The Santee Magazine - V08.2 - Summer 2019

Now Playing: Off Broadway Live

Santee Arts & Entertainment

Santee Street Fair Guide

Santee Chamber Veterans Golf Tournament

Staff Notepad...

Summertime can be odd when you live in San Diego County, especially in Santee. Most of the time, summer really starts in the spring and often flows deep into fall. October can still have triple digit temperatures and November is known as the sunniest month in our year.

But being parents, summer for our family will commence once the kids are on break from school. With the Grossmont Union High School District ending their year on June 5th and the Santee School District ending on June 12th, it will be a truly perfect summer evening the following day when the summer concert series picks back up and we start our first of several Thursday evenings in the park.

For those new to town, these concerts are what sets our town apart in the summertime. I enjoy packing a backpack and hopping on my bike to head down for family, friends, music and food.

Town Center Community Park is already my summertime hub for entertainment in town, and soon enough it will be my year round epicenter.

Eventually, on the opposite side of the riverbed, packed on the northside of Trolley Square, we will have a new movie theatre and Karl Strauss - see updates on these projects on page 26.

Just across the street is the home of Off Broadway Live which happens to be our cover and feature story. Read more about my personal experience with them starting on page 4. This issue is packed with other arts and entertainments around town.

Check out ‘A Walk Back in Time’ on page 18 and take your own walk back in time by visiting the Santee Drive-In! Staff member Jennae Gonzalez shares her first recollection of visiting the treasured Santee landmark on page 19. I’m looking forward to a beautiful summer in Santee!

On the Cover: Owner of Off Broadway Live, Steve Rolf, and performers during a recent show. Read more about the venue on pages 4-5.

9 My Hometown

13

25 Student Standouts

26

27 Community Calendar

– Photo Credit: David S. Martin Photography

Kristen Dare & Staff Santee Chamber of Commerce

Chairman’s Message

Bobbie Jo Lewis

2019 Chair of the Board

Santee Chamber of Commerce

Santee has a plethora of offerings when it comes to Arts and Entertainment in town, and with developments in the works, plenty more on the horizon. Walmart plays a small part by offering a selection of home entertainment products and art supplies, but when I mentally visualize a drive around town, I’m impressed!

Just to name a few highlights…

Lessons to Learn or DIYs at:

Art with Larisse

Desert Rose Studios

Hobby Town Santee

Let’s Dance San Diego

Michael’s

Staump Music School

Touch of Class Dance Academy

Live Music at:

BNS Brewing & Distilling

Carlton Oaks Golf Club

Concert at the Lakes

Full Circle Saloon

Kaffee Meister

Pacific Islander Beer Company

Santee Bluegrass Festival

Santee Summer Concert Series

Entertainment at:

Creation & Earth History Museum

Off Broadway Live

Santee Drive-In Theatre

Santee Lakes Recreational Preserve

Santee Historical Museum

Santee Library

Santee Salutes

Santee Street Fair

Sportsplex USA

Uptown Jungle Fun Park

I’m certain there are many more opportunities that haven’t made my quick list, but I encourage each of you to get out and around Santee this summer and experience all it has to offer.

2019 Officers

Bobbie Jo Lewis, Chair of the Board Walmart – 619.449.7900

Tim Staump, Chair Elect

Staump Productions – 619.888.7445

Darcy Fagerwold, 1st Vice Chair

Expressions Dance & Movement Center – 619.596.3362

Melissa Dombo, 2nd Vice Chair Raceway Electric – 619.596.1918

Kristine Costa, Secretary

Waste Management Inc. – 619.596.5100

Mike Clinkenbeard, Treasurer Farmers Insurance – 619.442.0415

Darlene Fenn, Past Chair

COHR Consulting – 858.518.3702

2019 Directors

Travis Alegria

Sharp Business Systems – 619.258.1400x1104

Laura Koval

Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve – 619.258.4617

Ailen Lloyd

Lloyd’s Collision & Paint Center – 619.448.8768

Joe Mackey XL Staffing – 619.247.4918

Dan O’Brien

O’Brien Insurance – 619.449.9075

James Peasley

Padre Dam Municipal Water District – 619.448.3111

Barbara Ryan

Santee School District – 619.701.5751

Warren Savage

U.S. Naval Sea Cadets – 619.249.2282

Kyle Whissel Whissel Realty – 858.699.3895

Pamela White

City of Santee – 619.258.4100 Ext 223

Doug Whitney Whitney Promotions – 858.735.6128

Office Staff

Kristen Dare CEO

Jennae Gonzalez Sydnee Cable Office Manager Membership Director

Santee

Santee Chamber of Commerce

Editor

Kristen Dare

Graphic Design

Arli Wolfson

Contributing Editors

Melissa Dombo

Jennae Gonzalez

Committee Members

Kristen Dare

Melissa Dombo

Manda Hall

Tom Romstad

Kristopher Shannon

Eddie Wall

Arli Wolfson

Contributing Writers

Savanna Clyne

Kristen Dare

Melissa Dombo

Jennae Gonzalez

Rick Griffin

Curtis Ippolito

Bobbie Jo Lewis

John Minto

Tom Romstad

Alicia Inez Santana

Jon Shellhammer Surrogate Alternatives

Contributing Photographers

Carol Sonstein

Damien Olmeda

Dan Scott, Bassjockey Photography

David S. Martin Photography

Doug McMinimy

Lynda Marrokal

Maria Maes

Scott Bolle

Printer

Advanced Web Offset

Joh n Minto Mayor City of Santee

What do you think of when you hear the term, ‘Arts and Entertainment’?

When I ask people, what is art, many said it is the idea of great works of art. In this case, we are talking about paintings. Others express ‘art’ as great books, poems, and music.

How about entertainment?

I have to admit no one has described paintings as entertainment, although we can all agree going an art gallery can qualify as entertainment. I most often hear ‘entertainment’ described in a contemporary manner.

People talk about watching television, going to the movies, going out to dinner, going to a play or going to a concert. I like to think of Arts and Entertainment as all of the above.

Isn’t entertainment a way of relaxing and passing the time?

Santee is a leader in providing time for people to relax and pass the time. We deliver street fairs, a 4th of July celebration, summer concerts, and a variety of year-round activities for adults and youth. We even have performing arts in Santee via Off Broadway Live. Santee Lakes presents classic and contemporary movies along with an annual concert.

Art moves people, and there is evidence all around us suggesting Santee delivers art. The next time you attend a concert, you will see people moved by music. They will dance, they will sing, they will remember, some will smile as they relax, and others might cry.

It shouldn’t be much longer before we have a theater in Santee and we will be able to broaden the type of arts and entertainment for our community. If we don’t have what you are looking for in Santee, drop us a line and make a recommendation at http://cityofsanteeca.gov.

As always, have a great Santee day.

Mayor John Minto

No Audition Needed... Off Broadway Live is the Best Act in Town

Hey Santee! How many of you know where Mission Creek shopping center is located? Food-4-Less, Pizza Hut, Tutor Time, Simply Spa and a whole lot more tucked back into the business commons… well here’s a harder question: How many of you know that Off Broadway Live is in that shopping plaza and have been to a show? After working at the Santee Chamber of Commerce for nearly five years, and Off Broadway Live being a participating member of the Chamber since (their) day one, I was ashamed to admit I wasn’t one of those people.

Back towards the end of January I was able to spend several hours learning just how special it is that Santee has them as our exclusive performing arts venue. The Chamber hosts several lunchtime workshops there throughout the year, but otherwise, it was embarrassing to admit to owner, Steve Rolf, that I had yet to join him for an evening show (and saying it’s just “a show” is an understatement). Especially as they are in their 7th Season and audiences are raving about the performances.

With a mix of Theatrical Musical Plays and Specialty Dinner Shows, there is something for everyone to see at Off Broadway Live. Personally, I traded out my husband for a date night with my mom to see OBL’s “Chicago II” ENCORE Supper Club performance.

For what may seem a bit mysterious to a passerby, walking into OBL on a Saturday night was perfection from start to finish. Greeted by Steve’s wife Jennifer at the door, we were escorted to our seats to start what turned into a memorable evening.

Our show included a drink ticket which was a nice start to get settled into the intimate table of four. With a wine bar and beer available, the patrons seated with us were

complimentary about the quality of drinks served, so I wasted little time getting in line.

Having built a commercial kitchen inside the theater, Executive Chef, Tom Grady, has put his menu into another orbit for ENCORE Supper Club shows, and we were told immediately it tastes even better than we would imagine. They were right!

The five-piece Encore Band, along with some of San Diego’s finest singers, has the house rocking with their ENCORE Supper Club shows, which have been selling out these “Five Night Events” weeks and sometimes months in advance. We were lucky enough to see them AND an additional horn trio for our show. I mean, it was Chicago after all.

From the inviting venue, the incredible food and the major talent in the show, it made for a beautiful experience, all less than a mile and a half away from my home. I left thinking, “I found out how wonderful these shows are right in time for Valentine’s Day, because this place is the premier date destination in town, and it’s been right under my nose for years!” Low and behold, I was back on the 14th for their Love Songs performance with my husband, Brandon, finding him as impressed as I had been on my first visit. Realizing how much work goes into each performance, I wondered how Steve did it all, he simply replies “Dreams don’t just come true, you have to wake up every morning and work your tail off to make it a reality. This has been my mantra since day one. What I didn’t know at the start was how this place, this theater, would fuel so many others dreams, not just mine; it is better now, than I ever thought possible.

If you haven’t been to Off Broadway Live in the past two years, then THIS Off Broadway Live is unlike anything

“Dreams don’t just come true. You have to wake up every morning and work your tail off to make it a reality...”

you’ve seen before; the professional talent, the food, the wine & beer, the sound & lights, the stage sets, and the shows performed have put this theater on par with any theater in San Diego. The actors you see on the stage are the same you see starring on San Diego’s downtown stage, but, at an affordable price for everyone. The same theater critics that said this theater would not be supported and out of business in one year, are now saying, “This regional theater offers the same professional talent the “Big Theaters” offer, and do it in a way we have never seen before.”

All these dreams sound like a lot of work, but I don’t see Steve buckling under the pressure. In fact, he praises those around him. “I get to work with some of the most incredible, professional people in music and theater in San Diego; we have become a family. Actually, we call ourselves the “Island of Misfits”, because in some way or another, this craft we love so much has broken each of us, but, we have a “Safe Harbor” at Off Broadway Live, where we get to come to every weekend, fill each other up, then, pour it out on our Patrons, Family & Friends.”

But like any true artist with appreciation, he’d never forget to thank his fans. “Now to the Patrons; we believe theater and music should inspire, make you feel, make you remember the reasons why you fell in love with that special someone, remember the person you were when you first started out and re-connect with yourself, or keep going when the odds are against you.”

Thank you, Steve and Jennifer; I felt like I walked into your home when I walked into your business, and that is something I hope every owner in Santee strives to achieve.

I invite all of you to check OBL’s calendar of events and find something that catches your attention as each show promises to be different from the last. When you walk away from Off Broadway Live, you do it with a smile, feeling a little better than when you came in; something that’s always their desire as performers at OBL.

Get ready for a night out on the town right here, in the best town there is.

Season Tickets are available and offer a wide array of choices to fit any budget.

Please visit www.OffBroadwayLive.com or call 619. 988.LIVE (5483)

TSM – Kristen Dare

Santee Bluegrass Festival Puts FUN in Fundraiser

Even if you have attended the Santee Bluegrass Festival since its inception in 2010, you might not know it is a major fundraiser. While the live bluegrass music, food and beverage samples often take center stage, the festival’s main goal is to raise funds for the Santee Park and Recreation Committee (SPARC), and to support People, Parks, and Programs.

People – Through the Voucher Incentive Program, more than $25,000 of financial assistance has been provided to qualifying Santee children, teens and seniors to take part in recreation programs. This allow citizens to experience new opportunities, make friends, and improve quality of life.

Parks – Improvements to local parks are funded, enhancing dynamic open space for all to enjoy. Beautification murals at the Walker Preserve and Riverpark area utility boxes transformed unsightly areas. Pickleball fans can now play at Big Rock Park thanks to pickleball equipment. The disc golf course at Mast Park included equipment purchased with festival proceeds, and that course will return when Mast Park reopens later this year. Public safety in parks and on trails has been enhanced due to Sheriff patrol bicycles funded by festival proceeds. In addition, each time you see the American flag waving atop the beautiful flagpole at Town Center Community Park East, the Santee Bluegrass Festival helped fund that, too.

Programs – The Santee Teen Center, a safe and engaging after-school location for teens, is able to keep their doors open because of funds raised at the Santee Bluegrass Festival. Friends, games, food and homework help are only a few of the highlights teens get to experience at the Santee Teen Center at Big Rock Park. Additionally, bus transportation funding for Santee Seniors 55+ field trips keeps participation costs down to allow trips such as the Getty Center, Welk Theatre, and the Huntington. This allows local senior citizens to enjoy relaxing trips where they can socialize with friends and not have to worry about transportation.

In addition to ticket sales, the Santee Bluegrass Festival fundraiser has numerous onsite elements to raise funds.

Easily the most eye-catching are the Giving Trees. Three large, lighted trees stand in the center of the festival, and each tree contains items and products from local restaurants and attractions, including Disneyland, SeaWorld, concert tickets, hotel stays, golf packages, and more. Much like the Buy it Now feature on eBay, the Giving Trees eliminate the need to hover over an auction bid all night. Simply pull the item you want off the tree, purchase it right away, and get on with enjoying the food, drinks, and music.

If you enjoy the thrill of wondering whether you’ll be a winner, the opportunity drawing is for you. Purchase drawing tickets, and place them in the item you’d like to win. Drawing items have included season passes to the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, food and drink packages, autographed sports memorabilia, and more. At the end of the evening, winners will be drawn and given their prizes.

Lastly, for a guaranteed return on your investment, the ever-popular Pick-a-Cork returns. Purchase a numbered wine cork for $20, and you’re guaranteed a gift card or gift certificate worth at least $20. You can’t lose!

This year’s Santee Bluegrass Festival fundraiser will take place on Saturday, September 14 from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now, but going fast. Opportunities for sponsorships and sampling booths are also available.

Visit www.SanteeBluegrassFestival.com to purchase your tickets or reserved table and for additional information, including an up-to-date list of participating restaurants, breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries. Remember, your ticket purchase supports People, Parks, and Programs. See you in September!

TSM

– Jon Shelhammer

What Exactly is a STEAM School?

A Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math School.

Chet F. Harritt’a core curriculum accelerates achievement using an integrated, inquiry-based model of learning. Students study essential questions based upon the intersection of the Next Generation Science Standards and the Common Core State Standards. Inquiry based learning develops and utilizes students’ natural curiosity and allows for an authentic and connected learning experience. This type of education leads to a deeper understanding of important content. “My class and I worked as a team studying and comparing different kinds of plants. We learned about its life cycle and gathered quantitative data. We kept notes in our science journals and made charts and diagrams.”

- Brodie Rollins, 6th Grade Teacher

Enrichment opportunities are abundant at Chet F. Harritt school. “It is truly amazing to see the number of enrichment opportunities that our students enjoy. In the last two years we have added a wonderful array of experiences We seemingly add more each week.” Says faculty member, Stephanie Borden. We offer a wide variety of enrichment opportunities both during and after school. During school opportunities include: Primary STEAM rotations, Engineering and Design Classes, Drama, Art, Outdoor Science Education at the Big Rock Outdoor Laboratory, Environmental Farm to Table Gardening, Coding, Visual Art, and Leadership (including the Cheetah News Broadcast). Current After School Clubs include: Summer STEAM learning program, Hiking Club, Running Club, Green Gardening, Hoops and Chess Club.

Chet F. Harritt has a number of ongoing community and academic partners that add tremendous value to our students’ STEAM experience. Current partnerships include:

STEM Scopes (Rice University) and Amplify Technology who provide the very best middle school science curricula based on the Next Generation Science Standards, the US Navy supports our program with classroom volunteers,

physical fitness program, special events and DoDEA grant support, San Diego County Office of Education supports our program with professional development opportunities such as “Science Note-booking” which allows us to work on a form of data collection that provides evidence of student thinking, Grossmont and Cuyamaca College support with field trips and site projects. Contact school administration if you, or your company, would like to become involved. We are happy to discuss one of our many partnership options.

Interested in joining their STEAM Team? “Chet F. Harritt school administration and teaching staff have created an inspiring vision for student learning. Chet is a county-wide model for STEAM learning experiences and collaborative learning environments. Staff is committed to providing the best education possible for the students of Chet F. Harritt STEAM Magnet School.”

– Kristin Baranski, Superintendent

“STEAM based education represents a marvelous opportunity to deeply access the knowledge and skills necessary for our students to be successful with the newly adopted Common Core Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards. It provides the greatest opportunity for our students to truly be ‘College and Career Ready’. We see this as a moral imperative.“

– Tylene Hicks, Principal

We embrace inquiry-based learning experiences that emphasize creativity, and collaborative problem solving. We integrate student learning experiences in a manner that maximizes student engagement and promotes resiliency and perseverance. TSM

My Hometown

Enriching Lives Through Music and Community

You can’t deny Tim’s passion for music and people. From studio lessons to local schools’ musical education, tied with community support; Tim is truly enriching lives throughout East County.

“Music picked me. I moved around a lot as a child, and music was a consistent passion that always stayed with me.” shares Tim Staump, owner of Staump Music School.

Tim reflects on why he got started: “I first started Staump Music School in my Grandma’s living room in Lakeside. I had been a professional musician for a few years, and saw a need for music education in the community. There are no music programs in the Santee schools, and not a lot of music schools in San Diego County at all.”

“I also noticed that most music lesson programs in San Diego lack the proper training tools that musicians need; such as recording and performing live music while also providing a fun customized experience.”

Tim is a drummer by profession, but also plays guitar, bass, and ukulele. When he isn’t at Staump Music School, you can find Tim teaching drumline at Greenfield Middle School. During his career he studied under some legendary drummers which led him to become a passionate music educator.

Staump Music School is celebrating their 11 year anniversary and boasts 6 instructors offering music lessons for guitar, bass guitar, voice, piano, drums/percussion, ukulele and violin.

Tim deserves a standing ovation for his community involvement. Tim heavily supports the Santee School District Foundation. He also sits on the Board of Directors for the Santee Chamber of Commerce and chairs the planning committee for the Santee Street Fair. He clearly has heart for Santee.

Over the past 11 years, Staump Music School has worked with thousands of students in and outside of their studio. Working with all 9 Santee schools, Greenfield Middle School, Lakeview Elementary, and Darnall Charter School, Staump Music School has really filled the music education void. “I love seeing my students fulfill their goals and sparking a new passion for music in them.” Says Tim. “We have many students who have gone on to pursue careers in music production, audio engineering, and music education. Most of our current teachers began as students at Staump Music School.”

Start your musical journey today with the dedicated professionals at Staump Music School. Specializing in providing customized music lessons. We also offer the only rock class program for 4-7 year olds in the area.

Sign up today! www.staumpmusicschool.com

“Music has allowed me to use my passion as my means of living, while making a positive impact on the community. For me, Santee is home. The community here is like one big, supportive family.” shares Tim.

His unique approach focuses on performance-based learning. Staump Music School produces professional concerts and local shows to give their students the opportunity to showcase their talents in a family-friendly, community environment. Staump Music School is known for the two big productions they host each year in Spring and Fall. They are 2-hour, rock-band-style performances that bring together all of their students and teachers. In addition they get out into the community where students have also performed at the Santee Street Fair, House of Blues, Lestsat’s West, Whisky a Go Go in Hollywood, and other public events.

If you are interested in music lessons or learning more, check out Staump Music School. They are located in Santee and offer lessons by appointment, Give them a call at 619-212-6656. TSM

– Melissa Dombo

– Photos courtesy of Dan Scott, Bassjockey Photography

Finding Connection and Passion in the Art of Dance

“If it wasn’t for dance, I believe I would be on a path of destruction, I really don’t know where I would be.” Stephanie Vasquez explains.

Her dance career didn’t begin at an early age. To watch her dance you would never know that this strong, poised dancer and accomplished choreographer didn’t know the stage until her mid teens.

While growing up in East County, Stephanie was hit with many harsh realities that created a bit of anarchy at home. “My mom had her own struggles during my childhood; I had to really find my way on my own.” she shares.

“What was technically my freshman year of high school, I was barely attending school at all. I happened to choose dance as my elective and that was the day I found my passion. Until that point, I was just making really bad decisions.”

Living in a home where they didn’t always have money for necessities, she started working at a local pizza place. One day at work, a co-worker informed her of a summer dance program offered by an instructor named Darcy Fagerwold; a woman who would prove to be a strong influence in her life.

“I knew this summer class was a one-time splurge because I didn’t have the money to continue with dance classes outside of school. Darcy really took me under her wing and gave me a scholarship so I could continue. She coordinated rides for me so I could get to the studio and allowed me to work there as her apprentice. I practically lived there.”

“Following high school, I was content with where I was in my life, I was doing the bare minimum to keep my head above water. I wasn’t motivated to really do much other than dance. Frankly my life choices were still on a shaky path. Darcy gave me an ultimatum to make some big changes or leave the studio. Because of my choices, I had to go.” shares Stephanie.

“For a time, I didn’t dance at all. When I began to reflect on my life, I realized how passionate I was about dance.

I decided to make real changes. I enrolled in college, I started dancing and auditioning for work here in San Diego. I met people in the local dance community and I learned a lot. I made a conscience choice to do better with my life, I started excelling in my college courses and held a 4.0 GPA.”

Stephanie and Darcy rekindled their relationship. “Darcy was paying attention and saw that I changed, and really wanted better for myself. She hired me back at the studio. I started back as an instructor and now I am the Dance Program Director. I am living my dream job.”

Stephanie has gone on to accomplish so much in her short dance career. From choreography to professional dance showcases, she is truly living her passion.

Sharing some of her career highlights, “I attended Summer intensives with local award winning choreographers. I have been a professional dancer for several shows such as the Trolley Dances. I have been hired to be a part of the San Diego Young Choreographers Showcase. I was one of 10 selected out of hundreds of applicants to showcase my choreography in front of a panel of judges.”

“Dance lessons really do teach life lessons. Dance helps us express ourselves in a way that is unique to us. It takes practice and dedication. Sometimes it is doing the same skill hundreds of times before you get it right; you are forced to put in the work. Dance gave me confidence in my abilities because no one but me was in charge of my progress, I was the only one that could make myself grow.”

Stephanie reflects on the influences of dance, Darcy and Expressions Dance and Movement Center. “This is where I want to be. This studio cares so much about each child – I want to make a positive impression on these kids. I want to pay it forward and do for these kids what was done for me. Inspired by how dance saved my life, I plan to continue my personal growth and development so I can help influence these kids lives.”

Find your connection. Find your passion. TSM

– Melissa Dombo

–

Photograph by Doug McMinimy

Pitch(er)

Perfect: Live Grooves and Local Brews

Full Circle Saloon

8528 N. Magnolia Avenue #105 619.596.8350

fullcirclesaloon.com • Facebook @fullcirclesaloon

We are your favorite local bar with live music every Friday and Sat, karaoke, darts, pool tables, shuffleboard and sports! 3 happy hours! Drink and paint days, special events and fundraisers! Friendly, attentive staff and full bar with a variety of liquor, bottled beer, wine and 8 beers on tap. We support the local breweries and community! Cheers!

Pacific Islander Beer Co.

8665 Argent Street 619.270.7777 pibbeer.com • Facebook @pibbeer

June Events: 5th Anniversary Party June 21st and 22nd Event with Live Music

Food Trucks. Live Music every Friday and Saturday. Free Live Adult Comedy

Thursday 20th 7-8:30pm. Sunday June 23 Brewery Bicycle Crawl. June 30th Dog Friendly Party with a FREE seminar for training your dog. Free Private Event room for all occasions. $5 Pints every Monday and Tuesday.

On March 29th the Santee Chamber of Commerce held its inaugural Santee Heroes Luncheon. It was a beautiful afternoon gathering of Santee organizations, Community Leaders, and Elected Officials receiving local honors and celebrating Santee Chamber’s 2018 Person of the Year.

Award recipients were:

Buddy Rabaya, Person of the Year, Santee Chamber of Commerce

Doug Wilson, Rotarian of the Year, Santee-Lakeside Rotary Club

Janae Krull, Deputy of the Year, San Diego Sheriff’s Department

Matt Brown, Firefighter of the Year, Santee Fire Department

Gillian Ryan, Educator of the Year, Santee School District

Staff Sergeant Damion Cardell, Military Appreciation Award, Heavy Helicopter Squadron - US Marine Corps

– Photos courtesy of Lynda Marrokal

Hosted by the Santee Chamber of Commerce

May 25th | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

TRIBUTE TO OUR LOCAL VETERANS AND HE RO ES

Best Craft Beer Garden in the East County

VIP Pre-Sale Tickets for $25 Includes 10 Beer Tasters and a Meal Purchase tickets at SanteeStreetFair.com

Free Event Admission

300 Food & Vendor Booths

Two Stages of Entertainment

Carnival Rides and Inflatable Zone

Presented by:

M A I N S T A G E

1 0 a m ~ O p e n i n g C e r e m o n i e s w i t h C l i n t A u g u s t

1 0 : 3 0 a m ~ A m e l i e S i m p s o n { A c o u s t i c S i n g e r / S o n g w r i t e r }

1 1 a m ~ W e s t W i n d { A m e r i c a n a }

1 1 : 3 0 a m ~ D r i v i n g T h e B u s { F u n k / R o c k }

1 2 : 3 0 p m ~ E n t e r t h e B l u e S k y { A m e r i c a n a }

1 : 3 0 p m ~ S t a u m p M u s i c S c h o o l

3 : 3 0 p m ~ L o o k U p H e r e { P u n k P o p }

4 p m ~ C a s u a l S i x { C o v e r B a n d }

C O M M U N I T Y S T A G E

1 0 a m - 1 2 p m ~ C i t y o f S a n t e e

1 2 p m - 1 p m ~ E x p r e s s i o n s D a n c e & M o v e m e n t C e n t e r

1 p m - 2 p m ~ L e m o n C r e s t E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l

2 p m - 3 : 3 0 p m ~ E x p r e s s i o n s D a n c e & M o v e m e n t C e n t e r

3 : 3 0 p m - 4 p m ~ O l d S c h o o l S k a t e r s

4 p m - 5 p m ~ I n f i n i t y G y m n a s t i c s a n d D a n c e

5 p m - 5 : 3 0 p m ~ R o b o t i x D a n c e F a m i l y

5 : 3 0 p m - 6 p m ~ R a y l i n C l o g g e r s

California Best Kettlecorn

Chick-fil-A Santee

Delish Dogs

Doggos Gus

Finest City Kettlecorn

Gnarly Nachos

Hawaiian Honey Cones

Hunter Steakhouse

Kona-Ice

Ledesmas Nachos & Corn

Pike's Iron Wagon BBQ

So Cal Lemonade

Santee Coffee Corner

The Sweet Stop

In keeping with this issue’s Arts & Entertainment theme, we’ve gone back in time to explore early entertainments in Santee’s past.

Link:

13C9C6B7215D5F86%402442253-13C610310403BD6A%4049-13DA33C02B9C5E20%40 Date:

According to a 1974 San Diego Union article, the Boot Hill Saloon, on Mission Gorge Road, featured Topless and Burlesque Dancers.

Santee became home to Radio Station KCBQ in 1968, broadcasting Top 40 music, switching to adult contemporary in 1978, country music in 1982, and finally Rock ‘n Roll oldies in 1985.

In 2004, the building and transmitter towers were demolished to make room for Kohl’s and Lowe’s on Mission Gorge Road.

On August 28, 2010, a monument to KCBQ was dedicated near the site of the broadcast center.

One of the few remaining in the country, the Santee Drive In opened in 1962, and as an entertainment landmark, is still offering first run movies right here in Santee.

18 The Santee Magazine

Let’s All Go to the Drive-In!

Snacks, blankets, and comfy clothes!

You may think I am describing a typical night of staying in watching Netflix. This however is a casual outing in our beautiful City of Santee, the Santee Drive-In Theatre.

The drive-in offers the perfect night for families, cheap first dates, or for long-time lovers looking to rekindle their youth.

I am fortunate enough to not be too young nor too old to have experienced multiple nights at the drive-ins. I have seen a wide variety and genres of movies all in the comfort of a tailgate of a truck. Not many people have the opportunity to be bundled up with typical movie snacks and watch the latest box office hit.

The movies are broadcast through the FM radio in your vehicle, so it’s good to make sure your radio is working before you go. Although, I have fallen victim to the car battery dying on me at the end of the night. Don’t worry if you have an experience like me, since they have portable jump kits for dead batteries, just in case.

The Santee Drive-In, located at 10990 North Woodside Avenue, is still operated by the same family that built it in 1958, James and Patti Henry.

Movies are shown nightly 7 nights a week and year-round, so you don’t have an excuse as to why you have not made this an outing with your family and friends.

In 1961, the Santee was only charging $1.50 per carload. Nowadays, it is only at most $9 per person which still beats the price of watching the latest movie in theatres. It makes it a no-brainer to decide whether to pay out $12 to watch a movie where you can’t bring your own snacks versus the Santee Drive-In where you can bring a full pizza and snacks and still not even pay a fraction of what you would at your normal sit down movie theatre.

If you are still having that never-ending sweet tooth like me, they do have a concession stand onsite to satisfy that unexpected craving.

Santee is very lucky to still have an operating Drive-In that we all should be enjoying. I encourage you to consider adding in a night at the Santee Drive-In to your family nights out. It is a fun and affordable way to get your whole family engaged for even just a few hours.

I have a teenage brother who is constantly glued to his phone, so I know how difficult it can be to have their full attention. As a 15-year-old, my brother wants to plan a night out with his friends at the Santee Drive-In. It was quite surprising that he would want to do something so retro and out of the box with his friends.

Jennae

• Richard Hollingshead opened the first outdoor theater for the auto-bound in Camden, N.J. on June 6, 1933. People paid 25 cents per car, as well as per person, to see a movie under the stars.

• The concept didn’t really become popular until the advent of in-car speakers in the early 1940s.

• The drive-in’s peak popularity came in the late 1950s and early 1960s, particularly in rural areas, with some 4,000 drive-ins spread across the United States.

• By 2013, drive-ins comprised only 1.5 percent of movie screens in the United States, with 389 theaters in operation.

• Many drive-in movie sites remain, many of them dual purposed as storage or flea market sites.

TSM

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Gonzalez – Photos courtesy of Scott Bolle

My name is Diana Olmeda, the President & CEO of Surrogate Alternatives, Inc. (SAI), a local San Diego based business. SAI specializes in third-party reproduction through surrogacy and egg donation; two options for those looking at alternative ways to become parents.

In 1997, I chose to pursue my career in this industry after a close family friend asked if I would consider becoming a surrogate for her and her spouse because she had a severe medical condition that prohibited her from carrying their own child. Unfortunately, her health deteriorated quickly and I wasn’t able to fulfill their dream of becoming parents.

I have been fortunate to have easy, uncomplicated pregnancies and felt my best when I was pregnant. The thought of being able to give the gift of life to someone who needed me, was something I felt determined to do.

In 1997, I met with a local couple and became pregnant with their TWINS later that year. I felt surrogacy was my passion so, after months of research and meetings with industry professionals, I officially launched Surrogate Alternatives, Inc. (SAI) in 1998.

Built from the ground up when there were only a handful of agencies in existence, Surrogate Alternatives, Inc. (SAI) has become known and recognized worldwide as one of the leading surrogacy and egg donation agencies in the United States.

I feel that we bring knowledge, experience (both personal and professional) and a trustworthy team to the equation to make sure our Surrogates receive the best care and support during their journeys.

Surrogacy isn’t for everyone; it takes a very special woman to be able to give such a precious gift and a strong and supportive inner circle there to support her.

I have spent over 20 years perfecting the complicated process of building families through thirdparty reproduction. I will always make sure my team puts your interests and needs first and gives you the personalized attention you deserve.

I am confident in our ability to make your experience as enjoyable and as memorable as possible!

TSM

- Surrogate Alternatives, Inc.

There’s More to the Library than just Books

We host:

• infant/toddler story times

• teen lock-ins

• themed book clubs

• and Exercise and OASIS classes.

In addition to promoting reading, Summer Learning Activities reduce student ‘summer slide’ with family-friendly activities at 11 am each Wednesday.

Learn, Read, Create @ your library!

New Camper Special $15 Camp Day

Santee Day Camp

Youth entering Grades 1-5

X-Factor Camp

Youth entering Grades 6-9 (up to age 15)

Campers will enjoy their summer full of fun, friends and adventure!

Fun from 7am – 6pm (See guide for details)

Spring Super Saver Special Register by 6/1 and save!

Campers are engaged in structured, supervised activities throughout each day, creating memories that will last a lifetime. X-Factor campers will be in a camp specifically designed for their age group which includes traditional camp activities plus walking field trips, outdoor recreation and field trip privileges.

Weekly camp activity schedules are posted online at SanteeRec.com and provided by Friday of prior week. Tuesdays are field trip days and Wednesdays are swim days (some exceptions may apply). Activities vary daily.

Partial Week Registration (Not available online)

Maximum 3 days per week, must register for minimum of 2 days per week to attend field trip.

Non-field trip days $44 per day

Field trip days $52 per day

Jr Camp Leadership Program

Youth entering grades 9 -12 (up to age 17)

Gain job and leadership skills while having fun!

Mandatory Training Week 6/17 – 6/21

Contact Community Services at 619-258-4100 ext. 222 for more information

full guide info or contact Community Services at (619) 258-4100 ext. 222

Questions? Contact Community Services at (619) 258-4100 ext. 222.

Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Center Breaks Ground in Santee

On a warm, sunny morning yesterday, with clear skies and the mountain summits of Mission Trails Regional Park providing a beautiful backdrop, leaders of Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Centers officially broke ground on its newest medical center in Santee.

The new location is scheduled to open in the summer of 2020. It will be at 8701 Cuyamaca Street, at the corner of Cuyamaca Street and Buena Vista Avenue, immediately adjacent to State Route 52, providing excellent access for the growing region’s population.

The Santee medical center will allow Sharp Rees-Stealy to expand many of the services it offers those who live and work in Santee, El Cajon, Lakeside and East County.

The medical center will be a three-story, 86,000-squarefoot building, featuring a solar panel system, electric

care chargers, original art displayed inside and droughttolerant landscaping. There will be a surface parking lot, providing free parking.

Services offered will include primary care, pediatrics, OB/GYN, lab, pharmacy, radiology, optical shop, physical therapy and an urgent care.

Features will include a large fitness room for physical therapy, phototherapy dermatology rooms and a Dexa scan in radiology.

“We’re proud to bring a beautiful, new medical center to East County residents where we will provide all the care they need under one roof,” said Stacey Hrountas, CEO, Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Centers.

TSM

– Curtis Ippolito

_ Groundbraking photo courtesy of Carol Sonstein

Grossmont Healthcare District’s Herrick Community Health Care Library Serves East County Residents

Have you visited the Dr. William C. Herrick Community Health Care Library, either in person or online? If not, you are missing an East County gem! The Herrick Library is a public library that specializes in health information for East County residents.

Do you get overwhelmed when you do a Google search for health or medical information? Do you know which of those millions of search answers are from reliable sources? The library staff can help you sort through that maze and find the right information for you.

Diane Mayorga, an East County resident and regular patron, said she values the support from library staff in finding answers to her health questions. “We all need to reach out to each other and share information, especially about health. I’m really passionate about sharing knowledge and so is the staff here.”

What else does the Herrick Library offer?

• Approximately 3,000 items including books, DVDs, magazines, newsletters, and free pamphlets.

• Checkout of most of the books and DVDs with a Herrick Library card, available to those who live, work, go to school, or receive medical care in the East County region.

• Magazine, journal, and encyclopedia articles from Gale

Cengage databases: Health & Wellness Reference Center, Health Reference Center Academic, and General OneFile.

• Monthly “Wellness Wednesday” health talk, 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m., 4th Wednesday, January – October.

• Monthly blood pressure checks, 2nd Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

• Website with extensive links to reliable and authoritative sites covering all major health topics.

• Ten computers for public use.

• Two small meeting rooms which may be reserved by health-related, community-based, nonprofit organizations for workshops and meetings.

• Support groups for addiction recovery, Alzheimer’s caregivers, cancer patients/survivors or caregivers, chronic lung diseases, chronic pain, and energy & healing.

“The Herrick Library is a tremendous community asset that is available to anyone who wants to access a broad array of healthcare resources and to gain a greater understanding of medical conditions and options,” said Nancy Greengold, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Sharp Grossmont Hospital.

The Herrick Library is operated by the Grossmont Healthcare District and is located at 9001 Wakarusa St. in La Mesa, just east of Sharp Grossmont Hospital and next to La Mesa’s Briercrest Park. See the ad below for hours and contact information. TSM

Santee’s High School Standouts

Extra Curricular Activity: Theatre all four years of high school

Achievements: Received third place in monologues at Shakespeare Festival. Nominated for best supporting actress in The National Youth Arts Awards. Alpha Plus student.

Q: What or who motivates you?

My theatre teacher Carrin Edwards is the biggest motivation in my life. She always inspires me to be the best version of myself and encourages me to work for what I want. She’s shown me how to take bad situations and make them amazing with a simple “Yes, and”. She has taught me so much about myself and the world around me and I can’t thank her enough for that!

Q: What was your favorite performance that you’ve participated in, and why?

My favorite performance I participated in is Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream! It was my first time being a lead in a play and it was such a fun show to put on! I developed so many amazing friendships during this show and was able to act with my best friend and boyfriend. I also discovered my love for Shakespeare!

Q: What is the most rewarding part of being involved in theater?

The most rewarding part of being in theatre is the applause you receive after a performance. It is so rewarding after working so hard on a performance to know that it all paid off.

Extra Curricular Activity: I Santana’s Royal Regiment Marching Band and Color Guard Club as well as the SHS Guitar Club established this year.

Achievements:

Honor band, I cut the ribbon for the Grand Opening of Macy’s Backstage. One of our school’s Drum Majors, and a recipient of the Santee Lakeside Rotary Club Foundation Scholarship

Q: What or who motivates you?

My current Band Director, Mrs. Rohner as well as my Middle school director Mrs. Knoernschild. Both of them help me to strive to be better at the things I do and encourage me. Mrs. K. was the one who introduced music to me and ever since then I have a great love for it. Mrs.Rohner introduced me to conducting, leadership, and much more.

Q: What was your favorite performance that you’ve participated in, and why?

One of my favorite performances I participated in this year was the GUHSD District Field Show. I had such an amazing time conducting our band as well as some of the other bands during our Mass Band Performance.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of being involved in band?

I would say the most rewarding part of being in band is seeing everyone grow because the majority of the students we have are brand new at playing instruments. I love to be with them because they are like my second family to me and I am so grateful for this opportunity to be in such a wonderful band.

Savanna Christine Clyne

West Hills High School Class of 2019

Alicia

Inez Santana

Santana High School Class of 2021

What’s Happening With...

In July 2015, Karl Strauss announced plans to open a restaurant and brewery with large outdoor patio/ lounge spaces in Santee’s Town Center. The project will be located at the northeast corner of Cuyamaca Street and Town Center Parkway north of the existing Target store. The City approved the plans in December of the same year. While no date has been set for completion, legal challenges that delayed the project have been resolved - allowing Karl Strauss to finally move forward. The City of Santee is as pleased at the news as residents who have been waiting impatiently for this exciting new entertainment venue to open!

As a reminder, the City approved plans for a 7,400-square-foot restaurant with a 2,600-square-foot outdoor, a brewery, and a 3,000-square-foot tasting room. An outdoor beer garden/grotto area would include a terraced amphitheater seating area, meandering cobble paths, decks, shade sails, fire pits, and outdoor games (e.g. bocce court, corn hole game, chess board, shuffleboard court, giant Jenga). The venue would also host weddings, small concerts, outdoor movies, music, and dancing.

Please join the City of Santee in welcoming Karl Strauss!

The Movie Theater?

The development of a movie theater in Santee has been a top priority for residents and the City Council since the AMC Santee Village 8 closed in 2000. Despite several false starts, it appears this long-sought goal may finally be fulfilled.

The City has recently partnered with Studio Movie Grill to develop a multi-screen theater and two sit-down restaurants on seven acres north of Trolley Square Shopping Center. The theater will feature comfortable reclining seats and trays for food, with in-theater food service. There will also be an outside patio bar that will be open year-round.

... Karl Strauss?

Community Resource Guide