Our Hometown Chula Vista - May 2019

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MAY 2019

E D U C AT I O N A D VO C AT E : M I C H A E L B R U D E R

IN THIS ISSUE 04 BRAVO Announcements

EDITOR'S LETTER This month we spotlight the Chula Vista Champions, as recognized by the City of Chula Vista. Children and adults, individuals and groups not only performed outstanding

06 NEWS On your Doorstep

acts throughout the year, but they also

MAY 2019

demonstrated outstanding qualities within themselves. From athletic achievements to philanthropic efforts, from exceptional teaching to effective advocacy, the feats of

14 SCHOOL NEWS 18 FEATURE City of Champions

individuals young and old contribute to the quality of life in Chula Vista. How awesome to know that these people are part of Chula Vista!

What’s more, just think of everyone who has accomplished something they’re proud of, or done something to benefit the community, who isn’t represented as a Chula Vista Champion.

I bet that you can think of something that you’ve accomplished, and/or something a

22 ON TOPIC Dear Mom

friend or relative has done that made you proud or benefited the city in some way.

In today’s world, a lot of “bad” happens. But I am certain that even more “good” happens.

When you begin to doubt this, remember the

25 CALENDAR Out & About

champion within you and the champions around you.

“To be a champion requires more than simply being a strong player; one has to be a strong

26 EDUCATION ADVOCATES Michael Bruder

human being as well.”

- Anatoly Karpov, Russian chess grandmaster and former world champion

—AMBER WEBER, Editor O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 3

BRAVO

/ Great things happening in our community SEND US YOUR GOOD NEWS!

Email editor@ourhometownmag.com prior to the 15th 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

MELISSA MONROY Design

ARIANNA PINTADO Contributor

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com.

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS: Amber Weber at Editor@OurHometownMag.com.

VISIT US ONLINE AT: www.OurHometownMag.com.

Copyright 2019. 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.

› To the CITY OF CHULA VISTA in recognition of its continued commitment to building a smarter and more sustainable city for its citizens. The City of Chula Vista proclaimed the week of April 15, 2019, as Smart Cities Week, which coincided with the arrival of the Smart Cities Week conference in San Diego, held April 15 - 17. The event, hosted by the Smart Cities Council, is the West Coast’s premier gathering of smart cities' changemakers. The conference moved to the San Diego region after previously being held in Silicon Valley.

Chula Vista was featured prominently in this year’s event. Mayor Mary Casillas Salas participated in a Mayoral Roundtable with other regional leaders, and Assistant City Manager Maria Kachadoorian and Chief Sustainability Officer Dennis Gakunga offered their expertise in several sessions.

Chula Vista was showcased during a tour of the city’s police department and the Drone as First Responder program, a ground-breaking project with the San Diego Integrated Pilot Program and the Federal Aviation Administration. Conference attendees had an opportunity to visit the police department’s drone control center to see first-hand how drones are providing critical, real-time data for first responders.

“The City of Chula Vista is thrilled to have such a prominent role in Smart Cities Week,” said Chula Vista Mayor Mary Casillas Salas. “This is an incredible opportunity to showcase Chula Vista’s innovative achievements to representatives from other smart cities around the United States—and the world.”

For more information on Chula Vista’s smart city strategy, visit chulavistaca.gov/smartcity.

› To CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATES (CDA), which was granted additional funding from the California Department of Education to enroll 524 children of low-income working parents who have been waiting for child care services, but did not qualify to receive services through the CalWORKs child care funding. Affordable child care is essential for the financial stability of low-income families and the healthy development of their children.

“I waited over a year for child care services. The services that I am receiving from CDA have been a tremendous help. I was paying over $10,000 a year for child care for my two granddaughters, said a guardian parent in CDA’s program. “It was difficult to make ends meet, especially when I am the only one financially supporting them.”

CDA is a community based, non-profit organization that has been providing child care and development services throughout San Diego County since 1974.

Today, CDA provides child care services to more than 8,190 children in collaboration with 1,800 child care providers. › To the large group of people and organizations who made the first CHULA VISTA BOOMERS & SENIORS EXPO on March 19 such a success. The greatest “thanks” go to all those who attended--the event was for you and all about you. Congratulations to Judi Reber, the winner of the grand prize--a 50-inch TV. The City of Chula Vista through the Recreation Department and the staff at Norman Park Senior Center’s support were vital to this effort.

Forty sponsors and vendors provided a great service to seniors. Major thanks to Westmont at San Miguel Ranch, Alignment Health Plan, Paradise Village, Kaiser Permanente, ClearCaptions, San Ysidro Health Center, North Island Credit Union, Windsor Gardens Convalescent Center of San Diego, Golden Hill Subacute and Rehab Center, and Bridlewood Insurance Services. Our Hometown Magazine has also been generous in their support, and we say a big “thank you” to all the staff.

Now preparations begin for next year. Stay tuned for more information and entertainment!

› To the winners of this year’s SWEETWATER AUTHORITY HIGH SCHOOL PHOTO CONTEST! Founded in 2009, the contest welcomes all high school students who live or attend school in Sweetwater Authority's service area to submit their photos and a short essay on the importance of water as an essential resource. More than 85 students entered this year’s photo contest, which was won by Kassandra Vogel of Chula Vista High School in the color photography category and

by Kristine Leonor of Bonita Vista High School in the black-and-white category.

O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 5

NEWS

/ On your Doorstep

New Dog Park Proposed to Honor Police and Military K9s

Dogs are members of our families and protect our homes. They help solve crimes and catch criminals with the police. They serve with us in the military to protect our freedoms.

Councilmember John McCann, an Iraq War veteran, would like to recognize police and military K9 dogs by dedicating a new dog park. “I want to celebrate and commemorate our best friends, the canines that do so much by serving with our police and military,” he said.

McCann’s proposal would build a family-friendly, 1.5-acre dog park in one of Chula Vista’s most popular parks, Rohr Park, which spans 60 acres in the heart of Bonita. Many residents bring their dogs to walk the pathways and jogging trails year round at Rohr Park and the Chula Vista Golf Course. But one thing has been missing in the over-50-year-old park: there is no place to let dogs off the leash to run. In surveys and at many public forums, citizens have expressed their desire to have an off-leash area for their dogs to run.

Dog owners and their pets will enjoy a fully secured 1.5-acre fenced area which is long enough to engage in “throw and fetch” activities. In order to promote owner and animal safety, the naturally turfed area will be divided into two sections—one for small dog breeds and the other for large dog breeds. This will create a safe and secure environment for owners to let their dogs off their leash without running the risk of startling or endangering others.

For over a year McCann has worked with City staff and the public.

After reviewing five sites, the westernmost point of Rohr Park near Parking Lot A has been determined to be an optimal location.

Mature trees provide partial and natural shade, a walking/jogging trail is located next to the dog park, and there is easy access to parking with ADA accessibility. The City will maintain the dog park, but pet owners will be responsible for picking up after their dogs. The City will also access nearby plumbing in order to install a water fountain for dogs at the playground location.

The City of Chula Vista has been working diligently to complete the Rohr Park Dog Park Proposal, which is scheduled to go before City Council on May 7, 2019. Community members are invited to show their support at the 5:00 p.m. meeting. Once approved, design and construction will be immediately scheduled. The park will be dedicated to police, military and service dogs to honor their contribution for their hard work and discipline.

If you have any recommendations, suggestions or comments that you would like to share, please contact jmccann@chulavistaca.gov.

Avoid Tech Support Scams Aimed at Seniors

By District Attorney Summer Stephan

As your District Attorney (DA), I’m committed to increasing communication and accessibility between the DA’s Office and you, the community.

One way I can do this is to provide consumer tips on public safety matters.

It’s normal to be concerned about computer safety and guarding against a virus or spyware.

But don’t trust those pop-up ads that entice you to doubt your security. One of the latest ways senior citizens are being scammed is through phony tech support popup ads that scare computer users into thinking their computer has a virus. Preying on security concerns, fraudsters trick victims into providing remote access to their computers, making them believe that the so-called “technical support” will plug gaps in security.

The ad often looks like it is coming from a legitimate technology company such as Microsoft, since the ad uses their logo. Although anyone can fall prey to this trick, senior citizens tend to be the most vulnerable in believing their computer is affected, which leads them to provide credit card information to the hacker or allows what they think is anti-virus software, but is really spyware, to be placed onto their computer.

This scam can go down a number of paths, but each ends with significant financial loss.

For example: • The scammer strikes every so often, making you think your computer has a new virus that you must pay to have removed each time.

• The credit card or banking information you provided to stop the virus may have unauthorized use.

• Your computer may get infected with spyware, allowing access to personal and financial records.

On your Doorstep

Preying on security concerns, fraudsters trick victims into providing remote access to their computers, making them believe that the so-called “technical support” will plug gaps in security.

Here’s what you need to know when dealing with computer safety and tech support: • Do not call phone numbers on pop-up ads about computer security.

• The best way to keep your computer safe from viruses is to update its security software.

• If you have concerns about the security settings or viruses on your computer, take the computer to a reputable brick-and-mortar computer repair business.

•If you get a pop-up ad that takes up your screen, has no way to close and suggests you click on it as the only way to rid the screen of the intrusion, take the computer to a professional repair shop.

Don’t click, call or answer if: • You get a phone call you didn’t expect saying there is a problem with your computer.

• You get a message that a Russian spammer attacked your system and you need to pay to protect your banking information.

• You are asked to make payment in Bitcoin or wire transfer; it is a scam.

Just last year, the Federal Trade Commission received more than 142,000 complaints involving computer scams. The DA’s Consumer Protection Unit is comprised of deputy district attorneys, investigators and paralegals dedicated to protecting consumers and law abiding businesses from fraudulent or unfair business practices. To report a consumer complaint, please call (619) 531-3507 or email consumer@sdcda.org.

District Attorney Summer Stephan has dedicated nearly 30 years to serving justice and victims of crime as prosecutor. She is a national leader in fighting sex crimes and human trafficking, and in creating smart and fair criminal justice solutions and restorative justice practices that treat the underlying causes of addiction and mental illness and that keep young people from being incarcerated.

O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 7

On your Doorstep

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On your Doorstep

Kiwanis International Annual Golf Challenge Benefits Children

The 38th annual charity golf tournament, “Tee Off for Kids,” is about to take place. Your help is needed as a player, sponsor or both! 100% of all proceeds will go to the Kiwanis Foundation of Bonita to benefit local children.

The event will be held on Friday, June 21 at Eastlake Country Club, 2375 Clubhouse Drive in Chula Vista, with plenty of food, music and fun.

Shotgun start is at 1 p.m. Early bird entry is $100, and lunch, range balls and dinner are included.

The top three winners will receive automatic entry to the Randy Jones Golf Tournament; plus, there will be prizes for longest drive, four closest to the pin, putting contest, drawings, auctions and more.

New this year is an after-party with live music and dancing for $20 per guest.

Your contribution will support charities and programs such as Special Olympics and Sports for Exceptional Athletes, Stand Up for Kids, Rady Children’s Hospital, Miracle Mile of Quarters, Junior Key Clubs, youth leadership and citizenship awards, annual scholarships for deserving young adults, annual holiday food baskets, wounded warriors and military families, Boy Scouts of America, and more.

Without your support and participation, many needs go by the wayside. Banding together and having some fun is a great way to help.

With partnership from Eastlake Golf, All State Insurance, AMR Ambulance Service, Glen Abbey Memorial Park and Mortuary, Bonita Wellness, San Diego and Premier Pest Control, participating in the tournament can influence children’s lives.

Do you have a local business or a group of friends who want to make a difference and have fun while doing it? If so, join with community leaders in this awesome event. Bring your foursome and put your skills to the test against some of Bonita and Chula Vista’s best in this four-person scramble tournament. Email TeeOffForKids@gmail.com or call Mark Cortez at (619) 250-7275 for more information.

O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 9

On your Doorstep

Real Estate Update: Renovation Loans

Success for EastLake Middle and High Students at the SoCal Cyber Cup

Courtesy of Minnie Rzeslawski, ReMax 24k

The real estate market is in a sweet spot. Interest rates have ticked down to low fours, which is the lowest level in about one year.

Lender Sergio Haros from Finance of America says, "Financial indicators we follow look to be more of the same over the next month with movement up and down throughout the month, but generally speaking rates will be similar 30 days from now as they are today. Always keep in mind, the market is fickle; one natural disaster or international event changes things immediately."

With this in mind, here’s a loan program available that you may have not heard much about: the renovation loan.

A renovation loan allows a person to borrow money for the home purchase as well as any improvements on the home using only one loan.

Renovation loans are offered by Fannie Mae through its HomeStyle Renovation program, and by FHA through its 203(k) program. The loan allows home buyers to purchase a home that needs improvements, such as a fixer upper that would not qualify under regular FNMA or FHA standards.

“A renovation

loan is the perfect loan for a firsttime buyer with a budget that wants to make a house their home.”

A renovation loan makes it possible for a buyer to turn a property into a home by taking that property off the market and making it a valuable part of the community again.

Some key points are that the buyer has one loan for the home purchase and the money for the construction/improvements. Also, the buyer can escrow up to six months of mortgage payments on the home depending upon scope of work, and projects must be completed within six months; money is in an escrow account during this time and released upon request.

The buyer must be an owner/occupant for the home that the loan is for, doesn't need perfect credit (but a better credit score will help lock in a better interest rate), can borrow up to 110% of the home’s projected value after improvements under the FHA 203(k) loan, and can take out this loan with as little as 3% down.

Minnie Rzeslawski, a realtor at RE/MAX 24K, says, “A renovation loan is the perfect loan for a first-time buyer with a budget that wants to make a house their home.”

To learn more about this loan, reach out to your trusted lender. This program may open doors for you!

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The Cybersecurity effort is alive and well in EastLake Schools. In fact, at the 10th Annual SoCal Cyber Cup on February 16, the EastLake High School Coding Club finished in 3rd place, and the EastLake Middle School Cybersecurity Club finished in 5th place. The teams brought home a cash prize of $3,500 and $2,500 respectively. The middle school club will celebrate with a trip to Disneyland, and the high school team will invest their winnings in the development of an online game they are creating.

Both teams have three things in common: a great teacher to help them succeed, students that have novice to advanced coding experience, and the ability to problem solve and work together as a team. Some of the students have been doing this for a while, and others just joined the club this year.

“We are excited that we came home with 3rd place, especially since our coding club is new. It only started last year,” mentioned Dalton Jaide, a senior looking to attend UC Irvine in the fall.

The misconception is that students have to be super smart or have intense knowledge of coding.

The reality is that teams help each other learn as they problem solve together. Some of those who competed are in their first year of computer science class.

The team approach of solving cybersecurity problems mimics what the students will find in real world work environments—team members that collaborate to utilize the various skills and knowledge to solve a problem.

On your Doorstep

EastLake High School Coding Club (right): Teacher Patricia Chan, Christine Baun, Austin Jang, Lilly Schaefer, Yoshiaki Yamamato, JP Zendeis, Richelle Rimando, Jesus-Albert Marquez and Spenser Doyle.

EastLake Middle School Cybersecurity Club (below): Makayla Velliquette, Teacher Tara Taylor, Dion Nguyen, Martin Corona, Alan Ramirez, Steve Doyle, Bottom Row: Aiden McCalicher, Joseph Doyle, Jason Nguyen, Gabriel Papaioanu.

This may be fun and games now, but the work and skills these students are developing are critically important for the safety, security and the way we enjoy our lives in the future. “We need students with computational skills in all fields so collectively we can meet the challenges of tomorrow,” stated Janet Francis, Executive Director at the EastLake Educational Foundation.

or the second consecutive year, the Chula Vista Elementary School District has been honored with a Best Communities for Music Education designation from the NAMM Foundation.

CVESD is the only school district in San Diego County and one of the few repeat winners.

The workforce is looking for kids with these skills, and they will have an advantage over those who do not.

According to National Defense Industrial Association, cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing professions on the planet generating more than a $1.5 billion impact on the local San Diego economy alone.

Eastlake Middle and EastLake High School both offer coding classes, a component of cybersecurity.

Ms. Patricia Chen, a teacher and club advisor at EastLake High School said, “Coding helps develop math skills. It’s very visual, and kids become better problem solvers and learn how to communicate with their peers.”

The entry level course in high school is AP Computer Science Principles and does not require any prior coding experience--and the course is aligned with UCSD requirements. Students can take AP Computer Science Principals first, and the following year take AP Computer Science Applications.

Students interested in developing their computation skills have many ways to do so at EastLake Schools. For more information, contact your school or sign up to receive emails at www.eefkids.org.

Chula Vista Elementary School District for Outstanding Support of Music Education Enriching the Lives of Children and Advancing Student Achievement

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On your Doorstep

SOUTH BAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

PRESENTS "GREEN SEA TURTLES IN SAN DIEGO BAY"

By Harry Orgovan, President of the South Bay Historical Society

Today in San Diego Bay we have a population of 70 to 100 Eastern Pacific green sea turtles, also known as black turtles because of their dark carapaces. Researchers have studied the green sea turtles in San Diego Bay going back to 1976 when Margie Stinson, currently a professor of marine biology at Southwestern College in Chula Vista, was given a tip by Eddie McEwen.

McEwen, skipper of the natural history tour vessel Pacific Queen, said that green sea turtles were by the warm water outflow of the power plant. The turtles are a cold blooded reptile, and these warm waters were like a Jacuzzi for them. Stinson developed a personal interest in the sea turtles, which led to her master's thesis project. As Stinson continued her observations, she began to understand that some of the turtles were staying year-round and burrowing into the mud.

Peter and Donna Dutton began to expand on Stinson's research during the 1980s. Later in 1995 Peter Dutton joined the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Southwest Fisheries Science Center. Dutton now heads the Marine Turtle Genetics Program for NOAA. The program uses genetics along with radio transmitters, utilizing satellite telemetry, to track turtle movements from bays, lagoons and into the ocean. Years of research have provided insights into turtle behavior. In San Diego Bay, the turtles periodically leave the bay on a breeding migration to the beaches where they were born. Their destination is south, below the southern tip of Baja California, on the beaches of the Revillagigedo or Tres Marias islands.

The turtles can travel these long distances using their keen sense of smell while tracking the sun.

They also sense magnetic waves surrounding the earth using crystals in the lobes of their brain and a crystal component in their vision.

Mating takes place in the waters just off their nesting beaches, and research suggests females will mate with multiple males. They choose a soft, sandy beach to lay three to five batches, always with two weeks between each batch.

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The batches consist of 80 to 120 eggs. As the eggs incubate for nine weeks, the temperature determines either a male or a female turtle. During the middle third of the incubation period, if a turtle egg’s temperature is 19° C (83.6° F) or higher it will result in a female turtle. Even one degree lower will produce a male turtle.

The round trip returning to San Diego Bay could take nine months to a year.

Once the turtles hatch, they will hopefully make it to the ocean where they will spend the next four days paddling 24 hours a day. As the nutrition from their embryonic sack becomes empty, they stop paddling. The newborn turtles float in the ocean current to rest and eat in order to gain strength. The turtles will spend three to five years in the ocean. Then they will move near shore, to coastal habitats such as lagoons or bays, like San Diego Bay, to take up long-term residence. Since the removal of the South Bay Power Plant in 2013, the turtles are more spread out in the bay, but still present.

FUN FACTS: • The turtles can be seen sticking their head out of the water to breathe and can hold their breath between ten minutes and two hours.

• Their main food as adults is eel grass, mostly found in the southern part of San Diego Bay. • The average life span of the turtles is believed to be 80+ years.

• Many of the turtles in San Diego Bay weigh over 300 lbs.

One turtle, given the name Wrinklebutt, weighs 550 lbs.

To learn more, visit the Chula Vista Heritage Museum located inside the Chula Vista Public Library at 365 F Street or visit chulavistaheritagemuseum.org.

On your Doorstep

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O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 13

SCHOOL

/ News

Five Sweetwater District Teachers of the Year Move on to San Diego County Competition

This September, five Sweetwater District Teachers of the Year will compete with nearly 37 other San Diego County teachers at the Annual Cox Presents: A Salute to Teachers Gala. Out of the 42 total teachers, only five will move forward to be named San Diego County Teacher of the Year.

The Salute to Teachers Gala is an Academy Awards-style ceremony that will be held at Balboa Theatre downtown and is broadcast live on local cable TV.

The 2019 Sweetwater District Teachers of the Year are:

JULIO AVASAN Engineering and math teacher (Olympian High School)

CHERYL BAYLEY Biology, anatomy and physiology, AP environmental science teacher (Eastlake High School)

BRIAN DOUGHERTY Science teacher (Bonita Vista Middle School)

DON DUMAS AP U.S. history teacher (Bonita Vista High School)

ROBERT MANROE Biology teacher (Castle Park High School)

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The finalists were selected by their schools to represent the Sweetwater Union High School District at the county level based on student achievement, professional development and community involvement, teaching philosophy, knowledge of current issues in education, promotion and development of the teaching profession, accountability and ability to serve as ambassadors of education.

For educator Julio Avasan, every student in his classroom not only learns the principles of engineering, but also passion, compassion, appreciation, humility and seeing life with a positive attitude. “From the very first day when each of my students enters my classroom, I open my heart to them,” said Avasan. “They become part of my world, and I get to witness their journey to success.”

Cheryl Bayley says her personal goal is to provide a classroom experience that will rival or exceed other experiences outside of the public school system. In Bayley’s third year of teaching science courses, she increased numbers in anatomy and offered AP environmental science for the first time last year. “I value students and the power of their voice,”

said Bayley. “Through this power, I ignite their passion for science.”

“Having a good relationship with your students and being committed to learning in whatever form it may take are what make a successful teacher,” said Brian Dougherty.

“I have high expectations for my students, but they are not overwhelmed by them.” As a science teacher, Dougherty wants science to come alive for his students and to inspire them to have an appreciation of the natural world.

For Don Dumas, to be a student in his class is to be comfortable as his or her authentic self. “Students in my class know that they can take academic and intellectual risks without fear of ridicule or the ‘wrong’ answer,” said Dumas.

He values the knowledge and experiences that students bring to class, and the environment is one in which everyone in the room is respected and free to contribute to the learning of everyone else.

Robert Manroe says his class is a community. He believes the inclusive nature of his teaching style encourages students to join in the experience. Manroe also says he does not rely on students’ skill sets when they enter his room. “If they lack a skill, I will teach them,” said Manroe. “Whether that is a language, graphing, organization or technology, the solution is the same: Let me show you how to do this.”

The Annual “Cox Presents: A Salute to Teachers,” will be televised live from the Balboa Theatre on September 7, 2019, in the evening. Tune in or purchase tickets to see if one of our outstanding Sweetwater District teachers will be named San Diego County Teacher of the Year!

School News

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School News

 Encore: Chula Vista Makes List of ‘BEST COMMUNITIES FOR MUSIC EDUCATION’

For the second consecutive year, the Chula Vista Elementary School District has been honored with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from the NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education.

The Best Communities for Music Education honor is bestowed upon school districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students. To qualify for the Best Communities designation, CVESD answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community musicmaking programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

“We are very proud of the efforts that our arts partners, community leaders, staff and Board of Education have made to ensure music education is supported throughout our District,” said CVESD Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D. “This award is a shared achievement, involving numerous arts organizations, students, and families. We couldn’t be prouder. Winning this two years in a row is no accident.”

In 2010, CVESD collaborated with the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory (SDYS) to establish an after-school music program in two high-economic need elementary schools. Called the “Community Opus Project,” the program was inspired by Venezuela’s El Sistema music education initiative and was an immediate hit in the pilot schools. Six more campuses followed with Opus programs. By 2014-15, the Board of Education announced the District would hire full-time arts instructors and provide visual and performing arts (VAPA) instruction during the school day for all students.

Today, nearly 90 VAPA teachers provide programs in music, dance, theater, and media/visual arts. The investment in VAPA was among the services funded by the District’s Local Control and Accountability Plan.

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

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Chula Vista’s arts initiative has attracted a host of high-profile partners, such as the VH1 Save the Music Foundation and Grammy Award-winning band Switchfoot, among others.

Recognition has flowed Chula Vista’s way as well, with honors from the prestigious Yale School of Music. In addition, in 2016, the Board was recognized by the California School Boards Association (CSBA) with a Golden Bell Award for excellence in VAPA. Most recently, Guitars in the Classroom has helped support music teachers in utilizing ukuleles for students with special needs. A grant from the Rotary Club of Chula Vista Eastlake will provide additional professional development and training to help grow Guitars in the Classroom in CVESD. “It is because of partners like Rotary, like NAMM Foundation, like Guitars in the Classroom, that we have been able to really build our programs and foster our growth,” said Lauren Shelton, the District’s Coordinator for VAPA. “We can’t do it without our partnerships…It makes for a deeper impact when we know the community is rallying for us, helping us serve and meet our students’ needs and interests.”

The Best Communities for Music Education award, the latest in a string of honors for CVESD, recognizes that Chula Vista schools are leading the way with learning opportunities as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act, which recommends music and the arts as important elements of a well-rounded education for all children. The legislation guides implementation in states and replaces the No Child Left Behind Act.

That’s music to the ears of Dr. Escobedo. He said music spurs students’ innovation and creativity. “When you make the arts a priority, you help transform students—and the entire community,” Dr. Escobedo said.

For more information about the NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.

School News

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INDIVIDUALS

CARLOS ALDRETE who, at age 13, is one of the youngest twotime Triple Crown triathletes in Chula Vista. He is also being recognized for creating the Athletes 4 Health non-profit that has raised thousands of dollars for children fighting childhood cancer.

Coretta Scott King was quoted as saying, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”

JOSHUA ALO who received first place in the Heritage Elementary fifth grade speech contest and will be representing the school at the district competition. He also obtained a perfect score in the English language California standards-based assessment.

May’s feature story is a perfect example of how Chula Vista celebrates some of our wonderful members.

DARRYL ANUNCIADO for his leadership in the creation of Action Drone Inc. that creates industrial drones and is at the forefront of drone technology.

The City of Chula Vista proudly recognized its champions on Saturday, March 9 at the Chula Vista Champions Celebration held at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center. Champions were recognized for achievements at the local, national or international level in academics, sports, community service, cultural arts and more.

All ages were celebrated as individuals, groups and teams who live, work or play in Chula Vista were honored. Co-emcees were JC Caseltine, a senior at Hilltop High School, and Michael Monaco, publisher of Our Hometown Magazine.

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KATE ANCHONDO for her advocacy and passion for climate action. She organized the first Youth Climate Justice Strike in Chula Vista on March 15.

MARGARET BAKER for volunteering her time to help the people of Chula Vista via policy writing, community organizing and event planning.

SHAE-LIN CARR for her philanthropic efforts with various Chula Vista organizations including Glenner Town Square, where she serves as volunteer choir director to Alzeheimer's and dementia-related participants.

JAKE CARREON who is a U.S. Junior Nationals bronze medalist winner in Open Division Volleyball.

TOM CLAVELL for helping to build bridges between nonprofit agencies to help the homeless, the food insecure and those facing alcohol and drug addiction as Executive Director of Southbay Pioneers.

BRETT DAVIS who won the 2019 AAU Natural Mr. Universe title.

MIKE FILSON for his success with the pool drowning prevention program, WARN. Since the 2011 implementation of WARN, there have been no fatal drownings of young children in Chula Vista. Captain Filson also won the nationwide Nicholas Rosecrans award for his drowning prevention efforts.

EDDIE FLORES for achieving the highest designation of "Fellow member" by the Institute of Transportation Engineers.

ALYSSA GARCIA for being ranked among the top ten best softball players in the nation for the past four years and has signed a letter of intent to play softball at UCLA next year.

PAOLA GARCIA who is a Metro league volleyball champion. She has been recruited to play Division 1 volleyball at University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

VALENTINA GRANADOS for working with students to resolve conflict and maintain harmony at Heritage Elementary as part of the Peace Patrol. She also earned a perfect score on the English language California standards-based assessment as a third grade student.

ROBERTO GRATIANNE for his philanthropic efforts that have helped the Chula Vista community for more than 25 years.

ERICK IBARRA who was Soccer Player of the Year for the Chula Vista Elementary School District in the 2018 Junior Co-Ed Division.

JAZMYNE JACKSON for her philanthropic efforts including partnering with Father Joe's Village to create homeless care packages. Jazmyne also participated in the Young Legislator Program and was recognized by the California Legislative Black Caucus.

C H U L A V I STA C H A M PIONS

GROUPS

DAVID JOCIS for unselfishly donating his personal vehicle to help a Chula Vista family in need. By donating his vehicle, he helped the family put their life back together after a tragedy.

ANGELA KAREM who is among five inaugural Sanford Teacher Award recipients who have demonstrated a commitment to creating inspirational and harmonious classrooms that support student development and achievement.

COURTNEY-AN LE for being a 2019 National Merit Finalist and outscoring 1.6 million students nationwide.

CALLAN LUTZ for his extraordinary success the past three years in achieving perfect scores in both English language arts and mathematics in the California standards-based assessment and for participating in the Heritage Elementary Safety Patrol.

BERNARDO MAZON for rallying for equity and inclusion on stages both locally and nationally. He also was named an Emerging Star by both the San Diego Repetory Theatre and OnStage Playhouse.

ARTURO OSORIO for overcoming adversity and achieving perfect attendance at Eastlake High School.

GUSTAVO PADILLA for volunteering to help lead the organization, We Support U, that provides cancer support services, training and promotes health in Chula Vista and the surrounding communities.

BENJAMIN PERAZA a 5th grader at Feaster Charter Elementary School who in the last five years, has received five honor roll academic excellence awards for English, five perfect attendance awards, and six student of the month awards for self control, grit and optimism.

DEANNA PERAZA a 4th grader at Feaster Charter Elementary School who in the past four years has received 11 honor roll awards in academic excellence for English, eight for academic excellence in Spanish, eight perfect attendance awards and three Presidential awards.

RACHEL PEREZ for her support of local veterans.

She has received multiple honors and recognition from the Military Order of the Purple Heart Auxilliary.

LEONARDO "LEE" SISON for being an exceptional teacher and for leading Casillas Elementary to multiple undefeated season and district championships, including the 2015 CVESD Flag Football Championships. This posthumus award was accepted by Mr. Lee Sison's family.

BENJAMIN TENNANT for obtaining a perfect score on the English language section of the California standards-based assessment as a fourth grader. He also actively participates in the Cub Scouts of America.

RICH WALKER for bringing his incredible talent to downtown Chula Vista as displayed in many abstract paintings at his gallery, Art on Third.

E=MC2 EXECUTIVE TEAM for motivating and inspiring underserved K-12 students through fun, interactive and educational STEM activites.

DANZA MEXI'CAYOTL, DIRECTED BY DR. MARIO AGUILAR for teaching and preserving the indigenous cultures of Mexico and the Southwestern United States in San Diego. The Mexi’cayotl Indio Cultural Center has a strong emphasis on teaching the traditions to youth and families, especially in some of our most critical and economically challenged communities.

CHULA VISTA COMMUNITY COLLABORATIVE for providing valuable services to the residents of Chula Vista including providing families with basic needs, referring residents to appropriate resources and creating a safe space for youth and families.

CHULA VISTA WALKS for striving to improve the health and well-being of older adults through walking, and supporting the goals of the Healthy Chula Vista Initiative as well as the World Health Organization's and AARP's Age-Friendly objectives.

MARIACHI GARIBALDI SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE for championing music and representing Chula Vista on the national and international stage.

COMMUNITY THROUGH HOPE STAFF for helping address the needs of the unsheltered and the food insecure in the City of Chula Vista. These volunteers change the narrative around those suffering from mental health, addiction and poverty.

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2 0 OUR HOME TOWN / MAY 2 0 1 9

C H U L A V I STA C H A M PIONS

PHI THETA KAPPA who were recognized nationally for their award winning research and for assisting Southwestern College with special projects.

CHULA VISTA FC for attaining the 2018 Cal South Adult State Cup Soccer Championship.

CHULA VISTA POLICE DEPARTMENT for receiving the 2018 Hermon Goldstein Award for Excellence in ProblemOriented Policing for its innovative approach to reducing domestic violence.

SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL--MUELLER CHARTER SCHOOL for increasing the number of students walking and bicycling to school and reducing the number of vehicle trips associated with school travel. The program has improved traffic safety and air quality and helps address childhood obesity.

WEST CHULA VISTA MOMS FACEBOOK GROUP for providing a safe place of mutual respect and nonjudgment where mothers can build community and support one another as they navigate the realities of motherhood.

ï‚‚ FOLLOW @ OURHOMETOWNCHULAVISTA ON FACEBOOK!

OLYMPIAN HIGH SCHOOL EAGLES WRESTLING for winning their third consecutive Metro Conference Wrestling tournament team championship. Congratulations to these Division I Champions.

REBELS SOCCER CLUB GIRLS 2001 TEAM for becoming the 2018 U.S. Youth Soccer Girls under 17 National Champions.

REBELS SOCCER CLUB BOYS 2005 TEAM for becoming the 2018 U.S. Youth Soccer Boys under 17 National Champions.

CHULA VISTA COMMUNITY MOMS FACEBOOK GROUP for connecting moms all over Chula Vista and for building a network of support for families.

REBELS SOCCER CLUB BOYS 2006 TEAM for becoming the San Diego Surf Champions, SDDA Champions and Man City Spring Champions.

REBELS SOCCER CLUB BOYS 2004 TEAM for winning first place in the SDDA league and Southern California Soccer Cup, among many other championships.

O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 21

ON TOPIC To: Sunny Romero From: Destiny Szafarski As Mother’s Day approaches (my first Mother’s Day!), I spend a little extra time wandering the aisles at the store.

What should I get you? A candle?

A massage gift certificate? That new blender you’ve been wanting? I realize with dismay that none of these gifts could reflect how much I love and value you. I am lucky to have a mom who has also always been counted as a friend and confidant, and a trusted guide in difficult times.

So this year, on my first Mother’s Day, my gift to you is this love letter of sorts, reflecting on my first few months of motherhood.

It’s 12 a.m., and I’m awake with the baby. He was just a little thirsty and wanted some cuddles. He’ll be back to sleep in a matter of minutes I’m sure, and truth be told I’m glad to steal a few private and precious moments with him. He’s back to sleep now, but I am watching and watching until I drift back to sleep.

It’s 2 a.m., and I’m awake again. Why do I feel like my son slept better as a newborn? We’re up for a diaper change and another feed, and this time I feel like he’ll never be back to sleep. I try to keep him quiet, since we all have an early day. Were you up this often with me? If you were, then I don’t know whether to say sorry or thank you.

Right now, feeling defeated by another wakeup, I think sorry is the right thing to say. Finally back to sleep.

It’s 3 a.m., and guess what? Yeah, I’m up again. This time I feel strangely rested though—a trick of the mind I’m sure. Maybe my body is adapting to life without sleep. With my refreshed mind, I can watch my boy drift back to sleep and remember that this is actually one of my favorite times of the day. In this little window of time, the middle of the night hours, it is just me and my boy, and the world is quiet.

We cuddle and rock, and I watch him 2 2 OUR HOME TOWN / MAY 2 0 1 9

Dear

Mom—

fight sleep for a little more time in my arms. Some people would say that I should sleep train him “already.” “Already,” they say, as if it were a requirement. I’ve learned, though, that there are actually very few absolute requirements to motherhood: keep baby fed, clean, safe—done. Easy, right? (haha) It’s 5 a.m., and baby is still sleeping, but I am up for the day.

You always got up before us kids when I was younger, and I used to think that it was because you’re just a morning person. Now I know, though, an early morning wake up is the key to enjoying a cup of coffee while it is still hot.

I wonder to myself if you were actually ever a morning person, or if you just adapted as a survival tactic, because who doesn’t need just 10 minutes to themselves in a day (please!)?

To: Lynn Twork From: Hailey Twork There is an amazing woman that I have in my life, and her name is Lynn Twork, or should I say the best person who roams the earth? What is my mom like? What makes her so special? These are the questions you might be asking as you read.

Well let me tell you that she is the sweetest person that I have ever met. You might have even met her before because she is that great.

She is worth more than a million friends than I could ever have. She is unique in her own way, she is there to snuggle with me when I am down, and she would probably even be there if I were all the way across the world.

Watching you through the years, I learned so much of what it means to be a mom. I learned to be patient, even when a noise or behavior is making me insane, to give praise when a good behavior is shown, to give snuggles and love when baby is sad or scared, and many more small but vital things we do as moms. When my son was born, I knew I was lucky to have had you as a mom, because I didn’t feel scared or overwhelmed by this tiny human they placed in my arms. I felt whole. I knew what to do, and I knew when I didn’t that I would have you! Thank you Mom, for loving me and showing me the way. If I am anything, it is because of you!

love always, Destiny

(your favorite 26 year old)

On that note, I know for a fact that she would try her best to make me happy and that I would instantly laugh when she gives me the funny questioned face when I am mad. The biggest thing is that my mom makes me feel like I am loved and that I could do anything I put my mind to. There is so much about my mom that I can't even name five percent of it because she is that great of a mom.

Special thanks to Our Hometown Magazine for choosing me to write about my amazing mom.

And Mom, don't ever change the way you are because you are just perfect the way you came.

Love,

Hailey

On your Doorstep

ï‚‚ FOLLOW @ OURHOMETOWNCHULAVISTA ON FACEBOOK!

O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 23

2 4 OUR HOME TOWN / MAY 2 0 1 9

OUT & ABOUT

MAY ANNUAL DEVELOPERS FORUM @ 8 – 9:30 a.m. @ Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, 140 East 12th Street in National City. Developers, contractors, realtors and homeowners are invited to attend. A light breakfast will be served. Please RSVP with Alessandra at aangelone@sweetwater. org or (619) 409-6721.

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CHAMBER MIXER @ 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Hosted

by Living Coast Discovery Center, 1000 Gunpowder Point Drive in Chula Vista.

Mix, mingle and meet future business partners. $10 for members and $20 for nonmembers. For more info, visit chulavistachamber.org.

MARINE CORPS LEAGUE SOUTHBAY DETACHMENT 1207 MEETING @ 7 – 8 p.m. @ Chula Vista Veterans Home, Building F, 700 E. Naples Court in Chula Vista. Meet former and retired veterans plus hear from a guest speaker.

Contact Commandant Jim Thomas at (619) 227-9535 with questions.

AVENUE AMPS & ALES @ 1 – 5 p.m. @ Third Avenue Village in Chula Vista. The craft beer and musical festival is for adults 21 and up, featuring craft breweries, distilleries, wineries, local bands and good eats. For more info, visit www. thirdavenuevillage.com.

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12

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS @ 6 p.m. @ Chula Vista City Hall, 276 Fourth Avenue in Chula Vista.

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COMMUNITY 5K FUN RUN @ 8 a.m. @ Chula Vista Elite Training Center, 2800 Olympic Parkway in Chula Vista. Register and get a commemorative T-shirt, swag bag, and access to fun and informative vendor booths. After the run, enjoy a $5 pancake breakfast and silent auction. Proceeds support the Police Activities League and Friends of the Chula Vista Parks and Recreation. Children 3 and under are free. For more information, visit chulavistaca.gov/funrun.

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DISCOVER OTAY VALLEY REGIONAL PARK DAY @ 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ Otay Valley Regional Park, 2155 Beyer Blvd. in San Diego.

Celebrate Kids to Parks Day with interpretive hikes, bird watching, guided bike rides, kayaking, nature touch tables, a photo contest and more! If you plan to participate in outdoor activities, RSVP by May 11 to AdventurePassportOVRP@gmail.com.

Inclement weather may cancel. For more information, please call the park at (619) 424-0463.

VIVA MUSICA @ 1 – 4 p.m. @ Memorial Park, 373 Park Way in Chula Vista. Celebrate the achievements of Opus musicians with San Diego Youth Symphony orchestras, bands and local youth performers.

This is a free event and open to the public. For more information, visit sdys.org/vivamusica.

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CHULA VISTA FILM FESTIVAL @ 5 - 8 p.m. @ Chula Vista Civic Center Library, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. The inaugural event will feature anime and animated short films by students and aspiring filmmakers.

Film submissions are accepted until April 24. For more info, visit www.FilmFreeway.com/ ChulaVistaFilmFestival.

TEDX CHULA VISTA: COMPLEXITY @ 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. @ Southwestern College, Mayan Hall, 900 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista.

Inspirational speakers, breath-taking artists, and thought-provoking leaders will share ideas worth spreading. For more information on TEDxChulaVista, visit TEDxChulaVista.com

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MEMORIAL DAY

 FOLLOW @OURHOMETOWNCHULAVISTA ON FACEBOOK! PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

SAVE THE DATE 03 — 16TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT @ San Diego Country Club in Chula Vista. Shot-gun start at 10 a.m. Registration is $500/ individual and $2,000/foursome.

Price includes green fee, cart, range balls, breakfast and lunch buffet and awards ceremony. A portion of the net proceeds will benefit the South Bay YMCA and the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce. For more info, call (619) 420-6603 or email admindesk@ chulavistachamber.org.

08 — FILM FORUM @ 1 – 4 p.m. @ Chula Vista Civic Center Library, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. You are invited to a special film screening of “JULIA BLUE” (2018.

86 Minutes. Not Rated). There will be a Q & A session with writer/ director after the screening. $5 suggested donation.

11 — PARKINSONS DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION @ 1 p.m. @ Norman Park Senior Center, 270 F Street in Chula Vista. The event will include a fun choral performance by the Tremble Clefs of San Diego County. For more info, visit www.

Support4PD.org, call (619)5650411, or email drhiggins@ support4PD.org.

06/29-08/24 — NUESTRA FRONTERA: OUR SOUTH BAY FAMILIES @ The Bonita Museum and Cultural Center, 4355 Bonita Road in Bonita. This original exhibition, curated by Barbara Zaragoza, presents a walk through 250 years of San Diego history. The exhibit will contain photographs and interactive displays that bring history to life.

Visit bonitahistoricalsociety.org to learn more.

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EDUCATIO N ADVO CATE

Michael Bruder

/ CVESD Teacher’s Impact STEAMs Ahead

Under the expert guidance of resource teacher Michael Bruder, plastic animals, colorful pompoms and tiny motors whir to life in the hands of robo-crafting elementary students who explore high-tech careers and learn to code in the Chula Vista Elementary School District’s Innovation Station.

Mr. Bruder was selected three years ago to lead the District’s development and implementation of Innovation Station – a STEAM-focused, hands-on, experiential-learning and career awareness program. Innovation Station, located in the Chula Vista Library, Civic Center branch, was created through a collaboration of the District, technology giant Qualcomm, and the City of Chula Vista. Mr. Bruder has been there from the start, working with Matthew R. Tessier, Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent, Innovation and Instruction, to develop cutting-edge partnerships ranging from local water agencies to San Diego Gas & Electric.

On May 22, the Classroom of the Future Foundation will hold its 16th Annual “Innovation in Education” Awards at SeaWorld.

This event brings together more than 500 educators and business leaders to highlight champions of educational innovation in the community, as well as exceptional students pursuing careers in STEM education. The Foundation will honor CVESD with its Impact Award. This award is the most prestigious award given to the one program that embodies the foundation’s three guiding attributes: inspire, innovate and achieve. These culminate in realizing a fourth: impact on teachers, students and community.

“We are truly honored to receive this award and share it with both our local and school community,” Mr. Bruder said. “We are immensely proud of the innovative learning experiences that are being provided for our students, both at our station experiences and school sites’ makerspaces, which would not be possible without the amazing teachers and wonderful community partners that we have.”

2 6 OUR HOME TOWN / MAY 2 0 1 9

During their visit to Innovation Station, CVESD students explore their personal strengths, interests and values, and discuss how they can utilize these strengths and interests to set measurable goals for their future. Using the engineering design process, a project-based learning opportunity is presented to students in small groups. Students are asked to solve real-world challenges in public safety, environment, health and wellness, education, and entrepreneurship. For example, students working to address issues in public safety can work in groups to address a problem related to wildfires.

Specifically, they are presented with an engineering challenge of designing and building a device that would help firefighters to contain wildfires and reduce risk to their lives.

Beginning this school year, Mr. Bruder has stepped outside the classroom and now coordinates the District’s Innovation Station and newly-launched Energy Station, facilitates the final stages of the new Hydro Station, and assists teachers with the curriculum and development of school site makerspaces. In recognition of his work to help students blend art and engineering and for inspiring creativity and innovation, Mr. Bruder was honored last year as Outstanding Staff Member by the San Diego County School Boards Association.

Throughout the design and implementation of Innovation Station (and now Energy Station and Hydro Station), Mr. Bruder has championed the cause of disadvantaged students.

CVESD’s innovative learning experiences encourage local students to consider careers in STEAM fields, career fields that for many of them might seem out of reach for a wide variety of reasons. With its guided World of Work, the visits to Innovation Station and Energy Station illustrate how a student’s interests, strengths and values may lead to a successful career in science, technology, engineering, the arts and math.

16th Annual

Monday. June 3, 2019

10 am Shotgun Start

at the Premier San Diego Country Club (88 L Street, Chula Vista)

Sponsorships

Diamond: $10,000 Title: $7,000

Dining: $6,000 Eagle: $4,000 Birdie: $2,500

Sponsorships in bold include: company name and logo prominently displayed throughout the event and tables. Sponsor will receive special recognition at the Awards Ceremony.

Sponsor will receive signage at one tee and may have a company exhibit.

Longest Drive: $1,500 Closest to the Pin: $1,500 Hole: $500

A portion of the net proceeds will benefit the South Bay Family YMCA and the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce.

Thank you for your support!

Registration Foursome: $2,000 • Individual Player: $500 Includes: Green Fee, Cart, Range Balls, Breakfast & Lunch Buffet, Awards Ceremony Name

Participant(s)

Company

1

Phone Card # Name on Card

2

Email Exp.

3

Total Amount

4

If paying by Check, please make payable to Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce and mail to 233 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910

Questions? Contact the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce: (619) 420-6603 or admindesk@chulavistachamber.org

C H U L A V I STA C H A M PIONS

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