The Capistrano Dispatch

LAST CHANCE TO VOTE FOR THE BEST OF SAN JUAN...VOTING CLOSES DECEMBER 31!

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE DECEMBER 28, 2012–JANUARY 10, 2013 FOUNDED IN 2002

VOLUME 10, ISSUE 24

Looking back at the biggest issues in San Juan Capistrano this past year E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 4

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Mayor Taylor Attacked, Councilman Reeve Asks CUSD to Arm Teachers

The Top Sheriff’s Blotter Entries of 2012

The Best of San Juan Capistrano Sports

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 6

SPORTS/PAGE 18

SAN CLEMENTE

EYE ON SJC

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San Clemente’s Coastal Advisory Commission appears ready to make the case again for a citywide ban on single-use plastic bags to the City Council. Potential city bans of single-use bags have gone forward twice in recent years.

Assistant City Engineer Tom Bonigut said cities had been much more successful recently in defending such bans in court, and the steps taken by those cities could be replicated in San Clemente. Commission members who had been involved with previous attempts at a ban indicated they would be willing to make the case to the city council again. Chairman Bill Hart said it was important that the commission, as stewards of the area’s beaches and watersheds, be prepared to confidently make the case for a ban. A pitch for the ban could be made when the council sets its priority list for the year in February.

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

DANA POINT

NEWS

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

The City Council on December 4 adopted an ordinance regulating the anchoring of vessels within the city’s jurisdictional waters outside of the OC Dana Point Harbor. The new rules aim to curb safety and environmental hazards caused by boats left unattended for long periods of time in the waters off Doheny and Capistrano Beaches. The ordinance limits temporary anchorage to no more than 72 continuous hours within 1,000 yards of beaches and recreational areas.

It also requires that boats must be continuously occupied from dusk until dawn and during small craft advisories. Boaters may leave their vessels for a maximum of three hours during the day and may be required to use dye tabs to visually confirm to authorities that their toilets are working properly and no sewage leaks are present. Orange County Sheriff’s Harbor Patrol will handle enforcement.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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…the Attack on the Mayor?

THE LATEST: Mayor John Taylor was attacked by two assailants Saturday, December 15, while walking with his wife from a Christmas party, an Orange County Sheriff’s Department spokesman said.

The attack occurred around 11:30 p.m., as the Taylors were walking in the Historic Los Rios District. Taylor and his wife heard footsteps from behind and moved aside when one of the attackers punched Taylor in the head, knocking him to the ground. Both suspects began punching and kicking Taylor in the face area, stopping shortly after Taylor’s wife yelled that they were attacking the mayor. The two then ran off toward an unknown location.

Taylor was taken to the hospital, where we was treated for cuts and bruises to his head and later released.

WHAT’S NEXT: The two suspects are described as Hispanic males, about 6 feet in height and about 220 pounds. The attack appears to be random, as no personal property was taken, and unrelated to Taylor’s position as mayor. Authorities are searching for witnesses.

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

—Brian Park

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…Guns in Schools?

THE LATEST: In response to last Friday’s school shooting in Newtown, Conn., Councilman Derek Reeve has sent a letter to the Capistrano Unified School District and four private schools, asking them to

consider allowing willing staff members, teachers and volunteer parents to carry firearms as a safety measure.

“Efforts must be taken to empower teachers, staff and parents to protect our children,” Reeve said in the letter.

Reeve suggests firearms could be safely secured in classrooms with no additional funding and that no teacher or staff member be required to carry a weapon. He also provides an alternative that would allow security guard to arms themselves.

WHAT’S NEXT: District spokesman Marcus Walton confirmed the district received the letter and rejected any idea to allow school staff to carry firearms.

“While we appreciate the councilman’s interest in this topic, we will not entertain any proposal to have staff persons carry firearms,” Walton said.

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

—Brian Park

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…Reata Park?

THE LATEST: Plans are moving forward for the Reata Park and Event Center, after the City Council voted 3-2 to approve a memorandum of understanding with the Open Space Foundation, following a lengthy discussion in City Hall on Tuesday, December 11.

Several residents voiced their concerns about the necessity of some features, including a welcome center in the eastern part of town. Many said the park would benefit the future Rancho Mission Viejo development more so than San Juan Capistrano residents.

“I know we don’t have all the questions answered, but without the Open

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

Space Foundation coming to us, we’d have nothing going out there at all,” Councilman Larry Kramer said.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Open Space Foundation, which will foot the $2.7 million construction cost, plans to build the project in phases, with the first to include everything except a metal barn, presentation center and an area of land currently under a Southern California Edison easement. The park is projected to be completed December 2013, according to foundation President Brad Gates.

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

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…the Oxford Prep Cheating Allegations?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District released a statement Tuesday, December 18, publicly exonerating Oxford Preparatory Academy of allegations that teachers at the charter school helped students cheat on state standardized tests.

“An investigation did not support allegations of testing irregularities at the school,” Superintendent Joseph Farley said in the statement. “The students, teachers and parents at OPA have been, and deserve to be, congratulated for their successes on the California STAR tests.”

In its inaugural year, Oxford Prep, the south Orange County branch of the Chino-based charter school, achieved a 993 out of 1,000 API score—the highest mark in the district and the second highest in the county.

Allegations against the school first

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arose just prior to the election season.

Both the district and the school conducted their own investigations and found no credibility to the allegations.

WHAT’S NEXT: The next regular meeting of the CUSD Board of Trustees will take place Monday, January 7, at 7 p.m.

FIND OUT MORE: To view the API scores, visit dq.cde.gov/dataquest. —BP

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…SONGS?

THE LATEST: Southern California Edison officials met with Nuclear Regulatory Commission engineers at the NRC’s Maryland headquarters Tuesday, December 18, to discuss the utility’s proposal to restart Unit 2 at 70 percent power for five months.

While the meeting largely focused on the technical aspects of the proposal, NRC officials did indicate that they had some additional questions about the proposal, which would be forwarded to Edison, with hopes of being answered by the beginning of January. NRC officials did say there may still be additional rounds of questions, and did not rule out additional inspections of Unit 2.

WHAT’S NEXT: The current NRC timeline calls for another public meeting in Southern California to discuss the utility’s restart proposal in February. A decision on the restart proposal will not be made before March, according to the NRC’s website.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information, visit www.nrc.gov/info-finder/reactor/ songs/tube-degradation.html.

—Jim Shilander www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

2012: A Year of Change

With the help of two ornithologists, Mission officials began a vocalization experiment in an attempt to lure San Juan Capistrano’s famed cliff swallows back to nest.

The election season and several controversies highlight the year’s headlines The Capistrano Dispatch

S

an Juan Capistrano made headlines in 2012 and ushered in several changes that are likely to have lasting impacts. In City Hall, the most notable change was in its leadership, as the City Council welcomed back council members Roy Byrnes and Sam Allevato.

There was plenty of controversy in town, as both the City Council and Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees elections were notable for their contentious campaigns.

The Groundwater Recovery Plant and the city’s tiered water-rate structure continue to be hot debate topics, going so far as to push some residents to file a lawsuit against the city. Of course, the status of Juan, the dinosaur at Zoomars, made headlines locally and nationally and has yet to be resolved.

Even in our offices at Picket Fence Media, The Capistrano Dispatch underwent drastic changes in our 10th year, as we bid adieu to our founder Jonathan Volzke, welcomed Brian Park and launched a new website and a new design for our paper.

Here are just some of the highlights of 2012: JANUARY SONGS Shutdown: A leak in the steam generator tube in Unit 3 at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station forced its shutdown, and nearly a year later, it remains offline. In the same month, similar wear was discovered in Unit 2, after it was removed from the power grid for a scheduled refueling.

So Long, Redevelopment: The City Council agreed to become the successor agency to the dissolved redevelopment agency and also created the oversight board to help supervise any remaining redevelopment business.

FEBRUARY Governor Brown Visits San Juan: Gov. Jerry Brown joined several of the city’s civic, community and business leaders at El Adobe to celebrate San Juan Capistrano’s 50 years of incorporation.

To a packed banquet hall, Brown gave a six-minute speech that focused on the importance of state and community history.

Quarantine: Rancho Sierra Vista

San Juan Capistrano councilmembers Larry Kramer, Laura Freese and John Taylor were on hand to see the burial of the Celebration Committee’s time capsule. File photo

The San Juan Capistrano City Council was joined by Gov. Jerry Brown at a luncheon celebrating 50 years of cityhood. Photo by Jonathan Volzke

Equestrian Stable was quarantined after 16 horses were discovered to be infected with neuropathogenic equine herpes-1, a potentially fatal virus. The quarantine was lifted February 13, after three weeks passed without any new visible symptoms.

New Hotel: The city celebrated the grand opening of the Marriott Residence Inn with a ribbon cutting ceremony. City officials said the hotel would boost business, in addition to increasing bed-tax revenue.

Time Capsule: The Celebration Committee, organized to commemorate San Juan Capistrano’s golden anniversary as a city, buried a time capsule in the walkway in front of the O’Neill Museum.

The capsule contains a cellular phone, copies of The Capistrano Dispatch and a DVD of Gov. Jerry Brown’s speech at El Adobe. The capsule is scheduled to be opened in April 2016.

MARCH A New Chapter: Beloved librarian Teri Garza retired after a decade at San Juan Capistrano Library and was honored by city officials and community leaders.

Dumping the Desalter: The city pulled out of a multi-million-dollar project aimed at converting sea water into drinking water, citing the project’s growing cost.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

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Swallows Day Parade: Thousands of residents, 400 horses and 11 marching bands took part in the Fiesta Association’s 54th installment of the Swallows Day Parade. San Juan Capistrano resident Herb Langefeld took part in the parade in his motorized wheelchair, only after the City Council voted in favor of his request in February. The Fiesta Association has long advertised the event as the largest non-motorized parade in the country.

APRIL Downtown Master Plan: The City Council approved a Downtown Master Plan, which aims to create a more pedestrian-friendly downtown. Some residents criticized the plan, saying that it would change the city’s historic character.

New Finance Director: The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees hired Clark Hampton as its new deputy superintendent, business and support services. Hampton was offered the job after the board’s first choice accepted it and then turned it down after school officials offered a reduced salary.

Leaving The Dispatch: Jonathan Volzke, a 27-year journalism veteran and founder of The Capistrano Dispatch, announced his departure from the paper for a new venture with Faubel Public Affairs. Volzke continues to write a regular column in the paper and continues to host his weekly Friday morning Coffee Chats at El Adobe.

Changes at City Hall: Bill Ramsey, a 21-year city employee, was named assistant development services Director, after previously serving as principal planner. City Engineer and Public Works Director Nasser Abbaszadeh was also let go from his post.

Swallows Vocalization Experiment:

MAY Wall of Recognition: San Juan Capistrano residents Eden and George O’Connell and former city councilman Tom Hribar were inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition for their contributions and service efforts in the community.

Red-Light Cameras: The City Council unanimously voted to do away with the red-light cameras at two San Juan Capistrano intersections because of a projected loss in revenue from citations. Although accidents were never a major concern, the cameras did lower the number of collisions. The cameras were finally removed later in October.

Trash Fees Increased: The City Council approved a fee increase for trash removal services. For an average-sized household with three 67-gallon trash bins, the resulting total rate increased by 3.89 percent.

JUNE SDG&E Protest: The city sought a public hearing in protest of San Diego Gas & Electric’s attempt to demolish and rebuild the Camino Capistrano substation. The council voted to draft a letter to the state Public Utilities Commission, after they were notified that SDG&E had filed a notice with the commission to proceed with plans without any public hearings.

New Name, New Park: The cityowned land, formerly known as the East Open Space Lemon Grove, became the Reata Park and Event Center, after the City Council approved its name and a conceptual design for the park. The winning submission to name the park came from resident Gunnar Ohlund.

Dinosaur Debut: Zoomars Petting Zoo owner Carolyn Franks installed a 13-foot-tall, 36-foot-long apatosaurus replica on her property, but less than 24 hours later, she received a stopwork notice from the city after a group of residents complained the structure created a mockery of the Historic Los Rios District.

Graduation: San Juan Hills High School graduated 439 students in the class of 2012—only the second graduating class in the fledgling school’s history.

School Calendar Cut Short: The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees approved five additional furlough days to be tacked onto the end of the 2012-2013 school year. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC JULY Business of the Year: At their annual Installation Dinner and Awards Banquet, the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce awarded San Juan Hills Golf Club as its Business of the Year.

San Juan Capistrano residents Ray Perez and Marianna Taylor were honored as the Man and Woman of the Year, respectively.

Auto-Dealer Signs: The City Council unanimously approved a code amendment that allows auto dealerships to display banners, flag, inflatable corporate logos, bounce houses and other attention-getting devices.

Late Bills: Many San Juan Capistrano residents were left waiting for their July water bills, after printing and computer software errors caused delays in the billing process. The city was more than two weeks late in delivering water bills to over half of its 11,200 customers.

The Race Begins: Incumbent Councilman Sam Allevato and residents Melissa Abbott-Kaffen and Tom Marantz are the first to pull nomination papers in the race for two City Council seats.

AUGUST Freese Says No: Councilwoman Laura Freese announced she would not run for reelection in the November election due to her husband’s recent cancer diagnosis. Meanwhile, former mayor Roy Byrnes, Capistrano Common Sense editorial board member Kim McCarthy, student Joe Love and Planning Commissioners Robert Williams and Ginny Kerr pulled nomination papers.

A Week of Rodeo: The San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce’s Rodeo Week debuted with a kickoff barbecue event. The week lead up to Rancho Mission Viejo’s two-day rodeo at the Riding Park, which raised $100,000 for Camino Health Center, Shea Therapeutic Riding Center and CHOC Children’s at Mission

Hospital.

A Sequel: San Juan Capistrano residents, and husband-and-wife duo, Bob Kline and Stephanie Heredia brought back the West Coast Film Festival for a second time. Their first film, Chariots of Fire, was the first event at St. Margaret’s brand new Performing Arts Center.

An Anniversary: Jonathan Volzke, founder of The Capistrano Dispatch, and the entire Picket Fence Media team celebrated the paper’s 10th anniversary.

Water Lawsuit: The Capistrano Taxpayers Association, a local taxpayers’ rights group, filed a lawsuit against the city, alleging that the city’s tiered water-rate structure is in violation of Prop. 218, which requires rates to be relative to cost of service.

SEPTEMBER New City Attorney: City Hall said goodbye to City Attorney Omar Sandoval and bid welcome to new City Attorney Hans Van Ligten.

Abbott-Kaffen Withdraws: Melissa Abbott-Kaffen announced her withdrawal from the City Council race and her support for the joint campaign of Roy Byrnes and Kim McCarthy. Calling it a “coalitionbuilding move,” Abbott-Kaffen cited the pair’s work with the Capistrano Common Sense newsletter as an indication of their shared political philosophies.

Library Bookstore: The City Council and the Friends of the Library signed off on a memorandum of understanding to relocate the Mollie Burke Bookstore from its current location in the rear of the library to a more visible area in the Bland Garden.

OCTOBER CUSD Withdrawal: Capistrano Unified School District Trustee candidate Michele Taylor-Bible announced her withdrawal from the race in Trustee Area 2, leaving San Juan Capistrano residents

The apatosaurus replica at Zoomars Petting Zoo has been one of the most hotly debated topics in 2012.

Photo by Brian Park

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

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Rancho Mission Viejo President and CEO Tony Moiso, Miss Rodeo California Mackenzie Cayford and Gilbert Aguirre, Rancho Mission Viejo’s executive vice president and head of ranch operations. Courtesy photo

Jim Reardon and Don Franklin Richardson and Ladera Ranch resident as the remaining candidates.

Riding Park: The City Council agreed to a one-year extension to a license agreement with Blenheim EquiSports for continued use of the city-owned Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park.

Ruptured Pipeline: San Juan Hills High School was temporarily locked down and traffic was closed due to a fractured natural gas pipeline caused by a construction accident. Traffic was eventually reopened and students and staff were later released after utility workers shut off a nearby valve.

NOVEMBER Fish Out of Water: San Juan Hills Golf Club made national headlines when a live leopard shark was discovered on the 12th tee. Club employees believe the shark was dropped by a bird of prey.

The shark was rescued and released into Dana Point Harbor.

Poll Results Are In: Former mayor Roy Byrnes, who previously served on the council from 1972 to 1976, finished first in the polls and was elected into the City Council. Incumbent Councilman Sam Allevato finished second. In the race for Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees, San Juan Capistrano resident Jim Reardon, a former council candidate, won in Trustee Area 2. In Trustee Area 1, San Juan Capistrano voters also voted in Amy Hanacek. John Alpay and Gary Pritchard were also reelected.

San Juan Loses ‘Ditty’: Floyd Hugo “Ditty” Nieblas, patriarch of one of San Juan Capistrano’s historical Juaneño families, died November 3. A funeral mass was held in Serra Chapel at the Mission, followed by a traditional Capistrano funeral procession to the gravesite.

Dignitaries: The Fiesta Association elected Pamela and Jim Schuler of Dana

Point as Ms. Fiesta and Señor San Juan for the 2013 Fiesta de las Golondrinas season and Swallows Day Parade. Julia Delamare and Julian Cereghino, both from Mission Parish School, were selected as the two junior dignitaries.

DECEMBER New Council: The new City Council unanimously elected John Taylor as mayor and welcomed back Councilman Sam Allevato and former mayor Roy Byrnes to the dais. Allevato was elected mayor pro tem, over Councilman Derek Reeve, by a 3-2 vote.

Dinosaur Approved: The Cultural Heritage Commission approved Zoomars owner Carolyn Franks’ proposed revisions to her conditional-use permit, which would allow her to keep her dinosaur replica on her property in the Historic Los Rios District. The commission’s narrow 2-1 approval represented the city’s first show of support for the dinosaur.

San Juan Loses Two: Beloved veterinarian Jack Mannix and Juaneño leader Francine Yorba both died in their sleep.

The City Council dedicated their December 11 meeting to the two.

Taylor Assaulted: Mayor John Taylor was attacked by two unknown assailants while walking home with his wife from a Christmas party in the Historic Los Rios District. Taylor was treated at a local hospital for cuts and contusions and was later released. Authorities continue to look for the two suspects in what is called a random attack.

Guns in Schools: Less than a week after the school shooting in Newtown, Conn., Councilman Derek Reeve sent a letter to Capistrano Unified School District officials, asking them to allow willing teachers to carry firearms as a safety measure. The district immediately rejected the idea. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

O F

EYE ON SJC B ES T

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter 2012

COMPILED BY ARIANA CRISAFULLI AND 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.

JANUARY 9-1-1 HANG-UP Camino Capistrano, 31400 Block (Sunday, January 8, 1:41 p.m.) A woman called police from a payphone to say she was being followed by children who were actually members of the Taliban. She began yelling and cursing at someone shortly before the line disconnected.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Edgewood Road/Peppertree lane (Wednesday, January 18, 4:58 p.m.)

Deputies were called to a report of a dog bite, but no one was bitten. Another report said the dog appeared to be hit by a car, but that wasn’t accurate, either.

It was, the deputy reported, just a loose dog.

DISTURBANCE Camino De Vista, 26500 Block (Friday, January 20, 12:36 a.m.) A resident complained a tenant above was bouncing a ball just to be irritable.

DISTURBANCE Ortega Highway, 27800 Block (Friday, January 20, 2:20 p.m.) A man reported he was in an argument with his mother—who had been drinking—when she walked out of the house and fell down a hill. She was, he reported, wearing “minimal” clothing.

CITIZEN ASSIST Lobo Street, 31600 Block (Sunday, January 22, 9:49 p.m.) A man said he felt threatened when a neighbor threw an American flag over the fence onto his property.

FEBRUARY DISTURBANCE La Zanja Street, 26500 Block (Wednes-

day, February 8, 9:17 p.m.) A woman reported her 18-year-old daughter wanted to go home with her boyfriend, but the mother did not want her to go and wished that deputies be present to keep the peace.

MAY BURGLARY IN PROGRESS Via Cascada, 33800 Block (Sunday, May 20, 10:30 p.m.) A caller was home alone when she heard someone trying to open her front door. The caller immediately called police, fearing that it might be a burglar. It turned out to be the caller’s brother.

JUNE SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Avenida Aeropuerto, 26000 Block (Monday, June 4, 9:27 a.m.) A caller from Capistrano Valley Mobile Estates requested that deputies be dispatched to check on a man whom he believed to be living in an old, white Volkswagen with wooden bumpers. Police arrived, and the subject agreed to leave.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Los Rios Street, 31500 Block (Monday, June 11, 1:10 a.m.) A neighbor called police when he heard several children in the house next door screaming. Deputies responded and it was discovered that the children had been watching a scary movie.

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (Friday, June 15, 2:25 a.m.) An unknown intoxicated male showed up at the fire station and began to demand that the firemen give him a ride home.

JULY DISTURBANCE Rancho Viejo Road, 31100 Block (Tuesday, July 17, 1:41 p.m.) A female with a stroller but no baby was reported walking near Paper Annex, asking people for money and bothering tenants. When deputies arrived, the woman had left the scene and no contact could be made.

AUGUST CITIZEN ASSIST Compass Way, 25600 Block (Saturday, August 4, 11:11 a.m.) A man called police to report that for the last several weeks he had been receiving very unorthodox phone calls from a carpet cleaning company. The man could not find the company after searching for a website and believed it may be a “Ponzi scheme.”

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

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TRESPASSING San Juan Creek Road, 32100 Block (Sunday, August 5, 7:34 p.m.) Employees of San Juan Hills Golf Club called to report two males fishing from the irrigation pond on the driving range. The two men were asked to leave approximately three hours prior to the 911 call but had since returned.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE Calle Ricardo/Avenida Evita (Thursday, August 9, 8:29 p.m.) A man called police after seeing a red Mazda parked on his street for a few hours. The caller stated the car was running and had its brake lights on. The man had approached the car to see if someone was lying down in the car but found no people near the car. The caller did find that the car was left in drive and a large rock had been rested against the brake pedal.

ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON Camino Capistrano, 32000 Block (Friday, August 10, 5:48 a.m.) Police arrested a 46-year-old man after he hit his neighbor across the leg with a plank of wood. The man became agitated after a dispute regarding landscaping issues with his neighbor’s bushes crossing over into his property.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Via del Rey, 25600 Block (Friday, August 10, 11:34 p.m.) Police were called to a house that played host to what was described as a “very loud and rambunctious” party. Deputies had responded to a similar complaint at this residence an hour earlier and ended the gathering, but once the officers left the house, the people returned to the house and continued partying.

BURGLARY ALARM-AUDIBLE Calle La Purisima, 31500 Block (Sunday, August 12, 6:41 a.m.) A concerned neighbor called police when he thought he heard his next door neighbor’s house alarm sounding and the resident’s dogs barking inside. Police performed a patrol check of the area and discovered the alarm was a very loud alarm clock in the resident’s bedroom.

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Paseo Adelanto, 32100 Block (Monday, August 13, 7:22 p.m.) Police were called to a domestic violence class when a female client taking the class became agitated and disruptive. The woman was heavily intoxicated and threatened to hit her boyfriend.

ANNOYING PHONE CALL Camino Capistrano, 32100 Block (Thursday, August 16, 8:26 a.m.) San Juan Urgent Care employees called police after they had been receiving prank

calls every day for two weeks. The employees reported several unknown people, possibly two males and one female, had been calling asking if they could purchase “strange items in large quantities.”

SEPTEMBER TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Calle San Francisco, 26500 Block (Thursday, September 6, 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.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32200 Block (Thursday, September 6, 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 Park Circle, 26400 Block (Monday, September 10, 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 her house.

ABANDONED VEHICLE Country Hills Road, 29100 Block (Thursday, September 20, 10:37 a.m.) A patrol check was requested for a black Lexus that had been parked on the street for more than three days. The caller also requested that a deputy patrol check the area during the times the high school across the street is dismissing students.

The caller stated parents park in the neighborhood and block driveways and impede traffic while waiting for their children to be dismissed.

SPECIAL EVENT Vista Montana, 29200 Block (Friday, September 28, 5:34 p.m.) A resident who lives near San Juan Hills High School called police to complain about the loud noise caused by the football announcer at the high school. The caller was advised to contact the school regarding the volume of the announcer.

OCTOBER ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Calle Rolando, 26400 Block (Thursday, October 4, 3:29 p.m.) Homeland Security and the FBI requested assistance from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department in locating a man to be interviewed. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

Brian Park, 949.388.7700, x108 bpark@thecapistranodispatch.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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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 24. 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.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA CEO Norb Garrett

ART/DESIGN

OPERATIONS

EDITORIAL

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

Finance Director > Mike Reed

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Accounting Manager Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

Senior Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander Reporter, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne Sports & News Reporter > Steve Breazeale Staff Reporter, Copy Editor > Justin Swanson

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Sales Associates > Angela Edwards

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Ariana Crisafulli, Kevin Dahlgren, Adam Herzog, Darian Nourian, Tawnee Prazak

JONATHAN VOLZKE: My Turn

Violence, There and Here T

he word we hear over and over when folks talk about their love of San Juan Capistrano is “community.” Whether it’s because of the beautiful hillsides that encompass us, the history that envelops us or the myriad of events that draw us together, there’s a connection we all feel here, to the city and each other.

That connection fades, of course, the further we travel from home. Differences that divide us in Southern California from those who live north of us dampen a sense of community on a state level.

It virtually disappears by the time we move across the United States. We’re all proud to be Americans, of course, but aren’t likely to feel much kinship to those in New York, Chicago or even Connecticut.

Until this month. Sadly, tragedies bring us together, spur us to pray for each other, to reach out to help one another. We see what happened there, we want to help, we wonder if it could happen here. We hold our loved ones a little more tightly.

We want answers, often where none are forthcoming, always where none could be satisfactory. Conn. Governor Dan Malloy perhaps said all that could be said when he simply said “evil visited” Newtown. Predictably, in the wake of the horror, the debate over gun control has intensified, with our own San Juan Capistrano Councilman Derek Reeve sending a letter to the Capistrano Unified School District asking school officials to allow teachers to carry firearms.

I have friends who are gun owners and we all spent some time at the pistol range a couple of weeks ago. I’m not sure more guns are the answer, but I also can’t wrap my mind around

gun-control proposals that make sense, either.

Turning our teachers into armed militia, however, is ludicrous.

Reeve’s proposal comes on the same day I read about a Sheriff’s speJonathan Volzke cial officer accidentally shooting himself in the thigh and just months after an elite Huntington Beach SWAT officer was also hit by accidental friendly fire. Putting guns into the hands of teachers, then surrounding them with children makes no sense. I suspect the true answer to tragedies in Newtown will be more pre-screening for those seeking to purchase firearms, perhaps limiting sales to only licensed dealers.

More needs to be done, too, in dealing with the mental illnesses often at the root of these incidents.

But even as we watched Newtown mourn, we learned of a less-serious but disturbing act of violence in our own backyard. Mayor John Taylor was attacked as he walked with his wife, Marianne, through the Historic Los Rios District toward their home of 23 years.

Mayor Taylor was hit from behind, then kicked repeatedly by two assailants.

They didn’t take anything and ran off as Marianne screamed. The mayor was taken to the hospital and released a few hours later.

(A note to those who say it would have been different had the mayor been armed: He was hit from behind without warning, therefore without time to draw a weapon. Had his wife had a weapon, she would have been firing in a very dark street, toward homes. None of those circumstances seem to support the likelihood of a successful outcome to an armed confrontation.)

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

Mayor John Taylor was attacked by two assailants Saturday, December 15, while walking home with his wife in the Los Rios Historic District. Photo by Brian Park

I’ve stayed in the Los Rios District for a few months here and there, and it is truly a magical place—a microcommunity within our own small town.

Like many issues in a historic city that evolved over several hundred years—issues there are complex. A natural reaction to this crime would be to increase lighting in the district. But additional lighting was panned by residents and preservationists. Allowing businesses to stay open later—they now close at dusk—would also curtail crimes because of the additional foot traffic in the area, but residents oppose that, too.

Additional law enforcement is always helpful, but remember that our contract with the Sheriff’s Department is already about a third of all of our general-funding spending, and a study by Laguna Hills (another Sheriff’s contract city) showed that San Juan Capistrano’s per capita spending and per capita law enforcement level is the third-highest in south Orange County. The city spends $207 per resident on police services, and we have .81 deputies per 1,000 residents. Dana Point, by comparison, is tops in both categories, spending $274 per resident with a deputy rate of 1.02 per 1,000 residents.

Page 8

We are well served by the men and women of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Serious crimes dipped 6 percent from 2010 to 2011. Assaults, however, were one category that climbed. Many of those, of course, are emotional, spur-of-the-moment conflicts that no amount of law enforcement can prevent. Our Chief of Police Services, Lt. John Meyer, and the City Council, also took a great pro-active step in reducing crime last year by adding a Crime Prevention Officer who tracks crime trends and organizes efforts to make our community safer.

In the end, we need to accept that our freedoms we demand as Americans and our desire to control our own communities make it impossible to prevent every crime. It is always a complex balancing act, and we, as community, need to discuss the issues and possible solutions.

Sometimes we, as a community, will stumble. I take faith, however, in knowing that we will always come together afterward, as a community.

Jonathan Volzke is an 18-year resident of San Juan Capistrano who founded The Capistrano Dispatch. He now works for Faubel Public Affairs. Reach him at jvolzke1@cox.net. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

Letters to the Community SAN CLEMENTE RESIDENT, NEWTOWN NATIVE REFLECTS ON SHOOTINGS —Mary Grace Carpenter, San Clemente The tragic events that took place Friday, December 14, at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Newtown, Conn., hit very close to home for me. In fact, too close. Newtown is my home.

I moved to San Clemente just over a year ago, but Newtown is where I spent my childhood. My parents still live in Newtown, as do my grandparents. My father sent me a picture of the 26 grave blankets he had made at work at his landscaping company for the funerals being held this week. Each one had either a pink or blue ribbon and he told me that he had said a prayer over each one. A close friend is a reporter for the town newspaper, the Newtown Bee. She asked me to pray for her as she wrote the obituaries for the 26 victims for this week’s paper.

I never would have imagined that the president of the United States would be addressing the nation from the same stage where I used to play my French

horn for high school band concerts. No one was prepared to deal with the sorrow that has settled upon Newtown and the rest of the world. Yet, I have never been more proud of my hometown. My town has always been full of people who really care about their neighbors, which is why I am not surprised at how they reacted to the tragic events.

Even after graduating and some moving away, those who have gone through the Newtown school systems have a strong connection with their school and town. Many of my classmates from all over the country have started fundraisers to help the families of the victims, and to support Sandy Hook School. My high school class decided to donate all the money that we had set aside for reunions. I’m sure this is just the beginning of what the people of Newtown will come up with to help the victim’s families and to make an impact on the rest of the world who is watching our small but unbelievably strong town.

If you would like to help Newtown, there are a few fundraisers in place: United Way of Western Connecticut, newtown.uwwesternct.org Newtown Pride, www.newtownpride.

com Give Forward, www.giveforward. com/newtownstrongnewtownproud To read the full letter, visit www. thecapistranodispatch.com

DRUNK DRIVING: A SOBERING THOUGHT —Carlos F. Negrete, San Juan Capistrano Attorney It has often been asked of me: “What is the cost impact of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge?”

First of all, it should be clarified that a DUI charge is not limited to alcohol.

It can also include drugs (including prescription medications), marijuana, controlled substances and even overthe-counter cold medication.

Depending on whether it is a first, second or third (or more) offense, and if there was an accident with injuries or damage to property, the impact costs can range from $6,500 to over $40,000, if a minor is involved. Even the most typical DUI charge could result in a range of $6,500 to $10,000 when you consider fines and penalties ($1,000-$2,000), towing and impound fees ($250), alcohol

and drug treatment programs ($650plus), court costs, insurance increases ($500 to $1,500 per year), plus attorney’s fees ($750-$5,000). This is apart from jail time that can impose sentences of informal probation to as much as two (or more) years of incarceration. And your driver’s license may be suspended for three months to a year or more. It also does not consider the high price of taking a life.

It is a very sobering thought—one that should not be overlooked when you make the decision of whether or not to chance driving or paying for a taxi. My suggestion is that you grab a taxi. It will be the wisest driving investment you can make. So please, take my suggestion and party wisely during this Holiday Season. Best Wishes!

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.

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

ONSTAGE AT THE COACH HOUSE: STRUNZ AND FARAH Often described as world music, world guitar or guitar fusion world music, it is clear that the common theme for Strunz and Farah is “world.” And who better to represent world music than two musicians from opposite ends of the world? With a combination of Latin American and Middle Eastern sounds, Jorge Strunz (Costa Rica) and Adeshir Farah (Iran), have been fusing their cultural backgrounds together through music since they met in 1979 and realized their potential. Though the two come from different cultures, their musical backgrounds are not so different. Both have training in classical, flamenco and jazz guitar. “Part of the reason our styles work so well together is because we have a similar technical style and technique in guitar playing. There is also the fact that the guitar itself is a good instrument, probably the best to Strunz and Farah. Courtesy photo cross cultural boundaries. It’s easy to translate our cultural backgrounds into music,” Strunz said. Strunz and Farah have also played shows all over the world. The two have just returned from India and are still “quite jet-lagged,” Farah said. Now they are back in the West Coast to play a show at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Sunday, January 6. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. For more information, or to purchase tickets, see www.thecoachhouse.com or call 949.496.8930. — Ariana Crisafulli

sunday

30

CASPER’S NATURE HIKE 9 a.m. An easy one-mile hike at Casper’s Wilderness Park.

Free. Call for more info and directions: 949.923.2210, www.irlandmarks.org.

MICKEY AVALON 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. $25.

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

DONAVON FRANKENREITER 8 p.m. The soulful surfer/musician headlines for two nights at The Coach House, December 30 and 31. Tickets $25-45. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

THE WHITE FRIDAY: PRE-NYE PARTY 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

Party at The Shore featuring DJ Marc Moreno. Guests must wear white. Free. 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.481.6089, www.theshoresanclemente.com.

SUNDAY FUNDAY 2:30 p.m. The Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash play live at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

28

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

LARRY FRESCH BAND 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

HOLIDAY ‘FANTASEA’ GINGERBREAD DISPLAY 12 p.m.

See the Ritz-Carlton’s Holiday Gingerbread Display, which the pastry team spent more than 400 hours to create. 1 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com.

29

TELESOUND 8 p.m. Live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

PET ADOPTION 12 p.m.-4 p.m. The Ark of San Juan has cats for adoption at PetSmart in the Costco Plaza (33963 Doheny Park Road); and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. There are dogs for adoption at Pets Plus (32022 Del Obispo Street).

949.388.0034, www.arkofsanjuan.org.

LIVE MUSIC AT SWALLOW’S 2:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Helicopter performs, followed by Jeffrey Michaels at 8:30 p.m., at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

JUMPING JACK FLASH 8 p.m. Rolling Stones cover band at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

monday

SWALLOW’S INN NYE PARTY 7 p.m. Celebrate the New Year at The Swallow’s Inn, featuring live music by Grand Junction, party favors, champagne toast and more.

Tickets $15 advance, $20 at the door. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

31

NEW YEAR’S EVE MASQUERADE BALL 7 p.m.

Celebrate the New Year at Iva Lee’s with a three-course meal, music by special guests Byron Hudson (country blues), Nathan James and the Rhythm Scratchers and more. Reservations recommended. Cost $65 each.

555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

RAYMOND GENOVESE AND FRIENDS 9 p.m.1 a.m. Live music at The Vintage Steak House 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

OLD MONEY JIM NYE PARTY 8 p.m.-1 a.m. New Year’s Eve party with live music and more at the Dana Point Yacht Club. 24399 Dana Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2900, www.dpyc.org.

THE ‘DECADES OF BOND’ NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY 8 p.m. The St. Regis Monarch Beach hosts the James Bond-themed NYE party featuring music by Flashback Heart Attack, a DJ, as well as Aston Martin motorcars on display, food and drinks, a midnight champagne toast.

Tickets $75-$105. One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3200, www.stregismb.com.

CHRIS CRAM NYE 8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE BLOCK PARTY NYE party at the OC Fair with hit tribute bands, gourmet food trucks, a demolition derby, Vegas-style games and a midnight pyrotechnic celebration. General admission $37.50, VIP $75. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com.

tuesday

SALSA 101 7 p.m. Stillwater features a salsa dance class with Coach Eric Romero followed by open dancing starting at 8:30 p.m. Admission for dance class is $20; open dance free. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

01

NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy brunch at the Ritz Carlton served in The Pavilions overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Cost $65. 1 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com.

wednesday

BROADWAY TIME NYE PARTY 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Camino Real Playhouse presents a New Year’s Eve party with dining, dancing, party favors, champagne toast and more. Tickets $64. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

WINE TASTING 7 p.m.8 p.m. Educational wine tasting at St. Roy Chef’s Pub at Vine featuring four-course food and wine pairings; menu changes weekly. Cost $40 per person. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.com.

NYE AT MONTEGO 8 p.m. Party to ring in the New Year at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

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.

(Cont. on page 14)

Page 13

02

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 13)

thursday

WHALE WATCHING 12 p.m. & 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.

03

ALL STARS LIVE 7:30 p.m. Trio plays dance, pop and classic rock music at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

BILLY WATSON 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar.

156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

LAGUNA BEACH ART WALK 6 p.m.-9 p.m. The first Thursday of the month, art galleries in Laguna Beach display their works in a free and educational event, with refreshments and more. More information: 949.683.6871, www.firstthursdaysartwalk.com.

friday

SHOWOFF: INTERNATIONAL PLAYWRITING FESTIVAL 8 p.m. The annual playwright festival at Camino Real Playhouse featuring 10-minute plays by seven directors with the audience voting for the winner. Tickets $18-$24. Two weekends only. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

04

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.

AT THE MOVIES: ‘THE HOBBIT’ LACKS MAGIC Ten years ago, when Harry Potter was the most popular and successful franchise for anyone under 15 years old, Lord of the Rings was the most popular and successful franchise for anyone over 15. Eight years ago, Return of the King won 13 Oscars, including Best Picture. Now, nearly a decade later, Peter Jackson and company are back with the most anticipated prequel of the year, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

The story begins with hobbit Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) 60-years-younger and urged by Gandalf (Ian McKellen) to join 12 dwarves on an adventure to reclaim the Lonely Mountain. The party—lead by the last dwarf prince, Thorin (Richard Armitage)—is also being pursued by a group of large, © 2012 Warner Bros. Ent. Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc. savage orcs on the hunt for them as well.

Lord of the Rings regulars Elijah Wood, Ian Holm, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee and Lee Pace appear in cameos throughout the film. Freeman gives an impressive performance as the young protagonist and Aidan Turner becomes the most memorable dwarf. While the original trilogy was phenomenal and mesmerizing, The Hobbit comes off indulgent and tedious in pacing as well as over-the-top visuals. By the end of the movie, the audience is left to wonder why Jackson didn’t just make one epic blockbuster instead of a new nine-hour trilogy. —Megan Bianco

START THE YEAR OFF RIGHT HIKE 8 a.m.-10 a.m.

Start your first day of 2013 with a brisk paced 4-mile nature hike at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Donation $5-$10. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

MISSING PERSONS FEATURING DALE BOZZIO 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House, also with Groove Kitty, The Fabulous Rudies and Sailors of Neptune. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

sunday

TOWER OF POWER 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Tickets $39.50. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. SJC Historical Society leads a tour to see Los Rios Historical District, O’Neill Museum, Montanez Adobe, the Mission, Rios Adobe and more. Meet at the train depot on Verdugo Street.

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

saturday

SUNDAY FUNDAY 2:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

WINE TASTING 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Live music and wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine (wine tasting starts at 4 p.m.).

Tasting cost is five wines for $15. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

ADOBE BRICK MAKING 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Every Saturday and Sunday the Mission features a hands-on activity for kids to make and build their own adobe brick and learn about the lives of Mission Native Americans. Cost $3 plus admission fee of $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

05

DANA POINT FARMER’S MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce and much more every Saturday at La Plaza Park, Intersection of PCH and Golden Lantern in Dana Point.

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

Occurs every Saturday; a $5 donation supports the Friends of the Library. For more info, call 949.489.0736.

NATURE TOUR 9 a.m. A docent leads an informative walk out of the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, www.danapoint.org.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

06

FOL BOOK SALE 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The San Clemente Friends of the Library first-of-the-month book sale with boxes and boxes of books for all ages plus music & movies with all proceeds benefiting the library. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org.

VILLAGE ART FAIRE 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The first Sunday of every month, enjoy a sidewalk arts and crafts faire along Avenida Del Mar in San Clemente; This month will feature great holiday shopping with unique hand-crafted objects and art. Info: 949.218.5378, www.villagesanclemente.org.

monday

07

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

Page 14

tuesday

DOCENT ORIENTATION PROGRAM 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Interested in being a docent at Mission San Juan Capistrano? Come join the orientation program. Free with paid admission of $5-$9.

26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

08

CURIOSITY CARTS 10 a.m.-12 p.m. A hands-on learning experience for kids 5 and older with replicas of mission artifacts used by the Juaneño Indians at Mission San Juan Capistrano. 26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

wednesday

MISSION GARDEN TOURS 10 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Guided tours of the Mission gardens. Free with paid admission $5-$9 plus $1-$2 for tour. 26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

09

OLD CAPISTRANO FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.-7 p.m.

Every Wednesday at El Camino Real and Yorba; 949.493.4700.

thursday

BEETHOVEN’S VIOLIN CONCERTO 8 p.m.

Beethoven’s most performed and most recorded work in the violin repertoire in concert in the Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets start at $25. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2121, www.scfta.org.

10

FORTUNATE YOUTH 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House, also with Defunked and Joint Committee. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

Have an event?

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

SJC LIVING

4

LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Tuesday 12.25

Friday 1.4

Thursday 1.10

Christmas Holiday

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

Interstate 5/Ortega Highway Interchange Project Open House 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Open House hosted

by Caltrans. Includes project overview, construction schedule, closure information and more. More information: Madison Chetwood 949.337.4288 or mchetwood@caltrop.com. St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, 31641 La Novia Ave.

Wednesday 12.26 City Hall Holiday Closure City Hall, including all council and commission meetings, will remain closed through January 1 and reopen January 2 at 7:30 a.m. www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

Monday 12.31 New Year’s Eve Holiday

Wednesday 1.9 Transportation Commission 6 p.m.

City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

Friday 1.11 Next regular issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50: Tom Blake

Which Internet Dating Sites are Best for Seniors?

I

’m often asked by singles over age 50 which internet dating websites I recommend. There is no correct answer because everybody has different personalities, tastes, expectations, appearances, website experiences and needs.

Karla, Palm Springs, recommends ON LIFE AND avoiding the free sites such as Plenty LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake of Fish and OK Cupid: “I feel that if a man or woman is serious about finding a quality mate, they should be willing to pay for it— sort of a ‘good faith’ thing.” She added that the quality of men on freebee sites is very low. And yet, there are other women who have met decent men on the free sites.

But fee-based sites aren’t perfect either. Karla said this about a well-known paid site: “Not only is it expensive, it doesn’t accurately interpret one’s personality created from their endless questionnaire.”

Seniors seeking a partner who shares similar religious beliefs can go to specialty sites such as Catholic Singles, Catholic Match, JDate (for Jewish people) and Christian Mingle, among others.

A few of my e-newsletter readers feel that sites that cater specifically to older singles such as Our Time, a site formed out of the merging of Senior People Meet and Senior Friend Finder, work best because most of the people on those sites are seniors looking for other seniors.

However, Stella, Garden Grove, says the sites that cater to older singles have their flaws as well: “I was on a site for six months. I scheduled four dates, all of which cancelled at the last minute. Also, there were many, many men who wanted phone sex, and several that were married or shacking up and just wanted to see what was ‘out there.’”

Susan, 57, who resides in Australia, commented on meeting up with old friends via Facebook: “Be careful

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

with this one. I have found that even with the passing of decades, they have the same issues with more baggage.”

Regardless of the drawbacks on the various sites, lots of couples have had success using Internet dating sites. Gale, North Carolina, emailed, “Match.com was very rewarding for me in 2001. I received two free weeks in my mailbox and met the love of my life, in spite of the distance. He moved south, we married and lived happily until his passing in 2008.

I suggest caution for anyone using these sites, until you are absolutely sure with whom/what you’re dealing. Unfortunately, there are many unstable people out there, both men and women.”

Some singles admit they’ve had no luck with Internet dating and prefer to pursue other means of meeting potential mates, such as through networking with friends and family or attending social events in their respective communities.

Page 16

Bottom line: The Internet is a double-edged sword when it comes to seniors seeking mates. It can be a great tool as the plethora of success stories proves.

However, it also can be highly discouraging for seniors.

There is a lot of rejection, so a thick skin is required.

Plus, many, many seniors have been scammed and lost thousands of dollars by being taken, particularly new widows who are vulnerable. Playing the Internet dating game is not for the naïve or faint of heart. Internet dating takes a lot of time, effort, patience, and often, some money. Which site is best? It all depends on the individual.

To read the full story, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. CD In January, there will be two singles 50+ meet and greet gatherings. On Thursday, January 10 and Thursday, January 24. For information, see www.tutorandspunkys.com. 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

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SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

PREP LEAGUE ROUNDUP

GIRLS BASKETBALL The JSerra girls basketball team is off to a solid start to their preseason, tallying an 8-2 overall record in the early going. The Lion defense came out strong in the team’s opening three games, limiting opponents to scores of 12, 12 and 20 in the first three contests.

The Lions now prepare for the Holiday Hardwood Invitational, which begins with a December 26 match against Mater Dei Catholic.

GIRLS SOCCER The San Juan Hills girls soccer team finally suffered its first loss of the year following a 1-0 defeat at the hands of visiting University on December 13. The Stallions (4-1-2) have been taking

care of their home turf this season, going 2-1-1 while playing at home while boasting a 1-0 road record.

BOYS BASKETBALL The Capistrano Valley Christian boys basketball squad probably did not want this holiday break to come. The team is on a roll and is in the midst of a 10-game win streak. The Eagles’ (14-1) lone loss came against Crean Lutheran on December 4.

WRESTLING St. Margaret’s junior Jason Kim opened his season with a third place finish in the 160-pound class at the San Marino Invitational on December 8. The Tartans next match will be against Aquinas High on January 11. —Steve Breazeale

2012: The Year in San Juan Sports

By Steve Breazeale and Darian Nourian The Capistrano Dispatch

H

ere at the The Capistrano Dispatch, we scoured our archives to bring you the best sports stories of the past year. From new stadiums to state championships, it’s been a year full of stories worth remembering. Please make sure to send your sports news and scores to sports@thecapistranodispatch.com and follow us on twitter @SouthOCsports for in-game updates and news. —SB

The St. Margaret’s girls tennis team won its 100th consecutive match on September 11, just one of the many exciting storylines that happened In San Juan Capistrano this past year. Courtesy photo

JANUARY • Golf Course Upgrades, Gets Stables: After a total makeover to its clubhouse, San Juan Hills Golf Club introduces a new horse corral out front for those wishing to tie up their animals while they get a drink.

FEBRUARY • Stallions Sign Letters of Intent: Five San Juan Hills student-athletes sign their letters of intent to play at the collegiate level. Notable signees included McKenzie Lee Walsh (Soccer, UC Santa Barbara) and Jake Pintar (Baseball, San Diego State University) Stallions Girls Basketball Has Season of Firsts: On February 6, the San Juan Hills girls basketball team won their very first league game following a 40-38 victory over Trabuco Hills. The Stallions followed that up with the school’s first ever CIF-SS girls basketball playoff appearance on February 16.

MARCH • Tartans Win CIF-SS Title: In an absolute nail biter the St. Margaret’s girls soccer team successfully defended their CIF-SS title by defeating Hemet in penalty kicks on March 2. After 80 minutes of regulation and two 10-minute overtime periods, Tartans goalie Ellie Schwartz deflected the Bulldogs sixth and final penalty kick away to her right, giving the Tartans the opportunity to win on their next take. Moments later Tartan Katie Donahue buried her ball in the back of the net to ensure the Tartans second CIF-SS title in as many years.

JSerra Hockey Claims Ducks Hockey Title: The Lions ice hockey team pulled off a 3-2 upset win over the previously undefeated Santa Margarita in the Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League finals at Honda

Center on March 6.

APRIL • Parker Wins Blenheim Spring Classic Grand Prix: Michelle Parker swept the competition and took home the $40,000 grand prize as she and her 9-year-old mare posted a 38.220. The day before, Parker won the $10,000 prize in the Jumper Classic.

MAY • Local Baseball Teams Thrive: Both the St. Margaret’s and Capistrano Valley Christian baseball teams had successful seasons in 2012 and met each other in the CIF-SS Division 6 semi-finals. The Eagles pulled off an incredible come from behind victory over the Tartans, rallying back from a 5-3 seventh inning deficit to take the lead and hold on for the win. The Eagles eventually lost in the Division 6 championship game.

Longtime Tartan Lacrosse Coach Steps Down: Gerry Manning, who founded the lacrosse program at St. Margaret’s 15 years ago, officially resigned from the position, citing personal reasons. Manning had a career 123-54 record as head coach and his team won six league titles during his tenure.

JUNE • Glen Miles Replaces Manning as LAX Coach: Former San Clemente boys lacrosse head coach Glen Miles officially accepts the head coaching vacancy at St. Margaret’s. Miles guided the Tritons to the US Lacrosse Southern Section Championship game last season.

JULY • San Juan All Stars Win Sectionals: The San Juan Capistrano Little League Senior All-Stars defeated the All-Stars from North Anaheim 7-5 on July 18 in the Senior League sectional championship game. The team became the first in the history of San Juan Little

The Capistrano Dispatch December 28, 2012-January 10, 2013

Page 18

Senior David Stoop and the Capistrano Valley Christian boys basketball team are off to a 14-1 start to the season.

Photo by Steve Breazeale

League to win a sectional championship.

AUGUST • Welcome to the Badlands: San Juan Hills finally gets a stadium they can call their own on August 1. The Badlands, as the stadium is now called, hosted its first-ever home game on August 31, when the Stallions pulled off a 21-17 non-league victory over Canyon.

SEPTEMBER • 100th Time is the Charm: The St. Margaret’s girls tennis team won the program’s 100th consecutive match-win in a row by defeating Calvary Chapel 15-3 on September 11. It was a streak that dated back four years, four consecutive CIF-SS championships and dozens of players.

Stallions Shining Start: After not winning a single game the year before, the San Juan Hills football team rattled off six consecutive wins to start their 2012 campaign. Their 27-14 victory over Dos Pueblos on September 29 marked the best start for a football team in school history. The Stallions would finish the year with a 7-3 overall record (2-3 league).

NOVEMBER • Lohman Carries Warriors to Title: The Saddleback Valley Christian football team captured the San Joaquin league crown with a 54-37 win over Fairmont Prep on November 3. The team was led by senior running back Forrest Lohman who went off for 379 rushing yards and five touchdowns in the game.

Lions X-C Three-Peat as State Champs: The JSerra girls cross country team won their third consecutive CIF Cross Country Division 4 State Championship at Woodward Park in Fresno on November 24. Five Lions runners finished inside the top-40, earning them 89 total points, 21 points clear of their next closest competitor.

Girls Soccer Returns to CVCS: Capistrano Valley Christian fielded its first girls soccer team in four years on November 28. Up until the Eagles game against Classical Academy, which Capistrano Valley Christian won 1-0, girls interested in playing soccer had been playing on the boys squad.

Girls Volleyball Teams Excel: The Saddleback Valley Christian girls volleyball team made it all the way to the CIF Division 4 Southern California Regional title game, coming up just short against Francis Parker of San Diego in a four set loss.

The St. Margaret’s girls volleyball team captured the CIF-SS Division 3A title on November 17, defeating Sage Hill 3-2.

DECEMBER • Eagles Soaring: The Capistrano Valley boys basketball team starts the year off 14-1, the team’s best start since 2004. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com