December 27, 2013

LAST CHANCE! VOTE FOR THE “BEST OF SAN JUAN” AT THECAPISTRANODISPATCH.COM

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE DECEMBER 27, 2013-JANUARY 9, 2014 FOUNDED IN 2002

VOLUME 11, ISSUE 24

2013: A Year in Review

A look back at the biggest headlines this past year E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Newspapers Return to City Hall, CUSD Superintendent Retires and More

Best of the Sheriff’s Blotter: A Recap of the Crime and Follies in 2013

San Juan Area Winter Prep Sports Preview: Part 2

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 6

SPORTS/PAGE 17

EYE ON SJC

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SAN CLEMENTE San Clemente property owners have narrowly approved the renewal of the city’s Clean Ocean Fee. City Clerk Joanne Baade said ballots indicated a majority of property owners who returned ballots actually rejected the renewal, by a vote of 5,709 to 6,094. However, because votes of timeshare unit votes are calculated at a value of 1/50 of a vote, the result flipped, with 5,005.36 yays to 4,436.68 nays. The vote approves the first fee increase in the program’s history. The fee pays for ongoing city efforts to reduce the effects of urban runoff, including operations of the treatment system located near Poche Beach, ongoing street sweeping, catch basin cleaning and other activities. The fund also supports efforts of other city departments to reduce runoff and increase water conservation. Had the vote failed, the city could have had to pay for these from the general fund.

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 TOWN S

A man suspected of running a drug lab in a Capistrano Beach garage died in a hospital last Friday from injuries sustained in an explosion last month, authorities have confirmed. Lee Haumea Sermur, 31, died at Western Medical Center in Santa Ana Friday, December 13 at 2:56 p.m., according to the Orange County Coroner’s Division.

Orange County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Lt. Jeff Hallock confirmed Sermur was suspected of operating a cannabis oil lab. Sermur was seriously injured in a garage explosion and subsequent fire in the 26000 block of Vista del Mar in Capistrano Beach on Tuesday, November 5.

Authorities believe Sermur attempted to extract tetrahydrocannabinol, the chief intoxicant in marijuana, from finely ground stems and leaves of marijuana plants. The extraction process uses flammable butane gas and leaves behind a highly concentrated form of THC.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

1

…News Racks?

THE LATEST: Newspapers are coming back to City Hill and the Community Center, following an agreement between the city and a local newspaper that filed a lawsuit over the removal of news racks.

On Thursday, December 19, attorneys for the city and Community Common Sense, publishers of a monthly newspaper, met in court for the second time to negotiate a deal to bring news racks back to the two city properties.

Following 45 minutes of negotiations inside a jury room, Orange County Superior Court Judge James Di Cesare announced that news racks would be located to the right of the entrances at City Hall and the Community Center. The court order also allows Common Sense to place 10 copies of their paper in the Community Center’s senior reading room.

The judge’s decision follows the City Council’s closed session vote earlier this month to temporarily bring back news racks, although representatives for Common Sense said the city’s proposal fell short of their expectations.

Phillip Kohn, an attorney for the city, said Di Cesare’s order is similar to the council’s proposal.

“Needless to say, I’m satisfied. The order simply puts into writing what the council was prepared to do,” Kohn said.

In November, Common Sense filed a lawsuit against the city, City Attorney Hans Van Ligten and the council majority of Mayor Sam Allevato and councilmen Larry Kramer and John Taylor for the trio’s closed session vote to remove news racks in August. The lawsuit accused the parties of violating the First Amendment’s protection of free speech and states the city’s decision came only after they placed their own papers at the two locations, despite two other papers, The Capistrano Dispatch and the Capistrano Valley News, having racks there for at least

a decade.

WHAT’S NEXT: The two sides are due back in court February 27 to consider continuing the order.

Tate considered Di Cesare’s order a victory.

“I think my client prevailed and more importantly, freedom of speech and the freedom of the press prevailed,” Tate said.

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

– Brian Park

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…the CUSD Superintendent?

THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District Superintendent Joseph Farley announced Wednesday, December 11, he will retire June 30.

Farley, who entered the district during a period of financial disruption and was the district’s seventh superintendent in four years when he was hired, said he leaves the post knowing he did his best to steer CUSD through “trying times.”

“I was asked to stabilize the district and return the focus back to instruction and kids and to earn back the trust of our employee groups. This was done,” Farley said in a statement.

WHAT’S NEXT: The board voted to continue an item to name a subcommittee to help in the search process.

FIND OUT MORE: To read and listen to Farley’s statement, visit www.capousd.org.

– Jim Shilander

3

...the New Development Director?

THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano has

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013–January 9, 2014

found its new development services director.

Charlie View, a 28-year veteran of municipal planning and development, has been selected to lead the city’s Development Services Department, City Manager Karen Brust announced in a statement Tuesday, December 17.

View comes to San Juan Capistrano from the city of Brea, where he’s worked since 2002 as development services director and since 2010 as public works director. View also worked in various management roles in planning and development for the city of Santa Ana for 17 years.

View takes over for Nelson Miller, who has served in an interim capacity since Grant Taylor resigned in April.

WHAT’S NEXT: View began his post Friday, December 20. He will have a starting salary of $155,648, including benefits.

FIND OUT MORE: To view the city’s official statement, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org. – BP

4

…Music at the Winery?

THE LATEST: A new winery under construction in downtown San Juan Capistrano can play music until 10 p.m. after the City Council decided to scale back from the Planning Commission’s midnight cutoff.

Although city staff recommended a 9 p.m. limit for live entertainment, the Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for Rancho Capistrano Winery in October that allowed for amplified music until midnight.

Residents from the nearby Los Rios Historic District, led by Ramos House Café owner John Q. Humphreys, appealed the commission’s decision to the council.

The City Council voted unanimously, 4-0, to approve the changes, with Council-

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man John Taylor recusing himself because of his residence in the neighborhood.

WHAT’S NEXT: The council placed no restrictions on music inside the business.

Once completed, the winery will be open Sunday through Thursday until 11 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturday until midnight.

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

5

…the McDonald’s?

THE LATEST: A proposal to demolish and rebuild the San Juan Capistrano McDonald’s restaurant can finally move forward following the City Council’s unanimous approval Tuesday, December 17.

The long planning and review process had drawn criticism from council members, since plans were first submitted in June 2012. An initial design was rejected by the Planning Commission in July 2012 because it was deemed too modern. In February, the now-defunct Design Review Committee rejected a revised proposal over similar concerns. A third Pueblo-style design, which city staff found agreeable but was never formally submitted, was turned down

by McDonald’s corporate. Despite lingering concerns, the Planning Commission approved the current design in October.

WHAT’S NEXT: San Juan resident and franchise owner Ross Pollard plans to demolish the current building, located at 31822 Del Obispo Street, and build a new restaurant with a Mediterranean and Mission Revival architectural style. Designs also call for a double-lane drive-thru and a drive aisle at the front of the property to allow traffic to circulate internally.

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

EYE ON SJC

2013: A Turbulent Year A look back at the highs and lows in San Juan Capistrano this past year The Capistrano Dispatch

I

t’s been a whirlwind year in San Juan Capistrano.

Lawsuits and controversy dominated the headlines out of City Hall, most notably the start of a recall campaign against newly-appointed Mayor Sam Allevato.

2013 also saw the end to last year’s big story, the Zoomars dinosaur, which was finally given its extinction notice and shipped off to Arizona.

There was plenty of good news out of the city, as well. The dedicated volunteers of the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library finally broke ground on their new bookstore, and local Boys & Girls Club member Yossymar Rojas made a remarkable run in the club’s Youth of the Year award circuit, reaching the finals and meeting President Barack Obama.

Here are just some of the highlights of 2013: JANUARY All-female Tribal Council: For the first time in its history, the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation voted in an all-female tribal council. Teresa Romero was elected chair and Jacque Nuñez as vice chair. Kim Leone and Kristina Yorba, who both ran uncontested, were elected as secretary and treasurer, respectively. Ruthie Stoffel and Heidi Perez were elected as the council’s two newest members-at-large.

No Beer at The Mercado: The Fiesta Association, the all-volunteer group which organizes the historic Swallows Day Parade, announced they would not be serving beer during the parade’s companion event, the Mercado Street Fair. Citing a rise in alcohol-related incidents during the Mercado over the last several years, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department restricted beer sales to two hours. But Fiesta board members said it wasn’t financially prudent to open the Mercado’s beer garden for just two hours, so they decided to do away with beer sales entirely.

FEBRUARY Construction Begins on I-5/Ortega Project: After more than a decade of planning and preparation, Caltrans broke ground on its $86.2 million Interstate 5/Ortega Highway Interchange project. “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 said during a groundbreaking ceremony.

Opening El Horno Street: On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, CEO Mark Bodenhamer sent a letter to the

Yossymar Rojas became only the second member from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley to be named the state Youth of the Year. Rojas would go on to compete in the Boys & Girls Club of America’s national competition. Courtesy photo

City Council, asking the city to consider temporarily opening the El Horno Street undercrossing to alleviate east-to-west traffic flow during the Ortega Highway/I-5 interchange project. A group of residents addressed the council and objected to the chamber’s suggestion.

Boys & Girls Club Names its Youth of the Year: For his “sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community,” 17-year-old Yossymar Rojas was named Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley.

officer’s decision. Common Sense members posted the banner two weeks prior on a chain-link fence surrounding the Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park. The hearing officer found that Common Sense did not receive permission to place their banner.

APRIL

MARCH Quiet Zones: The City Council voted to establish quiet zones at five public railroad crossings. Starting March 15, train engineers are no longer allowed to sound their horns when passing through San Juan Capistrano, unless there is an immediate danger.

A New Entrance for the Mission: City, church and community leaders gathered at Mission San Juan Capistrano for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new gatehouse entrance. The $3.3 million project rehabilitated the original gatehouse, which was built in 1919, to include a new ticket booth and welcome area. The project also relocated the gift shop from the 18th century Sala building to the street front, so it could be made available to patrons after hours.

Swallows Day Parade: More than 40,000

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013–January 9, 2014

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Mission San Juan Capistrano unveiled its new gatehouse entrance in March. The $3.3 million project includes a new ticket booth and welcome area into the Mission. Photo by Brian Park

guests fill downtown San Juan Capistrano to watch the 55th installment of the Swallows Day Parade. Former mayor Joe Soto served as grand marshal for the parade.

The Common Sense Banner: Community Common Sense, a local activist group and publishers of a monthly newspaper, is forced to remove their banner from city-owned open space, following a hearing

Extinction for Zoomars Dinosaur: An attempt to save the controversial dinosaur replica at Zoomars Petting Zoo failed to pass on the City Council’s 2-2 vote, bringing to an end a nearly 10-month debate over its place in the Los Rios Historic District. Later in the month, Zoomars owner Carolyn Franks agreed to give up the dinosaur to the owner of the Grand Canyon Caverns, located on historic Route 66, in Peach Springs, Ariz.

State Youth of the Year: Yossymar Rojas becomes only the second member from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley to win the state Youth of the Year award, beating out eight other contestants.

MAY Dream Home: Newport Beach-based psychologist Arsalan Darmal received the go-ahead to build his controversial 6,600-square-foot dream home on a San Juan Capistrano hillside after the City Council turned down an appeal by nearby residents who had long protested the www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC home’s modern design and location.

Commission Reviews Downtown Hotel: Urban Village’s proposal to build a 136room hotel and residential enclave in downtown San Juan Capistrano drew criticism from the Planning Commission, who called initial designs “overbuilt.”

Planning Commission Interviews: The City Council conducted its first public interviews to fill all five seats on the Planning Commission. All five incumbent commissioners—Sheldon Cohen, Tim Neely, Roy Nunn, Jeff Parkhurst and Rob Williams—took part in the process. They were joined by three newcomers: Evan Chaffee, a staff member in Sen. Mark Wyland’s office; Ian Gardiner, a construction professional; and Dave Solt, a former member of the dissolved Housing Advisory Committee.

JUNE SONGS Shutdown: Southern California Edison announced it will permanently retire the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, which had been shut down since January 2012 due to a small leak found in Unit 3.

A New Planning Commission: The City Council cast their votes and elected two new members on the Planning Commission, Evan Chaffee and Ian Gardiner.

Incumbents Sheldon Cohen, Tim Neely and Roy Nunn were reelected.

DRC Dissolved: The City Council voted unanimously to do away with the city’s Design Review Committee in hopes that it would simplify the development process for existing and prospective businesses.

JULY No More Alcohol in Los Rios: The City Council put a cap on alcohol sales in the Los Rios Historic District by unanimously turning down Hummingbird House Café owner Monica Mukai’s request to sell beer and wine at her business.

King of the Pacific: Yossymar Rojas continued his winning ways by being named the Boys & Girls Club’s Pacific Region Youth of the Year. With the win, Rojas earned another $15,000 scholarship and a place in the club’s national competition.

Chamber Leaders Installed, Residents Recognized: The Chamber of Commerce installed its new leadership board, including President Carolyn Franks, owner of Zoomars Petting Zoo. The chamber also named residents Steve Behmerwohld and Kathy Hooper as man and woman of the year, respectively. San Diego Gas & Electric was recognized as business of the year.

City Hall Gets a Makeover: The city unveiled its new display of the nation’s motto, “In God We Trust,” along with a collection of historical documents, in its City Council chambers. Resident Jeff Péo and around 25 members of his church donated $1,400 to the $2,100 display. In addition, the city also repainted the chamber’s walls and reupholstered the wall directly behind the dais.

violations by councilmen Roy Byrnes and Derek Reeve. Kramer questioned whether Byrnes had violated the Brown Act when he revealed the council’s closed session vote to remove news racks at City Hall and the Community Center. Kramer also asked whether Reeve had violated his “fiduciary duty to the city or any other laws” in his role as legal representative for Common Sense in the news rack issue. Kramer’s statement came after Reeve accused Councilman Sam Allevato of being behind a “push poll” phone call campaign aimed to benefit himself and quash the recall attempt against him. Allevato denied any knowledge.

NOVEMBER After the discovery of a small leak in Unit 3 shut down the plant in January 2012, Southern California Edison announced it would permanently retire the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station in June 2013. File photo

Mayor John Taylor, flanked by city council members Sam Allevato and Larry Kramer, and resident Jeff Péo, cuts the ribbon for the city’s new “In God We Trust” display and Freedom Shrine.

Photo by Brian Park

San Juan Capistrano bid adieu to Juan, the controversial dinosaur replica at Zoomars Petting Zoo, following 10 months of debate over its place in the Los Rios Historic District. Photo by Brian Park

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

Water Rates Declared Illegal: Orange County Superior Court Judge Gregory Munoz ruled that San Juan Capistrano’s water rates were illegal. Munoz’s decision sided with the Capistrano Taxpayers Association, a local taxpayers’ rights group, which sued the city in August 2012.

Munoz found that the city’s tiered rate structure violated Proposition 218, which requires rates to be relative to cost of service. Munoz also found that the city was illegally charging ratepayers for recycled water despite it not being immediately available.

No More Newspapers: On behalf of the city, City Attorney Hans Van Ligten delivered letters to three local newspapers requesting news racks be removed from City Hall and the Community Center.

CUSD, Teachers Union Agree: CUSD officials and the district’s teachers union agreed to a new deal that increased instructional days to 177, from 175, and partially reduced class sizes.

Dog Park Opens: City leaders and residents, including the shaggy, four-legged variety, came together for the grand opening of the Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park.

The 2.5-acre park features two separate roaming areas for small and large dogs, drinking fountains for dogs and their owners, picnic tables, benches and an access ramp for the disabled.

Recall Notice Served: Resident Clint Worthington delivered a notice of intent to recall nine-year City Councilman Sam Allevato. Worthington, a representative for the recall organizers, Residents for Honest Government, said the motive behind the decision was Allevato’s ongoing support of the city’s controversial groundwater recovery plant and his February 2010 vote to increase water rates and establish a new tiered rate structure.

Later, Allevato filed his response to the recall, in which he defended his voting record.

City Appeals Water Lawsuit: The city filed an appeal challenging Orange County Superior Court Judge Gregory Munoz’s ruling that found the San Juan’s tiered water rates illegal.

Groundbreaking for Bookstore: After eight years of fundraising and cutting through governmental red tape, the Friends of the Library broke ground on their new bookstore. Mary DeMers, president of the Friends, said the store is projected to open in the spring.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013–January 9, 2014

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OCTOBER Council Allegations: A heated discussion culminated with a decision to possibly investigate Councilman Larry Kramer’s accusations of legal and ethical

Council Rescinds Investigation: Prompted by a peacemaking strategy from the Chamber of Commerce, the City Council decided not to move forward with a formal investigation into allegations of council misconduct.

The council reversed course from its decision earlier in the month to spend $25,000 to hire an independent investigator to look into Councilman Larry Kramer’s allegations. The City Attorney’s office was directed to seek the opinion of the state Attorney General regarding Reeve’s role as a council member and as an attorney representing Community Common Sense.

Recall Petition OKd: City Clerk Maria Morris notified recall organizers that their petition had been approved. Recall organizers, known as Residents for Honest Government, have until March 7 to gather signatures from 20 percent of San Juan Capistrano’s 17,511 registered voters, or 3,503 signatures, to enact a special election.

Class-action Lawsuit: San Juan Capistrano resident John D. Jenkins filed a multi-million dollar claim seeking monies returned to ratepayers from water bills collected under the city’s contested tiered rate structure.

News Rack Lawsuit: Community Common Sense files a lawsuit against the city, City Attorney Hans Van Ligten and the council majority of Sam Allevato, Larry Kramer and John Taylor over their closed session decision to remove news racks. The lawsuit accuses the parties of violating the First Amendment’s protection of free speech.

DECEMBER A New Council: Despite being the target of a recall campaign, City Councilman Sam Allevato was selected as the city’s new mayor. Allevato found support from his council allies, outgoing mayor John Taylor and Larry Kramer, who was selected mayor pro tem. Councilman Derek Reeve voted against both Allevato’s and Kramer’s nominations while Councilman Roy Byrnes abstained from voting. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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EYE ON SJC

Best of the Blotter COMPILED BY STAFF

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. 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. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

p.m., October 30) A suspiciously shaped package was found hidden behind a trashcan near the elevator in the Ruby’s commercial center.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Via de Aguila, 32000 Block (8:24 p.m., October 19) A female caller requested sheriff’s deputies to check for two males who were hanging out near her residence.

She described the men as “gang types” and thought they were “up to no good.”

PEDESTRIAN CHECK Alipaz Street/Del Obispo Street (10:47 p.m., October 9) Sheriff’s deputies apprehended a known male probationer in an area under a gang injunction. The man, a 19-yearold dishwasher, standing 5 feet 8 inches and weighing 145 pounds, was taken to Theo Lacy Facility.

BURGLARY ALARM-AUDIBLE Rancho Viejo Road, 30200 Block (5:22 p.m., July 10) A man was locked inside a house he had just moved into because he did not know the code to turn off the infrared alarm system. A deputy went to the residence to free the trapped caller.

JUNE DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (10:34 p.m., June 23) A caller reported a disturbance caused by loud piano music.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Calle San Juan/Calle San Luis (2:15 a.m., June 23) A loud party, somewhere between Calle San Francisco and Calle San Luis, was reportedly raging on into the wee morning hours. Police responded to calls three times before at 10:05 p.m., 11:35 p.m. and 1:40 a.m.

DECEMBER

SEPTEMBER

CITIZEN ASSIST El Camino Real, 31400 Block (7:55 p.m., December 10) A man at the San Juan Capistrano Library said he thought someone sold his bicycle without his permission.

CITIZEN ASSIST Ortega Highway/El Camino Real (3:42 p.m., September 22) A woman was seen trying to get her car out of a locked parking lot. Witnesses say the woman was standing outside of the lot looking very confused.

MAY

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Capistrano/La Zanja Street (7:14 p.m., September 20) Deputies were notified when multiple juveniles were seen at Stone Field Park smoking and drinking.

An eyewitness told deputies he saw the juveniles hide in trees in order to smoke and drink.

APRIL

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE La Novia Avenue/Calle Arroyo (10:08 a.m., December 8) A caller reported seeing 12 vultures circling the air, west of the bridge. The caller suspected there might be something dead there.

NOVEMBER DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 31400 Block (11:59 a.m., November 18) A woman called from the reference desk at the library, complaining about a man who was accusing her of taking his electronic files.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Capistrano, 31700 Block (2:05 p.m., November 10) A woman wearing no pants was seen walking by a Starbucks. The reporting caller then hung up the phone.

VANDALISM IN PROGRESS Marina Road, 26300 Block (5:08 p.m., November 2) A woman called after she caught two small children scratching three vehicles with rocks while their parents looked on. The woman said the children and parents lived two houses down.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Verdugo Street, 26700 Block (1:48 p.m., November 2) A caller, who said he was a conductor, told authorities about a black backpack that had been left at the train depot. The caller hung up, and when dispatch called back, the call went straight to voice mail.

OCTOBER SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Capistrano/Ortega Highway (6:55

DISTURBANCE Spyglass Court, 32100 Block (12:07 a.m., September 14) A man called to complain that a man walking near him was talking loudly on his phone.

AUGUST ROBBERY IN PROGRESS Del Obispo Street/Camino Capistrano (4:46 p.m., August 20) A man called authorities saying he was robbed and beaten by two men, and that he was following them in his car. The man said he suffered facial injuries and overheard the subjects saying something about heading to Mexico.

The man stayed on the line with dispatch while following the subjects southbound on Interstate 5. U.S. Customs and Border Patrol was notified, but sheriff’s deputies caught and arrested the men.

JULY SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Paseo Corrales, 28200 Block (8:45 a.m., July 15) A woman notified police of two females who had just shown up at her house, claiming that they were hired by someone to clean her residence.

The caller later discovered that the two women were telling the truth.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013–January 9, 2014

Page 6

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE Ortega Highway, 26800 Block (10:40 a.m., May 7) A bus was reportedly taking up “too many spots” in the parking lot of a nearby restaurant.

STOLEN VEHICLE Paseo Tecate, 26600 Block (7:12 a.m., April 1) A caller told police that a car that was previously reported stolen was found. The caller’s son parked it around the corner.

TERRORIST THREATS REPORT Rancho Viejo Road, 31600 Block (8:35 a.m., April 1) Police were contacted after a threatening fax was received at the Seasons Senior Apartments.

MARCH DISTURBANCE Oso Road/Camino Capistrano (5:30 p.m., March 23) A man with black hair in a white tank top and black pants was seen yelling at drivers and chasing their vehicles.

CITIZEN ASSIST Alipaz Street, 32500 Block (9:41 a.m., March 23) A woman reported neighborhood juveniles have been repeatedly leaving trash in the bed of her pickup truck.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE San Juan Creek, 28000 Block (9:07 p.m., March 19) A caller found it suspicious and called police after seeing a “big truck” pull into the back of Ambuehl Elementary School.

9-1-1 HANGUP Hillside Terrace, 30100 Block (11:37 a.m., March 3) Dispatchers could hear what sounded like the phone was off the hook and someone was cleaning it.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Cook Lane/Calle Ricardo (5:40 p.m., March 3) A brown Ford Econoline Van was cruising up and down the street at about 3 mph near the Best Western hotel.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Oso Road/Camino Capistrano (4:37 p.m., March 3) Three subjects set off a rocket.

FEBRUARY SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Alipaz Street/Del Obispo Street (3:26 p.m., February 27) Juveniles were seen talking to older people in a silver Lexus. The caller was just a passerby who thought the interaction looked suspicious.

FOUND PROPERTY Paseo Espada, 27200 Block (7:26 p.m., February 25) A backpack was left at the caller’s front door. The bag was full of trash and had nothing of value inside.

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE Camino Capistrano, 31700 Block (2:03 p.m., February 17) Multiple motorcycles were “parked in random spots” behind Swallow’s Inn. CITIZEN ASSIST Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (1:21 p.m., February 13) Police responded to a call regarding a dispute between neighbors over a fence.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street, 31900 Block (5:53 p.m., February 2) A woman called dispatch after she said an unknown female came to her door, screamed at her and then left.

JANUARY ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Mission Street, 26600 Block (12:01 p.m., January 13) The Orange County Fire Authority responded to third-hand information from a caller who said their neighbor said they smelled smoke in their residence. When authorities arrived, it turned out the smell came from a barbecue pit.

STOLEN VEHICLE Ortega Highway, 27700 Block (12:58 p.m., January 6) A man called police to report his vehicle stolen. The caller returned to where he thought he parked the car but was unable to locate it. An officer was able to help the man search the parking lot where the vehicle was found.

RECKLESS DRIVING Alipaz Street/Del Obispo Street (2:04 p.m., January 3) Police received a report of a vehicle driving erratically on Alipaz Street. A witness told officers the driver of the white Dodge Ram truck was talking on his cell phone and also appeared to be reading a book as he nearly ran several vehicles off the road. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Little Acts of Selflessness Boys & Girls Clubs members gain educational empowerment, buy gifts for families

By Andrea Papagianis The Capistrano Dispatch

C

hristmas is just around the corner, and for some Boys & Girls Clubs members, gifts are filling up vacant spaces underneath their holiday trees, thanks to their hard work outside the classroom.

Kimberly Olvera, 10, a fifth-grader at Kinoshita Elementary School, wasted no time Saturday, heading straight for a room filled with donated bicycles. Numbering 35 in total and ranging in size and colorful hues, Olvera immediately pointed to a shiny, purple cruiser with flower covered grips.

She had found the perfect gift for her 8-year-old sister.

Olvera was among the first in line December 14 as club members from Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano cashed in their hard-earned points for a coveted, early Operation Holiday Homework time slot.

For the last decade, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley have held the annual homework competition, empowering members to focus on their education with an incentives-based holiday payoff. Each day, during the clubs’ homework power hour, members have received points for accomplishing three things—being quiet, respectful and staying on task—along with completing their day’s schoolwork.

“This is an educational priority program,” said Nicole Watson, area director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. “It is getting kids to realize, if they do their homework that good things will come, and if they place their education first, they can now give amazing gifts to their family members.”

And at the end of each month, points were counted up and displayed for all to see.

Eleni Rodriguez, 9, a fourth-grader at Del Obispo Elementary School, and volunteer Janice Frechette Artinger celebrate finding the perfect gift for Rodriguez’s 2-year-old sister, Leyla. Photo Andrea Papagianis

“When points are posted each month, our members’ eyes grow even bigger, and you see them focusing on their homework more and more,” Watson said. “The cool thing with members being on task, quiet and respectful, is they are doing something productive and their homework is getting completed. They are driven and focused on getting work done to be able to attend the Operation Holiday

Talegans Get Rehearing CUSD Trustees to reconsider Talega tax vote after outcry from citizens

By Jim Shilander The Capistrano Dispatch

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alega residents seeking redress on what they saw as a mischaracterization of their intentions were given a victory last week as the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees voted to rehear a resolution approved last fall that failed to return funds from a recent refinancing to taxpayers. But long term questions remain to be settled for the development and its schools.

In August, members of the board approved a refinancing of a community finance district, or Mello-Roos fund, for the area, along with a CFD for the Las Flores area of Rancho Santa Margarita. The refinancing would have allowed savings to be returned to taxpayers, or to keep the difference in a facilities fund or to keep half the savings in the fund and return half to the taxpayers.

The board approved returning the funds, about $133 a year, to the Las Flores residents. The board voted to keep Talega CFD funds, pending the result of a districtwide survey assessing the maintenance needs of its schools, including San Clemente High School. The savings to Talega residents was believed to be about $344 per year, on average, per parcel.

Susan Hattan, a tax attorney who lives in Talega, said the district should not view the Talega CFD as a handThe Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013–January 9, 2014

out it can use for just any project.

“This is not about a tax break for Talega residents,” Hattan said. “It’s about responsible spending and following the law. And where there’s a perceived windfall, with all due respect, it’s very easy for government officials to spend other people’s money. The needs and desires of Talega residents do not get trumped by the needs of the district.”

Hattan said she and others felt the district was unreasonably relying on funds from the CFD. The board determined in 2006 Talega taxpayers have already paid for the facilities it was supposed to, including Vista del Mar Elementary School, San Juan Hills High School and improvements at San Clemente High School.

The issue of where Talega students will end up for high school is still not entirely decided. Children from the development currently attend San Clemente High School.

However, upon the completion of the Avenida La Pata extension, students would be slated to attend San Juan Hills High School, which is located on the completed portion of La Pata in San Juan Capistrano. Funds from the Talega CFD helped build San Juan Hills, and the fact that Talega students have thus far been unable to access a school that taxpayers in the area paid for remains a sore subject.

After hearing from residents on two different occasions, the board, minus the recused Alpay, voted 5-0 to rehear the issue in January. The board has two regularly scheduled meetings that month, on January 8 and 22. CD Page 7

Homework event.”

For Hannah Bostic, a fifth-grader at Del Obispo Elementary School, a gift for her cousin was top priority. Rather than a gift for herself, Bostic asked if she could donate her homework earned prize. She arrived at 6 a.m.to ensure she was one of the first point earners through the door at 9:30 a.m. Her eyes set on a Power Wheels, a black, drivable Hummer, for an unsuspecting younger relative.

“Our biggest ask this year was members wanting to substitute their gifts for others,” Watson said.

Hundreds of such selfless acts filled Capistrano Valley’s three branches this weekend, as 340 members in San Juan Capistrano, Rancho Santa Margarita and Aliso Viejo were given the opportunity to “buy” holiday gifts for their family members.

One-by-one, young students attending the Via Positiva branch in San Juan Capistrano entered the club on Saturday, December 14 with a personal shopper. With a stadium-style introduction by Teen Director Chris Waters, members were greeted by a shopping volunteer and highfived by dozens of others lining a hallway leading to rooms filled with gifts and Santa Claus himself.

Some were timid, some experienced from years past, but all were filled with excitement over the endless gift possibilities. And after shopping, wrapping and a highfiving along their journey, hundreds left the club with presents for brothers, sisters, moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, a special gift for themselves and a sense of pride and achievement in earning things, both big and small, for their families.

In the words of Kinoshita fourth-grader, Daniel Deanda, 9, who shopped for his mother, father and siblings ages 12, 4 and 3, “They are going to freak out.” CD

OC SUPERVISORS FINALIZE LA PATA CONTRACT

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he Orange County Board of Supervisors has named the contractor finish Avenida La Pata, connecting San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

The supervisors selected Sukut Construction, Inc. of Santa Ana, which bid $72.7 million for the project, $5 million below the county’s estimate.

The first phase of the project to be completed will be to close of the gap between the two cities. It will include four lanes and stretch from the current terminus of the road at Calle Saluda to the Prima Descecha landfill.

The second portion of the project will widen La Pata Avenue from three to five lanes, from approximately 750 feet south of Ortega Highway in the unincorporated County area to the existing road terminus at the County’s Prima Deshecha Landfill.

The final phase of construction will widen Camino Del Rio to four lanes from its current terminus in San Clemente to La Pata. The county expects to break ground on the project in March 2014.

City Councilwoman Lori Donchak, who also serves on the board of the Orange County Transportation Authority said the project was a significant one for the city.

“This is a big milestone,” Donchak wrote in an email. “It takes a lot of effort and talents to get a project of this size to actually happen. OC project manager Harry Persaud gets the lion’s share of credit for finding the money and persevering against all odds. He and County Supervisor Pat Bates never lost focus. I am so pleased San Clemente will finally have a backdoor and improved travel paths.”

CD —Jim Shilander www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

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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 24. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch ) is published twice monthly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 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) Locals Only Business Listing Manager

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Quinn Conway, Tawnee Prazak, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

GUEST OPINION: Larry Kramer, Mayor Pro Tem of San Juan Capistrano

In Response to My Fellow Councilman’s View on Water

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n a recent article in Community Common Sense, Councilman Roy Byrnes proposes “regionalizing the Ground Water Recovery Plant because the GWRP is more expensive and less reliable than MWD water.”

Sounds good but not cost effective and solves absolutely none of the problems brought up by Mr. Byrnes. He gets some “facts” wrong and overlooks the major reason why the GWRP was built.

We have not gotten water from MWD for 100 years. No water was imported into San Juan Capistrano until 1964. That is about 50 years, not 100. There are four people running the GWRP, not 21. The cost of GWRP water is not more expensive than imported water; it is about the same cost as for imported water. The city states GWRP water is actually cheaper. MWD water has increased 5 percent every year in recent history and is projected by MWD to continue to increase at that rate.

Water from the GWRP has gotten cheaper and is stabilizing.

The primary purpose of the GWRP is to

Letters to the Editor I WANT ANSWERS, MR. ALLEVATO —Jim Schneider, San Juan Capistrano Mr. Allevato. Are you responsible for the email (spam) I received today regarding your recall? I’m curious how my email was obtained for this? I don’t remember signing up for it. Since it’s in my inbox, here is my retort.

Should you get recalled? Your email presented no strong reason why you shouldn’t. The information contained is surficial and weak on facts.

I was against you in 2012 and remain

provide water to residents whenever water from MWD is interrupted.

When MWD required us to have seven days’ supply of water, the city, in 2001, did a study of how to provide at least a week of Larry Kramer water if imported water is interrupted. The alternative to the GWRP was to build three or four storage tanks around the city on the hills. That alternative was estimated to cost $40-60 million, which is a lot more than the cost of the GWRP. With the GWRP and our current storage capability, seven days of water is available without importing any water. MWD routinely interrupts our supply of water for their maintenance every year and there is real concern that an earthquake could cause a long-term interruption of imported water.

Byrnes proposes letting the San Juan Basin Authority take over the GWRP. SJBA is a shell organization with no permanent

staff and no management nor operational experience. It does studies and plans for management of the basin. A joint powers agreement with the SJBA would have to be developed and a staff hired to manage it. Creating another level of management would not result in any cost savings. New organizations have a way of taking on a life (and costs) of their own.

In addition, while we have some interconnections with the surrounding communities, we would need major structural changes to send and meter water to the other agencies. Piping, pumping and metering changes would be needed at additional cost.

So “regionalizing” the GWRP would actually increase the cost of water: cost for construction, operation and maintenance of new storage tanks; costs of operating and managing a new joint company; and costs of new piping, pumps and metering for interconnections of four water companies.

Councilman Byrnes’ proposal would actually increase the cost of water while

so. You and several other current council members are not transparent enough with your decisions. If you truly represented all of the residents, you would disclose concise and clear justification for the decisions you make for us.

Please help me decide on the recall vote by educating me on your decision making in the following: Although most of the council claims to possess backgrounds in leadership, no one strikes me as a strong leader. Leaders do by example. How do you represent a majority us all?

The financial decisions you make are the most important issue for residents.

Several council members claim to possess strong business sense, yet many contractors you hire in this city to conduct work

are typically the lowest or sole bidders.

One bid for work does not make a sound decision for the people.

The Groundwater Recovery Plant. As a geologist, I view the San Juan aquifer as usable but not the most desirable for water extraction. The idea was good, but in practice not efficient. Who on the council is educated in life-cycle costing? Who mapped the life-cycle costs for this plant?

How could it go awry so quickly? Why does this plant continue to drain our wallets? You and others argue that our water rates were too low over the last ten years and we were lucky. As demand increases, I agree we will pay more for water. I vote to pay Colorado and Los Angeles for the water, not San Juan. At least their rates and rate structures are straightforward.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013-January 9, 2014

Page 8

reducing the reliability of water supply to San Juan Capistrano residents.

San Juan Capistrano is the only city in south Orange County with a significant long-term local supply of water. You should take pride in having this major asset. We should be proud of former councilmen and city officials who had the foresight to plan ahead.

Larry Kramer is an 11-year resident of San Juan Capistrano. He was elected to city council in 2010 and served one year as mayor and is beginning his second as mayor pro tem. He is also a member of the Open Space Foundation and member and former president of the Rotary Club. CD PLEASE NOTE: 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@capistranodispatch.com

The GWRP functions but does not save residents money. Why is no one on council looking forward 50 years? 100 years?

What’s the bidding process for material for the GWRP? Sole source? How does that practice save us residents money?

You might decide that I am only one voter and choose not to respond. I am only one voter, but I do believe I represent a percentage of folks who want answers.

The fact that a vote is out for your recall should embarrass you and the current council. We look like the City of Bell— foolish.

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

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

YOUR TWO-WEEK EVENT PLANNER

THE LIST

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

friday

POST HOLIDAYS WINE AND BEER FLIGHTS 4 p.m.-9 p.m.

Wine tasting at San Clemente Wine Company. Fee $10 each, includes cheese plate and chocolate. 212 ½ Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

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CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: TOTEM 8 p.m. Special performance at the Orange County Great Park. Shows through December 29. Tickets online. 6950 Marine Way, Irvine, 866.829.3829, www.cirquedusoleil.com.

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

THE REFLEXX 8 p.m. Concert with ’80s new wave music at StillWater Spirits & Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

JUSTIN TAYLOR 9 p.m. Music and dancing at Brio Tuscany Grille. 24050 Camino Del Avion, Dana Point, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com.

saturday

SHOP LOCAL: FOLLOW THE SWALLOWS Shop at participating San Juan Capistrano businesses to be part of the new Shop & Dine Local Pledge Card program. The program includes a chance to win prizes plus a grand prize the first week of January 2014. For more information, contact the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce, 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

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DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and much more at La Plaza Park in Dana Point every Saturday. 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

THE PETTY BREAKERS 8 p.m. Concert with the nation’s premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tribute act at The Coach House, also featuring cover band Lyvyn Skynyrd. Tickets $13. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013–January 9, 2014

AT THE MOVIES: YOU’LL FALL FOR ‘AMERICAN HUSTLE’ David O. Russell’s American Hustle opens with the text “Some of this actually happened” and from the start, sets the right satiric mood for this rather loosely based crime flick. Actors Christian Bale, Amy Adams and Bradley Cooper—with their extra tacky styling, fake accents and a background track of classic rock and smooth jazz—transport viewers back to 1978 and the coordination of the FBI’s ABSCAM sting operation. Bale and Adams play partners in crime and love, Irving Rosenfeld and Sydney Prosser, who make a living as con artists. When they get caught by FBI agent Richie DiMaso (Cooper), he blackmails them into a job that requires lying and stealing from the mafia and the unaware Camden mayor Carmine Polito (Jeremy Renner). Jennifer Lawrence plays Irving’s hilariously © Sony Pictures immature wife Rosalyn. Jack Huston, Alessandro Nivola, Louis C.K. and Michael Peña also co-star. Any reference to American Hustle as a GoodFellas (1990) rip-off would be unfair to the creators. Russell’s signature use of quick direction and smart-talking characters seep through, and Cooper’s and Adams’ comedy roots help lead the film to successful satire status. Bale is unrecognizable behind his beer belly and purple sunglasses and Lawrence easily steals all of her scenes. American Hustle is heavy on dialogue and character development and low on sex and drugs, which work in making it one of the best ensemble pieces this season. —Megan Bianco

NATURE HIKE 9 a.m. Participate in a 5-mile hike at Crystal Cove State Park. 8471 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3539, www.crystalcovestatepark.com.

BUNCH OF GUYS 9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire.

204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

WHALE WATCHING WITH UNDERWATER VIEWING PODS Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari offers 2.5-hour trips daily. Call for departure times.

View whales and dolphins eye-to-eye underwater aboard a hi-tech catamaran sailboat. Tickets $59 adults, $39 kids (3 to 12), under 2 free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

WEST KOAST JONNY 8 p.m. Live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

sunday

HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. Meet at the Depot Platform for the Historical Society’s guided tour of San Juan Capistrano.

Every Sunday. Cost $2-$4.

949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

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MIKE HAMILTON Noon-4 p.m. Live music at Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.8055, www.missiongrillsjc.com.

FREE FISHING FOR KIDS Noon. A fishing lesson and more for kids at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

GOT UKULELE? 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Ukulele players and fans are invited to a Hawaiian music lesson and jam session every Sunday. Call for location and more details.

949.829.2675, www.ekanikapilakakou.com.

WINGS BAND 8 p.m. Tribute to Paul McCartney’s band at The Coach House, also featuring Beatles cover band The Truffles. Tickets $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

NEIL MORROW 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn, followed by more music by Rob Staley from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

Page 10

monday

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LAW SCHOOL 5 p.m.

Wine class with expert Ian Blackburn at The Cellar.

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

SMOKEY KARAOKE 8 p.m. Your turn to get onstage at BeachFire. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

tuesday

NEW YEAR’S EVE BROADWAY TIME! 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Celebrate the new year at Camino Real Playhouse with dancing, comedy and dinner by Sundried Tomato. Have a champagne toast when the ball drops in Times Square and be home before 10 p.m. $64. 31776 El Camino, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

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OVERVUE LOUNGE NYE PARTY Ring in the New Year in Laguna Cliffs Marriott’s ocean-view OverVue Lounge; with entertainment by Groove All Stars, a champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. $25. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.661.5000, www.lagunacliffs.com.

MILLERTIME BOOGIE AND NYE PARTY 6 p.m. Live music, dinner and an early NYE celebration at 9 p.m. at Shorecliffs Golf Club. No cover party. Reservations for dinner required. 501 Avenida Vaquero, San Clemente, 949.492.1177, www.shorecliffsgolfclub.com.

DONAVON FRANKENREITER NYE 8 p.m. The surf/ soul/rock artist performs a special concert at The Coach House. Tickets $45. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

ST. REGIS NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH THE GREAT GATSBY 8 p.m. Enjoy the Roaring ’20s at this Great Gatsby-themed NYE celebration at the St. Regis Monarch Beach including food, drinks, dancing and more. Cost $95$165. 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3200, www.stregismb.com.

SWALLOW’S NYE ROCKIN’ PARTY 7 p.m. New Year’s Eve party at The Swallow’s Inn featuring live music by the Rob Staley Band, party favors, a champagne toast and more. Advance tickets $20; $25 at the door. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

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

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 10) NYE DINNER 5 p.m.-9 p.m. An exclusive dinner at Vue restaurant in the Laguna Cliffs Marriott with complimentary valet and live entertainment. Cost $99 per person. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.661.5000, www.lagunacliffs.com.

RAYA NEW YEAR’S EVE 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Celebrate NYE at Raya in the Ritz-Carlton with a special four-course meal and more. Cost $115 each. 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com.

SENIOR NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER DANCE 5 p.m.-10 p.m. NYE event for seniors at the Dana Point Community Center. 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point, 949.248.3536, www.danapoint.org.

wednesday

COMMITMENT DAY NEW YEAR’S 5K 9 a.m.-11:15 a.m. Join hundreds of runners in Irvine at William R. Mason Regional Park for a nationwide 5k running event and commit to leading healthy, active lives in 2014 and beyond. Cost $40-$45.

University Drive, Irvine, www.commitmentday.com.

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saturday

04

THE ARK OF SAN JUAN PET ADOPTIONS Adoptions every Saturday held by The Ark of San Juan. Call for more details. 949.388.0034, www.arkofsanjuan.org.

HISTORY OF THE HOT SPRINGS 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m.

Meeting and special lecture at Caspers Wilderness Park. Call for more info. Free. 33401 Ortega Highway, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com.

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

Guided morning nature hike at starting at the Ladera Ranch East Trail in The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. $5-$10. Call for info and directions. 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

CHAS HAYES 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Live blues and wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine. Tastings $20 for five wines. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

Courtesy photo

02

friday

SHOWOFF! INTERNATIONAL PLAYWRITING FESTIVAL 8 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse presents seven original 10-minute plays onstage with the audience voting for the winner. Tickets $18 (preview), $24 regular shows, and $34 for Gala Night, January 4 with dinner by Mission Grill. 31776 El Camino, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

03

GEORGE & THE CLATCH 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Live classic rock tunes and wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine. Tastings $20 for five wines. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

EDITOR’S PICK: PANNING FOR GOLD 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Try your luck at finding gold in a customdesigned trough at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Cost $3, in addition to admission. 26801 Ortega Highway, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR 10 a.m. Discover 200 years of San Juan Capistrano architecture on a 90-minute guided walk that includes adobes, Spanishera dwellings and modern buildings. Meet at Verdugo Street. A $5 donation supports the Friends of the Library. For more info, call 949.489.0736.

THE ECOLOGY CENTER GUIDED TOUR 1 p.m.

Free, guided tour of the environmental educational center teaching ways you can help create a healthier, more sustainable future. 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

CASPERS PARK ASTRONOMY NIGHT 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

Look through telescopes with astronomers at Caspers Wilderness Park. Call for more info. Parking $5. 33401 Ortega Highway, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com.

sunday

HUMMEL’S BLUES HARMONICA BLOWOUT 8 p.m.

Mark Hummel performs jazz and harmonica-led blues at The Coach House, also featuring John Mayall. Tickets $30. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

THE SERRA CHAPEL TOUR 11:15 a.m. Tour at the Mission in honor of Father Junipero Serra, who was born 300 years ago this year. $6–$9.

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

CHARLIE MURPHY 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Special comedy show at the Irvine Improv. Shows all weekend. Tickets $27. 71 Fortune Drive, Suite 841, Irvine, 949.854.5455, www.improv.com.

GOT UKULELE? 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Ukulele players and fans are invited to a Hawaiian music lesson and jam session every Sunday. Call for location and more details.

949.829.2675, www.ekanikapilakakou.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013–January 9, 2014

PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS CASTING CALL 2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Pageant of the Masters is looking for volunteers. Try out at Irvine Bowl Park. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3663, www.foapom.com.

monday

06

05

Page 12

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

TRAIL CLEARING AND WEEDING 7:30 a.m.9:30 a.m. Volunteer at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Call for info and directions.

949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.–7 p.m. Every Wednesday at El Camino Real and Yorba in San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.4700.

thursday

HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. Meet at the Depot Platform for the Historical Society’s tour of San Juan Capistrano. $2-$4. 949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

tuesday

KARAOKE WITH LES AND JOEL 7 p.m. Every Wednesday at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

GARDEN ANGELS 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Volunteers meet every Thursday in front of the Montanez Adobe at Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano to build butterfly habitats and help maintain the garden. Bring gloves and wear close-toed shoes. 949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.

TOWER OF POWER 7 p.m. The renowned horndriven funk outfit plays at The Coach House. Tickets $42.50. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

HART & SOUL 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

Live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

DUSTIN FRANKS 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

wednesday

COMMUNITY ART NIGHT 4 p.m.-7 p.m. New event at Bull Taco featuring arts and craft projects for the whole family with artist Lauren Tannehil.

Event also features $4 kids meals, beer and wine specials.

1527 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.1739.

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CHERYL SILVERSTEIN 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Vocalist sings jazz, blues and pop standards at OC Tavern. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

FOOD TRUCKS AFTER DARK 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

Gourmet food trucks and entertainment at the OC Fair & Events Center. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com.

thursday

LUNCH ABOARD THE TITANIC 7 p.m. Captain Don Walsh lectures on the history and exploration of the Titanic at ExplorOcean. RSVP required.

Cost $15. 600 E. Bay Avenue.

Newport Beach, 949.675.8915, www.explorocean.org.

09

BILLY WATSON AND ROBIN HENKEL 7 p.m.-10 p.m.

Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

Have an event?

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

SJC LIVING

4

LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Friday 12.27 – Wednesday 1.1 City Offices Closed City Hall and the Community Center will be closed for the holidays.

Monday 12.30 – Friday 1.3 CUSD Offices Closed Capistrano Unified School District offices will be closed for the holidays.

Friday 1.3 Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues, hosted by The Dispatch founder Jonathan Volzke.

Occurs every Friday. All are welcome.

El Adobe de Capistrano Restaurant, 31891 Camino Capistrano.

Monday 12.6 Special Joint Open Space, Trails & Equestrian Commission and Parks, Recreation and Senior Services Commission Meeting 6 p.m. The two

commissions will be holding a special joint meeting to discuss the Northwest Open Space Conceptual Plan. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www. sanjuancapistrano.org.

Wednesday 12.8 CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting 7 p.m. Capistrano Unified School District Office Board Room, 33122 Valle Road. www.capousd.org.

Friday 12.10 Next regular issue of The Dispatch publishes

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

Difficulties of Senior Dating As we age one question remains, Why is dating after 50 so difficult?

I

n 2001, I was interviewed by Matt Lauer on the “Today” show. He asked, “Why is dating after 50 so difficult?”

I responded, “Some of us haven’t had a date in 30 years. We’re out of practice.”

During the interview, I outlined the five main reasons that made dating after 50 difficult. Twelve years later, people still ask the “why is dating difficult” question, but now they add “after age 60, 70 and beyond.”

Here’s my 2013 answer: 1. We aren’t prepared. After a longterm marriage or relationship, perhaps of 35 plus years, our spouse or significant other may be gone. We had prepared to spend our retirement years together, not prepped to date again. But now, that’s what we’re faced with, and we don’t know how to begin, where to go or what to do.

It’s perplexing, daunting and scary.

2. There aren’t places to go where there are relatively even numbers of single men and women in our age range. One night a month, Tutor and Spunky’s, my Dana Point deli, sponsors a Meet and Greet gathering for singles aged 50 to 90. Many widowed people attend. The women-to-men ratio is often 4or 5-to-1. That’s about par for age 60-plus singles events across Orange County.

3. More on the dreaded ratio of women to men. Census statistics reveal that as people reach their 60s and 70s, the number of single men decreases significantly. What can women do to overcome the lack of single men? At an AARP convention, Dr. Ruth Westheimer said, “The ratio is a fact of life, you can’t change it. However, if you put your mind to having a nice appearance, and an openness to meeting new people, and a willingness to do social things, and you’re positive, you can effectively reduce the

ratio. Commit to having a good life, with or without a man.”

4. We’ve aged. At 70, singles don’t have the energy they had before—and dating takes energy (and time and money). We’ve added ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 wrinkles and wear

By Tom Blake and tear to our bodies.

Some older singles go to bed early. The last thing they want is to be out on a date at 9 p.m. seeking love. For many, it’s easier and less complicated to be curled up and reading a book at home.

5. Compatibility is difficult to find. As we age, we are more set in our ways. We know what we want and what works for us. We’re not going to accept someone to share our life who doesn’t measure up. Often, adult children object to a widowed parent dating again, but the pool of available compatible people shrinks with each passing year.

Dating after 60 is difficult, but not impossible. At the deli Meet and Greets, Dave, a widower, 93, met a new love and is very happy. Fred, also a widower, kept putting off attending. Once there, he met Joanne and they are now a couple. One reason fewer men than women attend is that women keep capturing them and taking them away.

Some of these men don’t come back.

Why? I’ve asked a few that I’ve seen at Costco or the hardware store.

The gist of their replies: “My new partner doesn’t want me to attend anymore.”

I wink and say, “Perhaps she’s afraid you’ll meet someone else.”

They smile and give me thumbs up.

But, don’t let the dreaded ratio or your age stop you from getting out and about.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013-January 9, 2014

There’s a lot of life to live—with or without a man or woman.

To comment and share advice, email Tom at 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 for more dating advice. CD

Page 15

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The 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 The Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@ thecapistranodispatch.com

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT WWW.THECAPISTRANODISPATCH.COM

FOR SALE TRUCK FOR SALE Ford Super Duty Pickup F350, Crew Cab, 4x4, Diesel 6 Speed Standard, A/C, Tow Pkg, Brush Guard, Nice truck $13,999 OBO, call 714-323-2130 GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

HELP WANTED MACHINE REPAIR TECHNICIAN – ENTRY LEVEL Job for Machine Repair Technician Trainee. Previous experience at tools a plus but we are willing to train the right person as apprentice trainee. Job requires candidate to repair and maintain industrial machinery.

Must have clean CA drivers license record.

Random drug testing. Local residents from Mission Viejo/San Juan Capistrano preferred.

Send resume via fax to 94.276.4231 or email md-aerospacemts@cox.net.

SALES PERSON WANTED Picket Fence Media, owner of the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and Capistrano Dispatch, is looking for an advertising sales rep to join our dynamic team. We’re looking for an organized, hard-working individual with a great personality who can create marketing solutions for local businesses and push for growth in both print and online media platforms. Ideal candidate will have prior experience with media sales. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Alyssa Garrett at agarrett@sanclementetimes.com.

Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY The only directory featuring San Juan Capistrano businesses exclusively AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

MOLD REMOVAL

Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 27126 Paseo Espada, Suite 1604, www.oasisair.com

PHOTO & DIGITAL LAB

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

949.373.8963

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

PLUMBING

COINS GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

949.350.4692

ELECTRICIANS

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

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

949.496.9731

San Juan Hills Dog Walking Services 949.542.4981 Safe, Certified, Insured & Bonded, www.sjhillsdogwalking.com

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

HOME ORGANIZATION

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

Karen Fischer, Professional Organizer, Get Organized and Move!

949.355.3487 www.getorganizedandmove.com

949.212.0499

SCHOOLS

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

LANDSCAPING

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013–January 9, 2014

949.499.4464

PROFESSIONAL DOG WALKING SERVICES

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

Vermeulen’s Landscaping Inc. bvland@cox.net

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

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

949.661.0967

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

TILE & STONE INSTALLATION/ RESTORATION Yorba Linda Tile & Marble, Inc. 714.757.3490 www.yorbalindatilemarble.com, CA License #789312

Page 16

Holiday Sale & Chairty Event! *Top Quality Handbag Sale* - Dooney & Bourke, Tignanello, B.Makowsky and more! By Dress Well Boutique. Co-Hosted with Cam Graeber, Keller Williams OC Coastal Realty (949) 533-7435. Mention your favorite charity and 20% of your total purchase will be donated to the charity of your choice! Saturday November 2nd, 10am-4pm. 33712 Calle Miramar, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 *(OR SHOWING ON OTHER DAYS BY APPOINTMENT)* Call Toll Free (855) 445-9881. www.DressWellBoutique.com

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

WOMEN’S CLOTHING & HANDBAG BOUTIQUE Dress Well Boutique 949.922.8044 33712 Calle Miramar, www.DressWellBoutique.com

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” Call today! Contact Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

STALLIONS RACK UP ALL-LEAGUE FOOTBALL HONORS

Here is a list of the San Juan Hills football players who received all-Sea View League honors.

After a standout season, senior quarterback Jacob Gibson was named the Sea View League Most Valuable Player. In four league games, Gibson threw for 776 yards, completing just over 76 percent of his passes, and 13 touchdowns. He only threw one interception in all four of the Stallions’ league wins.

Safety William Blum was named the league’s co-Defensive Player of the Year. Blum had a breakout year that saw him lead the team in total tackles

San Juan Hills quarterback Jacob Gibson was named the Sea View League MVP. Photo by Steve Breazeale

with 131. Blum caused two fumbles and had two interceptions in the Stallions league clinching win over Dana Hills on November 8.

Offensive linemen Jake Nelson

and Brandon Leggett, tight end Jordan Pape and wide receiver Matt Mucerino were named to the offensive first team.

Linebackers Brennan Walsh and Curran Lapes, defensive lineman Trey Clauser and defensive back Ian Hickey were named to the defensive first team.

Offensive linemen Joey Casillas and Chandler Hall, receivers Marco Cianciola and Mike Miscione and running back Brad Kremer were named to offensive second team. Defensive lineman Blake Berman, linebackers Tim Newman and Jacob Venegas and defensive back Nathan Montelongo were named to second team defense. — Steve Breazeale

San Juan Capistrano High School Winter Sports Preview both the Aliso Cup Tournament and their own, host tournament, the Lions have played more games than most teams in the early going, which can give them an experience edge as they gear up for the competitive Trinity League.

“We always play tough competition. And we’ve had a lot of games already that we’re going deep into, like four or five games.

That’s going to help us play as a unit and it gives me a chance to look at what the team does under pressure,” Fabulich said.—SB

By Steve Breazeale and Michael Vogeler The Capistrano Dispatch

T

his is the second part of our two-part series of local high school winter sports preview issues. This week, we feature the winter sports programs at JSerra Catholic and San Juan Hills.

Follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports for in-game updates, news and more.

JSERRA CATHOLIC GIRLS BASKETBALL Last Year: JSerra finished second in the Trinity League, advanced to the semifinals of the CIF-SS Division 4AA Championships and the third round of the CIF Division 4 State Championships.

Players to Watch: Coco Miller, Megan House and Caitlin Reis.

Outlook: The Lions may have lost their leader in August Touchard, who graduated and is playing at Grand Canyon University, but the JSerra girls basketball team still returns two key players who were part of last year’s deep CIF-SS and State Championship runs.

Miller, a junior guard, and House, a junior center, will lead a relatively young Lions (6-3) squad into the new season.

Miller and House have already started wreaking havoc on opposing teams in the early going, especially in the Fullerton Tournament, where the Lions went 4-0 and Miller was named tournament MVP. The Lions defeated both St. Bernard and Bishop Montgomery, two potential CIF-SS playoff teams, at the Redondo Union Battle of the Beach in early December.

Head coach Mary Rossignol said that with so many new faces, two freshman and one sophomore have been called up to join the nine-member roster, the Lions can have a different rotation on the floor every night. That wasn’t the case last

JSerra juniors Coco Miller, left, and Megan House return to lead the girls basketball team in 2014. Photo by Steve Breazeale

season, where the Lions had a set starting five and defined role players who came off the bench.

Rossignol is hoping that an ever changing lineup, at least for now, will help the Lions depth in the long run.

The team is guard-heavy and will rely on the prowess of Miller and House, a center with a few veteran players like Reis and guard Corinne Bogle, for experience and skill.

“I think the mental toughness and experience we gained last year is going to pay off for us, especially in the long run,” Rossignol said.

The Lions will head to the Holiday Hardwood Invitational from December 26-January 4. They have a rematch with St. Bernard set for January 4. — Steve Breazeale BOYS SOCCER Last Year: The Lions advanced to the semifinals of the CIF-SS Division 1

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013-January 9, 2014

Championships and finished second in the Trinity League.

Players to Watch: Ivan Canales, Ether Bustos, Justin Wagner and Carlos Solario Outlook: Head coach Davor Fabulich said the high volume of games the Lions (5-2-1) have played already, as of December 19, will help the team come together after losing six starting seniors to graduation in the offseason.

The Lions have already competed against several potential playoff teams, including reigning Trinity League champion and rival Santa Margarita.

Leading the way for the Lions will be the skill of their forwards, juniors Bustos and Julian Font. Fabulich says Bustos’ ability to finish and Font’s speed make them a threat to any defense.

The catalyst of the team will be junior center midfielder Canales, who Fabulich projects to play at the collegiate Division 1 level and possibly beyond.

Because the Lions have gone deep into

Page 17

GIRLS WATER POLO Last Year: N/A Players to Watch: Emily Lowell, Caroline Renezeder, Mariah Meyer and Krista Krantz Outlook: The Lions will look to use their effective counter attack to get wins in 2014.

Leading the way on offense is Renezeder, who led the team in goals last season.

The Lions defense should be a strength this year, according to head coach Julie Ertel. Lowell, a senior goalie, will be in charge of communicating with and forming the back line defense.

The Lions will have a difficult hill to climb in the Trinity League, which features Mater Dei and Santa Margarita, but Ertel believes the team’s league game against Orange Lutheran on January 14 should be a competitive one.

The team is set to compete in the Falcon Tournament from January 6-11. —Michael Vogeler BOYS BASKETBALL Last Year: The Lions went 17-9 overall and placed third in the Trinity League.

JSerra advanced to the quarterfinals of the CIF-SS Division 4AA Championships.

Players to Watch: Johnnie Vassar, Dylan Osetkowski, Blake McBride, Nick Pallas and Jayce Johnson Outlook: An influx of talented transfers mixed with veteran players has the JSerra (Cont. on page 18) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS (Cont. from page 17) boys basketball team primed for another CIF-SS playoff run.

Size will be the name of the game for the Lions (6-1), who added the 6-feet-11inch Johnson, a Mater Dei transfer, to the roster in the offseason. Johnson will join a formidable frontcourt made up of Pallas (6 feet 8 inches) and Osetkowski (6 feet 9 inches).

McBride, an all-around guard that can create his own shot, and Vassar, a tenacious point guard with high-scoring capabilities, round out head coach Joedy Gardner’s projected starting five.

Last year, Vassar, Pallas and Osetkowski were all new transfers and had to go through the process of meshing with new teammates. Now, with a full year under their belts together, the Lions appear to have found a comfort zone.

“I think we all complement each other.

This is the best team chemistry that I’ve ever been a part of,” Pallas said.

With all the focus sure to be on the big men, Gardner says the development of Vassar’s game will be crucial to their success. Vassar has always been a scoring guard but Gardner has seen his standout player sacrifice points for wins in the early going. Rather than go off on a shooting spree, Vassar has been responsible for instigating the offense, which starts with getting the ball in the hands of the frontcourt players.

The Lions have already competed in tough preseason tournaments, highlighted by a third-place effort at the Arizona Catholic Invitational. They will compete in the Maxpreps Holiday Classic from December 26-30. —SB SAN JUAN HILLS BOYS BASKETBALL Last Year: The Stallions went 7-22 overall and advanced to the first round of the CIF-SS Division 3AA Championships.

Players to Watch: Vincent McFadden, Kyle Luna, Connor Shaw and Isaiah Barnes Outlook: In order to stay relevant in the Sea View League, the San Juan Hills boys basketball team has been working on improving their defensive efforts as well as learning to play a mature, experienced brand of basketball over the offseason.

McFadden, who stands at 6 feet 7 inches tall, will be the focal point of the Stallions (4-4) offense. Head coach Kelly Hambrick says McFadden has been getting some notice on the Division 1 recruiting trail and has the ability to create plays, shoot 3-pointers and post up on offense.

Working down low will be Barnes, a 6-foot-4-inch post player. Hambrick says Barnes brings a physical toughness to the team and that he desires to be a consistent force in the paint.

Guiding the offense will be Luna, a junior point guard.

“I’m very happy with the team chemistry and the way we pull for each other …

Coming off some tough records the last

and place in the top three in league,” head coach Peter Carey said. –Michael Vogeler contributed to this report

Junior Taylor Haumea and the San Juan Hills girls water polo team will build their brand around an up tempo, pressing defense in 2014. Photo by Steve Breazeale

few years, that chemistry has been important,” Hambrick said.

The Stallions recently competed in the North OC Tournament, where they went 0-2, and will play in the Division 3 Extravaganza from January 3-4, with Sea View League play set to start on January 10. —SB GIRLS BASKETBALL Last Year: San Juan Hills went 15-12 overall and finished third in the Sea View League. They advanced to the first round of the CIF-SS Division 3AA Championships.

Players to Watch: Abby Conklin, Evelyn Fox and Jordan Coleman Outlook: The Stallions return all five of their starting players from last year’s CIF-SS playoff run and in the early part of the season, head coach Taryn Commins is already seeing a change in the team’s mindset.

Commins touched on the fact that last season, the team was young and talented, but struggled to grasp the concept of holding on to leads and finishing games.

That comes with experience. Given the Stallions 6-2 start (as of December 19), Commins believes the team is starting to understand that veteran mindset.

The addition of Coleman, a Kansas native, has shifted the dynamic of the Stallions depth chart in a positive way.

Coleman, who plays point guard, provides the team with offensive firepower that compliments Conklin’s game.

As of December 19 Conklin, last year’s leading scorer, was averaging 14.3 points

The Capistrano Dispatch December 27, 2013-January 9, 2014

Page 18

per game and Coleman was averaging 14 points.

Allie Biedermann, Julia Lindsay and Katie Edwards are contributing with considerable minutes off the bench.

The Stallions will continue to play the man-to-man, half-court style of defense that brought them success last season.

The Stallions recently went 3-1 at the Ocean View Tournament and will play in the upcoming Max Preps Tournament at the end of the month, with an eye set on Sea View League play in mid-January.

—SB BOYS SOCCER Last Year: The Stallions went 5-11-2 overall.

Players to Watch: Sergio Sanchez, Moises Torres and Alexis Campos Outlook: The Stallions are preparing themselves for Sea View League play by not shying away from tough opponents in the preseason.

So far in the early going, the Stallions (23-1) have played against Capistrano Valley, Century and Santa Margarita, which are all top-10 teams in their respective CIF-SS divisions. The three matches have all resulted in losses for the Stallions, but they played Capistrano Valley close in a 2-1 loss December 4.

The Stallions will be led by the trio of seniors in Sanchez (midfield), Torres (midfield) and Campos (goalie), who has one shutout on his resume in 2013.

“We are a very disciplined, attack-minded team … Our goal is to qualify for CIF

GIRLS SOCCER Last Year: The Stallions finished second in the Sea View League, going 8-4-8 overall. The team advanced to the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships.

Players to Watch: Vanessa Gonzalez and Emily Steil Outlook: The Stallions took a big hit to graduation, losing 10 seniors who were a part of last year’s second-place league finish. The new, 2014 roster consists of three freshmen, nine sophomores and only three seniors.

Although they lost valuable experience, the Stallions will have a strong back line defense, according to head coach Farrel Moore. Gonzalez, a senior captain who is committed to Mercy College, will play center back and hold down a line that is made up of three sophomores and a freshman goalie.

“They may be young but the way they play together is great,” Moore said of the defense.

The Stallions offense is still a work in progress, but so far sophomores Shayna Larson, Madison Guerrero and Isabella Angotti-Jones have been platooning the front lines, searching for goals. AngottiJones scored twice in the Stallions 3-0 shutout of Woodbridge on December 17.

As of December 19, the Stallions were off to a 6-1 start to their season and will play against tough competition in the coming weeks, including matches against Dana Hills and JSerra, before heading into Sea View League play. —SB GIRLS WATER POLO Last Year: The Stallions finished last in the Sea View League.

Players to Watch: Alexis Richardson and Zoe Zax Outlook: The San Juan Hills girls water polo team will lean on the strength of two seniors and a returning crop of juniors throughout their 2014 campaign.

Anchoring the Stallions (0-4) defense will be Zax, a four-year starting goalie.

Head coach Dan Newberry says Zax’s role in the net is crucial to the team’s success and the veteran has the ability to control the defense and set the tone.

On offense the Stallions rely on the play of Richardson, a second-team All-Sea View League returning senior. Richardson is a versatile scoring threat in the Stallions offense and Newberry has routinely positioned her at the two-meter spot as well as up top in the offense, facilitating and scoring when necessary.

“They’re learning to play together as a team finally and they get along really well.

The communication level is getting better,” Newberry said.

The Stallions will play a constant, high pressure style on defense, which Newberry pegged as one of the team’s strengths and something he says should lead to more wins in 2014. —SB CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com