May 23, 2014

Memorial Wall Pays Tribute to Nation’s Fallen Soldiers OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

LIVING/PAGE 16 FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

MAY 23-JUNE 5, 2014 • VOLUME 12, ISSUE 10

Opening Doors to Higher Education Breakthrough San Juan supports motivated students and puts them on the college track E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 7

Breakthrough San Juan, a tuition-free academic program run out of St. Margaret’s Episcopal School aims to give high-achieving students from underserved background a better shot at a college degree. Photo: Brian Park

Downtown Hotel Developer Secures Builder, Operator EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

CUSD Considers Names for New Rancho Mission Viejo School EYE ON SJC/PAGE 5

A New You: Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life SPECIAL INSERT

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

The first two fires scorched more than 21,900 acres. The Tomahawk Fire, which started Wednesday morning near the Naval Weapons Station Fallbrook on the base’s eastern border, burned an estimated 5,400 acres and is fully contained. The Pulgas Fire, located east of Interstate 5 near the Las Pulgas gate, spread to 15,000 acres and was 99 percent contained as of press time.

The Combat Fire ignited just before noon on Friday and burned 1,500 acres in the base’s northern Talega area. An evacuation order was issued for all personnel in the base’s 62 Area, or Camp San Mateo, home of the 5th Marine Corps Regiment.

Also, the San Onofre Housing Area and School of Infantry West were ordered to evacuated, but both were lifted Saturday.

Five things San Juan should know this week Downtown Hotel Developer Secures Builder, Operator THE LATEST: The developer behind the proposal to build a hotel in downtown San Juan Capistrano announced this week that they have secured a contract with a builder and a commitment from a hotel operator.

In an email sent Wednesday, May 21, Joshua Host, principal at Urban Village, said Hilton Worldwide, the multi-billion dollar company that owns and manages the Hilton Hotel chain, has committed to operate a “full service, four-star Hilton.”

Host also said that Urban Village has signed a contract with a Hilton-recommended developer to build the hotel.

The $43 million project calls for a 136-room hotel, 33 townhomes and 2,700 square feet of commercial space on 3.2 acres at 31878 Camino Capistrano, adjacent to Historic Town Center Park.

WHAT’S NEXT: Although city officials and residents have largely been in support of a hotel, some have expressed concern about the amount of parking the project would provide, as well as its proximity to Historic Town Center Park and the historic Egan House.

In April, Host presented revised plans to the Planning Commission that scaled back the hotel from the historic structure and created new pedestrian pathways. Commissioners delayed approval for the plans to give city staff more time to ensure the hotel would be built. Host’s announcement seemingly allays those concerns.

The commission is scheduled to reconsider the proposal on Tuesday, May 27.

– Brian Park

Councilman Reeve Issues ‘Call to Action’ Against Increased Water Rates THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano City Councilman Derek Reeve is asking residents to send in letters of protest against the city’s plans to increase water rates.

In an email titled “Together We Can Fight City Hall!” sent to local media on The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

A plane drops fire retardant to halt the spread of the Combat Fire last Friday at Camp Pendleton near Christianitos Road. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Tuesday, May 13, Reeve urges water customers to fill out and submit forms to City Hall. He cited Proposition 218, a state law which requires rates to be relative to cost of service and for cities to hold public forums to discuss rate increases. If the majority of the city’s water customers protest, Reeve said the council cannot approve the rates.

Since January, the council and Utilities Commission have held several workshops to consider a new tiered rate structure put together by Raftelis Financial Consultants.

Mayor Sam Allevato and Councilmen Larry Kramer and John Taylor voted to approve 5 percent increases over the next five years but also to increase the amount of water customers can use at the lowest tier.

The city’s current rate structure was declared illegal by an Orange County Superior Court judge last August in a lawsuit brought against the city by the Capistrano Taxpayers Association. The city has appealed the ruling and continues to charge customers based on that model.

WHAT’S NEXT: The new rate structure will go into effect July 1.

Reeve said residents must submit their protest forms before the end of the council’s June 17 meeting, when they are scheduled to conduct a public hearing about the rates.

The city is hosting two additional water forums to answer questions and receive public input on Thursday, May 29 and Tuesday, June 10, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Community Center.

The CTA is also hosting an informational meeting on Thursday, June 5, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Capistrano Community Church. – BP

CUSD Considers Names for New Rancho Mission Viejo School THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District identified eight potential names for its new K-8 school in Rancho Mission Viejo on Wednesday, May 14.

Possible names for the school include: Barbara L. Banda, a local woman who helped bring Native American education into the district; Esencia, named after the village the school will be built in; Ronald Reagan, the 40th U.S. President; Glenn T. Seaboard, a Nobel Prize winning American chemist; Helena Modjeska, a famous Shakespearean actress who lived and died in Orange County; and Ortega Oaks.

Teresa Romero, chairwoman of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation tribal council, also suggested five names and mascots, two of which were selected: Coronne Chiefs, inspired by the tribe’s first female chief, and Acjachema Aswuts, named after the tribe and their native word for golden eagles.

WHAT’S NEXT: District staff will further research the names for the board to make their decision at their next meeting, Wednesday, May 28. – BP

Three Camp Pendleton Fires Contained THE LATEST: Firefighters from several agencies were able to bring under control three fires that burned swaths of Camp Pendleton last week and sent black smoke billowing into the sky.

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WHAT’S NEXT: Despite the proximity of the fires, none were reported in Orange County, said Capt. Steve Concialdi, spokesman for the Orange County Fire Authority.

The Combat Fire was driven largely by heat and topography and not by wind, according to OCFA Fire Capt. Mitch Kahn, who said it was the largest fire he could remember within sight of San Clemente in the last decade. – Jim Shilander

County Introduces Balanced Budget THE LATEST: The Orange County Board of Supervisors will be voting on a proposal for a slightly larger budget for its coming fiscal year.

That county’s general fund budget includes a 3 percent increase to $3 billion and includes 91 new positions from last year’s budget. The budget also includes projections for 2.5 percent job growth and a 5.5 percent increase in personal income in the coming year.

“External indicators for 2014 reflect that the local economy is experiencing a moderate recovery, trending more favorable when compared to state and national economies,” the staff report reads.

WHAT’S NEXT: Public budget hearings will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 10, and Wednesday, June 11, at the Hall of Administration Board Hearing Room, 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana. A one-hour public budget preview will begin at 8 a.m. on June 10 in the Hall of Administration Planning Commission Hearing Room. – JS

Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about?

••• Send your suggestions to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Community NEWS BITES Marco Forster Robotics Meetings COMPILED BY BRIAN PARK

TUESDAY 5.27

Cultural Heritage Commission Meeting

5 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

Planning Commission Meeting

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

WEDNESDAY 5.28

Rotary Club Meeting 6:15 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Regular meeting includes fellowship and an informative presentation from a guest speaker. Occurs every Wednesday. Sarducci’s Capistrano Depot, 26701 Verdugo Street, Ste. 201. www.sjcrotary.org.

Team Competes in World Championship

A group of students from Marco Forster Middle School showed off their engineering prowess during the VEX Robotics World Championship on April 25-26.

As part of the VEX IQ Challenge—an international competition that asks students to build robots using science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, education—three teams from Marco Forster competed in a regional event in Irvine.

One team, System Overload, won the STEM Project Award, qualifying them for the state competition in Santa Clara. There, the team won the Sportsmanship Award, putting them in the international showcase in Anaheim, where they competed against a team from China and ultimately finished 29th in the middle school division.

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting

7 p.m. Capistrano Unified School District Office Board Room, 33122 Valle Road. www.capousd.org.

Bea Torres shows Nate Warriner, 9, how to make a tortilla during the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society’s second annual Fiesta Day. Photo: Brian Park

dens, featured more than 50 vendors and exhibitors, as well as gardening demonstrations and kid-friendly activities focused on conservation.

Proceeds from the event will help support Goin Native’s Los Rios Garden Angels, a group of volunteers that meet at Los Rios Park each week to maintain and improve its landscaping and gardens.

FRIDAY 5.30

Historical Society Takes Guests on a Trip Down Memory Lane

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.

Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano.

MONDAY 6.2

Open Space, Trails and Equestrian Commission Meeting 6 p.m.

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

TUESDAY 6.3

City Council, Housing Authority and Successor Agency Meeting 6 p.m.

After winning at the regional and state levels, System Overload, a robotics team from Marco Forster Middle School, competed in the VEX Robotics World Championship in Anaheim. Courtesy photo

Gardening, Environmental Enlightenment at Eco Xpo A steady crowd of green thumbs and environmentally conscious guests made their way to Los Rios Park over the weekend for the inaugural Eco Xpo garden show.

The two-day event, organized by the nonprofit Goin Native Therapeutic Gar-

Visitors who stopped by the O’Neill Museum in the Los Rios Historic District on Saturday, May 17, got a chance to see what life was like in the past during the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society’s second annual Fiesta Day. The family-friendly event included several demonstration booths and exhibits showcasing artifacts from 19th and 20th century San Juan Capistrano, including items donated for the day by the Mission and the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum.

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

WEDNESDAY 6.4

Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. A speaker

from San Juan Capistrano Police Services will deliver the next talk in a series about what businesses can do to prevent burglary. $15 for chamber members, $25 for non-members. To RSVP, email info@sanjuanchamber.com. The Vintage Steakhouse, 26701-B Verdugo Street. www.sanjuanchamber.com.

The day’s highlights included members of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians leading children in a jewelry-making activity using materials that their tribal ancestors would have used. Bea Torres, a longtime docent at the Mission, returned to the event to show guests how to make her cilantro tortillas. Actors from the Camino Real Playhouse took to the front porch of the O’Neill Museum to perform a short show about San Juan’s past.

Grand Openings for Reata Park, Library Bookstore On Saturday, May 31, the city will host a dedication ceremony for the new Reata Park and Event Center, located at 28632 Ortega Highway. The event will include live entertainment, dancing, a petting zoo, pony rides, exhibits and tours. The celebration runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free to attend.

On Sunday, June 1, the Friends of the Library is set to unveil its new bookstore—simply dubbed “The Bookstore”— at the San Juan Capistrano Library, located at 31495 El Camino Real.

The event begins with the Friends’ annual meeting at 1 p.m., followed by a performance by Mariachi for All. At 2 p.m., the Rev. Monsignor Arthur Holquin from Mission Basilica will lead a dedication ceremony and the Chamber of Commerce will organize a ribbon cutting.

From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the Friends will also be hosting their 30th anniversary Pearl Jubilee Gala and Concert fundraiser.

Tickets for both the gala and concert cost $75 and $20 for just the concert. They can be purchased at the door or in advance by calling 949.218.4512. For more information, visit www.sjcfol.org.

FRIDAY 6.13

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

Clifford Meng (right) helps Aly Guzman pick out a selection of succulents during the inaugural Eco Xpo in Los Rios Park. Photo: Brian Park

Page 5

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Opening Doors to Higher Education Breakthrough San Juan supports motivated students and puts them on the college track

BY BRIAN PARK, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

W

hen Fabian Tovar was in elementary school, he’d often translate, from English to Spanish, his homework assignments and school notices to his parents.

“It was a challenge at some points to really get the message across to them but they trusted me,” Tovar said. “They knew they couldn’t help me much with school, but they encouraged me to make good friends and be around positive people.”

That lesson, Tovar took to heart.

As a sixth grader at Marco Forster Middle School, Tovar’s good friends introduced him to Breakthrough San Juan, a tuition-free academic program run out of St. Margaret’s Episcopal School that provides support for students, from the eighth grade all the way through high school.

Tovar, now a junior at Capistrano Valley High School, continues to surround himself with positive people. Thanks to Breakthrough, he’s on track to become the first member of his family to attend a four-year university.

“I feel like it’ll be a start of a new legacy in my family,” Tovar said. “I’ll feel like my parents’ sacrifices won’t be in vain.”

Breakthrough San Juan is part of a national nonprofit program, Breakthrough Collaborative, which aims to help highachieving students from low-income, underserved backgrounds get to college.

It’s one of 33 sites across the country but the only one in Southern California.

Through outreach and informational presentations, eligible sixth graders at Marco Forster can apply for the program, which typically accepts around 25 students each year. The students must complete a rigorous application and interview process to gain acceptance.

“It feels fun to be involved in a program for that long and because it lets me have

Bryan Boyce, assistant director of Breakthrough San Juan, helps Amy Fabian, a seventh grader at Marco Forster Middle School, apply for a scholarship. Photo: Brian Park

so many opportunities that I wouldn’t have had,” said 12-year-old Amy Fabian, who is in her first year in the program and is using that application experience to apply for a scholarship at the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, which provides financial assistance to outstanding seventh graders.

Since Breakthrough was launched at St. Margaret’s in 2006, it’s worked with more than 200 Marco Forster students, who go on to attend Capistrano Valley, Dana Hills and San Juan Hills high schools. In its first two graduating classes, 100 percent of Breakthrough students earned their high school diploma and more than 60 percent are attending college, including Beloit College, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Cal State Fullerton, San Francisco State University and Saddleback College.

Of the 84 students currently in the

Fabian Tovar, a junior at Capistrano Valley High School, researches information online for his homework during one of Breakthrough San Juan’s weekly tutoring sessions at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley.

Photo: Brian Park

The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

program, 86 percent are eligible to receive free or reduced price lunches at school.

Nine out of 10 students will be the first members of their family to attend college and 83 percent live in a household where English is not the primary language.

“That presents a lot of obstacles,” said Lorena Martinez, director of the program.

In addition to working with students, Breakthrough teachers and staff meet regularly with parents to teach them how to navigate the school system and encourage them to be more supportive of their child’s education.

“We’re very purposeful in all our meetings. All our materials are bilingual,” Martinez said. “We involve the whole family because we know in order for a student to be successful, they need that family support. That’s a very powerful aspect.”

Larissa Sosa’s son, Angelo Macedo, is a Breakthrough student who’s currently a sophomore at San Juan Hills High School.

Macedo was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome—a high-functioning form of autism—at a young age. Sosa, a single parent who didn’t finish college in Venezuela, has always been involved in her son’s education, but through Breakthrough, she’s gotten better insights into how she can help Macedo do what she couldn’t.

“They always keep you informed about what is out there: workshops, information about every single college and how to get into those colleges,” Sosa said. “Breakthrough was a door, an open opportunity.

It was knowledge and education for parents. You have to be ready, so your kid is ready to take those opportunities.

“He is a college-bound kid. He had dreams. He wants it all. We’re working on that. We’re going to get every single application, and I’m going to apply for every

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financial aid I can find.”

Breakthrough’s mission is two-fold. In addition to helping students and their parents, the program aims to train the next generation of teachers.

Each summer, the program invites students studying education at colleges and universities across the country—including Columbia, Harvard, Stanford, UCLA and USC—to stay in San Juan Capistrano and help teach the next wave of Breakthrough students. The student teachers are guided

by Breakthrough staff, as well as volunteer teachers and professors from local high schools and universities.

Martinez, herself, was a student teacher in the Breakthrough San Juan program in 2008, while studying sociology at UC Berkeley.

“I wasn’t intending on working in education, but I had such a positive experience that after that summer, I knew for the rest of my life I wanted to work in education,” said Martinez, who moved on to teach with Teach for America and at a high school in South Dakota. “I came from a low-income family and was the first person to graduate from college, so I related to the mission very strongly.”

Martinez and her staff have taken Breakthrough’s message into the community to garner more support, including presentations to the San Juan Capistrano City Council and at weekly Coffee Chat meetings.

Last year, Breakthrough received funding through an AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) grant that allowed them to bring on two yearlong staff members, Sandra Alvarez and Jenna Robinson. Through their work, Breakthrough has been able to double their staff of volunteers by creating partnerships with local high schools, as well as with the Boys & Girls Club, where students receive weekly tutoring sessions and college presentations.

“Community investment—we have a town of it and it’s awesome,” said Assistant Director Bryan Boyce. “That’s something for San Juan Capistrano to be proud of, right there with the swallows.”

Although the program receives a portion of their funding from Breakthrough Collaborative and St. Margaret’s, its support largely comes from charitable donations and community support.

Robinson’s mission is to further develop community partnerships, not just for potential financial support but for active involvement.

“We’ve started to suggest our Breakthrough students at local businesses to give our students that exposure to the workforce and some hands-on experience,” Robinson said. “As we’ve increased awareness, tons of people have been moved. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

News Next Door WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

SAN CLEMENTE

Surrounded by officials from the city and Chamber of Commerce, as well as their staff, the new owners, veterinarians and husband-and-wife team Matthew Brehmer and Lynlee Fluent (center) cut the ribbon to the Ortega Animal Care Center. Courtesy of the Chamber of Commerce

Business Beat News and notes from San Juan Capistrano’s business community

BY BRIAN PARK

New Ownership ORTEGA ANIMAL CARE CENTER 27341 Ortega Highway, 949.487.7600, www.ortegaanimalcare.com With two new veterinarians at the helm, Ortega Animal Care Center held a grand opening and open house celebration on Saturday, May 17 to reintroduce the business to the community.

Veterinarians—and husband-and-wife team—Matthew Brehmer and Lynlee Fluent bought the practice last November. Fluent, a Dana Point native, had been working at a practice in Rancho Santa Margarita, and Brehmer worked in Mission Viejo. When the opportunity to purchase Ortega Animal Care Center came their way, they jumped on it.

“We didn’t think we’d get a facility like this. We were driven by the potential for the veterinary side to grow, as well as everything an animal needs,” Brehmer said.

Since taking over the 8-year-old business, the couple has introduced a few new changes. Brehmer highlighted a new state-of-the-art dental x-ray machine The Capistrano Dispatch May 23–June 5, 2014

that he said help vets “check for where the real disease happens under the gum lines.” New digital x-rays and ultra sound machines have also been added, as well as a refurbished surgery site. The new additions reflect the couple’s areas of interest and expertise: Brehmer in internal medicine and dermatology and Fluent in soft tissue surgery and dentistry.

In the coming months, Brehmer said the hospital hopes to introduce new nutritional-based medicines that address health concerns caused by obesity.

The center’s boarding and grooming service has also seen some changes, including extended hours. Grooming is now offered seven days a week, and with boarding, Brehmer said there will always be an attendant to care for the animals and that he and his wife would be on call, 24 hours a day. At full capacity, the center is able to board around 120 animals.

Boarding kennels have been refurbished with new amenities, including new bedding and televisions.

Open House CLUB PILATES 27184 Ortega Highway, #206, 949.257.2292, www.clubpilatesstudio.com Although they’ve been open for nine months, Club Pilates co-owners Keely Watson and Liz Wright hope to provide an introduction to their studio and the exercise with an open house on Saturday, May 24, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The event also includes discounted classes, snacks, beverages, gifts and raffle drawings. Instructors will also be on hand to answer any questions about Pilates.

Club Pilates, based in San Diego, has over 20 locations, primarily based in Southern California but also in Colorado, Michigan and Wisconsin. Locally, they also have studios in Costa Mesa and San Clemente and plan to open in Huntington Beach and Irvine. Their first international branch will be built in Australia, with no definite timeline.

Watson and Wright both worked at the Club Pilates studio in downtown San Diego before opening up in San Juan. At their open house, Wright said they hope to demystify people’s knowledge of Pilates and show how exercises can repair bodies burdened by the day-to-day.

“We live pretty sedentary lifestyles at our desk. Our spines flex forward and that does a lot of bad things to our backs, our muscles,” Wright said. “Pilates tries to reverse all that.”

While some Pilates exercises are done on mats, many require the use of machines called reformers—think rowing machines—and springboards. Trainers lead a class of clients through different motions and exercises that Wright said are appropriate for all ages.

Club Pilates offers about 70 classes a week, from 5:15 a.m. to 7 p.m., for clients of different skill levels or needs. While some may aim to burn as many calories as possible, other courses focus on restoring health and eliminating pain. CD

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The city of San Clemente must return more than $10 million dollars to residents collected from the Beach Parking Impact Fee fund, collected since 1989 from new development to provide new beach parking places, Orange County Superior Court Judge Thierry Colaw ruled Friday.

Colaw, who ruled against the city in January, formally signed the case’s order of judgment Friday. It is still to be determined if the plaintiffs in the case will be entitled to collect attorney’s fees as well. A hearing on that motion will be held Friday, May 23.

The ruling requires San Clemente to return the funds as of Aug. 15, 2012, the date the suit was filed, in addition to interest on that amount.

The city has 90 days to compile a list of addresses that paid into the fund, along with the date and amount of those payments.

Additionally, the list must include the name on the last official County Assessor’s property tax list for the address.

The repayment will be calculated based on the year and amount of payment plus interest earned.

The city council has already voted to appeal the ruling.

DANA POINT Despite concerns from boaters, the Planning Commission approved Orange County’s application May 12 to demolish and rebuild much of the Dana Point Harbor’s aging structures.

Commissioners approved the coastal development permit in a 4-1 vote, moving the $140 million project, nearly 20 years in the making, closer to breaking ground.

“This revitalization might not have everything that everyone wants … but so many bodies have overseen this process. It’s been vetted,” said Commissioner April O’Connor.

Commissioner Norm Denton cast the dissenting vote. Denton changed his vote after the permit vote was tied with the conceptual approval of a more than 50,000-squarefoot, 400-boat, dry-storage structure.

More than 20 speakers highlighted the revitalization need, but nearly half raised issue with the impacts parking, off-site boat storage during construction and the potential storage structure, dubbed the “boat barn,” could have on boaters. The “barn” must still get the California Coastal Commission’s OK. With the approval, the county can now move ahead with plans to flatten 13 buildings and construct seven new structures in the Harbor’s “commercial core.”

The project will add retail, commercial and office space along with a 35,000-square-foot park. The Commission also approved a two-level structure that will add more than 500 parking spaces.

OC Dana Point Harbor Director Brad Gross said commercial construction could begin in 2015. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY BRIAN PARK

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.

Wednesday, May 21 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle San Luis/Avenida De La Vista (10:01 a.m.) Four men and a woman who had a child were seen smoking marijuana from an apple.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32300 Block (2:50 a.m.) Several juveniles were climbing onto equipment at a construction site.

Tuesday, May 20 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Paseo San Gabriel, 26500 Block (9:58 p.m.) A concerned caller said there were six to nine men with black bags acting suspiciously in front of a residence.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Los Rios Street, 31400 Block (8:33 p.m.) Three to four men were seen smoking drugs in a hallway.

be an officer or detective from Florida.

The man was told one of his employees was a suspect for counterfeiting bills. The man said he could not confirm if the caller was a real officer.

Monday, May 19 DRUNK IN PUBLIC La Novia Avenue/Via Sequoia (7:16 p.m.) A drunken man, described to be between 18 and 22 years old, was seen passed out in the bushes.

FOLLOW UP REPORT Via Leona, 28800 Block (11:07 a.m.) A woman said her ex-husband was sending graphic pictures of her to various people.

Sunday, May 18 DRUNK IN PUBLIC Calle San Juan, 31200 Block (2:23 p.m.) Several men were seen drinking in a garage and using the side of a laundry room to urinate.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (3:27 a.m.) A woman said she smelled a strong odor coming from a residence. She believed that the person living there was selling drugs.

Saturday, May 17 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Via San Vicente, 31100 Block (3:08 a.m.) A caller said there was a loud party with underage drinking going on to the left of his home.

Friday, May 16

KEEP THE PEACE Los Rios Street, 31500 Block (5:25 p.m.) A caller traced their missing iPad to a location. The device had not been reported lost or stolen.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street/Paseo Adelanto (9:54 p.m.) Four drunken men wearing backpacks were seen in a physical altercation. No weapons were reported.

KEEP THE PEACE Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (5:07 p.m.) A woman said she had tracked the location of her missing cell phone to a mobile home park. She told dispatch that it was located at the back of the complex.

DISTURBANCE La Novia Avenue/Via Sequoia (6:16 p.m.) A woman said three subjects had just jumped a fence to get to a pool. The woman wanted to remain anonymous but said she wanted deputies at the location because she feared for her safety.

DISTURBANCE Los Rios Street, 31400 Block (3:39 p.m.) A group of five juveniles were seen smoking drugs in a nearby alley. The caller said this was an ongoing problem.

VANDALISM IN PROGRESS Woodlake Court, 29600 Block (2:16 p.m.) A caller discovered graffiti on their garage. The caller’s neighbor came over and said the neighbors at a nearby home were the culprits.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Plaza Drive, 31800 Block (1:14 p.m.) Two men were reportedly sitting on the ground in an alley behind Center Home Furniture.

The caller said one of the men was “blubbering” and crying.

CITIZEN ASSIST Rancho Viejo Road, 30900 Block (12:39 p.m.) A man said he had received a call from someone claiming to Page 9

DISTURBANCE Calle San Luis, 26400 Block (2:13 p.m.) Three women were seen drinking alcohol in front of a residence before heading toward Calle San Juan.

Thursday, May 15 STOLEN VEHICLE Spring Street/El Camino Real (3:03 p.m.) A caller reported their 2002 black GMC Denali was missing from Mission Parish School.

Wednesday, May 14 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Capistrano/Avenida La Paloma (8:50 p.m.) An apparently homeless man turned on a hose behind an urgent care facility and was flooding the alley. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: By Sam Allevato, San Juan Capistrano Mayor

Serving the Citizens Who Elected Us No one wants increased water rates but avoiding the problem is irresponsible

B

y now you should have received your “Notice of Public Hearings on Proposed Water and Sewer Rate Changes,” which is required by Proposition 218.

This process has entailed months of research by our staff and our paid consultants, Raftelis Financial, in addition to several public water forums and joint City Council/Utilities Commission work sessions, where the public was invited to participate and to provide input.

The result is a very comprehensive study of the city’s cost to provide water and sewer service to our residents. For single-family residences, the sewer fee will be reduced by nearly 12 percent. Eightyone percent of our residents will experience a reduction, no change or a maximum $5 per month increase in their water bills. Nine percent of our residents will see a modest $5 to $10 increase in their bills.

This new rate structure will eliminate the water fund deficit in two years, support modest capital improvements and build emergency and capital reserves to 50 percent of the recommended levels by 2020. It should be noted that our imported water provider, Metropolitan Water, will be increasing their water rates to cities by

5 percent yearly for the foreseeable future, and this increase is accounted for in this study.

Earlier this year, the City Council voted to initiate this study because one had not been done Sam Allevato for nearly five years, and many factors—such as increased production by and improvements to the Groundwater Recovery Plant—have changed during this time.

It should be noted that Councilmen Roy Byrnes and Derek Reeve voted against even doing a study because they said it was being done only to raise rates. I am sure you would agree that it makes good business sense and is the responsible thing to do for a city to complete a rate study and establish fair and defensible rates, especially since the rate study done in 2009-2010 is being challenged in court.

Not only did Byrnes and Reeve not want a study done, they did not participate in the water rate structure design options and pricing objectives exercise and missed either joint City Council/Utilities Commission meetings and/or water forums for the public. These workshops were meant to

gather the policy decision by your councilmembers and concerns from the public and include this information in the rate study.

Such factors as fairness to the public, affordability for essential use and equitability of resource allocation were rated the highest by the three councilmembers— myself, Larry Kramer and John Taylor— who did participate fully in every meeting and exercise.

I believe no one on the council wants to raise water rates. However, to stick your head in the sand and not acknowledge this precious resource is becoming more expensive, and to not fully participate in the planning for its reliable delivery, is a serious disservice to the public we serve.

Councilman Reeve’s “call to action” to fight City Hall over this rate study is misguided and disingenuous on his part. To first vote against doing a study at all, then to not fully participate in the process and now claim “foul” by the city he has sworn to support and defend, is irresponsible in my opinion.

Sam Allevato has lived in San Juan Capistrano for more than 37 years. He is currently serving his third term as mayor and was first appointed to the council in March 2004. CD

GUEST OPINION: My Turn by Jonathan Volzke

Capistrano Adds a Pearl to its Collection

S

an Antonio, Texas made headlines earlier this year when it opened what many believe is a glimpse into the future: a $2.3 million public library that doesn’t contain a single book. It’s the first public library to go all digital in the country. Newport Beach officials considered an all-electronic branch a few years back but backed off when residents threw the book at them.

Some might argue that in this day and age of e-readers that libraries would be fading toward MY TURN obscurity. But not in San

By Jonathan Volzke Juan Capistrano, where our library sits across from the Basilica.

Not only is our Michael Gravesdesigned library stocked with books, it’s a tourist draw itself and a cultural center that hosts events and concerts.

It takes another huge leap forward June 1, when the Friends of the Library Bookstore opens.

The Mission is the jewel and the Library The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

has become our pearl.

Library bookstores are common across the OC Public Library system, and important. With the county controlling the budget, bookstores are a local fundraiser that can meet the specific needs of our local community. Our Friends of the Library—run entirely by volunteers—has paid for everything from new carpet in the library to special events.

The Friends have long had a bookstore, but it was stuck in a cramped room in the back. The new bookstore is more visible and has its own entrance so volunteers can set the store hours separate from those of the library. It’s been a decade-long dream and many deserve credit.

Want to help? There’s a few easy things you can do: Volunteer. If you have a few hours to spare, call 949.218.4512.

Donate. Donations are accepted on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons.

Shop. Great books, great prices.

There’s another—very fun—way to help, too. Attend the June 1 events.

At 1:30 p.m., Mariachis for All will perform and Ricardo’s Place food will be served. The Juaneño blessing is at 2 p.m., with Msgr. Art Holquin’s dedication immediately thereafter. It’s all wrapped up by a Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting.

The evening will feature the “String of Pearls” Gala & Concert, the Friends’ first in their 2014 Multicultural Arts Concert series. The evening features the Saddleback College 17-piece orchestra. A full bar and a catered dinner will be available.

Tickets are $75 for the gala and concert.

See www.sjcfol.org or call 949.218.4512 for more.

San Juan Capistrano resident Jonathan Volzke is an award-winning journalist for the Orange County Register and founder and former editor of The Capistrano Dispatch. CD

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.thecapistranodispatch.com

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Brian Park, 949.388.7700, x108 bpark@thecapistranodispatch.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Lisa Consenza (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

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 ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting Manager Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Catherine Manso, Jenna Ross, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 12, Issue 10. 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 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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, email us at editor@capistranodispatch.com

Page 10

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SOAPBOX

Letters to the Editor SOMETHING AMISS WITH VERMEULEN PROJECT —Pam Zamoscianyk, San Juan Capistrano I’m reaching out as a very concerned local resident. There’s a mistrust happening in San Juan Capistrano right now.

The Vermeulen property that is currently home to Armstrong Nursery and Farm to Market is being sold to be a retirement city. I’m not against development. I’m against rezoning 43 acres of agriculture/ commercial to very high density.

San Juan Capistrano has tons of traffic issues already. Now they want to add two large communities where the road turns into one lane?

San Juan Capistrano has already agreed to the Olivia development across the street for 40 single-family homes. Now they want to add 426 more residences and a health care center?

On top of that, our water table is quickly diminishing. Where do they expect to get water from?

A Continuing Life DBA, Laguna Glen, already has office bungalows, which required adding sewer lines in the Armstrong Nursery parking lot. Yet the property hasn’t been rezoned? Also, Laguna Glen has received permission to accept deposits from the California Department of Social Services. Yet nothing has been finalized with the city?

When are the formal community notifications? There is supposed to be, at minimum, four public meetings: two three-hour public meetings, each, for the Planning Commission and City Council.

Please read for yourself, on the city’s website, the request for proposals for landuse planning. The projects are listed as “Spieker Senior Development” and “Olivia, The New Company.”

TIME TO PICK-UP THE TRASH —Michael Brang, San Juan Capistrano Jonathan Volzke brought up some very good points about San Juan in his last column (“Touring Our Town by Bike,” April 25-May 8).

The bike and horse trails and open space are one of the most wonderful things about living here. Even if you can’t get out every day, the open space is a welcome view off the freeway, on the way home from a tough day at work.

It is hard to navigate on a bike to get across from the west part of town to the east because of the Interstate 5, and I am hoping the new Ortega interchange will have a bikeway.

One other point Jonathan made: litter.

In San Juan, it is everywhere. I applaud the person who was collecting it. We should all jump off of our bikes and pick it up. My wife and I do. I don’t think I have The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

ever taken a walk and not come home and deposit some sort of collected trash. Walk from the Harbor, up Del Obispo and the trash starts at Del Avion and continues.

What is it here in this city that has prevented city management from being more proactive on this issue? Where I work in Irvine/Lake Forest, I have seen, on numerous occasions, city trucks pull to the curb, pull out a broom and dustpan to sweep up as much as a single Taco Bell bag. The streets where I work are pristine.

Now, here in San Juan, there has been a wooden pallet on Del Obispo, near City Hall, for over a month. What’s the deal?

The city plants new landscaping along Alipaz and the creek and becomes a collection area for trash.

Jonathan and The Dispatch should take the City Manager and City Council on a bike ride around town and show them the sights. The city might just see things from a different perspective—like our tourists and guests—and just maybe, the city trucks will have standing orders to stop and pick up a little trash, instead of waiting for Jonathan’s new friend with the grabber.

This city can be better.

PLANS FOR RETAIL CENTER BENEFICIAL TO RESIDENTS —Erin Kutnick, San Juan Capistrano I was disappointed but hardly surprised to see a column from former Councilman Mark Nielsen criticizing the proposal for a new downtown shopping center in the last edition of The Dispatch (“Why Are We Considering Giving Up Our Identity?” May 9-22).

Mr. Nielsen began his political career fighting against the public high school attended by so many of our children, and he continues to oppose projects that our community not only wants but also needs.

I’ve been a resident of San Juan for 16 years and have learned to do my grocery shopping at the nicer stores in nearby cities. I don’t like the inconvenience or that my tax dollars go to another city, but our markets are outdated and do not offer the quality I want for my family.

Now, a nice retail plaza is proposed for the vacant parcel east of the Mission. Since I’ve been in town, the land was home to a family restaurant and a run-down motel—both now closed. It’s been empty for years. I was excited about a hotel going there, but apparently the developers weren’t interested in building a boutique hotel right on top of the freeway.

So if it’s not a hotel, then what? Goveia Commercial Real Estate proposes an attractive retail plaza and has worked with city leaders to ensure the architecture and layout fits the community character.

The impacts of this project will actually be much less than the hotel project that Mr. Nielsen approved while he was on the council. In an effort to deceive readers, he even listed “negative impacts” of the proposed development that are the same as in the project he approved.

I met with the developer—something Page 12

Residents remain divided about a plan to build a retail center across from Mission San Juan Capistrano.

While some have expressed concern about its impact on the city’s historical character, others welcome higher quality commercial stores and a market. Photo: Brian Park

Mr. Nielsen did not do before forming his opinion and sharing it with all of us—and I was impressed.

The interchange work and topography of the land makes it difficult to develop a completely “pedestrian-friendly” plaza, as Mr. Nielsen wants.

Think of the project as two separate developments: On the corner of Ortega and El Camino Real will be two buildings with historic architecture, a new restaurant and shops. Those two buildings together will be less square footage than Mission Promenade, the Starbucks plaza, directly across from the Mission.

Then, on the back of the property, more than 25 feet below the off-ramp, will sit the boutique market we all want and need and two more buildings—again, together smaller than Mission Promenade—that will have stores geared more toward residents.

We all know that San Juan Capistrano is special, but it is not truly a tourist town.

Shops that put all their eggs in the tourist basket to keep their doors open just don’t survive.

The proposed “Shops at Capistrano” would bring us the best of both worlds: pedestrian-oriented buildings closest to the Mission and resident-geared stores in the back. Added all together, the entire project is 35,000 square feet smaller than the hotel Mr. Nielsen approved.

That hotel also was 50 parking spaces short, which should have been a big problem to Mr. Nielsen. The new proposal has more parking than the city requires— parking we really need in downtown. A smaller development and more parking sounds good to me.

Mr. Nielsen wants us to believe that “there are other options” for this land, but he’s not the builder and he’s not in the real estate business. He’s more of a gambler when it comes to land planning. Remember the last bet he made? He led the effort to block In-N-Out from coming to town,

and in its place we got an auto parts store while Rancho Santa Margarita got a popular new In-N-Out. Let’s not make the same mistake again.

A THANK YOU NOTE —Jeanne Mahan, San Juan Capistrano Coming home on Wednesday afternoon, May 14, a resident of Seasons Senior Apartments fell while attempting to step up on the curb on Rancho Viejo Road at Paseo Espada.

In assisting him, we were so gratified by the number of drivers who slowed down.

Some even stopped and got out of their cars to ask if they could help.

We all have busy lives and Rancho Viejo is a very busy street, but these drivers saw that there was a problem and they stepped up to offer help.

Thanks to Rob from Emeritus and to the fire department and EMTs who responded so quickly.

FAREWELL TO FARM TO MARKET —Tracie LaMee, San Juan Capistrano I am so sad to hear of Farm to Market’s upcoming closing. The market will be missed, the people will be missed. It is truly a loss to our community. I wish everyone the best in your new chapter in life.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU 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

A NEW YOU Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life...

Stepping Out Stair Climbing with a View Photo: Andrea Swayne

Always take the stairs. This is an oft repeated bit of advice when discussing ways to incorporate bits of exercise into everyday life.

Most people hear this and think of it in terms such as: when faced with a choice between and elevator, escalator or stairs; take the stairs.

It makes sense. The human body’s main mode of locomotion is walking. Our bodies are built to do it with ease. Unless an incline, weights, long distance or speed is applied, simply walking—although an excellent way to stay fit—is not considered a “vigorous” form of physical activity. But, add stairs into the picture and it’s a whole new story.

According to an online Harvard Medical School health report, a Canadian research study found that between walking, lifting weights and climbing stairs, stair climbing was the most physically demanding. It is 50 percent more demanding than lifting weights or walking a steep incline and twice as strenuous as walking on a level surface.

The publication also cited a Harvard alumni study that showed, even at a slow pace, climbing stairs burns calories “two to three times faster than walking on the level.”

The study also showed the mortality rate of men who walk an average of eight flights of stairs per day is 33 percent lower than those who are sedentary. For those who walked 1.3 miles per day, the death rate was 22 percent

lower than the sedentary subjects.

Stair climbing machines have become a popular alternative for those who do not live or work in cities and are not faced with daily opportunities to forego a ride in the lift for an echoing stairwell.

Although both options get the job done, so to speak, neither are very fun or inspiring.

With so much natural beauty right in our own back yard, why not try “stepping up” your workout—outdoors in beautiful Dana Point.

The city offers four beautiful stairways, where the rewards for reaching the summits include breathtaking views of the Pacific, the Headlands and Dana Point Harbor.

Mix and match. Climb only to the first landing at first. Work your way up as your fitness level improves. Wherever you choose to take the stairs, the rewards to your wellbeing will benefit both mind and body.

Here is a short tour of four of the best places to climb while taking in awe inspiring views of Dana Point.

HERITAGE PARK The stairway at Heritage Park has 91 steps with a landing halfway up and two flat slightly inclined paths leading in either direction, should you feel like you’re done at that point. In fact, these paths stretch all the way to the top so you can elect to do stairs one way and paths the other.

Once at the top of the first staircase there is a series of three shorter 22- to 28-step

stairways each with a landing showcasing a higher and more picturesque vantage point of the Harbor than the one before.

The fifth and final set of steps, only 11 of them, lands you at the park’s highest Harbor overlook, a landing that has a compass rose built into the pavement so you can get your directional bearing while enjoying the beautiful view below.

If you prefer, you can start from the top, at El Camino Capistrano and Old Golden Lantern where park parking lot is located. But climbing first offers extra motivation, as each new view is like a prize for making it up each level.

The stairway begins across the street from the Harbor at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Golden Lantern, about a half a block west, just past Dana Marina Plaza.

LANTERN BAY PARK Also at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Golden Lantern, just across the street from the Harbor, one of the city’s most popular workout stairways leads up toward Lantern Bay Park and the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa. This climb is 118 steps to the top, with a landing about halfway up.

A paved path winds up and down here too, providing an alternative way to ascend or descend the incline.

Should you choose to start from the top; the park parking lot is accessed off of Dana Point Harbor Drive and Park Lantern, just before reaching the hotel.

STRAND VISTA PARK The main stairway at Strand Vista Park has 164 stairs with numerous landings and benches along the way. And from the very first step to the last, the view of the ocean, beach and headlands is breathtaking.

There are actually four alternate routes from Strand Vista Park down to the beach— two through the Strand at Headlands neighborhood, one zig-zagging trail known as the Switchback Trail and a funicular inclined elevator.

Flat, paved walking paths, at both the top and bottom, link the access ways, so walkers can make a loop.

The funicular provides a relaxing rest, should you need to take a breather on your way up or down.

HILLTOP PARK At the top of Cove Road, just across the street from the Chart House Restaurant on Green Lantern, is a 99-step stairway leading up to Hilltop Park.

These stairs are a trailhead, part of the system of nature trails atop the Headlands, surrounding the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center and Dana Point Preserve.

The trail at the top is a hard-packed dirt path, as are all of the Headlands trails and the view of the Harbor below is spectacular.

However you elect to add stair climbing to your exercise routine, you can’t go wrong, stepping out in Dana Point. —Andrea Swayne

A NEW YOU Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life...

The Spine: A Foundation for Health

By Burton Wagner, D.C., Spinal Vitality

Often we go through life looking for ways to be healthier, happier, calmer and to take our well-being to the next level. What can we do to get better? To be healthier?

With all of the possible choices given to us today, where should we begin?

A great place to start is with your foundation. And what is your foundation? Your spine—the vertebra and the spinal cord.

Let’s take a look at just what your spine does for you.

There are 24 interlocking bones called vertebra that allow your body, the trunk of your body as well as your arms and legs, to move where you want. Turning your head in the car, playing sports, bending over to pick something up, getting your groove on on the dance floor and reaching out to hold your loved

Burton Wagner, D.C., Spinal Vitality. Photo: Andrea Swayne

ones are all possible thanks to your spine.

Your spinal cord, the link between your brain and every tissue in your body, is protected by those bones. Your spinal cord is a communication highway between your brain and body, which allows and coordinates every one of your body’s functions. Thanks to your nervous system, you can sense the environment around you and then react to it. Maintaining your health and well being, your digestion starting after a meal, your heart beating faster when you get excited or start running, your muscles contracting

in a stressful situation and so many more everyday functions happen with ease thanks to your nervous system and its protector, the spine.

Research has shown emotions are not completely confined to the brain. The spine is also a modulator of emotion. We will react to situations based on our previous experiences and emotional interpretations of those experiences—such as a certain touch that brings a sensation of fear or joy, feeling angry or depressed when confronted in life or that feeling that comes when walking into

your childhood home. If you have a posture of anger, you will be hard pressed to experience joy, and vice versa. Since the highest concentration of emotional and sensory receptors are found in the spine, in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, we can modify how we react to a situation by creating physical changes in the spine.

Your spine is also a modulator of your sense of self. Who you think you are is in part based on the shape, tone and position of your spine. We often say “out of sight, out of mind” and where it applies is your spine. If your shoulders are slumped over and your head hangs low you won’t get hired as a confidence coach. Look at how your posture and outlook on life is similar to that of your parents and family. The longer this stays in place the more it will determine who you say you are and how you experience life.

By working on your foundation (your spine) through chiropractic care, you can modify the shape, tone and position of your spine which changes your sense of self, the types of emotions you experience and your reactions to life. It also brings positive change to the physiology and function of your body, allowing it to move more freely and with better health.

In changing your spine, you are on your way to a new you.

Spinal Vitality and The B.L.I.S.S. Program, 30320 Rancho Viejo Road, Ste. 102, San Juan Capistrano, 949.616.5470, www.spinalvitality.com.

A NEW YOU Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life...

Here is a collection of resources in the tri-city area, to assist you in your quest for better health.

Alice P. Moran, DMD Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD, is a board certified periodontist who provides comprehensive, leading-edge periodontal care to preserve your special smile. Dr. Moran’s capabilities include guided dental implant surgery, immediate implant placement, including “all on four” or “teeth in a day” and aesthetic gum enhancement including pinhole gum rejuvenation and treatment of gum disease. She belongs to an elite group of periodontists—only 15 percent nationwide—who offer the Periolase as an alternative to traditional osseous surgery. 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, San Clemente, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com.

Club Pilates SJC Your third eye, the space between your eyebrows called “yin tang,” has the ability to bring a great sense of calm and stress relief. The space between your thumb and pointer finger known as LI 4 has the ability to alleviate headaches, constipation and sinus congestion. Apply gentle direct pressure in these areas to stimulate their effectiveness.

—Emily Valenzuela, LAc, CCN A Point of Health, Inc., 224 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. C San Clemente, 949.310.4044, www.apointofhealth.com

Align Pilates

City of San Clemente Beaches, Parks & Recreation Department

The team at Align Pilates Center focuses on bringing the body, mind and spirit into balance through quality instruction. Pilates is a form of movement developed to simultaneously strengthen, stretch, tone and align the body. It concentrates on proper form, breath and the mind/body connection to create a fullbody workout that is both very versatile and highly affective.

Pilates is truly a unique form of exercise that improves one’s health and quality of life. 26850 Ortega Highway, Ste. K, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.3577, www.alignpilatescenter.com.

HEALTH HAPPENS in the City of San Clemente when you participate in summer recreation and enjoy the health benefits of city classes, camps and events. From toddlers to seniors, there is something for everyone from surfing to swimming, camps to adult leagues, as well as an abundance of amenities from beaches to pools, trails to parks. Select your summer adventure and make health happen in your life by registering online or visiting a center today! 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8264 and 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, 949.429.8797, www.facebook.com/ sanclementerecreation, www.san-clemente.org/recreation.

Club Pilates SJC offers fun, safe group Pilates apparatus classes in a beautiful studio overlooking the San Juan Hills.

Classes run daily, with over 70 weekly options for beginners, intermediate and advanced. Certified instructors modify for injuries, prenatal clients and other special populations while keeping each class unique and fresh. Use the classical Reformer, EXO chair, wall-mounted Springboard and other smaller props for an incredibly challenging and effective workout. Classes start as low as $10. 27184 Ortega Highway, Ste. 206, San Juan Capistrano, 949.257.2292, www.clubpilatesstudio.com/locations/sjc.

Curves Kick start your weight loss in just 30 minutes, with something NEW from Curves and Jillian Michaels. You are going to love the changes you see with Curves Fitness as a part of the Curves Complete Plan.

All you have to do is show up, give us 30 minutes, and then go love your life. Try it for a week FREE! Call or email to book your free, no obligation consultation.

101 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente, 949.366.3680, curvessc@sbcglobal.net , www.sanclementecurves.com.

A NEW YOU Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life...

Yoga Wednesday inside the Casa Romantica. Courtesy photo

Casa Romantica Presents:

Wellness Wednesdays

By Berenika Schmitz, executive director, Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens

The role of cultural centers goes hand in hand with the health of communities. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente provides creative intellectual programming for all ages that enhance people’s well-being. Casa Wellness Wednesdays focus on the important health aspects that we should not take for granted.

We are pleased to have a variety of programs that enhance our knowledge of how to be healthy in our daily lives. The Center also provides guided tours of the Casa’s native garden, Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Please join us for one, or many, of our upcoming wellness events.

CASA WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS SECOND WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH Casa Yoga 9 a.m.-10 a.m. Inspired by multiple yoga traditions as well as contemporary styles of yoga and movement modalities, this class offers a blend of various disciplines to create a unique, integrated practice customized to the level of practitioners that are present. Primary focus of the class will be placed on breath, body and movement awareness, self-discovery and community connection. This class is suitable for both first-time and seasoned yoga practitioners.

Cost is $10. Classes are scheduled for Sept.

10, Oct. 8, Nov. 5, Dec. 10. In 2015 classes will be held, Jan. 7, Feb. 11, March 11, April 8, May 6, June 10, July 8 and Aug. 5.

NOVEMBER 12 Holiday Wreath Making Noon. Master Gardener Jodie Cook leads a class on making holiday wreaths using succulents from the Casa Gardens.

MARCH 4, 2015 Cocina Casa Romantica: Taste the History of San Clemente 7 p.m. Chef Rene Fontes hosts a cooking demonstration on preparing healthy and delicious food based on area culture.

MAY 20, 2015 Memory: Where Did I Put My Keys? Tales from the Hippocampus for Anyone Over 30 7 p.m. Dr. Craig Stark, director of the Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, presents a talk on memory and aging.

JUNE 10, 2015 Fountain of Youth: Healthy Aging 7 p.m.

Zuzana Bic, Phd, MUDr., of UC Irvine speaks about nutrition, physical activity and stress management.

Admission to Wellness Wednesday events is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. For more information on the upcoming 2014/15 Casa Wellness Wednesdays programs, please call 949.498.2139, or visit www.casaromantica.org.

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is a nonprofit organization and the historic home of Ole Hanson, the founder of the city of San Clemente. Casa Romantica provides programs for all ages in arts, music, history, horticulture and literature and is a premier Southern California cultural center, located at 415 Avenida Granada in San Clemente.

A NEW YOU Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life...

Choosing the Right Gym

offer more amenities. In San Juan Capistrano, the “Active” level 24 Hour Fitness is smaller but has all the basic necessities: cardio and strength machines and free weights.

The highest membership levels offer clients to use any 24 Hour Fitness gym, making them all the more convenient.

THE BASICS AND BEYOND

South Orange County is home to several health clubs and fitness centers of varying sizes and types

Fitness 19 93A Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente, 949.369.1999, www.fitness19.com/centers/ san-clemente

By Brian Park When it comes to choosing a gym, one size does not fit all. While some people prefer the intimacy (and privacy) of smaller community gyms, others need access to a greater selection of equipment, amenities and trainers that is typical of larger gyms.

Others have more practical criteria: location (“Can I get a quick workout in during my lunch break?”) and price.

Fortunately, in south Orange County, there are several types of gyms that cater to all needs. From larger facilities where just about any type of exercise is possible to smaller health clubs that focus on the basics, health conscious individuals have their pick of places to get their blood flowing, muscles aching and hearts pumping.

Fitness Elite/Xtreme Fitness 638 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.6060, www.fitnesselite4women.com Rado’s Fitness 24470 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.488.7700, www.radofitness.com

Life Time Athletic

San Clemente Gym 123 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.1007, www.sanclementegym.net

24 Hour Fitness, San Clemente

Fitness 19

Xtreme Fitness

Rado’s Fitness

LifeSpa, a full-service salon and spa center, including hair, nail, massage, skin care and medi-spa services. At LifeCafe, clients can also fill up on tasty (and healthy) snacks and full meals.

The club can also be a place for families.

At Life Time’s Kids Academy, there’s a staff that’s solely dedicated to working with children, 3 months to 11 years old.

Kids aren’t just penned up in a colorful room with a few toys, though. At the Kids Academy, there are more than 65 classes offered weekly, including karate, yoga, music and even a Spanish immersion course.

Life Time Athletic is open seven days a week, from 4 a.m. to midnight.

gym can be hard enough for some, but what about finding the time to get in a complete workout?

24 Hour Fitness, the national chain of gyms, has made a name for itself because of its accessibility at all hours of the day.

Whether it’s before work, during a lunch break or right after clocking out, 24 Hour Fitness offers flexibility to people’s busy schedules. For night owls who would rather avoid the busy gym rush, 24 Hour Fitness is open for business.

The company’s newest location opened in San Clemente in late April. At 46,000 square feet, the gym features over 300 pieces of equipment, 30 classes a week and other amenities, like a heated indoor lap pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi.

“What makes us different is the convenience, for youth and adults,” said club manager Adrian Dixon, who said the gym is open all year, except Christmas.

The San Clemente location is a “SuperSport” level 24 Hour Fitness club—the second highest club type, after the “UltraSport” level, which are typically larger and

HIGH-END FITNESS Life Time Athletic 25600 Rancho Niguel Road, Laguna Niguel, 949.238.2700, www.lifetimefitness.com/ lagunaniguel This mega-fitness center has just about everything a person could ask for in a health club—and more.

Within this three-story, 128,000-squarefoot facility there are more than 300 pieces of exercise equipment and fitness machines, a three-story rock-climbing wall, two indoor full-size basketball courts, two group fitness studios, as well as studios for cycling, yoga and Pilates.

The club is the first to open in California for Minnesota-based Life Time Fitness and cost more than $50 million to build.

At Life Time, they emphasize that wellness and health are a way of life—the club is more country club than a typical gym.

Inside, a small army of certified personal trainers work with clients on a one-on-one basis or through 109 classes taught weekly, including eight signature courses. Nutrition coaches are also available to work with clients and put together personalized programs, based on Life Time’s myHealthScore program, which takes into account six factors: blood pressure, body fat percentage, tobacco use and glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol levels.

Rest and mental relaxation are also an important part of Life Time’s mission.

Their “resort-like” aquatic center features a 35,000-square-foot outdoor pool, a lap pool, whirl pools and splash pads. After a workout, clients can get pampered at

EXERCISING CONVENIENCE 24 Hour Fitness San Clemente: 110 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente, 949.245.0265 San Juan Capistrano: 27131 Calle Arroyo, Ste. 1701, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.9900 Finding the motivation to get to the

What community gyms lack in size, they make up for with camaraderie, knowledge and cost.

San Clemente Gym has been sculpting bodies and improving the health of San Clementeans for more than 30 years. What started as a fitness center started by two Austrian body builders has now become a family-owned and operated gym with a small but dedicated staff of trainers, many who were once clients themselves.

Rado’s Fitness in Dana Point was also founded by a body builder, world champion Rado Pagac.

Pagac and his certified staff, each with their own expertise, take the time to work with their clients and help them reach their fitness goals.

For south Orange County women who want to get healthy in a comfortable setting, Fitness Elite in San Clemente offers such a place. The facilities and group training found within this 22,000-square-foot club are what you would expect out of a high-class gym, but what makes Fitness Elite an ideal option for women is that trainers and nutrition coaches are specifically trained to help with their needs. Just next door, Xtreme Fitness, Fitness Elite’s co-ed gym, features top of the line equipment, a 30-bike spin room and hot yoga and Pilates studios.

At Fitness 19, although they’ve grown to become a national franchise, affordability remains their biggest draw and they haven’t lost the community feel.

Membership can range from $5 to $29 per month, depending on the types of services purchased.

At the San Clemente location, you’ll find all the different types of cardio equipment, as well as circuit training, free weights and strength training machines.

General Manager Alexander Marshall, a San Clemente resident, has fostered a community atmosphere at the gym and said he makes it a point to remember everyone by their first name, not just as a membership number.

A NEW YOU Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life...

Checklist: 15 Steps Toward a Healthier You

By Jake Gleason, MPT, OCS, Full Motion Physical Therapy

a balanced diet containing lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

You’ve made a decision to embark on a journey toward better health but where to begin?

Get into the habit of reading nutrition labels at the grocery store. Not all foods are created equal. Make a conscious decision to shop for natural foods and increase the variety of foods you consume. Most individuals have food habits that keep them in a rut.

Deviate from your regular diet and experience a new world of fruits, vegetables, herbs and lean protein.

You are probably thinking about how you can become healthier, be more pain free and move better than you do right now. The road to health can seem daunting. A simple systematic approach, such as a “to-do” list, may be just what you need to help you move forward with your goals.

Here is a checklist of 15 things to do to help you get started: A gradual, personalized exercise program that takes into account your anatomy and physiology is important. A physical therapist or other qualified medical professional can conduct an evaluation and assist with this.

Make yourself accountable to someone other than yourself. Log your exercises—either at home or at the gym—in a journal and inform your physical therapist or other medical professional about your progress.

Self-confidence is critical. Believe in yourself and your ability to become stronger, healthier and more functional. If you think you can, then you can.

Visualize yourself as being stronger, with

Jake Gleason, MPT, OCS, Full Motion Physical Therapy. Photo: Andrea Swayne

increased energy, as if you already achieved your goals. Positive expectations of health, vitality and energy are helpful to improve your health and well-being.

Never skip meals, especially breakfast.

It is the most important meal of the day, so start your day right with a healthy breakfast.

It will get your metabolism going and keep your appetite and blood sugar in check as the day progresses.

Find an exercise partner to help you stay consistent with your exercise regimen.

Drink plenty of water. Hydration is important for your blood, kidneys and joints.

Consistency is key. Exercise at least three to four times a week.

Always seek qualified help. Expert supervision provided by a physical therapist or other medical professional is important, especially if you are recovering from injuries or medical conditions.

Challenge yourself each week. Gradual progression is the only way to improve. Stay within the limits of pain. When in doubt, ask your physical therapist.

Be aware of what you eat. Fat has twice the caloric density of carbohydrates and protein. So limit your fat intake and consume

Make sure a five- to 10-minute warmup and a five- to 10-minute cool-down are part of your exercise routine. Don’t forget to include stretching in the warm-up and cool-

down to reduce the risk of injury.

Set specific goals for yourself—with the help of your physical therapist or other medical professional—and resolve to meet them.

Reward yourself for small victories; They are important milestones toward your larger goal. Positive reinforcement is the best way to stay on track and reach your health and wellness goals.

Many people think of physical therapy only after receiving orders from their doctor, following an injury. There are a few other smart reasons for consulting a physical therapist as you begin your quest for health.

If you are preparing to have surgery, getting some physical therapy ahead of time can make rehab a whole lot easier after your operation. In terms of developing exercise/ fitness programs, physical therapy can be a great place to start, especially if you have an old injury or surgery that you need to be mindful of. Physical therapists are also a valuable resource when it comes to picking a surgeon, personal trainer, yoga instructor or Pilates instructor.

Full Motion Physical Therapy, 31461 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.542.5000; 150 Avenida Cabrillo, Ste. B, San Clemente, 949.388.6552, www.fullmotionpt.net.

A NEW YOU Your Local Resource to a Healthier Life...

Here is a collection of resources in the tri-city area, to assist you in your quest for better health.

DP Pilates & Barre

Now celebrating its third year, Desa Prana, is expanding and changing its name to DP Pilates & Barre. Barre classes, the latest craze in mind-body fitness, are renowned for the results achieved in sculpting and toning the body. Using ballet principals to sculpt legs and thighs, Pilates methods to strengthen core and light weights to tone arms, Barre classes are undeniably effective in shaping, toning and tightening.

34700 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. 205, Capistrano Beach, 949.443.1700, www.desaprana.com.

Fitness 19 Fitness 19 was founded by industry veterans who believed that the traditional health club model wasn’t meeting the needs of most people.

They started Fitness 19 to give customers more of what they really want out of a fitness membership. The result is a simple fitness club concept—an extremely affordable, family-friendly facility that offers state-of-the-art cardio, strength and free weight equipment. 93A Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente, 949.366.1999, www.fitness19.com.

Chiropractic for back pain? That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Many pregnant women utilize chiropractic care for more comfortable pregnancies and births.

Often parents bring their newborns in to be evaluated after birth, especially traumatic births. Many parents seek—or are referred by their well-informed pediatrician, OBGYN or midwife—chiropractic care for complementary wellness care as their children grow, as well as for a drug-free approach to ear infections, asthma, growing pains, headaches, chronic illnesses, etc. —Jennifer James Padrta, D.C., A.C.N. Adjust Back To Health, Inc., 32382 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.9355, www.adjustbacktohealth.com

Hanson’s Market As San Clemente’s only natural and organic whole foods store proudly serving south Orange County, Hanson’s is dedicated to healthy lifestyles, carrying fresh and organic produce, grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, locally baked artisan breads, gluten-free everything, sushi, craft beer and wine, herbals, supplements, vitamins and eco-friendly household products.

Our deli is famous for its all-natural meats, artisan cheeses, vegan choices, fresh salads and raw juicing/smoothies. Hanson’s is open Monday through Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sundays 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. 415 Avenida Pico, Ste. P, San Clemente, 949.218.1690, www.hansons.com.

The Healing Tree The Healing Tree is an organic meditation and healing arts studio located in the beautiful beach city of San Clemente. At Healing Tree our intention is to create a place where you can feel safe to explore you, to rediscover you and to play with you. Come and take shelter under our tree and reconnect with your authentic self. NEW STUDENT SPECIAL: 33 days for $33. 1401 N. El Camino Real, Ste. 11, San Clemente, 949.212.3442, www.thehealingtreeoc.com.

It is very important to know that varicose veins—those bulging veins that you see on the surface across the legs and feet—are not just a cosmetic problem. They can be not only very painful, but life threatening. Your legs carry a network of veins. A healthy vein contains valves which open and close to assist the return of blood from the toes to the heart. Vein disease and varicose veins are caused by damaged or diseased valves which result in backward flow of blood in your legs. This condition is called venous reflux. Treatment takes about 15 minutes and is done without anesthesia and there is little to no pain.

–Dr. Anne Luhan, M.D., F.A.C.S. EliteMedizin, 34052 La Plaza, Ste. 102, Dana Point, 949.388.4800, www.elitemedizin.com

Smile Design Dental Group

White Lotus Day Spa

At Smile Design Dental Group we strive to provide the highest quality yet affordable cosmetic and family dentistry for South County residents of all ages. What sets us apart from others? We have gathered the best dental specialists in our comfortable office with state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technology in dentistry. Our doctors, hygienists and staff are highly trained in their respective dental fields. Please check out what our patients are saying about us on Google, Yelp and Angie’s list. 390 Camino De Estrella, San Clemente, 949.481.2000, www.smiledesigndentalgroup.com.

White Lotus Day Spa is an intimate space where you can rejuvenate and relax in a warm, tranquil environment. Serene inspired surroundings soothe the senses and provide for a truly comfortably experience. We customize over 30 types of natural chemical peels based on an individual’s needs. In addition to our outstanding skincare services we offer relaxing, hot stone, therapeutic and deep tissue massages as well as spray tans, eyelash extensions and eyelash tinting. 24582 Del Prado, Ste. F, Dana Point, 949.496.2977, www.whitelotusdayspa.com.

In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, Picket Fence Media 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 Picket Fence Media. Information included in this special section should not take the place of medical advice. Readers are encouraged to speak with a health care provider before beginning any new health or workout regimen.

SOAPBOX GUEST OPINION: By Mark Nielsen, former San Juan Capistrano City Councilman

Retaining San Juan Capistrano’s Character Our city has a unique brand, developed over centuries, that needs to be protected

A

s I look around town at commercial development projects recently approved or going through the approval process, I am struck by how momentum seems to be building to abandon our historic, small-village character in favor of being “business friendly.”

There’s the multi-story storage building right next to the freeway, an approved medical building by Marbella against the freeway with a 50-foot tower, the Trader Joe’s strip mall next to the Mission and the hotel project with 33 town homes on only 3 acres with inadequate parking next to Historic Town Center Park and the Egan House.

It is always a balancing act between strict adherence to planning guidelines and not strangling a sustainable business and retail community. However, the pendulum often swings too far one way or the other. I am afraid we may be in the midst of a swing too far away from our city’s motto, “Preserving the Past to Enhance the Future.”

As I mentioned last issue, San Juan Capistrano has a very unique brand that is unlike any other community in Orange County. Our historical, equestrian and small village-like character creates an oasis that steps one back in time, in the midst of the modern planned communities that surround us.

Our historic town center, with the Mission as its linchpin, is born of the 18th century and reflects a European flavor that attracts people from around the world. Enjoying an evening concert in the Mission courtyard or dining at one of the restaurants across from the Mission in an outdoor seating area transports one to a place more akin to a European village or 19th century ranch setting than the crowded metropolis of Southern California.

To trade this unique brand for a “metoo” retail setting that tries to compete with other similar retail projects in surrounding communities detracts from our uniqueness. The result is a loss of that which gives us a competitive advantage to attract visitors and residents alike to our town center.

In business, companies spend fortunes to protect their brand. We have a brand that is known worldwide and is the reason many of us moved here from bigger metropolitan areas or other “modern” California cities. Why would we be so quick to abandon this unique brand that literally took us centuries to develop?

Page 13

Business friendly does not mean giving in to anything a business wants. While I and others certainly want key businesses in our town, there are right and wrong places for them.

Instead, we should do as we originally intended with the Historic Master Plan—provide clear guidelines as to what development is acceptable and enhances our historic village character. Encourage businesses that follow those guidelines and remove barriers to efficient approvals (thus being business friendly). However, be just as quick to shut down a developer that is trying to detract from our vision and brand.

Just because one developer states a project that meets our vision “does not pencil out” is no reason to believe them or abandon Mark Nielsen our principles. There are many developers that will embrace projects that others avoid due to differing business models. Once vacant land is built out, we are stuck with it. Many times leaving land undeveloped results in a new project that meets our vision and guidelines. However, if we turn our back on those guidelines, we send the message to all developers that we are not serious about our vision. This only guarantees that no one will step up to deliver on our vision. All they must do is say they need something different and we will change our rules.

We do not need to approve some kind of development for all locations as soon as someone is willing to offer a project. If it takes years to get it right, so be it. The risk to our future is far greater if we lose our unique character and thereby forfeit the soul of what has brought residents and businesses here in the first place.

Mark Nielsen is a local business executive who served on the City Council from 2006 to 2010, including one year as mayor.

He is a member of the Open Space Foundation’s board of directors and has lived in San Juan Capistrano for 25 years. 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 Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

EDITOR’S PICK

What’s going on in and around town this week

Tuesday | 03

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 23 MELVIN SEALS AND THE JERRY GARCIA BAND 8 p.m. Jam rock band performs live at The Coach House. Tickets $20. Doors open at 6 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

Saturday | 24

Photo: Andrea Swayne

DANA POINT BOAT SHOW • MAY 29–JUNE 1 Noon-7 p.m. New and used, power and sail vessels will be on display both in and out of the water at the annual boat show at Dana Point Harbor. Various recreational watercraft and products will also be displayed. Show runs through Sunday. Admission is $9.

Children under 12 are free with an accompanying adult. OC Sailing & Events Center and Public Docks, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point, www.danaboatshow.com.

ARK OF SAN JUAN RESCUED PET ADOPTIONS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dogs and puppies available for adoption at Petco in the Vons plaza, 32391 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. Cats available from noon to 4 p.m. at PetSmart in the Costco plaza, 33963 Doheny Park Road, San Juan Capistrano.

949.388.0034, www.arkofsanjuan.org.

Tuesday | 27

Saturday | 31

KNITLIT BOOK CLUB 6 p.m. Bring your knitting project and join in on a lively discussion of the latest book.

KnitLit meets the last Tuesday of each month. San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

Sunday | 25

Thursday | 29

BIOLUMINESCENCE CRUISE 7 p.m.-10 p.m. The Ocean Institute’s nighttime Bioluminescence Cruise provides a unique opportunity to learn about and witness the remarkable ability of some marine animals to glow in the dark. $35 for adults, $22 for children ages 4 to 12. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

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. Offered Sundays.

Admission $6-$9. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Help clean and maintain Los Rios Park with fellow green thumbs. Bring gloves, clippers and an apron. Sign the volunteer form at www.goinnative.net.

HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. Join the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society for a 1.5-hour tour through town, including the Los Rios Historic District and the Egan House.

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

LIBRARY BOOKSTORE GRAND OPENING 1 p.m. The Friends of the Library unveil their new bookstore. San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.sjcfol.org.

Sunday | 01

Friday | 30 AN EVENING WITH STEPHEN STILLS 8 p.m. Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, known for his work with Crosby, Stills & Nash, performs at The Coach House. $50.50.

Doors open at 6 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

THE VILLAGE ART FAIRE 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Shop and stroll along Avenida Del Mar, in the heart of historic downtown San Clemente on the first Sunday of every month, where close to 70 gifted artisans sell their hand-crafted art and fine crafts. Explore a variety of exceptional work including fine art, photography, ceramics, wood work, botanicals, knits, jewelry, leather goods, metal work, organic textiles, natural body products, fused and blown glass and much more. 949.395.7008. www.villagesanclemente.org.

HOUSE OF DESIGN TOUR 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Interior designers will transform a 7,500-square-foot home into a Mediterranean masterpiece. Proceeds help fund music programs for youth through the Philharmonic Society of Orange County.

Tickets $40 to $50. Tour runs daily through Sunday, June 29. Closed Mondays. Designers will be available for meet and greets Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free parking at Strand Vista Park. Shuttle runs every 10 minutes. Selva Road at Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 714.840.7542, www.philharmonicsociety.org.

Wednesday | 04 DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from around 40 vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday. www.farmersmarketsjc.com.

Sunday | 08 WORLD OCEANS DAY 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Celebrate the ocean’s wide array of wonders and resources and consider ways to help with ocean conservation. Investigations include shells of the world and deep sea animals. $6.50 for adults, $4.50 for children. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

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

Have an event? Send your listing to events@ thecapistranodispatch.com

At the Movies: ‘Million Dollar Arm’ is a Hamm-y Attempt

S

ports-themed films often feature a protagonist coming to the realization that they need to get over their ego.

Most of the time it’s the athlete themselves. Sometimes it’s the coach.

In Jerry Maguire (1996), it’s the once successful sports agent, who needs one client to turn it all around. In Disney’s latest live-action flick, Million Dollar Arm, Jon Hamm plays a Maguire-like agent who needs to do the same.

Los Angeles sports agent J.B. Bernstein

The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

(Hamm) is down on his luck. It’s 2008 and all his big-time clients are retired. When the next rising football star passes him up for another agency, J.B. gets a burst of inspiration while watching cricket.

He comes up with a brainchild: to have teens throughout India try out and hopefully become the first to get signed to an American baseball team. Partner Ash Vasudevan (Aasif Mandvi) and sports scout Ray Poitevant (Alan Arkin) also sign on.

Suraj Sharma and Madhur Mittal play

the lucky kids who fly to the United States for tryouts. Lake Bell plays J.B.’s endearing neighbor. Million Dollar Arm isn’t technically a family story but the filmmakers had to work around a PG rating for Disney.

Arm takes narrative cues from Maguire and Moneyball (2011) for coach and rookie scenes, but the film remains pretty corny throughout. The film had potential to be a breakthrough for Hamm’s silver screen career, but he would have been better off with a more mature film. —Megan Bianco

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©Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Recalling Their Voices, Respecting Their Stories Traveling memorial walls provide visitors, veterans a chance to pay tribute to the nation’s fallen

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

P

fc. Jim Brunotte awakened one October day in 1968. He was at the 24th Evacuation Hospital in South Vietnam and entering his fi fth week in the county. Lt. Colleen O’Keef, an Army nurse, was at his side.

“Jim, you were in an explosion but you’ll be OK,” she said. Groggy and disoriented the young soldier replied, “Why can’t I talk right? Why can’t I see out of my right eye?” As Brunotte recalls, hundreds of questions rushed through his mind—what explosion was she talking about?

Brunotte came to Vietnam on Aug. 28, 1968, assigned to the 720th Military Police, Company B. He was stationed at an outpost near the village of An Xuan.

On Oct. 1, Brunotte and his friend from MP school, Pfc. Robert Alicea, were returning from a supply run. The pair had traveled to the town of Long Hung, south of Ho Chi Minh City. At 5:55 p.m., their jeep drove over a land mine. Pfc. Alicea was killed. Brunotte was seriously injured.

Lying in the hospital, Brunotte learned of his injuries. He had lost his right eye.

His nose was broken and jaw shattered, wired shut. Brunotte was breathing from a tracheotomy. The soldier had also broken his right arm, severely wounded his left and lost his legs below the knee.

Several days passed before he began asking for his friend. Brunotte didn’t recall the accident. He didn’t remember that Alicea was with him.

Sunday afternoon, as a traveling memorial to the servicemen and women who lost their lives in Vietnam was displayed at Sea Terrace Park, Brunotte shared his story— one of loss, healing and recovery. When the wall comes to the region, he’s sure to be there. The Vista resident has made certain his injuries have not defined him. And

“

When I see that wall, I don’t see a wall with etched names, I see faces.

”

—Tom McKeown

Retired Col. Tom McKeown shares stories of his men, Sgt. Peter Hedlund and Navy Corpsman Jerry Collier, who perished Feb. 7, 1968. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

Visitors make a rubbing of names displayed on a traveling Vietnam memorial wall that was on display at Sea Terrace Park last weekend. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

through his journey to find peace, he said helping others was his true therapy.

Brunotte volunteered last weekend as walls honoring the nation’s fallen came to Dana Point. Memorials represented each of America’s wars, dating back to the civil war and concluding with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, whose fallen were represented on golden dog tags.

As of 2012, more than 58,286 names were inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Last week, spread across the park’s lawn was a black wall, an 80 percent scale replica of the national memorial, with the names of those lost in Vietnam. Pfc. Robert Alicea’s name was on panel 42W, row 52.

“When I see that wall, I don’t see a wall with etched names, I see faces,” retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Tom McKeown told a crowd gathered for a remembrance ceremony Sunday afternoon. “If I listen hard enough, I hear stories of the extraordinary things that those people did.”

ORDINARY PEOPLE, EXTRAORDINARY THINGS As others did before him, McKeown shared stories of his service in Vietnam.

From ’67 to ’68, McKeown was a member of a Marine engineering team supporting army and air force units. His comrades called him Skipper.

“Some of my men are on that wall,” McKeown said pointing to the memorial.

“Panel number 37.”

Sgt. Peter Hedlund, known as Swede to his comrades, was an aspiring chef from Minnesota. He could make magic happen by creating meals where A, B and C rations were edible, McKeown recalled. Marines in the unit were even treated to pies, bread, sweet rolls and birthday cakes at the hand of McKeown, who was up daily at 3 a.m. to make sure his company never went hungry.

“Ordinary American, yes, doing extraordinary things, absolutely,” McKeown said.

Then there was U.S. Navy Corpsman Jerry Collier, aptly dubbed Doc by the troops. Collier was always in the field.

When asked by McKeown why he chose fieldwork, Doc responded, “Skipper, that’s where they get hurt.”

On Jan. 30, 1968, the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong launched one of the largest campaigns of the war—the Tet Offensive.

Overnight, communist forces attacked every major city in south Vietnam, McKeown and his company were with an infantry company outside Hue City.

Food and ammunition supplies began running short. Without an aerial option, a decision was made to send an armed team to retrieve supplies. Swede and Doc volunteered. A mile and a half outside their post, the convoy was attacked. Of the

Page 16

Memorials, on display at Sea Terrace Park from May 15 to 18, honor the nation’s fallen from the Civil War to those in Iraq and Afghanistan. Photo: Madison May

more than 100 men in the group, 20 were killed and 48 were wounded.

“When our rescue force fought their way in two hours later, we found Swede and Doc,” McKeown said.

Survivor accounts place Doc in a safe spot when he spotted Hedlund in need.

He had been thrown from his vehicle and was under enemy fire. When backup forces came in, Swede had been shot over 10 times, Doc was lying on top of him.

Bandages were still in his hand.

“Ordinary Americans, doing extraordinary things,” McKeown repeated. “We owe them a responsibility of honor, of respect, and mainly we owe them the responsibility to never, ever forget them.

They were the best we had.” CD Catherine Manso contributed to this report. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

To Marry or Not to Marry

Singles grapple with marriage versus living together

T

he 2000 census revealed that approximately 1.2 million people age 50 and older lived together without being married. In the 2010 census that number increased to 2.8 million.

Many older couples I meet tell me they don’t plan on getting married; leading to the question: Is tying the knot a thing of the past for older couples?

For many, yes. But not for all. On May 10, Dana Point residents Manny Jurado, 73, and his girlfriend, Rebecca Fischer, 55, boarded the historic ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 tall ship, Spirit of Dana

By Tom Blake Point, and headed out to sea to get married. Fifty-one guests and friends joined them.

Manny and Rebecca had their wedding reception at Tutor and Spunky’s, my Dana Point deli. A couple of weeks before, while planning the menu with them, I asked: “After cohabitating for eight years, why did you decide to get married?”

Manny, a volunteer with Dana Point Police Services, explained: “As a part of my police volunteer training, I had to spend time last fall at the Coroner’s office, better known as the morgue. I found out that authorities, in checking for a next of kin when someone dies, do not consider contacting a girlfriend or boyfriend—they aren’t even on the list. Authorities will track down a distant relative as far away as New York City, for example, but won’t consider notifying a domestic partner.”

Manny continued, “Rebecca is the most important person in my life. When I heard that she doesn’t count in the person being notified if I pass away, I felt terrible.”

In December, Manny’s daughter asked him what he was getting Rebecca for Christmas. He hadn’t decided. His birthday is on December 20 and Rebecca’s is on December 26 so it’s kind of a gift-giving dilemma with Christmas tossed right in between those dates.

His daughter said, “I know something

she wants.”

“What,” Manny asked.

“An engagement ring,” his daughter replied.

At midnight, on the cusp between December 25 and December 26, just seconds before her birthday, Manny proposed to Rebecca and presented the ring.

Manny met Rebecca eight years ago when she came into his bicycle shop in Hacienda Heights to buy her grandson a bike. Their first date was April 26, 2006.

Rebecca said, “Getting married will not change our emotional attachment to each other. It will just make some legal things easier.”

Manny and Rebecca said that getting married on the tall ship was a unique and enjoyable experience. They said the crew could not have been nicer and more accommodating.

The wedding reception was scheduled at the deli for 6 p.m. But, the seas got rough and a few guests were feeling queasy. So, after the ceremony, Manny and Rebecca decided to have the ship return to port sooner than planned.

When Manny called the deli at 4:15 p.m. to say they had returned to the Ocean Institute and asked if it would it be OK if guests came to the deli an hour and 20 minutes early, I about died. We had barely begun setting up for the reception.

But Rosa and Teresa, my employees of 26 years, got appetizers put together in a hurry and the beer and wine was ready to go. Somehow, we made it all happen.

One can’t help but wonder if the MannyRebecca story will inspire other older singles who have lived together for years but haven’t married to rethink their status. And to get married on the Spirit of Dana Point? Hmm. For more stories visit, www.findingloveafter60.com and to comment, email Tom at tompblake@gmail.com. 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 The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@the capistranodispatch.com

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Page 17

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

FOR SALE MATTRESS LIQUIDATION - ALL BRAND NEW All Factory Sealed. Queen Pillowtops start @ $150, King Pillowtops start @ $250. All made by Serta. 1st Come, 1st Served. San Clemente area.

949-842-9994 METAL BED FRAME Adjustable for all sizes. $30/obo. New condition. 949.533.9761

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

GARAGE SALES WATERFORD POINTE COMMUNITY-WIDE GARAGE SALE Saturday, May 31, 7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Enter off Golden Lantern between Silva and Stonehill

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!

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

E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@thecapistranodispatch.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY

SERVICES LOCAL HOUSEKEEPER OR OFFICE CLEANING Reliable, affordable, meticulous. Excellent references. 949-573-8733

SURF STUFF MENS SMALL WETSUIT Mens Rip Curl Wetsuit, short-arm, full suit. New condition. Size small $65. Call or text 949.533.9761.

LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

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

BANKING

Independence Bank

32291 Camino Capistrano, Suite A, 949.373.8963, www.independence-bank.net

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

Organics Out Back

949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com

ELECTRICIANS

Excel Electric

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

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

PHOTO & DIGITAL LAB

Excel Electric - CA #793860

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

32301 Camino Capistrano, 949.661.5668, www.sjcphotodigital. com

HOME ORGANIZATION

Karen Fischer, Professional Organizer, Get Organized and Move!

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JEWELER

Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design

32382 Del Obispo, Ste. C-3, 949.493.3632, www.abbysdesigns.com

MOLD REMOVAL

Jarvis Restoration

31942 Paseo Sagrado, 949.362.5388, www.jarvisrestoration.com

The Capistrano Dispatch May 23–June 5, 2014

PLUMBING

Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing. com

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Bryan Krueger Enterprises, Inc. 33208 Paseo De Cerveza, Ste. B, 949.212.0499

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools 32032 Del Obispo Street, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org Page 18

TILE & STONE INSTALLATION/ RESTORATION

Yorba Linda Tile & Marble, Inc.

714.757.3490, www.yorbalindatilemarble.com, CA License #789312

WATER DAMAGE

Jarvis Restoration

31942 Paseo Sagrado, 949.362.5388, www.jarvisrestoration.com

WOMEN’S CLOTHING & HANDBAG BOUTIQUE

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Warriors Pass the Test to San Juan’s Owen Taylor Advances Reach CIF Volleyball Finals to U.S. Open Sectional Qualifier

BY STEVE BREAZELE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

S

an Juan Capistrano native and current Sacramento State University junior Owen Taylor advanced to the sectional qualifying stage of the 2014 U.S. Open, the country’s most prestigious golf tournament and one of four major championships on the professional calendar.

While professionals are awarded spots in the field based on the official World Golf Rankings and past finishes at certain tournaments, any golfer carrying a recognized USGA Handicap Index at or below 1.4 can attempt to qualify for the tournament.

Taylor, a 2011 graduate of San Juan Hills High School, shot a 68 (-4) at Ft. Washington Golf and Country Club in Fresno, on May 5, earning him a spot in the top-5

I

nstead of worrying about the big stage they were going to compete on, the Saddleback Valley Christian boys volleyball team spent this week’s practice fine tuning the little things. The Warriors knew that Arrowhead Christian would present them with their biggest challenge to date in the CIF-SS Division 5 Championships and if they were to advance to a second straight division title game, their defense had to be precise.

The Warriors defense spent hours at practice focusing in on attackers shoulder angles and arm slots in order to give themselves time to set up, dig the ball and initiate the passing game.

The hours of refinement paid off and the defense passed the test on May 21, as the Warriors cruised to a three-set sweep over the visiting Eagles 25-18, 25-17, 25-15.

Saddleback Valley Christian will attempt to repeat as the Division 5 champions on May 24. They will play Garden Grove at 9 a.m. at Cerritos College.

The Warriors back row got a boost from the return of freshman defensive specialist Jacob Pelletier, who had been battling a serious liver virus, according to head coach Ryan Van Rensselaer. Pelletier had been out for three weeks but joined up with senior libero Brandon Green to spark Saddleback Valley Christian’s defensive efforts. Green and Pelletier each recorded eight digs in the game, negating the Eagles hard swinging outside hitters.

“This week we spent a lot more time on defense in practice. Our coaches were highlighting getting to a position faster so you have more time to relax and watch the hitter’s shoulder so you know where he’s going to hit,” Green said. “Even if it’s half of a second, that time to look and see where it’s going to hit helps a lot. I think defensively, we got up a lot more balls because of that, which gave us more time.”

With Green and Pelletier extending

and an automatic bid into the sectional qualifying stages. Taylor had three birdies and one bogey on the front nine and two birdies on the back nine to complete his round.

Taylor will travel to play the Ocean Course at Lake Merced Golf Club in Daly City, in the sectional qualifying stage on June 2. Sectional qualifiers consist of a 36hole tournament.

The U.S. Open will be held at Pinehurst No. 2, in North Carolina June 12-15. Pinehurst No. 2 was the site of the 1999 U.S. Open, which was won by the late Payne Stewart.

A record number of 10,127 entrants participated in the tournament’s qualifying stages across the country, up from last year’s total of 9,860. CD

Saddleback Valley Christian’s Noah Dyer led the boys volleyball team with 17 kills in a win over Arrowhead Christian in the CIF-SS Division 5 Championship semifinals. Photo: Steve Breazeale

plays, the Warriors offense was able to take control throughout the match.

In the second set, the Eagles ran out to an early 4-1 lead. The Warriors went on a 7-2 run to answer and take the lead 8-6, one they would not let go of. Freshman setter Jon Minsberg tallied three kills during the run.

Minsberg finished with 12 kills, 26 assists and four blocks. Sophomore setter and co-captain Noah Dyer led the team with 14 kills and had 17 assists. Senior cocaptain Torrey Karlsen had nine kills and seven digs.

Four of the Warriors starters are freshmen and sophomores, which makes them a young team heading into a championship match.

“We’re a lot younger now but I see the same drive (as last year). I think they can they handle the pressure. A lot of them have been in big games before with club teams but I think they’re up for the task,” Van Rensselaer said. CD

Combat Golf Tourney Set for June 2

The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group is hosting their annual Combat Golf Tournament at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Course on Monday, June 2. Registration for the event is still open.

Proceeds and funds raised during the day’s activities will go directly toward the Support Group’s efforts at assisting the adopted Marines regiment members and their families.

Cost to participate is $195 and includes a round of golf, lunch, dinner and prizes.

There will be on-course games, with certain holes featuring obstacle courses and “minefields.” Last year, golfers had to tee off wearing a flak jacket and a helmet at one hole. There will be raffle prizes, a wine putting contest, a helicopter ball drop and a silent auction. For more information or to register, visit www.danapoint5thmarines.com. CD The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

San Juan Hills High School alum Owen Taylor qualified for the 2014 U.S. Open Sectional Qualifying stage.

Photo: Bob Solorio/Sacramento State Athletics

Page 20

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Scoreboard

Soccer

San Clemente Elite Surf Team 1 claimed the Saddleback Valley Sports Center’s Indoor Soccer girls U12 championship on May 13. The team, which is made up of residents from San Clemente, Capistrano Beach, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, lost only one game out of seven in the regular season, putting them in the championship match. In the final, San Clemente Elite Surf 1 drew to a 7-7 tie after regulation but won in a shootout. The San Clemente Elite Surf 1 girls U12 team includes: Meagan Rowlett, Elle Peloso, Hadley Thorsell, Savannah Burns, Paige Campbell, Briana Mendoza, Charlotte Jones and Caroline Christl. The team is coached by Shawn Burns and Ben Viloria.

San Juan Hills senior shortstop Brook Miko went 3-3 with three RBIs in the Stallions first-ever CIF-SS playoff win on May 19. Photo: Frank Scotty

Seniors Ignite Stallions Softball in First Playoff Win

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

here’s not much that can get by the left side of the San Juan Hills softball infield, whether it’s at the plate or in the field. Senior shortstop Brook Miko and third baseman Sarah Ingegneri made that clear in the Stallions 7-1 win over visiting Northwood in the wild card round of the CIF-SS Division 2 Championships on May 19.

Miko went 3-3 at the plate and drove in three runs, including a bases clearing double in the seventh inning, and Ingegneri went 2-4 with two RBI to ensure the Stallions first-ever playoff appearance was a successful one.

Miko and Ingegneri also made crucial plays on defense. In the top of the first inning, Ingegneri made a running catch on a popped-up foul ball near the Stallions dugout and ended the inning after fielding a hard hit ground ball for an out. Northwood’s cleanup hitter Kristen Guaderrama hit a grounder in between the two senior infielders in the top of the fourth that looked like a sure hit, but Miko ranged to her right and came up with an accurate throw to get the out.

“They were my left side of the infield all last year as well. They’re just solid all the The Capistrano Dispatch May 23-June 5, 2014

The San Clemente Elite Surf Team 1. Courtesy photo

way around. They have great attitudes.

They’re a great pair over there,” San Juan Hills head coach Randall Holbrook said.

The defense helped solidify San Juan Hills (14-13, 4-4) freshman starting pitcher Allie Holbrook’s outing. Holbrook pitched a complete game four-hitter and allowed one unearned run in the win.

With the score at 1-1 in the bottom of the sixth inning, Stallions leadoff hitter Mackenzie Miller singled, stole second and advanced to third on a passed ball.

Sophomore Amanda Green drew a walk and Miko singled Miller home. Ingegneri grounded out one batter later but brought another run in to make it 3-1.

San Juan Hills erupted for four runs in the bottom of the seventh, highlighted by RBI singles from Miko and Ingegneri.

“It’s our first CIF appearance, it was brilliant. I’m very proud of the girls. They’ve stepped up and done it all year,” Holbrook said.

The Stallions traveled to play Moorpark, the No. 1 team out of the Marmonte League, in the second round on May 20 and lost, 12-1. The Stallions bats were held in check as they recorded only three hits in the loss. Miko went 1-2 at the plate and hit a solo home run to give the Stallions their only run. CD

Softball

The Capo Girls Softball 14U team. Courtesy photo

The Capo Girls Softball 14U All Star team kept up their winning ways with a first-place finish at the Rancho Roundup All Star Tournament on May 18. On May 3, the team also won the Braggers Tournament. The team won all four of their pool play games at the Rancho Roundup and defeated Mission Viejo 15-4 in the championship match. The recent tournament wins come on the heels of an undefeated season for the local team. The Capo Girls 14U team, which draws players from San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, went 23-0 in the regular season. The team is attempting to qualify and compete in the Softball ‘C’ State Championship tournament in July. The team includes: Nicole Arico, Mariah Bohl, Grace Collier, Riley Dungan, Elibeth Flores, Angelica Gonzalez, Taylor Hopper, Kyra Massucco, Catherine Norby, Alyssa Peterson, Alyson Salas, Regan Salas, Claire Steines, Caitlyn Sung, and Alexis White.

WE WANT TO RUN YOUR SCORES, RESULTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS IN “SCOREBOARD.” E-mail sports@thecapistranodispatch.com or drop off the information to us at 34932 Calle del Sol, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 by each Monday at 5 p.m.

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