February 22, 2013

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OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FEBRUARY 22–MARCH 7, 2013 FOUNDED IN 2002

VOLUME 11, ISSUE 4

The Ace of San Juan Retired WWII fighter pilot Bill Hardy is honored with a token from his heroic past E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 4

San Juan Capistrano resident Bill Hardy recorded 8 1/2 kills as a fighter pilot during World War II. Photo by Brian Park

City Gathers for I-5/ Ortega Groundbreaking Ceremony

JSerra Girls Basketball Reaches CIF Semifinals

INSIDE: 42nd Annual Festival of Whales Event Guide

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

SPORTS/PAGE 14

SPECIAL PULLOUT

EYE ON SJC

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SAN CLEMENTE The San Clemente City Council approved an agreement Tuesday that resolves the city’s lawsuit against Arch Insurance, related to the Marblehead Coastal Development. Lisa Gordon, a representative of Lehman Brothers, which took over the residential development portion of the property, indicated that the company would begin major site work this year, including the construction of two parks and trails this spring.

The approved agreement also calls for work on Avenida Pico and Avenida Vista Hermosa to be completed. In response to a question from Councilwoman Lori Donchak, Gordon indicated that Lehman would likely not begin a marketing program for the project until next year. “We want to add value to the property first,” Gordon said. Gordon also agreed to come before the council to inform them of milestones in the project as it progressed.

DANA POINT

NEWS

NEXT DOOR WH AT ’S GOI N G O N I N OU R NE IGH B O R I N G TOW N S

The Dana Point City Council voted unanimously to direct staff to move forward with a fivephase construction plan to kick-start the Town Center Project at Tuesday’s meeting. “As I tell my wife, don’t buy green bananas, I’m tired of waiting,” said Mayor Steven Weinberg, who served on the Town Center Subcommittee eight years ago. The council and California Coastal Commission approved the $16 to $19 million project—designed by the San Francisco based ROMA Design Group—in 2008, but when the economy halted, so did Town Center construction plans. Taking a new approach to the execution of Town Center plans, Brad Fowler, city director of Public Works and Engineering, unveiled a phased plan that would have the least impact on local businesses and the city’s budget. The five-part approach will first tackle road construction along Pacific Coast Highway.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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...the Interchange Project?

THE LATEST: After more than a decade of planning and preparation, the Interstate 5/Ortega Highway Interchange Project is officially underway.

Representatives from Caltrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority were joined by city leaders, local elected officials and members of the public during a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday.

“This project has been a long time in coming and one that we believe will benefit the residents of the city, the county, the region and the state for many generations to come,” Councilman Larry Kramer.

Other guests included Mayor Pro Tem Sam Allevato, former councilwoman Laura Freese, Orange County Supervisor Pat Bates and representatives from the offices of Assemblywoman Diane Harkey and Senator Mimi Walters.

zones are at Avenida Aeropuerto, Del Obispo Street, Verdugo Street, La Zanja Street and Oso Road.

The quiet zones were made possible by safety enhancements at the crossings, including raised median islands and new signals and gates. OCTA paid the lion’s share of the cost in San Juan Capistrano, around $10.3 million. The city put in $1.1 million.

The project seemingly put the city at risk of losing insurance coverage to cover any accidents at the crossings. The city’s insurance provider, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority, excluded quiet zones from their coverage in 2009. After discussing risk and safety enhancements at the crossings with the city, CJPIA removed the exclusion and now offers the city up to $50 million of liability coverage.

WHAT’S NEXT: Ongoing maintenance of the new crossings will cost the city around $10,000 a year.

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

FIND OUT MORE: For photos from the event, visit www.thecapistranodispatch. com. —Brian Park

THE LATEST: A group of residents took to the podium during Tuesday night’s City Council meeting to object the Chamber of Commerce’s suggestion to temporarily open the El Horno Street undercrossing during construction of the Ortega Highway/I-5 interchange.

Those who spoke all indicated they either lived on or near El Horno Street, located in the city’s second oldest residential neighborhood, Mission Flats.

In a letter to the City Council on February 7, Mark Bodenhamer, president

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…the Quiet Zones?

THE LATEST: Starting March 15, train engineers will no longer be allowed to sound their horns when passing through San Juan Capistrano after the City Council on Tuesday voted to establish quiet zones at five public railroad crossings.

The crossings designated as quiet The Capistrano Dispatch February 22–March 7, 2013

…Opening El Horno Street?

WHAT’S NEXT: Council members were unable to comment on the item because it was not on the agenda, but residents still implored them to reject the Chamber’s request should it ever come to a vote.

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

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WHAT’S NEXT: Due to rain, restriping work and the installation of K-rails has been delayed to later this week or early next week, according to Caltrans spokesman David Richardson.

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and CEO of the Chamber, asked the city to consider temporarily opening the undercrossing to alleviate the east-west traffic flow during the two-year course of the project.

“While we appreciate the concerns regarding the east-west access during this period, this suggestion is not a viable solution,” said Mission Flats resident Orrie Brown, who also presented the council with a petition signed by 100 residents protesting against opening the undercrossing.

…I-5 Projects and CUSD?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District is looking for ways to mitigate the impacts of Caltrans’ Ortega Highway/I-5 Interchange Project and OCTA’s South County Improvement Project, both slated to begin this year.

With Caltrans’ project, the district has already met with the city of San Juan Capistrano and the sheriff’s department to discuss possible traffic solutions, including opening the El Horno Street undercrossing for school buses and starting a shuttle service, according to Deputy Superintendent Clark Hampton.

Meanwhile, the first phase of OCTA’s project will begin this summer, starting with the addition of northbound and southbound carpool lanes, according to

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spokeswoman Julie Toledo. Reconstruction of the Avenida Pico/I-5 interchange will begin in the summer of 2004.

WHAT’S NEXT: Toledo said that in a previous project, OCTA has told their construction crews to modify their schedules when students prepare for and take their state standardized tests.

THE LATEST: For the full story, visit www. thecapistranodispatch.com. —BP

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…SONGS?

THE LATEST: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has asked Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which constructed the replacement steam generators at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, for a redacted copy of its study on the root cause of the failure at Unit 3. The report will eventually be made public.

The document became a source of controversy two weeks ago as Senator Barbara Boxer and Rep. Ed Markey asked the NRC to investigate claims that Southern California Edison and Mitsubishi knew the design of the steam generators was faulty. Edison has denied any such knowledge. NRC chairwoman Allison Macfarlane wrote to Boxer last week indicating that an investigation into the documents was underway.

WHAT’S NEXT: NRC Region IV spokesman Victor Dricks indicated the redacted version of the Mitsubishi report would first be reviewed by NRC staff and then released to the public. Dricks said an announcement would be made at that time.

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

—Jim Shilander www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

The Ace of San Juan

Retired fighter pilot and San Juan Capistrano resident Bill Hardy is honored for his combat service during WWII

By Brian Park The Capistrano Dispatch

I

n more ways than one, Bill Hardy has always been a fast riser.

At 18, nearly three years before America’s entry into World War II, Hardy enlisted in the U.S. Navy with the goal of becoming a fighter pilot.

Born and raised in Corning, California, about 50 miles south of Redding, Hardy had been paying his way through college by milking cows.

“My decision was a necessity. I wanted to get away from milking cows from one in the morning and then go to school,” Hardy said. “So it wasn’t patriotic. It was an occupation I was interested in.”

Hardy’s matter-of-fact approach helped him quickly ascend through the ranks as an aviation machinist’s mate, eventually becoming a naval aviator and earning the rank of ensign in 1943. Hardy remained at aviation machinist mate school as an instructor, but following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hardy wanted to do something “more supportive of the war effort,” and so he was sent to Sand Point Naval Air Station in Seattle, Wash.

At that time, enlisted pilots could not become fighter pilots, so Hardy took a discharge to become a reserve naval aviation cadet. “I must have gone from $175 a month as a first class for flight pay to $75 a month,” Hardy said. “But I wanted

Above: San Juan Capistrano resident Francis O’Dwyer displays the replica panel of Bill Hardy’s F6F Hellcat. Photo by Brian Park Right: Bill Hardy in 1945. After returning from their combat cruise, the VF-17 “Jolly Rogers” fighter squadron converted from F6F Hellcats to F4U Corsairs. Courtesy photo Below: Roy Grinnell’s painting, “Bill Hardy’s Fourth Victory of Five on the Sixth of April 1945.” Courtesy image

to be a fighter pilot. I didn’t want to be an enlisted and do secondary duties. I didn’t want to be a bomber pilot either.”

After going through flight training and receiving his Wings of Gold and commission in December 1943, Hardy was assigned to the VF-17 “Jolly Rogers” fighter squadron and went aboard the USS Hornet in February 1945. In April of that year, shortly after the U.S. invasion of Iwo Jima, Hardy got his first taste of combat.

While flying their F6F Hellcats, Hardy and his wingman spotted two Japanese fighters returning from escorting kamikaze planes that had attacked U.S. ships The Capistrano Dispatch February 22–March 7, 2013

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earlier that day. Hardy and his wingman each shot down one of the planes, and throughout the rest of the early morning, he would pick off four others.

By the time he had flown back to the Hornet and the sun had risen, Hardy had shot down five enemy planes and had become “an ace in a day.” In four months of combat, Hardy had 8 ½ kills to his credit.

“I was well trained and well equipped.

At that time, we had better airplanes than the Japanese had, so it was a piece of cake to shoot down those five in the evening,” Hardy said. “The only hairy part of getting five that evening was finding the carrier after dark.”

Now 92 and living in San Juan Capistrano, Hardy is still an ace among his peers. He currently serves as vice president and director of the American Fighter Aces Association and is an active member of the local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Serra Post 3801.

A picture of Hardy with his fighter plane currently hangs on a wall in the VFW’s new office on Del Obispo Street in Plaza de Prosperidad. While visiting a friend at the VFW, Francis O’Dwyer spotted Hardy’s picture and instantly wanted to meet the man. As a relative newcomer to San Juan Capistrano and an aviation professional and enthusiast, O’Dwyer said he was drawn to Hardy’s plane.

“I’ve always had this thing about airplanes, especially older airplanes.

Nowadays, they’re all designed on computer,” O’Dwyer said. “They were really designed back then and they look really cool. There’s something about the shape of those airplanes.”

After meeting Hardy and getting to know him, O’Dwyer decided to show his appreciation for Hardy’s service the best way he could. He called up his friend, Gary Velasco, who specializes in recreating body panels of vintage and WWII aircrafts, and asked if he could create replica panels of the Hornet Hardy flew on the morning he shot down five planes.

“I said let’s do something cool for him.

He’s done so much for us,” O’Dwyer said. “Gary looked up the original panels and he painted them up like the original.

I framed it with the rivets in it, and we’re going to have Bill sign it.”

On Thursday night, February 21, O’Dwyer, Velasco and members of the VFW presented Hardy with the scale-size replica panel of the plane he once flew.

The panel features a gas lane door, the Jolly Rogers squadron’s skull-and-cross bones insignia and 8 ½ kill markings. Another panel will be donated to the VFW. “Those guys don’t get enough appreciation,” O’Dwyer said. “I just wanted to do something cool that will be hanging here long after he and I are gone. People will ask, ‘Who was this guy?’ Well, he’s a war hero.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS AND ANDREA SWAYNE All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website (www.ocsd. org). The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided.

Wednesday, February 20 PROWLER Calle Pinata, 28300 Block (2:27 a.m.)

A man reported seeing two prowlers in his backyard near the pool.

Tuesday, February 19 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Via Cuartel/Paseo Barona (10:34 p.m.)

Deputies were called regarding loud music being played by a garage band.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Via Solana/Via Rubi (10:57 a.m.)

Two women in a silver sedan were seen looking through trashcans. Both were described as being 5 feet 6 inches tall with dark hair.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Calle Arroyo/Via Parra (7:17 a.m.)

A woman was seen pushing an empty baby stroller and digging through trash cans.

Monday, February 18 BURGLARY REPORT Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (8:10 p.m.) Surfside Pizza was burglarized.

The suspects appeared to have entered through the back.

DISTURBANCE Junipero Serra Road, 26300 Block (1:30 p.m.) A caller from the athletic office at JSerra Catholic High School reported a group of juveniles skateboarding near the tennis courts.

Sunday, February 17 ILLEGAL PEDDLING Camino Capistrano/Del Obispo Street (4:36 p.m.) Three men were seen selling DVDs outside a Laundromat.

Saturday, February 16 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-NON INJURY Camino Capistrano/Stonehill Drive (5:11 p.m.) Deputies responded to a noninjury traffic accident at the intersection of Camino Capistrano and Stonehill. A 62-year-old blonde woman who listed her occupation as “teacher” was arrested, cited and released. Her next appearance in court is scheduled for March 18.

Friday, February 15 VANDALISM IN PROGRESS Paseo El Arco, 30800 Block (5:59 p.m.)

A woman called police to report her neighbors for kicking or throwing something at her garage door and damaging it.

Thursday, February 14 PEDESTRIAN CHECK Alipaz Street, 32200 Block (8:23 p.m.)

An 18-year-old man, who said he is a student, was arrested for a possible gang injunction violation. The 5-foot-8-inch-tall, 150-pound man was booked into Central Men’s Jail and bail was set at $25,000. His next court appearance is set for February 26 at the Harbor Justice Center.

Tuesday, February 12 TRAFFIC HAZARD

San Juan Creek Road/La Novia (9:03 p.m.) Someone was shining a bright light from the golf course onto San Juan Creek Road blinding drivers passing by.

Friday, February 8 ILLEGAL PEDDLING Moonglow Lane, 31600 Block (5:51 p.m.) A female in her 20s was reported trying to sell unknown items. The woman was described as being around 5 feet tall with blonde hair and was last seen walking eastbound on Calle Arroyo.

WELFARE CHECK Camino Capistrano/La Zanja Street (4:57 p.m.) Officers were requested to check on children reported laying on the railroad tracks.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Ortega Highway/Rancho Viejo Road (4:42 p.m.) A caller reported mixed-up traffic signals showing red and green lights simultaneously. Deputies responded and the phasing on the lights was functioning correctly.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Ortega Highway/Antonio Parkway (7:02 a.m.) Sheriff’s deputies controlled traffic on Ortega Highway while animal control removed the remains of a coyote from the road.

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Compiled byJim Shilander

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO

Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley Names Its Youth of the Year

SJC Open Space Foundation Seeks Volunteers for Building Dog Park

Selected among several local youth, 17-year-old Yossymar Rojas was named “Youth of the Year” by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley for his “sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.”

As the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive, the award recognizes individuals who have overcome personal obstacles to make outstanding contributions to his or her family, school, community and local club. Yossymar will now compete against other winners for the county honor.

“Yossy is the perfect example of what kind of young men and women the Boys & Girls Clubs help produce each and every year. We are so proud of not only Yossy, but all the other outstanding young people that were part of the Youth of the Year program and process,” said James Littlejohn, executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley.

To learn more about the local club, visit www.bgccapo. com.

The San Juan Capistrano Open Space Foundation is looking for volunteers to help build the Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park. Anyone interested is asked to contact the foundation at info@sjcopenspacefoundation.org.

The park, which broke ground January 23, is located in the city’s northwest open space, adjacent to the historic Swanner House, currently occupied by Hamilton Oaks Vineyard, over 2.5 acres.

Donations to the park are also being accepted, and will go toward making the park the best that it can be, providing features such as doggie drinking fountains, shade structures and dog waste stations. The Open Space Foundation, which is building the Park, is 35 percent away from its fundraising goal and is seeking additional support.

The foundation is also seeking donations of specific items that are needed at the park now, including a dog waste station ($250) and a pair of drinking fountains ($500 each).

Other fundraising options include having a name etched on the stone memorial ($2,000), located in the park, a permanent installation of a nameplate ($200) honoring supporters of the project. The nameplates will be placed on the posts that surround the park.

For more information, or to make a donation, visit www.sjcopenspacefoundation.org.

Fiesta Association Announces Taste of San Juan Winners, Kid’s Pet Parade This year’s Taste of San Juan at San Juan Hills Golf Club drew in a record crowd of more than 700 people, according to the Fiesta Association. Because of the response, the Fiesta Association will limit future ticket sales to 500 and increase bar stations at future events. This year’s winners include RokPrime Steakhouse & Grille’s lobster, tomato and avocado salad for best appetizer; 3:16 Bakery’s assorted selection of cookies and pastries for best dessert; San Juan Hills Golf Club’s gourmet slider bar for best original dish; and L’Hirondelle’s beef bourguignon for best main dish.

The Fiesta Association is seeking public input on ways to improve the event in the future.

To view photos from the event, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

On Sunday, February 24, the Fiesta Association presents the Kid’s Pet Parade at Zoomars Petting Zoo. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon. Sign-ups start at 9 a.m. Children of all ages are eligible to enter in contest categories such as best owner-and-pet team

Yossymar Rojas (center) received the Youth of the Year award for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. Also pictured, James Littlejohn (left), executive director, and Mike Chambers (right), board member.

Courtesy Photo

costume, best domestic pet, best small barnyard or farm animal and best exotic pet or bird. A $3 entry fee includes participation in two categories, as well as two entries into Zoomars that day and a coupon for a free hot dog at Mission Grill.

For more information, call 949.493.1976 or visit www. swallowsparade.org.

Second Saturday Art Fair Returns on March 9 The Second Saturday Art Fair, sponsored by the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce, will be returning to downtown San Juan Capistrano for its fifth year beginning March 9. Local and regional artists will be on hand the second Saturday of each month from March through December, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to arts and crafts, the event features local musicians playing throughout the day. Visitors can also enjoy many business and restaurant specials offered throughout town.

For more information, see www.sjcartfair.org.

The dates for the event over the course of the year are March 9, April 13, May 11, June 8, July 13, August 10, September 14, October 12, November 9, December 14.

Mariachi For All Hosting February Fundraiser Mariachi For All, the San Juan Capistrano Community Mariachi Program, is inviting the public to the group’s February $.99 Showcase Fundraiser, Wednesday, February 27, from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The event is being held at at JSerra Catholic High School. Kids 12 and under are free. For more information, visit 949.680.8972 or visit www.mariachiforall.org.

Have something interesting for the community?

Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. Forward a picture along, too! We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your info to bpark@thecapistranodispatch.com.

2013 Festival of Whales Coloring Contest

Every child who enters

WINS one FREE

Whale Watching or Fishing Ticket for kids 9 & under ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN MARCH 13, 2013

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

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

www.danawharf.com

COURTESY OF DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING AND WHALE WATCHING

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

Age

Parent/Legal Guardian

Phone

Email I would like to recieve a child’s PLEASE CHECK ONE

Whale Watching Ticket

Fishing Ticket SJC

Contest is open to all children ages 9 and under. Two free kids with one paid adult. All entries must be received by March 13, 2013 for judging. Dana Point Times, San Clemente Times, The Capistrano Dispatch and Dana Wharf Sportfishing assume no responsibility for lost or late entries. All completed entries will receive one free kids tickets with one paid adult ticket, complaints of the Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching, mailed to the address on the contest entry. We do not accept the tickets on any group outing, and no copies are valid. The grand prize winner will be contacted by telephone. Some entries will be displayed around Dana Point Harbor during the 2013 Festival of Whales. The Grand Prize entry will be displayed at Dana Wharf Sportfishing. Contest entries will become the property of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and cannot be returned. Employees of Picket Fence Media, Dana Wharf Sportfishing and their families are not eligible to win. All winners are responsible for taxes and applicable fees. All parents/legal guardians of the winners will be required to verify identity through a signed affidavit, social security number and valid driver’s license. Contest void where prohibited. Entry into this contest will serve as entrant’s agreement of the above contest rules. Coloring contest winner will be notified by phone on March 18th, 2013.

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

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

Debra Wells, 949.388.7700, x104 dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@thecapistranodispatch.com BILLING Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@thecapistranodispatch.com

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. 11, Issue 4. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch ) is published twice monthly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER 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 Group Editor > Andrea Swayne City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Papagianis

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

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Elysia Gamo, Tawnee Prazak, Dana Schnell, Garrett Yancey

GUEST OPINION: By Economic Preservation Committee Chair Laura Freese

Creative Solutions Will Help See the City Through Construction In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editor@ thecapistranodispatch.com.

O

range County Supervisor Pat Bates, San Clemente elected officials and other transportation big-wigs joined San Juan Capistrano community leaders Wednesday on the old Jack in the Box site for the groundbreaking of the I-5/Ortega Hwy interchange project. Hold on to your hats—we are now off and running!

This project has been more than 10 years in the making because there really wasn’t a “right” time to begin implementing such a large change, especially in such a sensitive area—two blocks from the Mission and one block from

the entrance to our historic downtown.

The five properties that needed to be bought by Caltrans are all closed and restriping has begun. This could be viewed as scary but due to the diligence of the city for the last five years, any scariness has been softened.

The look and feel of the bridge over the highway fits much more into the culture of San Juan Capistrano. Two extremely talented planning commissioners gave of their time and talents to work with Caltrans to make sure we had the look that we wanted. This is not an easy feat.

Caltrans has their own way of doing things and for Caltrans to be as flexible as they have been with us is praiseworthy.

In October of 2012, the city proactively formed the San Juan Capistrano Economic Preservation Committee to mitigate concerns that businesses may have.

Members include city officials, the Mission, local business owners, the Chamber of Commerce, Supervisor Bates’ office, the Orange County Transportation Authority and Caltrans. Together, the Economic Preservation Committee is working to increase signage, increase

lighting, create positive advertising/information about the project and investigate ways of moving people in and out of the city effectively.

We expect this interchange project to end with extremely positive results: more citywide activities, more visitors, more unity amongst the businesses and certainly more efficient traffic flow.

Also, due to the new configuration of the roadway, we hope to have a warmer, friendlier entrance into the city.

Here are some of the actions the committee has taken so far, mostly with funds from sources other than the city: The positive messages on the banners that are located on the fences as you enter down were spearheaded through the committee. There will soon be a “Welcome to San Juan Capistrano” banner strung between the Mission and Cedar Creek Inn to welcome folks as they arrive in town. Radio spots begin next week inspiring people to visit our city. Twelve more way-finding signs will soon be installed to efficiently direct traffic throughout the city. We also have way-finding signs for pedestrians in the

works for later in the year. Lighting in the downtown area will be increased, as twinkle lights are put into the trees throughout the Ortega section of downtown. Metrolink will be offering special deals to help bring in those visitors who would love to have a railroad adventure on their way into our historic downtown.

One of the main focuses in our outreach on this project is to convey the positive message that sometimes, a bit of pain brings with it a great reward, but that pain cannot stop the people of San Juan Capistrano. Besides getting a safer, better way to get into and out of the city, we think all will benefit from a better looking downtown, more activities and a great unity in the business community.

Hopefully the people of San Juan Capistrano will persevere with their support of the businesses in town and kindly endure any frustrations.

Laura Freese is a local business owner and 35-year resident of San Juan Capistrano. She currently serves as chair of the Economic Preservation Committee and previously served one term on the City Council. CD

WELCOME TO DANA POINT’S 42ND ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF WHALES

By Steven Weinberg, Mayor of Dana Point

Welcome to Dana Point as we begin celebrating our 42nd annual Festival of Whales beginning with the Festival of Whales parade on Saturday, March 2.

I am very proud to announce that the 2013 Parade Grand Marshal is Staff Sergeant Mark Zambon of the United States Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Battalion at Camp Pendleton. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Selva and continues along Pacific Coast Highway through Town Center, ending at the Festival of Whales Street Fare at La Plaza Park.

The Festival of Whales celebrates the southern migration of the California gray whales along the coastal bluffs of Dana Point with several events over two weekends: March 2-3 and March 9-10.

There are activities for everyone throughout the festival, including whale watching excursions, historic and marine science education, car shows, active water and land experiences, art, film and lots of live music—all conveniently connected via a free shuttle service.

Festival of Whales is a Dana Point community celebration and partnership with the Festival of Whales Committee of Dana Point Harbor merchants, the Chamber of Commerce, the OC Dana Point Harbor Department, the city of Dana Point and many individuals, clubs, nonprofit groups, businesses and sponsors.

Whatever your interests, I encourage you to take advantage of the many exciting activities during the twoweekend Festival of Whales. For more detailed day-byday event listings or to see the free shuttle route, turn the pages of this program or visit www.festivalofwhales.com.

DP

YOUTH IN ACTION

Local teens add energy and fresh perspective to Festival of Whales

This year’s top five designs submitted by Dana Hills students are on display at the Dana Point Community Center through March 2.

Shown here (L to R) are designs by winner Steven Kazarian and runners-up Frankie Michinok, Katie McAndrews, Bryan Emerson and Hasti Sharf. Photo by Brian Park

This year’s Festival of Whales logo contest winner Steven Kazarian (Dana Hills class of 2012) shows his winning design at the California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, Calif., where he is a freshman. Photo

by Brendan Buonsignore

As Dana Point celebrates the migration of the California gray whales past the landmark cliffs of the headlands, the Festival of Whales provides an impressive selection of fun and educational ways for young people—and others of all ages—to learn, as guests, about the majestic marine mammals. But, for the second year, the festival has expanded its behind-the-scenes participation of local youth.

Last year Dana Hills High School students were invited to submit artwork for the festival logo and to display other work at the festival art exhibit, Art in the Park. Both programs have carried on.

This year Dana Hills class of 2012 alum Steven Kazarian—now a freshman at the California Maritime Academy—was chosen and honored as the creator of this year’s logo and four runners-up were named.

Ninety art students from Dana Hills once again found inspiration during a photography fieldtrip—whale watching aboard the Dana Wharf vessel Dana Pride and exploring

the Ocean Institute’s tallship brig Pilgrim.

The program was also expanded for this year’s 42nd annual event to include more than visual arts. Culinary arts students will be competing in the chowder cook-off and the school is fielding three teams to compete in the sandsculpting contest.

So while exploring the many great events and exhibits— from listening to the marching band in the parade to tasting chowder to viewing art—take note of the abundance of talent and enthusiasm the teens of Dana Point add to the festival.

And don’t forget to make a point of visiting the Festival of Whales online at www.festivalofwhales.com and the Dana Point Times at www.danapointtimes.com to read the stories and see the artwork and photographs of these young people who add so much energy and fresh perspective to the city’s longest standing tradition. DP — Andrea Swayne

www.festivalofwhales.com

Photo by Nora Yeretzian

THE WHALES ON THE BUS GO ROUND AND ROUND...

Visit the Festival of Whales for less with OCTA and Metrolink

Environmentally- and economically-conscious travelers will be glad to know that the Orange County Transportation Authority and Metrolink will once again be offering special deals to and from the Festival of Whales.

For just $10, visitors can purchase a weekend pass, valid for system-wide travel from 7 p.m. Friday through 11:59 Sunday. Weekend passes can be purchased at any Metrolink station ticket vending machine.

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

For bicycle riders, all Metrolink cars can accommodate bikes—just look for one of Metrolink’s special bicycle cars marked with large yellow signs that read “Bicycle Car.” From San Juan Capistrano, riders can take the bikeway to Dana Point and the festival.

Full train and bus schedules can be found online at www. octa.net/metrolink/octa-promotions/festival-of-whales.

OCTA and Metrolink are also offering special discounts at local businesses: • Display your Metrolink ticket, OCTA bus pass or 91 Express Lane transponder with Dana Wharf Whale Watching or the Ocean Institute for 50 percent off whale watching excursion ticket prices. To make reservations, call Dana Wharf Whale Watching at 949.496.5764 or the Ocean Institute at 949.496.2274.

• Visitors to the Festival of Whales can stay overnight at the Dana Point Marina Inn for a special rate of $69, single or double occupancy. Make sure to mention the OCTA rate when you make reservations and show your ticket, bus pass or transponder when you check in. The Dana Point Marina Inn can be reached at 949.496.1203.

• Show your ticket, bus pass or transponder at The Coffee Importers when you buy one premium coffee and get a second one for free. The offer expires March 31. The Coffee Importers is located at 34531 Golden Lantern Street, in Mariners Village in Dana Point Harbor. DP 3

FESTIVAL EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS ARTS AND CULTURE

two for $10; need not be present to win. Funds will benefit the Dana Point Library Summer Children’s Reading Program. E15

Art in the Park March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Local artists along with art students from Dana Hills High School display a variety of works on the grassy areas at the corner of Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive. E12

Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

March 2, 3, 9, 10; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The Dana Point Fine Arts Association hosts an art show and sale on the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village.

Watercolor, oil, acrylic and photography by local artists will be available for purchase. A portion of the sales will be donated to the Dana Hills High School Art Department. E7

Historical Walking Tour of Town Center March 2,

3, 9, 10; 2 p.m. Meet a guide from the Historical Society—at the corner of Blue Lantern and PCH—for a historic Town Center walking tour of buildings, private homes and landmarks, circa 1924 to 1939. Event is free but donations will be accepted. E9

Polynesian Connection Festival March 9; 11 a.m.3 p.m. The Hula Connection, Senior Wish and the city of Dana Point present a day of Polynesian culture, music, dance and educational experiences on the stretch of lawn between Island Way and Baby Beach. Activities for kids such as lei making, Maori poi ball demonstrations and more will educate and entertain. The festival opens with a blessing by an official of the Juaneño/Acjachemen tribal nation, indigenous to the Dana Point area. E14 Public Reading: ‘Two Years Before the Mast’

March 8, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; March 9, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and March 10, 9 a.m.-noon The Dana Point Historical Society hosts the third annual public reading of Richard Henry Dana Jr’s Two Years Before the Mast at the Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive. Over 100 volunteer readers will read for eight to 10 minutes each. The event is free but donations will be gratefully accepted. E5

CLASSIC CARS So Cal Woodies March 2, noon-4 p.m.; March 3, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Woodie cars from the So Cal Woodie Club will be on display at the grassy areas along the Harbor walkway. Take a stroll and enjoy these iconic surf wagons of the past. E11 Whale of a Classic Car Display March 9, 10;

10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Cal Rod Car Club, formed in 1954 in the San Gabriel Valley, will display approximately 40 classics and hot rods. E11

FOOD Dana Point Restaurant Week March 1-10 The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present Dana Point Restaurant Week. The city’s most talented chefs will personalize their menus to celebrate the Festival of the Whales. Check www.festivalofwhales.com or www. dprestaurantweek.com for details.

Grunion Run Whale of a Pancake Breakfast

March 9; 7 a.m.-10 a.m. Pancake breakfast at Doheny State Beach. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for children under 12. Bring your Grunion Run bib and receive $1 off breakfast. Proceeds 4

E = See map on page 8

The new Polynesian Connection Festival will bring island culture to this year’s Festival of Whales. Courtesy photo

March 3; 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. OC Parks presents a competition on the sand at Baby Beach. Teams from families and friends to hard-core sand sculpting enthusiasts are welcome.

Sculpting areas are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Choose one of five categories: castles, whales and ocean creatures, pirates and ships, woodies and surfboards, or patriotic emblems. Judging begins at 2:30 p.m. with awards to follow. Bring buckets and tools. Dyes and stabilizers are not allowed—all natural. E15

will benefit the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association and the State Lifeguard Association. E16

LEARNING ABOUT WHALES AND THE OCEAN ENVIRONMENT

Whale of a BBQ March 3, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; March 9,

Art Lessons with Wyland March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-

11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Delicious barbecue specialties at affordable prices will be served adjacent to Baby Beach. Choose from tri-tip sandwiches, mouth-watering chicken sandwiches, scrumptious salads and more. E15

Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off March 3; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sample a variety of tasty chowders from local restaurants and organizations and then vote for your favorites along the Harbor walkway near Island Way. Cost is $5 for five tastes and $10 for 12. All proceeds will benefit Fish for Life, an organization that teaches fishing skills to people with special needs. E11 Whale of a Concert BBQ March 10; noon-5 p.m.

Concessions for scrumptious barbecue specialties will be available during the Whale of a Concert. A Spirits Garden will be available for those over 21 years old with a valid driver’s license. E15

VFW Whale of a Pancake Breakfast March 3; 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Start your day with a delicious pancake breakfast, raffle prizes and entertainment, hosted by VFW Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary at the OC Sailing & Event Center. Adults are $6 and children under 12 are $3. E8

FUN AND GAMES Diamond Dig March 3; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dig for buried treasure at the 4th annual Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club event at Baby Beach. Dress as a pirate and get a head start. Cost is $10 per shovel. Last year toys, bicycles and a diamond necklace were among the booty found. Proceeds benefit local children’s charities. E15 Street Fare March 2; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Dana Point

Chamber of Commerce invites you to the annual Street Fare for an unforgettable day of food, music and entertainment for the whole family. The carnival-style fare begins immediately following the parade at Dana Point La Plaza Park. E2

Whale of a Rubber Ducky Race March 3; 11 a.m.-

2 p.m. The Dana Point Women’s Club hosts this fun spin on a traditional “rubber ducky race” at Baby Beach. Duckies may be purchased in advance by calling 949.859.5706 or the day of the event at the onsite DPWC table. Prizes awarded to the top three finishers. Cost is $6 per duck or

10:45 a.m. Learn from renowned environmental artist, Wyland at a dockside video presentation and art lesson aboard Dana Wharf’s OCean Adventures catamaran.

Children can enter their art in a contest to receive a whale watching trip with Wyland. $5 per child. Proceeds benefit the Wyland Foundation. E3

Book Signing: ‘Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey’

March 9; 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Capt. Dave Anderson of Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari will sign copies of his book, Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey, inspired by true events. Readers join Lily on her adventures of discovery and wonder from Baja to Siberia while learning about a devastating problem that takes the lives of over 1,000 dolphins and whales worldwide every day. Books will be available for purchase and Capt. Dave will be giving away a free, signed copy. E4

Book Signing: ‘The Amazing Adventures of Captain Don’ March 2; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Stop by Dana Wharf

Sportfishing for a book signing by Captain Don himself. The first 100 children (10 and under) will also have a picture taken with him. Buy a second book and get an opportunity to spin the prize wheel. Book sale proceeds will benefit the Gray Whale Foundation. E3

Capt. Dave’s Kids’ Carnival March 9; noon-2 p.m.

Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari Kids’ Carnival offers fun for the whole “pod.” Drop by the Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive (near Baby Beach) for free activities, prizes, games, crafts, face painting and more. E4 Doheny State Beach Mobile Marine Mammal Museum March 10; 11a.m.-3p.m. A variety of genuine

marine mammal artifacts will be on display at the Doheny State Beach’s Visitor Center, just inside the park entry station, for attendees to learn and gain an appreciation of these magnificent creatures of the sea. Alert entrance station staff upon arrival so they can direct you to an appropriate parking location. This event is free. Please note: free vehicle parking at Doheny State Beach for the Marine Mammal Museum is limited to one hour only. E16

Marine Mammal Lecture Series March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Marine mammals are among the most beloved icons of the California coast and yet much of their life (Cont. on page 6) www.festivalofwhales.com

(Cont. from page 4) history and biology remains a mystery. Attend Dana Wharf’s Marine Mammal Lecture Series at Harpoon Henry’s to learn some of the latest discoveries about them.

Enjoy a continental breakfast as marine biologists and special guests present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals. March 2: Doug Thompson on Gray whales and San Ignacio Lagoon; March 3: Dennis Kelly on bottlenose dolphin and sea otters; March 9: Alisa Schulman-Janiger on killer whales and the Gray Whale Census; March 10: Todd Mansur on Gray whales and migration.

Following the lecture, board the OCean Adventures catamaran for whale watching. Lecture is free with purchase of the cruise and includes breakfast. Lecture and breakfast only is $5 per person, at the door. For tickets visit www.danawharf. com or call 949.496.5794. E17

Movie: ‘Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California’ March 9, 10; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit Capt. Dave’s

Dolphin & Whale Safari Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive (near Baby Beach) for an exclusive free viewing of Captain Dave’s award winning documentary, Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California. Signed DVDs will be available for purchase. Screenings will be held every hour. In 1995 Capt. Dave mounted an underwater camera and hydrophone on the bow of his boat and began taking his cameras on every trip to record what his passengers experienced. It took him five years to create the documentary, an experience that has forever changed his life.Throughout the day relax and enjoy the Dolphin Deck with the best view in the harbor. Sandwiches, snacks, ice cream and refreshments available for purchase. For more information call 949.488.2828 or see www.dolphinsafari.com. E4

Ocean Awareness Day March 3; 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association, Ocean Awareness Day features interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing ocean and environmental programs and issues, near Baby Beach at the OC Sailing & Events Center. E15

Ocean Institute’s World of Whales March 2, 3, 9, 10;

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a hands-on journey into the mysterious and fascinating world of whales allowing visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomena unique to these magnificent animals. There will be opportunities to examine how they communicate and eat, to see how pollution can affect them, learn about ongoing research and create fun whale-themed crafts. Additional activities include animal feedings, ROV driving and tide pool touch tanks. Admission is $6.50 for adults (13 and up) and $4.50 for children (3 -12); Children 2 and under and members are free. For more information, see www.ocean-institute.org. E6

Seashore Interpretive Family Hike March 2, 3, 9, 10;

times are based on tides Take a guided family tide pool hike through the Dana Point Marine Protected Area with Ocean Institute naturalists. Hikes are available on a first come, first served basis. Space is limited. Sign up at the front desk of the Ocean Institute. Free with paid admission. E6

Whale of a Beach Cleanup March 9; 9 a.m.-noon Bring work gloves and a recyclable bag or bucket and help clean up Doheny State Beach. Meet Ranger Vicki at Lifeguard Headquarters and learn more about how you can help maintain our precious coastal resources. E16 Whale Watching via Live Streaming Video

March 2, 3, 9, 10 Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari streams live video on www.whalewatchingtv.com from 6

Robertson, violinist Mira Khomik, tenor Joshua Guerrero and baritone Gregorio Gonzalez will be featured. Surfboard art by Paul Carter, Michael Brindley and Heather Ritts will also be on display. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students under 16 years, seniors over 65 and military with ID. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.danapointsymphony.com. E13

Whale of a Concert on the Water and BBQ

Marines from Camp Pendleton march in the 2012 Festival of Whales Parade. Photo by Andrea Swayne

their hi-tech catamaran on the open ocean. Stop by the Dolphin Deck throughout the day to watch. E4

Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure March 3, 9; 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. From “devil fish” to “friendliest whale,” explore how time and discovery have shaped man’s perception of whales. Join the Ocean Institute for a tallship sailing adventure and gain new insights into man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and the giants that roam our California coast. Non-member price is $40 for adults and $23 for children 12 and under. Members pay $36 for adults and $21 for children 12 and under. Minimum age is 4. For more information, see www.ocean-institute.org. E6

MERCHANDISE Festival T-shirts and Sweatshirts March 2, 3, 9, 10 Short- and long-sleeved T-shirts and sweatshirts will be on sale throughout the Harbor during both weekends of the festival and available for purchase online at www.festivalofwhales.com. Click on “store.” M

MOVIES Movie in the Park: ‘Flipper’ March 2; 6:30 p.m. Head

to the grassy area of Baby Beach for a free showing of the 1963 box office hit Flipper (PG) presented by the city of Dana Point Community Services and Parks Department and the County of Orange. Free popcorn will be served and hot beverages and snacks will be available for purchase. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic dinner and enjoy this family friendly movie at dusk. E15

MUSIC Harbor Music Series March 2, 3, 9, 10; noon-3 p.m.

A variety of music styles will be presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association in the Jolly Roger/Dana Wharf courtyard, the grassy area by Harpoon Henry’s, Mariner’s Village and Art in the Park. E10 KSBR 88.5 FM Jazz Live Remote March 2; 9 a.m.-3

p.m. Stop in and visit with the DJs and staff from Saddleback College Radio KSBR 88.5 and enjoy a morning “cup of jazz” followed by entertainment throughout the day in the Dana Wharf courtyard area. E3

Opera and the Ocean March 8; 7:30 p.m. The Dana

Point Symphony Orchestra presents “Opera and the Ocean” at St. Edwards Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera.

Concert features a new ocean-themed commission by composer Athena Adamopoulos and a video art commission from Alisa Lapidus of the LA Opera. Soprano Victoria

March 10, noon-5 p.m. The city of Dana Point and OC Dana Point Harbor present an outdoor concert at Baby Beach with bands performing atop a specially designed floating stage. The Dave Silver Band opens from noon to1 p.m., followed by the United States Air Force Mobility Rock Band from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Savor: a Tribute to Santana from 3:30 p.m. to 5 pm. Bring beach chairs, towels and blankets and enjoy an afternoon of musical entertainment.

Concessions for barbecue specialties will also be available, along with a Spirits Garden for those over 21. E15

OUTDOOR AND WATER SPORTS Festival of Whales Grunion Run March 9; 7:45 a.m.10 a.m. The fifth annual Grunion Run features a 10K at 7:45 a.m., 5K Run/Walk at 9 a.m., Kids’ 1K Run at 9:45 a.m. and awards at 10 a.m. Free pre-run shuttle service begins at 6 a.m. Proceeds benefit the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association, a nonprofit organization which supports interpretive, educational programs at Doheny State Beach.

For more information or to pre-register, visit www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com. E16 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Fishing Trip March 3, 10; clinic noon-12:30 p.m.; fishing trip 12:45 p.m.-5:45 p.m.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing invites all children to attend a dockside fishing clinic to learn hands-on angling techniques from the experts. Prizes will be raffled at the end of the lesson. Following the clinic Dana Wharf will run a fishing trip where kids 12 and under fish free including equipment.

Adults are $44 plus license and equipment. For reservations, call 949.496.5794. E3 Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup March 9; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Stand-up paddle with surfing legend Mickey Muñoz and friends at Baby Beach and enjoy a day of paddling fun, SUP clinics and camaraderie. The fifth annual event begins with the Fun Paddle around Harbor Island. There will also be a SUPcross. All participants receive a commemorative long sleeve T-shirt and a barbecue lunch. E15 Sailing Rides March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing—at the OC Sailing & Event Center—teaches passengers how to sail a Capri 14. Half-hour sessions are $15 per boat, three people max, ages 5 and up. Call 949.492.3035 for details. E8 Stand-Up Paddling Clinics March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.3 p.m. Join the SUP craze and learn why it’s the fastest growing water sport today. Westwind Sailing hosts 45-minute on-the-water clinics, on the hour, for ages 12 and up.

Cost is $10 per person. Call 949.492.3035 for details. E8

PARADE Festival of Whales Parade March 2; 10 a.m. The parade features floats, bands, horses, giant balloons, community organizations and more, related to the festival theme, “Magical Migration.” Parade route runs along Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern. E1 www.festivalofwhales.com

GETTING TO THE FESTIVAL Parking Shuttle Stop Event Whale Watching Excursions/Viewing Festival Merchandise Shuttle Route Parade Route Shuttle Route First Saturday

Walking Directions from OCTA Bus Stop For those guests that are utilizing the OCTA bus stops on PCH, you can reach the Festival by walking down Dana Point Harbor Drive to the Harbor’s Golden Lantern entrance area or you can enter Doheny State Park (direction sign at bus stop near bridge), walk along the green barrier fence, then proceed towards the beach to the marked Festival of whales shuttle stop. Ride the shuttle FREE to all event locations.

Parking and FREE Shuttle Information The FREE shuttle runs each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and services most parking lots and event locations.

Parking in the Harbor is free, but limited to four hours. Parking at Doheny State Park is $8 for the entire day.

Parade Day Shuttle (March 2) FREE shuttle service will be available one hour prior to and at the conclusion of the Festival of Whales Parade. Park in the Harbor and ride to the drop-off location for the northerly parade announcer stand.

At the conclusion of the Parade meet at the drop-off location and the shuttle will return you to the Harbor.

10K, 5K and 1K Grunion Run Shuttle (March 9) FREE shuttle service will begin at 6 a.m. with pick ups at the Ocean Institute, OC Sailing & Event Center and at Golden Lantern/ Dana Point Harbor Drive. Drops off directly at Doheny State Beach for the Grunion Run event. This shuttle will not service any other locations. Regular shuttle service will commence at 10 a.m.

Whale of a Concert Shuttle (March10) FREE shuttle service will extend until 6 p.m. on March 10.

EVENT SCHEDULE Saturday, March 2

E11 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.So Cal Woodies

E3

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. KSBR 88.5 FM Jazz – Live Remote

E17 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series

E7

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

E3

E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park E1

10 a.m. – Noon Festival of Whales Parade

E8

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics

E8

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides

E2 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Street Fare

E6

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute

E17 10 - 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series

E6

TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike

E6 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Ocean Institute

E4

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land

E6 TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike E8 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics E8 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides E3

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild

E15 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Awareness Day

Grunion Run - 10K Run/Walk 9 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run - 5K Run/Walk 9:45 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run - Kids’ 1K Run

Sunday, March 10 E5 9 a.m. – noon Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast

E15 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 5th Annual Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup

E7

E15 1 a.m. – 2 p.m. Mongoose Cup BBQ

E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park

E16 9 a.m. – Noon Whale of a Beach Cleanup – Festival of Whales Toast to the Coast

E11 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Whale of a Classic Car Display

E5

E7

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

E17 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series E6 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute E8 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics

E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park

E8 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides

E11 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Whale of a Classic Car Display

E3

E15 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Diamond Dig

E17 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series

E6 TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike

E15 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild

E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series

E6

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute

E4 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land

E15 Noon – 4 p.m. Whale of a BBQ

E6

TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike

E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series

E3

Noon – 12:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Kids Free Fishing Clinic

E8

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics

12:45 p.m.–5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Kids Free Fishing Trip

E4 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land and Movie Viewing

E8

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides

E3

2 p.m.– 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour

E3

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild

Noon – 12:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Kids Free Fishing Clinic

E3

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

E4

12:45 p.m.– 5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Kids Free Fishing Trip

Friday, March 8

E14 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Polynesian Connection

E11 Noon – 4 p.m. So Cal Woodies E3

1 p.m.– 3 p.m. Dana Wharf Free Book Signing and Fun Prizes

E9 2 p.m.– 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour

E3 E9 E6

E15 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Movie in the Park

Sunday, March 3 E8 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. VFW Whale of a Pancake Breakfast, Raffle and Entertainment E15 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition E7

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park E11 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 2nd Annual Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off

www.festivalofwhales.com

E5

1 p.m.– 5 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of TwoYears Before the Mast

E13 7:30 p.m.– 9 p.m. Dana Point Symphony – Opera and the Ocean

Saturday, March 9 E16 6 a.m.-10 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run FREE Shuttle Service 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run Pancake Breakfast 7:45 a.m. Festival of Whales

E4

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land and Movie Viewing

Noon – 2 p.m. Captain Dave’s Kids Carnival

E16 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Doheny State Beach Mobile Marine Mammal Museum

E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series E15 Noon – 5 p.m. Whale of a Concert on the Water and BBQ E9 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour

E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series E4

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Win a Free Book at Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari

E9

2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour

E6

2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 9

TRACKING THE MIGRATION Scientists use visual observation and photography to track individual gray whales during their annual migratory journey

During the Festival of Whales, keep your eye—and camera—out for the Eastern North Pacific (California) gray whale making its long journey down the coast of California. You’ll be witnessing the longest annual migration (10,000-12,000 miles) of any mammal on Earth, in much the same way scientists observe and track the

By Kayla Causey whale population.

The gray whale is a baleen whale that lives to be 50-70 years old and can reach a length of about 50 feet. Every October, after filling up on tiny crustaceans buried in the sea floor, 20,000 gray whales leave the Bering and Chukchi Seas of Alaska to find mates and birth calves in the warm—and orca-free—lagoons of Baja, Mexico. Gray whales fast during their entire journey—an incredibly taxing feat for a female whale who will soon birth and nurse a 13-foot, 2,000-pound calf.

In California, we’re privileged to often see migrating gray whales right from our shores, thanks to their use of the coastline for navigation and protection from predators.

Once they reach the lagoons between late December and early February, gray whales spend the next few months birthing and nursing calves and concluding their breeding season.

In February and March, the first whales begin the northbound migration back to Alaska. Usually these are pregnant females. Mothers—referred to as cows—with

The “knuckles” on the back of a whale are one of the physical features researchers use to identify and study individual animals.

Photo courtesy of James Gresham

newborn calves are the last to leave, and do so only when their calves are ready for the long journey home, usually in late March to mid-April.

A gray whale nurses her calf for the entire journey up the coast, eating very little herself until she returns to the feeding grounds off of Alaska. Her milk is over 50 percent milk fat—think half-n-half coffee creamer—and her calf consumes between 50 and 80 gallons a day—about the amount contained in a large barrel. This continues for six to seven months. As a result, she loses over 30 percent of her body weight on the northbound migration.

Once again in the cold waters of the Arctic, whales resume feeding. They do so by plowing up the ocean floor and filtering the mud and sand for crustaceans. Their “filter” is about 150 baleen plates, which are overlapping layers of hair-like bristles made of keratin—much like human fingernails—on the inside of their mouths. One whale alone will plow about 1-acre of sea floor between May and October.

Nearly hunted to extinction in the 1850s and early 1900s, gray whales were protected under the Endangered Species Act in 1969. They have since been removed after recovering to numbers in excess of 21,000. However, scientists continue to monitor the abundance of this population for two related reasons: They are important

“ecosystem engineers” because they redistribute large amounts of material when plowing up the seafloor, making food available for other marine species, and their annual migration makes them very vulnerable to environmental conditions.

For instance, if Arctic sea ice breaks up very late in the spring, the feeding season is shortened and females can not store the fat necessary to maintain a pregnancy. As a result, birthing rates decline and low birth weight calves often don’t survive the northbound migration. We saw this pattern in 1999-2001 (data provided by Wayne Perryman of the National Marine Fisheries Service). Because gray whales are such an important part of their ecosystem, even a short-term variation in feeding patterns can have longterm impacts on the population and its environment.

How do scientists track individual whales for study?

One method we use to study these whales is to track individuals during their migration using photo-identification techniques. Rather than “tagging” a few animals with trackers, scientists photograph as many gray whales as they can. Then we use the photos to take measurements of these whales’ “knuckles,” the ridges on their back where you might expect a dorsal fin to be. We can use the relative distance between these ridges to assign a “dorsal ratio” as an identification number for animals we photograph. Data can then be used to determine re-sighting rates for whales migrating through Dana Point. This helps us understand whether the same whale follows the same route during each leg of the migration and/or year after year. We can also estimate the cumulative number of gray whales that migrate off of Dana Point. This information is important in helping scientists determine the role that our local waters play in the gray whale’s great migration.

Kayla Causey received her Ph.D. from Florida Atlantic University in 2010. Currently, she is the scientific advisor for the Gulf of Catalina Gray Whale Preservation and Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that educates children about the Gray Whale while engaging them in research. Causey is also director and founder of the Coastal Dolphins of Orange County (CDOC) Project and a lecturer at CSU Fullerton. On the weekends, you will find her working as a naturalist on whale watching adventures. DP

PARK AT THE PARK, WALK WITH THE WHALES Doheny State Beach offers ample $8 all-day parking, whale sightings guaranteed When it comes to great adventures, sometimes getting there is a big part of the fun. And this year’s Festival of Whales is no exception.

Doheny State Beach has not only taken some of the stress out of parking but also added a fun way to begin your festival adventure—the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association Whale Walk, where whale sightings are guaranteed.

DSBIA volunteers began to return life-sized paintings of whales to the walkways along Doheny Beach in January.

They started with three—a California gray whale, an orca and a humpback—and will be adding more species of whales and dolphins in the coming months.

The Whale Walk was a longstanding tradition at the park, absent for the past six years since being paved over during walkway maintenance.

Now children once again will be delighted by seeing how they “measure up” to the behemoth marine mammals and 10

giving their parents a nice photo op upon arrival to the festival.

The Doheny parking lot—enter at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Park Lantern—is offering all-day parking for only $8. Most Harbor lots are four-hour maximum and are monitored by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

Not only is this a whale of a deal, it’s also a great way to avoid the stress of having to continually watch the clock while discovering everything the festival has to offer. And free shuttle pick-ups to and from events and attractions are scheduled at 15-minute intervals.

So start your visit off right—park at the park, walk with the whales, ride the free shuttle and enjoy a worry-free day at the festival.

For more information about the Whale Walk and the DSBIA—including how to become a volunteer—visit www. dohenystatebeach.org. DP —Andrea Swayne

Volunteer K.C. Kinnings puts the finishing touches on the new Whale Walk’s orca. Photo courtesy of Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association

www.festivalofwhales.com

WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURES Dana Wharf Whale Watching

The originator of whale watching in Orange County, Dana Wharf, has hosted excursions at sea since 1971. Take an adventure cruise to see the California gray whales in their natural environment. Trips offer fun for all ages and sightings of whales or dolphins are guaranteed or come back again and ride free. Boats depart every hour from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during festival weekends. Each trip runs for approximately two hours. Back by popular demand, the Whale of a Deal returns with $15 seats on every 8 a.m. weekend departure. For other departure times, adults are $45, seniors and military $35, children 3-12 years $25 and free under 2.

Two-hour whale watching excursions are available following the Marine Mammal Lectures both weekends at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. A variety of guest marine biologists will present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals aboard their 63-foot, state-of-the-art OCean Adventures catamaran, featuring an incredibly spacious viewing deck and full-service deli-style gallery. Prior to the 11:30 a.m. departure, there will be a special lecture session from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and a continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s will be included with all 11:30 a.m. reservations. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for children 3-12 years and free for children under 2. (No senior rate) For reservations call 800.979.3370 or 800.590.9994 or visit www.danawharf.com. Use promo code FOW13 to save $8 per adult fare, not valid on 8 a.m. special.

Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari

The most unique whale watch in the world lets visitors get eye-to-eye with wild dolphins and whales—without getting wet—in two exclusive underwater viewing pods on board a high-speed, high-tech, sailing catamaran. The boat carries only 49 passengers so trips are never crowded. See and hear below the surface with an underwater camera and hydrophone while an experienced marine naturalist narrates how the animals live. Trips are often narrated by Capt. Dave Anderson himself, whose award winning film on wild dolphins and whales has drawn people from all over the world to Dana Point. The fronts of the boats are low to the water to get you up close and personal with the animals. And the onboard whale and dolphin micro-museum is fun and educational. Trips are broadcast live on www.whalewatchingtv. com, so you can wave to family and friends watching online from home. And one of the best features, Mrs. Captain Dave’s triple fudge brownies are served complimentary on every safari. Mention this ad for a 10 percent discount.

Good during Festival of Whales only. Call 949.488.2828 or visit www.dolphinsafari.com for more information and reservations.

Ocean Institute Marine Mammal Cruises and Onboard Lab

More than just a whale watch, this cruise introduces participants to whales and many other marine animals us-

ing state-of-the-art equipment including satellites, plankton nets, sediment samplers and video microscopes. Experience these magnificent animals and learn about feeding strategies, migration and behavior patterns. Cruise times are 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on festival weekends. Member pricing is $22 for adults and $19 for children 4-12 years old. Nonmember is $35 for adults and $22 for children 4-12. Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the cruise ticket purchase. For more information, call 949.496.2274 or go to www.ocean-institute.org.

Headlands Conservation Park

Interested in catching a glimpse of these majestic leviathans from land? Be sure to visit the Headlands Conservation Park and Interpretive Center. Situated high atop the 200-foot cliffs on the headlands, the park trails and scenic overlooks offer a great vantage point for viewing passing whales. The three-mile trail system is open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset and the Interpretive Center hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Nature Interpretive Center is located adjacent to the Headlands Conservation Park, at the end of Green Lantern. Limited free parking available. From Dana Point Harbor visitors may take a free shuttle to the Ocean Institute and then proceed up Cove Road to the park. It’s a good work out for those looking for a little adventure and some spectacular views. For more information, log on to www.danapoint.org and click on the “visitors” button then on “nature interpretive center.” DP

This photo shows a gray whale “spy hopping’ to have a look at whale watchers aboard the Dana Wharf Vessel Dana Pride. Photo by Christina de la Fuente for www.danawharf.com

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www.festivalofwhales.com

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Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY The only directory featuring San Juan Capistrano businesses exclusively ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

PLUMBING

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

BANKING

JEWELER

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

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

LANDSCAPING

COMPUTER SERVICES

Vermeulen’s Landscaping Inc. San Clemente Computer & Network Services bvland@cox.net daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581

949.661.0967

GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

949.350.4692

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

PHOTO & DIGITAL LAB

ELECTRICIANS

San Juan Photo & Digital 949.661.5668 Excel Electric 949.493.7769 32301 Camino Capistrano, www.sjcphotodigital.com 32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, www.excelelectric.com

949.499.4464 949.496.9731

YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100!

Write-up of 50 words with logo.

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

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

MOLD REMOVAL

COINS

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

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

949.212.0499

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

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

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

WINDOW CLEANING/PRESSURE WASHING Bayside Window Cleaning, Inc. 949.215.2323 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com Clear Windows 949.485.8793 San Clemente, www.clearwindows-llc.com

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This handy, go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7. Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or email aedwards@thecapistranodispatch.com.

CLASSIFIEDS SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT WWW.THECAPISTRANODISPATCH.COM FOR SALE SKATEBOARD/LONGBOARD EQUIPMENT & DRE BEATS FOR SALE Sector 9 Roxanne $100 (Great Condition); Jet Peanut $15; Jet Revolver $10; Gunmetal Trucks $40; Comet Grease Hammer $110 (Great Condition); Rad Releases 81a $35; Sector 9 Race Forms $35; Abec 11 Free Rides $10; Cult Classics (green) $25; Blue Sector 9 Race Forms (slide) $15. Dr. Dre Beats Studios (red) $200. Call 949.533.9761 for more info

HELP WANTED PET STYLIST/GROOMING SALON ASSOCIATE Fetch your future! If you’re passionate about pets and want to build a challenging career with the leading pet retailer, why not combine your love for pets with a rewarding career at PetSmart? PetSmart is the nation’s largest specialty retailer of services and solutions for the lifetime needs of pets. We are currently seeking candidates that desire a challenging and rewarding career providing exceptional customer service, working as part of a team, and providing care to all pets and their parents. We provide an extensive training program and are seeking candidates who support our vision to provide Total Lifetime Care for every pet, every parent, every time. Pet stylists will be required to pass a technical assessment. Individuals with no grooming experience are encouraged to apply for the Bather

position (extensive training is provided to move up to a Pet Stylist position). Responsibilities include: Booking appointments and greeting pets upon checkin; Answering pet parents questions and finding solutions for their individual needs; Bathe, brush and dry dogs; Cleaning ears, clipping nails, and performing other needed services ; Grooming dogs to pet parent satisfaction; Strict adherence to all PetSmart policies and procedures to ensure the safety of all pets in our salons; Providing excellent service to pets and pet parents; Maintaining salon appearance standards; Being able to work flexible hours (including evenings, weekends, and holidays). To Apply: Go to www.petsmartjobs.com and enter your zip code.

Click on Store 99 San Juan Capistrano and complete and application.

SERVICES LOCAL HOUSEKEEPER OR OFFICE CLEANING Reliable, affordable, meticulous. Excellent references.

949-456-2376

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 5pm Monday

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

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BAD SEED 8 p.m. Play at Camino Real Playhouse that ponders: Can evil be inherited? $18.

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

RIBBON CUTTING AND GRAND OPENING 5 p.m.6 p.m. Grand opening of The Olive’s Branch Mediterranean Grill with the SJC Chamber. 31105 Rancho Viejo Rd. #C13, 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

THE ULTIMATE STONES 8 p.m. Rolling Stones tribute plus Strange Days, A Tribute to The Doors, at The Coach House. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

saturday

FRUIT TREE CARE WORKSHOP 11 a.m. Learn about fruit tree care and culture at The Ecology Center. Admission $10 members, $15 non-members.

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

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JOHN SLOANE 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.

WILDFLOWER WALK 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Local wildflower expert Bob Allen will lead an exploration at The Reserve/ Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. $5-$10.

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

tuesday

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DJ PAUL 8:30 p.m. Live DJ, Taco Tuesday and more fun at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

ISRAEL VIBRATIONS 8 p.m. The Coach House. Tickets $20-$23. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch February 22–March 7, 2013

AT THE MOVIES: ‘SAFE HAVEN’ SUSPENSEFUL BUT SACCHARINE Besides the setting of the Carolinas, there’s always a certain tragic theme in between the romance of Nicholas Sparks’ books and film adaptations. In A Walk to Remember (2002), it was leukemia; in The Notebook (2004), it was Alzheimer’s; in Dear John (2010), it was the Iraq War. In this February’s Safe Haven, the tragedy is a bit less depressing and more suspenseful (a first for an author whose stories usually rely on angst and drama for effect). Katie (Julianne Hough) is on the run from a cop (David Lyons) who is convinced she’s behind a murder. She makes her way to a small North Carolina town. There she meets and befriends a shop owner named Alex (Josh Duhamel) and his kids (Noah Lomax and Mimi Kirkland). Right when Katie and Alex begin to have feelings for each other, the policeman discovers where she is. Cobie Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel in Safe Haven. © 2012 Relativity Media. All Rights Reserved.

Smulders co-stars in director Lasse Hallström’s second Sparks adaptation (he also directed Dear John). While previous films like John and The Notebook paired up future movie stars like Ryan Gosling with Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum with Amanda Seyfried, Safe Haven features two leads that lack the star appeal and chemistry to carry the film. Couple that with a slow first act and an ending that is the definition of saccharine and Safe Haven seems a step below its predecessors. —Megan Bianco

wednesday

MICROBREWS BY THE MISSION 4 p.m.8 p.m. A 14-venue “pub crawl” featuring seasonal micro/craft brews for $4, live music, food/ appetizers and more in downtown San Juan Capistrano.

Camino Capistrano and Ortega Highway, 949.493.4700, www.facebook.com/microbrewsbythemission.

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WIN FREE TICKETS! The first person to email us with Dispatch Free Concert Tix in the subject line will receive a free pair of tickets from The Coach House to see Marcus Foster on Wednesday, Feb. 27. Include your name and phone number. EMAIL: tickets@thecapistranodispatch.com

thursday

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

LIQUID COURAGE DUO 6 p.m. Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

friday

01

DAVID LINDLEY 8 p.m. The Coach House. Tickets $20.

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

BENNY CHADWICK AND FRIENDS 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

RUN FOR A CAUSE 9 a.m.

In Balance Pilates and Fitness presents a 10k and 5k run to help animals with all donations and proceeds gifted to local animal shelters. Registration fee: Clean blankets and towels, un-opened bags of food or a minimum $5 donation. 31473 Rancho Viejo Rd, San Juan Capistrano, 949.878.2213, inbalancepilatesstudio.com.

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THE ARK OF SAN JUAN CAT ADOPTION 12 p.m.4 p.m. The Ark has rescued cats for adoption at PetSmart in the Costco plaza. 33963 Doheny Park Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.388.0034, www.arkofsanjuan.org.

Page 10

FAMILY FILM FEATURE 10 a.m. Watch Hotel Transylvania at the San Juan Capistrano Library. Free admission and popcorn. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

sunday

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

Meet at the train depot on Verdugo Street. $2 adults, $1 children. 949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

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tuesday

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.

05

wednesday

NETWORK BREAKFAST MIXER 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m. Chamber event at The Vintage Steak House 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

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MISSION GARDEN TOURS 10 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

Tours of the Mission gardens. $5–$9 plus $1-$2 for tour.

26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

THE BISHOP’S CHESS CLUB 6 p.m. The Bishop’s Chess Club meets at the library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

thursday

07

READ TO A DOG WITH BARK 3 p.m. Kids can practice reading skills to a therapy dog at the library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.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 Tuesday 2.26

Thursday 3.7

Friday 3.1

Cultural Heritage Commission Meeting 5 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

Stress Education Seminar 10 a.m.

A free public seminar hosted by Dr. Tim Swift from Swift Health Chiropractic about how stress affects the body. Light refreshments will be provided. To reserve a seat, call 949.493.1171. Community Center, 25925 Camino Del Avion.

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.

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

Tuesday 3.5 City Council, Housing Advisory and Successor Agency Meeting 6 p.m.

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

Design Review Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www. sanjuancapistrano.org.

Friday 3.8 Next regular issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes

GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 By Tom Blake

From Adversity to Opportunity Sometimes vacations don’t go as planned but turn out more memorable

F

or Christmas, my partner Greta surprised me with an early Valentine’s gift, a vacation in Hawaii. Turns out, her daughter Tammi and son-in-law Stephen are ON LIFE AND converting their Oahu LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake condo from a regular rental to a vacation rental and Greta wanted to be the first to rent it—she booked it for the month of February.

The property is located in the Ko Olina resort, West Oahu, about 20 minutes from Pearl Harbor, where the spectacular Disney Aulani Hotel opened in October 2011.

A few years before, Tammi and Stephen lived in the condo when he was based at Kaneohe in the Marine Corps.

When they returned to the states five years ago, they shipped their furniture to the mainland.

Tammi and Stephen decided to ship the furniture back to Hawaii because it fit so perfectly; it was scheduled to arrive January 14. They arrived in midJanuary to ensure everything would be ready for our February arrival. The shipping company informed them a California dock strike would delay the furniture by a “few” days.

Greta and I flew from San Diego to Honolulu on February 5. Stephen and Tammi met us at the airport with long faces. The furniture had not arrived; it was three weeks late. Greta laughed and said, “We’ll make the best of it,” even though there was no furniture.

The Capistrano Dispatch February 22–March 7, 2013

Well, that’s not entirely true. There were four outdoor patio chairs and a small end table acquired at a furniture liquidation sale. And there was one twin-sized mattress, which Tammi and Stephen insisted we sleep on. They slept on the floor in another bedroom. They purchased new beach towels and sheets so we had the essentials.

There was no TV, Internet, living room or dining room furniture and no plates or kitchen utensils. All of that was aboard a ship. There was, however, a refrigerator and microwave.

Adversity often turns into opportunity.

We had a blast and lots of laughs while adapting. Stephen and Tammi acquired an electric golf cart so we could get around the Ko Olina resort in open-air fashion. Near the Aulani Hotel, a new small market opened with all the necessities one could want, wine, vegetables, fruit, cheese, hot dogs and more wine.

It’s funny how things work out. In January, I went through some of my mom’s old belongings and placed an antique paring knife and spatula in my suitcase, but had forgotten about them.

Mom had rewrapped the handle of the knife with black electrical tape over and over again, instead of discarding it, circa 65 years ago. When I opened my bag in Hawaii, I discovered the two utensils.

Wow, did they ever come in handy. We used them for every meal.

In nearby Kapolei—close to the former Barber’s Point Naval Air Station— there is a Costco, Home Depot, Target and most importantly a Starbucks with free Wi-Fi, which is where Stephen and I went for a couple of hours a day to

conduct Internet business.

At night, we would go to the homeowners’ association swimming pool and cook on the outdoor barbeque equipment. With plastic silverware and paper plates we did just fine dining poolside.

Instead of watching TV, we’d talk for hours and meet new friends. We felt compassion for the people in the Northeastern U.S. who were getting hammered by the snow and ice storm.

And, compared to the vacationing passengers on board the dead-in-the-water Carnival Triumph cruise ship, who were adrift without power in putrid sanitary conditions, we were in nirvana.

Greta and I loved taking the golf cart to a place called “The Secret Beach,” a small sandy cove, inaccessible by car, where there were never more than two or three people at a time. We swam and snorkeled there amid at least eight curious and friendly sea turtles.

On the weekend, a narrow-gauge, Oahu Railway train ran near “The Secret Beach.” We wouldn’t have seen it had we had not been for the golf cart.

Page 12

February was wedding month in Ko Olina (not for us). Each day, we watched up to six weddings on the beach near the big hotels. The couples were mainly Japanese and the same photographer kept bringing them to the same photo spot.

Each morning, Tammi or Stephen would check the furniture status with the shipping company, but it was the same old excuse. Finally, on Wednesday, February 13, when I was on an airplane flying home, the furniture was delivered.

But, the legs to the dining room table were missing. They arrived the next day.

It was a great relief for Tammi and Stephen to have their vacation rental condo fully equipped with all of the conveniences of home, but we all agreed, it was almost as much fun being in camping mode.

To comment: tompblake@gmail.com.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at www.findingloveafter50.com. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Moments In Time by Jan Siegel

Business as Usual for the Chamber of Commerce T

he citizens of San Juan Capistrano have always come together for the common good of the community.

That is how the Chamber of Commerce first appeared in our town in 1923 for the purpose of supporting worthwhile projects. The first work undertaken by the Chamber was the building of the Ortega Highway. To help keep business in town during the construction, the Chamber staged weekend events to keep the downtown viable.

The first president of the Chamber was R.W. Whitaker, who was a banker in town. The original board of directors read like a who’s who of San Juan Capistrano history: J. S. Malcolm, C. L. Congdon, Walt Congdon, Dr. Paul Esslinger, C.A .Hankey, O.J. Guilbert, F.A. Stoffel and Father St. John O’Sullivan.

Unfortunately, at the height of the Depression, the bank failed and many local businesses followed. As a result, after the completion of the Ortega Highway, the Chamber of Commerce disappeared.

In 1948, a few San Juan Capistrano businessmen formed a luncheon group and it became the San Juan Business As-

sociation. Paul Phelps, Bart Conners and Harold Smith were among the leaders of the group and Phelps was the first president. Art Morria, Fred Newhart, Eugene Streit , William Steele MOMENTS and Charles Ruerup folIN TIME

By Jan Siegel lowed as presidents.

It was from this membership that the Chamber was reestablished in San Juan Capistrano.

Stan Geach was the first president followed by Larry Hernandez, who was instrumental in getting the downtown area rezoned with the help of the county planning commission.

Bill Webb’s term as president aimed at beautification and a demonstration of civic pride. In 1959, the Chamber hired Mrs. Otheto Weston, an artist, to make the buildings in town maintain an early California appearance. According to Pam Gibson in “Two Hundred Years in San Juan Capistrano,” the idea was “backed by a petition drive to encourage the Board of Supervisors to create an architectural control committee

to advise them on San Juan Capistrano projects.” The Chamber formed a promotion plan to attract tourists, which was, at that time, our number one industry.

C. Fulton Shaw’s year saw the first of the annual Swallows Day fiestas. Jose Rosan was head of the Chamber at the time of the town’s incorporation in 1961.

It was the Chamber that had started a full-scale study in May 1960 that eventually led to the incorporation of San Juan Capistrano.

In 1963, one of Chamber President Gerald Gaffney’s goals was to encourage an independent Historical Society.

There was a Historical Committee within the Chamber, but it was Gaffney who felt that a larger group would be beneficial to the town’s history. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society.

For the past 90 years, the Chamber has played an important role in every important aspect of our community’s growth. For the past 65 years that role has been continuous. Today, the Chamber is involved in the I-5/Ortega project, just as the founders were involved in the

Ortega Project in 1923, and the redevelopment of the downtown, much as it was in 1948. You can spend a Moment in Time and visit the Chamber’s office at 31421 La Matanza and discover how they see our community now and in the future.

A 26-year resident of San Juan Capistrano, Jan Siegel has served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 11 years and has been a volunteer guide for the Historical Society’s Architectural Walking Tour for 15 years. She was named Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007.

In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editor@ thecapistranodispatch.com. CD

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

GAME OF THE WEEK: GIRLS BASKETBALL, JSERRA VS. SERRA, FEBRUARY 23, 7 P.M.

For the second time in three years the a 74-38 win against Workman.

JSerra girls basketball team finds themIn the Lions February 20 quarterfinals selves in the semifinals of the CIF-SS playgame against Bishop Montgomery, it was offs. On February 23 the Lions will square senior guard August Touchard who led the off against Serra of Gardena to see who will team to a close 61-58 victory. Touchard play for the CIF-SS Division 4AA Champiscorched Bishop Montgomery for a gameonship. The game will be at Serra and tip-off high 20 points and seven assists. Miller is set for 7 p.m. was also effective on offense and tallied 18 The Lions stormed their way through points, knocking down two 3-pointers. Methe first two rounds of the playoffs, earngan House controlled the glass for the Lions ing convincing wins over San Marino and and pulled in a team-high 13 rebounds.

JSerra senior guard August Workman on February 14 and February 16, Serra of Gardena has won their three Touchard. Courtesy photo respectively. previous contests by at least a 13-point Coco Miller and Courtney Vaccher each scored 14 margin and is led by senior guard Deandrea Toler, who is points in the Lions first round 60-26 win over San Marino averaging a team high 16.6 points per game in the playoffs. and Miller followed that up with a 28-point performance in —Steve Breazeale

San Juan CIF-SS Championship Roundup

By Steve Breazeale The Capistrano Dispatch

I

t’s playoff time for the San Juan area prep sports teams. Here’s a recap of the past two weeks’ worth of action along with a look ahead. Make sure to follow our sports section on Twitter @SouthOCsports for live playoff game updates, news and more.

St. Margaret’s Girls Soccer on a Roll The St. Margaret’s girls soccer team has not conceded a goal since January 21 and are right in the middle of the CIF-SS Division 5 title race. The team was set to host Cabrillo-Lompac in the quarterfinals on February 21.

Results were not available at press time.

Six goals separated the Tartans from their first round opponent, Tahquitz, on February 14. The Tartans’ Allie Frost scored a team-high three goals and recorded two assists.

The goals did not come so easy for the Tartans in their next match, which resulted in a 1-0 win against Santa Fe in the second round on February 19. Tartans goalie Ellie Schwartz had five saves to preserve the Tartans eighth consecutive shutout.

If the Tartans get past Cabrillo-Lompac, they will play the winner of San Marino vs. Valley ChristianCerritos in the semifinals on February 26.

Lions Get Past Edison 1-0, Set to Host Quarterfinal Match Junior Jonathan Fabulich connected with sophomore Ether Bustos to produce the winning goal in the JSerra boys soccer 1-0 second round win over Edison on February 20. The win launched the Lions into the quarterfinals of the CIF-SS playoffs for the third time in four seasons.

JSerra will now host Palos Verdes on February 22 at 5 p.m.

The Lions got in to the second round by defeating Valley View 3-0 in the first round on February 15.

Senior Alex Duarte struck for two goals in the win.

Late Goal Bounces Stallions from Playoffs Playing host to Rancho Cucamonga in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships, the San Juan Hills girls soccer team conceded a late second half goal to their opponents and were upset 1-0.

Rancho Cucamonga, who came in as an unseeded team out of the Baseline League, went on to defeat No. 2 seeded Dana Hills in the second round and was set to play Chaminade in the quarterfinals on FebruThe Capistrano Dispatch February 22–March 7, 2013

Alexis Leon (2) and the St. Margaret’s girls soccer team are poised for a deep run in the CIF-SS Division 5 playoffs. Courtesy photo

ary 21. Results were not available at press time.

Warriors Fall 54-48 to Mission Prep After a successful season that saw them claim the San Joaquin League title, the Saddleback Valley Christian boys basketball team lost 54-48 to Mission Prep in the CIF-SS Division 5AA Championship quarterfinals on February 19.

The Warriors blew out visiting Arrowhead Christian 79-29 in the first round on February 13 and held off Yeshiva for a 59-54 second round win on February 14.

The loss to Mission Prep snapped a 15-game win streak for the Warriors, whose last loss came back on December 29.

Brentwood’s Offense Too Much for Tartans in Quarterfinals The St. Margaret’s boys basketball team traveled to play Brentwood in the quarterfinals of the CIF-SS Division 4A Championships but couldn’t match the firepower of the home teams’ top players and fell, 78-57.

Brentwood was led by highly touted junior point guard Tra Holder, who scored 20 points. Holder’s teammate, senior Leland King, scored a game-high 22 points.

Tartans standout sophomore Brent Cahill had a solid game and scored 17 points, hitting one shot from beyond the arc.

Buzzer-Beater Sinks Lions After making a late push to get back into their quarterfinal matchup against Serra of Gardena on February 19, the JSerra boys basketball team saw a buzzer-beating 3-pointer from Page 14

FIELD SET FOR BORAS BASEBALL CLASSIC On February 19 the Boras Corporation officially announced the elite 32-team field for the first ever Boras Baseball Classic, to be held April 1 through April 5, with JSerra Catholic High School serving as one of the tournaments two southern venues.

The Boras Corporation was founded by high-profile sports agent Scott Boras, whose clientele include Major League Baseball stars such as Alex Rodriguez and Prince Fielder.

Several local high school baseball teams will be on hand to compete over the five-day span, including: JSerra, Mater Dei, El Toro and Canyon (Anaheim).

The Lions will begin round one play with a game against El Camino Real on April 1 at JSerra at 6 p.m.

For a full schedule of games visit www.borasclassic. com CD opponent Jeremy Wright drop to give Serra a 69-66 victory.

JSerra trailed Serra 53-42 to start the fourth quarter but began gaining momentum late in the game. The Lions eventually tied things up in the fourth but couldn’t close the door on Serra, who relied on the late game heroics of Wright to move on to the semifinals.

McFadden Scores 20 in Stallions Loss to No. 1 Leuzinger San Juan Hills standout sophomore forward Vincent McFadden dropped a team-high 20 points against Leuzinger in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 3AA Championships, but it wasn’t enough to topple the No. 1 seeded team out of Lawndale and the Stallions went on to lose 71-54.

San Juan Hills junior center Isaiah Barnes tied his season-high points total with 11 in the loss.

Warriors Girls Soccer Loses in PK’s Despite scoring three goals against University Prep on the road in the second round of the CIF-SS Division 7 Championships on February 19, the Saddleback Valley Christian girls soccer team was bested 3-2 in penalty kicks, denying them a trip to the quarterfinals.

The Warriors held a comfortable 2-0 lead heading into the second half of play, but University Prep’s offense suddenly erupted for three goals while Saddleback Valley Christian was only able to counter with one. The resulting overtime produced no goals and the home team went on to win kicking from the spot in penalties. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com