, numbers, colors, shapes and much more in Spanish. Fee is $94 for Chula Vista residents and $118 for non-residents.
05 SUPERBOWL @ 3:30 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Pub, 1420 E. Palomar Street in Chula Vista.
07 CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP @ 2:30 – 4 p.m. @ Paradise Village Library, 2nd Floor, 2700 East 4th Street in National City. The Southern Caregiver Resource Center offers professionally facilitated support groups for family caregivers the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. These groups are free, ongoing and registration is not required. For more locations and information, visit caregivercenter.org.
10-12 USED BOOK SALE @ 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Civic Center Public Library, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. The Friends of the Chula Vista Public Library will be hosting their bi-monthly used book sale in the lobby of the Civic Center Library. The hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Best prices on books, videos and more. Most are 10 cents to $1.00.
11 INAUGURAL STATE OF THE SWEETWATER UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT @ 10 a.m. noon. @ Montgomery High School, 3250 Palm Ave in San Diego.
11 A VALENTINE’S TEA FOR PRINCESS AND ME! Hosted by Chula Vista Ballet @ 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. @ Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy, 870 Jetty Lane in Chula Vista. Ticket costs $15. For more info, please contact (619) 5851133, chulavistaballet@ gmail.com or visit www. chulavistaballet.org.
OUT & ABOUT
Calendar
JANUARY 14
25
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS @ 9 a.m. – 2
LOVE YOUR HEART DAY @ 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. The County of San Diego and its partners will provide free blood pressure screenings at select sites. The goal of Love Your Heart is to activate residents to “know their numbers” and take charge of their own heart health. For more information, visit loveyourheartsd.org.
p.m. @ Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, 2800 Olympic Parkway in Chula Vista. Celebrate the new ownership of the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center (CVTC) and the athletes who train there. The public event will include a 5k Fun Run throughout the CVTC campus, a ceremony and free festival. Fun Run entry fee is $25. Visit www.chulavistaca.gov/ specialevents for more info.
15
25
PRESIDENT'S DAY
LOVE YOUR HEART @
21 RESILIENCE FILM SCREENING & COMMUNITY DISCUSSION 3 p.m. @ Chula Vista High School Performing Arts Center. Join parents, educators, community leaders, teens and resource providers to explore new research behind the long-term health impacts of traumatic childhood experience and how we can help youth thrive to become resilient adults. Visit SDFoundation.org/ Resilience-Film for more info.
12 -3 p.m. @ Otay Ranch Town Center at Eastlake Parkway and Olympic Parkway. Receive a free blood pressure screening, Zumba classes, ceviche samples and possibly even a prize. Visit www. otayranchtowncenter.com for more info.
25 OPEN HOUSE @ 1 – 4 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Plaza, 1420 E. Palomar, Street in Chula Vista. Learn about St. Paul’s Plaza’s services and special promotions.
SAVE THE DATE 03/09 THE TASTE OF THIRD
Stroll the Village tasting petite portions from a variety of eateries along Third Avenue. Taste the best of what Chula Vista's Original Neighborhood has to offer. 03/11 LAS PRIMERAS GALA
@ 5:30 – 11 p.m. @ San Diego Country Club, 88 L Street in Chula Vista. An all-volunteer group of women dedicated to the legacy of compassionate giving host a Saturday Night Fever gala. $150 per person. Visit www. lasprimeras.org for more info.
03/25 EASTER EGGSTRAGANZA
@ 8:30 a.m. Classic Service or 10:30 a.m. Family Service @ Concordia Church and School, 1695 Discovery Falls Drive in Chula Vista. For more information on this free community event, visit concordiachurch.com.
EASTLAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION every Monday @ Eastlake Tavern & Bowl, Eastlake; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; www. ebanetworking.com.
03/13 & 03/20 PROMOTORES ACADEMY
@ 8:30 – 4:30 p.m. @ Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation, 404 Euclid Avenue in San Diego. Help families live healthier lives by understanding the role of promotores, community needs and resources, presentation skills, advocacy, health basics and much more. Call (619) 832-5834 or email PromotoresTraining@ gmail.com.
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PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
OU R H OM E TOW NMAG. CO M 23
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
AA Assault Pest Control
AA Assault Termite and Pest Control is a family-owned business species. If they locate a food source in your home, they serving the Southern California area for 20 years. With a become unwelcomed guests. Using a spraying insect killer motto of “We kill what’s bugging you,” you know they mean or bait sticks will lessen your problem in the short term, but business. As a California state licensed, bonded and insured pest keep in mind this is like using a ball ping hammer to drive control specialist, the job will get done right the first time. They a steel stake into the ground. The most successful treatments guarantee a termite-free home up to five years depending on build an invisible barrier around your home using odorless, your budget, and up to one year with rodent and pest control family and pet safe chemicals. Once the ants walk through service. “Rodents and pests are experts at avoiding detection. the chemical barrier, they deliver the chemical to the colony, Just because you don’t see eliminate the colony and them does not mean they don’t most importantly the queens. exist,” states Vincent, owner Like all animals, rodents and and operator of AA Assault. He insects, they want to survive. continues by noting that most With the recent rain these Using a spraying insect killer or bait homeowners don’t address pests seek higher dry ground sticks will lessen your problem in the these problems until they like your home. Keep an eye short term, but keep in mind this is become such a nuisance that out for small droppings in like using a ball ping hammer to drive they’re unbearable. At this your garage and what seem a steel stake into the ground. point the problem is far worse like small piles of sand near and costlier to resolve than if it wood. These are true signs had been taken care of earlier. you have unwelcomed According to the National Pest visitors. Management Association, termites cause an estimated $5 billion in damage each year. If you have any questions or concerns about a pest infestation, contact a trusted professional like AA Assault Termite and Rodents and pests can enter your home through the smallest Pest Control. If you are thinking about renting your home, cracks and wood rot. Once inside your home they nest and moving and remodeling it’s a good idea to have your home reproduce. A single colony with multiple egg-laying queens inspected. AA Assault also works with realtors, commercial can grow to millions, and, if not addressed, can grow into a super and residential property owners. For more information call colony. Ants and termites are of the same genus and of similar (619) 475-3768 or visit www.assaultpestcontrol.com.
24 O U R HOMETOWN • F EBRUA R Y 2 0 17
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OU R H OM E TOW N MAG. CO M 25
Bringing the Arts to Chula Vista
Chula Vista’s Cultural Arts Commission will begin 2017 with a renewed sense of purpose and drive toward promoting and expanding the rich cultural landscape across Chula Vista. Bringing cultural arts to the forefront is not only an essential part of Chula Vista’s economic growth, but supporting and growing arts and culture encourages the innovation, exploration and expression that are the ingredients of a thriving, diverse and vibrant community. The City has a nine-member Cultural Arts Commission (CAC) that serves to encourage, endorse, facilitate and promote our growing cultural arts scene and creative assets. Music, dance, theatre, visual arts, poetry and other disciplines of the arts give voice to the hopes, dreams and values of our community. The CAC brings together artists, educators and professionals with experience and a passion for the arts to encourage civic engagement and deepen our connections to each other. Interested residents may find more information at http://bit. ly/2jkMB4l or by contacting the Chula Vista City Clerk’s Office at (619) 691-5041. On September 13, 2016, the City Council further demonstrated its commitment to growing cultural arts in Chula Vista through the adoption of a Cultural Arts Master Plan. The Cultural Arts Master Plan (CAMP) was created as a dynamic resource to celebrate and embrace Chula Vista’s unique historical narrative. The CAMP provides guidance through strategies and initiatives and promotes a renewed purpose for cultural arts citywide. The City is actively partnering with organizations like Southwestern College, Sweetwater Union High School District, Chula Vista Elementary School District and a variety 26 O U R HOMETOWN • F EBRU A R Y 2 0 17
of local non-profit groups and associations to implement the goals of the CAMP. Chula Vista’s traditional cultural arts programs and activities will continue to grow and several new initiatives will be pursued. The City invites residents to take part in programs like the McCandliss Arts Awards, the annual Performing and Visual Arts Grant program, and community events like HarborFest, which brings thousands of people from across the county to the annual summer festival on the Chula Vista Bayfront featuring art, music, water activities and more.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE UPCOMING EVENTS: • Taste of Third, March 9 • Go Green, Go Clean, Go Bike, April 8 • LakeFest, May 6 • Third Avenue Amps and Ales, May 13 • Viva Música, May 20 • Lemon Festival, August 6 • HarborFest, August 19 • Holiday in The Village and The Starlight Parade, December 2
To find out more about the cultural arts scene flourishing in Chula Vista, or for information on how you can participate in cultural arts programs and events, please contact cvarts@chulavistaca.gov or Lynnette Tessitore, Cultural Arts Manager, at (619) 409-5465. You can also find the arts on social media @chulavistaarts #cvarts #chulavistaarts #thinkchulavista.