The Capistrano Dispatch

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O C TO B E R 2 8 – N OV E M B E R 1 0 , 2 0 1 1 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 20

Powering Up SDG&E Plans to Raze Old Building and Expand Substation E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 4

San Diego Gas & Electric plans to raze an existing substation and 1918 building on Camino Capistrano to make way for new a station. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

Former Superintendent Sues Capo Unified

Blake: Broken Heart?

Get Over It!

INSIDE: A New You Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life…

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

SJC LIVING/PAGE 14

SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION

EYE ON SJC

1

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SAN CLEMENTE The building of a sound wall on the east side of the San Diego Freeway in San Clemente has neighbors along South El Camino Real crying foul over lost views and diminishing property values. About a dozen merchants and homeowners brought their concerns to the City Council last week, saying they had never been informed of the project and called for it to be halted. CalTrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority are behind the wall construction, said City Manager George Scarborough. Scarborough noted that residents on the other side of the freeway had called for the wall to reduce noise, and he expressed worry that one neighborhood would be pitted against the other. At a meeting with Caltrans, city officials were told it was too late to make any changes.

NEWS

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

DANA POINT A man driving an SUV drove over the curb, across the grass and down the jetty rocks into the outer channel waters of the Dana Point Harbor at 7:27 a.m. on October 24. The incident happened in front of the Harbor Patrol Marine Operations Substation at 25005 Dana Drive. Apparently the driver continued driving straight ahead instead of following the curve of the road. The cause of the accident was inattention to the road, said Lt. Roland Chacon of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

Alcohol was not a factor and the driver was not cited, he said. The car initially stopped only partially submerged and the driver was able to climb out uninjured, said Sgt. John Hollenbeck.

As the tide rose the vehicle went completely under but was pulled back up the rocks by two tow trucks.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

1

…Former Superintendent Suing?

THE LATEST: Former Capistrano Unified School District Superintendent James Fleming is suing the school district, contending officials reneged on a promise to pay his legal fees for political corruption charges that were all dismissed.

Fleming and Assistant Superintendent Susan McGill were indicted in 2007 for allegedly using district resources to track those behind an attempt to recall all seven trustees. That recall ultimately failed but Fleming resigned. In his Orange County Superior Court lawsuit, he contends he tendered his resignation on the promise that the school district would pay his legal expenses and provide him free lifetime medical insurance.

Trustees later voted publicly to stop paying his legal bills.

The indictments and surrounding furor set off a political chain of events that saw two trustees recalled as a “reform” group ultimately gained all seven seats on the board. But two of those trustees were also later recalled, after teachers called a three-day walkout over labor negotiations.

WHAT’S NEXT: No hearing has been scheduled. In correspondence to the district, Fleming’s attorney contends the former educator lost more than $1.6 million in legal fees, back pay and future earnings.

FIND OUT MORE: See the suit at the Beyond the Blackboard blog at www.thecapistranodispatch.com —Jonathan Volzke

2

…Taming Traffic on La Ronda?

THE LATEST: Flashing lights and new

bike lanes to make the street more narrow were the most popular suggestions for calming traffic on Camino La Ronda east of La Novia, residents told city officials at a special meeting Wednesday night.

The meeting was called after some residents complained about speeding on La Ronda and concerns that motorists routinely run a stop sign at La Ronda and Via Puntero. But the city received more complaints when motorcycle deputies stationed in the area began writing tickets.

A city survey found 80 percent of the vehicles on La Ronda exceeded the 30mph speed limit. A sheriff’s deputy said Wednesday he and his partner wrote eight tickets in two hours that morning alone—and all of the vehicles were doing at least 41 mph.

WHAT’S NEXT: City Traffic Engineer Alan Oswald said 30 mph is too fast for speed bumps, but making the road more narrow with painted bike lanes on both sides would likely slow traffic.

Resident Paul Shapiro also suggested solar-powered speed limit signs that flash a motorist’s speed when someone is exceeding the limit. Oswald said potential solutions will be taken to the Transportation Commission in about a month, then to the City Council.

FIND OUT MORE: See the city presentation at www.thecapistranodispatch.com —JV

3

…A Death Sentence for Egan’s Killer?

THE LATEST: An Orange County Superior Court jury on Wednesday recommended death for the man who killed a San Juan

The Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

Capistrano father of twin girls.

Tom Egan was shot to death during a robbery at the Home Depot in Tustin, where he worked as a manager. The retired Marine left behind a wife and two girls. Egan was killed trying to protect co-workers from harm.

Jason Russell Richardson, 40, Oceanside, was found guilty by a jury April 28, 2010, of one felony count of special circumstances murder during the commission of robbery and burglary. Two earlier juries, however, could not decide whether he deserved the death penalty.

WHAT’S NEXT: Richardson is scheduled to be formally sentenced Nov.ember 18 in Santa Ana. FIND OUT MORE: See the entire story at www.thecapistranodispatch.com —JV

4

…the Bible Study Citation?

THE LATEST: Two homeowners cited for holding Bible studies in their home can use their association’s clubhouse for the gatherings without any special permits, the city has informed them.

Chuck and Stephanie Fromm were cited for violating a city code that requires a conditional-use permit after a neighbor complained about a weekly Bible study that draws as many as 50 people on Sundays.

The Fromms intermittently used their Mission Hills clubhouse for the gathering, but were blocked because the city code was unclear whether permits were needed for that facility, too. But in an October 10 letter to the association’s management company, the city says clubhouses are generally built, and permitted, with gatherings in mind.

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The Fromm’s have been renting space at Saddleback Valley Christian Schools for the Sunday gatherings. Chuck Fromm said discussions with the city on a final outcome are going well. The city was inundated with letters from around the world after news of the citations broke.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Fromm’s appeal of the citation is now scheduled for November 18 in Orange County Superior Court.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.thecapistranodispatch.com and www.chuckfromm.net —JV

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…A Traffic Tie Up?

THE LATEST: Northbound San Diego Freeway traffic was blocked for more than an hour Tuesday after 13 containers of muriatic acid were found strewn across lanes.

The Orange County Fire Authority sent hazardous-materials teams to identify the chemical and neutralize it with soda ash just after 11:10 a.m., as motorists sat behind a line of CHP cruisers and fire engines blocking all of the lanes just south of the Camino Capistrano exit.

Fire Authority Capt. Marc Stone said authorities were unsure if the driver who lost the 13, 1-liter containers was even aware they’d fallen. The acid, commonly used to clean pools, etched the roadway, bubbled and created small plumes.

The road reopened about 12:30 p.m.

WHAT’S NEXT: The incident, which backed up traffic into San Diego County, is already being used by toll-road supporters as proof an alternate route to the I-5—the proposed 241-South—is needed.

FIND OUT MORE: See the full story at www.thecapistranodispatch.com —JV www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Eye on SJC

Powering Up San Diego Gas & Electric unveils plans to increase size of Capistrano substation

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

T

here was a time when the imposing building on Camino Capistrano was vital to San Juan Capistrano.

Built in 1918, the now ivy-covered structure housed a generator that powered the entire town and San Clemente.

Two houses sat behind it, home to the men who ensured the juice kept flowing.

When a fuse tripped or some other problem arose, the troubleman would flip the switch again to restore the power.

But that all changed in the ’50s when San Diego Gas & Electric began bringing in power from other plants. Even the troubleman cottages were moved off the site in the last decade or so, both ending up as restoration projects in the Los Rios District.

The building that housed the old power station itself has been deemed structurally unsound—it can’t even be moved elsewhere, said SDG&E spokesman Duane Cave. SDG&E leases the property out as a storage yard.

And now the utility has new plans— to raze the old building and put up two on the 6-acre property, which sits in a residential neighborhood. The substation would grow, too, as South County’s power needs have grown. The two new buildings will each be as much as 50-feet tall, and the complex will be surrounded by a 10-foot wall.

Power demands in South Orange County have tripled in the last 26 years, from 141 megawatts in 1984 to 492 megawatts in 2010.

The project also includes replacing and upgrading the power poles that cross from the area of San Juan Hills High School, pass Rancho Madrina and Marbella and enter the station.

The overall project will cost SDG&E between $435 million and $500 million, Cave said. It requires approval from the Public Utilities Commission, but not the City of San Juan Capistrano. Cave said SDG&E, which held focus groups with residents before unveiling the plan at a City Council meeting earlier this month, said the utility will be sensitive to the community.

The old structure is listed on the city’s list of “Buildings and Sites of Distinction,” but that does not provide it any protections. The Cultural Heritage Commission drew up the list, which the city calls “honorary.”

The now-visible racks of electrical transformers and other equipment across from Junipero Serra Park in the Capistrano Gardens neighborhood will

San Diego Gas & Electric proposes to raze the 1918 building on Camino Capistrano to make way for a new substation. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

As part of what San Diego Gas & Electric spokesman Duane Cave calls an “unprecedented outreach,” the utility is hosting two community meetings to explain the South County Reliability Project.

IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO:

November 16 From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

San Juan Hills Country Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road

In San Clemente:

November 17 From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Bella Collina Country Club 200 Avenida La Pata SDG&E staff will be on hand to discuss the project with those in attendance.

be enclosed in one of the buildings, he said, as will be the other equipment.

“I think in a lot of ways, it will look a little cleaner than it does now,” Cave said. “There’s nothing we can do to make it go away, but we can soften it.”

The project requires an environmental impact report, in which the city and residents can comment. The PUC

The Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

will be the lead agency on that study after the project is submitted, likely in 2012, Cave said. If all goes smoothly, construction would begin in 2014 and finish by 2017.

The new substation would provide a back-up to the facility in Talega, Cave said. Now if something goes wrong at that plant, South Orange County would be without power.

“If there’s a problem and we lose Talega, we lose all 120,000 service customers, about 340,000 customers,” Cave said.

Capistrano will be home to the new substation, Cave said, because SDG&E already owns the land, and because San Juan is in the center of the load system.

The current substation is 138 kilovolts, Duane said. After the project, the Camino Capistrano property will house a 12-kilovolt station closest to Camino Capistrano, while the 138-kilovolt station will be in a new building approximately where the existing building is now. A new 230-kilovolt station will be built toward the rear of the property, also housed in a building. But Cave said the plans call for grading the sloping parcel, and the new building might not appear any taller than the existing, exposed structures there now.

The new power poles will also be taller than existing towers, but also will

Page 4

be single poles, rather than the “erectorset” towers now in place. Undergrounding the lines is not an option because of existing land uses—from homes to shopping centers—and because undergrounding such high-voltage lines is 10 times more expensive than running them on towers, Cave said.

Cave said the utility does not expect any outages during the work, but will complete the new system before removing the old.

“It’s similar to rebuilding an airplane engine in flight,” Cave said.

Council members have expressed some concerns about the overall appearance of the substation, but South County business leaders announced they are behind the project.

“We’re pleased with SDG&E’s proposal to enhance its transmission corridor infrastructure and ensure reliability and safety,” Jim Leach, chair of the South Orange County Economic Coalition, announced in a statement. “Recent events have highlighted just how dependent businesses are on reliable energy sources, powering computers, servers and a multitude of other electrical and mechanical devices.

“We’re very supportive of SDG&E’s project and will devote our resources to informing our members and the business community at-large.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Eye on SJC

News Bites

founded in 1988, and is headquartered in Encinitas and has eight offices throughout the state.

Dudek, founded by Frank Dudek, ranked 146 as U.S. environmental firms on an annual list published by Engineering News Record. It was the fifth consecutive year Dudek made the list.

About a dozen employees will work out of the Capistrano office, which is in O Plaza, across from El Adobe. The office is led by Dudek Vice President Bob Ohlund, also a Capistrano resident.

Compiled by Jonathan Volzke

Props, Recognitions and Morsels of Info

A Marine Mess u Major Gen. Ronald Bailey, commander of the 1st Marine Division, was on hand at Marbella Country Club October 20 when San Juan Capistrano’s adopted battalion committee held a formal “Mess Night” that raised more than $1,500 to support the 1/11 Marines and their families.

The Mess Night, a longstanding tradition in the corps, featured fines levied on the Marines and civilians alike for violations such as speaking out of turn, having bad hair cuts, or even reading the two pages of fineable infractions left at each place setting.

Also in attendance was the leader of the city’s adopted 1/11, Lt. Col. James McDonough, Assemblywoman Diane Harkey, and several Capistrano city council members and community leaders. Retired Marine Col. Jim Williams was the emcee, or president, for the night. Retired Marine

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter Comp iled By JONAT H AN VOLZ KE All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website (www.ocsd.org). The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher.

The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided.

Tuesday, October 25 TRESPASSING Del Obispo Street, 32200 Block (10:48 p.m.) A man jumped over the gate to get into an assisted-living home.

Capt., and former City Councilmember, Tom Hribrar was the “Vice,” or master of the fines.

The Cat is Back u The Black Cat Gallery–Pop Up is now open in the Vaquero West Building on Verdugo Street.

As it’s a “pop up gallery,” operator Randi Peshkin, who used to have a gallery in Franciscan Plaza, only has a lease until November 11. Actually, the building is supposed to be razed by December 11, under an agreement between the city and owner, who wants to put up a new plaza.

All the artists featured in the Black Cat Gallery are local and most of them participate in the Chamber of Commerce Second Saturday Art Fair.

The Black Cat Gallery– Pop Up is at 26755 Verdugo St, Ste 200 . Call 949.422.4959 or see www.theblackcatgallery.com

to find a bunch of their stuff missing, including many of the man’s guns.

Photo by Heather Nord

Dudek Moves Downtown u Dudek Engineering, recently ranked in the top 200 United States environmental firms as measured by revenue, has opened a San Juan Capistrano office.

Dudek helps clients, including local governments, plan, permit, design, construct and manage projects involving natural resources and infrastructure throughout California. The firm was

leave. They’d been there since 4 a.m.

DISTURBANCE Calle Delphina, 26400 Block (10:17 p.m.) A woman, crying as she called dispatchers, said her boyfriend slapped her face and pulled her hair.

She locked herself in the bedroom while he remained in the living room. A 37year-old man was arrested. He listed his occupation as “lead man.”

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32300 Block (8:48 p.m.)

A woman was ranting and raving outside her mobile home coach, a caller reported.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (6:19 a.m.) A woman—apparently homeless—was found sleeping in the aisle of a grocery store.

DISTURBANCE Calle San Francisco, 26500 Block (1:03 a.m.) A woman reported that her husband and mother kicked her out of the house.

PROWLER Paseo Del Mar, 26400 Block (12:42 a.m.) A prowler put his hand through an open window, but took off when he heard the resident was home.

Tuesday, October 24

Sunday, October 23

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 33800 Block (7:05 p.m.) A caller reported people were “lurking” around.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Sonoma Way, 29300 Block (10:38 p.m.)

Four men were drinking in a recently vacated home. The woman who called to complain called again, upset because the men left before deputies arrived.

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Larga, 27500 Block (12:41 p.m.) A woman reported people told her that her mother won lots of money, but when she questioned them about it, they told her they were with the FBI and would be at the house in 15 minutes.

BURGLARY Camino de Vista, 26500 Block (10:54 p.m.) A woman called her husband to report she’d just returned home

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (6:29 a.m.) A man and woman on the curb in front of a bagel shop refused to

The Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

Veterans Day Celebration

VANDALISM Paseo Adelanto, 32100 Block (5:07 p.m.)

Kids threw rocks from the alley behind the post office into the nearby impound lot, breaking a car window and damaging the roofs of several vehicles.

Saturday, October 22 WELFARE CHECK Peppertree Bend, 31700 Block (7:41 p.m.) A woman reported that a friend sent her a text saying he was “very numb” and doesn’t feel anymore.

She was worried about him.

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u San Juan Capistrano’s veterans invite the public to honor Veterans Day with their traditional ceremony in Veteran’s Memorial Park on Camino Capistrano at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 11. Afterward, Capistrano-based charity Homefront America will host a tribute to veterans in Historic Town Center Park until 3 p.m.

That event is free and includes a complimentary Barbecue lunch for veterans— the public can buy food. The event will also include live entertainment, so bring a chair. See www.homefrontamerica.org for details.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Via Mayor, 33100 Block (6:57 p.m.)

The father of a 9-year-old child was arrested, and the caller needed help picking up the child to take him and his sister to a shelter. Deputies had been called to the home earlier to help, too.

That report included the information that the boy’s 6-year-old sister had been left in a car alone for some time at the Orange County Fairgrounds.

WELFARE CHECK El Camino Real/Acjachema Street (5:39 p.m.) A woman reported a man was hitting her and her son, and threw an orange at her.

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Alipaz Street, 32300 Block (5:17 p.m.)

Two female teens were reportedly drunk inside a mobile home park. They were “stumbling around,” the caller reported, and the park manager was in hot pursuit in his golf cart. A few minutes later, dispatchers received another call about two drunk female teens in a nearby neighborhood. Deputies took one girl to San Clemente hospital.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Camino Capistrano/Junipero Serra (10:30 a.m.) A man was riding a threewheel ATV with a trailer attached near the railroad tracks. A caller thought he might be stealing copper wiring.

Deputies caught up with the man in the open space. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Jonathan Volzke, 949.388.7700, x108 jvolzke@thecapistranodispatch.com ADVERTISING Sergio Sanchez, 949.388.7700, x104 ssanchez@thecapistranodispatch.com Buddy Purel, 949.234.1284 bpurel@thecapistranodispatch.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

We’ve Been Hacked “D ad,” my son said over the phone the other morning, “your email addresses have been hacked. That is unless you’re now a salesman for Viagra and Cialis.”

“Are those the guys that look at their Patrick O’Brien wives and then decide to pitch a tent or sit in porcelain bathtubs on a cold night and stare at the ocean?

“Yep. The same.”

Now, I haven’t wanted to camp out since a bivouac in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri with a rifle and a rain so hard that the water was up to the top of my boots and it was dark and hot and everyone in “training” foxholes were using single-syllable words to express their dismay.

Some even prayed in “harsh voices.”

Yes, I’d been hacked. Some one was using my name and my address book to send out ads for romance enhancers. I was going to say “I felt na--d” but I won’t.

It’s silly.

What is a hacker? A phony who uses one image to cover another. It seems that San Juan has been hacked.

Letters to the Community WHO IS THE VICTIM? Rob Lindquist, San Juan Capistrano In reading Councilman Reeve’s op-ed piece, I am struck by the note of him as victim, written with all the trite code-words, e.g., political correctness, liberal and even ultra-liberal.

He defends his naming of his dog after the Prophet Mohammed in terms of free speech. The issue, however, is not free-speech. Rather, it is one of judgment and leadership. Let’s call a spade a spade: the naming of his dog was meant to be derogatory. Yes, Councilman Reeve is free to name his dog any derogatory name he wants, whether it be Mohammed or the Angel Moroni or Pope Benedict or even the N word. It is for that right of free speech that our brave servicemen and women are fightThe Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 9, Issue 20. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch ) is published twice monthly 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 2011. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA CEO > Norb Garrett

PRINT AND ONLINE

PATRICK O’BRIEN: The Way I See It

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

EDITORIAL Group Editor, Editor, The Dispatch > Jonathan Volzke City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne City Editor, SC Times > Stacie N. Galang ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Heidi Mefferd

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Sergio Sanchez (San Juan Capistrano) Sales Associates > Angela Edwards > Buddy Purel

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, George Mackin CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, David Zimmerle

OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed

It’s from the same group who likes to sell liberty and patriotism and no new taxes as if they are the only ones who are patriotic and love freedom and dislike the necessary discomfort of paying taxes to make sure the schools continue, the roads are repaired, the libraries function, police and fire departments are professionally staffed and well equipped. It is the same group that likes to cite themselves as ”Real ‘Mericans.” It’s the same group who would like to see all persons of color, anyone but white, shipped off, sent away, kept out of work, impoverished and ‘by golly’ we’d like open carry to prove our manhood.

You have to wonder how this simplistic agenda got to be a religion with these folks? For it is, indeed, an act of secular faith.

And that brings me to Derek Reeves and his defenders. A man has a right to an opinion no matter how divergent from the general population’s preference, but he does not have the right to borrow word for word the opinions of others and pass them off as his own. As a college professor, I have dealt with plagiarism. I taught English and journalism. There are always those trying for the shortcut—unfortunately. However, fortunately, they are in the smallest minority of students I’ve known. When two students turned in the same research paper, word for word, and the didn’t know each

other (really bad classroom research of the teacher), I gave them an option. Take an ”F” in the course or let’s call in your pastor and your parents and discuss this. They took the “F” and retook the course. They were kids.

Derek Reeves is not a kid. He has credentials, presumably obtained by his own sweat.

And quite frankly, I feel sorry for Mr. Reeves. He has been fooled by the friendship of his own supporters to be a man who follows basic “ agenda principles.” And now he is the sacrificial lamb of their anger and hatred.

To be called a “pinhead” by Bill O’Reilly, right-wing pseudo news, on national television, cannot be an experience once wishes for. It is a bit of the pot calling the kettle black. The humiliation must be terrible, and even though I don’t agree with any of Mr. Reeves stances, I do feel sorry for him. He has not had an easy life, but he has made up some of his own problems.

If I were he, what would I do? I would probably resign.

When the firestorm is bigger than the person, and I’ve been in the woods to see them, you do not stand and become cinders, you flee as best you can.

Oh where, oh where is Mark Nielsen now that we need him? As I said in an earlier column—we need to pay attention.

Resident Patrick O’Brien is a retired community college professor and author.

ing in Afghanistan.

However, Councilman Reeve announced the name of his dog during council proceedings. That interjects the issue into the politics of our fair city and indeed makes it a headline and gratuitously divisive issue that brings all the attention that he now claims is unwanted. It shows profound lack of judgment and discretion and I fully subscribe to the principle that elected officials are held to a higher standard of good judgment and discretion as our leaders—that’s why we elect them and pay them. Yes, our servicemen are fighting for our free speech and other freedoms in Afghanistan. In doing so, they are going into villages striving to win the trust and support of the locals.

As Councilman Reeve notes, this is the age of the Internet and the naming of his dog Mohammed has made it on to the worldwide web. The Taliban are artful users of these kinds of stories, as witnessed by the rioting and killing they whipped up in April in response to the news on the Internet of the Florida preacher burning the Koran. The job of our servicemen and woman

venturing into those villages is made more difficult by these kind of antics. It is they that are the victims here, not Councilman Reeve.

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A VOTE FOR COURTESY —Susan Eberhardt, San Juan Capistrano I echo Councilman Larry Kramer’s call for “the highest standard of morality” and “common courtesy” by city council members in his response to Councilman Derek Reeve’s unnecessary and tasteless comments regarding the naming of his dog Muhammad.

Mr. Reeve’s remarks seemed designed to be insulting to Muslims, regardless of his right to speak them freely.

I am not Muslim, but his words, and his behavior since he uttered them, offend me as Christian and a citizen of San Juan Capistrano. I expect my City Council members to respect the interests of all the residents of San Juan Capistrano, regardless of race, religion or creed. Mr. Reeves, however, used his right to free speech, and his position on the council dais, to demonstrate contempt for (Cont. on page 10) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 8) the interests of a particular religious group. Although Mr. Reeve claims that he respects “the many honorable members of that faith” and denies that he intended insult, he refused to apologize for his comments, which makes me worry that this councilman lacks honesty, good manners, and/or good sense.

I applaud Councilman Kramer and Mayor Allevato for calling Mr. Reeves to task over this incident, which embarrasses the council and shames the city.

A Community Effort

By Rivka Bent, San Juan Capistrano Back in February of this year my son, Cole, returned home to San Juan Capistrano from serving in the United States Marine Corps. In March, one month after his return, thanks to symptoms from hemorrhage, we learned he had a rare, cancerous brain tumor on his brain stem propelling him into immediate surgery. During the two months hospital stay and these past four months of rehabilitation, our family has had the privilege of experiencing the generosity and compassion of so many people.

As is customary with illness of any kind, family and friends rally around and support the familial unit being affected. However, in this letter, it is the generosity of the community at large that I wish to highlight.

Because Cole is military affiliated, there are many avenues of correspondence which are required. Faxes, certified letters, copies, over-nighted documents, etc. I cannot thank Bill and Susan Odelson of the Paper Annex in Marbella Plaza, enough for their unconditional help.

They have established, “Cole’s Tab”; a non-existent

The Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

account where they keep the balance due at $0.00.

Yet they weekly fax, copy, and mail out a multitude of information on Cole’s behalf without giving it a second thought. Additionally, Bill, a veteran himself, has kept a watchful eye over my correspondence methodology to ensure every “i” is dotted and “t” is crossed. Who would have thought our local mail-station/stationary counter would care so much? While our balance due on ‘Cole’s Tab’ is zero, our debt of gratitude can never be repaid.

Another fine example of giving comes from our neighboring city of San Clemente. Back in June I took Cole to the Ole Hanson Beach Club to see if an aquatic class could accommodate him and his rehabilitative needs.

The manager of the pool, Marty, generously took Cole’s cause into consideration and welcomed him to utilize any and all of their equipment. On that first meeting we were also greeted by one of the instructors, Vicky, who offered her rehabilitative knowledge and expertise to Cole, twice a week for the entire summer; free of charge. Debra and Cane, other instructors who teach at the Ole Hanson pool, were considerate enough to share their rented time in the water, allowing Vicky to work her magic with Cole which ultimately improved his strength and balance. Everyone at Ole Hanson looked upon Cole with a compassion that brought me to tears every time we went. As with Bill and Susan, our gratitude to all of the people we encountered this summer while at Ole Hanson is immeasurable and forever felt.

In addition to the two aforementioned community establishments, there are multiple community members who have offered support. For instance, Buddy the owner of Frio our downtown gelato/frozen yogurt hub,

Page 10

has shown compassion towards our family and slipped Cole a gelato “on the house” once or twice. An associate working at Kinko’s, learned he was photocopying Cole’s medical chart to send overnight to the VA and decided to take the expense out of his own pocket. There is more than one Costco employee praying for Cole’s recovery as well as Greg from Staples who has faithfully been praying for Cole since his deployment to Afghanistan in 2010.

Professors and staff from Saddleback College inquire often into Cole’s progress along with Professors Carmenmara and Beatrice, who visited Cole in ICU more than once. Boy Scout Troop 724 has come alongside our family with generosity and hands on assistance. Optometrist, Dr. Joe Heinrich, has donated an eye exam, and Ocampo’s Landscaping is keeping up our yard. The librarian at the San Juan Library, the owners from Hummingbird Café and Arthur from the Old Barn have given us much encouragement during the difficult days in our journey.

The concept of “it takes a village to raise children” is credited to Hillary Clinton; however, the practice of it falls into the hands of our southland community.

Though we have traffic congestion daily, and frustrations that come from living in crowded areas, we also have a community support system that assuages the tension of gridlock and smoothes the wrinkles of our differences.

We are a community of varying races, faiths, political views, and parenting styles. Yet when challenges arrive, we become of the same blood and of the same purpose.

Our village is strong because it is full of compassionate and beautiful people. We are honored to be a part of it.

The Capistrano Dispatch is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Locals Only

Business Directory The only directory featuring San Juan Capistrano businesses exclusively

Air Conditioning & HEATING Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

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

Banking Independence Bank 949.373.8963 32291 Camino Capistrano, Suite A, www.independence-bank.net

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

COMPUTER SERVICES

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT Memories of Me Photography Santa is back! Schedule your professional photos with Santa! Session with Santa includes session for 1 child approx. 15 minutes (each additional child additional $10) Parents and Doggies are FREE! ALL digital, printable, high-res. images on a CD are yours to keep the same day! (Approx. 100+ images!) November 19th & 20th, 11am- 4pm for only $69. November 26th & 27th, 11am- 4pm for only $69. December 3rd & 4th, 11am- 4pm for only $79. Reserve Now! 949.361.0680, GailMarino@cox.net, www.memoriesofmephotos.com

San Clemente Computer & Network Services daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 Kitchen Design Tired of Waiting I.T. Services 949.922.7727 Kitchen & Bath Designs j.ehle@cox.net 27231 Ortega Hwy., Unit B

Friess Electric 949.248.4222 32332 Camino Capistrano, Suite 102

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

Experience The Mission

MORTGAGE 949.697.9454

PAINTING SUPPLIES

Dunn-Edwards Painting, Inc. 949.234.1201 Historic Mission San Juan Capistrano 31896 Plaza Dr. Unit D-1, Plaza Del Obispo Center Exciting New Audio Tour 949.234.1300 26801 Ortega Highway, www.missionsjc.com Photo & Digital Lab

Insurance Capistrano Health & Life www.capistranohealthlife.com

949.697.9454

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

CLASSIFIEDS Auto For Sale 2003 Harley-Davidson 2003 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy 100th Anniversary FLSTFI black 12,800 miles $5300 No time wasters! WARDEN334@GMAIL.COM

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@ thecapistranodispatch.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY

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

949.212.0499

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

SCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. 949.493.2426 949.661.4080 27126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com

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

Excel Electric - CA #793860 949.493.7769 Capistrano Health & Life www.capistranohealthlife.com 32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, www.excelelectric.com

PRINTING Printing OC

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

Slab leak repair

MOLD REMOVAL

ELECTRICIANS

DC Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning www.dcplumbing.net 949.365.9044 Pronto Plumbing (El Plomero) 949.246.3589 31878 Del Obispo Ste. 118-227, www.prontodrain.com SCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. 949.493.2426 27126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com

San Juan Photo & Digital 949.661.5668 32301 Camino Capistrano, www.sjcphotodigital.com

TELEVISION Reeltime Sight and Sound 949-240-0555 26381 Via De Anza, www.reeltimesightandsound.com

WATER CONSERVATION Xeriflo Plumbing Systems 949.276.7000 www.xeriflo.com

WATER DAMAGE Jarvis Restoration

949.362.5388 31942 Paseo Sagrado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

WINDOW CLEANING/ PRESSURE WASHING Bayside Window Cleaning 949.290.8230 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

YOGA Adelanto Studio Yoga & Life Arts 949.705.7344 32118 Paseo Adelanto, Ste.9, www.adelantostudio.net

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

Get your business listed today.

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

PLUMBING A to Z Leak Detection www.atozleakdetection.com Chick’s Plumbing

www.chicks-plumbing.com

949.499.4464 949.496.9731

S u bm i t y o u r class i f i e d a d o n l i n e a t www . t hecap i s t ra n o d i spa t ch . c o m

HELP WANTED Clerk Typist Clerk typist for pharmacy in San Clemente.

Hrs. 9-6 M-F, plus some Sat. 9-1. Experience and local residence preferred. Fax resume to (949) 496-0489.

Medical/Health Services FREE PREGNANCY TESTS Think you might be pregnant? Know for sure.

Free services including limited ultrasound referrals, counseling, resources, classes, and support. Walk-ins welcome. Call 949-218-5777.

GETTING OUT

YOUR TWO-WEEK EVENT PLANNER

THE LIST

A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town this week. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

friday

FALL CONCERT SERIES 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Live music under the stars at San Juan Hills Golf Club featuring The Kelly Boys, Shawn Jones, Helicopter, Bill & Betsy Backal and Kevin Cameron. Free admission. Food and drink available. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, 949.493.1167, www.sanjuanhillsgolf.com.

28

saturday

SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE DOOM OF DEVILSMOOR 8 p.m. Play on Stage II at Camino Real Playhouse.

Shows through Oct. 30. Tickets $18. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse. org.

29

ECOTOBERFEST 3 p.m.-5 p.m. The Ecology Center hosts an exclusive beer talk and tasting with New Belgium Brewing’s own Matty Gilliand. Ryan Wilson of SideDoor provides pairing of pretzels and mustard. Tickets $15-$25, includes take-home pint glass. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949-443-4223, www.TheEcologyCenter.org.

REMEMBRANCE MASS 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Mass held at the Old Mission Historic Cemetery to honor those ancestors, families & friends who are no longer with us. Pot luck gathering immediately following the Mass at the Blas Aguilar Adobe. More info: 949.496.8782.

HALLOWEEN INSECT & ARTHROPOD FAMILY WALK 9 a.m.-11 a.m. The Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy.

Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

NIGHT OF THE DEAD: AN EVENING AT THE GRAVES 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Preview the library’s Day of the Dead festivities featuring artwork and altars, meet the artists, live entertainment, mariachis and food and beverages.

Tickets $20. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

The Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

SPOTLIGHT: ‘Buy My Bikes’ Celebrates 33

Years

Jim Curwood is that popular San Juan bike store owner who jumps up and down on TV shouting, “buy my bikes, buy my bikes!” Since he is known to enjoy twisting the norm a bit, there was little surprise when he announced an October 15 celebration for his store’s 33 -year anniversary at the San Clemente Elks Lodge. In keeping with his phonograph theme, he asked guests to bring one of their favorite 33 long playing records.

More than 400 attended, and at least 50 brought LPs. The albums ranged from Montovoni to Cheech and Chong and got a lot of laughs. The party featured a DJ and boogie band for dancing, a caricature artist and food stations serving sushi, tacos and nachos.

Curwood opened his store on Camino Capistrano on June 15, 1978, when Jim Curwood, right celebrates. Courtesy photo he was 22. He is still at that location, but has expanded three times.

Aside from Buy My Bikes’ 5-star reputation for service, and its loyal customer base, Curwood is known as a generous supporter of South County causes for kids. To help fundraising, he regularly donates bikes to Boys & Girls Clubs and over 85 schools and churches. He also gives away a bike at each San Juan Summer Nights concert. According to Curwood, his store’s next anniversary party will likely be its 45th. See www.buymybikes.com. —John Caldwell

CREATE YOUR OWN HALLOWEEN/HARVEST FAIRY GARDEN 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Class at Cottage Home and Garden. Free with the purchase of materials. 31720 Los Rios St., 949.493.3920, www.cottage-home-and-garden.com.

sunday

DAY OF THE DEAD: A CELEBRATION OF LIFE AND FAMILY 12 p.m.-5 p.m.

Day of the Dead celebration at the library featuring children’s crafts, artwork and altars, Casa de Calaveras (House of Skeletons), food, face painting and performers: Capistrano Community Mariachi Program, San Juan Capistrano Ballet Folklorico and Huehueteotl Aztec Dance Group. Free admission. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

30

HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. SJC Historical Society leads a tour to see Los Rios Historical District, O’Neill Museum, Montanez Adobe, the Mission, Rios Adobe and more. Meet at the train depot on Verdugo Street. Every Sunday. $2 adults, $1 children. 949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

wednesday

NETWORKING BREAKFAST 7:30 a.m. The San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce hosts the event at The Vintage Steak House. Cost $10-$20. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3400, www.sanjuanchamber.com

02

thursday

GARDEN ANGELS 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Park cleanup at Los Rios Park with free lunch at Ramos House Cafè for participants. 31661 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.

03

friday

04

FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7 p.m.-9 p.m. The library shows the film, The Music Never Stopped; $2 donation. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

Page 12

saturday

POSTCARDS FROM THE PAST EXHIBIT An exhibit of historic postcards on display through January at the Santa Margarita Ranch House National Historic Site. Public tours available, and entrance is free. Contact 760.725.0770 or MCBCAMPEN.history.fct@usmc.mil for directions and reservations.

05

MARIACHIS AT THE MISSION 10 a.m.-10:30 a.m.; 10:45 a.m.-11:15 a.m. Enjoy live music on the Mission San Juan Capistrano Courtyard every Saturday in September.

Admission $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

FAMILY FILM FEATURE 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The library shows the family-friendly film Cars 2, featuring free popcorn and more. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR 10 a.m. Discover 200 years of San Juan Capistrano architecture on a 90-minute guided walk that includes adobes, Spanish-era dwellings and modern buildings. Meet at Verdugo Street.

Occurs every Saturday. $5 donation. 949.489.0736.

tuesday

08

SCORE BUSINESS WORKSHOP 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Chamber event at the library.

31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

thursday

MICRO CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING 8 p.m. Event at The Coach House. Tickets $25.

33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

10

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

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@thecapistranodispatch.com www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

4

LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR friday 10.28

wednesday 11.02

wednesday 11.09

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

Downtown Farmers Market 3 p.m., Yorba Street, south of Ortega Highway

Transportation Commission Meeting 6 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto

Sacramento Update by Assemblywoman Diane Harkey 6 p.m. San Juan Capistrano Community Center 25925 Camino del Avion

friday 11.11

tuesday 11.01

tuesday 11.08

City Council Meeting 6 p.m.., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto

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

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

TOM BLAKE: On Life and Love After 50

The Importance of Moving on after Losing Love E arlier this month, I wrote a column about Susan, 56, who was angry and bitter that her husband repeatedly cheated on her before dumping her after 31 years of marriage. In ON LIFE AND the article, Susan said she LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake was too damaged and too hurt to ever love again.

“I will not allow anyone to get close to me and I will never be vulnerable again.

No one will ever know everything about me, my friends, my interests, my belongings,” Susan stated.

Column readers responded with advice for Susan. But it’s also advice for anyone who has been hurt in a relationship. Several of the more meaningful comments follow.

Mindy said, “My advice would be not to let Susan’s ex-husband still control her life, dictate her future thoughts, behaviors, and actions. Does she really want to give him that much power? She should have a dumping day.

“Once and for all dump his fanny; she might stand a chance to really live, maybe for the first time.”

Marta said, “Susan, you are giving too much power to one person. He is only one man on the planet—you can’t let one loser change your ability to love, you have many good years left, and there are good men around.”

Pat, “The longer Susan resists any new relationship, she is giving her ex power over her life. I’ve been divorced and widowed, loving again was the last thing on my mind after each. I’m now in a longterm committed relationship for seven years. We liked each other first and then fell in love. Lucky? Maybe, but we were both open to finding someone special.”

Jan gave sage advice: “Susan needs to forgive. Her anger and bitterness is affecting her physical and emotional health. She says she can’t help it, but she can. Whatever life she lives now is not her ex’s fault—it is now all hers.

She is the only one responsible for how she reacts to people and things, for what she holds inside, for what she cuts out of her life, for deciding to remain damaged indefinitely and especially whether she wants to be happy.

“I watched my mother who remained divorced until her death wrap herself around a cloak of bitterness, and I have other friends in their 50s who have decided the same thing. It didn’t just affect her or my friends—it affects everyone around them, because the bitterness and unhappiness spills out.

You find yourself walking on egg shells around certain conversations, to avoid the unpleasant comments.

“The first thing I did after my husband split was to get a good therapist to help me move forward as quickly as possible. I didn’t want to waste one more minute of hurting or caring about someone who had already moved on and didn’t care about me. It’s a process and a choice, and I choose to be happy!”

Gloria said, “At this stage in life, we all have baggage. It’s not the baggage, but what we choose to do with it that makes a difference.”

Gale pointed out what can happen to people when they get rid of their anger: “I was married for many years to an alcoholic who one day out of the blue declared, ‘I’m tired of working on the marriage.’ Of course, he never went to one AA meeting! He had someone else on the side also. We divorced.

“I moved to another state, met the

The Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

love of my life, and had eight wonderful years with him before he passed away three years ago. If I had let that ex influence my feelings about men, I’d never have met and married my Ian. They were the best years of my life.”

Dan summed up all of this wonderful advice by sharing, “The best advice I ever received, to get rid of years of pain and anger was from my priest: ‘Forgive them.’

“You don’t have to like what was done or like them but you won’t find peace

Page 14

until you forgive them. Then you can move on and love yourself and perhaps another again. It isn’t easy, but it works.”

For all who have been hurt in a relationship, it’s better to forgive and let go.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. To comment on his column, email him at TompBlake@gmail.com. See his website at www.FindingLoveAfter50.com

PATROL BASE JAKER Patrol Base Jaker, a documentary that follows the deployment of the Marine Corps 1/5 battalion during its tour of the Nawa District of Afghanistan in 2009¬–2010, will be shown Sunday in San Clemente. The Marines’ work in Nawa to turn the area from Taliban rule became the template for the Marine’s effort in Afghanistan, and the film won the “Best Documentary” award at the GI Film Festival in 2010. The 1/5 is also the unit in which Lance Cpl. Donald Hogan, a 20-year-old infantryman from San Clemente, served.

Hogan was killed on August 26, 2009 as he saved other Marines from a bomb. For his heroism, Hogan will posthumously receive the Navy Cross.

His parents, Jim and Carla Hogan,

will receive the medal in December.

The Hogans will attend Sunday’s screening, along with members of the 1/5 who were on the deployment documented in the film.

Producer David Scantling and Col. Robert Castellvi, the chief of staff for the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Pendleton, will also be on hand.

Patrol Base Jaker will be shown at the San Clemente Community Center at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 and $10 for active military or students. Proceeds benefit the San Clemente Marine Corp Support Group, a 501(c)3 registered charity. Get more information or purchase tickets online at danapoint5thmarines.com/san-clemente-jaker-movie.

—Jonathan Volzke www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING JAN SIEGEL: A Moment in Time

Ghost Tales, and Ghostly Walks O ne of the wonderful things about San Juan Capistrano is how history and the present are always coming together. And this time of the year is the best example of that.

And this year, the past and present Jan Siegel come together in a very special way.

The folklore of San Juan Capistrano is endless. There are many, many stories which have been handed down through the local generations.

One such story is about “Gloria, the Friendly Ghost.”

Pam Gibson, in her book, Ghosts and Legends of San Juan Capistrano relates several stories about “Gloria.”

The description of this ghost is always the same. A lady dressed in white, with long black hair who seems to “float” down the street. The name Gloria was given to her by a stewardess, who when coming home from a trip often found her home in disarray but nothing was ever taken. One Christmas, Gloria was felt through a foggy haze that encompassed the room with the tree and presents and then later knocked the tree over and scattered the presents. Again, nothing was taken. To rid her presence in this house a séance was held, and Gloria was asked to leave because she was upsetting the owner of the house. The white lady did not return to that house.

But who is Gloria? She has been seen by many local residents through the years, but who she really is remains a mystery. “Is this the same ghost that many followed to find buried treasure in the foothills off Del Obispo? Is this the same ghost that dances on

tombstones? There was a newspaper story in 1890 that recalls the event of a “young, beautiful girl, with long black hair and a long white dress, who was so despondent over the loss of her lover that she took strychnine and died on his front porch.”

Some people have suggested that Gloria is really, Modesta Avila, the girl, who was the first female felon convicted in Orange County in 1889 for attempting to derail the train coming through San Juan Capistrano.

To find out more about friendly and not so friendly ghosts, the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society is holding a Ghost Walk down Los Rios Street on Saturday, October 29 at 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Reservations, which are a must for this yearly sold-out event, can be made at the Historical Society on Los Rios Street or by calling 949.493.8444.

There is a new novel out that portrays Modesta Avila as one of the heroines of the book. Much of this book, Gathering the Indigo Maidens by Cecilia Velastegui, takes place in Southern California and particularly in San Juan Capistrano. The Mission, the train depot, and Los Rios Street are all part of the storyline of this novel. The book, which sells in soft cover for $15, would make a great stocking stuffer for the holidays.

It is available on Amazon.com and at Barnes and Noble book stores.

So take a moment in time to explore the wonderful folklore associated with San Juan Capistrano by reading Gathering the Indigo Maidens, Ghost and Legends of San Juan Capistrano, which is available for sale at the Historical Society, and taking the Ghost Walk with the

Historical Society.

Remember, if you take the Ghost Walk, bring a flashlight. You never know who or what may go “floating” by on Los Rios Street.

Jan Siegel is a member of the Cultural Heritage Commission and Historical Society Board of Directors. Her name appears on the city’s “Wall of Recognition.”

Fiesta Association Picks 2012 Señor San Juan, Ms. Fiesta

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

S

eñor San Juan and Ms. Fiesta 2012, John “Fish” Fischle and Nancy Ingham, say they are proud to represent the Fiesta Association membership and to promote the 2012 Swallows Day Parade theme “How The West Was Fun!” Fish’s family arrived in Anaheim in 1903 from Germany, and he was raised in La Habra. He moved to South County in 1987 and has lived in Dana Point (Capistrano by the Sea) for the last nine years. He has been active in Fiesta Association for 10 years and also with the Mission San Juan Capistrano Living History Program, San Juan Capistrano Historical Society and San Juan Capistrano Spurs and Satin, an 1880s re-enactment group of cowboys and grand ladies of the Old West. Fish has his bachelor’s degree in graphic communications from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and master’s degree in educational administration from Cal State Fullerton. Fish has been teaching for 35 years and is currently employed by the Orange County Department of Education. He works as a high school teacher with the ACCESS high school program, where he taught in San Juan Capistrano for 10 years as a photography teacher and for the last five years in Dana Point.

Nancy was raised in Michigan, moved to South County and has lived in Capistrano Beach since 1984.

The Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

Señor San Juan and Ms Fiesta 2012, John “Fish” Fischle and Nancy Ingham in the tub at Zoomar’s Petting Zoo, where they were crowned the Fiesta Association dignitaries. At right, others enjoy the Fiesta Association’s kick-off barbecue. Photos courtesy Fiesta Association

She has been an active community volunteer, but says she has preferred to be a “behind the scenes” volunteer by quietly performing random acts of kindness to those in need. She volunteered her time and talents at Ambuehl Elementary and Marco Forster, where her daughters attended school and has participated with the San Clemente Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution. This is Nancy’s third year with Page 16

the Fiesta Association, and she is an active member of Mission San Juan Capistrano Living History Program and San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Bob Jones University and has been a business owner, classic race car driver and is currently employed by Saddleback Valley Volleyball Club.

The 2012 Swallows Day Parade will be March 24. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

5 BEST BETS FOOTBALL

BOYS WATER POLO

Saddleback vs.

Kilpatrick JSerra High

San Juan Hills vs.

Tesoro Tesoro High School

October 28, 6:30 p.m.

November 1, 4:15 p.m.

Saddleback Valley Christian Schools looks to continue its undefeated season, facing off against Kilpatrick from Malibu.

The Stallions take on the Titans—an interesting game because the teams shared Tesoro’s pool for four years while San Juan Hills waits for its pool to be finished.

Info:www.svcschools.org

HOCKEY

Oilers vs. Kings Staples Center November 3, 7:30 p.m.

FOOTBALL

FOOTBALL

Stallions vs.

Wolverines Aliso Niguel High

JSerra vs. Mater Dei Saddleback College November 11, 7:30 p.m.

November 4, 7 p.m.

The Los Angeles Kings hit up home ice after several games on the road in an effort to dispatch the visiting Edmonton Oilers.

The Stallions continue to look for their first win in a tough season, the first under head coach Aaron Flowers.

Info: www.kings.nhl.com

Info: http://www.sjhhs. org/athletics

The JSerra Lions face the always-tough Mater Dei Monarchs in the last regular-season game of 2011. The Lions were 4-3 as of press time, while the Monarchs stood at 3-4.

Info:www.jserra.org

Info: http://www.sjhhs. org/athletics

Capo Residents Participate in Orangeman Triathlon The Capistrano Dispatch

M

ore than a dozen San Juan Capistrano residents participated in the first Orangeman Triathlon, which started in Dana Point and worked its way through Capistrano up the Ortega until returning to the beach city.

About 700 athletes from California and 16 other states participated in the inaugural event on September 25, organizers said. The course included a 1.2-mile ocean swim at Salt Creek Beach, a 56-mile “out-and-back” bike course that passed through Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano and smaller communities along Ortega Highway; and finished with a two-lap run course on Salt Creek Regional Trail totaling 13.1 miles.

San Juan Capistrano residents who participated in the full race were: Mark Arenal, 54, Ashley Casas, 28, Troy Dueker, 45, Eric Hanke, 42, Robert Heinman, 60, Dan Friess, 39, Rick Friess, 46, Marissa Hanke, 40, John Jacobsen, 40, Gina Jooyan, 43, Steve Lavering, 52, Cherise Matthews, 40, Ron Matthews, Jay Mersch, 61, Liza Pandolfo, 37, Stephen Peeker, 58, Michael Richard-son, 45, Aida Wasilewski, 50 and Kim Weirath, 50.

Organizers said overall winner, Alex Begg, 49 from San Diego, “squeezed” the competition with a time of 4:51:24 and San Diego resident Kathryn Kasischke dominated as the Overall Female winner (5:23:32). Of the Capistrano competitors, Hanke finished 38th place overall, while Weirath finished 18th among female competitors. She was second in her division. Many of the local racers did well in their age/sex divisions.

Organizers said they plan to bring back the event next year.

“We could not be more excited to bring athletes from all over to compete in a world-class race at a premier venue,” David Flournoy, race director and co-Founder of Go Forward Racing, and long-time multi-sport enthusiast, said in a statement. Flournoy and co-director Clegg Porter worked with officials from the municipalities of Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Niguel to gain approvals and make the race the best possible. “Premier events like Orangeman stimulate local economies” said Porter. “Athletes fill up local resorts and hotels, eat at restaurants and shop at local businesses.” CD

NFL Flag South OC Goes South for the Winter NFL Flag South Orange County has just announced its first Winter Season to be played in San Juan Capistrano at Capistrano Valley Christian School with games on Saturdays beginning December 10. Players in this non-contact youth flag football league have the chance to be an official NFL player (reversible NFL Flag team jersey included) while learning lessons in teamwork. Register today at: www.nflflag.com or call 949.303.0328.

The Capistrano Dispatch October 28–November 10, 2011

Photo by Andrea Swayne

Cycling Foundation Donates $10,000 to Boys & Girls Club Children from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley, San Juan Capistrano location, club administrators and Dana Point Community Cycling Foundation members gathered on October 26 for the presentation of a $10,000 check by the DPCCF to the Boys and Girls Club.

Pictured here are club members (front row L to R) Wyatt Romero, Kaylin Lopez, Dominick Dare and Crystal Core and (back row L to R) Dana Point Community Cycling Foundation Directors Roger Worthington, Steven Weinberg, Cyndi Elders and Brad Fowler; Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley Executive Director James Littlejohn and Board President Bill Cole; DPCCF Program Director Lynn Kelly and DPCCF Executive Director Russ Ames.

This is the fifth year that the DPCCF and the Boys & Girls Clubs have partnered to promote cycling as a healthy activity for children and families at the Breakaway from Cancer Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling.

JSerra Water Polo Plays with Soul for Charity JSerra Boys’ Water Polo ran a charitable fundraiser for “Soles 4 Souls” on October 20 during their Trinity League Game against Santa Margarita. While playing three games in a span of two hours, the team was able to collect more than 150 pairs of gently used and new shoes to donate. The team sent out its thanks to all of the donors, families, administration, teachers and friends that supported them and “Soles 4 Souls.”The charity that provides shoes to anyone who needs them. It has worked in 127 countries.

For more information, see www.soles4souls.org.

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