July 25, 2014

WALL OF RECOGNITION HONOREES OFFICIALLY ENSHRINED

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 4

FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

JULY 25-AUGUST 7, 2014 • VOLUME 12, ISSUE 14

Sparing the Horse Rehabilitated horses get a new life helping therapy patients E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6

Ortega Equestrian Center owner Kathy Holman has started a new program, Otra Mas, that aims to rescue and rehabilitate aging horses and train them as therpeutic horses. Photo: Brian Park

Ten Pull Papers for City Council Race, Planning Commission Reviews Senior Community EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

Rancho Mission Viejo Matriarch Alice O’Neill Avery Passes Away SOAPBOX/PAGE 5

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Old Majors Field: San Juan’s Own Field of Dreams SPORTS/PAGE 18

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EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week 10 Residents Pull Nomination Papers for City Council THE LATEST: Ten potential candidates have emerged in the early going in the race for three seats on the San Juan Capistrano City Council in the November 4 election.

All three incumbents—Councilmen Larry Kramer, Derek Reeve and John Taylor—have pulled nomination papers.

As of Wednesday, July 23, only two residents have filed nomination papers with the required 20 signatures: Stephanie Frisch, a former Chamber of Commerce executive and business owner, and Jan Siegel, a Cultural Heritage Commissioner.

Two former candidates have also pulled papers, Kim McCarthy and Jim Schneider.

McCarthy, who is on the editorial board for the local watchdog newspaper Community Common Sense, finished third in the 2012 election, behind Councilman Roy Byrnes and Mayor Sam Allevato.

In the 2010 election, Schneider finished last in a field of nine.

Former Planning Commissioner Rob Williams also pulled papers. He pulled papers for the 2012 election but did not file them by the deadline.

The newcomers are Greg Acho, owner of a digital marketing business and Chamber of Commerce ambassador, and Kerry Ferguson, a former school teacher and owner of a tutoring business.

WHAT’S NEXT: Candidates have until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 8 to file papers.

The deadline may be extended to Aug. 13 if an incumbent does not file.

FINE OUT MORE: For more election information, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org or www.ocvote.com. – Brian Park

Planning Commission Reviews Proposed Senior Community THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission got their first look at a plan to build a 418-unit retirement community on the current distribution site of Armstrong Garden Center Tuesday.

Spieker Senior Development is proThe Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

Edison Eyes September for SONGS Decommissioning Report

posing to build the community, which includes a health care center and memorysupport facility, on a 35-acre site, located at 32382 Del Obispo Street.

Supporters of the project came dressed in blue shirts that read “I Heart SJC.” Those who spoke expressed interest in potentially living at Laguna Glen.

Troy Bourne, partner at Spieker, noted that under state law, potential senior living communities are required to assess demand for their projects by providing information and establishing a wait list.

Opponents criticized the density of the project and some noted that the community would put increased strain on the city’s infrastructure.

WHAT’S NEXT: With Commissioners Sheldon Cohen and Ian Gardiner absent from the meeting and Commissioner Evan Chaffee having to recuse himself because of his residence nearby, Commissioners Nunn and Tim Neely postponed forming an ad-hoc committee, that would work with the developer on architectural design, to Monday, July 28.– BP

Delayed Decision Leaves Local Market on the Brink of Closing THE LATEST: A Mexican market in San Juan Capistrano may have to close its doors after the Planning Commission postponed consideration of a potential solution to the store’s parking woes because the five-member body lacked a quorum.

The commission on Tuesday was scheduled to consider Mercado El Rey’s request to establish a shared parking plan.

But Commissioners Sheldon Cohen and Ian Gardiner were absent from the meeting, and Commissioner Roy Nunn had to recuse himself because of his business relationship with Dan Friess.

Friess, owner of Friess Property Investments, has a building and several tenants near the market. He successfully sued to have the City Council’s 2011 approval of the market overturned because it did not have sufficient parking, which he said adversely affected his and nearby businesses.

WHAT’S NEXT: Commissioners Tim Neely and Evan Chaffee continued the hearing to Monday, July 28.

The market is under a court-ordered injunction to close the business by Aug. 1 if the commission does not take action before the deadline.

Dan Malcom, who owns the building, said the continuation felt “a bit prejudicial,” since the market’s owners, as well as a crowd of employees and patrons, had come to the meeting in support.

Malcolm said he would be out of the

Travel agent and tour manager Ann Ronan was installed as the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce’s board chair for 2014-2015. Photo: Brian Park

country and would not be able to attend the rescheduled meeting, but he and the commission agreed that he would be allowed to send a 15-minute video testimony.

– BP

Chamber Installs New Board, Honors Residents and Businesses THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano’s business community and city leaders gathered at El Adobe de Capistrano Restaurant on Thursday, July 10 to install the Chamber of Commerce’s new leadership board and celebrate outstanding members of the community.

Travel agent and tour manager Ann Ronan was named the chamber’s new board chair, taking over for Carolyn Franks, owner of Zoomars Petting Zoo. The chamber’s new board consists of Franks, chairman elect Larry Thomas from Independence Bank, John Gillotti from Mission Grill, Jim Carter from American Horse Products, Ann Dahlem from St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, Joshua Jacobsen from Computer Tech Express, Lorinda Sloss from Sloss Insurance Services and Debra Wells from The Capistrano Dispatch.

This year, the chamber named two businesses for its Business of the Year Award: Mission Grill and Fluidmaster.

Dick Paulsen, vice president of the Open Space Foundation, was named Man of the Year. Gwen Vermeulen, who has been the secretary for the Historical Society for nearly 40 years and whose family has a long farming history in San Juan Capistrano, was named Woman of the Year.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information, visit www.sanjuanchamber.com. – BP

Page 3

THE LATEST: Since Southern California Edison announced it would cease operations of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station in June 2013, one thing has stayed certain: the twin domes between San Clemente and Oceanside would remain an Interstate 5 fixture for years to come.

Questions too still linger, such as what will the decommissioning process look like, how much money will ratepayers be on the hook for and how safe is the current storage of spent, or used, nuclear fuel.

Local leaders and stakeholders from across Orange and San Diego counties, who have been brought together by Edison, the majority owner and operator of the plant, are now grappling with those questions.

Through a series of public meetings and workshops, the community engagement panel has hosted nuclear energy experts, from operators to manufacturers and officials from the federal government’s nuclear oversight body, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, attempting to put the pieces together.

At a workshop Thursday, July 17, panelists and community members heard from Bruce Watson, the NRC’s chief of reactor decommissioning. While Watson was able to provide insight into the general decommissioning process, the exact specifics of San Onofre’s ultimate mothballing is uncertain.

Without Edison’s submittal of its postshutdown decommissioning activities report (PSDAR), the timeline, cost and environmental impact are still unknown.

But Edison has plans to make these items a little clearer in the coming months.

The utility could submit its PSDAR by September, according to Tom Palmisano, the chief nuclear officer at SONGS, nearly nine months before the NRC requires it.

WHATS’ NEXT: The panel will host a public meeting on the PSDAR and decommissioning cost estimate on Thursday, Aug. 14. The meeting will be held at the Quantum Learning Center, located at 1938 Avenida del Oro in Oceanside, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. – Andrea Papagianis

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

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY BRIAN PARK

San Juan Police to Host Night Against Crime Residents and business owners are invited to learn more about crime prevention during San Juan Capistrano Police Services’ third Night Against Crime event on Monday, August 4, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Historic Town Center Park.

The event is part of the National Association of Town Watch’s 31st annual National Night Out program, which aims to educate and empower citizens and businesses by increasing crime prevention awareness, building neighborhood spirit and fostering better partnerships between police and the community.

Law enforcement officials will be on hand to answer questions, interact with citizens and generate support and participation in local anti-crime programs.

Historic Town Center Park is located at 31852 El Camino Real.

For more information, contact Crime Prevention Specialist Celina Corley at 949.443.6370.

Charity Basketball Tourney Supports Kids’ Fight Against Cancer The Jessie Rees Foundation is hosting its second annual Shoot For a Cause charity basketball tournament on Saturday, August 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the San Juan Hills High School gymnasium.

Teams of three will compete in a friendly tournament for prizes. The event also includes food, prizes and a raffle.

Registration costs $25 per player.

The foundation was formed in 2012 by the family of 12-year-old Jessie Rees, who died of a brain tumor. During her fight, Jessie sought to empower other children fighting cancer, using the motto “Never Ever Give Up,” or NEGU, which the foundation has since taken up. NEGU spokeswoman and Olympic gold medalist swimmer Kaitlin Sandeno will be in attendance.

For more information or to register and donate to the cause, visit www.shootforacause.net.

CUSD Students Accept Appointments to Military Service Academies Nine Capistrano Unified School District graduates have accepted appointments to one of four United States Service Academies and were honored by the school board on Wednesday, June 25.

From San Juan Hills, Jessica Boerner will be attending the United States Military Academy at West Point. From The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

Capistrano Valley, Andrew Carroll and Chadney Hill will be attending the Air Force Academy and Austin Earnest will be attending the Merchant Marine Academy.

From Aliso Niguel, Kaitlin Pang and Christina Santala will be attending the Air Force Academy and Arthur “Evan” Riddle will be attending the Merchant Marine Academy.

Connor Panick from Tesoro and Dylan Struthers from San Clemente will both be attending the Naval Academy.

Each cadet will receive a full scholarship, including tuition, books, housing, meals and a monthly stipend. Upon graduation, they each receive a commission as an officer in their respective branch of military service.

Vermeulen has been the secretary for the Historical Society for nearly 40 years and volunteers at Mission Basilica Church every Monday to count collected donations from Sunday Mass.

Both Paulsen and Vermeulen were also named Man and Woman of the Year during the Chamber of Commerce’s installation dinner and awards banquet on Thursday, July 10.

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

News Next Door

Community Meetings SATURDAY 7.26

Multicultural Art Series Concert

6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Celtic Spring, runner-ups in the first season of “America’s Got Talent” return to the San Juan Capistrano Library to showcase their dancing and fiddling. $20 for adults, $5 for kids 12 and under. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. www.musicatthelibrary.com.

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

WEDNESDAY 7.30

DANA POINT

Capistrano Unified Trustee Jim Reardon (left) and his fellow trustees recognized San Juan Hills High School graduate Jessica Boerner, who will be attending the United States Military Academy. She is one of eight CUSD students who have accepted appointments to United States Service Academies. Courtesy of the Capistrano Unified School District

Wall of Recognition Honorees Officially Enshrined For their commitment and volunteer work to make San Juan Capistrano a better place a live and work, five residents had their names officially added to the city’s Wall of Recognition.

Laura Freese, Shirley and Wayne Howard, Dick Paulsen and Gwen Vermeulen were honored during a special ceremony at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center on Thursday, July 17.

Freese is a former San Juan Capistrano city councilwoman who has remained a vocal advocate for businesses, especially with the ongoing construction of the Interstate 5/Ortega Highway interchange project.

Shirley Howard is a member of the Mission’s Woman’s Guild, the Woman’s Club of San Juan Capistrano and the Historical Society. Wayne Howard, a U.S. Navy veteran, is a member of the American Legion Post 721, the Historical Society and has served with the Associated Senior Action Program, a group of senior volunteers who support the city’s Police Services.

The Howards are active members of the San Juan Senior Club and have helped feed the city’s seniors.

Paulsen is vice president of the Open Space Foundation, which has built and funded several of the city’s newest parks, including the Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park and the Reata Park and Event Center.

Page 4

After more than four hours of debate, the Planning Commission continued a discussion regarding a three-phase, four-story project in downtown Dana Point.

Residents got a glimpse of the proposal over a course of three days as cranes displayed projected building heights. The project would build up seven non-contiguous plots on either side of Amber Lantern between Del Prado Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway. Two levels of subterranean parking would be accompanied by 111 residential units and 28,000 square feet of retail.

The developer, Majestic Housing & Development LLC, has asked for a variance to city regulations to allow for four-story structures, roof decks and a parking modification for 56 spaces.

Commissioner Gary Newkirk indicated a strong reluctance in providing the developer exceptions to the Town Center/Lantern District development plan at its first go-round, saying it would make an “irrevocable” shift in the implementation of the project.

SAN CLEMENTE Following more than two hours of debate and public testimony on a potential view protection and tree removal policy, the San Clemente Planning Commission opted for the development of a comprehensive tree ordinance and then removal policy in conjunction with a larger effort.

The commission voted 5-1, with one member abstaining.

The City Council had asked three city bodies—the Planning Commission, Beaches, Parks and Recreation Commission and Golf Course Committee—to examine a policy that would allow residents to pay for the removal and replacement of trees on public land that block residential views.

The beaches commission voted earlier this month to discuss the proposal further and to develop the proposal with a subcommittee.

In addition, the Planning Commission voted to have city staff examine complaints of Broadmoor tract residents and those near the city’s reservoir who had lost their views of the ocean in terms of safety using existing city policy.

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.

Low-cost Pet Vaccinations

5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. The city of San Juan Capistrano is hosting a low-cost vaccination clinic for cats and dogs in the back parking lot of City Hall. Payments should be in cash. Dogs must be on leashes and cats in carriers. 32400 Paseo Adelanto. For more information, including a full list of vaccine options, call the city at 949.234.4565 or visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY 8.1

Coffee Chat

8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday.

All are welcome. Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano. www.facebook.com/sjccoffeechat.

TUESDAY 8.5

City Council, Housing Authority and Successor Agency Meeting 6 p.m. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY 8.6

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. Rotary Scout Hut, 31372 La Matanza Street. www.sjcrotary.org.

FRIDAY 8.8

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Alice O’Neill Avery, Rancho Mission Viejo Matriarch, Dies at 97 A sixth generation Californian, Avery’s family ties are deeply rooted in L.A. and Orange counties’ histories

BY BRIAN PARK, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

lice O’Neill Avery, matriarch of the Rancho Mission Viejo family and a sixth generation Californian, died on Tuesday, July 22 at her home in Brentwood. She was 97.

Avery died of natural causes, said her son Tony Moiso, president and CEO of Rancho Mission Viejo.

Avery was born in Los Angeles to Richard O’Neill Jr. and Marguerite “Daisy” Moore. Her grandfather, Richard O’Neill Sr., was a cattle man who partnered with fellow Irish immigrant James Flood in 1882 to own and operate one of California’s largest ranches, the 230,000-acre Rancho Santa Margarita y Las Flores.

Avery spent much of her childhood at the ranch. In 1939, her father took control of the northern portion of the land in south Orange County, while the Floods controlled parcels in San Diego. Three years later, the U.S. Navy took possession of the San Diego parcels to establish Camp Pendleton.

Avery also owned strong historic ties to Los Angeles County.

Her great-great grandfather, Joe Loreto Sepulveda, was the second alcalde, or mayor under Spanish rule, of Los Angeles.

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY SEAN ROBB

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.

Monday, July 21 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-UNKNOWN INJURIES Stonehill Drive/Camino Capistrano (11:57 p.m.) One of the drivers in a collision was a pregnant woman. Two flatbed trucks were required.

WELFARE CHECK Via Alicia, 32000 Block (9:10 p.m.)

A caller said their male roommate was asleep but could not be woken up. Another roommate said he was OK. DISTURBANCE Calle Ricardo, 25900 Block (7:18 p.m.)

A caller was in an argument with a woman at a rehabilitation home. The caller reported that the woman was the manager of the home.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August7, 2014

She was also a member of the First Century Families, descendants of the region between 1781 and 1881. Last November, when the families gathered in Los Angeles for their annual luncheon, Avery was an honored guest as the last living person to have attended the very first party in 1938.

She took great pride in her California heritage and loved state history, Moiso said.

“She loved the fact that we still had cattle and brandings. She relished the rodeo,” said Moiso, who recalled their trips to Memorial Coliseum to watch the annual Los Angeles County Sheriffs’ Rodeo.

“In 1948, she took me to San Francisco for the first time,” Moiso said. “Driving up the Santa Ynez Valley, she pointed out the oak trees and cattle and said, ‘This is what it’s all about.’”

Avery graduated from Marymount High School, an all-girls Catholic school in Bel Air, and at the time of her passing, she was the school’s oldest living graduate. She went on to attend Immaculate Heart College, a private Catholic college that closed in 1981.

Moiso said his mother was a devout Catholic whose dedication to her faith “was an inspiration for me.”

Rev. Msgr. Arthur Holquin, former pastor and rector at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, met Avery later in her life.

“But it was very clear she was a woman of interior strength,” Holquin said. “She was a gracious woman. We’re talking about an individual who in many respects held so much of the history of Orange County. Her ancestors were the great pioneers of this portion of our country. We only have to look around to realize we’ve witnessed the passing of history here in the person of Alice Avery O’Neill.”

Avery was also committed to several charitable causes. In addition to contributing to Marymount School, she was an active supporter of Maryvale, a Catholicrun orphanage in Los Angeles and several local efforts, including the San Juan Capistrano and Camp Pendleton historical societies and the Mission Preservation Foundation.

“She used to take us to the back of the church and show us the poor box,” Moiso said. “She would tell me we were pretty darn blessed, we’ve got to help the ones less fortunate than we are.”

Avery is survived by her three sons, Anthony “Tony” Richard Moiso, James Jerome Moiso and Douglas Waldo Avery;

Sunday, July 20

TRAFFIC HAZARD Village Road/Aspen Way (5:30 p.m.)

Authorities were alerted to a large hole in the road.

DISTURBANCE Paseo San Gabriel/Avenida De La Vista (10:12 p.m.) A group of men and women were walking up and down the street, laughing very loudly. The caller thought the women may be drunk and one of them lived nearby.

Friday, July 18 SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Ortega Highway/5 Freeway (12:11 p.m.)

A woman in a black sedan, which appeared to be a new Jaguar or BMW, had her hand up in the air and was asking for help.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Perfecto, 32800 Block (11:01 a.m.)

A patrol car was sent for a man wearing all-black clothing who arrived at the warehouses on a black bike.

Thursday, July 17 FIREWORK VIOLATION Avenida Pedrigal/Del Obispo Street (8:44 p.m.) A caller reported that fireworks were being set off and they could also hear a party near where the fireworks were coming from.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Aeropuerto 26100 Block (5:22 p.m.) Two men were in a verbal argument inside Enterprise Rental.

eight grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

A funeral Mass is planned at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Brentwood in September.

In lieu of flowers, Avery’s family encourages contributions be made to St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 11967 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, or The Heart of Jesus Retreat Center, 2927 South Greenville, Santa Ana. CD

AnyTime Fitness was possibly a convicted felon.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Avenida Olivera/Avenida Romero (6:42 a.m.) Two subjects were sleeping in a grey Toyota with paper plates.

Tuesday, July 15

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Del Obispo Street/Camino Del Avion (11:57 a.m.) A caller reported a loud noise coming from the church or garden center. The caller believed it sounded like someone talking over a PA system.

DISTURBANCE Via Madonna/Via Del Cerro (11:26 p.m.)

A caller reported loud subjects playing in the park and skateboarders in the area setting off car alarms.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Paseo De La Paz/Del Obispo Street (12:22 p.m.) A man was in a car with unknown plates smoking marijuana.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE San Juan Creek Road, 28000 Block (10:44 p.m.) Authorities were alerted to a group of subjects running toward the school and loud banging noises.

Wednesday, July 16 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Buccaneer Court/Mariner Drive (11:56 p.m.) A caller reported a loud party at a house where the home owners were not home and their kids were throwing a party.

CITIZEN ASSIST Rancho Viejo Road, 31100 Block (6:28 p.m.) A caller reported a gym member at Page 5

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Cabrillo, 25800 Block (8:14 p.m.)

A woman on a bike was going up and down the street looking in the trash.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano/La Zanja Street (4:28 p.m.) A group of juveniles were sitting on a retaining wall throwing rocks at passing trains.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Sparing the Horse Rehabilitated horses get a new life helping therapy patients

BY BRIAN PARK, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

n a previous life, she was a champion.

Demi racked up win after win while competing in the working cow horse circuit. With a rider coaxing her every move, the tall strawberry roan delighted crowds and drew high scores from judges for her ability to reign in cattle using swift twists, turns and cuts.

But then came the arthritis, a common and extremely painful ordeal for many aging horses. Equine doctors later discovered that Demi’s condition had worsened.

The cartilage in her left ankle, just above the hoof, had deteriorated, leaving only bone on bone.

For many horses, such a prognosis would mean sale at an auction, abandonment or euthanasia. Few owners are willing to spend the exorbitant cost to keep a horse that is unable to move or bare the weight of a rider.

But consider Demi one lucky horse.

Thanks to Otra Mas, a new volunteer organization in San Juan Capistrano, aging performance horses in need of rehabilitation—like 24-year-old Demi— are being given a new lease on life and a renewed purpose as therapy horses for adults and children in equine-assisted psychotherapy, or EAP. In Spanish, Otra Mas means “another one” or “one more.” Kathy Holman, the organization’s president and owner of Ortega Equestrian Center, has always welcomed horses that others have deemed “broken,” either because they are too difficult to work with or have passed their physical prime.

“I’ve always taken in horses and tried to fix them,” Holman said. “I get at least one call a week. I have three horses right now, waiting, that they’d like to have me take in and use.”

Younger horses with fewer physical challenges are able to be trained and ridden in Holman’s lesson programs, separate from Otra Mas. Older horses, around 20 years and up, however, pose additional challenges. They often come with serious ailments that require expensive treatments. Some may also carry emotional scars because they have been trained to serve a purpose since they were born and have developed deep social connections to humans and other horses.

“These are horses that have been imprinted since they were babies. They’re used to having daily contact with humans,” Holman said. “Some of them, especially our Arabs and good show horses, if you throw them away or throw them in the stall dirty, they get embarrassed.

They wonder, ‘What did I do wrong?’

They’ll go stand in the back corner and they’ll be humiliated and not eat.”

Bethany’s Gait, a nonprofit horse

The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

Kathy Holman, president of Otra Mas and owner of Ortega Equestrian Center, places a bridle over Chips, a 9-year-old pinto pony. Photo: Brian Park

“

Demi, a 24-year-old strawberry roan, underwent a fourhour procedure to heal severe bone-on-bonearthritis.

After nine more months of recovery, Demi will be trained to be used as a therapy horse with Otra Mas, a new horse rescue program. Photo: Brian Park

rescue organization, use to operate out of Holman’s stables and was able to take on such horses. But after the group relocated to Arizona last November, Holman realized there was a void that needed to be filled. Horses are living much longer lives, Holman said, and there needed to be a program to address that, especially locally, in a city that claims the title of the “Equestrian Capital of the West Coast.”

“Twenty used to be very old, but now we take such good care of them, they live into their 30s,” Holman said. “Most people don’t want to keep their horses

Horses are very inclusive.

They tend to dial in emotionally with people … What happens is if the person is grounded, present and open, the horse will bond with that person and in that bonding, there’s a meta physiological relation that happens with the two.

”

—Carol Caddes

if they can’t ride them and go on trail rides, so they’re looking for a place to retire their horse that’s affordable. That’s why they want us because it doesn’t cost anything.”

Retiring a horse at a stable, including all the necessary care, costs around $500 a month or higher. Although they are still awaiting federal approval from the Internal Revenue Service, Otra Mas is a California nonprofit and has been able to house six horses in the program. Ortega Equestrian Center is able to house 130 horses total, according to Holman.

Page 6

When Otra Mas received Demi, she required an operation that cost between $7,000 and $8,000. While the organization raised money to pay for her medications, local veterinarian Mark Secor from Mission Equine Hospital offered to conduct the procedure.

“Her condition progressed over a sixmonth period. She was spending a lot of time lying down. When she did get up, she’d have to rock all the way on her back legs so she didn’t have to carry so much weight,” Secor said. “The surgery took us four hours from start to finish. We put a bone plate into the front of the joint and two screws across to bring it together.

Once the joint is fused, there should be a lot less pain.”

Although Demi’s prognosis isn’t “perfect,” Secor said she has responded well and should see gradual improvement in the next nine months. Otra Mas’ other horses include 30-year-old Colonel, a black quarter horse that spent years herding cattle in Texas and Nevada. Madonna, a 20-year-old chestnut mare, competed in several rodeos and worked as a cow horse but came with some foot problems.

Once the horses are completely healed, Holman and her staff will train them to become therapy animals. San Juan Capistrano resident Carol Caddes, a family therapist with a private practice in Newport Beach, is working with Holman to help supervise the staff in conducting EAP sessions.

Patients’ needs can vary, from children and adults going through difficult emotional periods to those recovering from injuries. Although there is no actual horse riding, Caddes said there are real benefits with routine exercises, like walking beside horses, leading them around a pen or simply petting and brushing them.

“Horses are very inclusive. They tend to dial in emotionally with people,” Caddes said. “What happens is if the person is grounded, present and open, the horse will bond with that person and in that bonding, there’s a meta-physiological relation that happens with the two.

“This is not riding. This is about awareness. Anytime you increase your awareness, then you’re able to let go of things from the past, be more present and work through things.”

But the therapy sessions don’t just benefit human patients, Secor noted.

“Kathy stepped in at a great time and is allowing some of these horses to be used in therapy, instead of having to be euthanized or sent to auction,” Secor said.

“There’s a saying … ‘The outside of the horse is good for the inside of the man.’

Whether you’re riding a horse or not, it’s good for people. In Demi’s case, it’ll be good to have people around.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Evan Chaffee, San Juan Capistrano Planning Commissioner

Stepping up to Support Veterans Navigating the VA system can be tough, but local efforts can go a long way

M

any Americans are still reeling from the negligence revealed in the Veterans Health Administration scandal, from which an internal audit of the VA released in June found that more than 120,000 veterans were left waiting or never got care.

In this same audit, it was found that schedulers established unofficial lists or made it appear that waiting times for care were more favorable. This investigation was sparked after 35 veterans died while waiting for care at the VA hospital in Phoenix, Arizona.

Shortly after the release of the audit, the Federal Bureau of Investigation opened a criminal investigation of the VA. While the federal government appears to have performed its duties to veterans poorly or not at all, that is not the case with local organizations dedicated to veterans issues.

With the third largest veteran population in the state of California, Orange County has an important responsibility to serve, support and respect the men and women who have fought to protect our freedoms.

It has been reassuring to see our local municipalities rise in support of our servicemen and women in the form of city-sponsored military units. For instance, San Juan Capistrano provides support for the 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, San Clemente supports the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and Dana Point has adopted the 5th Marine Regiment.

With Camp Pendleton sitting at our southern border, it is reassuring to know that these support groups will be able

provide aid, comfort and assistance to our Marines, Sailors and their families.

In 1978, the Orange County Board of Supervisors formed the OC Veterans Advisory EVAN CHAFFEE Council to advise the Planning board on issues pertainCommissioner ing to veterans and their dependents. At one recent meeting, the council provided a presentation from the city of Anaheim introducing their veterans’ resource center.

Anaheim city staff displayed a page devoted to veterans services now found on their city website. This page includes information regarding housing, benefits, compensation, job fairs, a job directory and a resource directory.

In some cities a dedicated city staffed resource center is not economically viable.

Understanding this, the Veterans Advisory Council has been urging cities to provide a centralized veterans support section on city websites that, at minimum, directs local veterans to helpful resources provided by the county, state and federal governments.

While Anaheim utilizes its staff to manage this network, the city of Dana Point has established an alternative method of serving its veteran community. Currently, Dana Point has provided office space at city hall for its local, highly active Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 9934 to utilize their volunteer services to provide aid to our vets.

Many of these volunteers have already started or completed the long and arduous process to obtain the benefits the VA owes them. In many cases these men and women have had to wait years to finally get their earned benefits.

With that in mind, Dana Point VFW post members volunteer to help other veterans with this process. They have learned, out of necessity, the ins and outs of this application process and have become a knowledgeable resource for other veterans. These men and women provide a true public service without any real recognition.

Our Orange County cities have an opportunity to better serve our veterans by establishing a resource page on each city’s website, and additionally, by partnering with local veterans’ organizations to create advisory committees and regular volunteer-manned offices at every city hall. Local cost would be minimal, but the impact for our veterans community would be tremendous.

Evan Chaffee is a lifelong resident of San Juan Capistrano and is currently serving his first term on the city’s Planning Commission. He serves as campaign manager for Orange County Supervisor candidate Lisa Bartlett. CD 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.

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Letters to the Editor IN RESPONSE TO TAYLOR’S ‘GREEN’ COLUMN Art Burnevik, Dana Point

There is a term we use in the boating world, “turning green.” On the water, “green,” when the ocean plows over the bow, is not a good thing. “Turning green” is slang for sea sickness. In the case of Marianne Taylor, I think her simpleminded perspective is a form of “see” sickness, living in some Utopian dream world, like most people with her political point of view.

My first though was one of relief—not.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

“Thank God, a life expert that is going to tell us how to live and what it really means to be green.” Gee, just what the world needs, another unchallenged, selfordained pontificator telling us how to live the good life, not unduly burdened by the truth.

The sustainability, in her mind, is a sideways effort to propagate the myth of global warming, currently called “climate change” due to no data to support Al Gore’s billion-dollar money-making (not life-saving) carbon footprint scam and the fairytale that we are “running out of resources.” If she practices what she preaches, she apparently doesn’t work for a living or shop at Walmart. Even if I had the time, I prefer to live in this century and buy stuff to build up, not tear down, the economy. Stuff creates jobs.

Page 8

Her most revealing comment was that sustainability means “understanding the interconnections among economies, society and the environment and providing equitable distribution of resources and opportunities”—right out of Saul Alinsky’s playbook.

I get it. We all need to start living like it’s the 1930s, so we are all equally distributed and equally disadvantaged and equally poor (It’s a philosophy by progressives that prompted Stalin to define such blind supporters as useful idiots). Somehow, by making your own pickles and trying to grow food on an apartment balcony, we are saving the Earth. Not really. But the concept does make my stomach turn green.

I grew up in exactly the environment (Continued on page 10)

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, Amanda Huffman, Catherine Manso, Sean Robb, Jenna Ross, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 12, Issue 14. 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.

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SOAPBOX (Continued from page 8) she describes. We canned food, had an old wringer washer in the basement and hung our clothes outside (in Minnesota winters to freeze dry), cleaned windows with vinegar and newspaper, repaired our clothes and cashed in pop bottles in between paper route collections to cover childhood entertainment expenses.

My mother made quilts for our beds and worked 40 hours a week as a nurse, rotating shifts (days, nights and graveyards week after week and year after year), and she raised four boys, along with my underemployed WWII veteran father, a machinist.

Most of our clothes were from the Salvation Army, smoke damaged, salvaged or hand-me-downs. We took jobs at ages 11-12 for anything special we wanted as kids—no one called the police or child protection services. We weren’t thinking about saving the earth, sustainability or equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. We were simply a lower, middle class family doing what we needed to do and who relied on ourselves, unlike the lady next door.

She was able-bodied with two kids in school all day and a live-in boyfriend with free housing, medical, dental, furniture, a welfare check every month (and money off the books) for all the years I grew up in my home.

Is that the kind of equitable distribution we should welcome in an equitable green economy? My mom and dad busted their butts to provide for us, while the lazy neighbors saw them as suckers.

So Taylor’s “green” really means spreading someone else’s wealth around, like my parents I suppose, but likely not starting with her paycheck. It’s the “world solution” for simple-minded people who think buying as little as possible and replacing personal productivity with excessive government regulation focused on nonsense (“economic justice”) and handouts is the path from a depressed economy to a utopian society. It doesn’t work. See Obama’s failures for details.

The global warming that scares me is the nuclear attack on America that is inevitable because our enemies are welcomed into our open borders while they see us as suckers and prepare for Armageddon.

The “green” party people are content with banning plastic bags and killing birds with windmills so they feel good on Earth Day. On reflection, I guess I am green—feeling green, that is. It makes me sick that there are so many indoctrinated “progressives” thinking they have a right to tell other people how to live, oblivious to economics and the real threat to Mother Earth and America—useful idiots.

TOO MUCH RATED R, NOT ENOUGH PG Todd Gorton, San Juan Capistrano We have lived in San Juan Capistrano for almost four years now and have seen the growth of our downtown area. The theater has been a significant part of that.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

One San Juan Capistrano resident is unhappy with the number of R-rated films playing at the Regency Theatre, including the new Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel comedy, ‘Sex Tape’. Photo: Brian Park

Our family loves an evening downtown with a movie and ice cream.

Our town is quickly becoming a great destination for young families. That is why I don’t understand the selection of movies that are playing regularly at our little theater. I have contacted the theater directly but hope as a city we can agree. Currently all but one movie playing is rated “R.” This is not uncommon. Now, the theater is showing the movie Sex Tape.

Really?

There are so many great movies out there, but for some reason our family has to leave and drive to other theaters in surrounding cities to see family-friendly movies. We’re planning an outing for my son’s soccer team. We’ll be going to Mission Viejo to the Regal Theater because that is the closest option for a family-friendly showing.

I hope Regency will consider the young families and demographics of our city when selecting films. I understand with a small movie theater you have fewer options, but why not work to find a balance?

I hope you’ll consider my thoughts. I would be willing to suggest that it could make a big difference. Our city continues to discuss and address the big question: “Who do we want to be?” I hope it’s not a place where our small town theater plays only R-rated movies like Sex Tape.

outside community, rather than indulge the wants of their own small constituency.

Instead of giving in to small-minded and self-indulgent concerns of residents who want to keep our little town neighborly and pleasant, they’re looking ahead to the capital they can make from the developers and the bed taxes they can collect, so they can continue to overspend on our behalf.

As you may already know, three of the projects they’re currently planning for our small town are The Shops at Capistrano, Urban Village’s San Juan Hotel & Villas and Spieker Development’s Laguna Glen Continuing Care Retirement Community.

Of course, there are many other developments they’re working on as well, but just these three projects alone will turn more than 41 acres of our town into high-density developments, meaning more outstanding architecture surrounding us, more of our abundant water supply being used up, more time spent idling in our cars smiling at our new neighbors. They’re expected to generate well over 3,400 additional vehicle trips in our town each day. You think traffic’s fun now? Just wait.

If that all sounds good to you and you’d like to thank our civic leaders as much as I would, for knowing what’s best for us better than we do, please remember them during election time this coming November.

DOES THE COUNCIL HAVE OUR BEST INTERESTS IN MIND? Shelley Bachelder, San Juan Capitrano

SPREADING MISINFORMATION Dave Solt, San Juan Capistrano

Good news, San Juan Capistrano residents. Big changes are coming your way.

Your City Council, which you helped elect, is working diligently to transform your beloved hometown into something you won’t even recognize. Their hearts are so big they’re embracing the needs of the

In a sad era of our history, Senator Joe McCarthy would ask a person the same question over and over again. “Are you now or have you ever been a member of the Communist party?”

When he had asked it enough times in public, folks would begin to wonder if there was any truth to it. Is the recipient

Page 10

of the question at least a little guilty? After all, haven’t we all heard this acquisition before?

This is the type of transgression Councilman Derek Reeve is guilty of through his columns in The Dispatch.

I know this fine newspaper allows columnists and letter-to-the-editor writers to speak freely. This is usually a good policy.

However, Councilman Reeve is abusing this privilege by using this paper to spread misinformation. His recent guest opinion (“It is Time to Respectfully Agree to Disagree,” July 11-24) is a personal attack and a continuation of his spreading information he knows to be wrong (30 percent water rates increases). He has previously put forth these same shameful items in your respected paper, at City Council meetings, in the Common Sense newspaper and elsewhere. He is getting his opportunity to make false claims over and over to the point readers will say, “Hey! Haven’t I previously read about outrageous water increases?”

This paper retains the right to edit submissions or refuse to print them. Please, in respect for your brand, The Capistrano Dispatch, exercise your rights when Reeve abuses his privileges by stating the same lies and personal attacks over and over again. Please add a footnote with what your reporter knows to be correct data and add a disclaimer to personal attacks.

Please do not provide Reeve a forum for his repeated yelling out loud, “Are you now, or have you ever been?”

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.

The Bulletin

The Dana Point Times, San Clemente Times and The Capistrano Dispatch are pleased to introduce “The Bulletin,” our new online community bulletin board. Post your events, photos and videos or join a discussion on news, issues and items of interest in and around the tri-city area. With boards titled Events, Dining, In the Community, Health & Fitness, Sports and Surf, The Bulletin is one more way to connect with the people that make our community special. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

EDITOR’S PICK

What’s going on in and around town COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 25 ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m. Climb onboard a Dana Wharf catamaran for this 90-minute wine cruise around the Dana Point Harbor. Tickets are $49. See more events at www.danawharf. com. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 888.224.0603.

Saturday | 26 BACKYARD SKILLS: BEEKEEPING 1 p.m. Learn tips and gather information on becoming a backyard beekeeper at The Ecology Center. For those participating in the hands-on component, bring a bee suit or wear jeans, a long sleeve T-shirt and boots. $20 for members, $30 for non-members. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

Sunday | 27 MIKE HAMILTON Noon-4 p.m. Enjoy live music at Mission Grill each Sunday with guitarist, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Mike Hamilton. 31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.8055, www.mikehamiltonmusic.com.

OF MICE AND MEN 2 p.m. The On-Impulse Acting Troupe and Emmy-nominated producer/director

Restaurant Spotlight: The Olives Branch

One family’s passion for fine Lebanese cuisine

BY SAMANTHA HAMMER, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

erving fresh, authentic healthy foods is a passion for owners Nabil Chmait and son Omar Chmait, who opened the doors of San Juan Capistrano’s The Olives Branch in November 2012.

Bringing family recipes and traditions from their homeland of Lebanon has made a remarkable addition to the local restaurant scene and earned a slew of loyal customers.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 25–August 7, 2014

Tuesday | 29

Sunday | 03

KNITLIT BOOK CLUB 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Bring your knitting project and join in on a lively discussion of the latest book, which will be available after the meeting. KnitLit meets the last Tuesday of each month. San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

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.

Around 4,000 concert-goers gathered at Lantern Bay Park last year for the city of Dana Point’s kickoff to its annual summer concert series. Photo: Kim Tilly

Wednesday | 30

CONCERTS IN THE PARK SUNDAY, AUGUST 3 2:30 p.m.-6 p.m. San Diego’s ultimate wedding band, The Fabulous Ultratones, takes the stage at Sea Terrace Park as part of Dana Point’s summer concert series.

And delivering 100 percent Southern Rock hits will be the Sam Morrison Band. Free.

Pacific Coast Highway and Niguel Road, Dana Point, www.danapoint.org.

BUDDY: THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY 7:30 p.m. Buddy Holly’s short but spectacular career is told through classic songs like “That’ll Be the Day” and “Peggy Sue.” Favorites from the Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens, who died in a plane crash alongside Buddy, will also be featured. Tickets start at $41. Runs through August 10. The Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2787, www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

Pamela Peak present the touching story of George and Lennie, two migrant laborers and unlikely friends, during the Great Depression. Tickets $15, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

Monday | 28 MOVIE MONDAY: CABARET 8 p.m. Set in 1931 Berlin, under the ominous presence of the Nazi Party, Cabaret tells the tale of a young night club singer, Sally Bowles, played by Liza Minnelli.

Free. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and a picnic dinner. Set-up beings at 5:30 p.m. with short-animated films leading up to the night’s feature. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Arts Plaza, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, www. scfta.org.

Thursday | 31 LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Help clean and maintain Los Rios Park with fellow green thumbs. Meets every Thursday, except rain days and holidays, in front of the Montanez Adobe. Bring gloves, clippers and an apron. Must be 18 or older. Sign the volunteer form at www.goinnative.net.

Friday | 01 FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Join the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library for a movie night in La Sala auditorium. $2 donation supports the library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. www.sjcfol.org.

The Olives Branch chefs were trained in the fine Lebanese cooking techniques and recipes of Ghania, Omar’s mother. The menu features homemade cuisine crafted with only the finest and freshest ingredients and an open-kitchen concept allows guests to watch these talented chefs at work.

“We love San Juan Capistrano,” Omar said. “We are honored to serve our customers authentic family recipes brought down from generations of family restaurateurs.”

A favorite choice among the restaurant’s many traditional Lebanese appetizers is the fresh fried eggplant, a delicate treat that is lightly fried and topped with diced tomatoes and tahini sauce. Another must try is the spinach fatayer, a homemade pastry shell filled with sautéed spinach, onion and olive

PRICE RANGE: $6 - $30 HOURS: Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. The lounge has extended hours.

RESERVATIONS: Accepted but walk-ins are welcome ENTERTAINMENT: Music and dancing at 8 p.m. each Saturday

oil. Entree specialties include beef, lamb, chicken and fish creations.

Crisp fresh salads, homemade soups, rice bowls, a la carte selections and freshly made desserts are served daily. Lunch specials are priced from $5.99 to $7.99. A children’s menu and catering are also

offered.

Beer, wine and hand-crafted cocktails can be enjoyed in the dining room or in the

Page 13

Wednesday | 06 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CHAMBER NETWORKING BREAKFAST 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m. Join the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce for a networking breakfast at The Vintage Steakhouse.

This month, enjoy a presentation by the West Coast Film Festival. Occurs the first Wednesday of each month. $15 for chamber members, $25 for non-members.

26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano. www.sanjuanchamber.com.

Thursday | 07 READ TO A DOG 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Kids can read to licensed therapy dogs, as studies have shown that it can improve children’s reading skills and self-confidence. Sign up at the information desk at the San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, or call 949.493.1752 to reserve a spot.

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

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

traditional and romantic Moroccan cocktail lounge that inspires pure comfort and relaxation.

31105 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite C13, San Juan Capistrano, www.theolivesbranch.com. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

GUEST OPINION: Dirt Therapy by Marianne Taylor

When it Comes to Saving Water, Just Think About it

An Unwelcome Visitor

Problems arise when a woman from the past reenters a taken man’s life

A

The situation is getting dire and California needs everyone to get on board

I

s there anyone in California that doesn’t know we’re in a drought? Has the media told you over and over that the drought police are coming? It’s looking pretty serious with the water warnings. As of July 15, 2014, new state rules were passed cracking down on water waste.

We’ve been informed that residents, businesses and public entities will face daily fines up to $500. The infractions include: washing driveways and sidewalks; watering ornamental landscaping or turf with potable water that causes runoff; using a hose to wash a motor vehicle, unless the hose is outfitted with a nozzle; and using potable water in a fountain, unless the water is recirculated.

I’m not sure who the drought police are but I do know that I do not want to wait to have an infraction if I can make simple changes in my daily life in and around my home.

Do your part. Starting today, use less water.

Time your showers to two minutes—the Navy way, get wet, soap up, wash off. While you’re at it, add a bucket in your shower and collect water to use on your plants.

Calculate how much landscape water you’re actually using. Recently, I saw my husband staring at his watch while he was filling a five gallon bucket full of water. I asked him, “What are you doing? Washing your car?” No, he said, “I’m figuring out how much water we use hand watering our plants.” Turns out, it costs us about $3 to water for 30 minutes. Knowing this information is essential to getting in control of our water bills and water use.

Seventy-five percent of our state’s water use is in landscaping. Now is the time to get on board and lose the lawn—it’s that dire of a situation.

There are five great reasons for losing the lawn. A typical lawn consumes 10,000 gallons a year—think of the reduction in your water bill.

Gas-powered lawn equipment emits 11 times the emissions of a new car for each hour of operation, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency—think of the clean air and peace and quiet—no more mowers or blowers.

Americans put 23 million tons of lawn clippings a year into landfills. By replacing your lawn, you will be reducing your carbon footprint. Drought tolerant landscaping uses 30 to 50 percent less water The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

than turf—think of the savings in the bank over the years.

Replacing your lawn with native plants, perennial grasses and ground covers also support beneficial insects, like butterflies, and birds— DIRT THERAPY

By Marrianne think of a healthy Earth Taylor for future generations.

We took out our lawn years ago and created a natural native garden, along with a butterfly habitat and water fountain that uses recycled water. Not sure how to get started? Check your local garden nurseries regarding complimentary garden consultants to help you lay out your yard, select plants and install proper irrigation.

It doesn’t have to be a chore, either. Recruit the family to reinvent your gardens and build a place to play and relax. Be sure to check your city’s water department and ask about any lawn rebate program.

With each household reducing their water use, in and out of the house, we’re helping to make California a greener place.

Marianne Taylor is a 24-year resident of San Juan Capistrano, in the Los Rios Historic District. She is married to City Councilman John Taylor and mother to 24-yearold Harrison and 16-year-old Claire. She is the executive director and “dirt therapist” for Goin Native. CD

Southern California woman emailed me saying that her romantic relationship is worthy of a soap opera.

Kathryn (not her real name), said, “I have been going out with my boyfriend for three and a half years. We have enjoyed a wonderful relationship. He is the best boyfriend ever. I have never met anyone like him. He goes out of his way to be helpful and sweet to me.”

Kathryn, 69, was married for 33 years.

Her husband passed away 13 years ago.

Her boyfriend, also 69, was briefly married.

He lived with a woman for 12 years. They broke up four years ago.

Two years ago, Kathryn and her boyfriend took golf lessons together and have been golfing ever since. He enjoyed the community where she lives so much he bought a home there.

Here’s where the plot thickens. Kathryn explained that recently, the 54-year-old daughter of the same woman her boyfriend lived with called him, after four years of no contact. When he told her about the community and the golf course, she mentioned that she had always wanted to learn to play golf. He invited her to come to their community to learn.

Kathryn said, “Her first visit was golf.

The second was golf and dinner. The third was golf, dinner and swimming in the community pool. Then, tennis was mentioned.

On one occasion, she brought her robe and slippers and stayed overnight.”

On that night, her boyfriend stayed with Kathryn.

She added, “I am asked to go along on parts of these golf/dinner/swimming outings. I feel like a chaperone or worse,part of the crowd. He is happy and flattered to be in her company but is disturbed that, after several weeks of us entertaining her, I do not wish to continue the charade.

“She is more educated than I. He be-

lieves this means I should respect her. I feel he is disrespecting my feelings and me in general. From the start, I’ve believed she has an agenda. To suddenly be best friends after four years is suspicious.

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 “I do not understand

By Tom Blake why he is forcing her on me. I have not been rude and have attempted to accept her into our lives since he means a lot to me, but I am baffled as to the point of all this. He is dismayed that I cannot accept her. She is not someone I would become friends with. I consider her pushy and somewhat vulgar in her language. She should be able to express herself without expletives.

“I am thinking of ending the whole thing, which would hurt; but not as much as watching him ‘respect’ someone I feel is up to something. Wouldn’t she be concerned that this would be upsetting to her mom?”

Kathryn said they have both invested large amounts of money into two trips to foreign countries together—one in August for two weeks and another for all of November.

“This could turn into a messy situation,” she said.

Kathryn added, “I have tried reasoning with him, but he insists she is just a friend.

I am past being polite and am just plain angry, not to mention hurt.

“Am I overreacting? Am I being unreasonable?”

I told Kathryn I would not like what is happening either.

Looking to meet new people? The next singles age 50 plus meet and greet gathering is Thursday, July 31, at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

There is no cost to attend. For questions, call Tom at 949.248.9008. CD

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Solution:

Even without a turf lawn, you can put together a beautiful, water-wise yard using native plants, perennial grasses and ground cover. Photo by Marianne Taylor 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

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 14

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

The Capo Girls Softball 14U All-Stars won the ASA C State Championship on July 19. Courtesy photo

Capo Girls Softball Wins State Championship in Historic Fashion

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he Capo Girls Softball 14U AllStar team paved their way to the American Softball Association C State Championship game by using small ball tactics. Bunts, hit and runs and hitting for contact has been their trademark in a season that has seen them claim seven consecutive tournament wins and compile an overall record of 59-4.

But when they took the field for a game against rival Garden Grove in the championship game of the coveted state championship on July 19, Capo Girls Softball head coach Dan Massucco decided to abandon small ball and have the local team swing for the fences.

Garden Grove defenders were creeping in on defense, allowing space behind them to be exploited, which is what the Capo bats took advantage of. They put on an offensive display and held a three-run cushion heading into the final inning. Pitcher Nicole Arico, who pitched the game with super glue holding a broken nail on her throwing hand together, got out of a bases loaded situation in the seventh inning and the Capo team went on to win, 7-4.

Garden Grove had eliminated the Capo team in the district championships weeks earlier, which made the state re-match between the two that much more gripping.

“I told the team to forget the bunts and let’s play ball. We started hitting the ball and it exploded,” Massucco said. “To take state, which was goal all along, was great. But to beat the team that beat you at districts was a good feeling.”

It is the first time in the program’s history that a 14U team, which draws players from San Juan Capistrano, has won the state tournament. They will now head to the ASA Fast The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

Pitch Girls National Western Championships in Medford, Ore. on July 29.

In the buildup to the state tournament the team brought in local high school softball pitchers to face in batting practice. They also ramped up their pitching machines to 70 mph, faster than what they were expecting to face in the state tournament. All of the tinkering and practice paid off in the state tournament.

“They had a lot of confidence going into the state hitting the ball. Our strategy really created chaos and made us two dimensional,” Massucco said.

The San Juan Capistrano community has rallied around the team during their historic run. At a recent Coffee Chat meeting at Mission Grill, the team showed up to get ideas on how to fundraise for their trips, which Massucco said are not cheap. After hearing of the team’s success and desire to raise money, Coffee Chat attendees immediately grabbed a cup and passed it around for donations. The team came away with over $300.

For most of the players on the team, the regional tournament on July 29 will be the final time they play alongside one another before heading off to different high schools.

“I would love to say I want a top-10 finish, or to win, which would be amazing. But at the same time, I want them to have fun one last time,” Massucco said.

“Regardless of what happens it’s been a remarkable, banner year.”

The Capo Girls Softball 14U All-Star team includes: Riley Dungan, Caitlyn Sung, Alexis White, Angelica Gonzalez, Taylor Hopper, Nicole Arico, Claire Steines, Grace Collier, Kyra Massucco, Alyssa Peterson, Alyson Salas, Mariah Bohl, Elibeth Flores and Regan Salas. CD Page 16

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Ca Lic #697355 714.396.2188, 949.573.8386, www.bbb.org The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

For San Juan Ballplayers, Old Majors Becomes a Field of Dreams

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

here are five baseball fields utilized by the San Juan Capistrano Little League, each providing their own unique charm to those who play on them. But in the eyes of many in town there is one field that stands above the rest.

In its long history, Old Majors Field has seen its share of strikeouts, extra inning walk-offs and unlikely victories.

But more importantly, the popular field has been the universal backdrop for the memories of countless youth ballplayers and their families, who will remember the historic field for years to come.

The 51-year-old San Juan Capistrano institution lies directly against the sound wall off Interstate-5 South near Ortega Highway. It is tucked away in a grassy corner of space behind San Juan Hills Elementary, right where Acjachema Street comes to an end. Despite the constant commotion of the freeway the ballfield, which is naturally surrounded by trees and idyllic houses, exists in its own little bubble.

The origin story of the field is quite simple and longtime San Juan Capistrano resident Pat Forster, 69, remembers how it came to be.

Forster’s father, Marco Forster, was on the San Juan Capistrano School Board in the 1950s, along with Fred Newhart Jr. and P.J. Meadows. There was already

Old Majors Field in San Juan Capistrano has been hosting Little League games for over 50 years. Photo: Steve Breazeale

an established baseball league for older kids, held at places like Stone Field, so the three decided there needed to be an official Little League setup in town. The school board trio thought it was time younger players joined in.

“The three-person board had tremendous pleasure watching their kids play Little League and wanted to get the next generation to have the same fun,” Pat Forster said.

Scoreboard YOUTH SOCCER The West Coast Futbol Club’s Boys 16U team took home the first-place trophy at the Slammers Futbol Classic on July 20. The local team won four games over a two-day stretch, scoring 12 goals while allowing zero. In the tournament’s championship match, West Coast Futbol defeated Cerritos United Soccer Club Blue 98, 2-0. Local players on the team include: Braden Zines, Kaipele Obrero-Jackson, Bryan Calderon, Chase Paulson, Chasen Brutavao and Alberto Torres. The team is coached by Oliver Wyss.

Much like the legendary field built by Kevin Costner’s character in the movie Field of Dreams, the parcel of land Old Majors Field was built on used to be a corn field. There was also an orange grove nearby.

A lot has changed in the area over the years, such as the expansion of the adjacent freeway and a large sound wall that lies behind the left field fence, which acts as a barrier for the area’s homeowners as well as a natural stopper for any ball trying to find the windshield of a passing car.

Old Majors now plays host to the AA and AAA levels of San Juan Little League.

There is also a tee ball and an A ballfield right next to it.

The field measures 175 feet down the left field line, 200 feet to straightaway center and 185 feet to right. There is a large net in between the left field fence and the sound wall, to make sure home runs can’t escape. According to league president Dave Rosa and grounds maintenance manager Warren Michaelis, the net was put in place in the early 90’s, when a

standout pitcher and hitter was energizing the field with his power and strength.

Malaefou Mackenzie was a feared pitcher because he threw so hard and was a prodigious power hitter, routinely swatting balls over the sound wall, prompting the need for a net. Mackenzie would go on to be a three-sport athlete at Capistrano Valley High School and play tailback for the USC football team from 1997 to 2002.

It’s a classic looking ballfield, but what the players really look forward to when they step on the diamond is gathering in the unique dugouts.

The dugouts at Old Majors Field are below ground level, like they are in MLB stadiums. The players get to watch from a distinct vantage point and during games, get to feel like big leaguers.

“I like way the field is designed with the underground dug outs. That is one of my favorite features,” 12-year-old Little Leaguer Nathan Yates said.

“They are the best dug outs I’ve ever been in,” Yates younger brother, Michael, added.

Old Majors Field has become the landmark for San Juan Capistrano’s baseball themed family tree, encapsulating the city’s small-town feel. According to Rosa, there are generations of residents who grew up in town, played on the field and now watch their own children run around the same hallowed ground.

For others, like Rosa, who did not grow up in San Juan, the field attracts baseball lovers nonetheless.

When his boy began playing, Rosa wanted to help out and drag the infields, which he began doing for the tee ball diamond. As his child grew, he transitioned over to Old Majors and was so enamored with the history and passion found in San Juan Capistrano Little League he became the president of the whole operation.

Old Majors Field just has that effect on people.

“You become a part of this field and it becomes a part of you. This is one of a kind. I don’t think they’ll ever make another field like this again,” Rosa said. CD

The West Coast Futbol Club’s Boys 16U team won the Slammers Futbol Classic on July 20. Courtesy photo WE WANT TO RUN YOUR SCORES, RESULTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS IN “SCOREBOARD.”

E-mail sports@thecapistranodispatch.com, fax 949.388.9977, mail or drop off the information to us at 34932 Calle del Sol, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 by each Monday at 5 p.m.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 25-August 7, 2014

One distinct characteristic of Old Majors Field in San Juan Capistrano is the below ground dugouts, seen here on the right. Photo: Steve Breazeale

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