The Capistrano Dispatch

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OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE NOVEMBER 9–22, 2012 FOUNDED IN 2002

VOLUME 10, ISSUE 21

The Votes Are In Former mayor and incumbent Councilman return to the dais E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 5

San Juan Capistrano voters cast their ballots via electronic vote at the Del Obispo Terrace Senior Center. Photo by Kevin Dahlgren

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Ruptured Pipeline Forces San Juan Hills Lockdown

New Restaurants to Open at Marbella Plaza

San Juan Loses Native Son, ‘Ditty’ Nieblas

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 9

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 9

EYE ON SJC

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SAN CLEMENTE San Clemente voters reelected incumbent City Councilman Bob Baker and elected firefighter Chris Hamm to positions on the City Council Tuesday. The vote ousted fourterm Councilman Jim Dahl, who finished third in a field of six candidates. Attorney Mike Mortenson, retired businessman David Clegg and the second Robert “Bob” Baker, who dropped out in September, rounded out the bottom three. Hamm was the leading vote getter, by a little more than 1,000 votes.

The campaign had been a hard-fought one.

The candidates were largely divided into two camps: Baker and Hamm, who were backed largely by the same groups who opposed Measure A, against Dahl and Mortenson, who were endorsed by the Chamber of Commerce and supported by a number of city officials, including Mayor Jim Evert.

DANA POINT

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

Christopher Aragon, 52, of Capistrano Beach was sentenced October 26 to 25 years in jail after pleading guilty to 50 counts including identity theft, grand theft and counterfeiting credit cards to buy high-end goods, then resell them online. Aragon’s sentence includes two enhancements—property damage over $1 million and aggravated white-collar crime over $500,000, a statement from the Orange County District Attorney’s Office said. Aragon led a white-collar crime ring that operated between 2004 and 2007. His six co-defendants, all members of the ring, include his wife, Clara Aragon, 40, and San Juan Capistrano resident Nancy Diaz Silva, 30. Aragon’s accomplices in 2007 pleaded guilty to over 80 felony counts each and were handed sentences ranging from one year in jail with probation to up to seven years in jail.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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…Ruptured Gas Pipeline?

THE LATEST: San Juan Hills High School was temporarily locked down Tuesday, October 31, due to a fractured natural gas pipeline caused by a construction accident.

Construction crews digging near the intersection of La Pata Avenue and Ortega Highway struck the pipeline, causing an 8-inch fracture. Nearby traffic was immediately closed.

Officials from Southern California Gas Co., the owner of the pipeline, as well as those from fellow Sempra Energy utility company, San Diego Gas & Electric, were joined at the scene by police and fire officials to coordinate repairs and administer traffic control.

Traffic was eventually reopened and students and staff were released around 4 p.m., after utility workers shut off a nearby valve. The shutdown temporarily left the school and 16 homes without service, according to Southern California Gas spokesperson Angela Fentiman.

WHAT’S NEXT: Southern California Gas is investigating the cause of the accident.

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www. thecapistranodispatch.com. —BP

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…Fraudulent Campaign Email?

THE LATEST: An email and automated phone message sent to an unknown number of San Juan Capistrano residents last week rallying against newly elected City Councilman Roy Byrnes and fellow Capistrano Common sense candidate Kim McCarthy have sparked the pair’s ire over The Capistrano Dispatch November 9–22, 2012

what they call fraudulent accusations.

The email includes a November 1 Orange County Register article about the Fair Political Practices Commission’s investigation into alleged campaign violations committed by Capistrano Common Sense, the local watchdog group that supported Byrnes and McCarthy. However, the article includes an additional, unrelated headline that seems to mislead recipients: “State will investigate money laundering charges against Burns (sic) & McCarthy.”

The “robocall” includes a recording of former city councilman Wyatt Hart, who confirmed he recorded the message on behalf of Residents for Reform, a Newport Beach-based committee that also funded the email.

WHAT’S NEXT: Byrnes and McCarthy said they intend to file a formal complaint with the FPPC. McCarthy said they would also seek legal action.

Benumof, the group’s attorney, said.

The four-tiered rate structure is meant to encourage water conservation, but the lawsuit claims that charges for higher tiers “are a financial penalty intended to force conservation and are not a fee for service.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The county D.A.’s office also received the complaint and is currently reviewing it, according to Jaime Coulter, head of the special prosecutions unit.

FIND OUT MORE: To view the lawsuit, visit www.capotax.org. —BP

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —BP

THE LATEST: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission announced Tuesday that it would be meeting with officials from Southern California Edison November 16 to discuss the utility’s response to the NRC’s confirmatory action letter, which addressed the damage to the steam generator tubes at the plant.

Edison officials will give a technical presentation on how the company has gone about identifying steam generator tube wear, as well as the corrective actions it has taken. Unit 3 was shutdown in January after the discovery of a leak in a steam generator tube. Unit 2, which was already shut down for maintenance and refueling, was found to have unexpectedly high levels of tube wear after inspections.

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

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Connor alleges that Capistrano Common Sense and the Committee for Common Sense Solutions—an offshoot of the group that established a campaign website for Byrnes and McCarthy—violated the Political Reform Act because of their open advocacy for the two candidates, as well as for their solicitation of campaign violations, despite neither being registered as political action committees.

…Common Sense Investigation?

THE LATEST: The California Fair Political Practices Commission will look into San Juan Capistrano resident Ed Connor’s complaint alleging campaign violations committed by the local watchdog group Capistrano Common Sense, supporters of newly elected City Councilman Roy Byrnes and candidate Kim McCarthy.

In a form letter addressed to Connor on October 31, Gary Winuk, the chief of the commission’s enforcement division, confirmed the investigation but added that no determinations have been made.

…Water Lawsuit?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Taxpayers Association’s lawsuit alleging that the city’s tiered water-rate structure is in violation of state law has been amended and resubmitted, after the city filed a demurrer challenging the initial complaint.

The lawsuit claims the city’s rate structure violates Proposition 218, which requires rates to be relative to cost of service. 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 controversial Groundwater Recovery Plant, could be resolved by purchasing water elsewhere.

“The city said that there was nothing illegal with what they were doing, so we more narrowly clarified that the illegality is the illegal rate scheme,” Ben

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WHAT’S NEXT: The city has until November 18 to respond to the amended complaint.

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…Another SONGS Meeting?

WHAT’S NEXT: The meeting is open to the public and will be held at the Doubletree Guest Suites Doheny Beach in Dana Point. The seating capacity is set at 350.

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —Jim Shilander www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

A Return to the Dais for Byrnes and Allevato San Juan Capistrano voters welcome back the former mayor and incumbent Councilman

By Brian Park The Capistrano Dispatch

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fter nearly 40 years, a familiar face is set to rejoin the San Juan Capistrano City Council.

Former mayor Roy Byrnes, who previously served on the dais from 1972 to 1976, was elected Tuesday to fill one of two open seats on the five-member council. He is joined by incumbent Sam Allevato, who is set to begin his third four-year term after being appointed for one year in 2004.

Byrnes was the top vote-getter throughout the night, finishing with 4,970 votes, or 25.7 percent of the total.

“I’m gratified for the support of so many, and I sincerely thank the people who helped my efforts to communicate.

I certainly will try not to disappoint,” Byrnes said.

Initial numbers, which only included vote-by-mail results, gave the advantage to Byrnes and his campaign partner, Capistrano Common Sense editorial board member Kim McCarthy. The pair maintained their lead over rival candidates Allevato and Planning Commissioner Ginny Kerr, after the first unofficial poll results—taken from only two out of 24 precincts—were posted shortly after 9:30 p.m.

Although the Orange County Registrar of Voters planned to update results in 30-minute intervals, the candidates and San Juan Capistrano voters were left waiting for two hours before new numbers arrived. Shortly after 11:30 p.m., with 22 out of 24 precincts reporting, Allevato closed a 124-vote gap to leapfrog McCarthy for the coveted second position in the polls and took a 166-vote lead in the process.

“I was fairly confident that once the precincts came in that I would at least get into second, if not first,” Allevato said. “We were pretty confident we would hold onto (second place).”

Poll results from the remaining two precincts were added around midnight, but the candidates’ positions remained steady and Byrnes and Allevato came away victorious. The registrar’s office will continue to update numbers throughout the week, as provisional and absentee ballots are still being counted.

As of press time, Allevato finished with 4,295 votes, or 22.2 percent of the total.

He was followed closely by McCarthy with 4,018 votes, or 20.8 percent.

Kerr, despite raising the most campaign contributions, $36,754, of any candidate, finished fourth with 3,602 votes, or 18.6 percent. She and Allevato, who

The Capistrano Dispatch November 9-22, 2012

CITY COUNCIL VOTE TALLY (From the Orange County Registrar of Voters) All Precincts Reporting

Roy L. Byrnes Sam Allevato Kim McCarthy Ginny Kerr Tom Marantz Melissa Abbott-Kaffen

VOTE COUNT 4,970 4,295 4,018 3,602 1,245 1,206

raised $35,298, each raised far more individually than Byrnes and McCarthy did combined—$12,800.

“I am very gratified and encouraged by the support from the community, especially considering that nine-year incumbent Sam Allevato only got 280 votes more than I, despite very deep pockets from out-of-town interests and highly-paid political consultants behind him,” McCarthy said in a statement released Wednesday.

Kerr was unable to speak after the election due to a family emergency. She told The Dispatch in an email on election night, “I am thrilled that Sam is on the council for another four years and am incredibly grateful to the wonderful people who supported me.”

Political newcomer Tom Marantz, who was a relative unknown at the start of his campaign, finished with 1,245 votes, or 6.4 percent. Melissa AbbottKaffen, whose name still appeared on the ballot despite her late decision to withdraw to support Byrnes and McCarthy, finished with 1,206 votes.

Well before the majority of precincts reported their numbers, Marantz acknowledged that he faced unfavorable odds in climbing the polls. Reflecting back on the campaign, Marantz said the experience has inspired him to become more involved in city and community affairs.

“I’m invested,” Marantz said. “The biggest thing I learned is how great this town is. The people have been open to me. I’ve met folks on all sides of the issues, and I’m definitely open to all opportunities to serve.”

Moving Forward Election Day brought an end to what candidates and many residents called the most contentious campaign in recent memory.

For Allevato, who had been a target of the Capistrano Common Sense camp for more than a year, criticism was expectPage 5

PERCENTAGE 25.7% 22.2% 20.8% 18.6% 6.4% 6.2%

Left: Roy Byrnes. Right: Sam Allevato.

Courtesy photos

ed in a campaign against two candidates from the local watchdog group.

“They announced it to me that they were going to be coming after me over a year and a half ago. It’s how politics gets played, but I’m not deterred,” Allevato said. “I have people from all over this town who talk to me and support me.

(Capistrano Common Sense) are a small minority.”

In her statement, McCarthy offered a counterpoint, saying, “The fact that Dr. Byrnes and I got a combined total of 8,900 votes to Sam Allevato’s and Ginny Kerr’s 7,800 votes means that our message resonated with the majority of residents.”

Two formal complaints, including one investigation, with the California Fair Political Practices Commission came out of this year’s election season.

In late September, San Juan Capistrano resident Ed Connor filed a complaint against Capistrano Common Sense, alleging that they had committed campaign violations because their support for Byrnes and McCarthy did not preclude them from registering as a political action committee. The commission informed Connor last week that an investigation would begin.

Two days before the election, Byrnes and McCarthy issued a statement saying that they too had filed a complaint with the FPPC and would seek further legal action in response to a negative email sent to an unknown number of

San Juan Capistrano residents. The email contained an article from The Orange County Register with an additional, unrelated headline that seemed to mislead recipients by insinuating Byrnes and McCarthy had committed financial improprieties.

The email was sent by a Newport Beach-based committee with a loose connection to another committee, OCTaxPAC, which spent $4,765 for mailers supporting Allevato and Kerr. Both candidates denied any previous knowledge of the email or the mailers. They added that they have no control over independent groups and they did not support their actions.

“Ginny and I ran a very positive campaign,” Allevato said. “I don’t feel I’ve inflicted wounds on anybody. I’m open to reconciliation.”

The Council Dynamic Had Byrnes and McCarthy won both seats, they would have likely teamed with like-minded Councilman Derek Reeve, who is often the lone opposing vote in 4-1 council decisions on such issues as the city’s controversial Groundwater Recovery Plant and the city-owned Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park.

But with Allevato winning reelection, Byrnes and Reeve are likely to remain a minority.

“When you look at the makeup of the council, I don’t think it’s changed substantially,” Byrnes said. “(Councilwoman Laura Freese) is retiring and I’m going to be the replacement.”

Byrnes is set to join the council December 4. Before then, he says he will meet with City Manager Karen Brust to be briefed on the city’s most pressing and immediate issues.

And while he too believes the recent campaign was an especially divisive one, Byrnes said he would like to leave it in the past and begin building an amicable working relationship with his fellow councilmen.

“My focus is on the future. This contentious election has brought some issues to the forefront,” Byrnes said. “I’m just hoping the five of us get together with an attitude of mutual understanding and respect.”

When asked what he has learned from his years on the dais and how he foresees the new council working out, Allevato said, “You have to listen up to the last minute before you make your decision and final vote. A lot of it is about relationships and the respect that you show to other people.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

San Juan Capistrano Voters Elect Two New CUSD Trustees Hanacek and Reardon win their respective seats convincingly

students. It was respectful and positive,” Hanacek said of the campaign. She will take over for Jack Brick, who steps down after serving one term.

Meanwhile, in Trustee Area 2, which covers parts of San Juan Capistrano, Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch and Las Flores, San Juan Capistrano resident Jim Reardon came away with the victory over Carol McCormick and Don Franklin Richardson. Reardon will take over for Sue Palazzo.

Reardon finished with 7,295 votes, or 49.1 percent of the total votes cast.

However, he also pointed out that the number of under voters—voters who chose not to make a selection—exceeded his closest competitor McCormick, 4,592 to 3,567.

“We have to bring those people into the conversation also,” said Reardon, who also emphasized the importance of transparency on the board during his campaign. “I’m going to be the enemy of hidden agendas…We all have principles that we use to guide us, and I’ve tried to make mine clear to people.”

Reardon, who was endorsed by Hold CUSD Accountable, an opposing coalition to Children First, was frank in saying he fully expects to be part of a minority on the board.

“I’m not a union-endorsed candidate.

I’ve had my differences with them in the

past. But the union is a full partner with CUSD—the state legitimizes their presence,” Reardon said. “The majority is going to have to work with the teacher’s union to solve (this year’s budget). I’ll be constructive in that regard.”

Hanacek, when asked how she foresees the dynamics of the board playing out, said, “I’m not going to go into it with prejudiced notions. To say that I’m going to be a slam dunk with any of the other trustees is a disservice to them and myself.”

Elsewhere in the CUSD elections, Pritchard and Alpay won their reelection bids in their respective areas. Pritchard defeated William “Bill” Perkins, 7,252 votes to 5,057 votes. Alpay held off a spirited challenge from Steve Lang, 8,057 votes to 7,050. Yolanda McNamara, a third candidate who did not actively campaign, received 1,568 votes. CD

blocking a sidewalk. The caller described the vehicles as a white pick-up truck and a yellow sports car.

The caller was worried because a baby could be heard crying throughout the disagreement.

Thursday, November 1

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-NON INJURY Sundance Drive/Ortega Highway (2:41 p.m.) A man called police after witnessing a white Acura and a brown Ford truck collide. The caller believed one of the drivers may have been intoxicated.

After a field sobriety test, a 38-year-old man was taken to Central Mends Jail in Santa Ana on charges of drunk driving.

BURGLARY REPORT San Juan Creek Road, 32100 Block (1:06 p.m.) The owner of a white Ford pickup truck called police after returning to his car in the San Juan Hills Golf Course parking lot to find his it had been broken into. The man told deputies the break-in occurred in the four hours he was playing golf at the course.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Del Obispo Street/Paseo Adelanto (7:19 a.m.) A local resident called police after seeing that the traffic light at the intersection was not working properly.

City workers were performing routine maintenance on the lights and power was restored after a short delay.

Friday, November 2

Sunday, November 4

TRAFFIC HAZARD Camino Capistrano/Verdugo Street (1:05 p.m.) Several passersby reported the traffic signals were not cycling properly in all four directions. City officials were sent to fix the problem but upon their arrival, they were unable to find any malfunctioning lights.

By Brian Park and Jim Shilander The Capistrano Dispatch

T

wo new faces will join the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees, thanks in large part to San Juan Capistrano voters.

In Trustee Area 1, which covers parts of San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente, Capistrano Beach resident Amy Hanacek breezed to an easy victory over Karin Schnell, 9,600 votes to 4,579 votes.

Hanacek, along with President Gary Pritchard in Area 5 and Vice President John Alpay in Area 3, received endorsements from the district’s teachers union, as well as parent coalition Capistrano Unified Children First. “(Schnell) and I were both able to conduct a campaign that was able to focus on quality education for the

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter

Left: Amy Hanacek. Right: Jim Reardon.

Courtesy photos

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.

Tuesday, November 6 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Camino Capistrano/Oso Road (12:27 p.m.) An automobile accident was reported between two motorcycles. The caller could not see a second motorcycle, but two people were seen standing on the sidewalk. Orange County Fire Authority was dispatched to the scene to tend to any injuries sustained but was later cancelled while en route. It was determined that both people had been riding on the same motorcycle.

Monday, November 5 ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE Calle Delphina, 200 Block (6:33 p.m.)

Police received a report of two vehicles The Capistrano Dispatch November 9-22, 2012

DISTURBANCE Paseo Carolina, 32100 Block (6:14 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested after a caller saw a group of men standing in a group. The caller believed the group was passing around bottle of alcohol.

DRUNK DRIVING Avenida de la Vista/Calle San Diego (9:48 a.m.) A person driving a black Honda Accord was seen driving very erratically. The caller believed the driver may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Saturday, November 3 DISTURBANCE Calle La Purisima, 31500 Block (1:21 p.m.) A verbal argument was heard between a male and female in the apartment next to the caller’s residence.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street/Paseo Adelanto (12:48 a.m.) Police were asked to patrol check Los Rios Park after a large group of juveniles was heard in the park after hours. The caller was unable to see how many children were in the group but could tell that they were in the park.

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DISTURBANCE-FAMILY DISPUTE Shadybrook Road, 26300 Block (9:57 p.m.) An argument was reported between the caller’s neighbor and his teenage son. The caller did not believe the argument was in danger of becoming physical but was worried the teenager may try to run away as he has in the past.

PETTY THEFT REPORT Verdugo Street, 26700 Block (9:23 a.m.)

Police received a report of a bicycle that had been stolen from the San Juan Capistrano train station. The caller had left the bike there while he rode the train to Anaheim, but upon his return, he found the lock to his bike had been cut and the bike was gone.

PATROL CHECK Paseo Valencia, 31000 Block (6:13 a.m.)

A patrol check was requested for a possible broken water main flooding the streets. After determining the location of the leak, city workers were sent to the scene to fix the leaking water main.

Wednesday, October 31 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Oso Road/Avenida de la Vista (11:42 p.m.) A resident called police after a party that was shut down by officers earlier in the night and had become loud once again. The caller told dispatch that the teenagers had turned their loud music back on once deputies had left. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Business Beat

BY BRIAN PARK

News and updates on San Juan Capistrano’s business community

O

ver in Marbella Plaza, four new restaurants are expected to open—two within the next two weeks. South Coast Kitchen, The Olives Branch, Harlow’s and No No’s aim to provide a diverse selection of quality dining options that caters to the breakfast, lunch, dinner and after-hours crowds.

No No’s is the furthest from opening and will eventually take over the current location of The Hot Lunch Lady—now closed. The Dispatch spoke with the owners of the three other restaurants to check out what San Juan Capistrano should expect.

struction for a bar makes setting an exact date difficult. Once Harlow’s does open, Kingston expects to start by serving dinners between 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. then expand to include breakfast and lunch and champagne brunches on Sundays. For more information, visit www.harlowssjc. com or call 949.240.8100.

SOUTH COAST KITCHEN

THE OLIVES BRANCH Co-owners and father-and-son duo Bill and Omar Chmait have more than 30 years of combined experience in the restaurant business. They realized last year there weren’t many south Orange County options of their native food of Lebanon, which led to them starting The Olives Branch.

“Mediterranean cuisine with a Lebanese flair,” Omar Chmait said of his menu. “It’s organic, it’s healthy and it’s flavorful.”

The sit-down restaurant will feature light to heavy lunch and dinner options, such as hummus, dolmas, tabbouleh and kefir cheese—a Lebanese staple.

An interesting feature of the restaurant is an attached, outdoor lounge for hookah enthusiasts.

Omar Chmait says the restaurant plans to have a soft opening in a week and will officially open in two weeks. Lunch prices range from $8 to $12 while dinners cost between $15 and $25. The Olives Branch will be open between 10 a.m. and 12

The attached, outdoor hookah lounge at The Olives Branch in Marbella Plaza. Photo by Brian Park

a.m. during weekdays and until 2 a.m. on weekends.

HARLOW’S San Juan Capistrano resident Bonnie Harlow Kingston has been in the restaurant business for 23 years. With her latest endeavor, Harlow’s, Kingston hopes to offer her neighbors an eclectic menu with “global influences.” Part of the menu will also change seasonally, according to Kingston, depending on the availability of fresh ingredients.

“I eat extremely healthy, quality foods at home and if I would not bring something into the kitchen at my house, it certainly won’t be in the kitchen at my restaurant.”

Harlow’s Fine Cuisine and Crafted Cocktails will open sometime in the next several weeks in Marbella Plaza. Photo by Brian Park

Harlow’s will also feature an extensive wine list, local beers and a cocktail menu that’s a mix of prohibition-era drinks and contemporary recipes.

Kingston hopes to open the restaurant before the holidays, but pending con-

Owner and chef Justin Davis calls his first restaurant a “California spin on a Parisian café.” Davis is a classically trained French chef who has worked in the restaurant and catering business for the past decade. With South Coast Kitchen, he hopes to offer quick, high-quality meals with flavors that span the gamut of sweet and savory.

“For breakfast, we have what we call a ‘Bacon Butty,’ which is (Nueske’s slab) bacon, egg cheddar on a croissant with some HP sauce,” Davis said. Lunch items include cold and hot sandwiches, including a deep fried burrata (a type of cheese similar to mozzarella) sandwich that Davis simply called “decadent.”

South Coast Kitchen’s menu also features salads, fries, kids items, pastries and espresso. The menu is small as a matter of principle—quality over quantity.

“My philosophy is fresh, everything is handmade. I try to deal with local farms and I definitely choose sustainable options,” Davis said.

Main food items range between $4 and $12. South Coast Kitchen will have its grand opening Friday, November 9. Breakfast hours are 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.sc-kitchen.com or call 949.481.9596. CD

San Juan Leader ‘Ditty’ Nieblas Dies Family “patriarch” was champion of valley history

By Jim Shilander The Capistrano Dispatch

F

loyd Hugo “Ditty” Nieblas, a leader of one of San Juan Capistrano’s historical Juaneño families, former business manager at Mission San Juan Capistrano and a fount of the city’s and mission’s history, died November 3 after a long illness. He was 86.

Nieblas was raised in Las Rosas, where his mother ran a restaurant. He attended the Mission School and grew The Capistrano Dispatch November 9-22, 2012

to passionately love and tell the history of both his family and of the growth and history of the Capistrano Valley.

Son Jerry Nieblas, of the Capistrano Historical Alliance, said his father’s love of history, and their discussions about it, inspired him to become a champion of the city’s heritage and past. “(He was) the patriarch of our family and our history. He was our history book,” Jerry Nieblas said. “We used to have these talks. In his days, it was easier to embrace our history because

there were so many historical families left here in the valley. I’m still going to carry on my dad’s teachings and his way.”

Jerry Nieblas said his father, who largely eschewed local and tribal politics, wasn’t that way with his family—he never stopped trying to teach the family’s history and the history of the area. “My dad kept our history alive in our grandchildren. It’s interesting to see a new generation of our family coming up. He was very proud of his

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grandchildren—probably more in these last few years.”

A funeral mass will be held Friday at 10 a.m. in Serra Chapel with a traditional Capistrano funeral procession to the graveside. A rosary was said on his behalf Thursday at Serra Chapel.

Nieblas is survived by his wife, Mariruth; five children, 12 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; as well as a brother and half-sister. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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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 21. 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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Letters to the Community IN DEFENSE OF THE RANCH —Mechelle Lawrence-Adams, San Juan Capistrano Recent negative and inaccurate information about the folks at the Ranch have compelled me as a daughter of Orange County, as a community member and as a mother to speak up for what’s right and to share for the record what I believe.

First, the Ranch, under the leadership of the late Richard O’Neil, Tony Moiso and Gilbert Aguirre, has made San Juan Capistrano a better place for all of us in significant and measureable ways.

Those of us involved with the community know that without the individual qualities and leadership of Mr. O’Neil, Tony Moiso and Gilbert Aguirre (and all their Ranch family), this town would not be what it is today. The following is a sampling of what the Ranch has done for San Juan Capistrano in leadership capacities, financially and with their personal, individual talents: 1. Founded a local annual rodeo for all to enjoy and showcase our rich equestrian heritage.

2. Supported, invested and helped to establish the Boys and Girls Club, to enrich the children of this valley.

3. Supported and invested in The Shea Center—to serve the needs of many in amazing ways using equine therapy.

4. Served, supported and protected Mission San Juan Capistrano to be Orange County’s most important California landmark. The Mission just wouldn’t be what it is today without the Ranch.

5. The Historical Society—served and supported the society to make sure there is a group that can gather to celebrate and teach about local history to new generations.

6. El Adobe Restaurant—keeps a cultural iconic restaurant available as a The Capistrano Dispatch November 9–22, 2012

centerpiece to our wonderful array of restaurants and retail.

7. Mission Promenade—rehabilitated a failing corner commercial area to deliver a rich and varied retail, restaurant and local shopping experience.

8. Delivering a much needed dual purpose riding park that serves our local equestrian and soccer communities.

If the complainers are upset about what they think is a recent development proposal or threat to their commute, then they didn’t do their homework.

Land uses are planned long before they ever get developed.

We are fortunate that this team, in stewarding a long-range plan actually cares and wants to do so in a way that will still deliver thousands of acres of open space, has reduced its density and thus allowed traffic control over the years and worked to phase the effort.

Not all “developers” would do this. But these folks aren’t just developers; they are part of San Juan Capistrano’s history.

Anyone who’s enjoyed any of the eight items in the list above has benefitted from the Ranch. It’s time to say thank you, rather than to paint a picture of “big bad developer.” Publicly, it’s just time to say thank you Tony, Gilbert and the entire Ranch team.

CITY WATER SERVICE —Jack Chestek, San Juan Capistrano I’ve had it with my insane city water service. It has screwed the residents of San Juan Capistrano long enough. My water bill has gone up 300 percent in the past 10 years—that’s like 30 percent per year.

The water management of my town is crazy. By crazy I mean they are totally obsessed with blowing millions of dollars. Let me give you an example: the city’s water factory had caused City Hall

a debt of $8.2 million as of June 2012. At this time five months later, City Hall is ordering $3 million more in stuff to hang on its water factory. Make any sense? It makes sense to our mayor. Rather than paying down the city’s water debt, the mayor is taking $3 million in state grant funds and blowing it on his water factory.

The mayor looks at grant funds as free money because it didn’t come out of the pockets of residents, even though it really did.

Anyhow, what really troubles me is my water service management doesn’t know or doesn’t care about water service to city residents. Let’s take a look at some facts: It’s a fact: Our mayor told me he can’t see a need for more than one night of water storage in our town. This is very, very scary. Our mayor must believe his water factory is a reservoir. In this case a reservoir has to be a water treatment factory, which it’s not.

It’s a fact: Moulton Niguel takes its water from the exact same Metropolitan Water District pipeline as our water comes to us in. Moulton Niguel charges its customers a base rate of $1.38 per unit of water up to ten units, or $13.80 for 10 units. Ten units of water in my town costs $35.02.

Moulton Niguel also has a very large facility for treating water. Drive to the end of Camino Capistrano to see for yourself.

It’s a fact: My water management didn’t know or didn’t want to be responsible for figuring our present water rates, so it hired an outside firm to recommend our water rates. This was late in 2009.

The firm, Black and Veatch, recommended my water allotment be reduced by 33.3 percent, my water rate be increased and the city’s tiered rates be adjusted.

It’s a fact: City Hall is being sued for

Page 10

Black and Veatch’s recommendations on tiered water rates.

It’s a fact: Our water managers say our water rates are high because MWD has increased its cost of water over the past few years. Yeah, sure. How come Moulton Niguel didn’t notice the increase in MWD cost as much as my City Hall did?

It’s a fact (This is the best of all my facts): Recall I said one of management’s justifications for our high water rate was MWD higher costs. Well guess what our water management has recently decided to do? Raise MWD water delivery costs. This may come as a surprise to MWD but my City Hall reports it pays MWD $1,330 per acre foot for delivered water. This is ridiculous but it’s a perfect example of how my water managers think and operate.

It’s a fact: Within the past couple weeks our ground water cost went from being around $400 more than MWD to magically being around $200 less than MWD water. This practice can be called “cooking the books.” It can also be called lying and cheating. I call it crazy.

It’s a fact: Our City Hall wants to extend its Water Factory contract with San Juan Basin Authority (SJBA) from the year 2035 to 2060. This is a dumb idea.

I don’t know anything about running a water agency. However, I know right from wrong and I know when I’m getting screwed. My city’s water service has screwed me long enough and I have had it. This is as factual as I can be.

To read the full letter, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

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.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

09

JUSTIN FOUTZ 8:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

JOHN SOLONE FRANK 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, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

CARL VERHEYEN BAND 7:30 p.m. Critically-acclaimed musician and member of rock group Supertramp performs for the Lord of the Strings concert series at the Dana Point Community House. $25. 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point, 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

DAVINE WINE TASTING AND LIVE MUSIC 4 p.m.8 p.m. Live music by George Fryer and wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine. Tasting cost is $5, wines for $15.

34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

saturday

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO TREASURE CRAWL The Treasure Trail Merchant Association shopping event where you can follow a 3-mile trial of shopping with great discounts and more.

Pick up your treasure map at Coastal Consignment. 31952 Camino Capistrano, Suite B4, San Juan Capistrano.

10

TOOLS OF THE TRADE: BREWING THE PERFECT CUP 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Special event at The Ecology Center with the originator of the coffeehouse movement and master roaster, Martin Diedrich of Kean Coffee, who will discuss sustainable coffee. Admission is free. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

ASTRONOMY NIGHT 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Gaze into the night sky through telescopes with astronomy experts at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Adults $10, kids $5. More info: 949.489.9778, www. theconservancy.org.

The Capistrano Dispatch November 9–22, 2012

AT THE MOVIES: ‘FLIGHT’ FLIES HIGH Paramount Pictures’ Flight is a comeback of sorts for legendary filmmaker Robert Zemeckis. It is his first live-action film since Cast Away (2000) and his first R-rated movie since Used Cars (1980). As a director usually recognized for feel good films such as Romancing the Stone (1984), Back to the Future (1985), Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988) and Forrest Gump (1994), many wouldn’t expect him to make a film with so much mature content. But he does and in a surprisingly captivating way.

On an ordinary weekday in Orlando, Fla, a pilot (Denzel Washington) and flight attendant (Nadine Valezquez) wake up in a hotel room after a night of getting wasted together and just before their scheduled short flight to Atlanta. We soon discover Denzel Washington in Flight. © 2012 Paramount Pictures the pilot, Whip, is an alcoholic. When his plane takes a sudden steep dive toward the ground, Whip makes a miraculous, but unheard of, lifesaving decision to avoid a more grisly crash. At the same time in Atlanta, a washed-up photographer (Kelly Reilly) with a heroin addiction experiences an overdose. Don Cheadle and Bruce Greenwood co-star as Whip’s attorney and union representative who defend him when he’s charged with flying under the influence. Flight, written by John Gatins, is one of Zemeckis’ most ambitious films to date and reminds us that on-screen optimism can exist alongside depression and a film can be graphic without being crude. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Zemeckis, Washington and Reilly are popular contenders in the next award season. —Megan Bianco

SECOND STAGE STAND UP 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Comedians entertain on Stage II at Camino Real Playhouse.

Tickets $12. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

WHALE AND DOLPHIN TOURS Capt. Dave’s Safari has daily whale and dolphin watching tours. Cost $55 adults, $35 children, 2 and younger free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

SECOND SATURDAY ART FAIR 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Downtown San Juan Capistrano features a monthly Fine Arts and Crafts Fair on the second Saturday of the month.

949.493.4700, www.sjcartfair.org

ASIA ALL – ORIGINAL MEMBERS 7 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. $55. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

DESIGN IT YOURSELF: A LIVING WREATH 10 a.m.11 a.m. Class at Goin Native to make a 12-inch wreath. $49. 31661 Los Rios St., 949.493.5911, San Juan Capistrano, www.goinnative.net.

PAJAMA STORYTIME 7 p.m. Wear your pajamas and listen to stories by the National Charity League Sunshine Readers at the San Juan Capistrano Library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

COASTAL MOUNTAIN ACADEMY CASINO NIGHT 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Fundraiser at the San Juan Hills Country Club featuring live music with Cheryl Silverstein and group. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1167, www.sanjuanhillsgolf.com.

THE DIG 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Special showing at the OC Great Park of a dramatic tale about a world-renowned archaeologist who travels to the Middle East to uncover the identity of a remarkable find. Free. Info: 866.829.3829, www.ocgp.org/events/the-dig.

sunday

WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT: A DAY ON THE WATER 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Dana Outrigger Canoe Club hosts an event at Baby Beach for Wounded Warriors and their families to enjoy outrigger canoeing and standup paddle boarding. Entertainment provided by Hana Hou Musicians. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive Dana Point, www.danapoint.org.

11

VETERAN’S DAY MEMORIAL SERVICE 10 a.m.

The Dana Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary and the city of Dana Point proudly recognize all veterans for their service and sacrifices in a ceremony at Strands Vista Park. 34201 Selva Road, Dana Point, 949.248.7696, www.vfwpost9934l.org.

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

949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

Page 14

monday

12

COUNTRY DANCIN’ WITH PATRICK AND FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Monday at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

tuesday

GOOD NEIGHBORS CLUB OF CAPISTRANO VALLEY 11 a.m. The ladies group meets at Irons in the Fire for lunch for an entertaining program and to discuss local groups of interest.

This week: Enjoy the music of Robert Fields. 150 Avenida Magdalena, San Clemente, 949.361.0586.

13

SUCCULENT TERRARIUM FOR THE HOLIDAYS 10 a.m. Make holiday globes at Goin Native. Cost $18-$23.

31661 Los Rios St., 949.493.5911, San Juan Capistrano, www.goinnative.net.

wednesday

14

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

KARAOKE WITH LES AND JOEL 7:30 p.m. The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

HART AND SOUL 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

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

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 14) KALAMA BROTHERS 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Local talent/ brothers at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

WEDNESDAY WINE DINNER AT VINE 7 p.m.-9 p.m.

Four course wine and food pairings. $40 per person.

Reservations recommended. 211 N El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2079, www.vinesanclemente.com.

thursday

CASA CLASSICS: PIANO AND FLUTE CONCERT 7 p.m.

Acclaimed musicians Robert and Florence Estrin return to Casa Romantica to perform an exceptional program of classical piano and flute music. Tickets $10-$25. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

15

WHALE WATCHING 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Dana Wharf offers daily whale watching tours on the Ocean Adventure catamaran. Cost $30-$45. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

GARDEN ANGELS 8:30 a.m. Volunteer with Goin Native at Los Rios Park. 31661 Los Rios St., 949.493.5911, San Juan Capistrano, www.goinnative.net.

AMERICAN MADE 7:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

friday

WINTERDANCE 2012 8 p.m. The Dance Department at Saddleback College presents a concert of numerous dance styles in McKinney Theatre.

Tickets $12-$15. Additional show Nov. 17 at 8 p.m. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

16

WINE AND MUSIC CRUISE 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Dana Wharf’s cruise on a luxury catamaran with wine, snacks, music and more. Tickets $49. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

SWING SHIFT 8:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

THE BLUE BOYZ 7:45 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Vintage Steak House. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

saturday

SJC ROTARY CLUB THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE SJC Rotary Club will be collecting food for the needy at Vons, Ralph’s and Marbella Markets during the morning. More info: www.sanjuancapistranorotary.org.

17

ARK PET ADOPTION 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Rescue animal up for adoption in San Juan pet stores: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. are dogs at PetsPlus and 12-4 p.m. are cats and kittens at PetSmart. 949.388.0034, www.arkofsanjuan.org.

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

Family Style plays; 8:30 p.m. Anthony Rivera and The Raining Horseshoes take the stage. The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

BACKYARD SKILLS: RAIN BARREL WATER CATCHMENT 1 p.m.-3 p.m. The Ecology Center hosts a class to teach how to harvest your rainwater in order to save water and money. Cost $10-$15.

32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

LAST CHANCE BAND 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

ADYRON GROSS AND THE STONE CUTTERS 7:45 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Vintage Steak House. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

SUPER DIAMOND AND ATOMIC JONES 8 p.m.

Concert at The Coach house. Tickets $25. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

sunday

MARINE WILDLIFE CRUISE 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. The Ocean Institute’s cruise on the Sea Explorer to view of whales, dolphins, sunfish, sea lions, and other creatures of the sea. Cost $22-$35. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

18

PHIL VANDERMOST AND TELESOUND 2:30 p.m.7:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

THE SHANGRI-LA CHINESE ACROBATS 2 p.m.

Special, authentic performance in McKinney Theater at Saddleback College. General admission $32.

28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GARDEN CLUB MEETING 10 a.m. Members can create fall floral arrangements in the San Juan Hills Golf Club. San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.584.1680, www.sanjuanhillsgolf.com.

monday

19

tuesday

WHAT THE ROBIN KNOWS BOOK SIGNING AND TALK 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Jon Young, guest speaker and author of “What the Robin Knows,” at Tree of Life Nursery.

33201 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.728.0685, www.californianativeplants.com.

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, www.ocpl.org.

RUSH 7:30 p.m. Live in concert at the Honda Center.

Tickets start at $50.50. 2695 E. Katella, Anaheim, 714.704.2500, www.hondacenter.com.

MIKE DEBELLIS 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch November 9–22, 2012

20

Page 17

LUNCH LOCAL 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the San Juan Capistrano Chamber for lunch on the third Tuesday of the month at one of San Juan Capistrano’s local restaurants.

Location TBD. Contact the Chamber. 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

wednesday

FAM’S THANKSGIVING DINNER AND ADOPT-A-FAMILY 5 p.m.-7 p.m. You can volunteer, adopt a family or attend the annual dinner for families in need at the San Clemente Community Center. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, 949.492.8477, www.family-assitance.org.

21

TOOTS AND THE MAYTALS 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Tickets $30.50-$33.50. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

BILINGUAL STORYTIME 11:30 a.m. Stories in Spanish and English for kids at the library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

WEST COAST STRAYZ 7:30 p.m. The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

thursday

THANKSGIVING DAY

22

TURKEY TROT 7 a.m. Annual 10k, 5k and kid’s run in the Dana Point Harbor. Entry fees vary. 34624 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, www.turkeytrot.com.

THE VINTAGE THANKSGIVING 8 p.m. A la carte turkey dinner and a traditional menu at The Vintage Steak House. $18.95 each. 26701 B Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com SWALLOW’S THANKSGIVING 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Complimentary Thanksgiving buffet and music with Good Deal Band at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

ZACK CHURCHILL 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

UPCOMING: NOVEMBER 23 HIKE OFF YOUR THANKSGIVING FEAST AND PICNIC 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Post-holiday moderate-level hike and picnic at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Bring your own leftovers for lunch.

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

A WONDERFUL LIFE: THE MUSICAL 8 p.m. Preview night for the new holiday play debuting at Camino Real Playhouse. Regular shows through Dec. 16. Tickets $18-$34. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

Have an event?

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

SJC LIVING

4

LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Friday 11.16 Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues, hosted by The Dispatch founder Jonathan Volzke. Occurs every Friday. All are welcome. El Adobe Restaurant, 31891 Camino Capistrano.

Monday 11.12 Veterans Day Tuesday 11.13 City Council Meeting 6 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano.org

Wednesday 11.14 Transportation Commission Meeting 6 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano. org Thursday 11.15 Design Review Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano.org Monday 11.19 Parks, Recreation and Senior Services Commission Meeting 6 p.m.

City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano.org Tuesday 11.20 Utilities Commission Meeting 8 a.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano.org Thursday 11.22 Thanksgiving Holiday Friday 11.23 Next regular issue of The Dispatch publishes

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50: Tom Blake

Are California Men Intimidated

by Beauty, Intelligence?

Clearing up misconceptions about older single men

A

s a columnist writing about dating after 50 for 18 years, I’ve heard a lot of opinions from single women regarding single men. In my opinion, two of these opinions are erroneous; today I am going to clear them up.

The first misconception is when women age 50-plus tell me the reason they don’t date much is that men are intimidated by their beauty, intelligence and confidence. I received four emails in the last two weeks on that topic.

Andrea said, “A lot of men feel intimidated or threatened by my bubbly personality, intellect and free spirit.”

Gail emailed, “I’ve met too many men who are definitely intimidated by self-confident, strong, intelligent women. I’ve met men lately who want a compliant, weak, unsure, unintelligent woman. I think it’s just the nature of some men...not all, thankfully.”

Sundra stated, “I have had many men tell me my intelligence intimidated them. I have had some tell me they could not trust a wife as attractive as me.”

Rose said, “A friend told me that being intelligent, attractive, confident, financially secure, inquisitive and independent is intimidating to men.

They prefer someone more of a mess and dependent they can take care of or rescue.”

Perhaps these women simply are not meeting quality men. Not one single, older guy I know is intimidated by a woman’s intelligence, beauty or The Capistrano Dispatch November 9–22, 2012

confidence. Take, for example, my friend Ken, a retired guy, who visits Tutor and Spunky’s, my Dana Point deli. He’s tall, intelligent, good looking, a great dancer and fiON LIFE AND nancially comfortable.

LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake Ken is not intimidated by women with those qualities; he will only date women with those qualities.

Women who believe they intimidate men because of their intelligence, confidence and beauty are kidding themselves. Quality men appreciate those characteristics—and other qualities such as kindness, consideration and thoughtfulness—as well. Men I know do not look for women they can manipulate. They look for women who are equals.

The second misconception I hear from women is that there are no good single men in California.

Sonya emailed, “Here in California there are no good men, so I find that looking for them or wishing upon a star is a waste of my time.”

I responded to Sonya’s email: “Ah come on, Sonya, you don’t really mean that.”

Her reply: “My personal experiences in California are unreal and I am an educated person. So I am not holding my breath anymore, just concentrating on my own career.”

Restoring my faith in single women on the topic of California men, Maria

emailed saying that when she moved to California she dated for a year and then stopped. She added, “I decided stopping wasn’t the fault of California men (and I did a lot of blaming), but it was my negative attitude. I realized I had subconsciously put up a ‘no vacancy’ sign.

“I’m waking up now, changing my attitude to a more open frame of mind and trying to figure out how to get to Page 18

know men again with my confidence intact. There are plenty of high-energy, spiritual men around who are older.”

For the record: confident, attractive, and intelligent women do not intimidate quality men and there are a lot of good single guys in California. Locating them? That’s a different issue.

To comment: tompblake@gmail.com.

CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY The only directory featuring San Juan Capistrano businesses exclusively ELECTRICIANS

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

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

949.493.7769 Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 Excel Electric - CA #793860 32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, www.excelelectric.com 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

JEWELER

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

949.493.3632 949.373.8963 Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design 32382 Del Obispo, Ste. C-3, www.abbysdesigns.com

San Clemente Computer & Network Services daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581

COINS GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

949.350.4692

Vermeulen’s Landscaping Inc. bvland@cox.net

YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly

A to Z Leak Detection www.atozleakdetection.com Chick’s Plumbing www.chicks-plumbing.com

949.661.0967

949.496.9731

PRINTING

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

MOLD REMOVAL

$100! Write-up of 50 words with logo.

Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@thecapistranodispatch.com

WATER DAMAGE

949.212.0499

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

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

Bayside Window Cleaning, Inc. 949.215.2323 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com Clear Windows 949.485.8793 San Clemente, www.clearwindows-llc.com

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

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

Locals Only Business Spotlight for only

949.499.4464

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

LANDSCAPING

COMPUTER SERVICES

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SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

Stallions Fall in Final Game to Dolphins The Capistrano Dispatch

n an important final regular season football game with playoff implications for both teams, it was the Dana Hills Dolphins who came out on top in defeating the San Juan Hills Stallions, 28-14 November 2 in Dana Point.

With the victory, the Dolphins finished in a three-way tie atop the Sea View League—their first title in more than 40 years.

The Stallions (7-3, 1-3 league) are out of the playoff picture, but the team finished with the best record and tied the second highest win total in school history. The 2010 Stallions team finished with a 7-4 overall record.

The Stallions got off to a quick start after junior Kyle Mucerino returned the opening kickoff 56 yards to the Dolphins’ 46-yard line.

The Stallions capitalized on two defensive penalties to get into the endzone, and Corey White’s 4-yard run gave them an early 7-0 lead after the extra point.

The Dolphins answered back in the second quarter after senior Matthew Slade intercepted junior Jacob Gibson’s pass and returned it to the 26-yard line. Senior Marcus Hughes’ 5-yard touchdown run tied the score after the extra point, and from there, the Dolphins never looked back.

The Dolphins took a 14-7 lead into halftime on a 20-yard touchdown pass from junior Mac Vail to senior Logan Warren. They extended their lead on the opening drive of the second half on a 26-yard pass from Vail to senior Corey Chambers.

Vail also added a 1-yard touchdown run in the third.

The Stallions added a score in the fourth on a touchdown pass from Gibson to senior Scott Hoover, but they were stifled for much of the game by a stout Dolphins defense. CD

I

The Capistrano Dispatch November 9–22, 2012

FORMER TARTAN CONTRIBUTES TO HISTORIC RUN

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

As a member of the St. Margaret’s boys soccer team, Drew Lind earned first-team All-CIF honors and led the Tartans to a CIF semifinals appearance.

Now he has contributed to a Pomona-Pitzer squad that made a deep run into the playoffs.

After red-shirting his first year of college at Boston University, Lind (a 2010 St. Margaret’s alum) transferred to Pomona-Pitzer to play for the Sagehens, an NCSAA Division 3 team.

His presence at midfield has already paid dividends for his team, which had a school record 11-game win streak

San Juan Capistrano native Drew Lind had four goals and two assists for the Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens this season. Courtesy photo

that lasted from mid-October to early November.

On October 10 Lind helped pave the way for the Sagehens by scoring two goals in a 2-0 win over Chapman.

The win vaulted Pomona-Pitzer into first place in the conference standings.

The Sagehens (14-4-1, 13-2-1 SCIAC) went on to clinch the SCIAC championship with a 1-0 win over Caltech on October 24.

Lind, a 6-foot-1-inch defensive midfielder, had four goals and two assists in 2012.

The Sagehens (14-5-1) lost to Whittier 4-1 on November 1. Lind had an assistant in the game. With the loss, the Sagehens season came to an end, as they did not receive an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament.

—Steve Breazeale

Eagles, Warriors Set for Northeast Showdown

By Steve Breazeale The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he Saddleback Valley Christian and Capistrano Valley Christian football teams finished first and second in the San Joaquin league standings, respectively.

Now they will represent the league in the CIF-SS Northeast Division Championships on November 9. The Warriors (6-4, 5-0) will face Desert High, which won a play-in game, at San Juan Hills High at 7 p.m. The Eagles (8-2, 4-1) will travel to play Salesian.

Both teams reached the playoffs in different ways.

The Warriors struggled out of the gate and had a 1-4 record before entering league play on October 6. From there they caught fire, rattling off five straight convincing league wins. Senior running back Forrest Lohman has been the Warriors most productive player and has been on another level all season long. The senior has rushed for 1,817 yards and 23 touchdowns.

The Eagles had a very consistent season and were led by sophomore quarterback Riley Babick, who has been efficient, tossing 18 touchdown passes and only five interceptions all season. CD

PLAYOFF ROUNDUP

By Steve Breazeale The Capistrano Dispatch

• San Juan Hills •

BOYS WATER POLO After finishing the season with a 14-11 record, the San Juan Hills boys water polo team was awarded an at-large berth in the CIF-SS Division 3 Championships.

The Stallions, who earned a Sea View League at-large berth, defeated Schurr 14-5 in a wild card match on November 6. San Juan Hills then played La Canada in the first round and lost 17-7.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL The Stallions won their first round match against Foothill in the CIF-SS Division 1A Championships on November 6. The Stallions won in five sets, going 27-25, 20-25, 25-20, 19-25 and 15-11. The team was set to host Harvard Westlake November 8 at 7 p.m. Results were not available at press time.

• JSerra •

GIRLS TENNIS The girls tennis team was awarded the No. 2 seed out of the Trinity League but lost to Tesoro 14-4 on October 31 in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships.

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY The Lions will race in the Division 4- Heat 1 race at the CIF-SS Prelims at Mt. SAC on November 10. Race time is set for 10:48 a.m.

• St. Margaret’s •

GIRLS TENNIS The Tartans, playing for the first time in Division 2, lost in the second round of the CIF-SS DiviPage 22

sion 2 Championships on November 2 to El Dorado by a slim score of 9-9 (72-71). The Tartans won their first round match against Calvary Chapel/Santa Ana 15-3.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY The Tartans won their fourth consecutive Academy League title on October 31, with senior Brandon Price taking home the individual title with a time of 15:25. The Tartans battled it out with Crean Lutheran, who head coach Rob Lakeman identified as the team’s main competition heading into the season. The Tartans had four runners finish inside the top-seven. The Tartans will race in the Division 5- Heat 1 race at the CIF-SS Prelims at Mt. SAC on November 10. Race time is set for 10:35 a.m.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL The Tartans won their first round match against Montebello on November 6 in the CIF-SS Division 3A Championships. The Tartans swept Montebello in three sets, 25-8, 25-20 and 25-15. St. Margaret’s was set to host Gabrielino in the second round on November 8.

Results were not available at press time.

• Saddleback Valley Christian •

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY The Warriors will run in the girls Division 5- Heat 1 race at the CIF-SS Prelims at Mt. SAC on November 10. Race time is set for 7:54 a.m.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY The boys cross country team will run in the Division 5- Heat 3 race at the CIF-SS Prelims at Mt. SAC on November 10. Race time is set for 11:35 a.m.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL As a No.1 seed the Warriors earned a first round bye in the CIF-SS Division 4AA Championships.

They were set to host Don Lugo on November 8 in the second round. Results were not available at press time. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com