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march 2009

aLSo InSIDe

RESIDENTS TEAM UP TO FIGHT

BREAST CANCER

hoW The acTIonS oF oTherS make a Dream come TrUemeeT chrISTIan...

aLSo InSIDe

RESIDENTS TEAM UP TO FIGHT

BREAST CANCER

BUSIneSS hIghLIghT: PACK & BIANES VISION CARE | reSIDenT SPoTLIghT: SHILLING FAMILY

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march 2009 my hometown 3

march 2009

WHAT’S INSIDELOCAL GETAWAYS

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FROM THE EDITOR... feature

Residents Team Up To Fight Breast Cancer 16

lifestyle 18Let the Sun Shine In14

NEW SECTION

MY HOMETOWN

MERCADONEW SECTION

MY HOMETOWN

MERCADOPage 26

A LOCAL BOY’S WISHMeet Christian...

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A LOCAL BOY’S WISHA LOCAL BOY’S WISHA LOCAL BOY’S WISH

featureAs the economic downturn stretches

into another month, the temptation grows stronger to simply throw up our hands in feeling there is nothing we can do about any of it. Despite the staggering dollar figures, even the most recent governmental stimulus package seems to represent only a small step in getting the situation moving in the right direction. It has become readily appar-ent that this challenge is not one we can rely solely on others to fix. As individuals and a community, we need to work together to ensure better times come sooner rather than later.

That call to action and service is one that resonates in this month’s edition of My Hometown. Beginning with our cover story, we share with our readers how our personal and collective involvement in community activities pays big dividends. Otay Ranch resident Joyce Buehrer felt so moved by all that the Make-A-Wish Foundation had done for her son Christian that she asked us to help her tell her family’s story. Jessica Speer, another east Chula Vista resident, has formed a local team that will participate in the 3-Day Breast Cancer walk later this year. She is looking for support from the community and we are happy to help spread that word.

In this issue, we also shine light on two small business owners who are moving for-ward with grand openings despite the eco-nomic uncertainly we see affecting compa-nies large and small. The resolve and confi-dence shown by these two individuals offers a real-life example of the type of action called for in our new President’s inaugural address. Thanks to a former local student, we share a personal account of what it felt like to be in Washington D.C. in late January and to feel a resurgence in the American spirit. On a practical level, we offer sugges-tions for making the most of the “extra” hour of sunlight we gain this month.

Finally, as we prepare to celebrate the one-year anniversary of My Hometown with our April issue, we invite you to share with us how you feel about this monthly publica-tion. We look forward to your comments and hope you enjoy reading our latest edition.

Michael Minjares,Editor of My Hometown Eastlake

community newsThe Arts Are Alive at New Hope Community Church 8

YSplash Promotes Water Safety 9

Watching the Inauguration With 1.5 Million of My Closest Friends 10

school newsSchool PE Programs Keep Kids Moving 22

resident spotlightThe Shilling Family 23

business highlightPack and Bianes Vision Care 25

4 my hometown march 2009

feedback

Published byFountain Media Group, Inc PO Box 2122, San Marcos, CA 92079 (800) 497-1309 x710 www.fountain-inc.com

PublishersKaren Smith [email protected]

Tim Minjares [email protected]

editorial/salesMike Minjares [email protected]

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. Fountain Media Group, Inc. is not responsible for the views of contribut-ing 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.

BRAVOTo sienna Vasquez a 7th grader at EastLake Middle School for her performance at the Indio Circuit Equestrian Show in January. She gathered seven first-place finishes in vari-ous English and Hunter classes. In total, she earned eight points towards the World Equestrian Competition that will be held in the fall of 2009.

To Paul estepa a volunteer janitor at the South Bay Family YMCA for nearly 10 years. Paul volunteers at the Y every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the entire day. He emp-ties trash cans, recycles paper, cleans up the bathrooms, and makes sure that the Y is always kept clean and pre-sentable. According to Y staff, Paul is the first one to know if there is a new face, and he welcomes everyone with a smile and a hello. The staff is grateful and appreciative for his janitorial support, and recognizes that the branch would not be as great as it is without Paul’s help.

To douglas e. luffborough, iii, on his appointment to fill the vacancy on the Chula Vista Board of Education. The Board received 23 applications for the seat and interviewed seven finalists publicly at its Feb. 3 special meeting. In his application, Luffborough noted that, “As a product of pub-lic education, my philosophy is to provide a high level of academic excellence to all children and to adapt learning and teaching styles to reflect the population of students in the district.” The east Chula Vista resident is a motivational speaker and presenter who oversees the Turning the Hearts Center, which is devoted to youth development and family empowerment. He has been a member of the Wolf Canyon Elementary PTA and School Site Council.

LOOK WHAT GREAT THInGS YOuR COMMunITY IS uP TO...

To adela Park and her staff on the opening of Tutti Frutti Yogurt in the Marketplace at Windingwalk. The new Otay Ranch yogurt shop will enjoy a “soft opening” on March 5 and welcome neighbors at the store’s grand opening on March 13. The new yogurt option is located near Oggi’s at 2110 Birch Rd., #105.

To ron bolles, on his recent induction into the San Diego City/County Music Teachers Hall Of Fame. Over Ron’s 36-year teaching career he founded 16 choirs. He spent 25 years at Bonita Vista High School and simultaneously spent 15 years at Bonita Vista Middle School. At the Bonita schools, Ron’s choirs received 444 top awards in festivals and competitions. Of these awards, 372 were Sweepstakes, First Places or Superior ratings. Choirs under his direction won 15 nationally rec-ognized competitions. His ensembles participated in cul-tural exchange tours to 17 countries on four continents. Twice his groups were selected to represent the State of California at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.

To readers of My hometown. next month marks our one-year anniversary as a publication. If you have a comment about this monthly community magazine you’d like to see in Bravo next month, then drop us a line and let us know what you think about My Hometown. Our email is [email protected].

if you would like to contribute to braVo,

send a quick note to My Hometown’s editor at [email protected] and we’ll do our best to put your good-news announcement in an upcoming issue. Submissions should be sent by the 10th of the month.

on your doorstep

celebrate st. Patrick’s day with teaThe Bonita Museum and

Cultural Center will hold a “St. Patrick’s Afternoon Tea” on Sunday, March 15 from 2-4 p.m. Participants will enjoy the juried fine art exhibit in the museum, music by saxaphonist Donald Hamilton and a poetry recitation by Jimmy Lydon, an American movie legend. Seating is limited and a $30 donation per person is suggested. Reservations and donations should be made by March 11. To make reservations call Glennalie at (619) 479-9607 or Ernie at (619) 421-6662. The museum is located at 4355 Bonita Road, Bonita, 91902.

seven sd church at olympian highEarlier this year, Seven San Diego Church moved locations

for their Sunday services. Needing a bigger space, the church is now holding services at Olympian High every Sunday at 10 a.m. The church offers a full childcare and kids program from birth through sixth grade. Jeremy McGarity and the other leaders of this new church welcome everyone to attend their services at 1925 Magdalena Ave. Check out the website at www.sevensdchurch.com for more information.

host faMilies needed for foreign students

The Council for Educational Travel, USA has openings for local host families willing to open their home to a junior or senior high school student from another country. Students come from over 40 countries and stay for a period of five to 10 months. Eager to meet a U.S. family, the students come with spending money and insurance and an interest in another culture. By opening their homes, host families also experience a unique and per-sonal involvement in the global community. To find out how you can open your home to an international high school student, visit www.cetusa.org or contact Trish Sheppard at [email protected] or (858) 373-8186.

Police, FireFighters and other oFFicers set For charity Football games

The San Diego Enforcers, a football team made of San Diego County law enforcement officers, paramedics and firefighters, will begin their 2009 season on March 7.

The Enforcers are a part of the national Public Safety Football League, a non-profit organiza-tion made of 22 teams from across

the country that have united to raise funds for charity through spirited competition.

Ticket sales and donations from its four-game season will go to support the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, a fund that provides financial assistance to injured Marines, sailors and their families. The money raised helps defray the expenses incurred during hospitalization, rehabilita-tion and recovery. Home games will be held at Cathedral Catholic High School March 7, beginning at 4 p.m.; April 4, 5 p.m.; and April 25, 5 p.m.

The Enforcers team is made up entirely of volunteer players of varying skill from former nFL, Arena Football League and a variety of Division One college athletes down to beginning level players. The Chula Vista Police Department is one of several public safety organizations represented this year. For more information, visit www.sandiegoenforcers.com.

Enforcers player Valley Coleman from the Chula Vista Police Department takes down an LA Heat player at a game last season.

eVents details:

Season Begins March 7www.sandiegoenforcers.com


on your doorstep

Local CYT Presents Alice in WonderlandThe South County Christian Youth Theater here in the South Bay brings Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland” to our community. The production runs March 6-8 at the Kassebaum Theater of Mater Dei High School located at 1571 Magdalena Ave. Tickets purchased prior to the show cost $12 for adults and $10 for children. The price goes to $15 for adults if purchased at the door. This is a wonderful performance with many of the cast and crew coming from the EastLake area. For showtimes, visit www.cyt.org or call (619) 588-0206 or (800) 696-1929.

My Hometown is always look-

ing for contributors, articles and

stories. We welcome stories about

neighborhood events, human

interest and community building

for all of our sections.

You can contact us by calling

(800) 497-1309 x710 with your

idea or send us an email at

[email protected].

get involved!

get Published!

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on your doorstepon your doorstep

Mathnasium’s grand openingOn Saturday, March 14, Doug Wolf and his staff at

Mathnasium will hold their official grand opening and rib-bon cutting from 12 noon to 2 p.m. The new learning center specializes in teaching math to children. Come by 884 Eastlake Parkway, Suite 1623 in the Village Walk Center of EastLake and share in the opening of this new addition to the community.

best dog competitionCalling all East Chula Vista’s all-star dogs.

Come strut your stuff at the Best Dog Competition on March 22 at 1 p.m. hosted by PETCO of EastLake. Dogs will be judged on manners, ability to follow commands and dog outfit. First prize is a three-month supply of Natural Balance dog food with second-place receiving a Science Diet gift basket. The third place winner will go home with one bag of Natural Balance dog food. All partici-pants will receive a prize just for entering. Register in store or by calling (619) 397-6809.

cV kiwanis’ wine tasting returnsThe 8th Annual Kiwanis Wine Tasting event presented by

Chula Vista Kiwanis is scheduled for Saturday, March 7 at the Norman Park Center on F Street near downtown Chula Vista. This wonderful community event is attended by many of the City’s prominent business people, elected officials and people who care about Chula Vista. The nearly 59-year-old service organization is expecting over 300 people this year. Tickets are $25 per person or $50 per couple. Established on May 16, 1950, the Chula Vista Kiwanis club has over 70 members who are committed to community service in Chula Vista and the greater San Diego County regional community. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Chris Altbaum at (619) 422-1123.

state of the city address March 10Mayor Cheryl Cox will deliver the annual State of the

City Address on Tuesday, March 10. The address will begin at 6 p.m. and take place at the Council Chambers in City Hall, 276 Fourth Ave. To view the agenda, visit www.chulavistaca.gov.

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on your doorstep

March is Arts Education Month and new Hope Community Church is celebrating by launching a new Arts Academy. Housed in new Hope’s brand new state of the art facilities located adjacent to the Olympic Training Center, the Academy offers instruction in music, dance and visual art for ages two to adult. The new Hope Community Church cam-pus includes dedicated rooms for music and dance. A corps of teachers with diverse backgrounds provide training in the arts, and the students will have the opportunity to perform on a regular basis in church ser-vices and activities.

“You can’t have heart without art,” said the Arts Academy coordinators, Ron and Reina Bolles.

no strangers to understanding the power of arts education, the Bolles enjoyed a long affiliation with Bonita Vista High School and Bonita Vista Middle School. The Bolles Theater was so named for their 25 years of helping stu-dents capture awards and accom-plishments in music and dance. Additionally, Reina spent nearly a decade developing and directing the Allen Arts Academy at Allen Elementary School in Bonita. For nine years Ron served as facili-

tator for the School For The Creative and Performing Arts at Chula Vista High School and Chula Vista Middle School.

“This is an ambitious undertaking and we’re excit-ed about opening an Arts Academy to augment our ChristArts program and concert series already in place,” said Reina.

The ChristArts program at the church features an adult choir, a praise band and singers, a drama team, a dance team and a handbell choir.

“As our local schools consider drastic budget cuts and maintaining a viable arts program becomes more difficult, we anticipate that the new Hope Arts Academy may provide families in the community with an afford-able alternative to expose their children to the arts. We believe parents find it particularly gratifying to involve their children in our safe and wholesome environment,” Ron added.

The Arts Academy features dance instruction in pre-ballet, ballet, jazz, and hip-hop, as well as a teen dance ensemble, “Moving Spirit.” The music program offers private instruction in guitar, bass, drums, voice, piano, songwriting, and sound/music engineering. There are also classes in music for preschoolers and their parents. Visual arts instruction is also available in private or small class settings. Additionally, courses in ballroom dancing and Christian yoga are also offered at the church.

“Our doors are open to all who want to experience the wonder and power of the arts in a Christian setting,” Reina said. my.

Information about the Arts Academy can be obtained through visiting

New Hope Community Church located at 2720 Olympic Parkway; by calling

the Church Office: (619) 600-4160; or by checking on their website:

http://go-newhope.com/

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on your doorstep

brar

With warmer months on the horizon, our kids’ desire to be outside and in the water grows. It won’t be long before our children start pleading with us to take them to the beach, the local water park or the backyard swimming pool. At the South Bay Family YMCA, local area youth can prepare for the upcoming summer activities by learning to be water safe.

From April 6-10, our neighborhood YMCA will participate in a nationwide effort called “YSplash.” The program began in 1993 and is designed to educate kids three years and older on

swimming basics and increase their awareness of dangerous situations that can arise at the beach, a water park or in a pool. According to YMCA staff, the non-profit organization has been a swim provider for more than a 100 years now.

“The goal of ‘YSplash’ is to ensure that kids have fun and enjoy the water,” said Briana Quinn, Aquatics Coordinator for the YMCA. “The program focuses on beginning and interme-diate swimmers age three and up. Each class is led by certified swim instructors.”

Last year nearly 300 kids went through “YSplash.” Beginning at eight in the morning and stretching into the evening, the program consists of a half hour class limited to six-to-eight kids per class. Every day for five days, the class centers on a different water-related topic. Participants will receive instruc-tion on pool, boating, beach and water park safety along with learning to become better swimmers. During the program, the pool is heated to between 84 and 87 degrees.

“We have instructors that speak both Spanish and English,” Quinn said. “The instructors talk to the kids and the parents at the start of the program to let them know what the focus is for that day. The role of the parents is to watch and learn what they can do to help their kids become water safe.”

Despite the young age of the participants, Quinn said arm “floaties” or “wings” are not permitted in the pool during the program.

“We encourage kids to learn correct body position rather than rely on their floaties,” said Quinn, who in addition to working at the YMCA also lives in the east Chula Vista com-munity. “What sets us apart from other swim instruction providers is that character development and core values are stressed in each program.”

The cost for “YSplash” is $15. Registration for the program will open on March 1 and close on April 2. Financial assis-tance is available for families who want to participate but may not be able to afford it.

“We have made every effort to keep the costs for the pro-gram as low as possible to expose it to as many kids as pos-sible,” said Tony Fajardo, who oversees the YMCA’s aquatics program. “We don’t turn anyone away because of their finan-cial situation.” my.

For more information, visit the YMCA’s website at southbay.ymca.org,

call (619) 421-8805 or email Briana at [email protected].

YSPLASh PromoTeS WATer SAfeTY


on your doorstep

How important was attending this presidential inauguration to me? Important enough to stand in below-freezing tempera-tures for nine hours with 1.5 million people from across the country. When I got back to my apartment at 3:00 p.m. from the inauguration ceremony, I was exhausted, sore, and couldn’t feel my feet or fingers because of the cold. But I was inspired. Not just by President Obama’s eloquent speech or the overwhelm-ing amount of people who flocked to see this historic day, but by a new inkling of hope. I saw first-hand a resurgence of the American sprit of resilience and courage.

In times like these, it is easy to give in and just accept a dete-riorating situation as inevitable. But after President Obama’s speech, and after looking into the eyes of the thousands of people around me, I knew that once again the people of this country believed in something. There was a sense of unity, pride and excitement about politics that I had not seen in a long time. Seeing a vital turning point in American history first-hand was worth every sore muscle and frozen body part. Hope over-whelmed my fatigue.

As I did not have a ticket to the inauguration, and my room-mate did, I left our apartment at 6:00 a.m. and headed down

to the National Mall by myself. But I was not alone for long. I was soon part of the herd of people swarming down 18th street to the National Mall entrance. I made my way down the Mall. After a few wrong turns, some “excuse me’s”, and impro-visational navigation, I had found an area next to a screen and a speaker, with a clear view of the Capitol building, and plenty of open space. The people at the Capitol were mere specks in the distance, however, as I was about a half-mile away from the Capitol.

Despite the 10-degree wind chill, everyone had a warmth of excitement about them. The anticipation was growing exponentially. The buzz of excitement was unparalleled. I have never seen so many people excited about politics. Kids of all ages, in strollers and with juice boxes, were holding close to their parents, waving their American flags. It was refreshing to see children excited about being an American.

Finally, noon had come and with the usual pomp and cir-cumstance, all the dignitaries, senators, and representatives had been seated. The time had come and the anticipation exploded into cheers, tears, and widespread flag-waving. As we looked onto our giant screen, we saw President Obama walk down those red-carpet steps with purpose and humility. I held my cell phone in the air as he took the oath of office so I could record the extraordinary moment. After the mix-up on the wording, Barack Obama finished reciting the oath, and the 1.5 millon freezing people burst with cheer and jubilation. Some were crying, some were laughing, but all were smiling. A new time had come, and for a moment, all were lost in a flood of patriotic spirit.

But President Obama brought us back down to earth with his somber, yet inspiring speech. Outlining the numerous challenges that face us, and acknowledging that things will

Watching the Inauguration With 1.5 million of my Closest friends

By Charlie Sarosy


on your doorstep

probably get worse before they get better, he communicated a message of resilience and courage. He called upon heroic moments in American history to remind us that even when it seems like there is no way to escape, there is always the chance to pick yourself up. The question is what will you do when you pick yourself up? Will America go down in defeat and accept becoming a historical parallel to the fall of Rome? Or will it fight back, and respond to its widespread challenges and become a responsible and admired global leader? President Obama made it clear that it will be the latter.

President Obama’s inaugural speech instilled a new sense of confidence and tenacity in the American people. His speech was strong, but showed humility. Inspiring, but realistic. It addressed the fact that America is at a significant turning point. One in which we can back down from our duties, or one in which we have the courage to pick ourselves up, dust off our shoulders, and restore American leadership. Any doubts that I had about America’s ability to recover from this crisis, any doubts about our ability to lead, any doubts about our ability to govern ourselves, were eased by President Obama’s message of pragmatism, bipartisanship and innova-tive leadership. Somehow he found a way to project a mes-sage of restrained confidence in the face of a pervasive crisis. His speech was exactly what I was looking for, and is exactly what the American people needed: a message of hope, but not false hope. Hope that is anchored in responsible action and a return to the principles of the American forefathers. President Obama is leading a new era, but he is doing so by returning to centuries-old ideals.

I will never forget his speech, or that day. And I’m sure that my 1.5 million compatriots will not either. my.

Charlie Sarosy is in his third year at Claremont McKenna College majoring in

political science and history. He was ASB President at Eastlake High in 2006 and

is currently completing an internship at Wexler Walker in Washington D.C.

Photo courtesy of: David Bergman • www.davidbergman.net ©2009

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12 my hometown february 2009

shook my head with disgust as I passed over it wondering who could be so inconsiderate and how long would that piece of trash sit there before someone would pick it up. Later that afternoon, I walked back to the school for pick up and noticed it was STILL there. This ‘walking over the trash’ thing continued for a few days as I passed by that same piece of trash again and again, each time grumbling louder to myself about it. One day at the peak of my frustra-tion, I remembered one of my Dad’s famous sayings: “No one is coming!” He would always say this to me when I’d find myself waiting for the cavalry or waiting for someone to swoop in and save the day. It meant, stop your whin-ing and do something about it.

No one is coming. As these words echoed in my mind, I was no longer disgusted about the trash. Instead, I was disgusted with myself for looking at such a small need in my immediate surroundings and walking right over it (over and over and over). What is wrong with me? Good grief! What was

in times like these, we have a ten-dency to focus in on ourselves and to stop giving to others. We have less

time and less money, so we stop donat-ing, volunteering and serving. We take more of a ‘step back and observe’ stance as if we are waiting for the cavalry to ride in and save the day. After all, if our new Administration or even our local leaders could just offer up the perfect recovery program, we could all get back to work and we’d have more to give, right?

Yet, we all know in our heart of hearts, that it’s really the other way around. The economy would more quickly recover if we’d all just put our focus on service to the community. The responsibility (and the recovery) lies within each of us. And, many hands make light work.

The other day I was walking my kids to school and I passed a piece of trash on the sidewalk. Rather than picking it up, I thought, “Look at that! Someone left trash on the sidewalk!” On my way back home, I noticed it again. I

a call to actcoMMunity serVice

By Karen Smith

I thinking? Did I want YOU to come pick it up? No! I would’ve felt bad if you had come over and picked it up instead of me. I guess I was just pouting because I didn’t want it dropped there in the first place. But, hey, it was already dropped. Was me walking over it a hun-dred times going to fix the initial prob-lem? Obviously, not.

When I think about the time and energy that I wasted during those days as I stepped over the piece of trash, I am amazed with myself. If I had just swooped down and picked it up the first time I saw it, I would have wiped out the moments of frustration I felt with each passing. In fact, I probably would have felt pretty darn proud of myself. Those little moments I spent frustrated would have instead been spent patting myself on the back for my good deed. Not to mention, who knows how many other people stepped over that same piece of trash wasting the same kind of thoughts that I did. I could have saved them all a bit of time and energy if I had been the one to take that first step.

Living in a community like this, you can’t help but have those moments where you get a little lazy about involve-ment. Once we realize our place in our community and whose ‘job’ it is to do what, we quickly brush things off thinking…. “Don’t worry, <so-and-

so> will take care of that.” Somehow we think we’re off the hook because we think someone else will take care of it…someone else will show up to volunteer…someone else will be there to make it happen…someone else has more time or money than me, let them do it!

My encounter with the piece of trash is a very simple example, but it is so indicative of our natural tendencies. What are we thinking during those moments we find ourselves looking at a little ‘trash’? When we’re standing right there, why do we wonder how long it will sit there before someone does something? Why do we immedi-ately try to find someone else to deal with it or to blame for it?

A little involvement is such a small thing to ask of ourselves. It’s not even about going an extra mile. It’s about taking one small movement from right where you are already standing. It’s about noticing what you are noticing and taking action on that thought. There are SO many little moments like this in our lives every single day – small, simple ways that we can make a difference….give back…contribute…influence…achieve…and with such little effort. (Sure, there are huge things, too, but let’s start with baby steps here!) continued on page 17...


Christian and his family recently

returned from a whirlwind trip to

Japan. The local boy lives with a life-

threatening condition called “tetral-

ogy of fallot” which indicates he

has four different problems with his

heart. In the earlier meeting, he had

told his Make-A-Wish volunteers that

he wanted to go to Japan to see Mt.

Fuji. Beginning with a limo ride from

his Chula Vista home to the airport in

Los Angeles, Christian and his family

enjoyed the experience of a lifetime.

“The whole trip was incredible,” said

Joyce, Christian’s mom. “We’re talk-

ing the flight, the hotel, everything

was paid for. Make-A-Wish even

provided money for Christian to pur-

chase souvenirs of his experience.

They didn’t cut any corners.”

According to Joyce, her son loves

everything from Japan. Like a lot

of kids, he is very interested in

Pokéman and loves to play video

games on the nintendo Wii. Christian

also enjoys Japanese anime. The

trip to Japan allowed him to experi-

ence many of his Japanese favorites

firsthand. With a Japanese Make-A-

Wish volunteer, one of 25,000 the

organization has around the world,

Like fairy godmothers, two women came

to the Buehrer family house in Otay

Ranch to visit nine-year-old Christian.

After meeting the family, the two pulled

Christian aside to speak with him alone.

Every Make-A-Wish Foundation wish

begins with the same question – If you

could go anywhere, meet anyone, be

anything or have anything you most

wanted, what would you wish for? It was

this question the two volunteers posed

to the local third grader.

wish to Visit JaPanlocal resident receiVes

By Mike Minjares


showing them around, Christian and

his family made the trek to Mt. Fuji,

were treated to Toyko Disneyland,

made a trip to “Electric City” and

tried all kinds of seafood dishes at

the world’s biggest fish market called

Tsukiji Fish Market. For Christian, one

of the most memorable experiences

was a trip to the Pokéman Center.

“They had everything you could

imagine Pokéman there,” Joyce said.

“Christian had a smile from ear-to-

ear the entire trip. We kept telling

him that he could do or have any-

thing he wanted. This vacation was

all about Christian. It was all

for him.”

The experience has left a lasting

impression on Joyce, who also suffers

from a heart condition. Seeing all

that Make-A-Wish did for her son and

her family, she says she now plans to

start volunteering for the organiza-

tion once her health allows it.

“You see these Make-A-Wish children

everywhere and it sounds like a good

cause,” she explained. “We benefitted

directly from people’s generosity. For

example, we learned the Sheraton

donated the hotel room we stayed in.

The experience made us all appreci-

ate the generosity of people so much

more. Christian is so appreciative

and wants people to know about

Make-A-Wish.”

According to its website, the Make-

A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes

of children with life-threatening

medical conditions to enrich the

human experience with

hope, strength and joy.

Since 1980, Make-A-Wish

has been making wishes

come true for children

just like Christian. Joyce

said Christian has one more wish

he hopes to fulfill. He plans on

becoming a pediatric cardiologist

so he can do for others what his

doctors have done for him. my.

To learn more about Make-A-Wish or to

volunteer to assist in granting a child’s wish,

contact the local chapter at (858) 707-9474

or go online at www.wishsandiego.org.

march 2009 my hometown

said Christian has one more wish

he hopes to fulfill. He plans on

contact the local chapter at (858) 707-9474

or go online at www.wishsandiego.org.


From the White House to our local schools, the call for ser-vice has gone out in communi-ties nationwide. All of us have been asked to do what we can to make sure that all members of our community, both near and far, weather these uncertain economic times. Sacrifices, big and small, will be required and have been required for some time. In our neigh-borhood, people have willingly accepted the challenge to step up and do something positive.

Jessica Speer moved into Otay Ranch last April with her husband and chil-dren. Like many residents she enjoys reading My Hometown each month and she said it gave her an idea on how she could personally add to the social capital so important to building com-munity. Together with good friends Leah Cole and nicole navarro, she has put together a team that is going to participate in the Breast Cancer 3-Day walk benefitting the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The walk is scheduled for november 20-22 right here in San Diego.

“There are three of us on our team right now and we would love to expand our team to those truly dedicated and committed to this,” Speer said. “We were inspired to do this walk by wanting to do something so bold for such a good cause. I watched my two older sisters as they dealt with the devastating loss of their mother to breast cancer. It’s just a cause that the three of us really believe in and we honestly feel like we can contribute to the cure.”

At 60 miles, the Breast Cancer 3-Day is recognized as the longest walk of its kind. In addition, each walker is required to raise a minimum of $2,300 to walk. Speer and her team have set a goal of $10,000. Although the event is

still eight months away, the local women have

already started work-ing toward the lofty

figure and will soon be holding local fundraising events. Speer said

they have received support from many local business-es, but could still use additional support. The team is also open to adding local residents wanting to step up and make a difference.

“Any residents who are interested in joining our team or anyone who would like to donate to help us reach our goal are more than wel-come to contact me,” Speer said. “If anyone would like for us to pin a ribbon donning the name of someone they love during our walk, please email us. We would love to keep their loved ones in our thoughts and prayers with every step.” my.

To support Speer’s efforts, contact this dedicated

Chula Vista citizen at JBATTEN21@yahoo.

com. For more information on the Breast Cancer

3-Day walk, please visit the event’s website at

www.the3day.org. My Hometown wishes Speer

and her team all the best as they provide a

great example of active participation in one’s

community.

reSIDeNTS TeAm UP To fIGhT BreAST CANCerFrom the White House to our local schools, the call for ser-vice has gone out in communi-ties nationwide. All of us have been asked to do what we can to make sure that all members of our community, both near and far, weather these uncertain economic times. Sacrifices, big economic times. Sacrifices, big and small, will be required and have been required for some time. In our neigh-borhood, people have willingly accepted the challenge to step up and do something

At 60 miles, the Breast Cancer 3-Day is recognized as the longest walk of its kind. In addition, each walker is required to raise a minimum of $2,300 to walk. Speer and her team have set a goal of $10,000. Although the event is Although the event is

still eight months away, the local women have

already started work-ing toward the lofty

figure and will soon be holding local fundraising events. Speer said

they have received

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I’ll admit after a long, hard day, it’s a lot easier to sit at home, watch TV and pray for the economy to recover. “I’m tired. I’m broke. It’s not my responsibil-ity. Let someone else take the lead.” But, how is that working out for you? Are those things that are so critically impor-tant to you magically getting done? Probably not…and why? Because YOU are the one to make it happen. You. No one is coming.

Don’t get me wrong about the “No one is coming” thing, though. You can’t take the saying too literally. “No one is coming” doesn’t mean to say you’re in it all alone. It just means YOU need to take the step. As soon as you take that step, you’ll realize you’re not alone in the effort at all. There are people who are eager to come and help you. People are looking for ways to get involved. They WANT to rally behind you and help the cause. The minute you step up and point to the goal, people will begin asking how they can help. At first

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it will only be a person or two, but the momentum will build and eventually you’ll have your own entourage.

So, what is your piece of trash? Is there something you are continually walking over…wondering who is com-ing? Stop right now and pick it up. Take the action. Watch what happens. You don’t have to tackle a big issue and save the entire world, but one small, simple action, might just change someone’s life

forever. If we all commit to taking action on that one little need we see, we will see big change both immediately and for the future.

There are plenty of ways to get involved in our community and to make a difference. You don’t have to have all the money or the time, you just have to notice the need. From there, things start to come together and that’s what build-ing community is all about. my.


lifestyle

PLAnT A GARDEn – Both of my kids have been asking for years for us to make use of this barren patch of ground in our backyard. Shaped like a semi-circle, this dirt area

sits like a cutout up against our fence, just off the grass and in a corner that gets plenty of sun. Their request comes as no surprise, really, since at each of their schools they have had gardens for years.

When my daughter Mariana was in kindergarten, her class had a very nice garden right outside their classroom. Maintained by a parent volunteer, the garden served as a wonderful teach-ing tool for my daughter’s teacher Ms. Pietryk. For years, Ms. Pietryk has had her students working the soil, planting seeds, watering and weeding as part of their daily lessons. According to Ms.

By Karen Smith

darkness. It is the one aspect of the winter that I just never adjust to. The abundance of

sunlight and the opportunity to bask in it is what draws many out west. Yet in the winter I am often waking up in the dark, heading to work and then returning home just as the sun sets and night falls. I feel like I’ve missed the whole day. My preference for sun means that each spring I anxiously look forward to the start of Daylight Saving Time (DST). It is that grand day when most of us push our clocks forward to gain an extra hour of sun-light. This year the additional sun hour will begin on Sunday, March 8 and will run until November 1.

So, the question now arises – what to do with that extra hour of sunlight we’ll have? Coming home from work while there is still substantial daylight means a number of outdoor pursuits become available. Just because the original intent involved energy con-servation doesn’t mean we have to be practical about this change. The hour is yours and the options are many. Here are just a few to consider:

let the sunshine inthis year the additional sun hour will begin on sunday, March 8

and will run until november 1. so, the question now arises –

what to do with that extra hour of sunlight we’ll have?

Pietryk, there are lessons being taught in the work.

“Through the garden experience, students learn about the life cycle of plants,” she explained. “It is actu-ally part of their life science standard, but the garden represents a hands-on approach to teaching that content. There is a sense of pride for the chil-dren when they see the results of their efforts.”

When my son Andrew was in pre-school, the lessons also involved illus-trating the life cycle of plants, but with several additional elements important for four and five year olds.

“This is a flower garden so it relates more to helping the children be more caring of living things especially since they have a big stake in the success of the garden,” Lee Ann Chavez, a pre-school Master Teacher, said. “After we planted seeds, some of the children pulled up chairs to watch the flowers grow. One asked me, ‘Why isn’t the sun working to make the sunflowers grow?’ So the idea of time is a relative one still to some of them.”

let the sunshine in

february 2009 my hometown 19


DAYLIGHT SAVInGS

955 Lane Avenue, Suite 201 1055 Tierra Del Rey, Suite C Chula Vista, CA 91914 Chula Vista, CA 91910 Phone: (619) 421-9521 Phone: (619) 656-5102

Fax: (619) 421-9568 Fax: (619) 656-5103

www.MOPTINC.com

Services: Physical Therapy Massage Therapy

Wellness Programs Speed & Agility Training

Personal Training

Providing quality Therapy to the South Bay communities.

LITTLE LEAGuE BASEBALL/SOFTBALL – The month of March not only marks the start of major

league spring train-ing in warm weather spots across the county. It also means the time has come for Little League baseball and softball fields to be littered with kids of all ages swinging for the fences, dreaming of the day they connect with the winning hit. With an extra hour of sunlight, prac-tices and games can be played without lights. Why not stop by the local field and take in a game and be reminded why baseball is called “America’s Pastime.” There are opportunities to coach, umpire or tend the fields. If you’re not athletically inclined, you can still support the local league by buying a sweet treat at the snack bar.

My son Andrew’s T-ball experience a couple years ago set the tone for our family’s continued involvement the last few years. Starting the season not knowing how to grip a bat, or which fingers to stick in which holes in the glove or which direction to run after swinging, Drew grew into a pretty good

ball player. Over the years, we’ve added Mariana’s fast-pitch softball activities to our busy family calendar. In both instances, we have found coaches eager to apply a positive approach.

Drew’s T-ball coach stressed the importance of keeping things fun. “Coach Shawn” emphasized focus-ing on the positive growth kids make while participating in sports and how, at this age particularly, they look to their parents for guidance on how to react to success and failure. He made us promise that we’d watch a more advanced league game and not become a parent who has lost sight of what really is important – the kids’ growth and enjoyment. To find your local little league baseball or softball organiza-tion, go to www.littleleague.org.

ExPLORE A BIKE TRAIL – Tune up the Mountain Bike and venture off the beaten path. Stationary bikes

are poor substitutes for the real thing. I know. I have one in my family room. Granted, they

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DAYLIGHT SAVInGS

make for great exercise, keep muscles going when rain makes the road more hazardous and function fine during the day or night. But with an extra hour of sunlight at our disposal, there is now time for a ride through the neighborhood or nearby park. Bike clubs exist in cities big and small and most happily welcome new members of varying abilities and experience. For the truly adventurous, opportu-nities exist to download a bike trail and head out on your own. If your bike has gathered dust and cobwebs sitting or hanging in the garage, it is important that you take it to a local bike shop and have it checked out, making sure the brakes work, the tires are properly inflated and that the seat and handle bars are at the right height.

WALK– For those who like to take their activity at a slower pace,

extended Daylight Saving Time allows for a great chance to walk the commu-nity safely. Walking can be a great low-impact fitness activity and can turn into a social event in our neighbor-hoods. On your walk make it a point to meet neighbors, take a break by the community fountain or neighborhood park and enjoy the opportunity to see something new. You’ll be surprised how different even the most familiar places and landmarks look when you stroll rather than power by in an effort to squeeze some exercise in the dark. With an extra hour of sunlight, more

time is available to take in the beauty that surrounds us.

The start of Daylight Saving Time is also a good time to take care of one important indoor function. Fire depart-ments encourage people to change the battery in their home smoke detectors when they change their clocks. It is estimated that more than 90 percent of U.S. homes have smoke detectors, but of these, one-third have dead or missing batteries. Before you head out to enjoy that extra hour of sun we are being given, take a minute or two to make sure your emergency equipment at home is ready to do its job. After that you can check off something prac-tical and dive into something fun, and there is no shortage of sun-drenched activities to enjoy in our communities. Goodbye winter, it’s time to let the sun shine in. my.

SCHOOL nEWSMARCH 2009

school news


Dwayne Wade plays a promi-nent role on the court for the

Miami Heat of the National Basketball Association. He has led his team to the NBA Championship and sparked the U.S. to the gold medal in men’s basket-ball at last summer’s Olympic Games. The professional basketball player is also making a difference off the court. This year Wade is featured in Cartoon Network’s “National Recess Week.” The national campaign is being celebrated March 2-6 and several local schools are participating, including Arroyo Vista Charter School in EastLake.

Throughout the Chula Vista Elementary School District schools are using the Building Better Bodies physical education curriculum to help kids understand the importance of an active lifestyle and the role physical fitness plays in their lives. According to Sharon Hillidge, a resource teacher with the Chula Vista School District, the BBB curriculum is aligned with the California Physical Education Content Standards. At the primary level, the goal of the program is to identify age appro-priate motor skills and fitness activi-ties as well as health information that can be easily implemented into grade level physical education programs. The program offers teachers innovative solu-tions for physical education instruction.

“One of our goals is to provide a user-friendly program for teachers that will enhance elementary students’ understanding about how to build and keep their bodies healthy,” Hillidge said.

The BBB curriculum was introduced to the district through a pilot project in 2005. Two years later, approximately 400 fourth, fifth and sixth-grade teachers, principals and their related staff from 40 district schools took part in staff development and program implementa-tion.

“BBB’s continued success is due directly to the willingness of grade level teachers to work together to implement a physical education program that best meets the needs of all their students, including those with special needs,” Hillidge said.

At Olympian High in the Sweetwater Union High School District, the new state standards have meant the devel-opment of a physical education cur-riculum less focused on team sports

school Pe Programs KeeP Kids movingand more on individual activities and personal responsibility. Lisa Hernandez, a physical education teacher at the east Chula Vista school, estimates that about 650 students (nearly half the enroll-ment) take part in some form of PE at Olympian. All ninth-grade students are working on individual fitness plans that prepare them for the state mandated FITNESSGRAM. The test uses Healthy Fitness Zones standards to evaluate a student’s fitness performance on activi-ties such as walking, running, pull-ups, push-ups and stretching.

“We are definitely not using the tra-ditional PE program,” Hernandez said. “The students are doing something different each day. During the week, we have them focused on cardio work, power stretching, a sports day and then another activity. We want to emphasize to them that you don’t have to be an athlete to be healthy. We want to find what it is that will keep them moving.”

In addition to physical activity, the PE curriculum at Olympian also includes aspects of the school’s academic literacy program. Students in physical educa-tion classes receive printed information about nutrition and review health-related articles. Hernandez, who has been at the school since it opened three years ago, hopes to add additional elec-tive sections of aerobics and dance to the strength training option now avail-able. The goal is to encourage students to remain active for life. It seems to be working.

“I’ve noticed that even those students that pass the FITNESSGRAM are still remaining active,” she said. “They tell me they stretch every day or get out and walk. Some have even said being active has helped them with their studies.” my.

Key Upcoming District-wide Dates:

Year-round Schools Spring Break: March 23-April 10

Traditional Schools Spring Break: April 6-10

Principal For a Day: April 16

Junior Achievement Bowl-a-� on: April 25

Masonic Awards: April 30

Remember, the 2009-10 School Year Starts July 27, 2009 for all District schools in the Chula Vista Elementary School District.*

*Check with your child’s charter school for charter school starting dates.

Chula Vista Elementary School District 84 East J Street, Chula Vista, CA 91910

An 811 API School District

Each Child Is An Individual of Great Worth


neighbor spotlight

If it’s Wednesday, it must be “Family Game Night” at the Canizales house. Every Wednesday, this Otay Ranch fam-ily of six gathers together for an evening of comfort food,

board games and some “American Idol” watching. For several years now, the members of the Canizales household have made it a point to hold this one night a week just for each other. With four children and all of them having extra curric-ular activities they enjoy, Leticia, or Lety, and husband Cesar value the weekly game night as a chance for the family to re-connect with one another.

“Everyone has hectic schedules nowadays,” said Lety. “This is the one evening we know we are going to sit down as a fam-ily and be together.”

The Canizales family came to the Otay Ranch area about six years ago. Both Cesar and Lety grew up in Chula Vista and wanted to stay local as they raised a family. They graduated from Chula Vista High School, though in different years, and then San Diego State University. The two current educators – Lety teaches kindergarten and Cesar works for the Sweetwater School District as a safe schools program manager – met at Cesar’s sister’s SDSU graduation party. Lety had been friends with his sister since junior high, but had never met Cesar.

Like their parents, the four Canizales children are active members of the local community. The oldest, Vanessa, is a student at Southwestern Community College. The future history teacher has a passion for fashion and dance and has

School PE ProgramS KEEP KidS moving

The ShILLIng FamILy

For nearly 45 minutes, stepsisters Alissa and Jada Shilling worked quietly on homework at the kitchen table as their parents, Brandee and Chris, met with a visitor at their

house. The two young girls kept right on working even as they heard their names mentioned numerous times throughout the conversation. Once the interview ended, however, the sisters could hold their tongues no longer. With bright and smiling faces, they greeted this visitor and thanked him for choosing their family as the resident spotlight for My Hometown maga-zine. They talked excitedly about what they wore for the photo shoot, describing their dresses in perfect detail. Before the visi-tor could leave, eight-year-old Alissa needed to make one addi-tional comment.

“And thank you Mom and Dad for saying such nice things about us,” she said as her parents escorted their guest to the door.

The Shillings have lived in EastLake for about a year now, but have deep roots in the local and larger Chula Vista community. Brandee was born in San Diego and grew up in the South Bay, graduating from Montgomery High School. For Chris, Chula Vista has always been his home. The current boys’ basketball coach at High Tech High (Chula Vista) attended Castle Park and Southwestern Community College. After living in other areas, the two blended their families together and have created a warm and welcoming home in an EastLake neighborhood.

“We wanted a community that was special and one that felt like a community,” Brandee said. “When we moved here we knew the kids would be going to good schools and be more involved in a great community. We love the neighbor-hood and feel so comfortable here. The girls are also close to their cousins since my brother and sister-in-law live next door.”

In addition to his duties coaching basketball, Chris also works as the director of public safety at the Otay Ranch Town Center. But having played basketball for 20 years, including in high school and college, it is easy to see where his passion lies.

“This is the first year for the team,” he said. “The team’s goal is to learn and grow in order to be able to compete against the other schools. We’re trying to teach them what leadership is. I tell them they need to work hard and show leadership by helping others. With that in mind, it is impor-tant for me to be out in the community and be a leader.”

Brandee has also recently taken steps to follow her dream and do something she enjoys. Together with her husband, Brandee is opening a catering business. “Irresistible Catering” will specialize in soul food and gourmet dishes.

“Cooking is my joy and I’m always in the kitchen cooking something,” Brandee said. “It’s been a dream of mine to own a catering business. As we tell the girls, you never give up on your dreams.” my.

Photo Courtesy of:

Jessica Fraser (619) 339-1847

www.momentsbyjessica.com


on your doorstep

It is that grand day when most of us push our clocks forward to gain an extra hour of sunlight. This year the additional sun hour will begin on Sunday, March 8 and will run until november 1.

mar 4cVesd schools begin accepting kindergarten registration packets for ‘09-10 school year; www.cvesd.org; (619) 425-9600x1570

March 2009

mar 7 8th annual kiwanis wine

tasting eVent; norman Park Center on F St.; $25 per person/$50 per cou-ple; For tickets call Chris Altbaum (619) 422-1123

mar 6-8 cyt’s Presentation

of disney’s “alice

in wonderland” at Kassebaum Theater, Mater Dei High School, 1571 Magdalena Ave; www.cyt.org or (619) 588-0206 for showtimes

mar 14 MathnasiuM grand

oPening; 12-2p.m.; 884 Eastlake Parkway, Suite 1623 in the Village Walk Center of EastLake sPring craft workshoP 9:30a.m.-12noon and 1-3:30p.m., ages 5-16; Montevalle Recreation Center, 840 Duncan Ranch Rd, $20 residents and $25 non-residents; (619) 691-5269

free Music clinic; 1-5pm at neisha’s Dance Academy, 870 Jetty Lane; reservations required (619) 585-1133

mar 15 st. Patrick’s afternoon tea 2-4p.m., Bonita Museum and Cultural Center, 4355 Bonita Rd, Bonita, 91902; $30 donation suggested; To make reservations call Glennalie (619) 479-9607 or Ernie (619) 421-6662

mar 10 Mayor cox’s state of the

city address; 6p.m., Council Chambers City Hall, 276 Fourth Avenue; www.chulavistaca.gov

mar 19 foreclosure workshoP

with attorney J. alan

enochs; 6:30pm at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 580 Hilltop Drive; (619) 694-4693

mar 13 tutti frutti grand

oPening – 2110 Birch Rd. #105, The Marketplace in Windingwalk

mar 22 best dog coMPetition 1p.m at PETCO in the Village Walk Center in EastLake; Register in store or by calling (619) 397-6809

OuT AnD ABOuT

coMMunity clubs? eVents? Meetings?

If you have something you’d like us to add to the Community Calendar, contact [email protected] or (800) 497-1309 x710

Please note eVents and tiMes are subJect to change.

mar 8

mar 28 cesar e. chaVez MeMorial

Parade & coMMunity

celebration; Route begins in Sherman Heights (25th & J Street); Parade – 10a.m.-12 noon. Community Celebration – 12 noon to 4p.m.; www.sdchavezcommittee.info

sPring craft workshoP 9:30a.m.-12noon and 1-3:30p.m., ages 6-15; Heritage Community Center, 1381 E. Palomar St.; $20 residents and $25 non-resi-dents; (619) 421-7032 Mary JaMes in concert 7p.m.; new Hope Community Church, 2720 Olympic Parkway; Admission $5; (619) 600-4160 or http://mary-james.com

mar 8 daylight saVings

tiMe begins

daylight saVing tiMe


giving back to the community comes naturally for doc-tors John Pack and Beverly Bianes. Together with their

staff at Pack & Bianes Vision Care, the couple have served meals at Father Joe’s Village, sponsored scholarships for local students, hosted a local art show and coordinated a blanket drive to benefit victims of domestic abuse and their children. Their connection to this area goes far beyond the full range of optometry services they provide. It is a personal calling they share to be involved in building a stronger community.

“I grew up in this area and went to Montgomery High School,” Dr. Bianes shared. “After finishing optometry school, I wanted to come back to my city. It is nice to be able to show people in the South Bay that you can have goals, achieve them and come back and share your knowledge with the commu-nity.”

The couple met in optometry school in Fullerton. They both received their Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern California College of Optometry in 1991. Since Dr. Pack did not feel a strong tie to the metropolitan big city, he admits he was more than willing to join his wife and move south.

“I sensed in Beverly a deep-rooted desire to return to her hometown,” Dr. Pack remembered. “I felt that the South Bay community was an ideal location to start our practice partly because I’m fluent in Spanish. With Beverly’s ties and commit-ment to the area and my willingness to follow my bride, we came here.”

The two opened their practice in National City in 1992, expanding to Chula Vista in 1994. With the growth of their family, the practice consolidated in 1999 to just the Terra Nova location. About two years ago they decided to expand again, this time in EastLake. Even with the second location, the cou-ple remains committed to their family.

“There is always juggling with the kids’ sporting events and school functions,” Dr. Pack said. “But one thing we have always placed first and foremost is our family. This philosophy is shared with our staff members as well. We love our business and we love our jobs, but we love our family even more and we keep that a priority.”

As optometrists, Drs. Pack and Bianes focus on the visual system and on the health of the eyes. Their practice offers comprehensive exams, glasses and contact lens fittings, vision therapy and co-management for lasik surgery. Drs. Pack and Bianes, along with their associate Dr. Judi-Anne Perez, also work with the Chula Vista School District to help kids with visual difficulties.

“We’ve practiced in this community for about 17 years and we live here as well,” Dr. Bianes said. “We didn’t just want to have a business in the community, we wanted to be part of the community.” my.

Pack & Bianes Vision Care

890 Eastlake Parkway, Ste. 102, Chula Vista 91914;

(619) 216-3937; www.packandbianesvision.com

Pack & BIaneS VISIon carePhoto Courtesy of:

Schafer Photography

www.schaferphotography.net

(619) 261-0471

SPIRITUAL

EastLake Church-relevant messages, great kids’ programs, 1 hour

services, rockin’ music. Just some of the great things you can expect each

weekend at EastLake Church. 2355 Otay Lakes Road

(619) 421-4100 www.eastlakechurch.com

WELL BEING

Medical care for the whole family in a professional and caring atmosphere.

Pediatrics, Adolescents, Adults, Seniors, Womens’ Health, Physicals for DMV, Sports, Immigration. We

take a wide variety of plans i.e. HMO, PPO, Tricare, Senior Plans, Private

Pay. Same day appointments available. Dr. Maria Oseguera and Dr. Edward

Shoemaker. Hablamos Espanol.

(619) 946-4073 [email protected]

WELL BEING

We at Salt Family Chiropractic are hon-ored to serve the EastLake Community. Drs. Mark and Celeste Salt along with

Dr. Greg Kaye bring 30 years com-bined experience. We specialize in

being a wellness clinic addressing your chiropractic needs, along with offering

nutritional programs and products. Massage is also available Wednesdays,

Fridays and Saturdays

(619) 426-2225 www.saltchiro.com

WELL BEING

We are Eastlake’s first ATA Extreme Martial Arts program! We are a

family-oriented facility dedicated to the principles of care, honor, integrity

and discipline-all in a fun, exciting atmosphere! Whatever your goals may

be, our World Champion, certified instructors and next-generation devel-

opment programs will exceed your expectations!

(619) 421-1282 www.prideata.com

EDUCATION

Bonita Country Day School is a highly acclaimed private school teachingstudents how to think, not what to

think. Small classes allow individualattention in Montessori Preschool &Kindergarten – Grade 5. BilingualProgram, Art & Music are included

with a superior academic curriculum.

(619) 656-0141 www.bonitacountryday.org

BONITA COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

WELL BEING

Are you suffering from severe, chronic, disc related back or neck

pain? Looking for a medically proven, non-surgical, non-invasive, drugless

solution? The South Coast Spine Center may have the treatment you are

looking for! Find out if you qualify for our revolutionary treatment.

Call For Your FREE Consultation Today!

(619) 472-2225www.southcoastspine.com

Get Lasting Pain Relief Now!

SPIRITUAL

Young Church, Young People, Fresh Faith.

Now meeting on Sundays at 10:00am at Olympian High School in Otay Ranch, 1925 Magdalena Ave.,

91913. Listen and preview us online.

(619) 977-9277 www.sevensdchurch.com

FLEXIBLE LOVING CHILDCARE-12 months of live-in childcare by an experienced, carefully screened and trained au pair. Select from a diverse

group of profiles. Approximately $316 per week per family. U.S. Government approved cultural

exchange program. CHI has been a trusted name in bringing people

together for nearly thirty years!

(619) 934-6234 www.chiaupairusa.org

CHILD DEVELOPMENT

CULTURAL HOMESTAYINTERNATIONAL

-a non-profit educational exchange program

WELL BEING

Poses Yoga is a boutique studio locat-ed in the heart of EastLake offering traditional yoga instruction for all

levels in an intimate setting. We carry the latest in yoga clothing and acces-sories to support your practice, and

our studio is staffed by highly trained, certified, and nurturing instructors

committed to guide you in your jour-ney of transformation and wellness.

(619) 591-YOGA www.poses-yoga.com

SPIRITUALSPIRITUAL WELL BEINGSPIRITUALSPIRITUAL SPIRITUAL

MY HOMETOWn MERCADO

DENTAL

We at South Bay Pediatric Dental Group believe that through regular dental visits, children and their par-

ents can create a solid foundation for their oral health that will last a life-

time. Our practice specializes in treat-ing infants, children and adolescents in a caring and safe environment. We welcome those patients who have spe-cial medical needs or may simply be

anxious about dental treatment.

(619) 216-1100 www.sbpdg.com

South BayPediatric Dental Group

LEGAL

Eastlake Lawyers offers quality, experienced legal services right here in EastLake. The three law

offices of Eric W. Johnson, Jeffrey D. Poindexter, and J. Alan Enochs pro-vide advice in the areas of wills and trusts, business disputes, real estate matters, foreclosure, bankruptcy and most other legal issues you may find

yourself confronting. Contact us today for a free consultation.

(619) 651-7600www.eastlakelawyers.com

CREATIVE

Deb’s Creative Services offers custom designed wall murals for

children and babies rooms. This is a fun way to put your child’s interests on their walls. Slideshows of family memories, great for birthdays and

anniversaries. Graphic design needs such as baby announcements and invitations. All services

reasonably priced.

(619) 397-3554 www.debscreativecontainers.com

PROPERTY MANAGMENT

“Providing property owners with out-standing, reliable service and maxi-mizing real estate investments with

the greatest peace of mind.” Praecelsus Property Management is Chula Vista’s premier property man-

agement company. Call or click today to speak with one of our management professionals and request a FREE bro-

chure or FREE Property Analysis!

(619) 934-9684 www.PraeHomes.com

DENTAL

At Sunbow Family Dentistry, we get to know our clients and treat them with personalized care. Dr. Nick Addario

and his expert team have been serving the Otay Ranch and EastLake areas

for 7 years. We also provide cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign® orthodontics and

sedation dentistry. Call us for a FREE consultation.

(619) 656-1788 www.sunbowdentistry.com

DENTAL PROPERTY MANAGMENTDENTALDENTAL

MY HOMETOWN MERCADO

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MARCH 2009

ALSO INSIDE

RESIDENTS TEAM

UP TO FIGHT

BREAST

CANCER

HOW THE ACTIONS

OF OTHERS

MAKE A DREAM

COME TRUE

MEET CHRISTIAN...

LSO INSIDE

RESIDENTS TEAM

UP TO FIGHT

BREAST

CANCER

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: PACK & BAINES VISION CARE | RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT: SHILING FAMILY

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Jump in and get involved! If you’d like to submit an article or story, just email or call with your idea. We can’t wait to help you share your favorite neighbor-hood resource, brag on your child’s accomplishment, applaud a community member, or announce a neighborhood event. Whether it’s just for your neighborhood or for the entire community, these pages are for you.

My Hometown Mercado is

your community resource. Each month,

this section features businesses who

are a part of your community and dedi-

cated to the communities of Otay Ranch

and Eastlake – bringing the services

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FountainMediaMediaMediaMediaGroup inc.

publications that build community

(800) 497-1309 x710 www.myhometowneastlake.com

Fountain Media Group, Inc

PO Box 2122, San Marcos, CA 92079

(800) 497-1309 x710
