POSTMARK AND E-MAIL SUBMISSISION DEADLINE IS FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2012

The University of California, San Diego Early Academic Outreach Program has for fourteen years been a leader in honoring the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez through their annual essay contest. Please distribute this information widely. If you are in education please download and share the application at the link below. Be part of this San Diego traditions by helping us promote the longest running essay contest honoring Cesar E. Chavez in the state!

Instructions for completing essays: Write a two-page, typed essay answering the essay prompt presented. Be sure to develop your essay in a clear, concise manner. Include your name, address, phone number and school name on the Essay Contest Application.

Download the Essay Packet at: http://eaop.ucsd.edu/_files/2012-Chavez-essay.pdf

Free Tax Assistance now available at Chula Vista Libraries

This tax season don’t deal with the frustration of misplaced forms and tax publications or struggle to answer tax questions. To help low and middle income residents with their taxes, the Chula Vista Public Library has free tax assistance offered by trained volunteers under the auspices of AARP, as well as paper copies of many tax forms and instruction booklets. Special attention will be given to residents over 60.

We invite our residents to use the library’s services to help prepare their taxes, said Library Director Betty Waznis.

Whether you need copies of forms or come in for personal assistance, the library is here to make this stressful and busy time easier.

Free personal tax assistance is offered on the following days and times:

· Civic Center Branch, 365 F Street: AARP has scheduled sessions every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

· South Chula Vista Branch, 389 Orange Avenue: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The library is unable to offer appointments in advance. The service is offered on a same day first come, first serve basis and will end on April 15.

In addition, paper copies of most basic tax forms and booklets are available at both branch libraries.

For more information, visit the Chula Vista’s library, or go online at www.chulavistalibrary.com.

February 16 Public Meeting to Discuss Water Quality, Tijuana River Flood Control, and Watershed Planning

The United States Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission has scheduled a public meeting of the USIBWC Citizens Forum on Thursday, February 16, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Tijuana Estuary Meeting Room, 301 Cas-pian Way, Imperial Beach, CA 91932. The meeting will focus on water quality and flood control issues.

Members of the public who would like more information about the meeting may call 619-662-7600 or e-mail sally.spener@ibwc.gov.

MTS Kicks Off the 10th Annual MTS Coca-Cola Laptop Scholarship

Entries are now being accepted for the 10th Annual Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Coca-Cola Laptop Scholarship.

Application forms are available on-line on the MTS web-site at www.sdmts.com or at The Transit Store at 1st and Broadway in downtown San Diego. Information is also available at high school counseling offices.

Adelante Mujer Conference, Latinas Inspiring Young Latinas

The Adelante Mujer Conference is an all day celebration in hopes of inspiring a higher percentage of Latinas to continue their education beyond high school. The 19th Annual Adelante Mujer Conference will provide various presentations by professional San Diego Women who serve as exceptional examples for younger Latinas and their mothers. Many presenters have had to overcome barriers and struggles in order to accomplish their success. The festivities will include a small breakfast, several breakout workshops, lunch and entertainment.

This year’s Adelante Mujer Conference will take place at Eastlake Middle School on Saturday March 3, 2012 from 7:45 am – 2:00 pm for girls in grades 6

th-12th and their mothers. A scholarship is awarded to an outstanding Latina senior who has maintained a high grade point average while being actively involved in her community. Adelante Mujer presents an opportunity to maintain and strengthen the connection between students, schools and the community.

U.S. National Educator of the Year say’s “Americas Education System is being BLOWN AWAY by the Chinese!”

Local public school veteran teacher and national recognized educator including the “Milken” United States National Educator of the Year, Keith Ballard, traveled to China and India to learn from their public education system in comparison to the United States. This coming week, Feb. 16, Ballard will share his experiences and perspective from his travels with South Bay audience at Chula Vista High School.

Ballard will reveal that the US Public School System is being “Blown-Away” and simply won’t be able to compete without undergoing major changes! Making the comparison to a football game, Ballard contends that the Chinese public school system (K-12) is so good that is something like the NFL, where as the United States is playing high school football. Ballard states “the main reason I did this project is because I have a 7 year old son and I have “deep concerns” weather his education in the US public school system will sufficiently prepare him to compete for the best jobs in the future.”

Event: Understanding the New Tsunami “The Chinese Public School Educational System” & How to prepare your Children to Compete for the High Tech, High Paying Jobs of the Future!

Date/Time: Thursday, February 16th (6:30pm – 8:30pm)

Location: Chula Vista H.S., Jack Tygett Performing Arts Center (820 4th Ave. Chula Vista, CA 91911).

Director Verbeke noted, “After a comprehensive process with a number of qualified candidates, the board has determined that Carlos Lugo is the best person for the position. His 20-plus years of experience at Helix and leadership style will sustain the organizational excellence of the District and maintain the outstanding service we provide our customers.”

There were 61 applicants for the position, including a number from out of state. Of those, several extremely well qualified individuals were extensively interviewed by the board over the past six weeks. The selection was made public after this morning’s board meeting.

Lugo’s appointment will become effective after the board formally approves his employment agreement at the Feb. 1 board meeting.

Lugo has been with the Helix Water District since 1991. He began his career in the District’s engineering section as an assistant engineer. He became director of engineering 10 years ago where he currently oversees a staff of 25.

Lugo holds a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from San Diego State University. He is a member of American Water Works Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, American Public Works Association, and is a licensed professional engineer.

Helix’s engineering section includes planning design, right of way, survey, and inspection. Lugo has full responsibility for, and oversight of, the District’s Capital Improvement Program. Under his direction, the District embarked on an ambitious Cast Iron Replacement Program, which replaced an average of five miles of pipe per year over the past 10 years, with the goal of removing all remaining cast iron pipe from the District within the next 10 years.

Between 1998 and 2002, Lugo oversaw the upgrade to the R. M. Levy Water Treatment Plant from 80 million to 108 million gallons per day and the addition of Ozone as the primary drinking water disinfectant.

Helix Water District serves 267,000 customers each day with a staff of 146.

The San Diego Public Library is proud to announce its annual Black History Month book discussion series, An American Book Discussion: Just Some of the Stories I Could Tell. The first of two sessions will feature Drinking Coffee Elsewhere by ZZ Packer. Professor Camille F. Forbes, Ph.D., an African American literature and culture expert will facilitate the discussion at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 in the Wangenheim Room on the third floor of the Central Library, located at 820 E Street in downtown San Diego.

Learn about other events at the San Diego Public Library’s Central Library at www.sandiegolibrary.org.

New Year, New Suit

To help start the new year, Chula Vista.s Recreation Department is providing free swim suits to young swimmers and water polo players. The donated suits are available to children and teens that demonstrate financial need, and are actively participating in a competitive aquatic program or registered for swim lessons with the City.

Over 200 swim suits were donated by Lincoln Aquatics, Knotts Soak City, Q Swimwear, and the Make a Splash Program through USA Swimming. The program will continue through March 30 while supplies last.

For forms, additional information on how to donate, or to receive free suits, please visit www.chulavistaca.gov/goto/swim, or call (619) 691-5088. 

Barnard Mandarin Chinese Magnet School Invites San Diego to Celebrate Chinese New Year

WHAT: 2012 Year of the Dragon Ceremonies for school community

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4

WHERE: Barnard Elementary School, 2930 Barnard St. (92110).

San Diego’s Mandarin Chinese Magnet School will be celebrating the Chinese New Year with traditional lion dance, martial arts demonstrations, classical Chinese musical performances, and performances by Barnard’s incredible students. The students will be performing Chinese songs and dances, with good food available. Proceeds help support the programs at the school. 

Oceanside Film Festival call for entries

Oceanside International Film Festival announces an open call for submissions from professional and amateur filmmakers. The festival is accepting works from both international sources and those local to San Diego. No experience necessary. Students are especially encouraged to participate by taking an advantage of great discount rates.

The festival showcases features, documentaries, shorts, animation, and student works from filmmakers who have not yet signed distribution agreements and look for recognition among wider audiences. Elevating the chances for landing distribution deals for movies like “Callous” is one of the high goals of this non-profit organization.

For more info call to leave a message at 760-433-3632 or email OIFF@ocaf.info See OIFF Facebook page for more info: www.facebook.com/likeOIFF

 2nd Annual Stephen Strasburg 5K Race

WHO: Major League pitcher and former SDSU star Stephen Strasburg; Aztecs Coach Tony Gwynn; the 2012 Aztecs Baseball team; along with thousands of runners and walkers.

The Aztecs Baseball team and several celebrities will be signing autographs at the booth set-up near the finish line following the race.

WHEN: Saturday, January 28, 2012. Registration: 7:00 a.m. Conclusion of race, Fun Zone and Food Court

WHERE: Tony Gwynn Stadium at San Diego State University

The San Diego Public Library will host an author-talk featuring children’s author Suzanne Santillan. She will discuss her award-winning work, Grandma’s Pear Tree, a bilingual children’s picture book. This event, which is free and open to the public, is at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 24, at the Mt. View/Beckwourth Branch Library, located at 721 San Pasqual St., 92113.

The library will be offering a free copy of the book to each family attending the event, while supplies last. The book and author are recent recipients of the Golden Moonbeam Award for picture books ages 4-8. Grandma’s Pear Tree is Ms. Santillan’s first picture book, and a realization of her dream to be a children’s book writer. The author was born and raised in Los Angeles, but currently lives in San Diego. She works as a freelance graphic artist and has illustrated charts and graphs for over 100 library reference books.

Suzanne Santillan’s appearance is part of Mt View/Beckwourth Branch Library’s “Building for the Future” project. This project was designed to motivate reading by introducing library patrons to the world of books through the presentation of local authors, the offering of free books, and by providing them with information on literacy. The “Building for the Future” project has been sponsored by a local grant from the Neighborhood Unity Foundation. 

The City of San Diego Public Library – Your Link to the Past and Gateway to the Future www.sandiegolibrary.org.

 The California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (CA-HCC) and the CAHCC Southern Region Chambers bring together the Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), utility companies and successful Hispanic suppliers to discuss the “Secrets to Doing Business with the Utilities.”

Staff from the CPUC will discuss the “Certification Process,” how to get it completed and approved, how to maintain your certification and how to leverage your certification to seek out opportunities.

Utility company representatives will discuss what they are looking for in potential suppliers, how to access contract opportunities, and the secrets to successfully leveraging your business relationships to get the business! Participating utilities for this session include – Southern California Edison and others.

Successful Hispanic business-owners who have had, or are currently doing business with California’s major utility companies will discuss the experiences and efforts of becoming a successful qualified & certified contractor with the utility companies in California.

Registration is Free. If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact the CAHCC office at 800.299.6033 or visit our website at www.cahcc.com.

Rick Coburn. SoCal DP is dedicated to providing free English and Spanish/English bilingual dictionaries to all third grade students.

Determined to continue improving lives at every age and income level throughout the community, 20 volunteers from the Rancho Bernardo Sunrise Rotary Club recently fanned out across area elementary schools to distribute free dictionaries to third graders.

“We organize this effort in cooperation with the SoCal Dictionary Project,” reports club president Rick Coburn. SoCal DP is dedicated to providing free English and Spanish/English bilingual dictionaries to all third grade students in the nation’s public schools. “We are very proud to have been involved in this excellent effort.” says Coburn, noting this is the ninth year the RB Sunrise Club has worked with area schools in this way.

Each year RB Sunrise Rotary distributes almost 1,350 dictionaries – one for every third grader at 11 San Diego-area elementary schools. The money used to sponsor this year’s program was raised during the club’s 2011 holiday campaign, an annual event that uses a full-page ad in area newspapers to thank the generosity of area individuals and businesses responsible for donating tens of thousands of dollars to help make North County a better place to live. RB Sunrise Rotary returns every dollar to the community through programs like the Dictionary Project.

Children at Dingeman, Ericson, Hage, Hickman, Jerabek, Mason, Midland, Painted Rock, Park Village, Valley, and Walker elementary schools benefited from the dictionary program. Coburn reports efforts are already underway to raise money for next year’s dictionary campaign.

About Rancho Bernardo Sunrise Rotary

: The RB Sunrise Rotary is a group of professional men and women dedicated to service above self. They meet each Tuesday morning at 7:00 am at the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo, 12280 Greens East Road, San Diego, CA 92128. Prospective members are invited to attend a meeting as a guest.

The Rancho Bernardo Sunrise Rotary club itself can be found online at www.rbsunrise.org.

The Charter Review Commission is seeking public input regarding a potential change to

Chula Vista’s election system. City Councilmembers are currently elected through an “at-large” system; the City Council is considering placing a charter amendment on the ballot to switch to a “district” system. A second public meeting has been scheduled; the first meeting was January 3. The Charter Review Commission is preparing a recommendation to the City Council on this matter and is soliciting public comment, which can be provided one of three ways:

• Attend a second public outreach session on Monday, January 9 at Veterans Park Recreation Center, 785 E. Palomar Street, at 7 p.m.

• Visit the Commission’s webpage and complete the survey at: www.chulavistaca.gov/goto/cityattorney/CRC; or

• Send an e-mail to: cityattorney@chulavistaca.gov. Your e-mail will be forwarded to the Charter Review Commission.

The deadline to submit the survey answers or send an email about district elections is January 17, 2012. The Charter Review Commission will report the results to the City Council in mid-February.

CV Town Hall Meeting

‘Northwest Civic Association’s next Town Hall Meeting will be in the auditorium of the Chula Vista Civic Center Library (at 4th & F), Wednesday, January 11th at 6:00 p.m. The topic will be the proposed Urbana Apartment complex project located on H St. between Third & Fourth Avenues. This project will consist of a 6-story (84 foot), 266 unit apartment complex with 380 parking spaces. Representatives from the project as well as the City will speak about the project and will be available to answer questions. Of particular interest are the transitions to neighboring 2 story properties and fee waivers of approximately $5.5 million. The event is free. Everyone is welcome. For further information, please call 619-307-3460. www.northwestchulavista.org.

New Year…New Resolutions…New Community

Make a difference in 2012

Join us on Wednesday, January 11th for the first San Ysidro Community Plan Update Advisory Committee Meeting of the New Year! This meeting will include: a presentation on citywide commercial zones, general information on the role of mobility and traffic analysis in developing the land use plan, and a preview of the available technical studies related to the environmental analysis.

YOUR participation and input are more important now than ever! So please help us get the word out to your family, friends and neighbors and urge them to attend these meetings to express their views on the improvements they would like to see in San Ysidro.

Children are always welcomed and supervised child activities are available. Spanish translation will be available. Light dinner and refreshments will be served.

Date: Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Willow Elementary – Multipurpose Room, 226 Willow Road, San Ysidro, CA 92173

For additional information, contact Sara Osborn at 619-236-6368, sanysidroplan@sandiego.gov or visit http://www.sandiego.gov/planning/community/cpu/sanysidro/. For information in Spanish, contact Josie Calderon at 619-475-8524 or jlcconsultants@cox.net.

Old Town San Diego’s Third Annual ‘Blessing of the Animals” Returns Jan. 15

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is hosting the third annual Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, Jan. 15, from noon to 3 p.m. The blessing is led by Monsignor Mark Campbell, but all faiths and convictions are welcome to celebrate the animals that make our lives so special. The blessings will take place between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

There will be a pet expo with treats for pets and owners as well as activities for kids. Sky Hunters will be bringing exotic birds to the event and various rescue groups such as Emergency Animal Rescue and Wee Companions will educate the public about rescuing, rehabilitating and supporting wild and domesticated animals.

There will also be animals available for adoption and a special appearance by Chopper the Biker Dog. Chopper is an one-year-old Boston terrier who is known all around the county for riding his own Harley Davidson motorcycle and his distinctive biker goggles.

The event features animal-themed entertainment such as pet psychic readings by Sindi Somers from Wild and Tame. Other groups participating include Love My Pet, Santee Bunny Shelter, and Chihuahua Rescue of San Diego.

Admission to this event is free.

San Diego Free Speech Fight: 100th Anniversary Exhibit Opening

Friday, January 6, 2012 @ 7 pm
Centro Cultural de la Raza
2004 Park Blvd, San Diego 92101

Join us for an evening of art, history and entertainment! This will be your first opportunity to see the Free Speech Fight exhibit, including photographs from 1912, original pieces by Fred Lonidier (AFT 2034) and other local artists, as music by Gregory Page, The Proles, and The People’s Revolutionary Choir, and a reading from Flash by author Jim Miller (AFT 1931).

Admission is free and refreshments will be provided. Free parking is available across the street from the Centro.

The exhibition will be open from January 6th until February 12th, Centro Gallery Hours: Tues. – Sun. 12 – 4 pm

Please RSVP to Jerry Tom aszewiczjt@unionyes.org or by calling 619-228-8101 x5.

Online Scholarship Application Process 

The San Diego Foundation believes everyone has a right to higher education, and this year’s launch of the Common Scholarship Application is more important than ever. To meet the anticipated increased demand from a poor economy, The San Diego Foundation has launched an online application. With one application, students are considered for hundreds of scholarships held at The San Diego Foundation.

The Foundation plans to award approximately $3 million in scholarships in 2012. The Foundation’s Community Scholarship Program offers a wide variety of scholarships to graduating high school seniors, current college graduates, and adult re-entry students. Awards are granted to four-year universities, two-year colleges, graduate, and trade/vocational schools.

Those interested in applying for scholarships can access a multitude of links and resources, as well as the Common Scholarship Application on our website at www.sdfoundation.org/scholarships.The deadline is February 13, 2012.

With a projected 40 percent population growth in the next 40 years, we will need 400,000 more homes and 500,000 new jobs by 2050. Now, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to influence how people will live, work, learn and play in the future throughout the San Diego region. Starting November 30, visit ShowYourLoveSD.org, share your values and priorities and be a part of a major, region-wide effort to plan for our future. This is our chance to share our personal voices on what we want our region to become. If many of us speak up, government officials will listen!

You can see and choose from four different approaches for housing future generations—from the status quo to high-density apartment and condo towers and everything in between. You’ll find out how those approaches impact travel time, water consumption and housing affordability. Streetscape simulations will help spark your imagination as these various development approaches are applied to Oceanside, Chula Vista, University Heights, Mission Valley and Ramona.

In addition, you will have the chance to weigh in on hot topics, including:

• Redeveloping the Qualcomm Stadium into a new housing and job center

• Building homes on Rancho Guejito, one of the largest pieces of undeveloped land in the County

• Easing building height restrictions near the coast to allow for more density

• Developing a world class sports and entertainment complex to attract major cultural and sporting events

• Deciding if the region wants a new international airport

• Deciding on a new University in Chula Vista to spur job creation and higher education

ShowYourLoveSD.org is the result of nearly two years of research and community input organized under Our Greater San Diego Vision, an initiative facilitated by The San Diego Foundation and supported by close to 300 ambassadors and task force members, more than 170 diverse community partners, and an unprecedented 10 media sponsors.

“It’s in everyone’s interests to take a few minutes and go online to help shape the region for decades to come,” said Bill Geppert, chair of Our Greater San Diego Vision. “People in San Diego County are concerned about the region’s future, especially its high cost of living and how that impacts their quality of life. This is an opportunity to put the future in your own hands.”

“The San Diego Foundation has championed improving the quality of life for all San Diegans for more than 35 years. Now, we are asking you – what type of community do you want to work in, live in, enjoy and learn? We believe we can convene the community to enhance the common good according to your vision,” said Bob Kelly, president and CEO of The San Diego Foundation.

During community workshops in the fall and task force meetings over the summer, ideas were generated and then combined with the initiative’s public opinion research and other data points to come up with senarios presented at ShowYourLoveSD.org.

Currently, outreach efforts to engage as many residents as possible include an iPad Outreach team from San Diego State University’s Consensus Organizing Center who will engage communities with low or no broadband access, including seniors with limited mobility and transportation, the homeless, veterans and immigrants who may not speak English. Partnerships with the county and city library systems, the Chicano Federation; and faith-based organizations including mosques, churches, temples and synagogues will also ensure the broadest participation possible.

Once the public participation window closes in mid-January, the results will be developed into a guiding vision for the region to be unveiled in the late Spring of 2012 and continually refreshed and updated.

To help shape a vision for the future of the region in which we all live, work and play, visit www.ShowYourLoveSD.org.

Families had the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa at the Breakfast with Santa event. Photo By Joe Long.

In the wee waking hours of December 17, 2011 on Saturday, the Annual Breakfast with Santa Claus was underway, to be held at the Paradise Hills Park and Recreation Center. The event would begin from 9 a.m. and end at 12 p.m. By 11:30 over 435 attendees had a hearty breakfast.

Every year the Paradise Hills Recreation Council, staff, park members, and student volunteers such as AYSO and others participated in assisting with the set-up and prepping for the morning breakfast at 7 a.m. The food was made on the spot and throughout the day with favorite morning dishes such as pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, milk and orange juice.

The children had their photos taken with Santa Claus; prizes and over 6 bike giveaways. It also had exceptional youth performers such as violinists, youth carolers, a guitarist and a rockin’ dj.

The parents who signed-up prior received free toys for their children which was given after 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. from Toys for Tots.

Joe Long a Del Sur resident said his daughter, Kim Phan, a sixteen-year-old told the family after the event about her experience being one of the violin performers.

As Ms. Phan and her friend rehearsed before the performance, one young teenage male in middle school approached them and said, “I have seen violin musicians on television but never live.” He shared that it was a treat for him to see the youth players from North County: Kim Phan and Chenelle Carey McClain-Barrett performed in front of him.

Kim Phan came home feeling good that she and her friend made a big difference.

Stacey LoMedico from the City of San Diego Park and Recreation Director commented and said, “Thank you to all the volunteers for the great assistance!”

Andre Binns, President of the Paradise Hills Park and Recreation Council (PHRC) said, “I want to commend the staff at PHRC & PENN for an outstanding job that they did for our annual Breakfast with Santa. We served many people and it went off without any glitched.”

The event was sponsored by the City of San Diego Park and Recreation Department: Paradise Hills Recreation Council.

The event can be viewed with this courtesy You Tube by Kim Phan. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKT9zgPaGqk

Latino Film Showcase will be co-produced with Latin Heat Media and Getty Images Hispanic

In an effort to spotlight the next generation of U.S. Latino filmmakers, organizers of Hispanicize 2012 (April 11-13) announced that the third installment of its national trends event will feature a Latino Film Showcase and professional development program. The film showcase (http://film.hispanicizeevent.com) will highlight more than a combined 40 feature length films, documentaries and short films by Latino filmmakers.

“Hispanicize 2012 will be one of the most influential national platforms Latino filmmakers have to nurture and promote their careers,” said Hispanicize 2012 Creative Director and Organizer Manny Ruiz. “Our event will gather so many journalists, Latino blog-gers and other key cultural influencers together around the themes of media, social media, marketing and entertainment that it will provide a natural launch pad for filmmakers to be discovered and recognized.” 

Latin Heat Media and Getty Images Hispanic

The Hispanicize 2012 Latino Film Showcase will be produced in conjunction with the venerable Latin Heat Media, LLC and Getty Images Hispanic, two leading entertainment content platforms.

“Hispanicize 2012 represents a one-of-a-kind, historic opportunity that I believe will greatly enrich the Latino filmmaking community,” said Latin Heat CEO Bel Hernandez. “Latin Heat is working closely with its industry friends and Hispanicize 2012 to ensure this event advances the work of the independent filmmakers, actors and producers that we serve.”

Latin Heat will play a lead role in both the selection of films and in the creation of workshops that helps filmmakers learn about developing content, networking, marketing and funding their projects.

For its part, Getty Images Latin America will play a key role in documenting the entire Hispanicize 2012 event and especially in helping organize the key film premieres and red carpet programs that are planned.

“This is an event whose time has come,” said Monica Taher, partner, Getty Images Hispanic. “We’re excited to provide our national and global news distribution platform to broadcast the people and the works that will be showcased at Hispanicize 2012.” 

Call for Entries

The Hispanicize 2012 Film Showcase will screen feature length films and documentaries in South Florida movie theaters and at the event’s main conference hotel itself, the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Miami.

Overseen by film showcase organizer/curator Roman Morales of Austin, Texas, the film showcase part of the event will include content from Latin America but will have a special emphasis on the works of U.S.-based Latino filmmakers. The deadline submission deadline is February 7. The final deadline for film entries is February 21.

Hispanicize 2012 will have a $10,000 prize for the best independent feature film included in the showcase.

The event will have a $5,000 prize for the best short film. Short films selected for Hispanicize 2012 will be screened in a constant rotation format throughout each day of the event at the main hotel venue and will be heavily marketed before and during the program.

Late breaking news and complete film entry details about the Latino Film Showcase are available through the special film microsite of Hispanicize 2012, http://film.hispanicizeevent.com.

The 15th Annual Toys for Joy event at Abraham Lincoln High School on Saturday, December 17

In tough economic times, everyone needs hope, especially the estimated 14.8 percent of those in San Diego County who live in poverty. In 2010 alone, 72,401 more people fell into poverty, according to the Center for Policy Initiatives. Toys for Joy is just one way San Diegans are joining forces to bring hope to others.

Toys for Joy is more than just a toy to those families who wait hours in line to get a toy for their children. Not only will children receive a free toy but families will have the opportunity to receive free food, clothing, groceries and entertainment. During the holidays, a helping hand is even more appreciated by those who receive it. Many volunteers and sponsors work together to make this annual event an added blessing.

Toys for Joy began more than a decade ago in partnership with Victory Outreach Church in San Diego. At that time, the Rock Church did not exist and it was Miles Ahead Ministry that spearheaded the event.

In addition to the 10,000 toys and 60,000 pounds of food that will be distributed to families in need, there will also be free food, clothing, and groceries, live entertainment including STOMP junior troupe, a children’s fun zone, and a special venue for teens. This event is free and open to the community.

WHEN: Saturday, December 17, 2011, 9 AM – 2PM
WHERE: Abraham Lincoln High School, 4777 Imperial Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113

Teatro Mascara Magica presents “La Pastorela de Valor.”

San Diego Repertory Theatre – Teatro Mascara Magica’s award winning series is coming to the San Diego Repertory Theatre located at the Lyceum Theatre in downtown San Diego. “La Pastorela de Valor,” debuts Thursday, December 15, and runs through Saturday, December 24, celebrating the 21st Anniversary of the “La Pastorela,” a bilingual musical originally produced at the Old Globe Theatre in 1991. “La Pastorela” is written by Max Branscomb and directed by William Virchis, celebrated talents renowned not solely in San Diego theatre but in the national Latino theatre community. The musical appeals to English and Spanish speakers with text written in English and the Christmas songs sung in Spanish. For tickets, show dates and times, contact the Lyceum Theatre box office at (619) 544-1000, or visit: www.facebook.com/pages/La-Pastorela/ 

    Baje unos grados al termostato: La calefacción del hogar es el gasto principal por energía para la mayoría de los clientes y puede representar hasta el 16 por ciento de su factura mensual. El consumidor promedio puede ahorrar casi $13 (o hasta 20 por ciento) en las facturas mensuales durante el invierno simplemente bajando el termostato de la calefacción de 3 a 5 grados (si su salud se lo permite).Para ahorrar aún más, apague el termostato cuando no se encuentre en casa. Las temperaturas ideales son de 68F durante el día y de 55F o menos por la noche. Mantenga los aparatos que emitan calor, tales como lámparas, alejados del termostato para obtener una lectura correcta.

    Dar mantenimiento tiene sus beneficios: Revise los filtros, la flama del piloto y los que madores de su sistema de calefacción. Solicite que un contratista le dé el servicio adecuado para mantenerlo funcionando en óptimas condiciones y con seguridad. Haga examinar los ductos de aire de su casa para detectar fugas y selle de ser necesario. Esto le ayudará a ahorrar hasta un 20 por ciento en costos de calefacción durante el invierno.

    Super limpio: Limpie y aspire el polvo de los ductos, los calefactores “baseboard” de piso y los ductos de aire frío. La acumulación de polvo en los ductos es una de las causas principales de contaminación dentro de la casa y podría provocar un aumento en enfermedades causadas por el frío. Considere la contratación de un experto para limpiar áreasdel ducto que sean difíciles de alcanzar. Limpiar o reponer los filtros de la caldera antes y durante la temporada de frío le podría ahorrar hasta 2 por ciento en los costos de calefacción.

    Solicite su “revisión” este invierno: Si desea que SDG&E encienda el piloto de su calefacción, revise el funcionamiento de su caldera o prenda su medidor de gas, lo mejor es hacer una cita ahora mismo.

    Aislante, Aislante, Aislante: Es de suma importancia que su techo, paredes y pisos cuenten con el aislante adecuado. También considere la condición en que se encuentra su tejado; averigüe cuáles son los puntos problemáticos y cómo detectar una gotera desde el interior.

    El calafateo es clave: Colocar calafateo alrededor de sus puertas y ventanas, no es caro. El calafateo ayuda a mantener su casa sellada contra el clima y reduce el costo por calentamiento en hasta un 5 por ciento, con el beneficio adicional del ahorro en costos por aire acondicionado durante el verano. También puede ayudar a mantener a los insectos y otros “bichos” fuera de su casa.

    Deje descansar su calentador de agua: Su calentador de agua también trabaja horas extras durante el invierno y puede representar hasta 20 por ciento de los costosdel uso de gas natural. De se baños con agua tibia más rápidos, y utilice agua fría al lavar ropa para ahorrar hasta un 10 por ciento en el costo por usar agua caliente. Sólo use la lavadora de trastes o de ropa cuando sean cargas completas y repare los grifos que tengan fugas.

    ¡Ayuda, por favor!: Contacte a SDG&E si necesita ayuda para pagar su factura este invierno. La empresa cuenta con programas de asistencia para clientes elegibles que ofrecen descuentos en las tarifas hasta en un 35 por ciento, a través del programa California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) dependiendo del número de personas viviendo en su hogar y de sus ingresos.

    Productos o servicios gratuitos para ahorrar energía: ¿Se encuentran la iluminación energéticamente eficiente, los cabezales de ducha, el calafateo y burletes en su lista para estas fiestas,  pero fuera de su presupuesto? De ser así, usted podría ser elegible para estos y otros productos y servicios gratuitos durante esta temporada festiva por parte del Energy Savings Assistance Program de SDG&E. Para saber si es elegible, visite sdge.com/energyassistance o llame al 1-800-597-0597.

    Rápido, fácil y gratis: También existen mejoras gratuitas que usted puede hacer que ayudan a conservar energía. Cierre las persianas y cortinas durante la noche para ayudar a mantener el calor dentro de la casa y ábralas en el día para que el sol pueda calentar su hogar. Hornee durante las horas más fríasdeldía pero jamás utilice su horno como calefacción. El aire húmedo se siente más tibio, así que prenda su humidificador  o tenga plantas dentro de la casa. Use ropa suelta y en capas – el aire atrapado entre las capas brinda calor adicional.

New Board president, Pearl Quiñones

    At their recent meeting, the Sweetwater Board of Trustees selected Pearl Quiñones as President and Jim Cartmill as Vice President. Continuing their roles, Superintendent Dr. Edward Brand will serve as Secretary and Deanne Vicedo will serve as the Clerk of the board.

    Ms. Quiñoneas is serving her third term on the school board. She is a fellow of the HOPE Leadership Institute and past vice president of the California Latino School Board Members Association. Ms. Quiñones has served on the executive board of the National Association of Latino Elected Officials and as a delegate to the California School Boards Association. She is a graduate ofSan DiegoStateUniversitywhere she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration. As a retired educator, Ms. Quiñones has a passion for helping at-risk students. She has been an advocate for establishing the district’s health and wellness policy. A resident ofNational City, she worked as a full-time educator while raising her son, Eric, and earning her college degrees.

Public Input Needed for Potential District Elections in Chula Vista

The Charter Review Commission is seeking public input regarding a potential change toChula Vista’s election system. City Councilmembers are currently elected through an “at-large” system; the City Council is considering placing a charter amendment on the ballot to switch to a “district” system. The Charter Review Commission is preparing a recommendation to the City Council on this matter and is soliciting public comment, which can be provided one of three ways:

Attend a public outreach session on Tuesday, January 3, 2012, at the Salt Creek Recreation facility,2710 Otay Lakes Road, from 7-9 p.m.; Visit the Commission’s webpage and complete the survey at: www.chulavistaca.gov/goto/cityattorney/CRC; or Send an e-mail to: cityattorney@chulavistaca.gov.

Your e-mail will be forwarded to the Charter Review Commission.  

The deadline to submit the survey answers or send an email about district elections is January 17, 2012. The Charter Review Commission will report the results to the City Council in mid-February.

The Centro Seeking an Attorney to Serve on the Board

    The Centro Cultural de la Raza, a community-based arts organization with over 40 years of service, is currently seeking a talented and energetic attorney to serve on our Board of Trustees.

    This is an excellent pro bono opportunity: Assist and preserve the Centro for future generations!

    We have tried the usual recruitment methods with no result. This is why we are putting this OPEN LETTER out in this way. We need help now! Please!

    Please contact Juan Gallegos, Chairman, Board of Trustees, to follow up or for more information at juan@gallegosassociates.com or 619-246-7550.

SOHO asking for help to save sign

    We are asking for your help in an urgent time-sensitive matter regarding the historic Agua Caliente sign in downtownSan Diegopainted on the California Theatre.

    We are asking you to write the Mayor and council, requesting them to intervene to rescind the unilateral decision made by the Historical Resources Board (HRB) staff to allow a beer advertiser to paint over the original Caliente artwork with a new beer ad and that this item be sent to the Historic Resources Board, where it should have been heard in the first place, for proper review and consideration as a historic and cultural resource.

    Write the council, Mayor and HRB Senior Planner with a single click HERE (http://sohosandiego.org/main/mayor_hrb_city_all.htm).

    Some background on the mural is covered in this KPBS article (http://www.kpbs.org/news/2011/dec/12/caliente-sign-california-theater-may-disappear/).

Volunteer Opportunties:

Project Manager/Aircraft Maintenance

    The USS Midway Museum is looking for a dynamic volunteer to lead projects in on-going aircraft maintenance for our static displays of historic aircraft. Applicant must have leadership skills and aircraft maintenance/restoration background.  Knowledge of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft corrosion control procedures a plus.

Volunteer Airwing Material Coordinator

    The USS MIDWAY Museum is looking for a volunteer to serve as Material Coordinator for aircraft restoration and maintenance. Duties would include maintaining an adequate supply of tools, parts and consumables necessary to complete on-going projects in accordance with hazardous materials storage regulations and identifying suppliers for vintage aircraft maintenance and restoration.

    Call 619-398-8222 for more info.

Las Posadas Joseph Mary and Angel

    Kensington Community Church (KCC), United Church of Christ, celebrated the season with its second annual Las Posadas in Kensington production on Saturday, Dec. 3rd. Put on by the church’s Middle and High School Youth Group, the outdoor reenactment of the Christmas story featured a candlelit community procession with the angel, Mary, Joseph and the donkey as they were turned away by innkeepers at Kensington Café and Starbucks.

    Throngs followed Mary and Joseph as they walked down a luminaria-lined street to a Live Nativity and Carol Sing in front of Kensington Community Church. After the event, church members, neighbors and friends enjoyed tamales, piñatas and a petting zoo. Las Posadas is Spanish for “The Inns.”

    “Our Las Posadas production is becoming a community tradition in Kensington, celebrating the room we make in our hearts for the peace of Christmas,” said Marg Stark, Youth Group Co-Leader and Religious Education Director at Kensington Community Church.

    During its 10:00 a.m. Sunday service, the church runs a growing religious education program for children ranging from infants to high school students. In addition, the KCC Youth Group meets on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and engages in service projects, social events, music, and much more. Find the KCC Youth Group on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/KCC-Youth-Group/208071715874320.

Padres pitcher, Ernesto Friero, gives the new PlayStation 3 a workout with some of the youth.

    An ambitious new youth center, Casa Familiar Youth Center, opened in San Ysidro, thanks to the cooperation of the Villa Nueva housing complex, the San Diego Padres, San Diego State University, Casa Familiar, county government, and other organizations. The youth center is housed in what had once been Villa Nueva’s property-management office at 3604 Beyer Boulevard.

    Along with giving the area’s students a much-needed place to hang out after school, the center offers internet access with both Macintosh and Windows computers, leadership programs, interactive fitness games on a PS3, a community garden, and a service designed to transition students from the local high schools into university life. In all, the center offers some twenty-five programs to help local students.

    The San Diego Padres showed up in force for the bilingual ribbon-cutting ceremony to offer their support and to donate seven PS3 Play-Stations. The PlayStations include several interactive video games promoting physical activity, such as the baseball program that members of the team played with some of the fifty students who attended.

    A member of the Padres public relations department remembered the previous youth center in San Ysidro, which the city closed several years ago. “I grew up on Del Sur Boulevard,” she said, “and if it hadn’t been for the help I got at the center I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I have today.” With that lesson in mind, only one of the PlayStations will remain at the center: the others will be awarded in December to the six students who have contributed the most in the center’s “Young Leaders / Jóvenes Líderes” programs.

    Programs under the “Young Leaders / Jóvenes Líderes” rubric teach leadership skills through civic engagement, community service, and next-step thinking. Students are encouraged to find a social need and then fill it in a way that amplifies their individual effort. “Let’s say a student notices that litter in their neighborhood needs to be picked up,” Catalina Trejo, the director of these programs, offers as an example. “They don’t just go out and pick up the litter. They figure out how to organize their neighborhood and pick the litter up as a community.”

    Some five hundred students have already benefited from “Young Leaders / Jóvenes Líderes” programs during their first three years in operation. The opening of the youth center affords these programs a permanent home and a chance to meet a growing demand. Currently the high schools in the San Ysidro and Sweet-water districts require thirty hours of community service for graduation: at the youth center these students can find existing service programs as well as the opportunity to design their own.

    Casa Azteca is another innovative offering at the youth center. This program hopes to encourage both interest and success in higher education within an underserved community. Bárbara Fierro, the youth center’s coordinator, said the idea came about when San Diego State University noticed high drop-out rates among its students from the southwestern part of the county, particularly those from San Ysidro.

    Casa Azteca is an outreach program for the local high schools, it invites seniors with a grade point average of 3.0 or better to familiarize themselves with the university atmosphere before they apply for admission. As a support program for SDSU’s southernmost freshmen, it offers a satellite campus with computers, tutoring, and study groups close to home.

    More information about the youth center and its programs is available from the administrative offices of Casa Familiar, 619-428-1115.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Service Honors Hispanic Tradition

    In December in the year 1531, Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared miraculously on a cloak on the hill of Tepeyac near Mexico City. It is as the holiday season approaches that we remember this story and pay tribute to Our Lady of Guadalupe. The public is invited for a traditional service in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe at 1 p.m. on Sunday, December 11 in the Greenwood Mortuary Garden Chapel, 4300 Imperial Avenue in San Diego. Following the service, refreshments and entertainment will be provided.

    “We strive to honor the local community culture with the Our Lady of Guadalupe service,” said JeriAnn Lewis, general manager of Greenwood Memorial Park and Mortuary, a proud member of the Dignity Memorial® network. “We are glad to provide a venue for people to celebrate and pay tribute.”

    Our Lady of Guadalupe is a celebrated Catholic icon of the Virgin Mary. According to tradition, an indigenous peasant, Juan Diego, heard the voice a woman calling to him from the hill of Tepeyac near Mexico City. He ascended the hill to see a woman clothed in light, who asked the Juan Diego to share her request to build a church. The Bishop of Mexico City initially didn’t believe Juan Diego and asked him to return another day with proof. Flowers appeared on the hill, which Juan Diego cut and gathered in his cloak to show the Bishop. When he unfurled his cloak, the flowers spilled out revealing the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Today, the image is displayed in the Basilica of Guadalupe. 

Orchestra Nova San Diego Presents Annual Holiday Spectacular

    Back by popular demand, Orchestra Nova’s joyous, toe-tapping Holiday Spectacular pOps! performance will be presented at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido (CCAE) on Sunday, December 11, at 4:00 p.m.

    This holiday program will feature everyone’s favorite holiday tunes, including classics like Carol of the Bells, White Christmas and Here Comes Santa Claus in addition to more modern fare such as the Polar Express Suite. Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, African Noel, a Klezmer Hanukkah Medley and many more memorable holiday hits will round out the performance. Last – but not least – there will be a sing-a-long for all who want to participate!

    Two choirs will share the stage with Orchestra Nova, the Encore Vocal Ensemble, a community-based musical theatre vocal ensemble and the San Diego North Coast Singers was founded in 1993 in Encinitas. Tickets: orchestranova. org or 858-350-0290 

Hillcrest Wind Ensemble

“Classical Holidays” Saturday, December 17th. at Joan B. Kroc Theater.

    The Hillcrest Wind Ensemble presents its holiday concert “Classical Holidays” at the state of the art Joan B. Kroc Theater. 6845 University Ave., San Diego, Saturday Dec. 17th 7:00 pm. Under the direction of John Winklemen, this award winning 45 piece band will play a program of music for Christmas, Chanukah and New Years.  Local jazz vocalist, Andrea Sperling will join the band in the beautiful, “Merry Christmas Darling” arranged especially for the ensemble. A portion of this concert’s proceeds will benefit the Challenge Center of La Mesa, a non-profit physical rehabilitation facility for children, adults and seniors with physical disabilities. Admission is $15.00 at the door. 

Celebrate The Season at the Lemon Grove Library Holiday Cheer Celebration

    The holidays are coming up quickly and the staff of the Lemon Grove Library, 8073 Broadway, is inviting customers of all ages to visit the library on Wednesday, December 14 at 4 p.m. for an afternoon of holiday cheer. The event will feature a patriotic and holiday music concert by the Navy Region Southwest Brass Quintet, a special presentation by retired Navy Lieutenant Travis Smith, and the graduation ceremony for the library’s Multiplication League. Smith is a substitute teacher currently pursuing his teaching credential and will draw on his life experiences to give a motivational speech at the library. The Multiplication League is an after school library program focusing on third grade math and is taught by Mater Cofield, who is currently pursuing a teaching credential and Master’s of Education from National University. Fifteen students will be graduating from the first session of this program. 

Holiday Lights on the Waterfront

Free South Bay seasonal event
Saturday, December 10, 2011, Chula Vista Harbor
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

    The December nights at the Chula Vista Bayfront will be sparkling with holiday lights. The community is invited to the waterfront’s 1st annual “Holiday on the Bay in Chula Vista” on December 10th from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.  The local merchants & tenants along Chula Vista’s scenic waterfront are celebrating the sights, sounds, tastes and spirit of the season. The lights will be up through December, with the opening ceremony Saturday, December 10th. Bring your family and enjoy the lights on the Bay. South Bay Community Services will have receptacles available for you to bring an unwrapped gift of toy or food to share with those in need

    The Chula Vista Marina and R.V. Park invite everyone into the R.V. Park to their “Winter Wonderland”, a fairy land of lights and free music and refreshments. Strolling minstrels will entertain as you walk along the bay front enjoying the lights. Jay and the Stringrays will be performing. A free holiday reception with free hot chocolate, music and treats will be hosted by the Galley at the Marina.

    At Santa’s Village at Chula Vista Yacht Club children of all ages will be welcomed by Santa and Mrs. Claus for story time, photos, treats and hot beverages. This tradition will occur in the gingerbread house, brought by special delivery from the North Pole by Santa’s Elves.

    On Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011, businesses and residents will promote and benefit from using reusable bags for their holiday and regular shopping needs instead of standard single-use plastic and paper bags.

    To help their shoppers remember, several grocers such as Albertsons, Trader Joe’s and Vons are providing drawings for $25 gift certificates to those shoppers using a reusable bag in their stores.  “Similar types of positive incentive promotions for reusable bags have proven that shoppers have responded positively and some grocers have indicated a 40-60% decrease in disposable bag usage. Clearly it’s an effective promotion,” stated Bolden.

The 61st annual Las Posadas procession culminates with a manger scene in front of the Casa de Estudillo.

    Dec. 11 will mark the 61st annual Las Posadas event in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. The Las Posadas procession is a walking reenactment of the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s search for a birthplace for the Christ child. Everyone is invited to join the candlelit procession and sing traditional holiday songs in both Spanish and English as the players go from inn to inn, asking for symbolic lodging. The procession culminates with a live nativity scene in front of Casa de Estudillo as well as a piñata party.

    This event combines the Anglo custom of caroling with the Hispanic tradition of the procession and the breaking of the piñata.

    Before the procession that takes place at 5 p.m., this event will also feature a daytime celebration and preshow with live music, performances and activities for children from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. A variety of local music and performing arts groups will perform from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

    For children’s entertainment, there will be free craft activities that include making pioneer-style cloth dolls, as well as corn-husk dolls and paper holiday flowers. At end of the festival, there will be a piñata-breaking party following the Las Posadas procession at 6 p.m. Admission to Las Posadas is free. 

Chula Vista Civic Center Serves as Showcase for LED Holiday Lights

    Energy efficient LED lighting will 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 newer and safer energy saving technology.

    By exchanging their traditional incandescent holiday lights for LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting strands, home-owners can reduce energy costs by up to 90%. Also, LEDs last more than 10 times longer than conventional lights, produce a brighter light, and have cooler operating temperatures—making them safe to touch and less likely to cause a fire.

    South Bay residents will also be able to exchange up to three incandescent holiday light strands for energy-efficient, multi-colored LED strands before the Starlight Parade in Chula Vista. The exchange will be held on Saturday, December 3 from 1 to 5 pm at Memorial Park, 373 Park Way.

Starlight Parade Celebrates its 50th Year

    The Starlight Parade is celebrating its 50th year on Saturday, December 3 at 6 p.m. Thousands of people will gather on Third Avenue between H and E streets staking out their viewing spot for the largest nighttime parade in the South County. With over 5,000 participants, the parade includes local high school marching bands, decorated holiday floats, local dance troupes, service organizations, strolling carolers and more.  

    Kick off the holiday season with Chula Vista Mayor Cheryl Cox at the holiday tree lighting ceremony in Memorial Park at 5:30 p.m. The park is located at 373 Park Way. The parade immediately follows the tree lighting.

    Just a reminder a number of east/west street that cross Third Avenue will be closed prior to and during the parade. Those attending either event should watch for traffic signs in the area.

Celebrate the Holidays with Write Out Loud: Giving Season Delights Audiences of All Ages

    Giving Season, Write Out Loud’s annual performance of holiday stories, will be presented on Monday, Dec. 5 at the Old Town Theatre and Tuesday, Dec. 6 in Carlsbad City Library’s Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium. Both performances begin at 7 p.m.

    The program will feature stories and poems by a variety of well-known authors. The lineup includes “Remembrance is Sufficient” by E.B. White, “A Parakeet Named Dreidel” by Isaac Bashevis Singer, “Chaparral Christmas” by O. Henry, “My Christmas Miracle” by Taylor Caldwell, “Christmas Day in the Morning” by Pearl S. Buck and “Christmas Trees” by Robert Frost.

    “Giving Season provides us the opportunity to celebrate the spirit of giving with the community,” noted Artistic Director Veronica Murphy. “The stories, written by some of our favorite authors, are specially selected to appeal to all ages.” 

    Reservations are recommended and can be made on-line at www.writeoutloudsd.com or by calling 619-297-8953. Tickets are $15 for the general public and $13 for senior, student and active military. Children under 18 tickets are $5.

40th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights to ‘Light Up the Bay for Youth’

    STAR/PAL, a San Diego nonprofit that connects law enforcement with underserved youth to build safer communities, is partnering with the 40th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights to host a fundraising evening themed “Light Up the Bay for Youth.” The event will be held the first night of the Parade of Lights, Sunday, December 11 from 5 to 9 p.m. aboard the Maritime Museum’s Berkeley ferry boat.

    The evening gathering will raise critical funds needed to support STAR/PAL athletic, educational and recreational programs. The event will also support the Parade of Lights.

    The Berkeley will offer guests front row seats to the Parade’s elaborate fireworks display at 5:30 which precedes the procession of more than 100 vessels lavishly decorated according to this year’s Parade theme, “Back to the Future.”

    The parade is free to attend. Tickets to the fundraising gala are $35 for a single ticket and $50 for a pair, and may be purchased at www.starpal.org.

    The original channel is a Latino entertainment news channel, ClevverTeVe (http://www.youtube.com/user/ClevverTeVe) and is the first of 96 YouTube partners offering original content.  The Clevver channel videos will range from 60 to 75 seconds and expects to offer 60 new videos a week.

    Co-founder Jorge Maldonado added, “The YouTube original channels initiative will also enable us to expand our international reach. Our new ClevverTeVe channel is designed to tap into the rapidly growing Latino market, hungry for high quality and up-to-date entertainment news content.”