The Capistrano Dispatch

YO UR BEST SOURCE F OR LOC A L N EWS, EV EN TS , S P O R TS A N D M O R E

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE SEPTEMBER 14–27, 2012 FOUNDED IN 2002

VOLUME 10, ISSUE 17

Election 2012 kickoff: Get to know the City Council candidates, in their own words.

Taxpayer Group Sues City Over Water Rates

Tartans Girls Tennis Team Wins 100th Straight Match

INSIDE: Shea Center to Host 34th Annual BBQ

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

SPORTS/PAGE 30

SPECIAL INSERT

EYE ON SJC

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SAN CLEMENTE The City of San Clemente has received two grants from the Orange County Transportation Authority for bicycle and pedestrian projects totaling more than $1.1 million. The larger of the two grants went to the city’s bicycle corridor improvement program, and will fund the creation of a class 1 bikeway that will connect residents of Talega and Forester Ranch with the new San Juan Hills High School, as a part of the Avenida La Pata extension. San Clemente resident Brenda Miller, who helps lead bicycle advocacy group PEDal, said the trail would provide a paved surface specifically for non-motorized transportation, meaning bicycles and pedestrian traffic with a safer way of traveling throughout the region. The grant will require a local match of $1.18 million.

NEWS

NEXT DOOR WH AT ’S GOIN G O N I N OU R NE IGH B O R I N G TOWN S

DANA POINT Nichole Chambers, former President/CEO of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, was arrested Wednesday, August 29 on charges of grand theft related to her admission of financial wrongdoing against the chamber in her November 2010 resignation letter. Chambers was hired in December of 2007. According to authorities, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department issued a warrant for her arrest on August 24 and she surrendered August 29 at the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach. Chambers was booked into the Central Women’s Jail in Santa Ana. Bail was set at $130,000. She faces three felony counts of grand theft with enhancements—theft in excess of $100,000, aggravated white collar crime over $100,000 and property damage over $65,000.

Chambers’ September 13 arraignment hearing was continued to September 17.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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…Water Lawsuit?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Taxpayers Association, a local taxpayers’ rights group, filed a lawsuit against the city of San Juan Capistrano on Wednesday, August 29, alleging that the city’s water rate structure is in violation of state law.

The lawsuit claims the rate structure violates Proposition 218, which requires rates to be relative to cost of service.

According to a letter sent to the city, the group believes the rates are based on an arbitrary formula.

“We’ve asked the city numerous times to supply the quantitative analysis to show the rates are based on cost,” said Ben Benumoff, attorney for the group. “Prop. 218 says there’s nothing wrong with higher tiers, but if it costs more, it should also cost more to deliver.”

The lawsuit goes on to claim that water rates have financed a “phantom bond” to fund water operations despite no bond ever being issued, and that high rates, as a result of the Ground Water Recovery Plant, could be resolved by purchasing water elsewhere.

WHAT’S NEXT: The City Council will discuss the lawsuit in a closed session meeting on Tuesday, September 18. “Frankly, I believe the city is going to make a vigorous defense it believes it proceeded by law,” City Attorney Hans Van Ligten said.

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit thecapistranodispatch.com. —Brian Park

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...the In-Lieu Fee?

THE LATEST: Residential developers will now have an easier time building homes The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

in San Juan Capistrano after the City Council approved a 10 percent cut in a fee used to develop affordable housing.

San Juan Capistrano requires developers to designate 10 percent of new developments as affordable housing or pay an “in-lieu” fee, which funds the city’s effort to allocate such housing for lowincome families. The fee was adopted in 1995 and was initially set at 1 percent of a development’s total cost. Developers took advantage of this, and the city struggled to provide enough affordable housing as required by a 2007 state law. The city increased the fee in 2009, prompting complaints from developers who said that San Juan Capistrano was one of the most expensive cities to build homes in the state.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city has already developed 245 affordable-housing units but must create 1,062 by 2014 and 1,700 by 2021.

FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, visit thecapistranodispatch.com. —BP

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...Alcohol Sales in Los Rios?

THE LATEST: The Planning Commission denied a request by Monica Mukai, owner of the Lupe Combs House in the Los Rios Historic District, to sell alcohol on her property on Tuesday over concern that such a move would be a precursor to adverse change to the area’s residential character.

The commission voted 6-1 to deny Mukai’s request to amend the district’s land-use standards. Mukai’s property currently houses Hummingbird House Café. Nearby, the Ramos House Café and the Tea House on Los Rios are the

only two businesses in the district that sell alcohol under an accessory-use permit the city did away with in 1997.

“When you can only sell lemonade or soda, it really makes it for a challenging economic situation,” Mukai said.

The commission voted in favor of design plan for a bathroom addition to a historic jailhouse located on the site and also for an amendment that allows Mukai to set up an adjoining site for outdoor commercial use.

WHAT’S NEXT: The issue will move on to the City Council for a final decision.

FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, visit capistranodispatch.com —BP

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…Caltrans Outreach?

THE LATEST: Caltrans representatives have begun a community outreach campaign to inform San Juan Capistrano businesses and residents about the Interstate 5/Ortega Highway interchange project.

Outreach team members will travel door-to-door to pass out informational material about the $86.2 million project, which is scheduled to begin early 2013.

Caltrans will also hold monthly meetings with business owners to provide updates and answer questions. The meetings will take place on the first Monday of every month at 9 a.m. at Hidden House Coffee in the Los Rios Historic District. Caltrans has also set up a Facebook page and a Twitter account to provide updates: Facebook. com/ortegainterchangeproject and @ OrtegaHighway.

The project will rebuild the Ortega Highway bridge over the I-5, construct a new northbound loop on-ramp,

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reconfigure the northern portion of Del Obispo Street leading to the bridge and apply several changes to existing on- and off-ramps.

WHAT’S NEXT: Construction is projected to end in the spring of 2015. In a presentation to the City Council, Caltrans officials said that San Juan Capistrano motorists will face several early morning road closures.

FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, visit capistranodispatch.com —BP

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…the Las Hadas Buildings?

THE LATEST: A pair of commercial buildings located in an unfavorable zoning district near historic Los Rios Street should have an easier time attracting tenants after the City Council approved an amendment that simplifies the permit approval process September 4.

The Las Hadas buildings, located on Del Obispo Street between Los Rios Street and Paseo Adelanto, are the only two buildings in the city that are zoned in the “low density office” district, which severely limits permitted uses by businesses.

Las Hadas, LLC, the management company for the two buildings, argued that the high price of the permits, up to $5,000, deterred prospective tenants.

WHAT’S NEXT: With the council’s approval of the amendment, any commercial tenant occupying no more than 1,500 square feet can now sell groceries, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, jewelry, electronics and other similar products.

FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, visit thecapistranodispatch.com. —BP www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Improvements on the way for Blas Aguilar Adobe State grant funding will help restore the historic structure and add new elements

By Brian Park The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he Blas Aguilar Adobe will receive several improvements after the City Council approved rehabilitation plans for the historic site on Tuesday, September 4.

Modifications to the adobe include the construction of a platform and hoist over the historic well, installation of interpretive and educational features and the reconstruction of a horno, an outdoor adobe oven. The improvements are funded by a $498,434 state grant the city received in May 2011.

“This is something we want to have as a really important and noticed part of our history, and the grant allows us to do that,” Councilwoman Laura Freese said.

Freese did, however, question the necessity of a proposed fire pit on the site.

David Belardes, leader of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians and chairman of the Blas Aguilar Adobe Foundation, said the pit would be used for cooking and ceremonial purposes.

The adobe is currently home to the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum, which houses artifacts, relics and replicas depicting Juaneño and Acjachemen life, history and culture. The site is currently cared for by Belardes and five other volunteers. Belardes and councilmembers hoped that rehabilitation of the site, including the addition of a new outdoor sign, would attract more visitors and volunteers.

“I hope that we can expand the interest and get more people involved in it,” Mayor Larry Kramer said. “It’s another priceless thing in this town and we need to make sure more people appreciate it.”

The City Council unanimously

approved the resolution by a 4-0 vote.

Councilmember Sam Allevato was absent from the meeting. CD

The Blas Aguilar Adobe. File photo

New Wine Bar on its Way Downtown Following Planning Commission’s Approval

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with beer, appetizers and food pairings.

The proposed wine bar is located within the “Town Center” zone district, which allows for wine tasting businesses so long as they operate with a Planning Commission-approved conditional-use permit. Fairchild and Fisher were met with little resistance at the meeting, as the commission unanimously approved their permit.

The commission added the stipulation that any special activities at the wine bar be approved with a corresponding permit. In a letter to the city, Fairchild and

Fisher stated that they have not planned any regular events.

Fairchild will manage the day-to-day business, according to Fisher. Only two regular employees will be on site and the venue will have seating for up to 33 patrons. The proposed hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. from Sunday to Saturday. The business will be closed on Mondays. The couple hopes to open the bar by October 22 — their first wedding anniversary.

After the commission’s decision, Fairchild and Fisher said they chose

downtown San Juan Capistrano because of the area’s atmosphere and its accessibility for pedestrians.

“We love the physical location that we found … we’ve sat in the parking lot and watched people walk around freely,” Fisher said.

The commission’s decision comes nearly three months after the City Council approved a deal with Trabuco Canyon-based Hamilton Oaks Vineyard to operate a wine-tasting and special events venue at the historic Swanner House. CD —Brian Park

City Council approves agreement to temporarily fill vacancy at Ground Water Recovery Plant The City Council approved a $50,000 agreement with Project Partners to City Hall opens one-stop shop temporarily fill a vacancy for a support The city held a ribbon-cutting ceremoposition at the Ground Water Recovery ny for its new one-stop shop customer service space on Wednesday, September Plant. The Utilities Operator II became unexpectedly vacant on Monday, August 12. San Juan Capistrano residents and 20, but Project Partners has been servicbusinesses will now have one place to go ing the position since then. The agreefor all public counter activity and cusment was not able to make it into the City tomer services functions, such as paying Council’s agenda on Tuesday, August 21, for bills and applying for permits. The so city staff asked the council to approve new counter and space was built in the the agreement on Tuesday, September 4. area once occupied by the public works The council did not pull the item for disand development services departments.

Insley Construction completed the project cussion at the meeting, but Councilman Derek Reeve still registered a vote against ahead of schedule and with enough time it. Although the period of the contract to include additional electrical outlets, runs until June 30, 2013, the city expects cables and phone drops at the city’s request. The project was completed under to hire a new employee within three the budgeted amount at a total of $67,615. months, according to the staff report.

The cost of the agreement will be funded by money that would have gone to the position as well as a reduction in chemical supplies for the plant.

mission at a later time, according to Van Ligten.

nother wine-tasting business is on its way to San Juan Capistrano, after the Planning Commission unanimously approved a conditional-use permit for the site on Tuesday, August 28.

Suzy Fairchild and Randy Fisher of Rancho Santa Margarita have proposed to open Five Vines Wine Bar, a 1,000-square foot venue, in the former home of Villas and Verandas Fine Art Gallery, across from Regency Theatre.

The husband-and-wife team plans to feature 40 different wines to taste, along

City Hall Notes

The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

New City Attorney begins work in San Juan Capistrano New City Attorney Hans Van Ligten attended his first set of meetings in City Hall recently. Van Ligten, from Costa Mesa-based Rutan & Tucker, participated in the Planning Commission’s meetings on Tuesday, August 28 and Tuesday, September 11. He also attended his first City Council meeting on Tuesday, September 4. The plan for the time being is for Van Ligten to attend both council and commission meetings to get acclimated with the city’s most immediate concerns. New Assistant City Attorney Patrick Muñoz, who has already begun working with the city, will attend his first Planning Com-

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City cancels and reschedules meetings The City Council’s regular meetings on November 20 and January 1 have been cancelled to accommodate for city staff’s holiday schedules and travel plans. City staff recommended the changes at the council’s meeting on Tuesday, September 4. The changes will have no effect on the city’s ability to deliver services, according to the staff report. The council’s meeting on November 6 has also been rescheduled to November 13 because it falls on the date of the election. The November 6 Housing Advisory Committee has also been scheduled to November 13. The committee’s January 1 meeting has been cancelled and will not be rescheduled, according to a city release. —Brian Park www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Brian Park

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO

DAR to observe anniversary of US Constitution

Rancho Mission Viejo donates $100,000 to local groups

The San Clemente Island Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will celebrate the 225th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on Monday, September 17. The public is welcome to join chapter members at the entrance of Mission San Juan Capistrano at 12:30 p.m. to commemorate the anniversary with a bell-ringing ceremony. Other chapters are expected to participate in a nationwide ceremony, called “Bells Across America,” between 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m.

Mayor Larry Kramer is expected to be in attendance to present a proclamation for Constitution Week, which runs from September 17-23.

Rancho Mission Viejo presented checks totaling $100,000 to three local organizations on Wednesday, September 5. Representatives from Camino Health Center, the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center and CHOC Children’s at Mission Hospital were on hand at ranch headquarters to receive the checks. Rancho Mission Viejo donated the funds from proceeds collected from the 12th annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo, which took place August 25-26. Camino Health Center and CHOC Children’s accepted $25,000 checks while the Shea Center received $50,000. Since the rodeo’s inception, Rancho Mission Viejo has donated more than $1.1 million to local charities and organizations.

City honors Los Rios Park Garden Angels

Mayor Larry Kramer offers the podium to Goin Native owner Marianne Taylor after the Los Rios Park Garden Angels were honored by the City Council.

Photo by Brian Park

The Los Rios Park Garden Angels, a group of gardeners who volunteer their time to help care for Los Rios Park, were honored by the San Juan Capistrano City Council Tuesday, September 4.

“We’re going to honor and recognize a group of individuals who love to garden, who have a real passion for giving back and like to get their hands dirty,” Mayor Larry Kramer said. “You can build a park, but if you don’t maintain it, it goes downhill real quick.”

Kramer and Mayor Pro Tem John Taylor presented 11 Garden Angels with certificates and blue denim gardening aprons with the words “Los Rios Garden Angels” embroidered in orange across the front.

The program was started in 2009 by Taylor’s wife, Marianne Taylor. Volunteers meet regularly to maintain Los Rios Park.

The program is just one service offered by Marianne Taylor’s business, Goin Native, which also offers gardening and cooking classes and debuted the Los Rios Historic District Garden Tour this year. To become a volunteer or to learn more about Goin Native, visit goinnative.net.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

Caltrans appoints new county director Orange County native Ryan Chamberlain has been appointed as the new director of Caltrans District 12, Director Malcolm Dougherty announced Thursday, September 6. Chamberlain will oversee all department functions in Orange County starting Monday, September 17. He takes over for Brent Green, who has served as the district’s acting director since Cindy Quon retired in May. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to come home and work … to improve mobility and safety for all travel modes throughout California,” Chamberlain said in a news release.

Chamberlain joined Caltrans over 12 years ago. He previously worked in District 12 as deputy district director of planning and local assistance. Chamberlain served most recently as division chief of transportation planning in Sacramento, from where he managed approximately 650 statewide personnel.

MIssion selects new Preservation Foundation member Laguna Hills resident Don Dorkowski has been named the newest board member of the Mission Preservation Foundation, the Mission announced Friday, September 7. Dorkowski has a diverse professional background. He simultaneously worked as a high school teacher and helped his family’s business for 35 years, and he also was a football referee for 44 years, including 25 in the National Football League. Dorkowski fills the vacancy

Rancho Mission Viejo Director of Stewardship and Special Projects Katrina Lamkin and Senior Vice President of Ranch Operations Lissa Freese (top row, left to right) presented checks to representatives from Camino Health Center, CHOC Children’s at Mission Hospital and the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center on Wednesday, September 5. Courtesy photo

created by Mike Hagan’s retirement.

Dorkowski has also been active in several charitable causes and organizations, including Mission Regional Hospital, Best Friends Animal Society, Homefront America, the American Cancer Society and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

He is entering his third year as chief of the Noble Vikings of Orange County, an organization that provides boxes of food for needy families during the Christmas season.

City Council recognizes Youth Advisory Board members

The San Juan Capistrano City Council posed for a photo with three outgoing members of the Youth Advisory Board and their adult advisor Gerald Muir.

Photo by Brian Park

Eight outgoing members of the Youth Advisory Board were recognized for their time and service to the San Juan Capistrano at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, September 4. San Juan Hills High School senior Alberto Barrera, Dana Hills High School sophomore Bradley Reyes and JSerra Catholic High School senior Katie Jenner were present to accept their certificates. The other outgoing members are Anam Sadruddin, Alexis D’Epangnier, Hope Frisch, Katie Ryan and Janelle Janke, whose parents attended the meeting to accept the certificate on her behalf.

“You taught me a lot too, and I want to wish you the very best in your life and your endeavors,” said Gerald Muir, who, along with Joseph Lopez, serves as one of the board’s two adult advisors. “You will succeed if you give your time like you’ve done for the city and the community.”

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The board’s newest members were sworn in during their meeting on Monday, August 27. The new members are Daniel Bondi, Gladys Garcia, Edward Mackay, Adriana Martinez, Tatiana Rivera, Sara Schmitt and Isabella Vasquez. The board meets twice a month and serves as a liaison between the city’s youth and the City Council.

Volunteers needed for ASAP The city is seeking additional volunteers to join the Associated Senior Action Program, or ASAP. This program works under the direction of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and supports San Juan Capistrano’s police services.

Assignments include van patrol and bike patrol, during which volunteers may issue citations for parking violations, report graffiti and make vacation-home checks. Volunteers also staff the kiosk booth at the train depot to help visitors to San Juan Capistrano. The program also provides administrative support to the Police Services Department by handling front desk duties.

ASAP volunteers also provide assistance during city events, including the Swallows’ Day Parade, San Juan Summer Nites, the Fourth of July Celebration and the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Despite the program’s name, there is no age requirement to join the program.

There is, however, a preference for individuals with open availability during the day, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Volunteers typically work one shift per week for four to five hours.

For more information or to apply, call the police services department at 949.443.6369.

Have something interesting for the community?

Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. Forward a picture along, too!

We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your info to bpark@thecapistranodispatch.com.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY KEVIN DAHLGREN

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.

Monday, September 10 DISTURBANCE Calle Rolando, 26400 Block (2:52 a.m.)

A woman called police during an argument between her and her 17-year-old son. She said her son was becoming more agitated as the argument went on and believed he may become violent.

DISTURBANCE Park Circle, 26400 Block (12:30 a.m.)

A female was seen sleeping in her car. The caller said the woman was a resident of the neighborhood but was unsure why she was sleeping outside of her house.

Sunday, September 9 MISSING JUVENILE Paseo Reposo, 27900 Block (8:32 p.m.)

A woman called police to report her 17-year-old son had been missing since August 29. The woman had spoken to the police the previous week, but no report was filed.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32300 Block (6:20 p.m.)

Police were called after the two residents were seen in a verbal altercation that turned physical. A neighbor called police to report the argument after witnessing one man hit the other man in the face. The assaulter was described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, with a thick, bushy mustache and wearing a white shirt and jeans.

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE Valle Road, 33500 Block (11:48 a.m.)

A resident called police to report sevThe Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

eral vehicles parked illegally near the “hairpin turn” on Valle Road. The caller believed the vehicles might be parking there and walking to a local community event.

called police a second time after the woman returned and was once again refusing to leave the lobby. The woman was not a guest at the hotel and was believed to be a transient.

MISSING ADULT Rancho Viejo Road, 31400 Block (11:24 a.m.) A treatment center called police to report two missing adults who were last seen Friday, September 7. The employees reported neither person was a high-risk patient and there was no reason to believe either person would harm themselves.

Friday, September 7

DISTURBANCE-MECHANICAL Via Del Rey, 25600 Block (9:45 a.m.)

A patrol check was requested for the area of Via del Rey for a person using a very loud sandblaster. The caller stated the sandblaster could be heard over his television, which was already at a high volume.

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE Via Belardes, 31900 Block (9:09 p.m.)

A white Chevy pickup truck was seen parked “four feet away from the curb” in a red zone. The caller states several cars had nearly hit the truck and believed a traffic accident was imminent if the truck was not moved.

Saturday, September 8

VANDALISM REPORT Paseo Amapola, 31100 Block (6:44 p.m.) A resident called police to report graffiti on the wall next to the green parking zone. The caller could not see any suspicious persons in the area.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32300 Block (10:19p.m.)

A patrol check was requested for a group of several juveniles near the back of a building in a verbal argument. The caller stated the juveniles were yelling at each other and slamming car doors.

TRESPASSING Blue Fin Drive/Del Obispo Street (10:06 p.m.) Two males and two females were witnessed climbing the fence into a community pool area. The caller said the group did not live in the community and believed the group had vandalized the area.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Verdugo Street, 26700 Block (7:32 p.m.)

Metrolink employees called police to request assistance in removing a man who had boarded the train without a ticket. The man became aggressive with conductors after failing to produce a valid ticket when asked to do so.

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE Imperial Drive, 29900 Block (6:59 p.m.)

A black Ford Excursion was seen parked facing the wrong direction and very far from the curb. The caller reported the car was partially blocking the far right traffic lane.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Ortega Highway/La Novia Avenue (3:16 p.m.) A black Dodge Charger was reported stalled at the intersection of La Novia Avenue and Ortega Highway. The driver of the car was on his cell phone with a local towing company at the time the report was received.

TRESPASSING Ortega Highway, 27100 Block (7:34 a.m.) A woman, who earlier in the morning had been asked to leave, had returned to a local hotel. At approximately 2:19 a.m., hotel employees called police to remove a heavily intoxicated woman from their lobby. Employees

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Ricardo/Peppertree Bend (8:51 a.m.) A patrol check was requested to find a woman in her 40s driving a golf cart with two dogs running next to her.

The caller said the woman drives by every night with her dogs off the leash and allows them to go to the bathroom in his garden.

SHOTS HEARD Via de Linda, 31800 Block (1:31 a.m.)

Several local residents heard six gunshots. The reports gave several different locations for the origin of the shots.

A patrol check revealed several juveniles playing with fireworks in the area.

Tuesday, September 4 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Paseo Lomita, 27200 Block (10:40 p.m.)

An elderly woman called police after an unknown person rang her doorbell. The woman said she lived alone and kept her front gate locked at all times. She was unaware of any visitors that day and believed her house may be a target for a break in.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32200 Block (5:57 p.m.)

A man called police after he witnessed a boy from his neighborhood throwing rocks at his daughter and other residents.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 31800 Block (5:54 p.m.) Three juveniles were seen loitering in front of a local business. The caller told dispatchers the boys had been sitting in front of the business for almost three hours and one boy, who had a scooter, was sliding his scooter along the parking blocks, causing damage.

9-1-1 HANGUPS Camino Capistrano, 31400 Block (5:04 p.m.) Police dispatch received several 9-1-1 calls from a payphone. Shortly after the calls connected, the connection was dropped. No voices were heard and the payphone did not accept incoming calls.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Camino del Vista, 26500 Block (10:05 a.m.) A tree branch had fallen from a tree and struck several cars driving along the street. The caller was unsure if any of the people involved were injured but could see the windshield of one car was broken out entirely.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-NON-INJURY Calle San Francisco, 26500 Block (12:06 a.m.) A call to police was received after a car driving on Avenida De La Vista lost a wheel. The caller stated the front passenger side tire of the vehicle came loose from the car and continued down the street before coming to a rest along the curb. Preferred Towing was en route at the time of the call.

Monday, September 3

Thursday, September 6

Wednesday, September 5 FRAUD REPORT Paseo Espada, 27200 Block (6:55 p.m.)

Police were called to the residence of a man who wished to file a bank fraud report after a significant amount of money was withdrawn from his bank account without his permission.

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RECKLESS DRIVING Calle Belmonte/Calle Villa Clara (9:09 p.m.) A white Mercedes-Benz was spotted driving up and down Calle Villa Clara with no headlights on. The car was also seen swerving violently “all over the road.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE San Juan Creek Road/Camino Capistrano (11:35 a.m.) A woman called police from the public storage facility after a large grey truck with two males inside followed her into the storage facility. The woman said she put in the gate code for entry and the truck followed her through the gates before the gate closed. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

City Council Candidates Weigh-in on Traffic Issues The Capistrano Dispatch

We asked the candidates:

T

raffic has always been a point of contention in San Juan Capistrano.

Do you support the quiet zone if it means the queue-cutter signals remain at the Del Obispo Street railroad crossing or should the city abandon the quiet-zone effort and remove them?

Separately, should San Juan Creek Road be completed to La Pata? If elected, what would you do to improve overall traffic flow for San Juan Capistrano motorists?

Here are the candidates’ responses in the order in which their names will appear on the November ballot:

Sam Allevato

Councilmember/Retired Policeman

The quiet zones were requested by many residents because of the constant barrage of train whistles going off all day and night long. To that end, the Orange County Transportation Authority put in 50 enhanced safety railroad crossings across the county. Because the railroad tracks cross between two major streets, the queue-cutter signals were put in as a safety measure. I believe they have greatly enhanced safety, but have caused extra congestion. OCTA is committed to solve this issue and the issue of the “ghost trains,” which has existed for many years. The completion of the Del Obispo bridge widening will also greatly enhance mobility and safety. The “quiet zones” will be accepted when the insurance coverage is obtained.

I do not support San Juan Creek The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

An Orange County Transportation Authority construction crew installs safety modifications, including queue-cutter signals, at the Del Obispo Street railroad crossing in 2008. File photo

going through to La Pata as increased traffic would destroy that entire neighborhood bordering San Juan Creek, including Ambuehl School, Tar Farms Stables, Blenheim Farms, a church and homes.

I have worked for the completion of the 241 Tollroad, Cow Camp alternative to Ortega Highway, putting La Pata through to San Clemente and removing the “chokepoint” on Ortega Highway near the east city limits.

For additional on traffic solutions, please visit my website at friendsofsamallevato.com.

convenient back door for Ladera commuters. A “country lifestyle” doesn’t mean traffic lights at every intersection or turning our neighborhoods into a crazy quilt of highways. (I suggest our neighbors to the east avoid SJC roads when they’re in a hurry.)

I will always vote for a quaint, relaxed and affordable San Juan Capistrano. A quiet zone is a nice idea but not at the expense of an $8 million cost overrun. (Especially when whistles still blow nightly). Likewise, I oppose turning San Juan Creek Road into another high traffic thoroughfare.

Melissa Abbott-Kaffen

Ginny Kerr

Author, Blogger, Mother

San Juan Capistrano residents voted to spend $100 million for “open space” bonds to preserve a slow-paced, horsefriendly lifestyle, not to function as a

Planning Commissioner

I believe it is too soon to abandon the quiet zone effort. City staff is acPage 10

tively pursuing a solution to the “ghost trains” and a contract has been issued to synchronize lights along Del Obispo from Ortega Highway to Dana Point.

It would be premature to remove the quiet zone improvements until we can weigh the effects of the completion of the bridge-widening project and better synchronization on the traffic in this area.

San Juan Creek Road should not be completed to La Pata. This would necessitate cutting through the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park which is zoned as Open Space — a designation that cannot be changed without a vote of the residents. While there is currently an easement that runs between Blenheim Farm and homes on the other side of San Juan Creek, this area should be gated and used for emergency access only.

Traffic can be improved in our city by completing the extension of La Pata to take traffic generated outside our city around rather than through.

Traffic along Junipero Serra and Rancho Viejo Road will see improvements within the next few months and future projects will include improved interchanges at Camino Capistrano/ San Juan Creek and Valle/I-5.

(Cont. on page 12) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 10)

Kim McCarthy Newsletter Editor

I support the quiet zone without the queue-cutter signals at the Del Obispo railroad crossing. The crossing had a 100 percent safety record prior to this million-dollar mistake by our city that has done nothing but contribute to our traffic nightmares.

The completion of San Juan Creek Road to La Pata would alleviate traffic on Ortega Highway yet cause another problem by diverting the traffic to San Juan Creek Road. My approach would be to have workshops involving residents to get their input while reviewing traffic studies and weighing the pros and cons. The goal would be to find a solution that benefits all, rather than create another problem.

To improve overall traffic flow I would set up workshops to involve residents.

I would fix the self-inflicted city debacle at the intersection of Rancho Viejo Road and Junipero Serra Road with solutions already submitted by residents to the city. I would also begin working with Caltrans to add an off-ramp for Interstate 5 at Stonehill Drive to divert Dana Point and other traffic away from downtown.

The residents of San Juan are its best consultants and it is time they are listened to!

Tom Marantz

Technology Administrator

end the ghost train. This will lead to safer intersections, save all of us time, money, and gas.

I would not support the extension of San Juan Creek Road to La Pata. This plan would mainly work to the benefit of Ladera and RMV Sendero residents and as a result, I believe this extension would create more traffic than actually ease traffic. San Juan Creek Road needs to be left alone so we do not ruin these iconic surrounding neighborhoods.

As a councilmember, I would avoid wasteful traffic projects that create more congestion like Junipero Serra-Rancho Viejo crossroads and the queue-cutter.

We have major residential developments in the east and the I-5 and 74 Interchange Project! Traffic is going to be a mess these next few years and we need a councilman that will “get out of the way” of traffic. I’m that person.

Roy L. Byrnes

The queue-cutter and quiet zone are two separate issues. The queue-cutter has got to go as it stands now. As stated

by OCTA’s Darrell Johnson at the April council meeting, these lights are not required for a quiet zone. Vote for me and I will dedicate myself to ending this problem expeditiously. Free up traffic,

Retired Physician/Surgeon I support a quiet zone. However, I cannot support a quiet zone if it includes a traffic signal at the Del Obispo railroad crossing. The Del Obispo crossing has a 100 percent safety record. A traffic signal at that crossing is not needed and does not make sense.

The necessity for insurance protection

is the chief obstacle blocking a quiet zone. City staff has not found a cost effective policy so far.

I do not believe San Juan Creek Road can be extended any further east than where the road ends currently.

Any extension of San Juan Creek Road east would extend into our open space and legal clearance after review of the original purchase agreement would be required.

Plans always look good on paper for traffic flow. Before we start making changes, let’s see how the traffic flow is once the San Juan Creek underpass is completed and the Ortega Highway interchange is completed. These projects will precipitate a change in driving habits. Let’s see what traffic looks like when it is completed. We should also consider a southbound I-5 connection at Stonehill Drive. CD

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

HOW TO REACH US CITY REPORTER STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

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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 17. 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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SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Kevin Dahlgren, Darian Nourian, Tawnee Prazak

Letters to the Community WHY I WON’T VOTE FOR SAM ALLEVATO —Jack Chestek, San Juan Capistrano San Juan Capistrano needs councilmembers who can represent a wide cross section of residents. Sam Allevato does not meet this requirement. I believe all Sam cares about is the ranch. It appears to me that Sam’s interests are more on the side of developers rather than the residents.

Sam voted against the Planning Commission and the County of Orange to give a developer what they wanted along La Novia last year. Sam can’t accept opposing views from residents like me and Dr. Byrnes any longer.

He runs and hides inside the walls of City Hall. Sam has become complacent and needs to retire after a lifetime of living off tax payers. Sam really doesn’t understand the first thing about the distribution of water in this town. I believe water is one of the major revenue sources in town. Sam should know something about water after nine years but he doesn’t. Sam really doesn’t understand the finances of running this town. Sam told me in 2011 there was no problem with the city floating in $144 million of red ink. When I asked him this year if he was troubled with our town drowning in $200 to $300 million in red ink, I got no reply.

I think he is still trying to figure out my five pages of numbers I sent him three months ago. Sam is a justification for term limits. It’s okay for other residents to be council members.

Sorry Sam; you need to step aside and let voters find a council member who is not a justification for term limits.

You had a good run at it. Now, it’s okay to retire. Thanks. Respectfully, Jack Chestek.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

PROPERTY THAT WE CAN’T USE —Kristine L. Brooks, San Juan Capistrano I am going on my 15th year as a resident in San Juan Capistrano. Much of my love for the community that my family lives in is the connection with its equestrian heritage. In fact, the city of San Juan Capistrano promotes itself as the “Equestrian Capital of the West Coast.”

In my “equestrian circle,” we typically ride in the western events both for fun and as competitors. These events include horsemanship, trail, western pleasure, western riding and various halter and conformation classes. In addition, many of us in this community compete at the various breed shows, most notably, the American Quarter Horse Association shows. Most of these shows are held in Burbank, Northern California, San Diego or Riverside counties or out of state. Competition is a year-long process, culminating with a World Championship Show in either Oklahoma City or Amarillo. So, imagine my delight when I heard that the city of San Juan Capistrano had purchased what is now known as the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park and that it would be available to the citizens of our community for equestrian events.

The park is centrally located between Los Angeles, San Diego and Riverside counties. The climate is spectacular — not too hot as some of our venues can be. San Juan Capistrano also now has a new Residence Inn, which adds to the number of overnight options for out-of-town exhibitors. Now, imagine my disappointment when our various associations are essentially “squeezed” out of any opportunity to use what is supposedly a public-owned facility.

I have yet to see what, exactly, has

changed since the city purchased the land. That is, it appears that the same types of events are still held there, with the same management, and with the same inability to allow other associations to use any of the facility. From what I understand, it is impossible to either book a date as the calendar is “already booked” for those dates, or the cost associated with the use of the facility is so substantial that the smaller, westernfocused associations cannot afford to use those facilities and the services that are required by the facility manager to be used. The associations that I compete with do not raise the same amount of revenue as some of the Grand Prix events that currently usurp most of the calendar for the facility. I understand that. After all, there is a cost associated with maintaining this wonderful facility, and revenue is a priority. But I would urge the city to ensure that the management of the facility is creating the opportunity for smaller associations to utilize the grounds to promote western events and shows.

Many of the youth in our community are western riders and do not even have the ability to show or compete in their own backyard, which houses such a spectacular facility. There are many weekends that I drive by the park and there are no events. Wouldn’t some revenue be better than no revenue?

With all this said, I do believe that the management of the facility does an outstanding job of creating and maintaining a wonderful show grounds. I just wish I could use it. Lastly, I could be wrong in all of this, but I don’t think so.

I don’t think that the city has taken all steps possible to promote the growth of the western equine competition in its own town. I believe that the city has handed over the park to the current

Page 19

management and has left it at that. I would encourage the city to reach out and work with the various local horse show associations, such as Pacific Coast Quarter Horse Association, Southern California Professional Horse Show Association and Pacific Coast Horse Show Association, to promote events in this remarkable community. And who knows, the city might just make an extra buck or two. Pun intended.

CITY SHOULD SUPPORT ZOOMARS DINOSAUR —Wayne Schrimp, San Juan Capistrano Illegal dinosaur — where is the proof?

I am amazed to see that Ms. Franks is continuing to do whatever the city wants her to in order to keep Juan the dinosaur. It is still mind boggling that Ms. Franks has to jump through all of these hoops for the city and spend the small fortune she has for studies and approvals, when not one person from the city has been able to show a single statute that has been violated! Ms. Franks has gone over and above what has been asked of her in this process and continues to do so.

However, if I was in this position, I would dig in my heels and say to the city go ahead and fine me, and then if they did, I would take them to court and sue them. Not one law or statute has been broken, so where is the problem?

I also ask why must she go through this approval process? Process for what? To put a statue on her businesses property?

The dinosaur is not a structure. It is a large statue. A structure by its definition is a “body or assemblage of bodies in a space to form a system capable of supporting loads.” The dinosaur is a statue — by definition “a three-dimensional (Cont. on page 21) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 19) work of art” — and as such, Zoomars has the right to display it on their own property and should be protected by the First Amendment! Granted it is large, but it is in the place where a playground structure once stood, and I believe it was about the same height, possibly even shorter. It stands proudly under the tree line. It cannot be seen easily from anywhere other than River Street, and it blends very well with the surrounding trees and structures. It is not a purple or brightly-colored dinosaur. I can see where that might be offensive to some, but it is an accurate model of a prehistoric creature meant to educate and inspire.

With each passing day, the rhetoric that comes from the few that want to see it go changes. They cannot grasp one single reason for their stance. First it is not historical, then it is too historical, then it’s about the process, then it is something else. Make up your minds.

Just because a few people don’t like the way it looks, does not mean it does not belong there. There just seems to be a lot of politics at play here that no one will admit too. It has been obvious from the beginning that a majority of the residents like the dinosaur or do not mind it at all — even the Rios family has stood behind it. So why are just a few negative

NORTHERN PARTS OF THE CITY NEED REPAIR

by Saddleback Church, that the homes against the hills are destroyed and in ruins. Why don’t they just take a tractor and send them to the ground? It really is an eye sore and not a very good picture of our northern part of the city.

It’s not like Saddleback Church has a cash flow problem. Do you think—and continue down Camino Capistrano going south and you come to where the Smith house once stood—someone had a dream to level this home and orchard and build several homes? Well, only one home was built, but if you look closely, the property around that home is also in need of weed abatement, as well as a good cleaning and clearing of all the junk that is lying around. It does not look good and especially next to the Williams and the Swanner homes, which if I remember correctly might be on the Historic Register of California homes. Just wanted to know how you can get the city to step up and make it happen. Do they not care?

—Joanna Smith Brown, San Juan Capistrano What will it take for the city of San Juan Capistrano to have a few sites and areas of concern cleaned up? It is a shame that when you drive along Camino Capistrano and you look at the once beautiful ranch that belonged at one time to the Bathgate family, now owned

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@ thecapistranodispatch.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

The dinosaur replica at Zoomars Petting Zoo. Photo by Brian Park

voices being able to push their agenda?

The last I looked, we were a democracy where the majority rules, not a monarchy. The opinions of all the people that reside in this city should matter, not just a few that claim historical heritage.

Even if the city was to find some statute that was violated (which they still have not done), the city has no problem giving some businesses special accommodations, such as the special signage regulations passed for the car dealerships. Other than the Mission, Zoomars is the largest draw to this community, bringing families to San Juan from all

over Southern California and beyond.

The city needs to acknowledge that and put this issue to rest once and for all.

GETTING OUT

YOUR TWO-WEEK EVENT PLANNER

THE LIST

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

friday

ROMANCE OF THE MISSION BENEFIT GALA CONCERT AND DINNER 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Mission San Juan Capistrano’s annual benefit gala concert and dinner presented by the Mission Preservation Foundation. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, missionsjc.com.

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AN EVENING OF M*A*S*H 7:30 p.m. Saddleback College presents its professional guest artist series with a visit from Klinger and Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan of M*A*S*H in McKinney Theatre. $32. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, saddleback.edu.

saturday

SECOND SATURDAY ART FAIR 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The San Juan Chamber presents the monthly outdoor art event showcasing 60 artists, craftspeople and musicians along the streets of Camino Capistrano, Yorba, Verdugo and Los Rios.

949.493.4700, sjcartfair.org.

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LIVE MUSIC AT SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

Family Style performs; 8:30 p.m. Brant Vogel on stage at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, swallowsinn.com.

OC BANDSTAND 11 a.m. Special day concert at The Coach House. Tickets $12. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, thecoachhouse.com.

sunday

WINE TASTING DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION FUNDRAISER 4:30 p.m.-8 p.m.

Special dinner event and auction at Iva Lee’s to honor our fallen heroes. Cost $125. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, ivalees.com.

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LOS FABULOCUS 2:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, swallowsinn.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

AT THE MOVIES: ‘THE WORDS’ IS UNDERWHELMING A local OC movie viewer recently commented that CBS Films’ The Words is “like Inception for writers.’ These may be the most amusing, yet fitting, two words to describe Brian Klugman and Lee Sternthal’s new all-star ensemble feature. Starring Bradley Cooper, Jeremy Irons, Dennis Quaid, Ben Barnes, J.K. Simmons, Zoë Saldana, Nora Arnezeder and Olivia Wilde, The Words certainly has enough star power to garner audiences, but can Klugman and Sternthal’s ‘words’ live up to their onscreen talent? The Words is full of people always connected to writing and reading, with three interlocking stories set in New York City and Paris. The first features a middle-aged author (Quaid) giving a lecture on his latest book to graduate students. The second features a struggling nov© CBS Films elist (Cooper) trying to become published and discovering a lost manuscript of short stories written 50 years ago, which leads to the third story of a soldier (Barnes) living in Paris, who marries a French waitress (Arnezeder) before tragedy strikes. The Words includes some fine performances from Cooper and, particularly, Barnes, but the women of the film (Saldana and Wilde) are underdeveloped and lack any real importance to the story other than to be at Cooper’s and Quaid’s side. Though the questions are all brought together in the end, it’s hard not to notice some of the sappy dialogue for the love scenes and a few plot holes in the many storylines. —Megan Bianco

LUNCH LOCAL 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Chamber lunch at Ruby’s. 31781 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.4700, sanjuanchamber.com.

tuesday

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CHERYL SILVERSTEIN & TIM REID JR. 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Jazz vocals and more at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, renaissance-danapoint.com.

wednesday

SAN JUAN SUMMER NITES 6 p.m. The final outdoor concert series and business expo of the season at Historic Town Center Park featuring country-western music by Raining Horseshoes. Free admission. 31806 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5911, sanjuancapistrano.org.

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thursday

INTERNATIONAL WINE TASTING 5 p.m.-7:30 p.m. The Women’s Council of Realtors of South OC present a wine tasting event at Sarducci’s Capistrano Depot. Admission $30, includes wine and dinner. Reserve online. Benefits Boys & Girls Club. 2601 Verdugo, San Juan Capistrano, wcrsoc.org.

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friday

21

DAVE ALVIN AND THE GUILTY ONES 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. $15.

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

JOHN SOLONE SINATRA TRIBUTE 7:45 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Vintage Steak House. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3400, thevintagesteakhouse.com.

saturday

JAZZ, JAZZ, JAZZ 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Casa Romantica’s fall exhibition “Jazz, Jazz, Jazz” opens to the public.

Exhibit features 130 photographs in two collections, The Fine Art of Jazz and Portraits from the Golden Age of Jazz. Runs through Oct. 20. $5. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, casaromantica.org.

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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. Every Sunday. $2 adults, $1 children. 949.493.8444, sjchistoricalsociety.com.

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KNITLIT BOOK GROUP 6 p.m. The Knitting Book Group meets at the library. Bring your knitting or other craft project and discuss the book “”The Painted Veil”” by W. Somerset Maugham. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, ocpl.org.

tuesday

25

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME 11:15 a.m. Children ages 3-6 and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs, crafts and fun. No registration is required. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, ocpl.org.

wednesday

MICROBREWS BY THE MISSION 4 p.m.-8 p.m.

Enjoy microbrews and food at local downtown San Juan Capistrano venues on the last Wednesday of every month. More info: 949.493.4700, sanjuanchamber.com.

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

thursday

SINGLES 50+ HARBOR AND COASTAL CRUISE 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Special cruise for singles 50+ hosted by Tutor and Spunky’s Tom Blake and Dana Wharf. Married couples also welcome. Cost $24. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, danawharf.com, tutorandspunkys.com.

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

Have an event?

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

SJC LIVING

4

LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Saturday 9.15

Tuesday 9.18

Friday 9.21

Creek Cleanup Event 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. The city is taking part in a statewide effort to clean up beaches and inland waterways. Volunteers will wear gloves and be given bags to remove trash and debris from local creeks. Sign-ups will take place at Los Rios Park, 31790 Paseo Adelanto. A waiver form is required and available at sanjuancapistrano.org. The San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club will provide lunch after the event.

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

Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues, hosted by Jonathan Volzke. Occurs every Friday. El Adobe Restaurant, 31891 Camino Capistrano.

Wednesday 9.19 San Juan Summer Nites Concert 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Live music, dancing, food, a youth activity area and a beer and wine wagon for adults.

Admission is free. Historic Town Center Park, 31806 El Camino Real.

Tuesday 9.25 Planning Commission 6:30 p.m.

City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

Next regular issue of The Dispatch publishes September 28.

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50: Tom Blake

Many Singles Over 50 Find Success in Internet Dating I nternet dating often gets a bad rap from singles age 50 and over. However, lots of seniors have had success using it.

In January 2009, Glen, a resident of Ventura County, hadn’t had a date with anyone other than his ex-wife for 25 years. He joined Chemistry.com, an Internet dating site, and eventually met Cheryl, who lived in Orange County.

Glen said, “The Internet serves as a valuable tool in that you can cast your net to a much wider audience. Without it, I doubt I would have ever found Cheryl. I was fortunate to have the freedom to move to OC, which allowed our relationship to continue to grow.

“I still pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming! We’ve been together for over two years and are the happiest we’ve ever been.”

Ruth said, “I am 76. My husband died in 2002. Last year, I met the man of my dreams on Match.com. Dating online isn’t easy, but if you work at it, and use common sense, you can be successful.

“If the one you are looking for is one in 100, you have to be in touch with 99 people before meeting that person.

When one doesn’t work out, think of it as being one person closer to going through all 99. I kept a spreadsheet of everyone to whom I had written so I wouldn’t contact the same person twice.

“Put in a half hour a day if you can.

Keep a positive attitude and maintain your sense of humor.”

Sandra, 51, emailed, “I was encouraged three years ago by my sister to try an Internet dating site. I wrote the bio and completed the personality tests.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

Then I got cold feet. I did not pay the fee so I forgot about it.

“Seven months ago, I received a notification from the dating site that I had an email. I figured it was a promotion. I ON LIFE AND went to the site and was LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake able to log on—it was a free communication day unbeknownst to me. The email was a smiley face from Stephen.

“I read Stephen’s bio and we seemed to have common interests. We corresponded for a month prior to meeting for dinner. There were no fireworks. But we had enough working for us to go to a concert the following weekend.

“Seven months later, we have a relationship with a strong foundation built on love, laughter and patience. Internet dating enables you to find people you might never meet any other way—even if you don’t know you are participating.”

Charli shared, “September 9 was Richard’s and my first anniversary of meeting online. This adventure in our lives has been amazing; and me, the woman who decided I was going to be alone at 73! Women shouldn’t give up on being with someone special; hang in, it will happen.”

Jo stated, “Two months ago, I met Bob on Zoosk, an Internet dating site.

He is a widower of six years, myself divorced for 10. We chatted a couple weeks, then, met for dinner. I had no expectations. Bob and I are extremely happy—and while it is still new, what seems to be developing between us

made that ‘one more try’ worth it.

“It’s like that inspirational story, 212 Degrees. If you stop boiling water at 211 degrees, the water doesn’t boil. You may just miss something wonderful in life by giving up just a degree too soon.”

Page 24

Tom Blake is a San Clemente resident and Dana Point business owner who has authored three books on middle-aged dating. For dating information: www.

FindingLoveAfter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

JSerra Sophomore Raises Funds and Awareness for Safe Water

By Brian Park The Capistrano Dispatch

C

arter Jimenez Jenkins is not your average high school sophomore.

Jimenez Jenkins, a student at JSerra Catholic High School, is the founder of Students for Safe Water, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing potable water sources and waste water systems to developing countries.

Since the organization was founded in 2010, Jimenez Jenkins has employed the help of his family, friends, local students and businesses to raise more than $34,000 for safe water systems around the world. The organization recently raised $5,000 to donate a well to a village in Honduras and this year, Jimenez Jenkins traveled to Nicaragua to help install 22 “double-pit” latrines in the village of Petaquilla.

Jimenez Jenkins was inspired to start the organization as an eighth-grader after stumbling upon a YouTube video of children drinking contaminated water in third-world nations.

“It really just touched my heart and I felt like I had to do something, so I started researching it,” Jimenez Jenkins said.

The organization began with small charitable events like garage sales and collection drives, but it has grown quickly since Jimenez Jenkins began reaching out to local high school students for assistance. His mother, Jeffrie Jimenez Jenkins, has also helped by registering Students for Safe Water as a nonprofit and by reaching out to businesses. This year, the organization expects to receive a $20,000 matching donation from Pepsi.

“I’ve never done anything like this either,” Jeffrie Jimenez Jenkins said.

“But once we got one (donation), it got easier to get the next one. It kind of just snowballed.”

On Saturday, September 15, Carter Jimenez Jenkins will be a guest speaker at the TEDx youth conference in Redmond, Wash. to talk about Students For Safe Water. From there, he and his mother will travel to Philadelphia, for an unrelated cause, to accept a $1,000 scholarship for his winning submis-

Carter Jimenez Jenkins spends some time with children from the village of Petaquilla in Nicaraga.

Courtesy photo

sion in the 2012 American National Tree essay contest. His essay about former First Lady Betty Ford will be permanently added to the Constitution Center’s popular exhibit, “The Story of We the People.”

As far as what the future holds, Jimenez Jenkins hopes to make philanthropy a permanent part of his life.

“My personal goal is to become an entrepreneur and have my own social enterprise business,” Jimenez Jenkins said.

“He’s only 15 and he’s got the same problems as any 15-year-old,” Jeffrie Jimenez Jenkins added. “I hope that he’ll continue if it’s something that he wants to do. He has a really good heart.” CD

San Juan Capistrano Resident and Noted Volunteer Passes Away at 55

By Brian Park The Capistrano Dispatch

P

aul McClain, a San Juan Capistrano resident whose family and friends say dismissed the reward of public limelight for his many altruistic endeavors, died Wednesday, August 29 of a heart attack. He was 55.

McClain was a Vietnam War veteran and retired corporal in the U.S. Marines.

His devotion to service extended beyond his time in the military, however, as his natural impulse to help others guided his professional and personal life.

McClain spent the past 15 years as a tow truck driver in San Juan Capistrano — a fortuitous career choice that allowed him to practice his passion for fixing automobiles and his desire to help people, be it friends or strangers.

“Paul is the kind of friend that everybody would want to have because you knew you could count on him,” said friend Clint Worthington. “He had a great desire to help, and I think that’s why he loved being a tow truck driver.

He liked helping people in the worst of times.”

The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

Worthington recalls the first time he met McClain was in 1992, when he owned a video store and McClain, a regular customer, shared with him his interest in becoming a volunteer firefighter in San Juan Capistrano. That’s when the two became friends, said Worthington, who was roommates with McClain for 10 years.

They both joined the volunteer firefighter service and served together for nine years in loca Fire Station 7.

“He just wanted to give his time to the city,” Worthington said. “He had no desire to become a career firefighter. His love was for the city.”

During a 2002 social gathering at the Outrigger in San Clemente, McClain met his future wife Jessica McClain, daughter of former San Juan Capistrano Mayor Gil Jones. The pair quickly struck up a conversation about San Juan Capistrano, their love for horses and McClain also shared his affinity for cruiser motorcycles.

“We had a lot in common, but I told him I had never been on the back of a bike, so he invited me for a ride that next Saturday to Cook’s Corner (a popular motorcycle bar in Trabuco Canyon),” Jessica McClain said. “He was very outgoing — that’s just

the way his demeanor was. He could be best friends with anybody, and his friends, when they’re close to him, were like his brothers and family.”

The two continued to see each other for seven years and were married on December 10, 2009. They have a son, Clayton, who is now 2-years-old. McClain also had another son, Matthew, 30, from a previous relationship. Both children, Jessica McClain said, were the “loves of his life.”

“He adored his little baby, Clayton, and he and Matthew had a really strong bond. They both loved to talk about football and go fishing together,” Jessica McClain said. “He was an awesome father.

His main concern was his kids.”

Although McClain generally steered clear of the politics of City Hall, he was a familiar name and face at several city functions and events. McClain was also a regular at the Swallow’s Inn, where he enjoyed dancing and sharing a laugh with his friends.

“He loved to dance. He was always after anyone who wanted to dance and do the western two-step,” said friend Cory Toroian. “He loved to get a hold of Jessica

Page 26

Paul McClain. Courtesy photo

and twirl her until she was dizzy.”

A memorial service will be held for McClain at Riverside National Cemetery on Friday, September 14 at 10:30 a.m.

A Facebook page, “In Memory of Paul McClain,” has been set up for friends and family to share their thoughts. A plan is underway to establish a fund for McClain’s family. The Capistrano Dispatch will provide an update when that information is available. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Locals Only

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SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

ORANGEMAN TRIATHLON

Steve Breazeale

The bike portion of a triathlon is a and start the long, steep climb up the segment that can either make or break a historic winding highway. This portion of the bike ride will be the toughest part contestant. In this year’s Orangeman Triathlon, which takes place on September as it is almost entirely uphill. Once they reach La Pata Avenue they will turn 23, the bike portion will stretch almost entirely through San Juan Capistrano and around and essentially coast back down onto Ortega Highway. the hill along the same path.

Once the bicyclists complete the After contestants complete the 1.2mile swim at Doheny State Beach in 55.93-mile bike leg, they will find Caption: Triathlete Carly Johan competthemselves back at Doheny State Beach Dana Point, they will hop on their bikes ing in the bike portion of last year’s and start pedaling north on the San to take part in the 13-mile run segment Orangeman Triathlon. Courtesy photo Juan Creek Bike trail to the Interstate 5 of the triathlon, which stretches from underpass. They will be directed off the bike trail and onto the beach to Camino Capistrano by way of Pacific Coast Highway. The runners will have to complete three laps of Paseo Tirador before turning right on Calle Arroyo and La this segment before crossing the finish line. Foe more, see Novia Avenue.

From there, they will head towards Ortega Highway www.orangemantriathlon.com

100 Straight Wins and Counting

By Steve Breazeale The Capistrano Dispatch

O

n September 10 the St. Margaret’s Tartans girls tennis team defeated visiting Calvary Chapel 15-3 at the Rancho San Clemente Tennis Club for the program’s 100th consecutive match-win in a row. It’s a streak that dates back four years, four consecutive CIF-SS championships and dozens of players.

Tartans (4-0) assistant coach Rick Trager has been through it all with the team. As the former head coach, Trager saw the streak start at three back in 2008 and carry into 2012.

“The crazy thing about tennis is that anything can happen. It’s such an individual sport and to have this happen is remarkable,” Trager said.

Senior captain Zoe Oedekerk has been present for much of the streak and saw herself transform from a timid freshman to a confident captain. Oedekerk believes that team unity has been the Tartans’ biggest strength through-

out the years.

In between matches the Tartans continue a tradition of joining together to say a prayer and talk about what they can do to win the match at hand. Each player offers tips to their teammates, and the meeting is designed to boost morale as well as the team’s overall level of play, according to Oedekerk.

“I know everyone is really excited about this (100 straight wins) … We are so used to finding a way (to win) and I think that’s what I love about this team the most,” Oedekerk said.

“Knowing that everyone cares so much about this and cares for each other makes us want to win that much more and I think that is what helps us ultimately pull it out.”

There have been times when the win streak, and a shot at another CIF-SS Championship, was in jeopardy. Both Oedekerk and Trager recalled last year’s CIF-SS Division 3 Championship match against Sage Hill, when the Tartans needed to take the last four matches of the day to win another title.

The St. Margaret’s girls tennis team defeated Calvary Chapel 15-3 on September 10 for their 100th consecutive victory. Courtesy photo

Trager recalled the emotional moment when he told his team what the stakes were, saying the girls eyes were “glued” on him as he spoke. The girls went out and swept the last four matches and won the title by a slim, four-point margin.

Heading into the season, Trager felt it was time for him to take a backseat and lend more of a supporting role to the team. Now the win streak falls into the

hands of new head coach Chris Barker and this year’s Tartan squad, which has a promising mix of seniors and underclassmen.

“The streak shows the dedication the girls have here. They don’t go out there just to play another match … Hopefully they will want to keep continuing that winning tradition,” Barker said. “I hope we keep the streak going past 100 if we can.” CD

TARTANS TROUNCE LINFIELD CHRISTIAN IN HOME OPENER Darian Nourian

The Capistrano Dispatch

I

t was pretty apparent that one team was stronger than the other on Friday night at St. Margaret’s Episcopal, as the Tartans took down Linfield Christian 45-7 in a lop-sided affair.

The Tartans (2-0) were led by a stellar defense, anchored by senior defensive lineman Alex Waller, who racked up six sacks, including one forced fumble, which he recovered and took back 20 yards for the first touchdown of his Tartan career. Senior Winston Robinson The Capistrano Dispatch September 14–27, 2012

also added two sacks to give the Tartan defense a total of eight on the night. Senior Scott McGowan added an interception as well to further contribute to the defense’s superb night.

“I thought the defense played exceptionally well tonight”, Waller said. “I felt like I had an advantage with my matchup all night and that allowed me to use my speed to get by him and get to their quarterback.”

The Tartans were effective on the offensive side of the ball as well, led by junior quarterback Josh Davis who completed 6 out of 14 passes for 113

yards and two touchdowns. He also did some work on the ground, rushing for 30 yards and a touchdown.

Also contributing to the Tartan offense was sophomore Oscar Gomez, a Mater Dei transfer, who rushed for 79 yards and a touchdown.

After taking an early 17-0 lead, Davis took over in the second quarter. He threw two touchdown strikes, one to sophomore Fernando Delgado from eight yards out, and the other to senior Harrison White from three yards out to give the Tartans a 31-0 lead at halftime.

Senior Chase McClure had a big 45Page 30

yard punt return for a touchdown in the third and Davis sealed the game with a five-yard touchdown run to give them a 45-0 lead.

“I was really happy with our team’s performance tonight”, St. Margaret’s head coach Rod Baltau said. “I thought we came out fast and strong, but we let up a little with some mistakes towards the end that we are going to need to correct going into two tough games in the coming weeks.”

The Tartans seek to preserve their home win streak against Whittier Christian on September 14 at 7 p.m. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com