The Capistrano Dispatch

S A N J U A N C A P I S T R A N O ’ S N O. 1 LO C A L N E W S PA P E R

F E B R U A RY 24 – M A R C H 8 , 2 0 1 2 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 4

Rock Solid

Olsen Pavingstone Celebrates 40 Years of Business E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 4

Pernille Olsen of San Juan Capistrano at the Olsen Pavingstone Ortega Highway Plant. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

Immigration Officials: Budget Forces Tough Decisions

Annual Fiesta Pet Parade Set for Sunday

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 6

INSIDE: Festival of Whales Event Program

EYE ON SJC

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SAN CLEMENTE The Orange County Sheriff’s Department confirmed Darren Sandberg is the name of the deputy involved in the shooting of Marine Sgt. Manuel Loggins at San Clemente High February 7. Sheriff’s spokesman Jim Amormino said the 15-year veteran of the department remains on leave while the shooting is being investigated by the Orange County District Attorney’s office. Sandberg served in the Marines for four years and has been awarded the sheriff department’s Medal for Lifesaving and the Medal of Courage, according to the Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs.

While the union defended the deputy, Loggins friends have come forward to support a man they described as Christian, helpful and polite.

As of Wednesday, about 160 people had joined a Facebook page dedicated to Loggins, a father of three with a fourth on the way.

DANA POINT

NEWS

NEXT DOOR WH AT ’S GO I N G O N I N OU R NE IG H B O R I N G TOW N S

City Council on Tuesday voted 4-1 to pass a second reading and adopt an ordinance banning the use of expanded polystyrene food service ware at local food vendors, city facilities and city sponsored events. Council also voted 4-1 to approve the “second” first reading of an ordinance that will ban point of sale distribution of single-use plastic bags at retail establishments. Councilman Bill Brough, who voted “No” on both, introduced his own ordinance favoring a more holistic approach to the problem and favors making the city a litter-free zone to address the entire scope of protecting the environment from pollution. Coucil man Scott Schoeffel proposed adding a directive to the bag ordinance to include Brough’s proposal as well as instructing the Dana Point Destiny Committee to work on a program to incentivize business compliance.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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...The SDG&E Substation?

THE LATEST: A new, larger San Diego Gas & Electric substation should not generate any new impacts, according to a resolution passed by the City Council on Tuesday.

The council, after seeing a presentation from SDG&E and hearing from concerned residents, said the proposal leaves too many questions unanswered.

The utility proposes expanding the substation on Camino Capistrano at Calle Bonita. A 1918 building there now would be razed and two 50-foot-tall buildings would be built to house the electrical equipment. The substation would handle twice as much power, to meet increased electrical demands.

But the City Council unanimously condemned the project. Among the concerns was how electromagnetic fields generated by the increased voltage would impact residents as well as how the project would appear so close to the downtown.

WHAT’S NEXT: SDG&E’s Duane Cave said the utility will continue working with the city on the project. SDG&E expects to submit the project to the Public Utilities Commission later this year. The city actually has little authority over the project, but can make its case to the PUC. Councilman Sam Allevato did not participate in the discussion because the project would run through his Rancho Madrina neighborhood.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

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...A Wheelchair in the Parade?

THE LATEST: For 53 years, the San Juan The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 8, 2012

Capistrano Swallows Day Parade has advertised itself as one of the largest nonmotorized parades in the country.

Fiesta Association organizers were firm on the rules banning all motorized vehicles, even wheelchairs.

This year, there’ll be an asterisk with that rule, thanks to Herb and Heidi Langefeld and the San Juan Capistrano City Council.

Herb Langefeld, who uses a motorized wheelchair, wanted to join the parade, and he and his sister, Heidi, thought there could be an exception. But Langefeld, 43, was initially turned away.

After weeks of discussions with the Fiesta Association, Heidi Langefeld took up the issue with the Capistrano City Council, which on Tuesday was considering street-closure permits for the parade.

“My hope and desire is that you understand that I believe the parade should come into the 21st century and be a more inclusive celebration and not exclusionary,” Heidi Langefeld told the council.

The council approved permits with the condition medically required wheelchairs be allowed. Fiesta Association President Steve Weekes said the board endorsed Langefeld’s entry Wednesday.

WHAT’S NEXT: The parade is March 24.

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...An Immigration Forum?

THE LATEST: Authorities focus on border security and going after organizations that smuggle people and drugs into the country, rather than perform “sweeps” for day laborers, gardeners, housekeepers and others in the United

WHAT’S NEXT: Orange County Sheriff Sandra Hutchens said her department still screens those in Orange County Jail to determine their immigration status.

Those determined to be in the country illegally are held for immigration officers.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.dhs.gov.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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States illegally, immigration officials said Wednesday.

Addressing about 60 people who attended a city-organized forum on immigration, officials from the Border Patrol, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department said they target dangerous immigrants because of budget constraints.

“If I have a choice between going after a gang member and someone here feeding their family, I pick gang members,” said Timothy Robbins, the Los Angeles field office director for ICE. Some residents expressed frustration with issues they attributed to illegal immigrants in San Juan Capistrano – from gang issues to unlicensed drivers – but Paul Beeson, the Border Patrol Chief Patrol Agent in the San Diego Sector, said he has never seen any evidence Capistrano is lenient toward illegal immigrants or has taken any steps to create a “sanctuary city,” as some allege.

...Signs for Auto Dealers?

THE LATEST: Capistrano’s auto dealers are important, but they’re not vital to the public health, safety and welfare, the City Council decided Tuesday.

City Councilwoman Laura Freese had proposed an urgency ordinance extending the time car dealers can keep up signs and banners to 180 days. The

Page 3

council passed a similar urgency measure earlier in the recession, but it expired.

But for the ordinance to be considered under “urgency” rules, the council would have needed to make a finding that it was necessary for “the immediate protection of the public health, welfare and general safety” of residents.

Council members balked at that.

WHAT’S NEXT: The council will consider the proposal as a normal ordinance, which requires a second reading, then takes effect 30 days after final approval.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

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... Moving a Post Office?

THE LATEST: The U.S. Post Office on Del Prado in Dana Point might be re-located to South Coast Water District land off Stonehill Drive, under a proposal by a Texas-based developer.

South Coast Water District directors were mulling a proposal to move the Post Office onto five of the 30 acres the district owns between Coast Highway and Stonehill Drive, just west of Camino Capistrano.

Majestic Housing & Development owns land adjacent to the postal facility on Del Prado and is in negotiations with the US Post Office to buy the land, according to a SCWD staff report. For that deal to move forward, MHD must find property in Dana Point for a new Post Office and distribution facility, the staff report says.

WHAT’S NEXT: South Coast was scheduled to decide whether to approve the negotations at its meeting Thursday evening.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —Jonathan Volzke www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Rock Solid

Olsen Pavingstone Celebrates 40 Years of Business

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

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ore than four decades ago, Ole Hjorth-Olsen and his wife, Anni, bought their first home, in Denmark. Their excitement was tempered, however, by frustration when they learned they’d have to wait more than six weeks for pavers for their driveway and patio.

An auto mechanic, Olsen figured he’d just make the pavers himself. Soon, he was making them for others too, working the business as a second job in the evenings and on weekends. The business was officially born in 1971, and eventually made its way to Rancho Mission Viejo property in 1986.

“My dad always believed in the American dream,” said his daughter, Pernille Olsen, who now runs the business after starting at the customer front counter in 2002. “The company that makes the machines we use suggested he go to California … he sold the business in the Denmark when it was at its peak and moved everything out here.”

The Olsens looked at several sites before settling on Rancho Mission Viejo land off Ortega Highway in 1986. Pernille Olsen bought her home in Meredith Can-

yon, while her parents lived at the plant for years before moving to Dana Point.

The plant and sales area occupy more than five acres on the Ranch land, across the small paved road from the headquarters of trash hauler CR&R. Piles of sand and raw material fill the site, sharing space with pallet after pallet of interlocking pavers of every size, shape and color.

The pavers are made on sheets 2 feet by 4 feet. Cement is poured into what Pernille Olsen calls a “giant cookie-cutter,” then allowed to set. It’s compacted and more concrete is added to ensure the sheet is level. In the 1970s, Ole Olsen, working by hand, could make enough pavers to cover a 4-foot by 6-foot section in one “fantastic” day of production.

Today, the plant can churn out enough pavers to cover 15 average-size driveways.

The pavers are sold at the Ortega Highway property or at retail outlets such as Supply Line and Sepulveda Building Materials. In addition to small jobs like residential driveways, Olsen Pavingstones are used in everything from commercial to municipal developments, too.

Intersections in San Clemente’s Talega are paved with Olsen products, and more than 300,000 square feet was used in a community in Palm Desert, Pernille Olsen said.

Like other construction-related companies, Olsen Pavingstone felt the economic slowdown. The company, however, had quickly shifted gears to commercial business to stay ahead of the slumping housing industry and didn’t feel the slowdown too deeply until 2009, Pernille Olsen said.

“Since then, it has been tough,” she said. “Let’s face it, a new driveway or pool deck aren’t necessarily a ‘need’ when people are losing their homes.”

But Olsen said business has been picking up, as those on solid financial footing take advantage of lower labor rates to upgrade their homes. Pernille Olsen also rolled out a new marketing strategy, in Olsen Pavingstone’s “Infinity Cobblestone” line.

The Infinity line essentially takes customers step-by-step through the selection of pavers—from the layout pattern to the stone type, to the color and even whether it should be tumbled.

“That’s really, really helped,” she said. “It just simplified everything for the sales reps and the customers.”

As it is now, Pernille Olsen said the company is working with architects as construction begins to move forward, slowly, again.

Aside from the economy, Olsen Pavingstone has to keep an eye on their future, too. One of dozens of businesses that leases Rancho Mission Viejo land, the company knows it will someday have to re-locate as the Ranch plan for 14,000 homes moves forward.

Pernille Olsen said she’s not worried.

“When we were looking at this property in 1983 and 1984, they asked us if we were going to reconsider because the toll road was going to be right over there,” she said, pointing across the road. “The Ranch has been amazing. I’m confident they’ll give us enough notice to relocate, but it probably won’t be in Orange County, because nobody wants to be our neighbor.

That might even mean a move out of state for the manufacturing of the pavers.

Whatever happens, Pernille Olsen said she’s confident she and the company can handle it.

“I’m second-generation now, and I know I have really big shoes to fill,” she said. “We’re not the biggest company, but we have a history and a reputation and a name to back us up.” CD

MORE TIME NOT IN THE CARDS FOR MELANIE’S HALLMARK

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

arilyn Watson was working for McDonnell Douglas when she spotted a broker’s sign about a business for sale. On a whim, she dialed the number. No space was available in the center she asked about, the broker told her, but then he asked whether she lived close to San Juan Capistrano.

Watson, a Mission Viejo resident, opened Melanie’s Hallmark—named after her daughter—in the then-new Vons Center not long after that call. That was 30 years ago.

Now, after three decades of charting the lives of San Juan Capistrano residents through the birthday, wedding and sympathy cards they’ve purchased, a yellow “Going Out of Business” banner is flying above Melanie’s Hallmark.

“My lease was up,” Watson said Thursday, adding she didn’t want to say anything that could be construed as negative about her landlord or Hallmark, which was involved in the negotiations. “I tried to sell the business, but in this economy you just can’t

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The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 8, 2012

get anything done.”

Business, she said, had been steady through the years, even as she watched a bank in the plaza close and the bakery that was once next store leave, too. Melanie’s Hallmark and Vons are the only remaining original retail tenants in the plaza.

Her lease runs through the end of March. She’ll keep the store open until everything is sold.

“You can’t leave us,” a passerby told her Thursday as she spoke to a reporter. “You can’t go.”

Watson smiled her thanks.

“San Juan Capistrano has to be the best place in the world,” Watson said.

“The response has been overwhelming…this has been like a family business. I feel blessed, I really do.”

Watson said she’s not sure what she’ll do next. “I’m not the sort to sit around,” she said. But customers shouldn’t wait for any last special gathering to say their goodbyes.

“I’ve had a lot of people coming in since the sign went up,” Watson said.

“I think I’ve already had my party.”

Mixed emotions as a store closes

Melanie’s Hallmark is closing after 30 years in business. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

after three decades. Thanks to a supportive community. An uncertain future.

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Is there a card for that?

“Not that I know of,” Watson said. “But maybe there should be.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Swallows Expert Returns to Mission for St. Joseph’s Day The Capistrano Dispatch

ission San Juan Capistrano once again will draw attention from the four corners of the earth when it hosts St. Joseph’s Day and the Return of the Swallows celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, March 19.

Among the day’s highlights are the Ringing of the Historic Bells in honor of St. Joseph’s Day and the Swallows Return at 10 a.m. and again at noon. The official bell ringing ceremony will take place at 11:55 a.m. There also will be live mariachi music, community presentations, Mission Parish School performances, San Juan Elementary performances and the history of St. Joseph’s Day and swallows legend.

Another highlight of the day will be the return of cliff swallows expert, Dr. Charles R. Brown, who will give a lecture on the swallows in the Soldiers Barracks Gallery from 2-3 p.m.

Cost for general admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors (60+) and $5 for children (ages 4-11). Admission is free for Mission Preservation Society Members, active volunteers with identification, and children ages 3 and under.

The swallows are said to migrate annually to Goya, Argentina, in October, and return to their spring and summer home in San Juan Capistrano each March. The Swallows celebration began centuries ago when Mission padres observed that the birds’ return roughly coincided with St. Joseph’s Day on the church calendar, March 19. The celebration has achieved international prominence since then.

In his book, Capistrano Nights, Father St. John O’Sullivan, Pastor of Mission San Juan Capistrano from 1910-33, related how the swallows first came to call the Mission home. One day, while walking through town, Father O’Sullivan saw

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The Mission Parish Swallows always return to the Mission. Courtesy photo

a shopkeeper, broomstick in hand, knocking down the conically shaped mud swallow nests that were under the eaves of his shop. The birds were darting back and forth through the air squealing over the destruction of their homes.

“What in the world are you doing?”

Father O’Sullivan asked.

“Why, these dirty birds are a nuisance and I am getting rid of them!” the shopkeeper responded.

“But where can they go?” Father Sullivan responded.

“I don’t know and I don’t care,” the shopkeeper replied, slashing away with his pole. “But they’ve no business here, destroying my property.”

Father O’Sullivan then said, “Come on swallows, I’ll give you shelter. Come to the Mission. There’s room enough there for all.”

The very next morning, the padre discovered the swallows busy building

their nests outside the newly restored sacristy of Father Serra’s Church. Another favorite spot was the ruins of the Great Stone Church, which was once lined with hundreds of swallows’ nests.

General admission tickets are available now at the Gate House. Tickets may also be purchased on event day. Reserved seating is not offered for this event, but it is recommended that visitors make an RSVP separately for Dr. Brown’s lecture by phone at 949.234.1321. CD

Pet Parade Set for Sunday

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he annual Fiesta Association Kids Pet Parade on Sunday, February 26 at Cook/La Novia Park.

Children 12 and under can bring their pets in costume for contests including Cutest, Most Original, Best Team Costume (owner and pet), Funniest and Most Obedient. The top award, the “judges choice” winner, will be featured in the 54th Swallows Day Parade on Saturday, March 24.

Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. and the judging and pet parade starts at 1:00 p.m. Each contest has a $3 entry fee and all pets must be leashed, haltered or caged during the entire event.

Fiesta de las Golondrinas, meaning Festival of the Swallows, activities pay tribute to the annual return of the swallows and San Juan Capistrano’s Spanish and western heritage. The 2012 Swallows Day Parade is themed “How the West was Fun.” For more information about the Kids Pet Parade or other Fiesta de las Golondrinas events, call 949.493.1976 or visit www.swallowsparade.org. CD

The annual ringing of the bells. Courtesy photo

The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 8, 2012

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www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY JONATHAN VOLZKE 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.

Wednesday, February 15 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Trabuco Creek Road/Rancho Viejo (11:05 p.m.) A witness reported seeing a white Mercedes hit a couple of cars before getting stuck in the mud. A 31-year-old woman was taken into custody.

GENERAL BROADCAST Del Obispo Street/Ortega Highway (9:57 p.m.) A man took several tries to get through the drive-though at McDonalds, then stopped in the parking lot to dump some trash. The caller thought he was drunk.

Wednesday, February 15 DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 31600 Block (8:26 p.m.)

A man was pushing people inside a church chapel.

BURGLARY REPORT San Juan Creek Road, 32100 Block (7:33 p.m.) Some parked cars were broken into.

CITIZEN ASSIST Junipero Serra Road, 26500 Block (7:20 p.m.) A man reported he took a taxi from the airport. The driver stopped at a Capistrano service station for gasoline, so the man used the restroom. When he came out, the taxi—and his belongings—were gone. Deputies got a call later saying the taxi was returning.

CITIZEN ASSIST Calle Aviador, 32900 Block (6:42 p.m.) A woman was locked in a self-storage yard.

She said she was “freaking out.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Paseo del Lucero, 32900 Block (6:22 p.m.)

A man was lurking near vehicles, and a caller thought he might be trying to break into vehicles. She called back to report he was scooping mud out of a gutter and putting it on a white car.

MEDICAL AID Paseo Carolina, 32000 Block (2:20 p.m.)

A woman reported her 16-year-old son said he was going to try and kill himself.

He barricaded himself in the bathroom.

Saturday, February 11 TRAFFIC HAZARD Camino Capistrano/Ortega Highway (6:16 a.m.) A lamp post fell over, exposing electrical wires.

Friday, February 10

TERRORIST THREATS Millpond Court, 29700 Block (11:29 p.m.)

A woman reports her cousin stopped by the house and threatened to come back and shoot up the place.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Avenida Evita, 31800 Block (11:24 p.m.)

A woman reported seeing the mini-blinds bent down in a room, as if someone was trying to get in. She looked herself in her room.

DISTURBANCE Via Santo Tomas/Via El Rosario (10:20 p.m.) A caller reported a party, adding that people were fighting and breaking beer bottles.

The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 8, 2012

TRAFFIC HAZARD Via Buena/Avenida Larga (11:33 a.m.)

A resident called because neighbors had put cones in the street again.

VANDALISM REPORT Windjammer Drive, 25700 Block (10:52 a.m.) A resident complained about vandalism to trees.

Wednesday, February 8

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Driftwood Court/Mariner Drive (7:38 a.m.) A woman reported she was bitten by a dog.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON La Zanja Street, 26500 Block (9:55 p.m.)

A woman reported her ex-boyfriend took her 3-year-old daughter.

Thursday, February 9

DISTURBANCE Edgewood Road, 29300 Block (9:17 p.m.)

A woman reported her 18-year-old daughter wanted to go home with her boyfriend and her mother did not want her to go.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Camino Capistrano/Del Obispo (11:37 p.m.) A caller reported a man was unconscious in a older Suburban, with the engine running. He didn’t respond when the caller knocked on the window.

ANNOYING PHONE CALL Paseo Blanco, 33100 Block (7:21 p.m.)

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Shamrock Lane, 33700 Block (11:27 p.m.)

A woman reported “booms” next to her house, but said it wasn’t the Camp Pendleton training. She could hear someone hitting the side of her house, she said.

ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON Via Pasito, 28400 Block (9:14 p.m.)

A man reported a teen tried to run him and his wife over.

MADD Recognizes Two Capistrano Deputies for Snaring DUI Drivers

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

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others Against Drunk Driving on Tuesday honored two San Juan Capistrano deputies for their work in getting drunk drivers off the streets.

MADD awards its “Deuce Award” to officers who make at least 25 driving-under-the-influence arrests in a year. Deputy Kasey Marshall had 37 DUI arrests, while Deputy Bill Simandl had 38.

The awards were given at Tuesday’s City Council meeting by MADD volunteer Chris Meyers. She ex-

The Capistrano Dispatch

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ILLEGALLY PARKED VEHICLES La Matanza, 31300 Block (4:22 p.m.)Several vehicles were blocking a fire hydrant.

CITIZEN ASSIST Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (8:14 a.m.)

A woman reported she left her husband the night before and stayed with her parents for the night. She’d returned to the house, though, and her husband and daughter were not there, and he wasn’t answering the phone.

Elks Honor William Simandl as Deputy of the Year illiam Simandl was recognized as San Juan Capistrano Deputy of the Year at the Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge No. 2444 South Orange County Law Enforcement and Firefighter Appreciation Awards Dinner.

Orange County Fire Authority Battalion 6, which covers San Juan Capistrano, recognized Captain Tim Perkins and the California Highway Patrol recognized Officer of the Year

A resident reported a collection agency called more than 15 times in a day. He suspected it was a fraud, but the callers threatened her with arrest.

Exalted Ruler Gloria LeCouvre, San Juan Capistrano Deputy of Year William Simandl, Lt. John Meyer. Courtesy photo

Ken Rethwisch.

The Awards Dinner was attended by more than 160 firefighters, law enforcement personnel and family members of the personnel being recognized for their work over the past year. The dinner was funded by the Lodge’s charity bingo operation. CD Page 8

plained she became involved in the group because her sister, then 5, had been killed by a drunk driver in 1959.

Back then, the driver wasn’t even charged with a crime.

In 1990, her brother was hit headon by another drunken driver. He survived, but the wreck changed him and contributed to a divorce, Meyers said.

Then in 2009, her own son was arrested for driving under the influence, she said. She turned to her church to help her son, who today is “doing quite well.” Finally, in 2010, her friends were struck in Buena Park by a DUI driver. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

Jonathan Volzke, 949.388.7700, x108 jvolzke@thecapistranodispatch.com ADVERTISING

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.thecapistranodispatch.com The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 10, Issue 4. 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 2012. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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EDITORIAL Group Editor, Editor, The Dispatch > Jonathan Volzke City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne City Editor, SC Times > Stacie N. Galang ART/DESIGN

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Sales Associates > Angela Edwards

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, David Zimmerle

MARK NIELSEN: Straight Talk

LAURA FREESE: My View

Some of the Positives D

Plan Protects Our History A

espite those who look for the negatives about our town, there has recently been some very positive news from independent third parties. The OC Register reported the OC MARK NIELSEN Housing News listed SJC as one of only OC cities in to show an increase in housing prices from December, 2010 to December, 2011. In fact, San Juan Capistrano beat out Newport Coast to claim the title of Best Performing Market, with housing prices here up 4.7 percent year over year.

The weakest markets were places such as Laguna Niguel and Aliso Viejo with pricing drops of 12.2 percent and 9.2 percent respectively. This belies the criticism that some have leveled at our city by wrongly claiming the city is in decline and businesses and individuals will avoid moving here. The opposite is true.

These past weeks saw the much anticipated ribbon-cutting of a new hotel in town, the Marriott Residence Inn, which is anticipated to bring upward of $350,000 a year to the city. Obviously, the owners see Capistrano as a great investment.

Costco invested millions in expanding the store and adding a gas station. Not only can some of us finally find reasonably priced gas in town (if current prices anywhere are reasonable), but the expansion will increase significantly the annual sales tax revenue and is a testament to Costco’s long-term commitment in our city.

Our city continues to attract investment as other businesses expand. Tuttle/Click Ford is renovating the dealership, the owner of the Pedro’s Taco land is before the Design Review Committee with a new restaurant (Mission Grill), and San Juan Hills Golf Course continues to expand and

The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 8, 2012

upgrade. Though I did not agree with the driving range lighting decision, I still support the golf course’s continued investment in our community.

Even the much-maligned Utility department and Ground Water Recovery Plant had positive comments from the auditor. The auditors stated the GWRP “will likely prove to be a positive investment over the long term from both a reliability of service standpoint and a cost of operation...” They also state “Bond proceeds were used for their intended purposes” and “the technique used to finance the GWRP was not unusual, nor was its ownership and control through lease arrangements with the San Juan Basin Authority.” However, they did find that the water district “had an inadequate rate structure dating back to at least 1997...” and “the utility failed to adjust rates in a timely manner.” In fact, the prior Capistrano Valley Water District into which the city merged in 2003 “was losing money during the last 6 years of operation,” and the auditor was critical of the city for not raising rates earlier.

While there are always areas that need improvement, our city is in better shape than many others, even those around us. Though the economy has hurt many businesses across the nation, we continue to have new businesses come to town, others expanding their commitment, and home prices showing greater strength this past year than others around us. Sometimes the glass really is half full!

Mark Nielsen is a local business executive who was Mayor in 2009 during his four years on the City Council. He is a director of the SJC Open Space Foundation and has lived in San Juan Capistrano for over 20 years. CD

n open letter in response to Ivy Sims Damon: Thank you for writing your letter in the February 9th issue of The Capistrano Dispatch.

Please allow me to clear LAURA FREESE up some misinformation about the Downtown Master Plan.

In the past, San Juan Capistrano has lost some beautiful historic buildings due to a lack of a plan. Because the I-5/ Ortega interchange construction will begin later this year, it became imperative that a plan be put into place to protect the character of our city, to keep destructive influences at bay and to use the I-5 interchange construction as a catalyst to enhance the charm of our city.

The Downtown Master Plan is a protective plan. It will protect what we have while mandating incoming new buildings fit the historical look and feel of the city.

The Downtown Plan does not pull down buildings. The plan does not use eminent domain. It does suggest best uses of locations for future buildings and the best way to make the downtown more pedestrian friendly.

Protectively, the plan suggests that the city recapture appropriate assets of the past that have gone away but may be brought back. The plan suggests we transform Camino Capistrano back into the role/look of our main street. It was integrated into Highway 101 by the state in the 1930s, which is when it lost a lot of its simple “Main Street” appeal. The Master Plan suggests ways to restore the look and livability of Camino Capistrano as our main street. Also, the hotel that you refer to in your letter, the Hotel Capistrano, was sadly torn down at Camino Capistrano and Verdugo many years

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ago. The plan states that Verdugo and Camino Capistrano was the perfect spot for a small hotel and if the chance ever comes again, that a boutique hotel be rebuilt in that location. It is a suggestion only, but a good one.

The master plan is a guide. It refines the City’s General Plan’s intent. It addresses downtown floor ratio standards that are too low and parking ratios which are too high. It hones in on the need of the city to give pedestrians a reason to walk around the city; to provide the walkers a “string of pearls” of interesting things to do and see. It addresses the need for Verdugo Street and El Camino to come to life.

The goals stated in the plan include words like “preserve and enhance,” “pedestrian friendly,” and “honor the historic buildings.” The council will judge if those goals were met. We will evaluate the good parts and throw out the bad. Input from residents has been extremely important. We had multiple meetings with downtown property owners; four widely advertised public workshops and currently, Councilman John Taylor and I have met with three more different groups to listen to their concerned input. Many of their concerns are the same as ours.

There are a lot of rumors about the plan and they are just that: rumors.

Please know that Councilman Taylor or I will meet with anyone who has concerns. Call Cathy Salcedo at 949.449.6317 if you would like to meet.

It is better to understand the plan and provide valuable comments than to allow misinformation to gather fuel and fly wildly about.

Councilwoman Laura Freese, a past director of the Chamber of Commerce, was elected in 2008. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Download the Festival of Whales iPhone app on iTunes

Young at Art

Welcome to Dana Point

Festival of Whales infused with fresh artistic talent of Dana Hills High School students

BY LA R A A NDE R SON, M AYOR OF DA NA PO I NT

W

elcome to Dana Point and our 41st annual Festival of Whales. Whether this is your first visit or you are a resident of our beautiful seaside community, this year’s Festival and the whales it celebrates are sure to delight.

We’ve already seen spectacular pods of Orcas, Humpback whales and literally tons of Gray whales. What will you see on a whale watching excursion?

On land, we have a fun-filled lineup of family-friendly events starting with our hometown parade on Saturday, March 3. Retired pro football player Jim Everett will be the 2012 Celebrity Grand Marshal and Dana Point’s own Lindsay Steinriede, 2011 Woman’s World Champion Long Board Champion, will be the Community Grand Marshal. The parade starts 10 a.m. on Pacific Coast Highway at Selva Road and travels down PCH terminating at the Whale of a Block Party in La Plaza Park.

The Dana Point Historical Society is continuing their tradition of a live reading of our namesake Richard Henry Dana’s book, Two Years Before the Mast. Over 100 volunteer readers will take turns to complete a public reading of the entire book in approximately 15 hours over three days.

Stop by the Nature Interpretive Center on Scenic Drive above the Harbor and have a listen, March 2, 3 and 4.

The Harbor is filled with art and music

during the entire Festival of Whales. Along the boardwalk, the Dana Point Fine Art Association will be hosting a show and sale. There will also be Art in the Park at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Island Way, movies, the Harbor Music Series, worldclass jazz, a concert at Baby Beach and much more.

How about some food? There are delicious pancake breakfasts on March 4 and 11 hosted by our local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary and Doheny Longboard Surfing Association.

They’re great breakfasts for a great cause.

Enjoy BBQ at Baby Beach. New this year is the first ever Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook Off featuring teams from some of the best local restaurants and the City of Dana Point. Proceeds from the Cook Off benefit a fantastic organization called Fish for Life that enhances the lives of those with special needs.

Dana Point is an active community and the Festival of Whales reflects our commitment to health and fitness with numerous activities like tidepool hikes, walking tours, stand-up paddling clinics, a Dana Outrigger Canoe Club race, the Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup and the Festival of Whales Grunion Run, March 11.

All these events and lots more are on the Festival of Whales program. There’s so much to do and see; plan to spend the weekend, or two, in Dana Point. And, like the whales do each year, I hope you’ll come back too. DP

Join the Migration for Less with Metrolink and OCTA

BY A N D R EA SWAYNE

J

oin the migration at the Dana Point Festival of Whales and let OCTA and Metrolink get you there for less. Buy a weekend pass—valid for system-wide travel from 7 p.m. Friday through midnight on Sunday—for just $10. Weekend passes are available at any Metrolink station ticket vending machine.

To get to the Festival of Whales from the San Juan Capistrano Metrolink station, take OCTA Bus Route 91 South to Dana Point.

Bicycle riders—look for one of Metrolink’s special bicycle cars marked with large yellow “Bicycle Car” signs and take your bike onboard. Ride Metrolink to the San Juan Capistrano station and then hop on your bike and ride the bikeway to Dana Point and the Festival.

Full train and bus schedules can be found at www.octa.net/whalesfestival2012.aspx.

Using public transportation to and from the Festival is not only an environmentally friendly way to attend, a ride aboard a bus or train can add to the adventure and get you

great discounts at area businesses. Below are a few of the special deals riders can enjoy.

• Present Metrolink, OCTA bus pass or 91 Express Lanes transponder and save 50 percent off Dana Wharf and Ocean Institute whale watching excursion ticket prices.

Advanced reservations required. Call Dana Wharf at 949.496.5794 ext. 7 and Ocean Institute, 949.496.2274 ext. 0 for reservations.

• Present Metrolink, OCTA bus pass or 91 Express Lanes transponder and receive a special room rate of $69, single or double occupancy, at the Dana Point Marina Inn, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.1203, www.danapointmarinainn.com. DP

BY A N DREA SWAY N E

Sarah Stanley

Lauren Black

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hen the artwork of 2011 Dana Hills High School grad Carver Moore— now studying film editing at the Academy of Art in San Francisco—was chosen as the official logo for the Dana Point Festival of Whales; he was one of the few people surprised by it.

Festival coordinator Penny Elia approached Moore’s digital photography teacher Natalie Hribar-Kelly near the end of last school year with an idea to engage the talented art students from Dana Hills High School as contributors to the annual event.

Elia, Hribar-Kelly and her fellow art instructors were impressed—but not surprised—by the abundance of creativity and technical ability displayed by all who submitted logo designs. And they were delighted that Moore’s standout work will represent this year’s Festival of Whales.

Moore said he was surprised and excited to be recognized in this way. And the fact that his design represents a local event that was a big part of his life growing up in Dana Point was a bonus.

“I feel honored but a bit strange too, because this is the first time my work will be widely viewed by the public,” said Moore.

The top five submitted works were

Dana Hills High School class of 2011 graduate Carver Moore stands by the Festival of Whales logo he designed. Photo by Andrea Swayne

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Frankie Michinock

Renee Richardson

rounded out by entries from Sarah Stanley, Lauren Black, Frankie Michinock and Renee Richardson.

Inspired by the designs, student involvement quickly grew to include an opportunity for students to show their work at Art in the Park—the exhibition of work by local artists now in its third successful year at the Festival of Whales.

To prepare, a group of 90 students from all high school visual art departments was invited on a January field trip, whale watching aboard a Dana Wharf boat, interaction with professional guest artists and a tour of the Ocean Institute and its historic tallship Brig Pilgrim.

Moore even took a break from his college studies and returned to Dana Point to attend—the same day when posters, signs and banners with his logo had their debut around town.

The trip was designed to serve as inspiration and motivation, not only for next year’s logo competition, but also to spark the creativity of the students creating works for display at the Art in the Park.

“It was a perfect opportunity for our students to venture out and get inspired to create work for the show,” said Hribar-Kelly.

“The kids are very excited about submitting designs for the 2013 festival logo and are already working on ideas. I think it’s huge for art students to gain inspiration in the field, and exposure to professional artists is very important to their education.”

Art in the Park founder, art consultant Jackie Gallagher agreed and predicted that the student art show will grow organically, just as the original show has over the years.

“This is a great way to expose kids to the possibilities of a professional art career,” said Gallagher. “We started out three years ago with 15 artists and hope to have 70 this year, plus a large group of students.”

Other plans to expand student involvement by including kids studying areas beyond the visual arts—music, theater, etc.—are already in the works.

“What better way to get the community involved in the festival than to include our youth,” Elia said. DP

Whales in the Wilderness

BY DOU G THOM P SON

S

tanding on the beach gazing out to sea, you are overlooking a true wilderness—not with massive migrations of zebras and wildebeests across vast African savannahs, but instead with impressive numbers of giant animals cloaked by the ocean’s watery wilderness. One of these regular travelers, right in front of us off our local coastline, completes the longest migration of any mammal on Earth—the roughly 10,000-mile round-trip journey of the California Gray whales.

Each fall between September and October, Gray whales begin their long journey south from their traditional feeding grounds in the Arctic to the lagoons of Baja, where most were born. Their migration is triggered by the shortening days heading into winter when the ice forms and affects their food sources. They travel four to five thousand miles one way, depending on how far north they started.

Gray whales travel about as fast as we walk, completing about 100 miles in 24 hours.

Whales are marine mammals and breathe air. They must think about each breath and are not automatic breathers like us. They cannot completely fall asleep at any time or they would drown. They usually surface three to five times in a row, exhaling and taking in large amounts of air to re-oxygenate their blood; then while holding their breath, swim underwater for four to six minutes just below the surface, then repeat the process. They can stay underwater up to 20 minutes before surfacing.

Two blowholes (their nostrils) are connected directly to the lungs, so even a mouth full of water and food will not interfere with breathing. The blowholes are located on top of the head, making it easy to just slightly break the surface of the water to take in air. Gray whales’ eyes (about the size of softballs) are located on each side of their head, about seven or eight feet back from the tip of the jaw. They lack forward stereoscopic vision that we humans have and must move their entire body to see an object in front of them. They do have limited stereoscopic vision downward to aid in finding food on the seabed floor, where they filter small animals from the mud.

Gray whales reach a length of 50 feet and weigh a little less than a ton a foot (in our world of gravity). All whales are weightless in water, so slowly pulsing their large flukes (tail) moves them forward efficiently.

Baleen or filter-feeding whales, such as Gray whales, store blubber as a food source to allow them to make these long distance migrations away from their feeding grounds. They feed all summer in the foodrich northern seas, gaining literally tons of weight in blubber. Then in the fall, they head south and do not need to eat again for many months, using stored blubber as their food source.

A pregnant female Gray whale may leave the northern latitudes weighting 90,000 pounds. She will travel many weeks to Baja where she will have a 12- to 15-foot baby that can weight up to 2,000 pounds at birth. The mother whale will gently support her almost helpless baby to take

This Gray whale is taking a look around doing what is called “spy hopping.” Photo by Doug Thompson

the first few breaths of air at the surface.

Within a few hours, the baby will gain some coordination and be able to slowly swim alongside mom. The baby feeds—on rich, nourishing milk that is roughly 50 percent fat—from recessed nipples on either side of the mother’s genital slit. When the baby touches a nipple and makes a seal, the mother contracts the massive muscles around the nipple and shoots the thick milk down the baby’s throat. The baby will drink about 50 gallons a day and may grow to 70 percent of its adult length in the first year of life. Months later, when mom and her young whale return to the northern feeding areas, mom will have lost many tons of weight.

Gray whales are considered a coastal whale, meaning they normally stay within a few miles of shore, making them easy to observe during migration. Jump on a whale watching boat and become part of their mysterious journey.

Doug Thompson is a noted marine naturalist with over 30 years of studying Gray whales in the lagoons of Baja. He is the author of Whales, Touching the Mystery and is Director of Expeditions for The SummerTree Institute, a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation which conducts ongoing natural history experiences, lectures and wildlife and marine expeditions worldwide. He will be speaking March 4 at 10 a.m. at Harpoon Henry’s and can be reached at doug@summertree.org.

DP

Historic Festival of Whales Forty-one and Counting

BY CARLOS N. O LVERA, PRESI D ENT DANA PO I NT HI STO R ICA L SO CI ETY

T

he Festival of Whales is here once again.

This year—year 41 and counting—we celebrate for the first time without Festival of Whales founder, author and Dana Point historian Doris I. Walker. Doris passed away in October but her memories and historical accounts of festivals past live on in her renowned book Dana Point: Home Port for Romance.

One such memory recorded in the book is that of the full size whale characters—Sandy, Flo, Pheena and Herb—she brought to the corner of Dana Point Harbor Drive and Island Way years ago. Only Herb remains today, a live growing whale topiary, but Doris’ mark lives on in many festival traditions Dana Point has treasured for over four decades.

Back in July of 1971 the Dana Point Harbor opened its doors (docks) to the public.

One of the first businesses to open at the wharf, and the only East Basin one that was fully constructed, was Don Hansen’s Dana Wharf Sportfishing. He moved his sportfishing operation from San Clemente and brought with him the need to share the experience of the sea with children. That was when Doris first got involved, quickly became responsible for the harbor’s public relations and created the first Festival of Whales Parade. The inaugural year was a small celebration consisting of a short walking parade of children between the only two harbor businesses at the time, Dana Wharf and the Wind & Sea. When Dana Point became a city in 1989, the first mayor, Judy Curreri, asked yours truly to organize the first parade under

city sponsorship. The route—eastward down Santa Clara, crossing Pacific Coast Highway at Violet Lantern—was chosen because we couldn’t get a permit to use PCH; or even to cross it. So we had a person hit the crosswalk signal and quickly moved parade entrants across to La Plaza where it ended at the Street Faire (today’s Block Party).

After about 10 years, City Council chose not to sponsor the parade and local organizers continued the tradition with a parade on Golden Lantern. Two years later it returned to PCH; this time with Grand Marshals Doris I. Walker, Don Hansen and I in the lead—just to name just a few.

In those early years Doris once brought Donald Duck from Disneyland to serve as Grand Marshal, as he was the only waterrelated Disney character at the time.

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But over the years Doris and others made sure to never lose sight of the fact that the real stars of the show must always be the whales.

Each year many different events take place throughout Town Center and the Harbor to celebrate Dana Point’s place along the Gray whales’ 10,000-mile annual migration and the abundance of sightings whale watchers enjoy just off our coast. In years past we had scuba sky diving into the ocean, mariachi bands, Navy parachute demonstrations and a Navy Special Boat Squadron. New this year we have a chowder cook off, professional sand sculptors and more.

Although Dana Point celebrates this year’s Festival without our beloved Doris, her mark remains in both the traditions and spirit of the event. Check it out and you too can be a part of the history of Dana Point. DP

Whale Watching

Sponsor Spotlight San Diego Gas & Electric has been a proud sponsor of the Festival of Whales for over a decade.

Their generous donations have made possible the expansion of many events and have been central to making the Festival what it is today.

Be sure to stop by the SDG&E booth at Ocean Awareness Day, Sunday, March 4, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Baby Beach grassy area. DP

Adventures Dana Wharf Whale Watching

The originator of Whale Watching in Orange County invites you to celebrate over 40 years of exceptional whale watching.

Excursions offer fun for all ages. Sightings of whales or dolphins are guaranteed or come back again and ride free. Boats depart every hour from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on festival weekends. Back by popular demand—the Whale of a Deal—all 8 a.m. tickets are just $10. For other departure times, adults are $32, senior and military $27, children 3-12 years $19 and children 2 and under are free.

Two-hour whale watching excursions following their Marine Mammal Lecture both weekends at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. are also available. Trips are narrated aboard the 63-foot, state-of-the-art OCean Adventures catamaran. Prior to the 11:30 a.m. departure, a special lecture session from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s included with all 11:30 a.m. reservations. Tickets are $42 for adults, $29 for children 3-12 and free for children under 2. Purchase tickets online at www.zerve. com/DanaWharf/OceanAdv. Use Promo Code (FOW12) to save $5 per ticket (not valid on 8 a.m. special). For more information call 800.979.3370 or 800.590.9994 or visit www.danawharf.com.

Ocean Institute Marine Mammal Cruises

More than just a whale watch, Ocean Institute cruises aboard the R/V Sea Explorer introduce participants to whales and other marine animals using state-of-the-art equipment including satellites, plankton nets, sediment samplers and video microscopes.

Experience these magnificent animals and learn about feeding strategies, migration and behavior patterns. Cruise times are 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Festival weekends. Member pricing is $22 for adults and $19 for children 4 to 12. Non-member pricing is $35 adults, $22 children. Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the cruise ticket purchase.

For more information, call 949.496.2274 or log on to www.ocean-institute.org.

Capt. Dave’s Whale & Dolphin Safari

Get eye-to-eye with wild dolphins and whales—without getting wet—in two exclusive underwater viewing pods on board a high-speed, high-tech, sailing catamaran.

One of the most unique dolphin and whale watching experiences in the world, the boat carries only 49 so excursions are never crowded and get passengers up close to wild marine mammals. See and hear below the surface with an underwater camera and hydrophone while an experienced marine naturalist narrates how the animals live. Trips are often narrated by Capt. Dave Anderson, himself, whose award-winning film on wild

Chowder Cook Off

Photo by Andrea Swayne

dolphins and whales has drawn people from all over the world to Dana Point. The front of the boat is low to the water to get you close to the animals and an onboard micro whale and dolphin museum is fun and educational. Trips are broadcast live on www.WhaleWatchingTV.com so passengers can actually wave hello to family and friends while out on the water with the whales and dolphins. And one of the best features—Mrs. Captain Dave’s triple fudge brownies are served complimentary on every safari. Cost: $55 adults, $35 children 3-12 years old. Call 949.488.2828 or visit www.dolphinsafari.com for more information and reservations.

Dream Catcher Yacht Charters

Wouldn’t it be great to have your own custom version of a Jacques Cousteau adventure at sea? Board a luxury sailing or motor yacht skippered by an experienced Coast Guard-licensed captain for a threehour excursion for you and up to five shipmates. Prices start at just $55 per person.

Departure times are whenever you want to go—Dream Catcher works with your schedule. If you want to search for whales and dolphins and see the spectacular Southern California Riviera coastline in a more personal and intimate setting, then Dream Catcher Yacht Charters has your private yacht waiting at the dock. Passengers can learn something about sailing and boathandling, if interested, or just sit back, enjoy the voyage and scan the horizon for sea life. Shhh…hear that? The whales are gently calling your name. Dream Catcher Yachts is celebrating their 20th year in Dana Point Harbor. For more info or to book a trip, call

949.248.7100. Visit Dream Catcher online at www.dreamcatcheryachts.com.

Aventura Sailing Association

Enjoy a whale watching excursion powered by the wind aboard one of Aventura’s luxury 30-foot sailboats. Two and a half-hour trips run $35 per person, (must have at least six passengers); or enjoy a 30foot private boat for $210, (6 passengers maximum). Upgrades to larger vessels are available for an additional fee. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the serenity of being under full sail as you listen to the sounds of the sea and whales as they breach. Bring your camera and capture the whales as their tails fly high. For reservations and information call 949.493.9493 or log on to www.aventurasailing.com.

Headlands Park and Nature Interpretive Center Interested in catching a glimpse of migrating gray whales from land? Visit the Headlands Conservation Park and Nature Interpretive Center. Situated high atop the 200-foot cliffs of the headlands, the park trails and scenic overlooks offer a great vantage point for viewing the whales passing below. The three-mile trail system is open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset and Interpretive Center hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. From the Ocean Institute visitors can walk up Cove Road to the park. The Interpretive Center is located adjacent to the park, at the terminus of Green Lantern. It’s a steep walk, but the spectacular views are worth it. For more information, log on to www.danapoint.org and click on the “visitors” button then on “nature interpretive center.” DP

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Devin Hafey is delighted by the beautiful red sheephead she caught during a Fish for Life outing. This year’s Festival of Whales Clam Chowder Cook Off will raise funds to continue providing angling experiences for kids with special needs. Photo by Frank Armstrong

A

new addition to this year is the first ever Festival of Whale’s Clam Chowder Cook Off. A dozen of Dana Point’s finest eateries, along with a team from the city, will compete for bragging rights to the tastiest chowder in town on Saturday, March 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. along the harbor walkway near Island Way (E12 on the map).

Tickets are $5 for five tastes or $10 for 13 and all proceeds will benefit Fish for Life, an organization that provides fun, memorable and inspirational angling experiences to young people with special needs.

“Our mission is to enhance the lives of those with special needs by hosting complimentary half-day Dana Wharf Sportfishing trips aboard the Dana Pride,” said Jim Holden, Fish for Life founder. “This event will certainly help us to extend this often lifechanging experience to more kids.”

Participating teams include: The Harbor Grill, Brio Tuscany Grille, Cannons Seafood Grill, Carlos Mexican Restaurant, Chart House, City of Dana Point, Harpoon Henry’s, Mahé, The Rib Joint, RJ’s Café, Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, The Vue at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and Wind & Sea Restaurant.

Prizes will be awarded in three categories—Best Chowder, Best Booth Design and People’s Choice.

Learn more about Fish for Life at www.fishforlife.org. DP —AS

EVENT MAP

Event locations coordinate with listings on pages 10 & 12

Free Shuttle

Calendar of Events Saturday, March 3, 2012 E1 Festival of Whales Parade 10 a.m. The parade features floats, bands, balloons and more related to the Festival theme, Magical Migration. Parade route runs along Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern.

E2 Whale of a Block Party 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at La Plaza Park. Hosted by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, the Block Party is a fun and educational carnival-style event for the entire family.

Weekend 1

Drive. Over 100 volunteers read in 10-minute shifts beginning Friday, March 2 from 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

E15 Sand Sculpting Creation and Workshops 9 a.m.-Sunset. Archisand—professional sand sculptors and seven-time U.S. Open Sand Castle Competition champions—create a sculpture featuring whales and the 2012 Festival of Whales logo at Baby Beach. Sandcastle building workshops offered at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. At sunset watch as Archisand applies some cool LED colored lighting effects. See their work at www.socalsandcastles.com.

Event numbers correspond with the event map on pages 8 & 9 pancake breakfast, raffle prizes and entertainment, hosted by VFW post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary at the OC Sailing & Event Center’s Dana Cove Room. Adults $6, $3 for children under 12.

E6 Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Enjoy a tallship sailing adventure and gain new insights into man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and whales.

Non-member price $40 adults, $23 children 12 and under; members—$36 adults, $21 children 12 and under (min. age 4).

E3 Live Remote KSBR 88.5 Jazz FM 9 a.m.

Stop in and visit with the DJs and staff from Radio KSBR 88.5 in the Dana Wharf courtyard area.

E11 So Cal Woodies Woodie cars will be on display at the grassy areas along the harbor walkway.

E15 Dana Outrigger Canoe Club Race In its 22nd year of historical paddling, Dana Outrigger Canoe Club will once again host a competition at Baby Beach. Spectators welcome.

E15 Ocean Awareness Day 11 a.m.– 4 p.m. Interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing environmental programs and issues related to the ocean.

E11 So Cal Woodies Woodie cars from the Southern California Woodie Club will be on display at the grassy areas along the harbor walkway. Take a stroll and enjoy these iconic surf wagons from days past.

E11 Metropolitan Club Nash Metropolitan cars will be on display at the grassy areas along the harbor walkway.

E5 Historical Society Public Reading 9 a.m.6 p.m. The Dana Point Historical Society hosts its second public reading of Two Years Before the Mast by Richard Henry Dana Jr. Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic

Watch as Archisand sand sculptors bring the design in this concept rendering to life.

E15 Movie in the Park 6:30 p.m. Head to the grassy area at Baby Beach for a special showing of A Dolphin Tale. Free popcorn, hot beverages and snacks available. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and your own picnic.

Sunday, March 4, 2012 E8 Whale of a Pancake Breakfast 8 a.m.11 a.m. Start your day with a delicious

All Four Days

2012 Festival of Whales Merchandise T-shirts and sweatshirts will be on sale throughout the Harbor and are available for purchase online at www.festivalofwhales.com.

E10 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.–11 a.m. Marine mammals are among the most beloved icons of the California coast and yet much of their life history and biology remains a mystery.

Attend the Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching marine mammal lecture series at Harpoon Henry’s to learn some of the latest discoveries about them. Enjoy a continental breakfast as special guests present recent findings on whales, dolphins, other marine mammals and sharks.

March 3: Great white shark expert Mary Blasius; March 4: Doug Thompson on Gray whales; March 10: Alisa SchulmanJaniger speaks on killer whales and March 11: Dennis Kelly on bottlenose dolphin and sea otters. Following the lecture, board the

OCean Adventures catamaran for whale watching. Lecture is free with purchase of the cruise and includes continental breakfast. Lecture and breakfast only $5 per person, at the door. For tickets visit www. danawharf.com or call 949.496.5794.

E12 Art in the Park Local artists display a variety of works on the grassy areas at the corner of Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive.

E6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Guided family tidepool hikes through the Dana Point Marine Protected Area with Ocean Institute naturalists. First come, first served. Sign up at the front desk of the Ocean Institute after admission is paid, no additional charge.

E6 Ocean Institute 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a hands-on journey into the fascinating world of whales. Activities include crafts, animal feedings, ROV driving and tidepool touch

E15 “The Amazing Adventures of Captain Don” Book Signing 1 p.m.3 p.m. Author Donna Kalez will be signing her book “The Amazing Adventures of Captain Don” in the Dana Wharf booth at Ocean Awareness Day. Books $5. Purchase includes a free spin of the prize wheel with gifts valued up to $44.

E15 Diamond Dig Noon-1 p.m. The Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club Diamond Dig lets kids and adults pay for a shovel and dig for buried treasure—cash, toys and diamonds! Dress as a pirate and receive a clue.

E15 Whale of a Rubber Ducky Race 11 a.m.2 p.m. This fun spin on a traditional “Rubber Ducky Race” will be held at Baby Beach.

Prizes awarded to the top three finishers. $6 per duck or 2 for $10; need not be present to win.

E15 Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Compete in one of five categories: castles, whales and ocean creatures, pirates and ships, Woodies and surfboards, or patriotic emblems. Judging begins at 2:30 p.m. with awards to follow. Bring your own buckets and tools. Dyes and stabilizers not allowed—all natural. Sculpting creation areas are limited—first come, first served.

E15 Whale of a BBQ Noon-4 p.m. Delicious BBQ specialties at affordable prices served up at Baby Beach. Choose from tri-tip sandwiches, mouth-watering chicken sandwiches, scrumptious salads and more.

E10 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Fishing Trip 12 p.m.–12:30 p.m. Clinic followed by a fishing trip from 12:45 p.m.–5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Sportfishing invites kids to a dockside clinic to learn techniques from the experts, followed by a fishing trip. Adults are $39 plus license and equipment, children 12 and under free, equipment included. Call 949.496.5794 for reservations.

E5 Historical Society Public Reading 9 a.m.noon. The Historical Society hosts its second public reading of Two Years Before the Mast at the Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive. Over 100 volunteers read in 10-minute shifts. Donations gladly accepted.

tanks. Admission: $6.50 for adults and $4.50 for children (3 -12 yrs); children 2 and under and members are free.

fornia.” Screenings every hour. Also, see a live whale watching broadcast from www.

WhaleWatchingTV.com.

E7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The Dana Point Fine Arts Association will host an art show and sale on the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village. A portion of artists’ sales will benefit the Dana Hills High School Art Department.

E8 Stand-Up Paddling Clinics 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. Join the SUP craze and learn why it’s the fastest growing water sport today.

Westwind Sailing hosts 45-minute on-thewater clinics, on the hour, $10 per person, ages 12 and up. Call 949.492.3035 for details.

E8 Sailing Rides 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Westwind Sailing teaches passengers how to sail a Capri 14. Half-hour sessions $15 per boat, three people max., ages 5 and up. Call 949.492.3035 for details.

E9 Historical Society Town Center Walking Tour 2 p.m. Meet at 34091 (corner of Blue Lantern and PCH) for an historic Town Center walking tour of commercial and residential buildings. Call 949.248.8121 or visit www.danapointhistorical.org for info.

E4 Free Film Screening and Live Whale Watching Broadcast 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Stop by the Dolphin Deck, 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, for a free viewing of Captain Dave’s award-winning documentary “Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern Cali-

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E10 Harbor Music Series Noon–3 p.m.

A variety of music styles will be presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association in the Jolly Roger courtyard, Harpoon Henry grassy area and Mariner’s Village.

Calendar of Events Saturday, March 10, 2012 E15 3rd Annual Mongoose Cup 9 a.m. Join surf legend Mickey Muñoz and friends for a day of paddling fun. There will be an open fun paddle, Waterman Expo, SUP clinics and SUP relays. The event kicks off with a fun paddle, open to any type of paddling craft, and a harbor cleanup sweep. The Mongoose Cup will consist of SUP-only relays. Teams will be chosen by “luck of the draw.” Each elite Mongoose Cup safety paddler will draw names of three paddlers to complete their four-person teams. Entry includes commemorative Tshirt, BBQ lunch and a chance to paddle with Muñoz himself. Proceeds benefit the Festival of Whales, Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association and Doheny Longboard Surfing Association. Register online at http:// mongoosecup2012.eventbrite.com/ or on the beach starting at 7:30 a.m. For more info, call 714.262.8370.

• Muñoz will have a book signing following the event at the Dana Point Yacht Club.

Don’t miss this opportunity to get an autographed copy of his celebrated book No Bad Waves,Talking Story with Mickey Muñoz.

Weekend 2

make it today? The Commanders return for two more performances on Sunday morning at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Under the musical direction of TSgt Jim Butler, this 20-piece big band is considered one of the finest of its kind on the West Coast. From big band to contemporary, there’s something for all musical tastes. The Commanders began in 1959 as a component of the North American Air Defense (NORAD) Command Band and then merged with the Air Force Band of the Golden Gate in 1979 at Travis Air Force Base. The group has toured the western United States extensively, appeared on numerous radio and television shows, performed at Carnegie Hall, Monterey Jazz Festival, Redwood Coast Jazz Festival and with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and collaborated with the likes of Marvin Stamm, Steve Smith, Bob Hope, Walt Levinsky, Carl Saunders, and more.

E11, 12 Cal Rods Car Club 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Cal Rod Car Club, formed in 1954 in the San Gabriel Valley, will display approximately 50 classics and hot rods along the harbor walkway. Many of these cars have been featured in automotive magazines and received awards from the Grand National Roadster Show, L.A Roadster Show, La Verne Cool Cruise, Dr. George Charity Car Show in Palm Springs and more. For more information visit http://calrods.com.

E17 Whale of a Beach Cleanup 9 a.m.–noon Bring your work gloves and a recyclable bag or bucket and help clean up Doheny State Beach. Meet Ranger Vicki at the Lifeguard Headquarters and learn more about how you can help maintain our precious coastal resources.

E12 Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook Off 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sample a variety of tasty chowders and vote for your favorites along the Harbor walkway near Island Way. Cost: $5 for five tastes or $10 for 13.

The Commanders US Air Force Jazz Band of the Golden West. Courtesy photo

E14 The Commanders US Air Force Jazz Band of the Golden West 11 a.m.-noon and 2 p.m.4 p.m. The Commanders US Air Force Jazz Band of the Golden West performs two shows on the grass adjacent to Art in the Park. Bring blankets, beach towels or beach chairs and settle in for some great entertainment. Can’t

Event numbers correspond with the event map on pages 8 & 9

Sunday, March 11, 2012 E17 Festival of Whales Grunion Run 10K, 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ 1K Run The Grunion Run features a 10K at 7:45 a.m., 5K Run/Walk at 9 a.m., Kids’ 1K Run at 9:45 a.m. and awards at 10 a.m. FREE prerun shuttle service will begin at 6 a.m. with pick ups at the Ocean Institute, OC Sailing & Event Center and Dana Point Harbor Drive at Golden Lantern. Proceeds to benefit the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association, a nonprofit organization that supports interpretive, educational programs at Doheny State Beach.

Pre-registration and more information is available online at www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com.

• A Whale of a Pancake Breakfast will be served from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. inside Doheny State Park. Adults $6, $3 for children under 12. Bring your racing bib and receive $1 off breakfast. Proceeds from the breakfast will benefit Doheny Longboard Surfing Association and our local State Lifeguard Association.

E11, 12 Cal Rods Car Club 10 a.m.3 p.m. The Cal Rod Car Club will display approximately 50 classics and hot rods along the harbor walkway.

E10 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Fishing Trip 12 p.m.–12:30 p.m. Clinic followed by a fishing trip from 12:45 p.m.–5:45 p.m.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing invites kids to a dockside clinic to learn techniques from the experts, followed by a fishing trip. Prizes raffled after the clinic. Fishing trip bonus—the chance to see whales, dolphins and other marine life. Adults are $39 plus license and equipment, children 12 and under free, equipment included.

Call 949.496.5794 for reservations.

E4 Capt. Dave’s Kids’ Carnival Noon2 p.m. Fun for the whole “pod”! Drop by the Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive for free activities and prizes. Kids of all ages will have fun with games, crafts, face painting and more.

E6 Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Enjoy a tallship sailing adventure and gain new insights into man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and whales. Non-member price $40 adults, $23 children 12 and under; members—$36 adults, $21 children 12 and under (min. age 4).

Don’t forget to check page 10 for more events happening all four days of the festival PAGE 12

E15 Whale of a Concert and BBQ Noon4:30 p.m. FREE concert at Baby Beach with bands performing atop a specially designed floating stage. Tijuana Dogs—noon to 1 p.m., Lights (Journey Tribute band)—1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. and Chicago Tribute Authority—3:15 p.m. to 4:30 pm. Bring beach chairs or blankets to sit on. BBQ specialties and a Spirits Garden provided (over 21 with valid ID). For info, call 949.248.3530.

E14 Java and Jazz with The Commanders US Air Force Jazz Band of the Golden West 9 a.m-10 a.m. and 11 a.m.-noon The Commanders US Air Force Jazz Band of the Golden West performs two shows on the grass. Bring blankets or beach chairs. Stop

by The Coffee Importers between 8 a.m. and noon, mention Java and Jazz and get a FREE coffee!

E17 Doheny State Beach’s Mobile Marine Mammal Museum 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Mobile Marine Mammal Museum at the Doheny State Beach Visitor Center will present a free exhibition of genuine marine mammal artifacts for visitors to actively learn and gain an appreciation for these magnificent creatures of the sea. Please alert entrance station staff upon arrival so they can direct you to appropriate parking. Please note: Free vehicle parking at Doheny State Beach for Doheny State Beach’s Mobile Marine Mammal Museum is limited to one hour only. Rain cancels. Call 949.496.2704 or see www.dohenystatebeach.org for more information.

E8 “Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey” Book Signing and Lecture 11 a.m.-noon Join author Capt. Dave Anderson at the OC Sailing & Event Center for a lecture and video on whale entanglement and a signing of his new book “Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey.”

For more information call 949.488.2828 or see www.talesfromthepod.com.

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2012 Festival of Whales Coloring Contest

Every child who enters

WINS one FREE

Whale Watching or Fishing Ticket for kids 9 & under ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN MARCH 4, 2012

GRAND PRIZE Let the seagulls sing you to sleep… with a one-night beach get-a-way for a family of four in a Ocean View Suite, at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach in beautiful Dana Point, CA. A warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie at check-in is the hotel’s promise of a warm and caring experience.

IN ADDITION, Breakfast for four at Proud Mary’s in the Dana Point Harbor! And a whale watching trip for four from Dana Wharf Sportfishing!

www.danawharf.com

COURTESY OF DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING AND WHALE WATCHING

DANAWHARF.COM *No photo copies will be entered.* Mail completed entry form & coloring page to: Dana Wharf Sportfishing, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 Contestant’s Name Address

Age

Parent/Legal Guardian

Phone

Email I would like to recieve a child’s

Whale Watching Ticket

Fishing Ticket

PLEASE CHECK ONE

Contest is open to all children ages 9 and under. All entries must be received by March 4, 2012 for judging. Dana Point Times, San Clemente Times, The Capistrano Dispatch and Dana Wharf Sportfishing assume no responsibility for lost or late entries. All completed entries will receive one child’s whale watching ticket or child’s fishing ticket, compliments of Dana Wharf Sportfishing, mailed to the address on the contest entry. We do not accept the tickets on any group outing, and no copies are valid. The grand prize winner will be contacted by telephone. Some entries will be displayed around Dana Point Harbor during the 2012 Festival of Whales. The Grand Prize entry will be displayed at Dana Wharf Sportfishing. Contest entries will become the property of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and cannot be returned.

Employees of Picket Fence Media, Dana Wharf Sportfishing and their families are not eligible to win. All winners are responsible for taxes and applicable fees. All parents/legal guardians of the winners will be required to verify identity through a signed affidavit, social security number and valid driver’s license. Contest void where prohibited. Entry into this contest will serve as entrant’s agreement of the above contest rules. Coloring contest winner will be announced at the Festival of Whales Concert Sunday, March 11th at Baby Beach.

GETTING OUT

JAVIER COLON COMES TO THE COACH HOUSE Javier Colon is the first voice of The Voice. Just a year ago, Colon was working in the music industry, singing and writing his “acoustic soul” under his own label. But then came The Voice, NBC’s answer to “American Idol.” Now, he’s got a recording contract, a $100,000 prize and is playing the Coach House on March 2. Colon was invited to audition for The Voice in early 2011, and almost skipped it because of another commitment. He went anyways, singing Cyndi Lauper’s Time After Time. All four judges, Adam Levine, Cee-Lo Green, Blake Shelton and Christina Aguilera indicated they wanted to work with him, and Colon chose Levine, of Maroon 5, on his way to winning. His original song and debut single Stitch By Stitch sold more than 145,000 and peaked at No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart during its first week of digital sales. Colon performed Stitch

By Stitch on the Tonight Show With Jay Leno. His new album, Come Through for You, was released on Universal Republic Records. The debut single from the album is “As Long As We Got Love” and features Natasha Bedingfield. Colon plays at 6 p.m. on March 2 at the Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, Tickets are $25. Call 949.496.8930 or see www.thecoachhouse.com. —Jonathan Volzke

YOUR TWO-WEEK EVENT PLANNER

Javier Colon. Courtesy photo

THE LIST

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

friday

AN EVENING AT THE ACADEMY AWARDS 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

Learn about the history of the Academy Awards, look at film clips from past winners, discuss this year’s nominees and vote for your favorites at the library, featuring producers Robert Kline and Stephanie Heredia. Tickets $20. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

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AMERICA 8 p.m. Classic rock band plays at The Coach House, also with Beyond Conception and Don Brennan.

Tickets $75. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

saturday

CLEMENTINE DOES THE DIRTY DEED 8 p.m. An adult only play on Stage II at Camino Real Playhouse. Tickets $18.

Shows through Sunday. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

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BIRD WALK 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Join guest leaders Robert Scrimger and Gary Meredith for a bird walk at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy.

Cost $5-$10; members free. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

FAMILY STORYTELLING 1 p.m. An hour of nature stories told by beekeeper and storyteller Diane Wyzga at The Ecology Center. Free event. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.TheEcologyCenter.org.

sunday

KID’S PET PARADE 1 p.m.

The San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association presents the Kid’s Pet Parade at Cook/La Novia Park where children 12 and under can bring their pets in costume for contests. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. Each contest has a $3 entry fee. Corner of La Novia and Calle Arroyo, San Juan Capistrano, www.swallowsparade.org.

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The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 1, 2012

monday

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COUNTRY DANCIN WITH DJ BUBBA 6:30 p.m. Every Monday at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com

tuesday

KNITLIT 6 p.m. KnitLit, the Knitting Book Group, meets the last Tuesday of the month at the library. Bring your knitting or other craft project and discuss the book “I Feel Bad About My Neck” by Nora Ephron. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

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thursday

LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Meet the first & third Thursdays at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park to volunteer at the park, meet friends and more. Bring gloves. 31661 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.

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friday

CHAOS AT THE CANNERY 8 p.m. The annual Old West melodrama debuts at Camino Real Playhouse. Tickets $24$34. Preview night special of $18-$28. Performances through March 24. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

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FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Screening of “The Ides of March” at the library. Fee $2. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.248.5132, www.ocpl.org.

saturday

FESTIVAL OF WHALES 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Annual seafaring celebration in the Dana Point Harbor area featuring day parades, a “whale of a” block party, art exhibits, classic car exhibits, paddling events, sand sculpting, concerts on land and water, environmental activities, educational opportunities, interpretive crafts, kids activities, whale watching and more. Ongoing for two weekends: March 3 & 4, 10 & 11. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.1045, www.festivalofwhales.com.

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FAMILY FILM FEATURE 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Screening of “Puss in Boots” for the whole family to enjoy at the library, free admission and popcorn. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

WILDFLOWER WALK 9 p.m. The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy hike to explore ridges and canyons looking for spring wildflowers with guest biologist Tony Bomkamp at Ladera Open Space - Ladera East Trail. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

sunday

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. $2 adults, $1 children. 949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

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wednesday

NETWORKING BREAKFAST 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Chamber event the first Wednesday of the month at The Vintage Steak House.

Cost $10-$20. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

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thursday

FAMILY NIGHT FREE CONCERT 7 p.m.-8 p.m.

Ambuehl PTA and the Pacific Symphony Class Act present a concert featuring the music of Aaron Copland held in The Church In San Juan Capistrano. Free. 31731 San Juan Creek Road, 949.661.0400, 949.248.4619.

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EVENING NETWORKING MIXER 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Chamber event at the new Residence Inn by Marriott.

33711 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com. *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

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LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Friday 2.24 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 Monday 2.27 Parks, Recreation and Senior Services Commission Meeting 6 p.m.

City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

Capistrano Unified School Board of Trustees 7 p.m. CUSD Board Room,

33122 Valle Road. Trustees vote on election boundaries. Agenda at www.capousd.org.

Tuesday 2.28 Cultural Heritage Commission Meeting 5 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

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

Wednesday 2.29 Old Capistrano Farmers Market 3 p.m., Yorba Street, one block south of Ortega Highway between Camino Capistrano and El Camino Real.

Tuesday 3.06 City Council Meeting 6 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

Friday 3.09

*Meeting agendas at www.sanjuancapistrano.org

Next regular issue of The Dispatch publishes.

TOM BLAKE: On Life and Love After 50

Older Singles Sound Off about Matchmaking Companies

L

ately, I have been hearing from older singles who feel they have not received their money’s worth from matchmaking companies.

I am not referring to Internet dating services such as Match.com, eHarmony, JDate or Plenty of Fish, to name just a few. Rather, I am speaking of matchmaking companies where singles meet in person with a company representative at the company’s office, fill out paperwork and then pay a fee for the company to find them a “perfect” match.

After Jennie, a 66-year-old widow of eight years, contacted a matchmaking company, they called her repeatedly to come in for an interview.

She said, “One day I went for it. I walked right into their trap by telling them I was financially secure, home was paid for, etc.

“I was treated like royalty, filled out tons of paper work about my perfect match, and then my ‘matchmaker’ shoved the price list over to me. I paid $4,600.”

Two weeks later, Jennie met her first match for lunch; he didn’t call her again.

A month later, she was matched with a man who drank and smoked, characteristics she had written on the paperwork she didn’t want. The matchmaker told her she was being too picky. That man never called.

Jennie added, “The next match never called either. Then, my next match lived with his mother, was really into himself, and was also twice-divorced. We spoke by phone; I never heard from him again.

“After the fact, I went online and read all the bad reviews. I think I paid more for this ‘membership’ than anyone in the horror stories I read.”

The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 8, 2012

Men have issues with matchmaking companies as well. Curtis said, “I was called in for an interview. I asked on the phone how much? They said we will talk about it when ON LIFE AND you come in. So I went LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake in, we talked, and they presented me with a cost of $1,500. I refused.

“They asked why I came in. I told them nothing was on TV that night. The matchmaker complained that she could have been home with her daughter instead of wasting time with me. She walked out so I left.”

Elizabeth had a bad experience with a Los Angeles matchmaker: “I am so embarrassed,” she said. “I was taken for $10,000 by a match making company in Beverly Hills. I figured at that price they would introduce me to great prospects, although I was only entitled to seven introductions. It took three months before the first introduction—a huge flop.”

She said the next man she met was so cheap he jumped from his chair when she ordered an appetizer. He wanted them to split a salad for lunch. Another guy didn’t pay for her coffee.

“I met six cheapskates and a ‘wanna be’ over the phone. I had been scammed. I complained to high heaven, but they had my money,” Elizabeth said.

Matchmaking companies are aware that older singles are often lonely and vulnerable. They tailor their pitches to play on those weaknesses. They are only as good as the clients they can rope in. Singles know that finding a de-

cent partner--let alone a “perfect” one— later in life is difficult. It’s no easier for these companies to find quality singles.

Loneliness fogs thinking. Older singles—women and men—should think long and hard about signing up with a matchmaking company. The highpressure tactics are going to be present.

They cost lots of money and results are

Page 14

sketchy. Singles should read the reviews before signing up. Older singles need to protect their money.

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. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING JAN SIEGEL: A Moment in Time

Don Juan Avila: History on Display D on’t you just love it when the entire history of San Juan Capistrano comes together in one neat little package? And this one is even tied with a bow!

Two hundred years ago, on March 8, 1812 at Rancho San Pedro in Alta California (Los Angeles), Juan Avila was born.

Yes, this is the Juan Avila that Capistrano lore refers to as “El Rico.”

It is thought that the family name comes from the area in Spain, where they came from originally.

Cornelio Avila with his wife Isabel Urquidez helped Felipe de Neve bring the first families from Mexico to settle in the Pueblo of Los Angeles in 1781.

Their son, Antonio Ignacio, was the mayordomo of Rancho San Pedro and the father of Juan Avila who was born on the ranch in 1812. Juan Avila married Soledad Yorba of San Juan Capistrano in 1833. She was the daughter of Jose Antonio Yorba.

Juan Avila was given a large Mexican land grant on June 21, 1842, which he named El Rancho Niguel. Thousands of head of cattle roamed the Ranchero, which extended from the ocean at what is today called Laguna Niguel and

included the area now known as Laguna Woods.

Avila became very wealthy by driving cattle to northern markets during the Gold Rush.

JAN SIEGEL When the four years of drought occurred in the 1860’s only 800 of his 8,000 livestock survived. But he was able to financially survive the drought and helped his neighbors as well.

The Avilas built their home in San Juan Capistrano. In an article from the 1941, The Coastline Dispatch, the 10room adobe home was described “as the best in Spanish Californian native architecture with luxurious woodwork and furnishings that were brought around Cape Horn from the eastern states. The mansion had “glistening white walls, green New England shutters, great paneled doors, lofty beamed ceiling and rich and artistic furnishings that were the pride and envy of Southern California pueblos. “ The 10 rooms ended where the north wall of the large two-story brick building now

stands (the Provincial building and) formed the Avila residence, the remaining seven contiguous rooms, ending at the corner of Verdugo and forming the Valenzeula and Pryor homes, had a common front wall and corridor with the Avila portion making a great unbroken block of adobe buildings.” Don Ramon Yorba, nephew of Soledad Yorba de Avila and frequent visitor of the large adobe, said in an interview question “what was San Juan like in the 1860’s?”

The answer, “Why, Don Juan Avila’s house of course—that was all there was to San Juan Capistrano in those days.”

Don Juan Avila also had a rancho adobe on his Rancho Niguel property. “Part of the decoration in the living room of that establishment was a stuffed calf.

The calf was stuffed from head to hoof with great eight-sided gold slugs—California’s fabled $50 gold pieces!”

The hospitality of the Avila’s were legendary. In 1846 and 1847 Generals Fremont and Kearny as well as Commodore Stockton were said to have been entertained. General Andreas Pico and the last two Mexican governors Pio Pico and Jose Maria Flores were also welcome visitors.

Pick Up a Chick in Capistrano The Capistrano Dispatch

rtega Tack and Feed announced its 2012 Chick Days, a program focused on healthy starts for baby chicks that herald the coming of spring.

Ortega Tack and Feed’s 2012 Chick Days will provide poultry raising resources to the San Juan Capistrano community throughout March. With many people looking for ways to save on food costs and control their food choices, from the farm to the backyard, raising chickens provides a healthy and educational alternative.

Chickens are only allowed in certain San Juan Capistrano neighborhoods.

To kick off Chick Days, Ortega Tack and Feed will have an event from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on March 3 with chicks, games, activities, prizes and educational information. For more information call 949.487.1535 or visit the store at 31738 Rancho Viejo Road.

“Farm families have known the joys of raising their own poultry for years, but people everywhere are beginning to realize the many benefits of raising poultry, even if it’s right in their own backyards,” Maureen Auerswald, a store manager, said in a statement. “There is nothing as

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The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 8, 2012

gratifying as the ability to participate in the production of backyard food.”

Throughout the duration of Chick Days, Ortega Tack and Feed will offer advice and guidance on how to raise baby chickens, including details on proper nutrition to provide the best eggs. During the Great Starts™ promotion period Ortega Tack and Feed, a Purina dealer, will be providing special cost-savings on Purina brand feeds -perfect feeds for these baby chicks.

Ortega Tack and Feed will be providing special cost-savings on Certified Natural Start & Grow or Flock Raiser feed from Purina throughout Chick Days.

“Chicken owners know their eggs are fresh and natural and can be confident in the treatment of the meat they eat as well as the fun activity for the whole family to get involved with,” Auerswald said. “The Great Starts promotion coupled with Chick Days events are designed to show people how easy it is to raise their own chickens for eggs, meat or pets. Right now the interest in raising backyard poultry is continuing to grow.”

For more information, see www. ortegatackandfeed.com. CD Page 16

There was always music and plenty of food. Whenever provisions ran low, locals knew that they could always count of the generosity of Don Juan.

The fire of 1879 destroyed most of the Avila mansion. What furnishings could be saved were moved outside by Ranch hands. According to legend, it took eight ranch hands to move the great chest from the blazing adobe to safety. What happened to the ‘gold inside the chest’ is still the talk of legend in town today. But Avila could no longer afford to rebuild the adobe. So he settled on a suite of four rooms and used the saved shutters and saved paneled doors as reminders of the past. The chest. Oh yes, it survived.

Starting in March, the Historical Society on Los Rios Street will exhibit artifacts from the Avila family, including the chest. This is the tying of the history of our town with a neat bow. The artifacts have been bequeathed to the Society by the great-grandchildren of Don Juan Avila.

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.” CD

NCL Plans Annual Fashion Show for March T he Capistrano Coast Chapter of National Charity League, Inc. (NCL) announces its Annual Fundraiser Fashion Show to be held on March 25 at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point.

NCL is a mother-daughter organization, committed to promoting charitable endeavors.

The proceeds from the fundraiser will help support NCL, Inc. Capistrano Coast Chapter philanthropies such as food banks, after school programs, senior activities and fine arts. Funds are also earmarked for need-based college scholarships given each spring to graduating seniors from our community.

NCL, Inc. Capsitrano Coast helps support 26 local philanthropies, some are: Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano Valley, Family Assistance Ministries (FAM), JF Shea Therapeutic Riding Center, Kinoshita Elementary School, Laura’s House, Meals on Wheels, Ocean Institute, Dana Point

Senior Center, Orange County Libraries, the U.S. Military and Ronald McDonald House.

Last year, the event raised over $35,000. In addition to helping fund many crucial community charities, the NCL mothers and daughters spend thousands of hours of time at their locations serving their clients.

“At our silent auction, we promote local merchants, those who offer personal services, artists and others who do business in south Orange County.

We are most grateful for any donations to help support our annual giving. The show is often sold out,” Pam Vasquez, president NCL, Inc . Capistrano Coast Chapter, said in the event announcement.

Those who would like to contribute to the silent auction or assist with the underwriting of the event and be recognized, please contact Debby Verde, VP of Ways & Means at debbyverde@ aol.com. CD

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY The only directory featuring San Juan Capistrano businesses exclusively Friess Electric 949.248.4222 32332 Camino Capistrano, Suite 102

ACCOUNTING/TAX San Juan Financial, LLC 949.496.1151 31726 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. 115, will@sfcll.com

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

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS Excel Electric - CA #793860 949.493.7769 32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, www.excelelectric.com

EXPERIENCE THE MISSION

PAINTING SUPPLIES

SLAB LEAK REPAIR

Dunn-Edwards Painting, Inc. 949.234.1201 31896 Plaza Dr. Unit D-1, Plaza Del Obispo Center

PHOTO & DIGITAL LAB

WATER DAMAGE

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

Historic Mission San Juan Capistrano PLUMBING BANKING Exciting New Audio Tour 949.234.1300 A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 Independence Bank 949.373.8963 26801 Ortega Highway, www.missionsjc.com www.atozleakdetection.com 32291 Camino Capistrano, Suite A, INSURANCE Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 www.independence-bank.net www.chicks-plumbing.com Capistrano Health & Life 949.697.9454 BUSINESS COMPUTER SERVICES Pronto Plumbing (El Plomero) 949.246.3589 www.capistranohealthlife.com 31878 Del Obispo Ste. 118-227, Lightning Technology, Inc. 949.488.0029 JEWELER www.prontodrain.com 32963 Calle Perfecto, www.lightningtechnology.com 949.493.2426 Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design 949.493.3632 SCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. COMPUTER SERVICES 32382 Del Obispo, Ste. C-3, www.abbysdesigns.com 27126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com San Clemente Computer & Network Services PRINTING daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 KITCHEN DESIGN Printing OC 949.388.4888 Tired of Waiting I.T. Services 949.922.7727 Kitchen & Bath Designs 949.661.4080 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com j.ehle@cox.net 27231 Ortega Hwy., Unit B

COINS

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

MOLD REMOVAL

GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

949.350.4692

ELECTRICIANS Excel Electric 949.493.7769 32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, www.excelelectric.com

CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES PART TIME WORK- MUST FILL ASAP $16 Base/Appt National Company Has Several Openings Customer Service & Sales Flexible Schedules Scholarship Opportunities MUST FILL positions IMMEDIATELY CALL (949) 347-8708 APPLY ONLINE www.workforstudents.com

HELP WANTED SALES ASSOCIATE WANTED For Appliances & Electronics Retailer; Part time, possible full time. 60 year old South OC Company. Experience preferred Great hours and competitive pay. Call 949-289-5794 M-F 9-5 The Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley is presently recruiting for two positions: PROGRAM AIDE (Part-time) Part-time Program Aide position to work with students ages 7-12 after school. Hours will be 2pm-6pm, Monday through Friday. Duties will include planning and implementing activities in one or more of the following areas: education; social recreation; arts and crafts; and physical education.

Requirements: high school diploma, experience working with children, communication skills to deal with children and with the general public (bilingual in Spanish a plus), CPR and first aid certification. If interested, please contact Nicole Watson, Unit Director, at 949.240.7898 extension *19 or by email at nbelair@bgccapo.com.

YOUTH TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION DIRECTOR (Full-time) Works with youth (ages 7 – 18) to teach computer and technology skills ranging

Jarvis Restoration 949.362.5388 Bryan Krueger Enterprises, Inc. 33208 Paseo De Cerveza, Ste. B 31942 Paseo Sagrado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

949.212.0499

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

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

949.290.8230

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, go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7.

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

SCHOOLS

MORTGAGE Capistrano Health & Life www.capistranohealthlife.com

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

949.697.9454

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

S U B M I T Y O U R C L A S S I F I E D A D O N L I N E AT W W W.T H E C A P I S T R A N O D I S PAT C H . C O M

from typing/keyboarding to computer software applications. Generally works with 7 -30 youth per hour in the Computer Lab. Plans, implements and supervises a variety of creative programs with an emphasis on technology. Creates a positive environment for youth in support of BGCA values.

Promotes and markets programs to increase membership and attendance. Administers department within resources allocated. Maintains facilities for members’ health and safety. Updates Club website.

Supports all audio/visual equipment usage. Works with IT consultant to support and maintain the Club’s computer equipment and network. Drives Club van to transport members. May manage special programs or events. Communicates with staff, parents and members of the community to explain, promote and develop programs. Requirements: Minimum of 2 years’ work experience in a BGC or similar organization planning and organizing youth development activities. Associates degree. Strong communication skills and understanding of group dynamics. Demonstrated organizational and project management abilities. Basic knowledge of updating and managing websites. Ability to repair technology equipment . Proficient in Microsoft Office (particularly Word). Demonstrated ability to use AV equipment. Demonstrated skill with using video development software. CPR and First Aid certifications.

Valid driver’s license and clear driving record. Must secure Class B license within one year of hire. Ability to work a variable schedule generally between 9 am and 8 pm. If interested, please contact Lynn Watson, Office Manager, at 949.240.7898 extension *10 or by email at lwatson@bgccapo.com. The Boys & Girls Clubs

of Capistrano Valley is an equal opportunity employer.

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

5 BEST BETS GIRLS SOCCER

COLLEGE BASEBALL

HOCKEY

BASKETBALL

COLLEGE BASEBALL

Tartans vs. Jaguars, Segerstrom High School

Huskies vs.

Anteaters, Anteater Ballpark

Blackhawks vs.

Ducks, Honda Center

Timberwolves vs.

Lakers, Staples Center

Huskies vs.

Anteaters, Anteater Ballpark

February 24, 3 p.m.

February 26, 1 p.m.

February 26, 4 p.m.

February 29, 7:30 p.m.

February 26, 1 p.m.

The Tartans, coming off a 3-0 win over San Jacinto, go into the CIF quarterfinal against Segerstrom High in San Clemente.

College baseball is in full swing as UC Irvine’s men’s baseball team wraps up a 3-game series against University of Washington. Info:

After playing in eight games on the road, the Anaheim Ducks finally return to home ice and will take on Chicago.

Following two road games at Dallas and Oklahoma City, the Lakers return to L.A. for a game against Minnesota.

College baseball is in full swing as UC Irvine’s men’s baseball team wraps up a 3-game series against University of Washington.

Info: www.ducks.nhl.com

Info: www.nba.com/lakers

Info: wwwucirvinesports.com

Info: www.smes.org

wwwucirvinesports.com

Steelers Win NFL Flag South Orange County Winter Season Tournament The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he Steelers prevailed over the Patriots in the final game of the NFL Flag South Orange County tournament played Saturday at Capistrano Valley Christian School.

Under the leadership of Coaches George Craven and John Carroll, the Steelers strong defense held the Patriots to a single touchdown in their 31-6 victory.

Team members include Carter Klein, Grant Oldenburg, Brooke Carroll,

Equestrian Quarantine Lifted

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he quarantine at Rancho Sierra Vista Equestrian Stables was lifted on February 14, after 21 days passed without any new visible symptoms relat4ed to neuropathogenic equine herpes virus-1.

The state said 16 horses tested positive for the neuropathogenic strain of EHV-1, which creates cold-like symptoms in horses. It does not affect humans.

The stable was quarantined between January 10 and February 14.

See www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/animal_health/equine_herpes_virus.html and www.sjcec.org for more information. CD

The Capistrano Dispatch February 24–March 8, 2012

Nicholas Drossel, Spencer Kline, Bryce Allen, Connor Walcott, Corey Peterson, Will Craven, Reece Encinas and Dylan Laguatan.

NFL Flag South Orange County is the area’s newest youth flag football league for boys and girls ages 5-14.

Players have the chance to be an official NFL player (reversible NFL Flag team jersey included) while learning lessons in football and teamwork.

Register today for our Spring season at: www.nfl flag.com or call 949.303.0328. CD

Courtesy photo

LADY STALLIONS FALL IN INAUGURAL TRIP TO BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS

By Greg Spear For The Capistrano Dispatch

F

ebruary 2012 has had several “firsts” for the lady Stallions of San Juan Hills. On February 6, San Juan won their first league game in school history. After two seasons in the Pacific Coast league and the last two playing in the Sea View league, it wasn’t until their last league game this season that they were able to pull off the victory.

Behind San Juan’s three bigs, Allie Biedermann, Erin Thompson, and Annika Van Galder, combined they were able to defend Trabuco Hills

center Ravyn Vinson and limit her to 2 points as they held on to a thrilling 40-38 victory.

On Sunday February 12, the Stallions were awarded their first CIF playoff spot in school history. Senior Olivia Vega stated on senior night that she hoped to come back next season and watch a Stallions playoff game.

Well she might be able to come back and watch next season but she ended up being the starting point guard in the Stallions first playoff game.

Unfortunately, on Thursday, February 16, San Juan Hills got to experience another first, their first playoff loss. The Stallions opened the playoffs against the 6th-seeded Sea Kings Page 18

from Palos Verdes. The Sea Kings took a 65-48 victory and advancedinto the second round. Victoria Yutronich finished with a game high 29 points.

Kelsey Brockway added 21 points, including 14 in the second half. Abby Conklin lead the Stallions with 20 points. She finished 8-of-12 from the field, including 3-of-4 from behind the arch. Allie Biedermann had her highest scoring game since the December 27 game vs Long Beach Jordan, finishing with 12 points and grabbed a team high 6 rebounds. In her last game as a Stallion, Vega finished with 6 points and a team high 5 assists.

San Juan finished the season with a 10-14 overall record. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com