A new year symbolically marks a new start. For Chula Vista, 2011 marks the start of a year-long Centennial Celebration. Our 100^th birthday is a significant milestone, a once-in-a-century opportunity to acknowledge the growth and accomplishments of our great city and its people. It’s a chance to look back and learn about what brought us here today as we look forward to celebrating for Chula Vista’s accomplishments.

Through the end of this year, 100 Centennial Seconds will be presented at the beginning of each council meeting to share something new about the centennial celebration, an interesting story, thought or piece of history that commemorates our 100^th birthday.

Yesterday, people across the nation celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday by cleaning up neighborhoods, erasing graffiti, and visiting the frail or elderly. These actions were a tribute to Dr. King’s life’s work of advancing equality, social justice and opportunity.

The King Holiday and Service Act of 1994, led by the Corporation for National and Community Service, established the King Holiday as the only national holiday designated as a day of service. Chula Vistans can make lasting change through ongoing commitments of service which are invaluable to our city’s long-term success as a caring community.

This year, one of the most significant books in Chula Vista’s History will be published. Written by local resident and retired USD professor Dr. Steven Schoenherr, Chula Vista: A History of People and Progress is a coffee table-style book every Chula Vistan will be proud to own and share.

Decade by decade, this book brings Chula Vista to life through historical facts and personal recollections of the city's land and people. Interviews with residents, business leaders, educators, and local government officials are accompanied by full-color maps of the city’s growth and neighborhoods. Over 200 historic photos highlight development in industry, commerce, politics and culture.

Today, I would like to read some excerpts from chapter two, depicting an event that happened this week nearly 100 years ago.

City of Chula Vista residents asked to serve their community throughout 2011.

CHULA VISTA, Calif. (Jan. 18, 2011) – To honor the spirit of the Martin Luther King Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 17, 2011, Mayor Cheryl Cox today issued a proclamation at the city council meeting to establish the city’s centennial year of 2011 as the Chula Vista Centennial Year of Service. Residents are asked to find ways to serve their neighbors and community throughout 2011.

The City of Chula Vista today announced plans for the Chula Vista Centennial, a yearlong celebration of events and community projects aimed at commemorating the city's history and people throughout 2011.

Planned events include a kick-off concert featuring local performances, Chula Vista Day at the Padres and celebration of Founder's Day. Other important events include a Historic Homes Tour, and the Centennial Year of Service, calling on all residents to give of their time and talent to enhance their community.