The Capistrano Dispatch

CAPISTRANO’S NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS AND SPORTS

John Taylor Throws Hat in Council Race

A Day on (and Off) the Course at San Juan Hills

Rotary Installs New President

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

SPORTS/PAGE 26

SJC LIVING/PAGE 20

J U LY 2 3 – A U G U S T 1 2 , 2 0 1 0 VOLUME 8, ISSUE 14

Serving, and Saving, Capistrano Senior volunteer program saves city more than $250,000 annually E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6

Marta Kin, David Starr, Bill Norris and Wayne Howard are members of the Associated Seniors Action Program, who save the city money by performing duties ranging from checking homes when residents are on vacation to writing parking tickets. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

1

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SAN CLEMENTE Debate ran high through Monday night and into the early morning hours of Tuesday, July 20, in a special City Council meeting regarding the Playa Del Norte project. Just before 2 a.m., following nine hours of presentations and input from more than 70 speakers, San Clemente’s City Council decided to move forward with both a 55-year lease/sale and revitalization of land in North Beach. With the community polarized on the plan and facing off from different corners on the subject, the approval of the project rested on a defining 3-2 vote as the decision to go ahead with LAB Holdings $18 million project ultimately came down to a “yes” vote by Mayor Jim Dahl. The project is a nearly 50,000 square-foot commercial development mostly on the Triangle Site that is an area used for public parking.

DANA POINT

NEWS

NEXT DOOR W H AT ’ S G O I N G O N I N OUR NEIGHBORING TOW N S

On Monday, July 26 at 6 p.m. the Dana Point City Council will conduct a public hearing to consider the California Coastal Commission’s suggested modifications to the Harbor Revitalization Land Use Plan. On June 9, 2010 the CCC modified one of their originally suggested—at an October, 2010 meeting—modifications to the Revitalization Plan that the city had previously accepted. The change added language specifying that building heights for new construction in the harbor should be consistent with the community’s character. Those wishing to speak either in favor or against this item will be given the opportunity at the hearing. Comments will also be accepted in writing. Written comments should be mailed to Dana Point City Council, 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Ste. 203, Dana Point, CA 92629. More information can be found at www.danapoint.org and www.dphplan.com.

San Juan Capistrano’s Top 5 Hottest Topics

What’s Up With...

1

…Another City Council Candidate?

THE LATEST: Los Rios resident John Taylor has announced he will seek a San Juan Capistrano City Council seat in November, when the panel has three openings.

“I am not a politician; I am a neighbor that believes in the rights of property owners. I treasure our small town atmosphere and I am committed to making certain that we chart a course that maintains a fiscally responsible city,” Taylor said in his announcement. “Navigating the hurdles that our city faces in the coming years will take team work, perseverance, commitment and leadership. I will wade through the rhetoric and steer a course for good government while maintaining respect for others.”

Council members Tom Hribrar, Mark Nielsen and Lon Uso are up for re-election. Nielsen has pulled his nomination papers, and Uso in this issue of The Dispatch announced his intention to again seek office. Residents Michael Johnson, Victor Jim Schneider and Clint Worthington have also pulled papers, but not returned them yet.

WHAT’S NEXT: Candidates have until August 6 to file their nomination papers, or August 11 if Hribar does not run again.

Rotarian and Transportation Commissioner Larry Kramer has announced his intention to run.

FIND OUT MORE: See Taylor’s full announcement at The Capistrano Insider blog at www.thecapistranodispatch.com —Jonathan Volzke

2

…A Local Economic Stimulus?

THE LATEST: The City Council on www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Tuesday approved a 75 percent reduction in city sewer, water and traffic fees for hotel and auto-dealer developments.

Those are the only three fees the city has complete control over, officials said.

The measure, which will remain in place a year, passed 3-2. Those who supported it said it was necessary to entice hotels and auto-dealers to town—two industries that return high tax dollars to city coffers.

Mayor Lon Uso and Councilman Mark Nielsen voted against the stimulus plan, saying it was too generous.

WHAT’S NEXT: Capistrano has only one hotel, although two new proposals are in, and has suffered the economic loss of two auto dealerships, although officials said new dealers are also inquiring. The lower fees, they say, will help seal the deals.

FIND OUT MORE: See the staff report at www.thecapistranodispatch.com —JV

3

…Another CUSD Candidate?

THE LATEST: Mission Viejo business owner Lynn Hatton is the newest candidate for the Capistrano Unified School District, announcing she will go after the seat held by Trustee Larry Christensen.

Hatton owns a tutoring and mentoring firm that prepares children for college. She is a UCI graduate.

“President Reagan won his first presidential office by asking the electorate, ‘Are you better off today than you were four years ago?’ And I ask you a variant of that same question today,” Hatton said during her speech announcing her candidacy. “Is our District better and stronger than it was four years ago?

Two years ago? My decision to run for the Board of Trustees is my answer to this question. When I visit other

California school districts, I am reminded that our reputation is sorely tarnished. The Charter School Movement is growing here, class sizes are up, home values are down and many of our strongest employees have gone to work for other districts. Unfortunately, the focus of our current Trustees has been on their adult driven agenda instead of creating an environment of educational excellence for our children.”

She said she will focus on improving student admissions into college.

WHAT’S NEXT: Children First is expected to announce two more candidates for the remaining trustee seats up for election in November. The group, separate from the entity leading the attempted recall of Trustees Mike Winsten and Ken Lopez Maddox, already announced John Alpay of San Clemente and Gary Pritchard of Aliso Viejo as candidates in the recall election.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.hattonforcusd.com or the Beyond the Blackboard blog at www.sanclementetimes. com —JV

4

…A Fire Prevention Effort?

THE LATEST: The Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy is calling for members of the public to become South County Land Stewards (SCLS) Firewatch Volunteers. Volunteers serve as a visible reminder of the need to be extra careful during periods of high fire danger.

SCLS lookouts are in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita and receive an initial two-hour training from Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) personnel and/or OC Parks employees.

Training includes a practice deployment at your assigned site. OCFA and OC Parks firewatch training prepares

volunteers for deployment under conditions of severe fire hazard. On “Red Flag” days, South County Land Stewards will assign pairs of volunteers to wildland vantage points.

WHAT’S NEXT: The training is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, August 18 at Orange County Fire Authority Fire Station #58, Station Way, Ladera Ranch.

Volunteers are assigned to locations near their homes.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.theconservancy.org. —JV

5

…Big Upcoming City Council Decisions?

THE LATEST: The City Council has two large decisions looming that are sure to effect residents citywide—and rankle a few.

On August 3, the council will hold another public hearing on the Distrito La Novia project, a proposal for homes, condos, commercial space and a 775-horse equestrian stable on La Novia above Valle Road.

That hearing is expected to be continued to a special meeting at 5 p.m. on August 12.

Then on September 17, the council will decide whether to implement a .39-centper-water-unit surcharge that will cover the ongoing loss, or a .74-cent surcharge that would recoup the entire MTBErelated loss of $5.2 million over the past two years.

WHAT’S NEXT: City Council meetings start at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.sanjuancapistrano.org —JV

July 23–August 12, 2010 • The Capistrano Dispatch • Page 3

Eye on SJC

TJ Meadows Passes Away Meadows was father of water department and Little League in town

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

T

J Meadows, a lifelong Capistrano resident whose impact is still felt today in areas as diverse as the water department and Little League, passed away on July 16.

He was 84.

A memorial service will be held at the Community Presbyterian Church on Del Obispo Street in San Juan Capistrano at 2 p.m. on July 31. Meadows, who married his high school sweetheart, Virginia Stroschein Meadows, is survived by his children Melody Lopez (Mrs. William), Mr. William Meadows (wife Chris); grandchildren Thomas Walker (wife Burgundee), Jill Collica (Mrs. Matthew), Christina Chavez (Mrs. Johnny), and Kelly MacNeal (Mrs. Thad) and 10 greatgrandchildren.

Meadows’ family ran an ice house in town, right on Camino Capistrano across from the tennis courts. By the time he was 11, Meadows was delivering ice to homes in town. He graduated from the old Capistrano Union High School on Camino Capistrano.

Around 1942, Meadows enlisted in the U.S. Naval Air Force, where he was a navigator who served in the Philippines, said his grandson, Thomas Walker. It was the Navy that likely forced him to take the name “Thomas James,” because he’d been born simply as “TJ,” but nobody, particular governmental agencies,

TJ Meadows. Courtesy photo

believed the initials didn’t stand for something, so he took on “Thomas James.”

“He legally changed his name, but nobody ever called him Thomas or James or Thomas James except my grandmother when she was mad at him,” Walker said.

When he returned, he ran for the water department—a county operation at that time known simply as “Orange County Water Works No. 4.”

Community Loses Marco Forster Services set Friday at Mission Basilica

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

M

arco T. Forster passed away on July 19 at his home in San Juan Capistrano.

Marco was born December 3, 1969 to Thomas A. Forster and Mary Jane Forster Foley in South Laguna.

He was a seventh-generation, San Juan Capistrano native. As a boy, he attended Old Mission School, where he was a star basketball player and served as President of the Student Body and King of Swallows Day festivities. He graduated from Capistrano Valley High School in 1988 and attended Saddleback Valley Community College, where he focused on the fine and technical arts. He was employed by Moulton Niguel Water District. On April 17, he married his long-term sweetheart, Sharon Lynn Forster nee Mageno.

Marco was a talented musician and artist, a surfer, a man of service, an incomparable storyteller. He will be remembered as a treasured friend, a beloved husband, and a cherished son and brother.

He is survived by his wife Sharon; his mother Mary Jane Foley and her husband John V. Foley; his sister Christa M. Forster and her husband David A. Brown; his brother Carlos A. Forster and his wife Celine Bleu; and his sister Alicia F. Forster. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

All services will be held at the San Juan Capistrano Mission Basilica: Rosary and Memorial Service were Thursday, July 22 at 7 p.m.; funeral on Friday, July 23 at 10 a.m.

The Orange County Coroner’s Division said Thursday that the cause of death has not been Page 4 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

“He did everything,” Walker said. “If there was a water leak, sewer leak, or something at the reservoirs, that was his responsibly…Many times, he’d be out supervising or actually getting muddy at 2 a.m. when something broke … the buck stopped for him. He never expected someone to do a job he wouldn’t do himself or couldn’t do himself.”

He also served as a captain in the volunteer fire department, Walker said.

Meadows also served on the elementary-school board with Harold Ambuehl, Marco Forster and Fred Newhart and was active at Community Presbyterian Church. It was there that the pastor, Chuck Griffin, created a youth activities committee, where he, Betty Forster and Meadows came up with the idea for a local Little League.

“TJ ran with the idea, so he became the father of the Little League,” Pat Forster said. “We started playing in 1953.”

At one time, Meadows and his wife also ran a small market on Camino Capistrano, about where the driveway into the Mission offices is now. “It was a breadand-milk market, everything you’d find in a 7-Eleven now, but that was the late 40s or early 50s...the Mission would have been their landlord.”

Meadows retired from the water department and lived in what was once water-district headquarters on Andres Pico on the hill above the Mission. He spent his final years in his little Yellow House across from San Juan Elementary School. CD

Boys and Girls Club Reps in Germany The Capistrano Dispatch

T

TJ Meadows. Courtesy photo

determined.

The family requests that donations, in lieu of flowers, be sent in memory of Marco T. Forster to the Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano Valley, One Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. Secure online donations may be made at http://bgccapo. com/donate/select.htm. CD

een member Jose Zamarripa and Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley Director Laurie Rodriguez are in Europe after being selected to attend the Military European Keystone Conference themed “Beyond All Limits!” in Garmisch, Germany.

They will return on July 30.

Jose also was selected this past year to serve on the steering committee for Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) National Keystone Conference held in Pittsburgh. Rodriguez was recently named National Keystone Advisor of the Year.

BGCA has been serving all branches of our military and their families for more than 15 years. More than 100 participating teens from military bases including Germany, Italy, Portugal and England will have an opportunity to network and share ideas and projects at the conference. The Keystone Club is the Boys & Girls Club Movement’s most dynamic teen program. It affords teens an opportunity to gain valuable leadership and service experience. BGCA provides Clubs with the tools and resources to create a positive place for teens as well as for kids.

The conference sessions are based on the three focus areas of “Keystoning” —Academic Success, Career Preparation and Community Service. There will be general sessions, a series of small group sessions, outdoor adventure team-building activities, guest speakers, and community-service projects. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Eye on SJC

Serving, and Saving, Capistrano Volunteer police services group saves city more than $250,000 a year

By Christina Scannapiego The Capistrano Dispatch

V

ivienne DaCosta is what you’d call a “charter member” of San Juan Capistrano’s Associated Senior Action Program [ASAP]—an organization that has saved the city upward of $250,000 per year—having first started volunteering for police services back in 1992, the year of the program’s inception.

“I just thought it was something I’d be interested in,” she recalled of what initially sparked her to join.

DaCosta’s kids were in school at the time and although she spent most days running her home business, the notion of dedicating her efforts to San Juan Capistrano’s Police Services sounded fun. “And it is fun,” she said. “It’s an adventure. No two days are ever alike.”

For three days every week, DaCosta will greet anyone who enters the Sheriff’s trailer from her seat at the front desk. In fact, she—along with program coordinator, Peggy Nunes—helps organize the total of about 1,000 hours per month (or over 11,000 hours per year) the group of 31 members, as a whole, commits to the city. She’s performed many other duties for the program in the past, though (like van patrol, until her partner quit), and she does mostly work the front desk these days, but “I get all kinds of strange things,” she said. According to DaCosta, most who walk through the front doors are just in need of a little guidance, whether that comes in the form of help paying parking fines, finding the tow yard, filling out correct parking permits for certain vehicles—some people even conduct their child custody changes there. Aside from addressing these run-of-the-mill occurrences, DaCosta helps people in many different types of situations who look to the Sheriff’s trailer for aid. “We guide them along to where they can go to get help,” whether it’s a man who felt ill while driving down the freeway and located them per his GPS or residents who pop in, trying to settle a neighbor dispute.

“Sometimes they’re happy once they tell you their story. Even though we can’t give legal advice, they just want an ear to listen to them,” she admitted.

But beyond deskwork, ASAP members stay busy with a range of duties. Any of their one or two shifts per week may include clerical tasks, running errands or manning the kiosk at the train station on weekends, where they hand out tourism brochures to visitors get-

Members of Capistrano’s ASAP program are: Jim Allen Les Blair Hans Blank Joy Bolles Paula Brimhall Lorraine Cryer Vivienne DaCosta Tom Densham Nadine Duncan Peggy Ford Karl Gittleman Bernie Hale Tom Hammer Miles Harris Curtis Holman Jan Holman Joan Hood

Wayne Howard Bob Johnson Art Jones Marta Kin Shig Kinoshita Roy Love Ted Manning Ed Masten Bill Norris Red Rawlings John Schmidt Jim Sparks David Starr Betty Tolzien Ed Ward Alan Weddel Dave Weiss

Page 6 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

ASAP Wayne Howard gives directions to some visitors at the train depot on Thursday morning. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

ting off the train, ensure safe railroad crossing, monitor smoking, alcohol, dog-off-leash and bike rules and offer directions or restaurant recommendations.

Sometimes they provide traffic control at events like school open houses, Swallow’s Day Parade or citywide emergencies (like major wildfires). Oftentimes the ASAPs on duty will monitor parking structures and issue appropriate parking citations—but perhaps the biggest services the ASAPs offer the Sheriff’s Department are the van, bike and foot patrols. They survey parks and neighborhoods, performing home checks for residents on vacation, patrolling residential streets and business districts for graffiti, unattended open garage or front doors in areas where there have been recent thefts and generally looking for anything fishy or off—they even inspect every single city storm drain before an impending rain to make sure they’re clear of debris that could cause flooding.

“Their services are priceless to us and to the city,” said San Juan Capistrano’s Chief of Police Services, Lt. Dan Dwyer. “They’re a great team—whatever their duties are, they’re fantastic. You see them all over the place.”

But for as much precautionary service the unit provides, one of the volunteers’ mottos is: “Stay out of harm’s way.” Deputies are available for instant response and, once in a blue moon, they’re needed.

Volunteers may have all the cool things that come with volunteering, like radios, badges, uniforms and official vehicles but they don’t carry weapons and have no intention of acting out a police role.

A team of volunteers may be on traffic control and a driver decides to force through. They may notice a door or window open at one of the homes on their Vacation Check list and they’ll need to radio in right away, upon which deputies will arrive within minutes.

In other instances, the recipient of a traffic ticket may become enraged and tear the ticket up or begin a barrage of ugly words. Sometimes an emergency will come by way of Mother Nature and ASAP patrollers will need to call authorities when they’ve crossed paths with a rattlesnake loose in a neighborhood populated with lots of kids or a wounded deer, hit by a car.

Whatever the scene, help is always just a radio call away.

But the ASAPs aren’t just about keeping order.

Perhaps one of the biggest ways they give back to the community is through their elderly support program, which provides seniors without any nearby family members or support system with a daily phone call and routine check-up via van patrol (they don’t provide any sort of medical assistance, however). “It just gives them that extra sense of security, even if we’re just calling to say, ‘Hi, how are you today?’” DaCosta said of the effort. “One lady that I can think of was really active and healthy, but she just felt really at ease that someone called her everyday. When you get into your 80s, things happen, no matter how healthy you are. She’s just moved to New York an we actually really miss talking to her.”

And rightfully, ASAP members receive all the appreciation they deserve. DaCosta’s fellow “charter member,” Joan Hood was recently recognized during the Spirit of Volunteerism Awards presented by the Volunteer Center Orange County for her work, through ASAP, demonstrating outstanding leadership. Plus, after every member reaches the 3,000-hour mark of time donated, his or her name is engraved on an ASAP monument at the Historic Town Center Park. The monument so far boasts 30 names and one member is chosen, annually, as Volunteer of the Year and presented with the Colleen Campbell Distinguished Service award. “Whenever they ask us to help, we help,” DaCosta says of their assistance to Police Services, Community Services and the like.

“When things come up last minute, bam, they’re right there,” agreed Dwyer. “As soon as something comes up and we put the call out, they’re the first to raise up their mitt and say, ‘Hey, I’m here.’”

In fact, according to DaCosta, the program is trying to boost its numbers to 50 volunteers. “We want to make the effort to double their membership,” Dwyer affirmed. “There’s such a strong sense of camaraderie among them—they’re really a jewel of the city.” *ASAP of San Juan Capistrano is currently recruiting new members for next year. For more information, please contact Peggy Nunes at 949.443.6370. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Eye on SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter C o m p i l e d b y C h r i st i n e J o n as All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Web site (www.ocsd.org) and reflects data available from calls placed from the field by the responding officer(s). An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

Wednesday, July 21 SUSPICION PERSON Del Obispo Street, 32200 Block (4:31 p.m.) A church called because “squatters” where living in a van in the church parking lot and the church wanted them removed.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Belford Drive/Rosedale Drive (7:59 a.m.) Two men in camouflage gear appeared to be locked out of their car.

A caller thought that was suspicious.

VEHICLE CODE VIOLATION Village Road/Rancho Viejo Road (7:33 a.m.) Several cars were in the way of construction work.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Alipaz Street, 32000 Block (2:02 a.m.) A woman heard noise and called deputies because someone has been throwing eggs recently.

Monday, July 19 DISTURBANCE Via Montura, 31900 Block (1:13 p.m.) A woman’s estranged husband still lives at home and he locked her out of the bedroom.

DISTURBANCE Ramos Street, 31600 Block (10:36 a.m.) A homeless man was harassing people. He wore an Army shirt, colorful boxers and boots.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Paseo Adelanto/ Del Obispo Street (5:01 a.m.) A vagabond was seen yelling at another man yesterday. The caller saw him again and he appeared aggressive, so he wanted deputies to make sure he was safe.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Ortega Highway/San Diego Freeway- 5 (8:37 p.m.)

A man called to report a local gas station employee, because he was mopping the ground with soap and water and he was concerned other customers would fall. The caller slipped and fell right next to the sign that said “wet floor” and appeared to be drunk. He described the employee as looking like the scarecrow from the Wizard of Oz.

Sunday, July 18 SUSPICIOUS PERSON Valle Road, 32800 Block (7:55 p.m.) A 17-year-old girl called to report her neighbor was taking pictures of her and her family while they were playing soccer. The neighbor told her they weren’t allowed to play there.

DISTURBANCE www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Paseo Carmel, 26400 Block (12:22 a.m.) Four to five adults were drinking in a garage and in the alley. They also were letting their children play in the alley. They were making a lot of noise.

Via Sonora, 31200 Block (1:03 p.m.) A man called because his neighbor kept trying to get his mother in contact with his daughter, and he doesn’t want that happening.

Saturday, July 17

FIREWORK VIOLATION Via Cristal, 31100 Block (11:05 a.m.) A man reported his neighbor setting off illegal fireworks. His neighbor does fireworks daily, the caller said.

KEEP THE PEACE Valley Rim Circle, 27500 Block (6:49 p.m.) A mother called wanting a welfare check on her daughter. She spoke with her yesterday, but believes she was missing. She refused to answer any questions about it, though.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Los Rios Street, 31700 Block (11:34 a.m.) A white Mercedes was facing the wrong direction on the road and blocking traffic.

CITIZEN ASSIST Peppertree Bend, 32200 Block (9:39 a.m.) A mother reported her son because he has been stealing money from her and refused to get out of bed to speak to her.

Friday, July 16 SUSPICIOUS PERSON Spotted Bull Lane, 29500 Block (11:51 p.m.) A strong scent of marijuana was moving through the neighborhood. The caller wanted police to search for where it was coming from.

WELFARE CHECK Via Del Rey, 25600 Block (8:41 p.m.) A group of teenagers, three boys and one girl, were loitering at the park. One of them was stumbling and vomiting. He appeared to be under the influence of something.

BATTERY Camino Capistrano, 33100 Block (6:02 p.m.) A man called to report his former boss for pushing him into a table after he gave his notice to quit.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Old San Juan Road/ Alipaz Street (1:13 p.m.) A 55year-old man named Tony was sleeping in the front yard.

Thursday, July 15 DISTURBANCE Calle La Purisima/Via Barcelona (11:50 p.m.) A caller wanted to report a group of teenagers in an alley having a gathering with loud music. The caller was concerned because there were children around 8 years old running around. No one over the age of 21 was present.

DISTURBANCE Smoketree Lane, 26400 Block (10:10 p.m.) A caller reported a party in an open garage across the street.

The caller asked them to quiet down and they turned the music even louder.

DISTURBANCE Mariner Drive, 25600 Block Ten to 15 teenagers were drinking alcohol, smoking and swimming in the community pool with a very large dog.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Ortega Highway/Rancho Viejo Road (1:45 a.m.)

A group of teenagers were playing chicken with traffic. They almost got hit by several cars.

Wednesday, July 14 CITIZEN ASSIST

PROWLER Paseo El Marmol, 30800 Block (1:34 a.m.) A woman called because she was worried. She heard footsteps outside her house. When she turned the lights on the noise stopped. When she turned the light off they began again, she said.

Tuesday, July 13 SUSPICIOUS PERSON Calle Lucana, 26500 Block (11:09 p.m.) A woman called and said people were moving things around in her front yard. Since it was so dark, she thought they didn’t know she was home and were trying to break in.

CITIZEN ASSIST Cerro Rebal/Via Romona (7:13 p.m.)

A man was on the hillside with a machete to clear the brush and ride his motorcycle. It’s an ongoing problem.

TRESPASSING Alipaz Street, 32100 Block (3:08 p.m.)

A woman reported a trespasser living on her property.

The woman had some of his personal property.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Plaza Drive, 31800 Block (4:23 a.m.) A caller reported someone driving around the parking lot in circles.

They had driven past the shop three times in three minutes. It was freaking him out.

Monday, July 12 DISTURBANCE Alipaz Stree, 32300 Block (10:07 p.m.) Residents were yelling very loudly. One resident was inside and the other was outside.

WELFARE CHECK Rancho Viejo Road, 31600 Block (10:32 a.m.) An older lady called to report that someone has been tapping her phone line and that someone made a copy of the key to her home. She believed they were trying to hurt her.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Via Buena, 32100 Block (9:35 a.m.) A hysterical woman called to report an electric scooter rider attempted to run her over.

Sunday, July 11 ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Camino Capistrano/ Junipero Serra Road (7:43 p.m.)

Two small dogs were running in traffic lanes, causing cars to swerve all over the place and nearly collide.

DISTURBANCE Camino De Vista, 26300 Block (2:39 a.m.) A man heard a woman scream “Get Out!” from a nearby apartment.

DISTURBANCE Los Rios Street, 31500 Block (10:18 p.m.) Ten male subjects were by the garages being loud and drinking alcohol.

July 23–August 12, 2010 • The Capistrano Dispatch • Page 7

SOAPBOX

2

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.thecapistranodispatch.com

HOW TO REACH US EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Jonathan Volzke, 949.388.7700, x108 jvolzke@thecapistranodispatch.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@thecapistranodispatch.com BILLING Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 8, Issue 14. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes. com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

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LON USO: My Turn

D

public speaker, something that has terrified me my entire life. It has forced me to become a better listener; something that I think will serve me well the rest of my life. I have learned so much in this job and for this I will be eternally grateful to the people of San Juan Capistrano.

I intend to run on my record. I realize that it is imperfect and there are decisions that I regret but I truly believe that the great majority of my votes have been solid. As in my personal life, I have been imperfect.

I’ve made decisions that I regretted but made many more that made me happy and successful, personally and financially. As you judge my performance in office I would ask you to think of any one person that you know that has achieved perfection in their lives or that you agree with 100 percent of the time.

If someone tells you that they have been or will be perfect and who has or will always make decisions to your liking, run as fast as you can from them as they are clearly egotistical, narcissistic and delusional or are simply lying to you. Personally, I believe that before we can learn from our mistakes we must be willing to admit to them.

Another important lesson that I learned in my many years of practice is the power of “TRUST.” This commodity is difficult to get and easy to lose. It must be earned and then carefully nurtured. I have tried to retain that trust that you placed in me four years ago by being as honest with you as any normal human

Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne INTERNS Chris Bashaw, Sarah Guidas Christine Jonas, Rachel Namson, Kirsten Amavisca Sacher SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, George Mackin CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, David Zimmerle

ONLINE READER POLLS

Whether to Run Again ear Neighbors, I thought that making the decision to run for council four years ago was tough but deciding to run again has actually been tougher.

For one thing, I said then that I would only serve one term. Today, my runLON USO ning again will be perceived by some and portrayed by my detractors as a broken promise.

So be it.

I have spent the last few weeks talking to folks that supported me, as well as some who opposed me when I originally ran so as to get a feel for the kind of job that they all think I have done. Although not unanimous, I found a very interesting and varying mix of support and encouragement. For this and other reasons, I have decided to run again for City Council.

I will tell you that my experience on council has been varied; from great pride and satisfaction to great humility and anger. I think, for the most part I have learned to curb that anger and to turn it into greater, peaceful dedication to what I believe in. When I was first elected four years ago, as a 55-year-old doctor with almost 30 years of practical experience, I thought that I was a fully grown and capable man. What I found out was that I had a lot to learn about myself. This job has given me an opportunity to stretch as a human being, to learn to work cooperatively with others without giving up my core values. I have learned to be a better

Billing/Collections Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Make sure to sound off each week on “The Dispatch Poll of the Week” at www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

Then go to our community Message Board and share your opinions.

The Dispatch Online Reader Polls are not scientific and do not reflect the opinion of The Dispatch.

being can be, often to my own disadvantage. I have never turned away from tough issues or questions whether from a resident or a reporter. I have written columns on subjects that most elected officials avoid like the plague, I don’t change my position based on the person that I am talking to but I have allowed those conversations to sway me when the facts and logic in them was sufficiently compelling. Because of that, many of those folks that disagree with me vehemently on issues respect the fact that I speak frankly and openly.

I will again run without seeking or accepting endorsements, whether from fellow electeds, previous Council Members, political parties or organizations, unions, etc.

I believe that full independence is absolutely essential.

The only endorsement I require is your vote. I hope that I have earned it.

Gratefully, Dr. Lon Uso Lon Uso is a longtime Capistrano dentist who was elected to the City Council in 2006. His colleagues selected him Mayor this year.

MARK NIELSEN: Straight Talk

Black and White Decisions? Not Here!

W

ith all the recent projects coming before the city, it is hard to believe that we are in a down economy. The Distrito project off La Novia and Valle, a hotel next to the Mission, another hotel at Stonehill and the 5, new car dealers to replace MARK closed ones, a new building at Pedro’s, NIELSEN an expansion of Costco, a possible return of Home Depot to Lower Rosan, and the list goes on. These private projects are in addition to pending public projects ranging from the Riding Park and lemon grove we recently acquired, to a downtown master plan to workforce housing by Junipero Serra and Camino Capistrano, to a long-term strategic plan.

Page 8 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

While all this activity is encouraging, it also raises numerous issues regarding impacts to our community and citizens. The challenge is how to deal with each issue in a way that balances the needs of the city overall with concerns of residents most directly impacted, as well as the rights of the private landowner. This difficulty is compounded in an election year when the right decision may not be the most advantageous politically. While it is probably easier and smarter to avoid decisions or talking specifics until after the election, that makes politics more important than doing the right thing (which is the main reason some of us sought election in the first place).

I committed four years ago to communicate the thinking behind my actions as part of a renewal of transparency in our city government. Not only am

I happy to explain my decisions after the fact, but it is helpful to be candid about all the various competing concerns and issues we are trying to balance for the overall city while discussing major projects like those above.

Underlying consideration of the various development projects is the reality of insuring we have a sustainable city far into the future. Our 20 year long term strategic plan shows we cannot merely continue the status quo.

To do so would result in a bankrupt city or at the very least a huge reduction in services and our quality of life.

Therefore revenue growth over future years must be considered. We also have a Redevelopment Agency that has a limited number of years left to collect 60 percent of property taxes for new development versus the mere 10 percent the city normally receives. Encouraging (Cont. on page 10) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

Parents’ Group Introduces First Trustee Candidates GUEST OPINION: By Gary Pritchard

Weathering the Storm until Fall F amilies and businesses alike have been hit from all sides in this ongoing economic storm with very little in the way of protection provided from either our state legislators or congressional representatives. Like many families in Orange County, we have had to tighten our belts. When we purchased our home in 2006, it was a financial stretch for us and sacrifices were necessary but we knew that South Orange County with its good schools, open spaces, and close proximity to the beach was right for our family. In spite of the economy, we feel we made the right decision and have no plans to leave our community.

The main factor in making South Orange County our home was the quality schools. Our daughter loved her pre-school and we wanted her to do well in her new elementary school. This year our daughter completed First Grade and because of her teacher’s guidance and wisdom she has made great strides. For our family, teachers are key to education.

As a dad, homeowner and taxpayer, I am troubled how money has been taken away from my daughter’s classroom to be spent on attorney fees and questionable settlements. Over the last year, it seems like our trustees have only served to create more chaos in our schools. With parents losing their jobs and homes, our children don’t need anymore disorder in their lives.

I believe we can weather this storm but need trustees who can see beyond the squall. We need trustees who are willing to roll out a long-term plan that would marshal a stronger partnership between parents and board. We don’t need myopic bureaucrats with Nielsen (Cont. from page 8) development sooner in agency areas means many millions of dollars to the city that otherwise would be lost.

Yet I believe the revenue must be balanced with the preservation of our unique historical and equestrian character. Ultimately, will a project overall enhance or detract from our future character? The location, architecture, landholder rights and likely alternatives all play a role. In the case of the Distrito project, I was upset that a previous council approved a 440-home development around the old landfill that would over the long

short-term borrowing schemes in charge of our children’s education. Running the district on our reserves temporarily fixes some of the mess until the November election but Gary Pritchard it does not lay out a plan of action going forward.

Our district desperately needs to find its way past Sacramento budgeting schemes with a long-term plan that reflects the consensus of not only board members but also the community. At bottom, this plan must focus on what our students need to reach their highest potential.

I believe a plan of this sort begins with an open dialogue between parents, community members, and a board open to new ideas. Unfortunately at this point, our trustees have built a wall between the community and themselves. Any ideas they may have will irrevocably be met with suspicion.

After much discussion with family and friends, I have decided to run for school board. As a parent I want to see our trustees become advocates on behalf of students and educational programs.

As a taxpayer, I want to know that they are working with city council members, state legislators and congressional representatives to keep our tax dollars in our classrooms. As a homeowner in the district, I want them to defend public schools whenever they are under attack.

This is why I am running for CUSD board.

Aliso Viejo resident Gary Pritchard is running for the CUSD board of trustees in the recall election of Trustee Ken Lopez Maddox. See more about him at www. pritchardforcusd.com.

term cost the city more than it would generate in property taxes. I urged the landowner to reopen that entitlement and drastically reduce the number of homes in exchange for consideration of a residential/retail project across the street. We formed a council committee with residents and the landowner to come up with alternatives.

While there are clearly issues with the current plan, I struggle with the fact that denying it and returning to the previous plan would disrupt three times the amount of landfill, would produce far less revenue to the city, would have less open space and would still result in thousands of daily car trips (though

Page 10 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

GUEST OPINION: By John Alpay

Taxpayers, Children and Homeowners T his September, our oldest child Autumn will enter kindergarten at a Capistrano Unified school. In many ways it will mark a right of passage, as my wife and I watch our daughter take a significant step in her growth and development. Perhaps a tear of joy will be shed, but without doubt we will be proud of her and beam with pride.

But in the era of the Great Recession, we can only wonder as to what kind of public education she and her two younger siblings will receive in the coming years. Sacramento has proven itself to be an absolute disaster as revenues to Capistrano Unified continue to decline year over year. Larger class sizes, deferred maintenance and fewer personnel are the new norms. Every dollar received becomes treasured that much more.

Sadly, Capistrano Unified has been in turmoil for years. Multiple battle lines have long since been drawn with all sides accusing the others of the most heinous offense of our time: Financial mismanagement. Partisan examples abound, from the “Taj Mahal” district headquarters built at great taxpayer expense, to the alleged largess of previous union contracts, to the recent retainer by the board of not less than 652 outside attorneys, to the well known out of court settlements of taxpayer dollars that benefit only certain key campaign contributors.

We have lost sight of the fact that proper use of taxpayer dollars and education of our children are the primary purposes of Capistrano Unified. Focus on these two points brings a third benefit: Sustainable property values. Misuse of taxpayer money and poor educational choices for our children make neighborhoods less attractive, creating another justification for already declining home prices.

As a taxpayer, father and homeowner, I recognize the need to restore sanity and common sense to Capistrano Unified. And so I have chosen to seek a seat on the Board of Trustees. Perhaps it is Mission Impossible, but on some level

less than the new plan). The Planning Commission supported the stable and 93 homes, but raised issues with the part across the street. The planning staff supported the project. I am also trying to retain our equestrian character with future State and Federal regulations threatening existing stables. This must be balanced with concerns from nearby neighbors that did not expect our equestrian character to be closer than it is today. These are not easily answered, but these and

I believe that I would be negligent in my efforts to make the best opportunities available to my children and to maintain as much as my limited personal wealth as possible if I John Alpay did not step forward to meet the challenge.

In making this decision, I have sought out the advice, counsel and wisdom of a diverse group of citizens from all walks of life and different perspectives. The one common thread among them is the conviction that we can and must restore the beacon of light that was once Capistrano Unified.

And consistent with this effort, my campaign will not accept the support of certain interest groups, more specifically unions and trial attorney advocacy groups. To be clear, I support teachers and staff as individuals because they create the appropriate environment in which my children will learn. As for trial attorneys, I support them as individuals too because I work and interact with them on a daily basis in my job. That being said, both groups have secondary interests in Capistrano Unified and I do not wish to be beholden to anybody other than taxpayers, children and homeowners.

In launching my campaign, I am reminded that the word “autumn” signifies a time of change. When our daughter Autumn was born approximately five years ago, she forever altered the lives of all around her, especially me and my wife. And now as she is on the verge of becoming a newly minted student, it is my hope that Autumn’s arrival at school will mark the beginning of positive change for Capistrano Unified as well.

San Clemente resident John Alpay is running against Trustee Mike Winsten in the November 2 recall election. See more at www.johnalpay.com

other considerations are what I and my council colleagues must figure out in the coming months. I welcome and encourage your input as I continue my own struggle with these issues. I commit to discuss my thinking openly with anyone and look for your feedback on this as well as the other projects.

It should make for an interesting summer.

Businessman Mark Nielsen was elected to the City Council in 2006. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX ROBB CERRUTI: Guest View

Good for the City, Residents and Businesses

I

’m not just the developer of the proposed Meadows project, I’m a resident of San Juan and grew up here in the city. My wife, kids and I have a stake in our community and I am personally committed to bringing a high-quality project to the city that adds value, provides open space and gives residents some new shopping and entertainment alternatives.

Less Density: The proposal we have before the city is not a choice between no development or development, but rather a choice between two developments. We have worked earnestly over the last three years with the city, to develop a plan that reduces residential density, increases open space, preserves the equestrian lifestyle, formally closes the Forster Canyon Landfill and improves the city’s financial position through payment of fees, increased property tax base and long term tax revenue. The Meadows and Distrito La Novia plan does all of this. The proposed Meadows development is an amended, smaller plan compared to the project that is currently entitled to move forward. This entitled project includes 440 homes, a 300-room, 5-story hotel and a 9-acre development for a school, office, etc. While this would be a good project, we agreed to work with the city and a committee of local residents to see if a better project could be built.

This revised project would have a significantly reduced number of homes, a mixed-use shopping center, offices and a state of the art equestrian facility. After taking the ideas that were discussed by this subcommittee of city leaders and residents and working with our architect and engineers, we ended up with a plan that has a total of 94 single family detached homes, 90 condominiums and 50 apartments, which is 206 units or 46 percent fewer housing units than the entitled project. The newly proposed project provides a convenient, high-quality shopping destination in the eastern section of San Juan and is not a “massive retail complex” as some have suggested. To put this into scale, it is about the same size as the Marbella Plaza.

The Meadows also leaves a great deal of the property undeveloped that would not be saved in the original plan. Under the newly revised proposal the Meadows preserves 62 percent of the property as open space.

This translates to 90 acres of open space on private land that will incorporate a state of the art equestrian facility and preserve approximately 60 acres that is currently approved for housing. As a part of this open space, we will be constructing and maintaining over a mile of trails that will provide a vital link from the city’s open space to the San Juan Creek Trail. To ensure the public has access to these great trails we will be provid-

Rendering of condos at proposed Meadows project. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Map compares density and open space between currently entitled project (left) with the proposed “Meadows” project (right).

ing a trail head staging area parking lot on The Meadows, as well as two separate lookout points along the new trails to enjoy the views from the property.

Traffic Improvements: Being a resident, I know firsthand that traffic is a critical element with any project in town. This is why we have spent over $100,000 for traffic engineers to study the potential traffic impacts from our project.

These professional engineers studied 25 intersections in town, factoring in both current and future developments, to assess potential project impacts and prescribe appropriate traffic improvements as outlined in the city’s General Plan. The environmental impact report, prepared by the city and professional engineers, concluded that, with the prescribed mitigation measures, there would be no negative long term impacts to the community. In addition, the city’s Traffic Commission unanimously approved the traffic study and mitigation measures. We have thoroughly analyzed this issue and the city has also concluded

that this development option has less daily trips than the already approved plan. If approved, we will take the lead in getting the off ramp from the I-5 Freeway aligned with La Novia along with other improvements in town.

The city’s fee structure outlines that our project would be subjected to the payment of approximately $2.5 million in fees to the city’s traffic improvement fund for additional improvements in town.

Continuing Our Equestrian Heritage: Our new plan addresses the need for more equestrian facilities within our city. As it stands now, the Ortega Equestrian Facility is most likely closing in the next few years. When that occurs there will be hundreds of horses displaced and nowhere to go locally. San Juan Capistrano is the Equestrian Capital of the West Coast and the equestrian community is vital to our local economy. Maintaining and embracing this heritage is critical to preserving San Juan. This proposed facility is significantly less dense than what the city’s code allows.

The new equestrian facilities will be state of the art, utilizing the latest technologies that will be a showcase facility in the equestrian community.

Our team is committed to “doing the right thing” for San Juan Capistrano, which is why we have voluntarily cut our approved density in half. Our proposal is a more diverse plan that builds upon the city’s heritage. I hope this letter will serve to answer the questions of those that are unsure of the proposed Meadows project and will give you the confidence to come out and support this plan. I’m not just a developer, I’m a neighbor, and I’m raising a family here. Quality of life in San Juan is paramount for me and this project will help enhance the quality of life of residents throughout our community.

If you still have any questions or concerns with this project that you would like to ask me please don’t hesitate to call or e-mail me at my contact information listed below.

Capistrano resident Robb Cerruti is Vice President, Advanced Real Estate Services, Inc. Reach him at 949.595.5900, rcerruti@advancedonline.com July 23–August 12, 2010 • The Capistrano Dispatch • Page 11

GETTING OUT

YOUR FOURTEEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

THE LIST A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town the next two weeks.

COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

friday23

GO SEE DO

This year’s theme, “The Beat Goes On,” celebrates the 120th year of the Orange County Fair. From July 16 through August 15 (Wednesday through Sunday), the annual celebration of the OC’s communities, interests and heritage promises fun for everyone.

Favorites such as deep fried foods, rides, art, animals, carnival rides, music and a whole lot more will be returnPhoto by Heidi Mefferd ing. Single day tickets are available online through www.ticketmaster.com, using TicketFast, Ticketmaster’s print-at-home option. Super Pass tickets are available at the gates for $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and $20 for children and are valid for entry every day of the fair.

Super Pass holders are also eligible for event discounts and

7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. A must-see live music at The Vintage. 26701 B Verdugo St., SJC, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

JANN BROWNE

8:30 p.m. Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

CRAFT DAY

MULTICULTURAL ARTS MUSIC CONCERT

wednesday28

8 p.m.-9 p.m. Fun and learning at Caspers Wilderness Park every Saturday night. Free. 33401 Ortega Hwy., SJC, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com.

6:30 p.m.; 8:30 p.m. Two-time Grammy award winning Brazilian singer, guitarist, and songwriter Dori Caymmi will perform two shows in the courtyard of the San Juan Capistrano Library.

Admission $10 adults, $5 kids. 31495 El Camino Real, SJC, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

8 p.m. A classic Shakespeare play as part of the ongoing Capistrano Shakespeare Festival at Comino Real Playhouse.

Tickets $20. 31776 El Camino Real, SJC, 949.489.8082, www.capistranocenter.com/capistranoshakespeare.htm.

sunday25

MAD CADDIES

8 p.m. Rock and roots reggae at The Coach House.

Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

SOCSA SUMMER MUSICAL

7 p.m. An award-winning cast of the South Orange County School of the Arts presents the romantic musical Once on the Island with only two more performances only in Porthole Theater at Dana Hills High School. Tickets $12 adults, $10 students, seniors, kids.

33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.240.1994, www.socsarts.org.

saturday24 THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD

10 a.m.-12 p.m. Kids can build their own wooden train or plane at Gepetto’s wooden toy workshop at Goin Native. Take-home project & snack provided. Cost $50. 31661 Los Rios St., SJC, 949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.

5TH MARINES CAR WASH

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Support the Dana Point 5th Marines by getting your car washed at South Shores Church. Events includes free barbecue food, officials’ vehicle display and more. Donations accepted. 32712 Crown Valley Pkwy., Dana Point, 949.378.7984, www.danapoint5thmarines.com.

PET ADOPTION

10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Ark of San Juan hosts a pet adoption at PetsPlus. 28991 Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel, 949.388.0034, www.ArkOfSanJuan.org.

MUSIC UNDER THE STARS

HEARTLESS

8 p.m. Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

PINBACK

8 p.m. Popular band at The Coach House. Also featuring Venus Infers. Tickets $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

KAI KALAMA SHOW

6 p.m. The soulful Hawaiian singer and American Idol finalist performs at Hulaville Island Café & Company Store.

2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com.

monday26 11 a.m. National Charity League Sunshine Readers offer energetic and entertaining stories for kids of all ages at the SJC library. 31494 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

OLD CAPISTRANO FARMERS MARKET

3 p.m.–7 p.m. Every Wednesday at El Camino Real and Yorba; 949.493.4700.

BEACH DAY

2 p.m. Activity day at the library featuring a beach theme, games, crafts and fun. Free. 31495 El Camino Real, SJC, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

LADIES SELF DEFENSE CLASS

7 p.m.-8 p.m. Self-defense class for women also with exercises for improving health and fitness. Drop-ins $10. First class free. Zax Studios of Martial Arts, 33155 Camino Capistrano Suite B, SJC, 949.388.5802, www.zaxstudios.com.

thursday29 MIKE VITALE

9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire Ladera. 25682 Crown Valley, Ladera Ranch, 949.542.7700, www.beachfire.com.

WISHBONE ASH

8 p.m. The band celebrates its 40th anniversary release party at The Coach House. Also featuring Sherman Fowler and Walter Michaels Band. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

DIAMOND TOM

6:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Neil Diamond tribute at The Vintage. 26701 B Verdugo St., SJC, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

friday30

MOMMY MOVIE MONDAY

10 a.m. Screening of Ramona and Beezus for parents of infants at the Krikorian, tickets $7.50. 641 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7469, www.kptmovies.com.

COUNTRY DANCIN’

7:30 p.m. Free dance lessons and DJ Bubba at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com

tuesday27

LORD OF THE STRINGS

FLORAL DESIGN CLASS

Page 12 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

10 a.m.-12 p.m. Make your own jump rope, lasso or another craft at the Mission. Free with admission of $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., SJC, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

STORYTIME

6 p.m. The Mission’s outdoor summer concert series continues with The Derek Bordeaux Group and catered dinner. Table Tickets start at $30. 26801 Ortega Hwy., SJC, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

7 p.m. An encore performance with popular singer/songwriter Jack Tempchin at the MV Civic Center. Tickets $20. 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo, 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

express lane entry to special attractions. “We Care Wednesdays,” devoted to benefit charitable causes, provide fairgoers with alternative ways to purchase tickets via a donation. On July 21, five cans of food can be exchanged for a ticket, on July 28, three children’s books will be accepted, on August 4 five new or gently used clothing items will be accepted for a ticket and on August 11 any school item valued at $3 and above can also be exchanged. The carnival also offers a $25 all-you-can-ride wrist band. Free parking and shuttle service to the fair is located at Bristol Street exit off the 405 freeway. For more information, including the Pacific Amphitheatre Summer Concert Series lineup, log on to www.ocfair. com. —Jamal Al-Sarraf

CASPERS CAMPFIRE PROGRAM

MERCHANT OF MENACE PAUL PRITCHARD QUARTET

THE ORANGE COUNTY FAIR

10 a.m.-12 p.m. Let a pro show you how to arrange flowers at Goin Native. Bring a bouquet and recycled containers. Class fee $50.

31661 Los Rios St., SJC, 949.525.0424, www.goinnative.net.

FERNANDO RAMOS

6 p.m.–9 p.m. The solo mariachi guitarist plays at El Adobe every Friday and Saturday night. 31891 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.1163, www.eladobedecapistrano.com.

THE DROP

9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire Ladera. 25682 Crown Valley Pkwy., Ladera Ranch, 949.542.7700, www.beachfire.com.

LARRY FRESCH

7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Vintage. 26701 B Verdugo St., SJC, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

MICHAEL MANDELLA BAND

8:30 p.m. Live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

(Cont. on page 17) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

Dispatch Restaurant Spotlight

RATE IT!

By Rachel Namson

Hidden House Coffee

31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.0200 BEST KNOWN FOR: Coffee and ice cream

MOST POPULAR ITEM: Mocha Mint Chip blended drink

Nestled in the beautiful and historic Los Rios district of San Juan Capistrano, across the tracks from the train depot, Hidden House Coffee is a quaint and cozy place to sit back, relax and enjoy an exceptional cup of coffee. Whether sitting inside the colorful house or outside on the sunlit deck, the atmosphere is perfect for coffee and community. The old Olivares house, built in 1890, has always been known as a hospitable place and Marie Rohrer and her extended family plan to continue that tradition. Rohrer, her two sisters and all of their spouses, own the business together and all of the children, nieces and nephews help out. “Our family is full of open and welcoming people and we want to serve coffee the way it should be served,” Rohrer said. “We want Hidden House to be a nice, friendly environment where people can feel at home.” Quality is key at Hidden House—all products are hand selected, brewed to perfection and presented with style. The Mocha Mint Chip, one of the most popular blended drinks, is as fun to make and decorate as it is to drink. Hidden House also features its own unique cold coffee drink, concocted by a local and dubbed the “Tyler,” which consists of three shots of espresso and two shots of white chocolate. Hidden House caters, as well, and hosts live entertainment every Friday night.

PRICE RANGE: Drinks $1.55-$10.50 RESERVATIONS: Not necessary Hidden House Coffee. Photo by Rachel Namson

PAYMENT: Cash, credit cards HOURS: Monday–Thursday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday, 7 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Have you eaten at this restaurant?

Go to www.thecapistranodispatch. com and rate your overall experience. We’ll post the results in next week’s issue of The Dispatch.

Web Extra: Online voters gave

Rocco’s Restaurant 203 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.388.7766 (Rated on a scale of 1–5 stars)

Last issue online voters gave

Thai Dara

½ 27221 Ortega Highway #G, San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1006 (Rated on a scale of 1–5 stars)

ABOUT OUR REVIEWS: In each issue we’ll highlight universally critical points including “Most Popular Dish,” “Best Known For” and “Price Range.” But most importantly, we’re inviting you to participate each week and rate the restaurant based on your experiences. Go to www.thecapistranodispatch.com and under “Restaurant Guide,” rate it from 1 to 5, then share your thoughts on the Dispatch forums.

(Cont. from page 12)

saturday31 PET ADOPTION

12 p.m.-4 p.m. Capo Animal Rescue Effort hosts a pet adoption every Saturday at PetSmart. Each animal is current with shots, has a microchip ID and is spayed/neutered. A gallery of available pets is online. 33963 Doheny Park Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.1735, www.capoanimalrescue.com.

NIGHT AT THE AWARDS

7:15 p.m. The Capistrano Valley Symphony performs The California Pops outdoors at Mission SJC. Call for tickets.

26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.240.8584, www.missionsjc.com, www.capistranovalleysymphony.org.

A MIDSUMMER’S NIGHT DREAM

7:30 p.m. Final performance of this classic Shakespeare play as part of the ongoing Capistrano Shakespeare Festival at Comino Real Playhouse. Tickets $20. 31852 El Camino Real, SJC, 949.489.8082, www.capistranocenter.com/capistranoshakespeare.htm.

sunday01

MONDAY MADNESS WINE TASTING

5 p.m.-8 p.m. Join SC Wine Company for Happy Hour featuring three wines for $5 and $8 cheese plates! 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429;.7067; www.scwinecompany.com.

tuesday03 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Discover history-related replica artifacts once used at the Mission. Free with paid admission, $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., SJC, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

BEER PONG AND TACO TUESDAY

7 p.m. Drinking games, food and drink specials, free shuffleboard at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

wednesday04 KIDS GARDEN DAY

10 a.m.-12 p.m. Kids explore produce gardens, taste fresh vegetables, and decorate and take home a pot with seeds at the Mission. Admission $5ñ$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

KIDS STORYTIME AT THE CASA

NATURE HIKE

thursday05

8 a.m.-9 a.m. Join park rangers for an educational easy 1-mile hike at Caspers Wilderness Park. $5 per vehicle. 33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com.

monday02 HORSEBACK RIDING CAMP

9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Enjoy a weeklong summer camp where you can ride, learn and be around horses. Includes dress-up days, horse games, videos and more. Fee $400. Equi Sports International at Blenheim Farms. 949.201.8879, http://equisportsinternational.com.

MOMMY MOVIE MONDAY

10 a.m. Screening of The Sorcercer’s Apprentice for parents of infants at the Krikorian, tickets $7.50. 641 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7469, www.kptmovies.com. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Extraction is Inception is Imagination

CURIOSITY CARTS

SAWDUST FESTIVAL

10 a.m.-10 p.m. The annual summer art festival returns to Laguna Beach with displays, activites, sales, food, music, demonstrations and much more. Runs through Aug. 29. General admission $7.75.

935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3030, www.sawdustartfestival.org.

AT THE MOVIES

10 a.m. Every Wednesday Casa Romantica holds storytime with interactive reading for youngsters ages 3-5; free. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, wwwcasaromantica.org.

TOY DAY

10 a.m.-12 p.m. Children can create, decorate and take home their own old-fashion toy at the Mission. Admission $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

ACOUSTIC ALCHEMY

8 p.m. Live popular band at The Coach House, also with Sherman Fowler / Bert Lams and Tom Griesgraber. Tickets $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www. thecoachhouse.com.

*For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.thecapistranodispatch.com Have an event?

Send your listing to editor@thecapistranodispatch.com

Marion Cotillard and Leonardo DiCaprio in Inception. © 2010 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

Inception is the most anticipated film of the year from British mastermind and Batman re-inventor Christopher Nolan. It’s a feature of much patience and thought that is carefully detailed and difficult to describe in ordinary conversation (it’s even reported Nolan spent eight years just getting the script finished).

Much like David Lynch’s Mulholland Dr. nine years earlier, explaining the plot of the film would most likely end up giving away too much information or giving a subjective view of the story. And with Nolan’s film, we have a tale that spends more time in fantasy than reality, coupled with a non-linear timeline.

So as to not spoil (or confuse) you, I will give an introduction of the stellar cast Nolan chose for his dream odyssey.

There’s the “dream thief” named Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio), his quick and clever sideman Arthur (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), the wizkid architect student Cobb hires for designing dreams with the odd name Ariadne (Ellen Page), a British identity shifting forger known as Eames (Tom Hardy) and their blackmailing ‘boss’ Saito (Ken Watanabe). Robert Fischer Jr. (Cillian Murphy) is the billionaire heir whose subconscious Saito and Cobb need for a secret code. And then there is the beautiful yet haunting wife of Cobb, Mal (Marion Cotillard), who keeps appearing in his dreams. Michael Caine and Lukas Haas also make appearances in minor roles in the film as well.

Very rarely does a film live up to its hype almost completely, but it’s very possible Nolan managed to achieve it. With some of the cast’s best performances on their resumes, a glorious cinematography, and a score by Hans Zimmer that is just as organic and exciting as a regular orchestra, this film is a must-see.

As for the creator himself, Nolan has perplexed and fascinated us again. From Memento and The Prestige, also non-linear and complex yet intriguing, to Inception, the film can be added to his list of essentials. And it shows that Hollywood can still manage to garner a box office hit that’s smart and worthy of acclaim at the same time. CD —Megan Bianco July 23–August 12, 2010 • The Capistrano Dispatch • Page 17

SJC LIVING

4

LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR friday 7.23

wednesday 7:28

Coffee Chat 8 a.m. The Capistrano Dispatch hosts a spirited town hall forum on community issues. All are welcome. Camino Real Playhouse, on El Camino Real, just south of Ortega Highway. Occurs every Friday.

Housing Advisory Committee 6 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

tuesday 7.27

CUSD Board of Education Meeting 7 p.m. Trustees hold the final public hearing on the 2010-2011 budget, as well as other issues. CUSD Head-

Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

tuesday 8.03 City Council Meeting 6:30 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

quarters, 33122 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano. www.capousd.org

Friday 8.13 Next regular issue of The Dispatch publishes. *Meeting agendas at www.sanjuancapistrano.org

DARYL AND DEBORAH YEE LITT: Guest View

CERT: Neighbors Helping Neighbors in Times of Disaster

T

he Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) has been providing free emergency preparedness training to residents and members of the business community since 2003. In the Deborah and Daryl Yee Lit event of a large-scale disaster, it will be “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” that will make a big difference in our survival and recovery when first responders are overwhelmed with service calls. CERT provides the type of training that will help us all get through the “Big One,” but is also applicable to a lot of those daily mishaps. Here is what San Juan residents Daryl and Deborah Yee Litt have to say about CERT: Daryl: As a former Boy Scout and military officer, I know what it means to be prepared. I was born and raised in New York City and lived in numerous areas throughout the US, Italy and Korea, and have experienced firsthand various natural disasters. I have seen and experienced how unprepared many people are to handle a disaster. In my years as a military officer, commanding several units, I experienced many situations where extensive training paid off. When I saw that San Juan Capistrano offered the CERT class, I knew I had to attend. As the Operations Group Leader and Training Committee Chair, I am proud to be able to lend my experience, training and abilities to the city to help others.

Deborah: My interest and eventual involvement in CERT was borne out of the helplessness I felt during the 2008 wildfires. A native Minnesotan, I was prepared for tornadoes, flooding and blizzards, but fires (and earthquakes) were altogether foreign to me.

When my veterinarian explained that that the anxiety I was feeling during the wildfires had directly affected my therapy dogs, I knew I was doing my animals and myself a disservice. The best way to reduce their stress (and mine) was to regain control by learning how to better prepare for and handle crisis situations. A recent graduate of CERT, my husband Daryl encouraged me to enroll. I was astonished to learn that our city offers this six-week course free of charge.

I was surprised, in large part, due to the caliber and qualifications of the instructors, many of whom have work experience in the area they teach. What I found to be most appealing, however, is able-bodied or not, there is a role for everyone in CERT. Whether you Page 18 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

enjoy the more physically active roles (i.e. Search & Rescue, Fire Suppression, Large Animal Response Team) or prefer a less physically demanding position (i.e. administrative tasks), everyone plays a vital role in ensuring smooth operations. Being cross-trained in a variety of areas was appealing to me because during a disaster or crisis one needs to be prepared for any eventuality. CERT’s philosophy of responsibility to oneself first, then one’s family, neighbor and community is consistent with the way I prioritize other aspects of my life. Just the same, there is nothing like the sense of community that results from representing CERT at events such as the San Juan Capistrano Tree Lighting Ceremony, the Swallow’s Day Parade, and the Ridge Walk & Run. My current responsibilities include heading up CERT’s Animal Response Team, whose mission is to partner with the Orange County Animal Care Services, our veterinary community, animal shelters and you; to ensure your safety and facilitate the temporary sheltering and transport of animals during an emergency. I am a member of Surf City Animal Response Team (SCART), HOPE-Animal Assisted Crisis Response and have two registered therapy dogs with Therapy Dogs International. I am employed by Boerhringer-Ingelheim and have 20-plus years experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry and maintain an Occupational Therapy license.

Please include San Juan Capistrano CERT on your

emergency preparedness check list! Let CERT show you how to prepare and respond to emergencies while at the same time have fun and make lasting friendships. Our next CERT class begins on September 1.

To sign up, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org/CERT or contact Michael Cantor, the city’s Emergency Services Coordinator, at 949.234.4565 or mcantor@sanjuancapistrano.org.

Daryl and Deborah Yee Litt are both active members of the CERT Board.

Low-Cost Vaccination Clinic Set The city will host a low-cost vaccination clinic for dogs and cats from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on July 28 at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

The Southern California Veterinary Vaccine Clinic will administer vaccines.

Dog vaccines include the four-in-one vaccine (DHPP) and the Bordetella vaccine. Cat vaccines include the three-in-one vaccine (FVRCP) and the (FELV) Leukemia vaccine.

Dog and cat rabies vaccines are $6 each. DHPP and FVRCP vaccines are $15 each and FELV is $17.

Bordetella vaccine is $12. AVID microchips are $28.

Purevax Rabies vaccines for cats are $20. Payments are cash only.

The rabies vaccine, which is required by law for all dogs four months of age and older, provides three years of protection for dogs 12 months and older and one-year protection for dogs four to 11 months old. Although rabies vaccine is not required by law for cats, it is recommended for cats at the same age restrictions as above. Pets eight weeks and older can receive the other vaccines, which can provide protection for one year or less.

Representatives from the Orange County Animal Care Services will sell dog licenses.

For general information, call Michael Cantor at 949.234.4565.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

Scouting for Adventure Four local Scouts head cross country to National Jamboree

By Chris Bashaw The Capistrano Dispatch

T

welve adjectives in the Scout Law describe what a Boy Scout is. The 10th is “brave,” and four local Scouts will exhibit their bravery with a cross-country adventure.

John Heckler, Jacob Kennamer, Donovan Shreve and Steven Stege are active Boy Scouts from San Juan Capistrano and Capistrano Beach who will take planes and trains on a 2,600 mile-long expedition to New York City, Washington D.C. and Fort. A.P. Hill in Virginia.

In a way they’re like a modern Lewis and Clark expedition going backward: “Scouting” out the east for the west.

But the real reason these boys are trekking across the country is because they are four of the 40 members of Jamboree Troop 823, which is one of nine troops representing Orange County at the Boy Scouts of America’s National Jamboree that will occur from July 26 to August 4.

National Jamborees take place every four years and offer Scouts from around the country the chance to meet each other, engage in activities, trade patches and earn merit badges.

This year’s jamboree happens to fall on the 100-year anniversary of the BSA’s foundation.

“We’ll be celebrating our centennial and there will be a lot of new opportunities [for Scouts],” said Lara Fisher, director of marketing and development for the Orange County Boy Scouts of America.

Fisher explained there will be a special emphasis on the history of the BSA at many of the jamboree’s more than 30 planned activities including sailing, trapshooting, motocross, scuba diving, archery and fishing.

“I think it’s really exciting,” said 15-year-old Kennamer, who’s looking forward to kayaking and other water sports. There are many events and [we] can do a lot of things.”

Stege, 16, said he wanted to do an activity where Scouts, armed with foam swords, duel above a mud pit. The loser of the duel falls to a dirty defeat.

Although he agreed the foam-sword duel would be fun, 12-year-old Heckler wants to scale a rock-climbing wall and go rappelling.

Shreve was excited to trade patches with fellow Boy Scouts from around the country.

“I expect to have fun traveling and getting to know Boy Scouts from other parts of the United States,” he said, adding that he was also eager to see the Angels play the Yankees in New York.

In addition to activities, Scouts can complete any number of the 95 merit badges that will be represented at “Merit www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Clockwise from top left: Jacob Kennamer, Steven Stege, John Heckler and Donovan Shreve.

Photos courtesy of Tom Sales

Badge Midway.”

For some Scouts this is their first time traveling without their family, but any feeing of anxiety seems to be quelled by the year-long preparations Troop 823 has undergone.

“At first the Scouts were a little timid, but now there’s a bond between them and they’re excited,” said Scoutmaster Tom Sales. “They’re prepared well enough that they’re comfortable.”

About a year ago Jamboree Troop 823 was formed and began monthly exercises to train Scouts for Jamboree.

These exercises included campouts and meetings designed to break the ice between Scouts who might have otherwise never met, as well as hone their scout-craft skills like setting up campsites and emergency preparedness.

Troop 823 once took a train to San Diego to show Scouts how to navigate in a large city, as they will be doing in New York City and Washington D.C. one week prior to Jamboree.

Heckler, the youngest of the four, said even though he may get homesick it would be good to get away from the house.

His mother, Lynn, said she was initially apprehensive about signing up John for National Jamboree, but

said he “has grown so much through scouting” that she felt comfortable about the trip.

Although they are four of 40 in Troop 823, they are also four of 363 other Scouts and 50 scout leaders from Orange County who will be going to National Jamboree this year, said Fisher.

Overall nine troops from Orange County, each named after a Southern Californian Beach as part of the council’s National Jamboree theme, will represent the region.

Troop 823 happens to be designated as “Salt Creek.”

OCBSA has even developed special pins and patches to identify Orange County Boy Scouts: Each of the nine troops has a specially designed patch, which Scouts will wear on the left sleeves of their uniforms. Each patch depicts a different surfing scene that manifests the popular image of Southern California.

Pins and patches may be traded with Scouts from other parts of the country.

The BSA’s first National Jamboree was held in 1937 in Washington D.C. Because of World War Two, there wouldn’t be another Jamboree until 1950.

In 1953 the first and last Californiasponsored National Jamboree was held where the Newport Center and Fashion Island now stand.

Jamboree Road, named in honor of the 1953 event, was originally a two-lane trail called Palisades that allowed Scouts access to the event. Jamboree Road currently bisects Irvine from the Pacific Coast Highway to its most eastern point at the BSA-operated Outdoor Recreation Center in Irvine Regional Park.

Although the exact figures of the 2010 National Jamboree’s total attendance have yet to be published, it’s likely to be in the tens of thousands.

The jamborees held in 2001 and 2005 amassed 42,002 and 43,000 Scouts from around the United States, respectively.

If past attendances are indicative of the future, a similar figure may be recorded for 2010.

Jamboree has taken place at Fort A.P. Hill every four years since 1981. However, it will break its 29-year run in 2013 for the Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve in West Virginia.

The Boy Scouts as an international movement was founded in England by Sir Robert Baden-Powell in 1908. BadenPowell got the idea from his experiences in the British Army while in South Africa, which is reflective of the organization’s popular image of being outdoor and survival-oriented. CD

City Launches Online Survey People who live or work in town can receive a free gift by taking an online survey on the city’s environmental efforts. The survey runs through September 3.

The survey at www.sanjuancapistrano.org takes about 10 minutes to complete and will ask people to respond by agreeing or disagreeing to statements such as “California’s oceans are experiencing pollution problems caused by human activity” and “It is important to me that I do not use significantly more water than other people in my neighborhood.” To take the survey, click on the Environmental Survey link on the homepage at www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

July 23–August 12, 2010 • The Capistrano Dispatch • Page 19

SJC LIVING

Kids with Good Grades in Summer School

By Jamal Al-Sarraf The Capistrano Dispatch

A

h summer: Classes cease, vacations start, and parents stop griping about homework for three months. Not for the students enrolled in the Breakthrough program at St. Margaret’s. These unique students plan to race ahead of their peers.

Breakthrough launched in 1978 in San Francisco as “Summerbridge” and served high-potential middle school students from low-income families. Since then the program has spread nationwide and to Hong Kong.

Boasting student to teacher ratios of three to one and high college enrollment rates, the program is successful. “About 78 percent of our students continue on to college” director Diosa Adams said. “The average rate of students enrolling in college at that income level in our district is 24 percent; we aim to raise our

rate to 85 percent.” An intensive six-week program, Breakthrough prepares students for college. Using a students-teach-students model, students accelerate their learning, offered year-round tutoring and ongoing college preparation.

Class starts bright and early for the students at 8 a.m. They’re welcomed in, attend a short role call with some cheering and breakfast then rush off to class. From there it’s the choices are endless. The program includes traditional classes such as English, math and the sciences but also includes unique electives, such as personal finance. “The personal finance class starts the students at their current age,” Danielle Oloko, a teacher and graduate of Northwestern University said. “As the weeks go by they continue to ‘age’ and watch their money grow. It shows them how to manage their money and what their finances will

Rotary Installs New President

Above: The Rotary board, from left to right: Mike Darnold (Vocational Service), Don Hickman (Fundraising), Ray Perez (Community Service), JJ Hurst (International Service), Greg Sykes (Club President), John Caldwell (Public Relations), Larry Kramer (Rotary Foundation), Mark Bauer (Treasurer), Chris Iverson (Secretary) and Paul Murai (VP & Club President Elect). Right: New Rotary President Greg Sykes, with first lady Marie Sykes. Bottom right: Daphne von Crother was a “tree” to demonstrate how a centipede lives. Photos by Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he San Juan Rotary met Saturday to install Greg Sykes as its new president.

Serving on the 2010-11 board will be Mike Darnold, Don Hickman, Ray Perez, JJ Hurst, John Caldwell—the past president—Larry Kramer, Mark Bauer, Chris Iverson and Paul Murai.

The installation was held at the Scout Hut on La Matanza, and featured a barbecue day with family and friends, as well as a “zoo” show with exotic animals and insects.

The Rotary meets Wednesday evenings at the Scout Hut during the summer and at Sarducci’s in the winter. For more information about the club, see www. sanjuancapistranorotary.org CD Page 20 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

look like when their older. I remember a student in my class who yelled ‘I just got my car today!’”

Breakthrough teachers come from all over the nation, love their jobs and San Juan Capistrano. “I’m from Brooklyn, and my host has a pool and a yard. In this city [in San Juan] that’s not considered affluent but back at home it really is,” said Oluwa Abney, a history teacher at the program and senior at Morehouse College. “The city really supports the program and it’s really amazing to see the community help.”

Success is proven in the students. Fabian Tovar, an eighth grader, has been in the program for two years.

“I used to get Cs and Ds all the time,” he said. “Then one of my friends told me about the program and I decided to try it. Now I get mostly As and Bs and it’s a lot of fun. I love it.”

For more information, see www.smes.org. CD

Committee to Plan City’s Golden Anniversary A committee of residents and local leaders has been hard at work for months, planning the city’s birthday celebration in 2011. Committee members have planned a yearlong celebration of Capistrano’s golden anniversary of its incorporation in 1961. Various community groups will take on an activity each month or incorporate the anniversary into their already-planned events. The plans also include banners on downtown light poles and the opportunity for residents to purchase engraved pavers that will be placed downtown.

Local high school students were asked in the fall to participate in an art competition for banners that will hang on light poles on Camino Capistrano from January to December in 2011.

Of the 17 winners; 12 came from Capistrano Valley Christian School. The winners are: Bronwyn Seward, Andrew Stevens, David Orgill, Xiaoyang Chen, Robert Hoffman, Caitlyn Kelly, Kate Lee, Jessica Scheevel, Lauren Schneider, Matt Shaffner, Sonia Zhang, Kevan Zameni, Tamara Meyerhoff, Jordan Anderson, Andrew Kim, Tiffany Meza and Liam Short.

The banners, 90 inches by 36 inches, will be available for sale to merchants to advertise below the student artwork. They are on sale on a first-come, first-served basis for $2,500 for the year.

And the anniversary also gives residents a chance to become permanent parts of the town. The Celebration Committee is selling pavers to be placed in the downtown area. Forms are available at the Historical Society, at City Hall, at the Community Center and at all city events. The cost per paver is $250 and is tax deductible.

Money for pavers and the form should be sent to the Celebration Committee’s, P.O.Box 1498 San Juan Capistrano, CA 92693.

To also fund the yearlong events, donations can be made to the Celebration Committee by sending tax-deductible checks to “City of San Juan Capistrano Birthday Celebration” at the group’s post office box. Any money left over in the account after the year’s celebration will go to the city for Historic Preservation.

Celebration Committee members are: Pam Gibson, Honorary Chair, Jan Siegel, Chair, Ilse Byrnes, Erin Kutnick, Don Tryon, Laura Freese, Ann Forster, Ken Friess, Jerry Nieblas, Mozelle Sukut and Randi Peshkin.

—Jonathan Volzke www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Locals Only

B u s i n e s s D i r e c t o r y The only directory featuring San Juan Capistrano businesses exclusively ALSO

ONLINE

AT

W W W.T H E C A P I S T R A N O D I S PATC H .C O M

Experience The Mission

Air Conditioning DC Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning www.dcplumbing.net 949.365.9044

Air Conditioning & HEATING

Historic Mission San Juan Capistrano Exciting New Audio Tour 949.234.1300 26801 Ortega Highway, www.missionsjc.com

FLORIST Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste. A, www.oasisair.com Mother Earth Flowers 949.493.4400 32158 Camino Capistrano, Ste. 105 www.motherearthflorist.com Antique Restoration Sarah Whitcomb Antique Restoration 949.234.9740 32432 Alipaz, Ste. B, www.sarahwhitcombantiques.com

Assisted Living Del Obispo Terrace 949.496.8802 32200 Del Obispo Street, www.delobispoterrace.com

Attorney Law Office of Skinner & Skinner 31461 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste. 103

949.248.0260

Auto Repair Star Motors 32959 Calle Perfecto

949.443.1970

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

Business Spotlight of the Month!

Want to say more? Want more space to highlight your business? Then sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100.

Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online. Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@thecapistranodispatch.com.

949.661.2054

Banking Comerica Bank 949.234.9683 32022 Camino Capistrano, Suite F3, www.comerica.com Independence Bank 949.373.1570 Marbella Plaza 31107 Rancho Viejo Rd., www.independence-bank.net Pacific Mercantile Bank 949.487.4200 31601 Avenida Los Cerritos, Ste 100, www.pmbank.com

Beauty Salon Charisma Salon & Supply 32301-F Camino Capistrano Curtis Michaels Hair Salon 31882 Del Obispo, Ste. 150, www.curtismichaels.com

949.240.1200 949.240.9240

BUSINESS COMPUTER SERVICES

Community Services CHEC Family Resource Center 31411 La Matanza Street, Suite B

HOME THEATER Reeltime Sight and Sound 949.240.0555 26381 Via De Anza, www.reeltimesightandsound.com

HYPNOTHERAPY Jennifer Wong, Cht - Certified Hypnotherapist & Meditation Instructor 949.878.6870 30320 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. #103, www.positiveenergyhypnosis.com

Insurance Capistrano Health & Life www.capistranohealthlife.com

949.697.9454

Jeweler

Kitchen Design Kitchen & Bath Designs 27231 Ortega Hwy., Unit B

949.661.4080

949.489.7742 Sparklean Laundry 31952 Del Obispo

949.248.4686

MOLD REMOVAL

949.362.5388 Orange Coast Database Association 949-489-1472 Jarvis Restoration 32422 Allipaz St., Ste. B, http://ocdatabases.itgo.com 31942 Paseo Sagrado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

Construction Services Tony Brown Design & Build e-mail hunkpapa@cox.net

MORTGAGE

949.661.2054 Capistrano Health & Life www.capistranohealthlife.com

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

949.697.9454

PHARMACY

949.661.9141 Four-A Electric

949.240.8844 The Medicine Shoppe 31952 Del Obispo #270, www.medicineshoppe.com 32432 Alipaz, Ste. C, fouraelectric@sbcglobal.net

Embroidery

Mission Parish School 949.234.1385 31641 El Camino Real, www.missionparishschool.org

PRINTING Printing OC

949.388.4888 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

RestaurantS Las Golandrinas Mexican Food 949.240.3440 27124 Paseo Espada #803, www.lasgolondrinas.biz Skimmer’s Panini Café 949.276.6300 31451 Rancho Viejo Rd. #103, www.skimmerspaninigrill.com

Photo & Digital Lab

EmbroidMe – SJC 949.276.7910 San Juan Photo & Digital 32241 Camino Capistrano , A102 32301 Camino Capistrano, www.embroidme-sanjuancapo.com www.sjcphotodigital.com

949.212.0499

TELEVISION Reeltime Sight and Sound 26381 Via De Anza, www.reeltimesightandsound.com

949-240-0555

WATER DAMAGE Jarvis Restoration 949.362.5388 31942 Paseo Sagrado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

Women’s Clothing Blu:Echo 949.496.4810 31878 Del Obispo (Marshalls Center)

YOGA Adelanto Studio Yoga & Life Arts 32118 Paseo Adelanto, Ste.9, www.adelantostudio.net

949.705.7344

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This handy, cost-friendly, go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7.

LAUNDRIES

COMPUTER TRAINING

A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 www.atozleakdetection.com Pronto Plumbing (El Plomero) 949.246.3589 SENIOR HOME CARE 31878 Del Obispo Ste. 118-227, www.prontodrain.com Alerra Home Health Services 949.545.6646 SCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. 949.493.2426 32332 Camino Capistrano #205, www.alerra.net 27126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com DC Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning Slab leak repair www.dcplumbing.net 949.365.9044 SCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. 949.493.2426 27126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com PRESCHOOLS

Bryan Krueger Enterprises, Inc. 33208 Paseo De Cerveza, Ste. B

Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design 949.493.3632 32382 Del Obispo, Ste. C-3, www.abbysdesigns.com

Lightning Technology, Inc. 949.488.0029 32963 Calle Perfecto, http://www.lightningtechnology.com

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools 949.493.5683 32032 Del Obispo Street, www.cvcs.org

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Bands / Entertainment Evergrove www.evergrovemusic.com

Schools

PLUMBING

949.661.5668

Get your business listed today.

Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or email aedwards@thecapistranodispatch.com.

Business Directory Classifieds Garage sale listings are FREE! Call 949.388.7700, ext. 103

Submit your ad online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Help Wanted

E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@ thecapistranodispatch.com

DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY Misc. EDUCATION Services IN-HOME TEACHER I am credentialed and have a Masters Degree in Education. I will develop lessons for students based on their current needs. I have 10 years experience in all grade levels and a high success rate with student grade improvement even with the most reluctant learner. Excellent references upon request.

Call 949-363-8414.

Misc. Health Services FREE PREGNANCY TESTS Confidential services & help when you need it most. Call 218-5777; walk-ins welcome.

1450-B N. El Camino Real, SC. Pregnancy Resource Center

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July 23–August 12, 2010 • The Capistrano Dispatch • Page 23

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

5 BEST BETS BASEBALL

SURFING

Mets vs. Dodgers Dodger Stadium July 23, 7:10 p.m.

The Dodgers will look to bounce back following a tough start to the second half of the season as they host the New York Mets in the second game of a four-game series. Info: www. losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com

WSA 5th Annual Menehune Surf Fest, Huntington Beach, Golden West St. July 25, 7 a.m.

Novice surfers 16 and under compete in friendly low-pressure surf contest.

There will also be a push-in division for surfers under age 8. Info: www.

BASEBALL

Red Sox vs. Angels Angel Stadium July 26, 7:05 p.m.

After facing the New York Yankees and Texas Rangers on the road, the Angels head home for a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox. Info: www.losangeles. angels.mlb.com

surfwsa.org

VOLLEYBALL CLINIC

949 Athletics San Juan Capistrano Sports Park July 26-29, 9 a.m.-11 a.m.

Offered by the coaching staff of 949 Volleyball Club, players ages 10-14 and 15-18 can learn more skills on the court by focusing on fundamentals.

The cost is $135 per session. Info: www.949vb.com

SOCCER

Islanders vs. Galaxy Home Depot Center July 27, 7 p.m.

After battling the San Jose Earthquakes at home on July 27, the Galaxy get set for another match as they take on the Puerto Rico Islanders in the first leg of the preliminary round of the 2010-2011 CONCACAF Champions League.

Info: www.lagalaxy.com

Team Relentless Wins California Lacrosse Classic

By David Zimmerle The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he first-ever California Lacrosse Classic was held last weekend at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano featuring more than 25 of the top middle-school and younger club lacrosse teams from Southern California, Arizona, Utah, Washington, Northern California and Pennsylvania. After three days of games in U-15 and U-13 boys and U-15 girls divisions, Team Relentless (Boys U-15), FCA SoCal (Boys U-13) and Team OC (Girls U-15) were crowned champions.

The tournament benefited the HEADstrong Foundation in honor of former Hofstra lacrosse player Nick Colleluori who died while in school of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2006. Nick’s parents and brother were on hand to meet all the players and teams.

Team Relentless, comprised of middle-school aged players from south Orange County (including San Clemente’s Peyton Garrett and San Juan Capistrano’s Hunter Edington and Avery Beck), is a select summer travel team that plays for the HEADstrong Foundation based in Pennsylvania. Team Relentless beat Pacific Cascade Clash (Seattle), 13-6, in the championship game to complete a perfect run through the tournament.

“This was one of the most organized, enjoyable and welcoming tournament I’ve ever been to,” said former Johns Hopkins University star lacrosse player Kyle Harrison. Harrison is the head coach of Team Relentless and also was representing STX. Team OC won the Girls U-15 division, knocking off rival La Paz Storm by one goal in the waning minutes

The 2010 California Lax Classic U-15 winners: Avery Beck (San Juan Capistrano), Sage DeVault (Rancho Santa Margarita), Ravi Dhouni (Mission Viejo), Chaz Dotson (Laguna Hills), Hunter Edington (San Juan Capistrano), Teddy Finley (Mission Viejo), Gunner Garn (Ladera Ranch), Peyton Garrett (San Clemente), Tucker Guyot (Coto de Caza), Rome Innocenzi (Chino Hills), Mitch Kingsley (Coto de Caza), Brenden Lynch (Lake Forest), Yuta Murata (Newport Coast), Logan Olmsted (Rancho Santa Margarita), Chris Reck (Rancho Santa Margarita), Hayden Ruiz (Rancho Santa Margarita), Quinn Toohey (Mission Viejo), Max Vought (Coto de Caza), Blake Warner (Mission Viejo), Zach Wiser (Coto de Caza) and James Yanes (Mission Viejo). Coaches are Kyle Harrison, Max Ritz, James Morgan, Brett Moyer and Jason Leneau. Courtesy photo

of the game.

In the Boys U-13 division, FCA SoCal knocked off Pacific Cascade Clash (Seattle) 14-3 to complete their perfect run through the tournament. FCA SoCal features many local area players including from San Clemente: Matthew Karzak, Jack Renard, Max Lepley, Patrick Fallon, Cole Harlow, Beau Largent, Bennett Luke; from San Juan Capistrano: Jeremy Davis; from Laguna Niguel: Brandon Rogers, Nick Shanks.

In B Division finals, RC Starz beat Team 27 (another Orange County team tied to Headstrong featuring local area players) in the Boys U-15, while RC Starz beat OC Lacrosse Club in Boys U-13. The three-day tournament featured numerous local vendors in the festival village. Other sponsors included Adrenaline (featuring Relentless coach Max Ritz), Monster, Warrior/Brine, Pro Athletics, Boathouse and Be The Match. CD

Little Leaguers Finish Strong The San Juan Capistrano Little League Juniors Division had a strong showing in this summer’s 2010 District 86 All Stars, held at the Sports Park complex in San Juan Capistrano. The Juniors team trounced the Mission Viejo South with a 3-0 shut out performance and played their way into the semi-finals, where they lost to North Mission Viejo. “These boys played with heart and won big, I am very proud of how far this division has gone this season,” said SJCLL President Mike Morales, commenting on both the All Star performance and participation in the District Tournament of Champions. Participating in the baseball fever was San Juan’s own, Mayor Dr. Londres Uso, too, who attended opening ceremonies for the game at The Sports Park here in town.

The team in alphabetical order: Steven Cervantes, Jason Core, AJ Discenzo, Iain Jones, Matthew Lee, Austin Major, Mario Morales, Daniel Navarrete, Josh Robison, Marcos Romero, James Watt, Jairo Zamarripa, Jackson Zoch.

President: Mike Morales; Manager: Austin Major; Coaches: Raul Navarette, Phil Jones. Courtesy photo

Page 24 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Anything But a Rough Day at San Juan Hills Course is in good shape, even if players’ game has some rough spots

By Steve Breazeale The Capistrano Dispatch

I

’m standing over my golf ball with my driver in hand.

Looking around I notice those milling around the clubhouse are watching, making it hard to think about anything but plunking my ball in the pond that stretches out in front of me. It’s the first tee at San Juan Hills Golf Course and already I’m worried about losing a ball in some water. And they tell me this is supposed to be fun and relaxing. After a few warm up swings the nerves go away and my ball, thankfully, finds its way onto the fairway. On a side note, my psychiatrist and I would like to thank the course architect for purposely causing this unneeded stress on the first tee.

I am what you would call a weekend golfer. I get out to play maybe twice a month with my dad and we always go for the bargain twilight tee times. So when my friend called me Sunday and said he had a 7 a.m. tee time for Monday at San Juan Hills, I jumped at the opportunity to play prime time morning golf.

Now, let me clarify here, I am not a morning person. I’m on summer vacation and getting up at 7 a.m. seemed like an awful idea. I’m sure those of you reading are shaking your heads right now but give me a break, I’m a college kid. After waking up for that ungodly hour of a tee time and making my way to the course I suddenly realized why they call it “prime time” golf. There was no one there! The course was almost empty and while my foursome stood on the first tee overlooking the scene, we didn’t see another group in sight. Perfect.

Luckily for us, the course wouldn’t give us much trouble. It was in the best shape I have ever seen it in.

I play here when I can on trips back home to visit my family and the last time I was here the greens and fairways were punched and being aerated. But this time the fairways were clean and cut and the greens were as pure as you could hope for.

“I’ve been with this company for three years and this is the best it’s been. We paid attention to the course.”

Chief Operating Officer David Foster said, “There were some areas that were stressed out and we went in and re-sodded them and it’s taken on real well. And the greens are always great” San Juan Hills is not exactly a hard course, but it is definitely not an easy one. Holes like No. 2 and No. 15 remind you to keep your ego in check. There are a few holes that demand a special kind of shot whether it be your tee shot or your approach, or both. Take the sixth hole for example. The sixth is the first par five you come up against and it is a long one. It stretches out in front of you for a couple hundred yards before making a sharp dogleg left, testing to see if you can hit the high draw that’s necessary. Holes like No. 6 require consecutive good shots if you are going to make par or better.

As we made our way through the course, and a few beverages, things seemed to get tougher. Funny how that usually happens.

The back nine always seems to give me trouble and I was waiting for the blow up hole that usually accompanies any round of golf. It looked like I was in the clear because I had a great round going and I was eyeing a personal best. But the golf gods had other things in mind and they waited until No. 17 to throw me into a daze.

No. 17 is a long par five that plays straight into the wind. The only trouble on the hole is the housing tract that runs along the right side which causes everyone who witnesses a ball curve toward it to hold their collective breath. I’ve heard everything from a soft concrete bounce to a loud “WHACK” as a ball drills a roof. After taking all of this into account I of course swing as hard as I can thinking I’m Albert Pujols showing off my opposite field home run power. I ended up nearly giving myself not one, but two heart attacks as I sent two ugly slices straight toward the houses.

Those two shots were followed by a grueling five or six seconds of absolute silence as we waited for a crash or a thud that never came. I carded a miserable quadruple bogey and played the eighteenth like a zombie, vowing never to link my golf game to a professional baseball player ever again.

But in all, the course was in great shape and our group had a good time. Even after that horrible hole that will not be named, I ended up shooting an 85, which is a great score for me.

The brand new clubhouse and patio area is remarkable and the 15 big screen TVs that await you in the new 2,000-square-foot bar and grill can really help take your mind off of a late-round quadruple bogey. Now, that’s what my psychiatrist had in mind.

Getting Married? Or looking for an event area? The San Juan Hills Golf Club now has a brand new 3,000 square foot banquet center. Also, make sure to check out the new grass area driving range complete with practice bunkers. www.sanjuanhillsgolf.com Steve Breazeale is a UCLA study interning with The Capistrano Dispatch. CD

Rotary Golf Tournament a Hit The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he Capistrano Rotary Club held its first golf tournament on June 25 at San Juan Hills Golf Course, with the event deemed a success by those who counted their strokes as well as those who counted the money.

The event drew nearly 80 golfers and raised more than $15,000 for the Rotary, which will use the money on various charitable projects. The tournament’s major sponsors were Capistrano Toyota Scion, Sycamore Trails Stables, JSerra High School and San Juan Hills Golf Course.

Rotarians said the seeds of the tournament were planted when Foster joined Rotary, and then-President John Caldwell and his wife, Eileen Caldwell, embraced the project, working, many hours to coordinate all of the facets of the tournament. Then, volunteers took on various duties: Pat Petersen lined up all the golfers; Yvonne Murai coordinated the Chinese auction; Carol Dadarian and Cindy Russell sold raffle tickets; Jeanne Walker sold over $1,000 in Mulligans.

As for the golf, it was a best-ball tournament, meaning all four golfers hit their shots, then the next from the best location of the first. That leads to low scoring.

The finishes: 1st place A Flight: Sean Danka, Matt Gruden, Ken Potter, & Andrew Potter).

They shot 59.

1st place B Flight: Jim Hartigan, Andy Sulick, Chad Thacker, Don Hickerson.

They shot 66.

Page 26 • The Capistrano Dispatch • July 23–August 12, 2010

Above: San Juan Hills Golf Course Chief Operating Officer, and Rotarian, Dave Foster and former Rotary President John Caldwell launch the raffle portion of the first Rotary golf tournament. Right: Darlene Jamroz (left) celebrates a contest win with a friend.

Photos by Barton B. Mac Leod

1st place C Flight: Norm Eizenbeiz, Happy Hunn, Wayne Newton, & Lee Harker.

They shot 71.

The Longest Drive winner was Jonathan Volzke and the Closest to the Pin winner was John Frankel. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com