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WE LOVE A PARADE!
The historic Starlight Parade is coming to Chula Vista on Saturday, December 5, and is expected to draw thousands of people to Third Avenue. Can you believe that snow is in the forecast for Chula Vista that day? Or, a snow hill to be exact! Kids of all ages can slide down the snow hill in Memorial Park - free of charge - between noon and 4 p.m.
Before the parade, Third Avenue Village Association (TAVA) is hosting the Holiday in the Village festival from noon to 4 p.m. in Memorial Park and at participating merchants along Third Avenue. Then pick your spot along the west side of Third Avenue between H and E Streets for the Starlight Parade which begins at 6 p.m. Some highlights of the day include: * Have fun sliding down the snow hill
* Hear your favorite holiday music
* Tell Santa if you've been naughty or nice
* Check out holiday discounts and promotions at participating Third Avenue merchants
* Marvel at the festive floats, school bands, dance performers, and more in the Starlight Parade
* Grab a tasty treat at the Snack Alley on Park Way CLICK HERE for more information about the parade and parking details.
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EL NIŅO PREPARATIONS
We previously reported that the City has been proactively preparing for the upcoming El Niņo rainfalls predicted this winter. Some of those efforts include  storm drain channels cleared of debris, damaged and diseased trees have been removed, and a new sand bag machine has been purchased. What can you do to prepare? Glad you asked! Chula Vista Fire Department suggests the following: Create a family emergency kit consisting of:* Food and water to last three to seven days (don't forget the pets!) * Medication and a first aid kit * Extra clothing and sturdy shoes * Battery powered radios, lanterns and flashbulbs - with extra batteries * Tools such as duct tape, fire extinguisher, shovel, gloves, tarps, wrench * Cash and important papers
Prepare your home and property:
* Clean out and remove debris from gutters and drains; fix leaks now
* Check trees and landscaping and prune as needed
* Remove or cover securely all patio furniture
* Check that windows are properly closed; paint trim if needed to avoid dry rot
* Don't forget your auto! Check brakes, tires, battery and wipers
* Chula Vista residents can obtain 10 free sand bags at the John L. Lippitt Public Works Center, 1800 Maxwell Road (off Main Street). The distribution area is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; please bring proof of residency. This is the only sand bag distribution center in the City.
In a weather emergency:
* Avoid areas subject to flooding such as storm drains, rivers and streams
* If driving, stay focused and alert; use pre-planned alternative routes from home and work if necessary
* Never drive through flowing water - especially under freeway overpasses and in low lying areas and do not try to walk or swim across moving water in flooded areas
* Monitor local TV and radio for emergency weather information, and pay close attention to flood reports and road closures
* Be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation is ordered
* Be aware of downed power lines and do not touch them. Call 9-1-1 to report any downed lines.
For more information on how you can prepare, go to Ready San Diego, CLICK HERE, or San Diego County Office of Emergency Services, CLICK HERE. You can also register to receive disaster information and emergency notifications directly to your cell phone at Alert San Diego, CLICK HERE.
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WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING
Currently, police officers are under increasing public scrutiny. At the same time, being professional and compassionate, they must uphold the laws of this country. We may not always like the laws they enforce, but it is simply their job to do so. Perhaps understanding what exactly Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) experiences on a regular night will enhance your understanding of our police officers and their responsibilities.
Chula Vista ranks among one of the safest cities in the nation which is attributed in part to the work of our police department. While CVPD officers are committed to keeping our community safe, a special group works the night duty while you are comfortably sleeping. Called the "Six Shift," they begin their work week at 6:30 p.m.  until 7 a.m. each Friday, Saturday and Sunday plus an additional Thursday once a month. This squad of dedicated men and women are the ones patrolling Chula Vista, keeping our city safe and sound during the night when stores are closed, bars have emptied and it's dark and cold. On a recent Friday night, part of one patrol officer's shift consisted of: 6:30 p.m. Roll Call: The first order of duty for every shift is roll call just like when you were in school! At this meeting, information is shared of major instances that occurred during the last 24 hours including watching for missing persons and specific suspects. Officers are then assigned their area for the night. Chula Vista is divided into four CVPD sectors: two west of I-805 and two east of I-805. 7 p.m. Equipment and Vehicle: Each officer is assigned a police vehicle for the shift. By the time the night shift officers get in their vehicles, they have seen many hours of constant use by the previous shifts. Each officer is responsible for thoroughly checking the vehicle making sure everything is in working order and that they have all supplies they may need (caution tape, evidence bags, etc.). 8 and 8:30 p.m. The first call of the night for this officer is a report of shop-lifting at a local department store. After talking to store security and viewing video, the officers leave to look for the suspects. But suddenly, Dispatch issues a Priority call sending all local patrols to the trolley station for an uncooperative person under the influence. The situation quickly escalates as the suspect gets combative and verbally assaults the officers who have their body worn cameras rolling and continue to maintain their composure. The suspect is handcuffed and taken away. 10 p.m. CVPD Dispatch reports a domestic violence situation which several officers respond to. Sadly, domestic violence is the largest number of calls coming to CVPD and this is a repeat location. Maintaining a calm, non-threatening manner, the officers explain various options to the residents and no arrests are made. 11:30 p.m. A vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed is reported on Broadway. Officers follow and pull the driver over. He is given a field sobriety test and a field breathalyzer test and fails - at twice the legal limit! Off to jail for this driver. 12:15 a.m. Seeing a car driving with no headlights on with another car following it, the officer follows when suddenly, the second car pulls a U-turn right in front of the police vehicle! On come the patrol vehicle lights and the driver pulls over. After making sure the driver was not DUI, he receives a ticket for one open container of alcohol, parks his car and walks away.  12:45 a.m. While patrolling a strip mall that has issues with homeless, a man is spotted sitting on the sidewalk. As they always do, CVPD officers tell the homeless what services are available to them. This man did not want the help offered and was asked to leave the area. 1:15 a.m. Numerous officers respond to the second domestic violence call of the night involving several people. After questioning all parties involved, CVPD officers determine there was no need for any arrests. 2:30 a.m. Arriving at a local night club, officers learn a patron had pulled a knife on a security officer and then fled the scene. A report is filed after interviewing the staff and witnesses. The suspect does not return. 2:50 a.m. Another officer calls for back up after he was flagged down by a pedestrian on the street. A man is searching for his adult daughter who had been drinking. Officers patrol the area but do not find the daughter. And the night goes on. More calls come in and the Six Shift responds. The officers are dedicated, disciplined and considerate, with integrity and a big heart.
How can you help the CVPD, you ask? Many ways....next time the Citizens Police Academy has classes, sign up to attend; teach young children to respect police and explain to them that officers are here to help; or there are several volunteer opportunities such as the Explorer Program, Senior Volunteer Program, and general volunteers to assist in the property room, police records, crime lab and others. And monetary donations are always welcomed to the CVPD Foundation, CLICK HERE. Sleep well, Chula Vista!
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MAYOR AT U.N. CONFERENCE
Chula Vista Mayor Mary Casillas Salas is attending the United Nations Climate Conference, also referred to as the Conference of Parties (COP21) in Paris. This is a great opportunity to spotlight the local actions the City of Chula Vista has been taking to fight climate change on a global stage.
The mayor is participating as part of the Local Climate Leaders Circle which consists of 12 mayors from cities who are climate champions across the nation. The World Wildlife Fund provided travel funds to allow the Mayors to attend the U.N. conference. Chula Vista has a long history of taking actions to fight climate change. To learn more, CLICK HERE.
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DID YOU KNOW...
... City recreation centers will have special open hours and three centers will have camps offered during the winter school break. Check your local center for open hours and to view the camps offered beginning January 4. All City offices and facilities will be closed December 25 and January 1.
...you can wipe away any overdue fines at the Chula Vista Public Library while helping those in need during its Food for Fines campaign. Bring non-perishable food items to any library branch until December 24 and overdue fines will be waived at the rate of $1 per item. Those who do not owe fines are also encouraged to donate. Suggested items include canned vegetables, soup, tuna and dried pasta. A maximum of $10 in library fines per library card will be waived. All donations will benefit South Bay Community Services for local families.
... Adopt a Tiny Elf is being promoted through December at the Chula Vista Animal Care  Facility (ACF). Adopt a Chihuahua this month and receive two tickets to SeaWorld San Diego and a tote full of goodies for your new family member! Plus the adoption fee is only $25 (regularly $75). Visit the ACF at 130 Beyer Way, Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
...A re-opening and dedication of the Salt Creek Soccer Arena, 2710 Otay Lakes Road, was held on November 21. For available open play times or rental information, please CLICK HERE.
... Chula Vista Police officers recently received small plastic crosses made by an eight-year old girl from Illinois. Arianna Nichols sent the colorful beaded crosses to police officers and firefighters across the nation to "protect them and keep them safe." She has made more than 5,600 crosses and sent them to 84 departments across 30 states. CVPD keep the crosses on their desks, in their pockets, wallets and behind their protective vests and are very appreciative of Arianna's kind gesture.
 ...Aquatics is offering an American Red Cross Lifeguard Training during winter break for ages 16 and over. Held at Parkway Aquatic Center, 385 Park Way, classes begin December 21 and registration is now open at either City Aquatic Center or online, CLICK HERE. Fee is $120 and participants will receive the necessary certifications for potential employment with the City as a Lifeguard I.
...congratulations to our Finance Department for receiving the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. The award, which our City has received nine times, is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting.
... energy efficient LED lighting will again light up Chula Vista's Civic Center complex over the holidays at no cost to the City. The display featuring more than 250 light strands on buildings and palm trees is part of an effort to encourage residents and businesses to make the switch to the newer and safer energy saving  technology. By exchanging their traditional incandescent holiday lights for LED (Light Emitting Dioxide) lighting strands, homeowners can reduce energy costs by up to 90 percent. Also, LEDs last more than 10 times longer than conventional lights, produce a brighter light, and have cooler operating temperatures. Chula Vista holiday lights and installation are fully funded through the City's Local Government Partnership with San Diego Gas & Electric and the California Public Utilities Commission. The partnership has allowed the City to upgrade its facilities with more energy-efficient lighting, heating, and air conditioning and provide no-cost energy services to the community.
... Karina's Restaurant, formerly at the Village Walk in EastLake, has moved to the previous Venga Venga location at the Otay Ranch Town Center, CLICK HERE. Also, the Karina's location on Broadway is now closed making room for the Villa Del Oro condominiums and commercial tenant space. Third Avenue Ale House, 319 Third Avenue, is now open and receiving rave reviews for their 29 local brews and some wines, CLICK HERE for details. In the old Fresh & Easy location at Third and J Street, look for a new CVS drug store coming soon, and the former Haggen on East H Street has been approved for purchase by Smart and Final. The other two former Haggen stores in the City have not been officially approved for sale as of late November.
...our Fire and Police Departments received grants from the California Office of  Traffic Safety. The Fire Department will purchase three new sets of auto extrication tools including a "Jaws of Life" and heavy lift air bags to lift vehicles allowing access to patients trapped by a vehicle. The Department will also purchase vehicle extrication struts that stabilize overturned vehicles involved in a traffic collision. CVPD will continue awareness and enforcement efforts to alleviate drunk, drugged or distracted drivers. Enforcement operations will consist of DUI checkpoints, saturation patrols, warrant service, motorcycle safety, and bicycle/pedestrian operations. These efforts are designed to enhance safety by conducting enforcement operations and to increase public outreach and awareness.
...our libraries have several fun holiday activities planned in December. Check out these featured events - Civic Center (619) 691-5069: Book and Paper-Folding class for teens and adults, "Crafternoon Delight" Stocking Stuffers for kids and teens or a LED Light Holiday Card-making class for teens and kids; South Branch (619) 585-5755: Holiday Crafts for kids and teens and another one for adults, and Family Holiday Sing-Along; Otay Ranch (619) 397-5740: DIY Holiday Crafts for kids, Winter Wonderland Storytime for young kids, Jolly Elf Storytime, or Adult Winter Centerpiece Craft. For more information on these and other activities at the Chula Vista Public Library, please call the library or CLICK HERE.
 ... you can recycle lots of holiday items! Holiday cards, envelopes, and even wrapping paper can all go in the recycle bin. And your live tree is also a recyclable item - simply remove all ornaments, tinsel, stands, etc., cut into four foot sections if possible and place at the curb on your regular collection day.
Plastic trees are trash and are not recyclable.
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Book Sale
The Friends of the Chula Vista Library are holding their December book sale on Friday, December 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, December 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, December 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. Find some great deals at the Civic Center Library, 365 F Street.
Discounted LED Lights Are you looking to upgrade your lights with energy efficient LED bulbs but not sure where to go? Stop by the SDG&E bill pay center at 436 H Street in Chula Vista on Friday December 4, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. to buy discounted LED bulbs. You can take advantage of the special discounts and get a three pack of 60 watt equivalent bulbs, which use just 11 watts, for only $10. Each of these LED bulbs will save you over $100 in energy costs over its life which is much longer than older incandescent bulbs. There will also be more specialized bulbs for recessed can and outdoor fixtures and even holiday lights on sale. The energy savings from each light will also help the City win the $5 million dollar Georgetown University Energy Prize, CLICK HERE. For more information, contact the Conservation and Environmental Services Section, EMAIL, or (619) 409-3893.
Tree Decorating  Children of all ages are welcome to make an ornament at this free event and decorate the holiday tree on Friday, December 4. Come on down to Loma Verde Recreation Center, 1420 Loma Lane, at 2 p.m. Breakfast/Crafts with Santa
Bring the little ones (over one year of age) to the Otay Recreation Center, 3554 Main Street, for a visit with Santa and make a holiday craft all while enjoying a delicious pancake breakfast on Saturday, December 5. Fee is $3 for Chula Vista residents, $4 for non-residents age 17 and under, CLICK HERE, and $6 for residents, $7 for non-residents age 18 and older CLICK HERE.
Holiday in the Village/Starlight Parade
Come on down to Third Avenue for Holiday in the Village on Saturday, December 5, from 12 to 4 p.m. for shopping and activities including a snow hill! Then stay downtown and select your spot along the west side of Third Avenue between H and E Streets for the Starlight Parade beginning at 6 p.m. Don't miss this great family day of fun!
Elves Needed for Celebrating and Decorating  Sip a warm cup of cider and help Norman Park Senior Center get into the holiday spirit! We will provide the decorations but need elves to help decorate on Wednesday, December 9, at 270 F Street. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., warm cider, coffee and treats will be available. This is a free event but space is limited; please pre-register, CLICK HERE. Holiday Cookie Tree
Ages 5-12 are invited to grab your apron and head to the Otay Recreation Center on Wednesday, December 9, to make your own Holiday Cookie Tree! Supplies will be provided for this free event which is scheduled from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
See Santa Sing!
The Chula Vista Public Library will have visits from Santa on two dates. Visit Santa and sing-along is scheduled for Thursday, December 10, at the South Chula Vista Branch, 389 Orange Avenue, at 5:30 p.m. Then he visits and sings along again at the Civic Center Branch Library, 365 F Street, on Thursday, December 17, at 5:45 p.m. Come sing and see Santa!
U.S. Passport Fair
If your New Year's Resolution involves more travel, then head to the Otay Ranch Branch Library at the Otay Ranch Town Center for their passport fair on Saturday, December 12! From 12 to 5 p.m., you can apply for a passport and appointments or walk-ins are accepted. To make an appointment or for more information, please call (619) 397-5740.
 Christmas CircleIt's that time of year....when the circle of Whitney and Mankato streets in Chula Vista transforms to a magical place of beautiful holiday decorations and music. Walk or drive through the circle located between First and Second Avenues, south of H Street. The free display is open 5 to 10 p.m. nightly from December 12 through 26.
Basketball Referee Clinic
Parkway Community Center will host a free Basketball Referee Clinic on Monday, December 14, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Interested participants will have an opportunity to showcase their skills as potential referees for the youth sports program basketball leagues. Must have knowledge of basketball rules. To reserve your spot or for more information, call (619) 409-1980.
Gingerbread House and Cookie Decorating WorkshopWant to learn how to decorate holiday cookies to give away as gifts or keep for  yourself? Ages 4 to adult are invited to attend one of two sessions: Tuesday, December 15, from 4 to 6 p.m. or Saturday, December 19, from 10 a.m. to noon. Both sessions will be held at Montevalle Recreation Center, 840 Duncan Ranch Road, and include over 40 toppings to choose from for your home-baked goodies of a gingerbread house and two dozen sugar cookies. Registration is $50 for Chula Vista residents and $61 for non-residents. CLICK HERE, or sign up at any City Recreation Center. Holiday Brunch at Norman ParkBack by popular demand, the Norman Park Senior Center will be the site of an annual holiday brunch on Wednesday, December 16, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Tickets are $5 per person ($6 for non Chula Vista residents) and includes holiday music, an opportunity drawing and delicious food. CLICK HERE to register. Santa Comes to Loma  Santa Claus is coming to Loma Verde Recreation Center, 1420 Loma Lane, on Friday, December 18, from 3 to 4 p.m. Children of all ages are invited to attend the free event and give Santa your last minute wish list! Parents are welcome to bring their cameras and everyone receives a free candy cane. Parents Night OutParents can finish any last minute holiday shopping or make a date night on Friday, December 18, while the Otay Recreation Center staff entertains kids ages 5-12 years old. Fee is only $2 and includes pizza, games and crafts from 5 to 8 p.m. Space is limited and registration is required, CLICK HERE. Craft Party at MontevalleA variety of holiday craft projects are offered to children ages 5-12 to help bring in the holiday spirit! Held from 6 to 8 p.m. at Montevalle Recreation Center, registration is $5 for Chula Vista residents and $7 for non-residents. Sign up now for the Monday, December 21, event as space is limited, CLICK HERE. Holiday CampsParkway Community Center, 373 Park Way, is hosting two camps December 21-23: Basketball Camp will be held from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for kids ages 6-12. Fee is $30 for residents and $38 for non-residents. Team play and game scrimmages as well as skills of ball handling, dribbling, shooting and rebounding will be taught. CLICK HERE to register. Adventure Camp will consist of games, holiday crafts, sports and fun for those ages 6-12 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. The fee is $30 for Chula Vista residents and $38 for non-residents. To register, CLICK HERE. Winter Break Day CampsDay camps will be held at Montevalle Recreation Center from January 4-8 during the local school winter break. Featured camps are Art, Basketball, San Diego Skatelife Skateboard and Winter Wonder Week. Registration ranges from $56 to $150 depending on the camps chosen. CLICK HERE for more information.
WISHING YOU A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON!
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Contacts
______________________
SERVICES
Environment
CLEAN Business Program:
409-1975
Energy & Water Conservation:
409-3893
Storm Water Hotline: 397-6000
Environmental Services,
Household Hazardous Waste, Recycling and Solid Waste:
691-5122
Community
Graffiti Hotline: 691-5198
Graffiti IN PROGRESS: 911
Park Reservations Online
Library
Civic Branch: 691-5069
South Branch: 585-5755
Otay Ranch Branch: 397-5740
Library Online
Recreation
Administration: 409-5979
Recreation Online
CV Woman's Club: 409-1980
Heritage Center: 421-7032
Loma Verde Center: 409-1939
Loma Verde Pool: 409-1987
Montevalle Center: 691-5269
Norman Park Center: 409-1930
Otay Center: 409-1999
Parkway Center: 409-1980
Parkway Pool: 409-1985
Parkway Gym: 409-1990
Salt Creek Center: 585-5739
Veterans Center: 691-5260
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DEVELOPMENT
Land Development: 691-5024
Building: 691-5272
Planning: 691-5101
Code Enforcement: 691-5280
Redevelopment & Housing:
691-5047
Development Services Online
Economic Development:
409-5870
Small Businesses: 691-5248
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PUBLIC SAFETY
Emergency: 911
Fire
Main Line: 691-5055
Prevention Division: 691-5029
Prevention Online
Police
Report Crime/Dispatch:
691-5151
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GOVERNMENT
Mayor & Council: 691-5044
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ADMINISTRATION
City Attorney: 691-5037
City Clerk: 691-5041
City Manager: 691-5031
Communications
Media Relations &
Special Events: 691-5296
Finance
Main Line: 691-5250
Purchasing: 691-5141
Business Licenses Online
Human Resources
Main Line: 691-5096
Job Hotline: 691-5095
Volunteering: 691-5000
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