October 24, 2014

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

Teen’s Death Shakes AYSO Community as Coach Returns PAGE 8 to Sideline PAGE 26 FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

INSIDE: SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION

Split Council Approves Senior Community EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

OCTOBER 24-NOVEMBER 13, 2014 • VOLUME 12, ISSUE 20

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Councilmembers Offer Endorsements for Office SOAPBOX/PAGE 9

Newest Ms. Fiesta and Señor San Juan Named SJC LIVING/PAGE 20

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

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week Split Council Approves Senior Community THE LATEST: More than 30 acres of San Juan Capistrano’s last remaining and longest-running agricultural sites will soon be transformed into a 407-unit, senior-living community with medical facilities after a split City Council voted Tuesday to rezone the land.

The divisive project has packed recent Planning Commission and City Council meetings as locals faced-off against potential retirement-center residents, and with three of the council’s five seats a up for election Nov. 4, the project has become one of the top issues facing the eight candidates.

In a 3-2 vote, Mayor Sam Allevato and Councilmen Larry Kramer and John Taylor, both up for re-election, approved amending the city’s General Plan to rezone 35 acres for agricultural land to make room for the project on Del Obispo Street, north of Camino Del Avion.

Councilman Derek Reeve, who is also seeking re-election, and Councilman Roy Byrnes opposed.

The vote countered a 2-1 Planning Commission recommendation to reject rezoning the land and developer Spieker Senior Development’s environmental impact report that cited increased density, impact on traffic and water demand among the Laguna Glen proposal’s negatives.

WHAT’S NEXT: The project site currently serves as the distribution location for Armstrong Garden Center, which will remain open. Construction on the senior-living center could begin in mid-2015. The retirement community will feature 407 living units for seniors age 60 and up. There will also be a health care center with 39 assisted care units, 21 memory-support care units and 41 nursing-care rooms.

FIND OUT MORE: Read the full story at www.thacapistranodispatch.com.—Steve Breazeale

SONGS Storage Bidders Talk to Public THE LATEST: Two competitors bidding on whose product will hold spent, or used, nuclear fuel at the shuttered San Onofre

Hundreds of current, and hopeful, San Juan Capistrano residents attended the Oct. 21 City Council meeting to show support and opposition to the Laguna Glen senior community project. The council approved the project in a 3-2 vote. Photo: Steve Breazeale

Nuclear Generating Station participated in an unusual event Tuesday, Oct. 14 where members of the public inquired about their storage systems’ safety.

Officials from Areva and Holtec International came together at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center to pitch their proposals to the public—right in the midst of their bidding process.

The event, hosted by Southern California Edison, the nuclear plant’s majority owner and operator, highlighted community concerns and allowed the public to peek at plans the nuclear-storage competitors have for the facility’s nuclear waste, which will likely remain onsite indefinitely.

Representatives from Areva, the utility’s current vendor, and Holtec described their plans as having “defense in depth,” meaning the number of protective layers between used fuel and the outside world.

Currently, much of the plant’s spent fuel is housed in cooling pools, which local environmental activists have labeled as unsafe and asked for a swift move to the more permanent dry-cask storage.

WHAT’S NEXT: With Edison’s June 2013 decision to shut down and decommission the power plant, some 2,600 spent-fuel canisters from the two remaining nuclear reactors came off-line at once.

Now, rather than canisters being encapsulated in dry-cask containers bit-by-bit, the process needs to be done in short order.

—Jim Shilander

Council Campaign Gifts Reaches $95,000 THE LATEST: The eight candidates for San Juan Capistrano City Council have jointly raised a near $95,000 in campaign contributions with the ticket’s two incumbents accounting for half the donations.

Councilmen John Taylor and Larry Kramer received a collective $52,532 in donations—or $29,904 and $22,628, respec-

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

tively. Taylor, a general contracting business owner, had 93 contributors from both individuals and businesses, while Kramer, a retired nuclear submarine captain had 74.

Behind the highest-donated-to candidate is insurance broker Stephanie Frisch, who had raised $16,655 from 49 donors at the filing period’s close on Sept. 30. Jan Siegel, a community volunteer, followed with $10,165 from 31 donors; architect Robert Williams with $7,825 from 19; Pam Patterson, a lawyer, with $2,984 from nine; Councilman Derek Reeve, a lawyer, with $2,548 from five; and educator Kerry Ferguson with $720 from two contributors.

Candidates must disclose all donations of $100 or more. In San Juan Capistrano, individual campaign contributions are limited to $500—up from $250 in previous elections.

The City Council voted unanimously in April to increase the maximum donation amount for the first time since 1992.

In addition to monetary contributions, candidates are also required to disclose any funds they loaned themselves, which amounted to $75,900 in this year’s election.

Each candidate also itemized their expenses for filing and ballot fees, print ads, office expenses, campaign consultants and more, which totaled just over $111,000 in expenses.

WHAT’S NEXT: A second disclosure statement was due Oct. 23, but was not available at press time.

Residents take to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 4 to vote in the General Election. According to the Orange County Registrar of Voters, San Juan Capistrano has just over 17,000 active voters.—Andrea Papagianis

Judge Gives City OK to Pump Water THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano received the green light to continue pumping water from a source used by San Juan Hills Golf Club, at least for now, as the parties prepare for a trial expected next summer.

Page 3

On Friday, Oct. 10 Orange County Superior Court Judge Peter Wilson rejected a request from the golf course’s lawyers to prohibit the city from collecting water from the San Juan Basin. Wilson noted there was no confirmation the city’s pumping caused negative impacts on the course.

Both parties draw water from the basin— the club utilizes it for course irrigation while the city utilizes two basin wells in its groundto-drinking water operation, which includes eight wells in total.

The case, filed in August, pitted a city attempting to achieve self-reliance in a region where most municipalities import a majority of their water supply against a local business that draws customers to lush fairways. It highlights a growing number of water problems being faced municipalities and businesses in the midst of California’s drought. At question now are respective water rights.

The city taking water has prevented San Juan Hills from maintaining its property, said Gerald Klein, the Newport Beach attorney representing the golf club. The club’s rights trump those of the city, he said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Wilson set a tentative trial date for August. At trial, the club will seek a permanent injunction barring the city from pumping water.—AP

Temporary Fire Station Opens in Reata Park THE LATEST: To mitigate potential service disruptions and maintain response times to eastern San Juan Capistrano, due to upcoming Interstate 5 and Ortega Highway construction and closures, the Orange County Fire Authority has opened a temporary fire station in Reata Park.

Beginning Monday, Nov. 3, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will work to reconfigure Ortega Highway between I-5 and Del Obispo Street. This construction phase will see a full closure of Ortega Highway over I-5. The closure is expected to last up to three weeks.

WHAT”S NEXT: This road closure will impact fire service delivery east of I-5 provided

by OCFA Fire Station 7, located in western San Juan. The temporary station, OCFA Fire Station 207, will be staffed through midNovember or until Caltrans has completed the reconfiguration.

Both fire stations will be open during construction.

FIND OUT MORE: For information on future closures, visit www.dot.ca.gov/dist12/ ortega.php.—AP 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

Edison Says SJC Sheriff’s Outage Has Blotter Reduced Danger

Saturday, October 18 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Via Mayor/ Calle Jardin (11:19 p.m.) The caller reported a loud party and several teens driving at a high speed through the neighborhood.

COMPILED BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS AND STEVE SOHANAKI

T

he chances of a radiological release due to an accident at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station have been profoundly reduced as a result of the plant’s shutdown and subsequent decommissioning process, an officer from the plant’s owner Southern California Edison, said Thursday, Oct. 9 at a meeting in San Juan Capistrano.

However, the utility is still required to keep up emergency planning with the lessened danger.

The lack of major heat or pressure sources, as might be possible at an operating plant, reduced the possibility of accidents involving spent, or used, nuclear fuel, said Thomas Palmisano, Edison’s chief nuclear officer. Such fuel from the plant’s nuclear reactors is currently being stored in large cooling pools on site. That fuel will eventually be moved to dry-cask storage containers.

According to Palmisano, Edison has emergency plans in place to counteract serious threats, including a loss of water, which cools the spent-fuel canisters, or the zirconium that holds the nuclear fuel from catching fire.

If a fire were to happen, the utility would have more than 17 hours to prevent it, and currently has more than 1.5 million gallons of water stored in case of water loss, Palmisano confirmed.

But local activists still say more needs to be done to prevent incidents from occurring.

Staff from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the federal body that oversees nuclear operations, will conduct a public meeting on Monday, Oct. 27 in Carlsbad to discuss Edison’s decommissioning plan. indefinitely.

The meeting will be held at Omni La Costa, 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.—Jim Shilander

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

DANA POINT The developer of a highly-contested hotel in Dana Point’s southern entry point officially withdrew a permit request with the city to build a two- to five-story, 250-room inn at the southeast corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Del Obispo Street.

Following years of attempting to push plans through the city’s development process, Beverly Hills Hospitality Group abandoned its request after the Planning Commission denied its application in April.

The developer appealed to the City Council, which was expected to decide on the mat-

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.

Tuesday, October 21 BATTERY REPORT Paseo Adelanto, 32500 Block (12:08 p.m.) An informant visited Police Services in regard to seeing a person involved in an incident at City Hall 10 years prior.

PROPERTY FOR DESTRUCTION Via de Anza, 22600 Block (2:55 p.m.) Firearms were found in a unit at San Juan Self Storage.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 31700 Block (12:36 p.m.) A man, who attempted to take money from the Starbucks’ employee tip jar, returned and locked himself in the restroom.

DISTURBANCE Los Rios Street, 31400 Block (7:13 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for the public parking structure where eight males were said to be loudly drinking alcohol.

Tuesday, October 16

Sunday, October 19 DISTURBANCE Sea Breeze Court, 33000 Block (2:42 p.m.) A neighbor reported a confrontation between a man and woman.

The caller said items were being tossed from a residence at the end of a cul-de-sac.

PETTY THEFT Junipero Serra Road, 26500 Block (12:47 a.m.) Officials were alerted to a 7-Eleven beer run.

ter Oct. 7.

Instead, the five-member body unanimously accepted the developer’s request to withdraw permits.

In a letter received a day prior to the scheduled vote, the developer expressed a desire to go back to the drawing board and return with a new plan. The council’s vote effectively throws out the Planning Commission’s denial and allows the developer to start the application process with a clean slate.

SAN CLEMENTE The Orange County Public Library system is expected to bring a mobile facility to San Clemente after failing to find a suitable, temporary location for the local library branch during renovations.

A mobile library, which would include

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

PETTY THEFT REPORT Camino Capistrano/ Ortega Highway (1:07 p.m.) A woman contacted authorities after someone had stolen her son’s iPhone. The caller was tracking the phone and said it was still in the downtown area.

Friday, October 17

Monday, October 20

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Paseo Adelanto/Del Obispo Street (10:13 a.m.) A woman wearing a leopard print skirt was walking along the edge of a bridge. The caller said the woman was trying to keep her balance but was concerned because the bridge was above a creek.

RECKLESS DRIVING Alipaz Street/Camino del Avion (5:07 p.m.) Drivers were doing donuts at the dead end of Alipaz Street.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Santa Rosalia, 31000 Block (8:12 p.m.)

The caller told authorities that a telemarketer threatened to send a bomb to his house.

DISTURBANCE Verdugo Street/Camino Capistrano (8:02 p.m.) Two drunken males were involved in a physical altercation near the train platform. One man, with a white beard, was reported swinging a cane.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Capistrano, 32200 Block (4:05 p.m.) A man and a woman were said to be living in the dumpster behind Spine and Sport Physical Therapy. Their vehicle was a bronze, older model Nissan.

a WiFi hotspot, could be placed at Vista Hermosa Sports Park to supplement local library service while the Avenida Del Mar location is closed. The library is undergoing extensive construction and will be closed until summer 2015.

No date has been set for when the portable space would be in town.

The library has been closed since June and due to un-foreseen issues, such as termites, the $1.8 million construction cost has increased by $60,000.

In recent months, San Clemente City Council members have expressed discontent with the county library system, which the city currently pays into without receiving services. The council may consider a proposal to leave the county system later this year.

Page 5

Community Meetings MONDAY, OCTOBER 27

Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. The city’s body tasked with oversight of development meets at City Hall, Council Chambers, located at 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Go to www. sanjuancapistrano.org to see the night’s agenda.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29

Downtown SJC Farmers Market

3 p.m. Shop fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from 40 vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano every Wednesday.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Election Day 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Polling places for the General Election, in which voters will decide on state, county and municipal offices and measures, will be open around town. Contact the City Clerk’s office at 949.493.1171 with questions or visit www.ocvote.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6

Garden Angels 8:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.

Volunteers meet every Thursday in front of the Montanez Adobe at Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano to help maintain the garden and more. Bring gloves and wear close-toed shoes. Call 949.606.6386 or visit www.goinnative. net for more.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10

Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. Attend the body’s twice monthly meeting at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto or watch it live from home through www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12

CUSD Board of Trustee Meeting 7 p.m.

The Capistrano Unified School District governing body meets at district offices, located at 33122 Valle Road. Visit, www. capousd.org to see the body’s agenda.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Celebrating Lives Cut Short

Families and loved ones remember Alejandro Sotelo and Brandon Moreno

BY JIM SHILANDER, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

F

amilies and loved ones gathered Oct. 17 at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano to celebrate two lives that will not have the opportunity to fulfill the promise they’d shown after a night of fun turned to tragedy Saturday on Oct. 4.

Alejandro Sotelo and Brandon Moreno, along with Matthew Melo, Jenny Campos and Jenny Bahena were killed when a vehicle driven by their friend, Bradley Morales, crashed and caught fire in Irvine at approximately 2 a.m., while driving back from a trip to Knott’s Berry Farm.

Moreno was an eighth-grader at Carl Hankey Middle School. Sotelo was a freshman at Capistrano Valley.

Gonzalo “Gonzo” Miranda, a youth minister at the church, said in talking to the boys’ families in the days and weeks

Mourners at the funeral mass for Alejandro Sotelo and Brandon Moreno at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano Friday. Photo: Jim Shilander

since the accident, the picture emerged of two boys with very different hopes and drives, but who shared a positive outlook on what was to come. Father Robert Capone led the funeral mass, and Kevin Vann, Bishop of the Diocese of Orange, also addressed the service.

“There have been many conversations about the boys since their passing, and while they’re difficult to talk about, the memory of these boys always brings

smiles to our faces and warmth to our hearts,” Miranda said.

Moreno, the “King of Swag,” was the person who got dance floors filled at quinceañeras and parties. But he also had a tender heart, especially for young children, reading to first-graders at school and making sure they were taken care of at recess or after school.

“Whenever someone wanted to play, he never brushed them off because of his

age,” Miranda said.

Moreno was also remembered by his family as “the neighborhood mechanic,” Miranda said, who made efforts to fix up the skateboards and scooters of friends.

Sotelo was remembered for being able to succeed in whatever he set his mind to.

“Was there anything he couldn’t do?”

Miranda asked. “He was intelligent, athletic, artistic.”

A great swimmer, runner and soccer player, Sotelo was remembered as one who consistently strived to maximize his talent and his effort as well as creating opportunities for his teammates. He wanted to be the first person in his family to be the valedictorian of his class.

“We grieve because Alex and Brandon still had so much to live for,” Miranda said. “Over the last two weeks, I’ve had to answer many questions from the young people of our parish. ‘Why would God want Alex and Brandon, they were so young?’ ‘Why them, why not someone else who really deserved it? Why my friends?’ Everyone is seeking answers as to why this happened.”

Miranda said he’d had a difficult time answering those questions, both from the friends and families of the boys, but also himself. In fact, he said, there really isn’t an answer. The only thing that can provide comfort, he said, is faith, in this case the faith that God will not only be there, but also would allow for people to release themselves to God’s hands. CD

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

high school courses to students worldwide: an advanced Spanish language and culture course, an introduction to psychology class and a course designed to guide students through the college application process.

Courses were developed and will be taught by school faculty.

With its selection, St. Margaret’s joins the likes of MIT, Georgetown University, Rice University, University of California Berkeley and Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, in offering courses, ranging from math and science to English and history. Weston High School near Boston is also offering classes.

EdX is a nonprofit, open-source enterprise that offers online courses from more than 50 institutions. It now includes 26 high school classes to help close the readiness gap between high school and college.

Find out more at www.edx.org/highschool-initiative.

COMPILED BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

Film Steps Into the Reagans’ World Take a journey through the personal and political lives of former-President Ronald and wife Nancy Reagan on Thursday, Oct. 30 as local resident, filmmaker and the documentary’s writer and director Robert Klein premiers The Reagans-The Legacy Endures.

Kline’s latest documentary chronicles the 40th president’s personal life from his relationships with his children to the unique partnership he and the First Lady, Nancy, had behind closed White House doors.

Through the film, Kline explores Reagan’s other jobs as father, husband and friend while discovering the reasons his political legacy endures some 24 years after he left the presidency and 10 years after his death.

The event begins at 7 p.m. at Regency Theatre, located at 26762 Verdugo St. in San Juan Capistrano. The film’s premier will be followed by a question and answer session with Kline, who along with Stephanie Heredia, produced JFK Remembered: 50 Years Later, which premiered last November one day before the 50th anniversary of Kennedy’s assassination.

Tickets are $26. The documentary’s runtime is 90 minutes. Visit, www.regencymovies.com for tickets.

Free Flu Clinic Open to Public Nov. 1 To support wellness in the community as flu season approaches, the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians will host a free community flu clinic on Saturday, Nov. 1.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the best way to prevent influenza is to get vaccinated each year.

The CDC recommends all persons over 6 months of age get a yearly flu shot, and highlights that it is especially important for infants, young children, pregnant women and adults over 50.

The event will be held at Tribal Hall, located at 31411 Matanza St., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The clinic is open to all. For more

Seminar Sheds Light on Car Maintenance Local filmmaker and founder of the West Coast Film Festival, Robert Kline, will premiere his documentary The Reagans-The Lagacy Endures on Oct. 30 at Regency Theatre. Photo: Courtesy of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

information, call 949.488.3484.

Community sites in both Dana Point and San Clemente will offer vaccinations as well.

On Friday, Oct. 31, Saddleback Memorial Medical Center, 354 Camino Los Mares in San Clemente, will take walk-ins between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. For questions, call 949.489.4632. Walk-ins will also be taken at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo St. in Dana Point, on Tuesday, Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 949.463.4252 for more information.

Protect Yourself from Fraud, Identity Theft To combat instances of fraud and identity theft, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department is hosting two free presentations for seniors in hopes of preventing more people from becoming a victim of crime.

According to the National Crime Prevention Council, senior citizens are at high risk for being targeted by fraudulent scams than any other age group. Sheriff’s deputies are

trying to prevent this.

At the presentation, members of the public can learn how to deter, detect and defend so they can guard against becoming a victim of fraud or identity theft.

The San Juan Capistrano Police Department will hold the first presentation Wednesday, Nov. 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Another fraud seminar will be held Wednesday, Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. to noon. Both events will be held at the San Juan Community Center, located at 25925 Camino Del Avion.

Seating is limited. Call 949.493.5911 to reserve a spot.

St. Margaret’s to Offer Online Classes St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is one of two high schools in the nation chosen to participate in a global learning community through an online-educational platform founded by Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology known as edX. In 2015, St. Margaret’s will offer three

Star Motors is offering a free course Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to noon, to help attendees learn about proper vehicle maintenance.

This free seminar dubbed “Women & Wheels” seeks to give women confidence when dealing with auto repair shops and when performing maintenance themselves.

The course will cover a number of topics, including checking tire pressure, tread and oil; regular maintenance tips; the importance of “check engine” lights; maintenance requirements and more.

Star Motors has been certified as a female-friendly auto repair shop by askpetty. com, a company dedicated to making sure women receive fair treatment from auto and tire dealers and service companies.

The event at 32955 Calle Perfecto is open to all and includes breakfast and take-home goodie bags. Register online to emma@starmotos.com or call 949.443.1970.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more.

We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

FAULTING OPPONENTS REFLECTS POORLY ON CHARACTER Jane Schwanbeck, San Juan Capistrano

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.thecapistranodispatch.com

HOW TO REACH US

It was interesting to read the solutions that our eight council candidates had to offer on our current downtown city parking issues ... and the manner in which they expressed their thoughts.

Several stuck to the question and gave serious answers to possible solutions.

I was extremely disappointed in the others that used this as a political platform and opportunity to find fault with their fellow opponents. It says a great deal about their character and their ability to work with others. I will keep this in mind when I vote.

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

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

Supporters and opponents of the Laguna Glen Project at a recent meeting. Photo: Brian Park

HALTING SAN JUAN’S GROWTH IS NOT THE ANSWER Keith Sandrock, San Juan Capistrano

Having read letters from Shelly Bachelder and Jacqueline Scott in the Oct. 10-23 edition of The Capistrano Dispatch I have to respond to their opinions regarding the Laguna Glen project. In their letters, they complain about possible increases in traffic, water use and charge the City Council with helping a developer to make a profit.

First of all, I do not believe our council invited the private company to see an attractive opportunity to build a project that will benefit their bottom line. The constant blaming of the council of being in bed with entrepreneurs is ludicrous. For the most part, these men and women only want best for our community.

Look at history in surrounding communities. Example: San Clemente merchants fought for years against expansion fearing that the downtown would lose business.

After Talega was developed, the merchants of San Clemente have prospered as never before and tax revenue has helped the city immensely.

Regarding the re-zoning, agriculture land is for growing crops that produce food for a profit. The current area is not large enough for profitable farming. About the water use, it will take more water to farm the property than this new project.

They argue about the historical nature of our city. One, it has been historical.

Two, it is historical. Three, it will always be historical.

The downtown now consists of a beautiful mission, an old run down bar and a bunch of strip malls. Let’s get revenue to build a beautiful town. It can be accomplished.

Remember the large protest over open space? It left us with a vacant lot at the corner of La Novia and San Juan Creek

Road that is of no use to anyone. Let us take our heads out of the sand and stop hopping on Dana Point, Mission Viejo and San Clemente and grow a town of beauty and one we can all be proud of.

A VOTE FOR SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S FUTURE Sam Allevato, Mayor of San Juan Capistrano

All municipal elections are important as this is the closest relationship that the voting public has to its elected officials.

This coming election is especially important because there is a clear choice of voting for the continued, healthy recovery of our town or reverting to a simplistic approach of just saying “no” to everything as practiced by Councilman Derek Reeve and his two running mates—Pam Patterson and Kerry Ferguson.

With no help from Reeve or Councilman Roy Byrnes, the council majority, including: myself, John Taylor and Larry Kramer, has shown positive leadership by revitalizing our downtown, increasing our reserves to more than $10 million, cutting pension costs, reducing staff and the budget and, yet, governing a city with a low crime rate, abundant open space and real traffic improvements (i.e. Camino Capistrano, Ortega Interchange, and others, not just the empty rhetoric espoused by these three about doing nothing).

San Juan is truly at a crossroads. We now have long-time property owners that want to invest in our community and provide goods and services for our residents.

Are all these projects perfect? Of course not. I believe these property owners should be treated with due respect and not demonized as some kind of evil outside developer, as the home you live in was probably built by someone else.

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

Larry Kramer and John Taylor have taken the initiative to at least look at the possibilities—the pros and cons, benefits and costs—of bringing new vitality to our town by private investment. The private sector creates jobs and pays property and sales tax that then can be used to provide more police services, fire protection, paved roads and to keep our town healthy and growing, not lethargic and stagnant.

The opposition of Reeve, Patterson and Ferguson want you to simply accept “no.”

Reeve has consistently voted “no” to support after-school programs at the Boys & Girls Club, “no” to emergency electrical generation at City Hall, “no” to the dog park, Reata Park, etc., “no” to the Sheriff’s Department contract (because he can’t get a concealed weapons permit), “no” to providing clean drinking water to you and “no” to so many other items that it would fill this paper.

This complete lack of leadership and his “no’s” are never followed with constructive answers, only demonizing the council majority. Now, he wants you to follow him and his two tag-alongs with pushing our town towards blight and stagnation.

Reeve actually represented a group adverse to the interests of this city that sued the city and complained the majority has caused these lawsuits. This issue is currently being investigated by the state Attorney General’s Office, but I ask you— don’t you see a moral conflict of interest for someone to represent an organization that acts against the interest of the very city that he is sworn to protect?

Please don’t buy the misstatements, exaggerations and uninformed rhetoric of Reeve and his ilk. Vote for positive and responsible progress by voting for Taylor and Kramer this Nov. 4.

(Cont. on page 10)

Page 9

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@thecapistranodispatch.com BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@thecapistranodispatch.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Group Senior Editor, City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea Papagianis

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

ART/DESIGN SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Catherine Manso, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 12, Issue 20. 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

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 9)

TIME TO FIRE THE CITY COUNCIL ‘CLIQUE’ Roy Byrnes, San Juan Capistrano City Councilman In recent years, our City Council has been tightly controlled by three men—the “Allevato Group”—consisting of John Taylor, Larry Kramer and led by Mayor Sam Allevato. This has done considerable harm to San Juan, including massive legal costs, as the “ruling threesome” has spent time and money harassing and disenfranchising the two minority council members— Derek Reeve and me.

Our City Council was originally formed as a five-person deliberative body to express the views of citizens in a fair and equitable manner. In 2010, Taylor, Kramer and Allevato formed a solid-front group that has ruled the decision process with an iron fist. This clique of three now tightly controls the council. The results are not good and disastrous errors are the result.

The strength of our form of government lies in diversity of expression as five different analyses are brought to bear on problems facing our community. This has been corrupted into a three-man rigid orthodoxy from which dissent is banished. Citizens cry out for reform. It is necessary to refresh the mix of members on the council.

Are Taylor and Kramer bad people in any way? Of course not. Kramer has spent much of his life in our nation’s armed services. That is commendable. However, when faced with a contrary opinion on the City Council, his first instinct is to destroy the enemy. This is appropriate in combat but does not work in the civil discourse of a deliberative body where the objective is to work productively with people who have differing views.

I’ve always felt that election politics in San Juan should be neighborly and amateurish with nobody spending much money or hiring political consultants (political “scum bags”) to dig up dirt on opponents. I was appalled to observe that when Taylor and Kramer first ran for office they introduced a new form of hardcore, political campaigning to San Juan.

Each of these men spent over $50,000 to get elected with employment of professional political handlers who are skilled in manipulating the public.

This is all perfectly legal but it raises many questions. Why would two men spend over $100,000 for election to a City Council that pays $300 a month?

When a candidate asks donors for that amount of money, might the contributors expect something in return? When Taylor and Kramer devote tens of thousands of dollars to their campaigns, doesn’t that slam the door in the face of well-qualified people who can afford less for a political campaign? When does an “ample fund” turn into pay-for-play?

I urge that the bid for re-election by the “Allevato Group” be rejected. It is time for a change.

Don’t despair. And whatever you do, don’t forget to keep laughing. Vote—you

have six other choices.

SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT Pam Patterson, San Juan Capistrano An Oct. 8 Orange County Register article (“In San Juan Capistrano elections, how much do past transgressions matter?”) is misleading.

First of all, and most importantly, the reporter’s review of my California Bar membership status states: “This member has no public record of discipline.” Perhaps she missed or intentionally ignored the fact that not only is my membership status “in good standing.”

In fact, my recent admittance to the U.S. Supreme Court Bar requires certification by the California Supreme Court that I am an attorney in good standing. I believe this information is most relevant and should have been shared with OC Register readers, especially voters considering whom they should elect to their San Juan City Council.

The reporter sent this email after business hours Friday, Oct. 3, “I notice that your license to practice law has been suspended three times, twice for failing to pay bar association fees. Were you actively practicing law when the suspension occurred? Or were you on a break, which is why you hadn’t paid? Basically, I want to give you an opportunity to explain and provide any type of commentary you wish.”

But, the reporter apparently ignored the following response to her inquiry, which I sent to her early Monday, Oct. 6, “No, I was not actively practicing; I was a single mother of five and certainly doing my best to make ends meet, which was not easy.” I further indicated to the reported that, as a single mother, if given the choice between making payments for the welfare of my children or paying bar dues when I wasn’t practicing law at the time, my children’s welfare won. This response is not reflected in her article.

A review of the Bar website shows the years involved, 2005 to 2007, during which time I was a single mother of five and had a very sick little girl in the hospital. For most of that time and I was living at the hospital with her. Bar dues and keeping up with continuing education requirements was the farthest thing from my mind, especially since I was not practicing. My sole focus was keeping my daughter alive.

Having your bar license suspended for failing to pay your dues on time is like getting your phone turned off because you missed a payment. To describe that as “legal difficulties,” is close to defamatory. Further, the misrepresentation that I have been suspended four times, when the reporter’s review of the State Bar website reveals twice, simply for failure to pay dues, is a very large margin of error, even for a reporter.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pam Patterson is a candidate for San Juan Capistrano’s City Council.

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 Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

Page 10

Leading San Juan Forward

Council candidates make final pitch before voters hit the polls Nov. 4 the council majority-supported illegal tiered water rate increase of over 30%. The current water system is too expensive and is damaging our aquifer.

I will continue to fight and correct the intentional error of the council majority that created the downtown parking shortage and will instead provide for more parking in the downtown.

I will continue to fight red tape and fees on business including eliminating the business license tax.

I am endorsed and trusted, including by the Orange County Register.

Reeve is Right! Together, We Can Fight City Hall!

File photo

BY THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

n the Oct. 10-Oct. 23 edition of The Capistrano Dispatch, the eight candidates seeking three seats on the San Juan Capistrano City Council in the Nov. 4 election weighed in on downtown parking.

Candidates shared their thoughts on the issues at hand and provided solutions to problems they see.

For our fourth and final question, we asked the candidates:

Why should voters choose you to help guide San Juan Capistrano for the next four years?

Below are their responses, printed verbatim, in the order their names will appear on the ballot.

Jan Siegel, Community Volunteer I am a proven leader. I am fiscally conservative. I know that money must be spent to maintain our quality of life.

For the past 13 years I have served on the Cultural Heritage Commission making decisions for historic preservation and reasoned growth. I have a record of supporting our heritage, our equestrian life style and our village atmosphere.

As curator of Historical Society Museum and serving on the Board of Directors, I have celebrated the cultural diversity of our unique community.

As a 20 year docent for the Architectural Walking Tours in town, I understand what

brings people to visit our town.

As Chairman of the City’s 50th Anniversary of Incorporation, I provided leadership to the business community, schools, and the City on yearlong celebratory free events for residents and visitors.

As columnist for the Dispatch, my “Moments In Time” articles have given me the opportunity to appreciate our vast and diverse history.

Honored as the Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year, the City Volunteer of the Year, Mission Gala Honoree, I have shown that I have the experience, energy and ability to work with all groups within our community.

I appreciate your vote.

Derek Reeve, Councilman/Constitutional Attorney I am the only candidate with a proven record tenaciously fighting for taxpayers, everyday residents, and the constitutional rights of all. I have been honest and transparent about where I stand on issues, and have kept every campaign promise.

I am the most fiscally responsible councilman. I voted against every tax and fee increase and opposed incurring more debt and wasteful spending totaling approximately 20 million dollars.

I have fought for property rights, but oppose high density Spieker Development and Urban Village downtown hotel/residential project which will increase traffic, urbanize our town and strain our water resources.

I crusaded to remove San Juan Capistrano from the water business. I opposed

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

Pam Patterson, Constitutional Attorney/Businesswoman Experience Matters: I fight for what is right. I am a member in good standing of the US Supreme Court Bar; California State/Supreme Court Bars. I fight hard for those I represent, and in doing so, have climbed the ladder to the US Supreme Court protecting rights of children with disabilities.

Under my watch, your quality of life will be the priority.

Putting Residents First: Being causedriven versus money-driven, I represent children pro bono. I am keenly aware of Council members’ legal duty to our residents. I will restore much needed transparency which is presently lacking.

Will Work Tirelessly with Council Members and Up the Ladder: to restore our quality of life, reasonable water rates, and ease of getting through town.

Support General Plan: I will fight to preserve our small village-like community and open space for future generations; enhancing existing development by revitalizing older areas.

Pro-Business Platform: Revitalizing downtown while enhancing our unique historic community is the best way to stimulate local business. By fostering what makes us different, we can create a unique and superior retail experience, beautifying our community while improving quality of life; and make San Juan The Place to shop and dine in South County.

John Taylor, Businessman/Councilmember When I began my term four years ago, the recession had hit our downtown.

Thanks to our revitalization efforts, several new businesses have opened and our city is

Page 13

thriving.

We: • Reduced city staff • Renegotiated city pensions • Cut city expenses • Built our emergency cash reserves Every decision I make is for the benefit of ALL 35,000 residents -- not just the west side or eastside of town, and certainly not for a few vocal people who are “anti everything.” While they vote no on parks, on Boys & Girls Club, on school crossing guards, and increasing law enforcement – I vote YES because it’s best for our community.

A 25-year resident of the Los Rios District, I embrace our small town atmosphere and heritage. However, we still need to allow some development. The taxes generated pay for community services, public safety, maintain our streets, parks, and infrastructure. I will continue to make decisions on development based on what is good for everyone, while respecting property rights.

As a businessman, I approach government with the same principles as running a successful company. Your vote for me will ensure that a strong, levelheaded voice remains on our city council.

Robert Williams, Architect/Business Owner My decision to run for City Council was made after very careful discernment, and if elected, I promise to remember that I work for the residents of San Juan Capistrano. I care deeply about this community and want to preserve the town we all love.

I’ve been an architect for 30 years and truly understand how to bring about suitable development while maintaining and protecting San Juan’s character.

I gained invaluable experience as your Planning Commissioner and worked very hard to make decisions based solely on the needs of San Juan residents and this great town. My belief has and will continue to be based on thoughtful development that enhances our rural and historic community.

San Juan Capistrano is unlike any other Orange County city. We don’t want developers to dictate what our town needs - we know what we need. As your City Council member, I will never forget this important factor when considering future development.

I will work to the best of my ability to embrace, protect and enhance our unique character, rural-equestrian culture and (Cont. on page 14) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

(Cont. from page 13) rich history.

My campaign slogan says it best, “I have the experience you can trust.”

Stephanie Frisch, Independent Insurance Broker Some of my fellow candidates make promises that are completely unattainable and unrealistic without any real knowledge of the issues.

I hope you are able to see through this old campaign tactic of telling people what they want to hear to get votes and saying “no” to everything, regardless of the benefits to our city.

I am a leader who will challenge old ideas, find solutions to problems, listen to your concerns, and actively work on your behalf. I will focus on rebuilding our tax base, reducing congestion on our streets, and making decisions that benefit all residents. I’m not afraid to stand up to the bullies, and will fight to protect your personal property rights.

I’ll work to preserve our sense of community, cultural heritage and open space. The city must continue to support the groups responsible for preserving our historic and cultural heritage. Losing them would mean losing our sense of community. I believe we can have both -a vibrant town with a rural flavor.

If you want a council member who is honest, truthful, realistic, and will say “yes” to smart changes and solutions that will benefit the resident majority, vote for Frisch. www.StephanieFrisch.com Kerry Ferguson, Businesswoman/Educator San Juan residents expect Honesty, Leadership and Fiscal Responsibility from their elected officials. Our current Council Majority of Larry Kramer, John Taylor, and Sam Allevato have not been honest about our water problems, the impacts of over-sized developments on traffic, water and quality of life or about lawsuit settlements. I pledge to tell you the truth!

Our current leaders have failed to put your needs first when making decisions about “open space” and development.

They’ve given too much say to developers/special interests. I pledge to serve all residents!

Jan Siegel, Rob Williams and Stephanie Frisch say they want to protect the heritage of our city, but they have all said they would allow the Spieker/Laguna Glen project to move forward. Rob Williams said that as an architect, if he were against development, he’d be out of business. Jan Siegel supports both large Page 14

developments.

My background building successful retail stores, a wholesale business and as a teacher/program administrator has provided skill sets that will add vision and clarity to our community.

We can do better—I will!

Larry Kramer, Retired Submarine Captain There is a clear choice this year between those who look back and those who look forward.

While others vote against these basics, I support the Boys & Girls Club, school crossing guards, a school resource officer, our contract with county sheriff’s department, grants for water, roads and native plant restoration, more accessible and usable open space, gang intervention, downtown historic master plan, and participation in outside agencies.

I bring to the table: 1. Experience of four productive years on the City Council 2. Leadership skills developed in the United States Navy 3. Business skills managing civilian electric power plants for 10 years 4. Fair consideration of all sides 5. Active participation in the community 6. Independent fiscal conservative beliefs 7. Experience representing your interests on many outside agencies.

I support the interests of our residents and business community, make decisions based on proven facts, work to preserve our small town atmosphere, and conduct myself with integrity and transparency.

The choice is yours: stand with me and look forward with energy and optimism or vote for others who miss opportunities while always looking back.

The next four years can be great for San Juan Capistrano if we work together.

Stay with The Dispatch for ongoing coverage of the San Juan Capistrano City Council election.

We’ll be updating election results as they come in Nov. 4 online—at www.twitter. com/capodispatch, www.facebook.com/ capodispatch and www.thecapistranodispatch.com. And in our next issue, publishing Nov. 14, catch a full recap of city, county and state contests.

We also want to hear from you. Tell us what you think about the candidates’ answers by commenting online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com or on our Facebook page. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Meet the Candidates for State Assembly and Senate Races

Outgoing Supervisor Bates looking to move up to Senate seat, Dana Point Councilman Brough targets Assembly opening

BY JIM SHILANDER, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

outh County will choose new members of both the State Senate and State Assembly Nov. 4.

The 36th Senate district has been redrawn, after formerly being represented

by Mark Wyland, who is leaving the legislature.

Orange County Supervisor Pat Bates, who is termed out of her seat, is the Republican nominee. She is facing write-in candidate Gary Kephart, a former candidate in Assembly District 71 in 2010.

Dana Point City Councilman Bill Brough, a Republican, and Irvine college professor and attorney Wendy Gabriella are competing in the 73rd assembly district, where Diane Harkey is also termed out.

Brough, who formerly worked for Harkey, emerged as the top Republican vote getter from a crowded field during the June 3 primary.

Gabriella was the top overall vote getter by 55 votes, but was the only Democrat in the open primary. Their ballot statements are below: Wendy Gabriella Wendy Gabriella is a teacher, civil attorney, and 25 year resident of South Orange County.

As a career educator, she has witnessed how access to education provides a skilled workforce, contributes to job creation, and economic development.

Wendy Gabriella has worked tirelessly in the classroom for 30 years to promote academic excellence and prepare the next generation for the new economy.

Wendy Gabriella is a strong advocate for transparency in decision making at all levels of government.

As a civil attorney, Wendy specializes in the California Open Meeting Act and the First Amendment.

She believes that our Legislators should do more to foster open and transparent government at the state level.

If elected, Wendy Gabriella’s priorities will be: rebuilding a first rate education system, increasing access to affordable higher education, protecting South

County’s taxpayers by enforcing fiscal accountability, job creation, and preserving our valuable coastline.

Wendy Gabriella believes it’s time for South Orange County to send a career educator, not a career politician, to Sacramento.

Bill Brough Thank you for your vote of confidence in June. My wife and I know that the futures of all our children and grandchildren depend on the decisions made by legislators today.

With that in mind, I am running for State Assembly to promote a better tomorrow for all our families.

In the competition for businesses and jobs, California is losing to other states.

This is unacceptable and has to change.

As your assemblyman, I will fight to create a more competitive economic environment by simplifying our business, regulatory, and tax codes.

The Legislature ought to require from itself and from regulatory agencies a robust cost benefit analysis using recognized economic standards before imposing new costs on our businesses.

California has one of the nation’s highest tax rates and, yet, amongst the largest government debts.

We should demand that our government live within its means and learn to focus on necessities, including academically excellent schools, strong public safety and an efficient infrastructure for transportation, energy and water.

Sacramento needs problem solvers. On city council, I moved projects that had been stalled for years. We built public/ private partnerships that improved our business infrastructure without increasing taxes.

It is time that we demand performance from our lawmakers.

That is why I support the law that withholds legislators’ pay unless the budget is on-time and balanced.

Working together, we can bring back the gold to California. I would be honored to have your vote.

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

Page 15

Supervisor Candidates Look for South County Votes Ming, Bartlett, running to replace termed-out Bates

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

n the race for Orange County Fifth District Supervisor, Dana Point’s Mayor Lisa Bartlett and Laguna Niguel City Councilman Robert Ming are looking to replace Supervisor Pat Bates, who is terming out and making a run for the State Senate 36th District seat.

Both Ming and Bartlett are terming out of their city council seats after having served two consecutive four-year terms in their respective cities.

The county supervisor race is a top-two election format where, until the June 3 primary, four were in the running. Ming and Bartlett won their spots on the Nov. 4 ballot by beating Mission Viejo Councilman Frank Ury and county Deputy District Attorney Joe Williams.

The Fifth District includes the cities of San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano along with nine other south Orange County cities and a handful of unincorporated areas. Each of the county’s five districts elects one board member to a four-year term.

Ming and Bartlett were asked to answer the question: Why should voters choose you to represent them as Fifth District Supervisor?

Their answers are presented below in ballot order.

People often ask why I want to run for Orange County Supervisor. Simply stated, I’m a longtime resident of Orange County so I have a vested interest. I grew up here and built my life here. I want to ensure that we enhance and protect our quality of life for all of us now and for future generations.

I will be the fiscal watchdog at the county and make government run more efficiently. My degrees in finance and business plus my 15-plus years as a corporate executive and my tenure in regional board leadership positions, make me uniquely qualified to govern Orange County, the fifth largest county in America.

This race comes down to leadership and governance philosophy. I have served in leadership positions on several significant regional boards; my opponent has not. I have the track record and the leadership skills to work collaboratively with others to work through tough issues and achieve good policy solutions.

I am honored to have the endorsement of Congressman Darrell Issa, Marion Bergeson, former Secretary of Education and former O.C. Supervisor, as well as the majority of city elected officials in seven of the 11 cities in the 5th District. I am also proud to be endorsed by law enforcement and will work to keep our communities safe.

I would be honored to serve as your Orange County Supervisor of the 5th District and respectfully ask for your vote. www.LisaForSupervisor.com

Lisa Bartlett I am proudly serving as Mayor of Dana Point and know firsthand what it takes to lead as an elected official. Under my leadership on the Dana Point City Council we paid off our unfunded pension liability, achieve a balanced budget every year, maintain significant cash reserves and keep our city debt free. I created and implemented economic development programs for our businesses that also protected the taxpayers. In 2009, I created the Contract Cities Working Group to work directly with the Sheriff and 5th District Supervisor to ensure we have the very best program for community based policing resulting in a high level of public safety and efficiencies in resources and cost.

Robert Ming My wife Susie and I were at the Harbor a few weeks ago. Watching the ships during dinner at the Wind & Sea reminded me how truly blessed we are to live here, and how important this Supervisorial race is

for Dana Point.

As a two time Mayor of Laguna Niguel and an 8-year councilmember, I know what it means to do good government, and I know that I can’t serve you well unless I listen to you. That is exactly what I’ve been doing and though the issues are a little different, the process of getting to know people is the same.

Many people want to know how I’m (Cont. on page 17)

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

Page 16

CUSD Candidates on Why They Should Get your Vote Ellen Addonizio and Gila Jones competing for seat on board of trustees

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, THE CAPISTRNAO DISPATCH

I

n this election, only a small portion of the city will be voting for candidates running for Capistrano Unified School District Board.

Three seats are up for election—Trustee Areas 4, 6 and 7—but San Juan Capistrano voters will only be choosing between Area 6 candidates.

In Area 6, incumbent Ellen Addonizio is running against Gila Jones.

Addonizio and Jones answered the question: Why should San Juan Capistrano citizens cast a vote for you?

Their answers are below, presented unedited and in ballot order.

Ellen Addonizio I have worked to bring increased accountability to the school board for eight years. I will continue to demand the very best education for our students and innovation in our schools to benefit the students.

As a certified public accountant, I bring my 30 years of audit, forensic accounting and tax service experience to the school board. My understanding of long-range budgeting and cost accounting ensure that scarce education dollars actually benefit our children.

On the school board, I’ve consistently voted to: • Promote the highest possible academic achievement - I support teaching above the federally mandated minimum.

• Create school choice options for families - I voted to approve our charter schools and online schools.

• Reduce taxes - I worked with taxpayers to end the over taxation of Mello-Roos and supported refinancing bonds to lowered taxes throughout the school district.

• Make students our top priority in school district policy.

• Eliminate furlough days that shortchanged students.

• Reduce class sizes.

• Open our government process so the public can fully participate in our public schools.

I led the action and votes to: • Put board meeting agendas and budgets on the Internet.

• Create an audio record of school board meetings.

• End a board policy that limited speakers who address the school board to one time per year.

• End the board policy that required speakers to identify the school their chil-

dren attend.

As your school board representative, I voted against: • Pay increases to our employees while students were on reduced schedules.

• Offering retiring teachers a bonus that was funded by increasing class size.

With your vote, I’ll continue working tirelessly to bring positive change and increased accountability to CUSD, to hold the line in favor of our students – and always be accessible to you.

I respectfully ask for your vote on November 4. www.addonizio4cusd.com Gila Jones Every school district pushes for strong SAT/ACT scores and high percentages of college-bound students, but what about the Capistrano Unified graduates who choose not to go to college?

We must improve and expand our vocational education programs to prepare these students for entry-level jobs that can lead to well-paying professions. Our graduates who don’t choose college need training in fields in which they can start down a path toward earning enough to support themselves, and eventually to support a family and buy a home in South Orange County.

Furthermore, we must be sure to align these programs with local business and industry needs. According to the Orange County Business Council’s 2014-15 Workforce Indicators Report, the county’s top job-creating sectors include health care and construction. Although our District currently provides vocational classes in the health sciences, we have no offerings that can lead to jobs in construction. We need vocational courses that serve our students while also answering the needs of local industry.

Coursework for college-bound students must also be aligned with current and projected economic growth. Orange County is home to many technology-based businesses that have created a demand for workers with 2-year, 4-year, and graduatelevel degrees, and our schools must respond to that demand so these growing and profitable technology companies are motivated to maintain their operations in Orange County. Based on my own career in high-tech business in Orange County, I believe we can accomplish this most effectively by offering our college-bound students challenging STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) classes in addition to rigorous courses in

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

Page 17

written communication.

As a CUSD trustee, I will dedicate myself to ensuring that all our graduates are prepared to succeed in college, the workplace, Supervisor Candidates (Cont. from page 16) different than my opponent. So, I’ve selected a few examples of things she has done that I would have done differently.

I wouldn’t have voted for Dana Point’s plastic bag ban. It isn’t that I care less about the environment, but I believe there are better ways to solve the problem.

Fully biodegradable single use bags are already available. Good education helps people learn to make smart choices. The ban misses opportunities to teach and improve ourselves. We should have worked together to solve the problem without restricting people’s freedoms.

I also wouldn’t have voted for the Lantern District plan and then voted against funding it. As elected officials, we need to communicate clearly and not send mixed

or both. For more about my background and qualifications, visit www.gilajones.org.

messages. Instead, be clear, keep taxes and regulations low, and provide an excellent level of services. That’s what we’ve done in Laguna Niguel. That’s what I will do at the county.

What it really boils down to is leadership. For the Harbor Revitalization Plan to become a reality, it will take a strong Supervisor committed to seeing it through.

That’s what I’ll do, while focusing on the interests of boaters, harbor merchants and the recreational public users.

Fiscally responsible common sense leadership requires a real willingness to explore new ways of doing things and working together to solve problems.

That’s what I plan to deliver. I hope you will grant me the opportunity to serve. www.RobertMing.com

GETTING OUT

Restaurant Spotlight: Mission Grill

YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around San Juan COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 24 GHOST WALK TOURS 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Meet at the O’Neil Museum on Los Rios Street and embark on a ghost walking tour through old San Juan.

Tickets are $6. Reservations required.

Runs Oct. 24 and 25. 31831 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.8444, ghostwalk@sjchistoricalsociety.org.

Saturday | 25 INTERPRETIVE GARDEN WALK, TALK 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Learn about San Juan’s ranch history, California’s native plants, water conservation and more. Wear comfortable shoes for these 45 minute walks. Hosted by Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens. Reata Park, 28632 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, www.goinnative.net.

LOCAL AUTHOR READING, LECTURE 2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Join the SJC Writers Group for poetry, science fiction readings and more. San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

Sunday | 26 HALLOWEEN TERRIFYING 10-MILER 6:30 a.m. Run with views of wilderness, beach, ghosts and goblins in the 10-mile, 5K, 10K and half-mile kids runs. Costumes welcome. Salt Creek Beach Park, 33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.975.1812, www.renegaderaceseries.com.

TRICK-OR-TREAT PUMPKIN PARTY Noon–3 p.m. Kids 2 to 10 are invited to come dressed in their Halloween costumes for free trick-or-treating, a pumpkin patch and petting zoo at the Kaleidoscope. 27741 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo, www.gokaleidoscope.com.

Monday | 27 KID’S PICK MOMMY MOVIE MONDAYS 10 a.m. Parents are welcome to bring their young children to the show every Monday at Krikorian Theaters. 641 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7610, www.kptmovies.com.

BY SAMANTHA HAMMER

M

ission Grill sits in the historic heart of the city, where visitors and locals enjoy a delicious dining experience with a perfect view of the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano. Steps away are the Los Rios Historic District and the San Juan Capistrano train depot.

Owner John Gillotti is a fourth generation restaurateur with success built on his personal philosophy providing superior guest services, serving natural delicious foods and offering a comfortable dining experience.

“It takes years of thought, education, working knowledge and the right people to create the complete package for success,” Gillotti said.

Mission Grill offers homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily with an American-Mexican mix of specialties that have been created through Gillotti’s joy for cooking. To add splendor to his establishment, he invited a local celebrity chef Rahm Fama from the Ritz Carlton to provide instruction in nouvelle cuisine techniques and inspire creativity in his kitchen staff.

From the gorgonzola bacon burger and chorizo burger to calamari or salmon tacos, menu choices run from traditional to innovative. Speaking of traditional, Mission

Wednesday | 29 DANCE AGAINST CANCER 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Join in a dance against cancer that helps fund pediatric cancer research. Held in the Saddleback College Quad. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, www.saddleback.edu.

Thursday | 30 READ TO A DOG 3 p.m. Children can practice their reading skills by sharing tales with certified therapy dogs. San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/ libloc/sjc.

Friday | 31 THREE CHORD JUSTICE 8:30 p.m. Partake in Halloween fun as Three Chord Justice takes the stage.

Costumes encouraged. The Swallow’s Inn, 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, www.swallowsinn.com.

and Spanish at the San Juan Capistrano Library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

Saturday | 01 ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR 10 a.m. Take a guided tour of San Juan Capistrano’s historic adobes, Spanish-era dwellings and modern buildings. Held each Saturday. Meet at the train depot on Verdugo Street. $5 donation. www.sjcfol.org.

Friday | 07 FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7 p.m. Support the librar y the first Friday of each month while watching a film in La Sala Auditorium. $2 donation.

31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

Sunday | 02 TOUR DE COOP 9 a.m. Chicken lovers and the coop curious can take a self-guided bike tour of backyard chicken coops. Free. Open to all ages. Biking encouraged but cars are OK. Check in at 9 a.m. at Anneliese School: Willowbrook Campus, 20062 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, www.seedsed.org/lbtourdecoop.

WORTH THE DRIVE

Saturday | 08 SECOND SATURDAY ART & ANTIQUE FAIR 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Peruse art, crafts and antiques at this monthly fair in historic, downtown San Juan Capistrano. Vendors set up throughout downtown and along Los Rios Street. Call the Chamber of Commerce for more information. 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

Wednesday | 05 NETWORKING BREAKFAST 7:30 a.m.–9 a.m. Visit The Vintage Steakhouse for breakfast with the Chamber of Commerce. $15 for members, $25 for nonmembers. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

FAMILY STORYTIME 11:30 a.m. Bring the entire family for stories and rhymes in both English

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

EDITOR’S PICK HANDMADE: A MAKER’S MARKET 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Celebrate local artisans as the region’s emerging artists showcase one-of-a-kind crafts, from custom furniture and apparel to wildflower arrangements.

Free. The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www. theecologycenter.org.

Page 19

An avocado bacon cheeseburger with sweet potato fries served at Mission Grill. Courtesy photo

Grill is a great place to enjoy Mexican specialties such as menudo and posole.

Shaded umbrella tables overlooking the hills of San Juan Capistrano offers a perfect outdoor setting for the enjoyment of hand crafted cocktails, beer, wine and dessert specials served daily.

A kids’ menu and custom catering are also available.

31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.8055, www.missiongrillsjc.com PRICE RANGE: $2.50 - $8.25 PAYMENT ACCEPTED: Cash, credit cards HOURS: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday | 09 HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. Take a docent-led, 1.5-hour tour of San Juan Capistrano with the Historical Society. Visit adobes built in the 1790s and take a stroll down Los Rios Street. Meet at the train depot platform. $2 donation for adults, $1 for children. 949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

Wednesday | 12 DOWNTOWN SJC 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.

Thursday | 13 SADDLEBACK CONCERT SERIES 1 p.m. Traditional blues duo the Sheriffs of Schroedingham perform in the music department’s concert series. Free.

Concerts held in Fine Arts Room 101 and the McKinney Theatre. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

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

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

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Fiesta Association Names Swallows Dignitaries

T

he Fiesta Association officially announced their choice of junior and senior dignitaries for the 2015 Fiesta de las Golondrinas season at the nonprofit’s annual barbecue on Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Reata Park and Event Center.

Tom Scott and Beverly Blake, the president and vice president of the El Camino Real Playhouse, respectively, who will mark their 25th year of volunteering for the Fiesta Association, were named Senor San Juan and Ms. Fiesta.

Joining Scott and Blake are junior dignitaries, and dedicated volunteers, Eduardo

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

Keep Ex Out of Early Dates Dwelling on previous relationships is never a good sign

Melo, 15, and Alexandra Gonzales, 14. Both teens volunteer with Great Opportunities, a nonprofit that introduces underprivileged, local children to an aquatic environment by providing swim, surf and stand-up paddleboard lessons.

Dignitaries serve for one year. The Fiesta Association is an all-volunteer organization that hosts events throughout San Juan Capistrano’s Fiesta de las Golondrinas season, such as the Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire, set for March 21. CD —Andrea Swayne

T

his week, a friend in her late 50s came to my Dana Point deli and asked for my opinion about a situation she’s encountered with a man she recently met online. She said, “He seems nice, but on the three dates we’ve had together, he has mentioned his ex-wife’s name at least 50 times.

“And, when I am talking or making a comment, before I have finished my point, he interrupts and will start on an entirely new subject. Is this normal?”

She said she has been reluctant to mention these two points to him, not wanting to hurt his feelings and perhaps jeopardize the relationship.

I told her that maybe the guy is just nervous, and doesn’t know what else to talk about. Or, perhaps he is a poor conversationalist or too into himself. A male friend of mine who has ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) suggested the man may have that. Whatever the case, the man likely is unaware he is doing these things. I told my deli friend if she wants a relationship with him, she needs to bring this to his attention.

I can relate to how she feels. I dated a widow who often mentioned her deceased husband. “George did this or George did that,” she’d frequently say. At times, she called me “George.” I empathized with her and didn’t mention this for quite some time. But being called “George” reminded me of a song that Jesse Colter—the widow of the late Waylon Jennings—made popular in 1975, titled, “I’m not Lisa.”

The song’s beginning: “I’m not Lisa.

“My name is Julie.

“Lisa left you years ago.”

I finally worked up the nerve to tell the widow that she was mentioning George too much. After the talk, although I wasn’t George as often, I was still George

often enough. When she introduced me to friends a few times as George, I moved on.

One of the problems with someone talking too much about his or her ex is it makes the new person feel unimportant ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 or second best. For a new

By Tom Blake relationship to thrive, each person needs to make the other a high priority because each person wants to feel special. He may not have that capability.

When a person is constantly reminded of a new beau’s ex, it sends a message that the new beau hasn’t healed or gotten over the ex. It’s likely too soon for that person to be dating.

My deli friend needs to talk with the guy. I hope she doesn’t judge him too soon before he’s had a chance to think about it and change. He might turn out to be a good match for her.

Still, her name isn’t Lisa.

The last Age 50-plus singles Meet and Greet for 2014 is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 30, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point. Carl the DJ will be spinning the oldies. Halloween costumes optional. For information, contact Tom at 949.248.9008. www.tutorandspunkys.com.

Tom Blake is a San Clemente resident and Dana Point business owner who has authored three books on middle-aged dating.

For dating information: www.FindingLoveAfter50.com. To comment: 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 Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

Clockwise from the top: Local youth volunteers, Alexandra Gonzales, 14, and Eduardo Melo, 15, will serve as the Fiesta Association’s junior dignitaries during the upcoming Fiesta de Las Golondrinas season. Beverly Blake and Tom Scott will serve as Ms. Fiesta and Señor San Juan. David Faylor holds the roasted pig head and Deborah Valgean gives it a kiss. Photos: Andrea Swayne

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

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 20

See today’s solution in next week’s issue.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

FITNESS EQUIPMENT PILATES REFORMER Black Aero pilates reformer. Folds up for easy storage. Great workout at home. $175.

949.533.9761

GARAGE SALES CAPO BEACH COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Multi home community sale with participating homes on Via Catalina, Via Verde, Via California, Camino Capistrano, and the lower part of Via Sacramento. Sale 7am-1pm.

October 25

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@thecapistranodispatch.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

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

After-Hours Electric

Excel Electric

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

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

Excel Electric - CA #793860

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

HOME ORGANIZATION

Karen Fischer, Professional Organizer, Get Organized and Move!

949.355.3487, www.getorganizedandmove.com

MOLD REMOVAL

Jarvis Restoration

31942 Paseo Sagrado, 949.362.5388, www.jarvisrestoration.com

PHOTO & DIGITAL LAB

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

PLUMBING

Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com

JEWELER

Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design

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

Ca Lic #697355 714.396.2188, 949.573.8386, www.bbb.org The Capistrano Dispatch October 24–November 13, 2014

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

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

Page 21

SCHOOLS

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

TILE & STONE INSTALLATION/ RESTORATION

Yorba Linda Tile & Marble, Inc.

714.757.3490, CA License #789312 www.yorbalindatilemarble.com

WATER DAMAGE

Jarvis Restoration

31942 Paseo Sagrado, 949.362.5388, www.jarvisrestoration.com

WOMEN’S CLOTHING & HANDBAG BOUTIQUE

Dress Well Boutique

33712 Calle Miramar, 949.922.8044, www.DressWellBoutique.com

LIST LOCALS ONLY

USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year.

View online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

St. Margaret’s Head Coach Rod Baltau Resigns

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

t. Margaret’s Episcopal School announced last week that head football coach Rod Baltau has resigned, citing medical reasons for his departure.

Baltau, who has guided the Tartans to four league titles in his tenure, had been on medical leave since the beginning of the school year, according to athletic director Susie Maga.

St. Margaret’s has appointed longtime defensive coordinator Stephen Barbee as the interim head coach for the remainder of the 2014 season. Barbee has been a member of the Tartans coaching staff the past four years.

“We are grateful for coach Barbee’s willingness and confident in his ability to lead the team for the remainder of what has already proved to be a rewarding and successful season for our studentathletes,” Maga said via email.

St. Margaret’s has been a formidable small school team since Baltau took over for Harry Welch, who left to coach at Santa Margarita, in 2010. Under Baltau, the Tartans have compiled a 40-11 overall

St. Margaret’s head football coach Rod Baltau addresses the team during a practice in 2013. Photo: Steve Breazeale

record. Last season, the team appeared in the CIF-SS East Valley Division championship game, where they lost to Jurupa Hills.

The Tartans are 7-0 on the season, including a 2-0 record in Academy League play. They will play Crean Lutheran at home on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. CD

San Juan Prep Roundup COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he high school fall prep sports season is winding down and the playoffs are on the horizon. We take a look around the city to highlight teams poised to finish strong and make a run in the postseason.

SAN JUAN HILLS HIGH SCHOOL The San Juan Hills girls cross country team placed ninth in the Division 2 varsity race at the Orange County Championships at Irvine Regional Park on Oct. 18.

Junior Katie Camarena placed sixth in the race with a time of 18:55.

The boys team had a strong showing in the Division 2 race, placing fi fth.

ST. MARGARET’S EPISCOPAL As of Oct. 23, the St. Margaret’s girls volleyball team was 6-2 in Academy League play and on the verge of making the postseason for a ninth consecutive season. The Tartans (17-3, 6-2 league) have lost twice to league rival Sage Hill and will need help from other teams down

the stretch if they are to finish in first.

Three more league games will prepare the Tartans for postseason play.

JSERRA CATHOLIC The JSerra girls cross country team finished fourth in the varsity sweepstakes at the Orange County Championships on Oct. 18. Senior Ashley Geisler was the Lions highest finisher, coming in 18th overall.

The boys cross country team finished seventh in the sweepstakes race at the Orange County Championship. The team was led by junior Andrew Burkhardt’s eight-place finish (14:58).

SADDLEBACK VALLEY CHRISTIAN The Warriors girls volleyball team has had a stellar season and as of Oct. 23, are owners of a 20-5 overall record, including a perfect 6-0 record in San Joaquin League play.

The Warriors have only three games remaining on their schedule and are currently ranked No. 1 in the CIF-SS Division 3A polls. CD

The Capistrano Dispatch October 24-November 13, 2014

Page 22

SJC LIVING

San Juan Hills senior quarterback Patrick O’Brien passed for 256 yards and three touchdowns against El Toro on Oct. 1. Photo: Steve Breazeale

El Toro Outlasts San Juan Hills in Wild Shootout

BY STEVE BREAZEALE , THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

an Juan Hills and El Toro battled on Oct. 17 in a South Coast League shootout. The two team’s quarterbacks combined for 603 yards passing and running backs piled up 511 total rushing yards. When the dust settled, it was El Toro that emerged with a 75-56 win.

The game was close for the first three quarters. After staying within one score of each other all night, El Toro running back Kaleb Fossum scored on a five-yard run to give the Chargers a 41-28 lead, the first two-score advantage of the night, two minutes into the third.

In a flurry of offense, 34 points were scored in the second quarter alone.

Chargers (6-2, 1-1 league) junior defensive end Blake Morentin intercepted Stallions (3-4, 0-1) quarterback Patrick O’Brien, leaping at the line of scrimmage to reel in the ball, and gave El Toro the ball with a chance to break a 14-14 tie.

But on the first ensuing offensive play, El Toro quarterback Trey Tinsley was pressured and fumbled. The Stallions recovered and quickly drove downfield and scored in three plays. O’Brien hit senior tight end Christopher Barys for an 8-yard score to take a 21-14 lead.

El Toro tied things up less than two minutes later on a touchdown pass from Tinsley to senior receiver Taylor Dodds.

The Stallions responded three minutes later with a four-yard O’Brien touchdown run.

After another El Toro score, and a failed point-after attempt, the Chargers defense finally made a stop and forced a punt. They promptly scored again on a 30 yard pass from Tinsley to Fossum to take a 34-28 lead into the half.

The pace was furious, as two teams Page 24

who like to run up-tempo offenses jostled for position.

“In terms of playing the game, obviously we wish we would’ve played a little bit better on defense. But our kids battled. That’s all I asked of them. But at the same time I told them, we were pretty undisciplined tonight,” San Juan Hills head coach Aaron Flowers said.

Stallion senior running back Mike Miscione was a difference maker, rushing for 132 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries. Miscione scored his second and final score of the night on a six-yard run that cut into El Toro’s lead, 55-49, but that would be the closest the Stallions would get the rest of the night.

Fossum proved to be a complimentary piece to El Toro’s aerial attack, running the ball out of the wildcat and taking direct snaps in the red zone. Fossum only rusged for 39 yards on the ground, but he had four rushing touchdowns and one receiving score. Fossum scored twice in the fourth quarter to pad El Toro’s lead.

Tinsley completed 23 of 34 passes for 347 yards and four touchdowns. O’Brien completed 29 of 37 passes for 256 yards, three touchdowns and an interception.

IN OTHER AREA FOOTBALL NEWS JSerra Catholic battled with state No. 1 St. John Bosco in a Trinity League matchup on Oct. 17, but the Braves outlasted the Lions in a 49-44 win.

JSerra (6-1, 2-1) held a 24-21 advantage at halftime. St. John Bosco (6-1, 3-0) took the lead in the third and both teams erupted on offense in the fourth. But the Braves outscored the Lions 21-20 in the final 12 minutes to seal the win and remain the team to beat in league.

JSerra will travel to play Mater Dei at the Santa Ana Bowl on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Following the Death of His Son, Ivan Melo Returns to Lead on the Field

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

outh Orange County’s soccer fields were the places Ivan Melo and his son, Matthew, called their home away from home.

Matthew, a freshman at Capistrano Valley High School, was a gifted player who competed on club teams and AYSO squads his whole life. Ivan was a permanent presence on the field, picking up his son every day after school to take him to practice. On weekends, Ivan coached Matthew’s AYSO Region 87 U16 team in San Juan Capistrano, where, from the sidelines, he had the perfect vantage point to watch his son’s blossoming soccer career take off.

On Oct. 4, Matthew Melo, 14, along with his Region 87 U16 teammate Alex Sotelo, 14, died in a car crash coming home from Knott’s Berry Farm. Melo, of Mission Viejo, and Sotelo, of San Juan Capistrano, along with three other passengers, perished when the vehicle they were in careened out of control on Interstate 5 near the 133 toll road. The vehicle went off the freeway and ended up on an embankment where it caught fire, killing everyone on board, except for the unlicensed 16-year-old driver.

The news of Matthew Melo and Alex Sotelo’s deaths shook the AYSO Region 87 community.

The two boys had played in the league for years and were known to be standout players. Matthew Melo was a talented striker and Sotelo, a speedy team player.

They were two players who “played the right way”, according to AYSO Region

(Above) The Sotelo and Melo families are joined by the AYSO Region 87 U16 soccer team on the field before a game on Oct. 11. Photo: Steve Breazeale (Below) Ivan Melo, left, spoke with friends and family members following his return to the sidelines on Oct. 11. Photo: Nicholas Bhardwaj

87 commissioner Ajay Bhardwaj. Their teammate, Carlos Valladares, likened their skills to soccer stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The boys’ abilities grew to new heights under the guidance of Ivan Melo, who has long been a coaching fixture at the Sports Park in San Juan Capistrano.

Every season, parents clamored for their boys to join Team Melo. Aside from his skills as a coach on the field, Ivan is known for creating a family atmosphere, as his teams took trips to watch Major League Soccer’s Chivas USA and attend regular weekend barbecues.

“Our team, we all genuinely care about each other. The sense that the boys get, they come back season after season wanting to play for coach Melo,” team mom Kimberley Harden said.

On Oct. 11, Melo decided to make his return to the sideline to coach the U16 team his son, and Sotelo, loved so much.

Hundreds gathered at the Sports Park to

pay tribute to the boys and offer support to the Melo and Sotelo families.

Teammates showed up to the game wearing white shirts with personal messages honoring their fallen friends. Matthew Melo and Alex Sotelo’s names were adorned on every shirt, along with their numbers and expressions like “We will miss you” displayed across the chest.

When it came time for the team to play against the U16 team from San Clemente, only nine players from San Juan took the field instead of the customary 11. Melo and Sotelo’s jerseys were placed in the player’s usual positions, both at midfield, until the whistle blew and they were subbed out.

“I thought it was really emotional today because we lost Melo and Sotelo. We were all buddies. It’s really sad not to play with them anymore,” Valladares said.

During the game, Ivan Melo felt the absence of his son and Sotelo instantly. Out of habit, he would think to call for the two boy’s names, but snapped back to reality when he realized they weren’t there.

Ivan Melo’s decision to come back and coach the team was not easy. It was the outpour of emotion and support in the days following his son’s death that ultimately pushed Ivan to return to the field.

“It’s overwhelming, the people coming to my house … These are boys that have played since U6, U8 against each other.

No matter how much older they get, we’re just not a team, we’re a family,” Ivan Melo said. “It was pretty moving. We were really touched.”

Sandra Sotelo, Alex’s sister, said her family also felt the community’s love during the pregame ceremony, when both families were given their son’s soccer jersey.

“It just touched our heart to know that there were so many people here for him that knew how good he was,” Sandra Sotelo said.

Ivan Melo will continue on as the U16 team’s head coach.

AYSO Region 87 has set up a memorial scholarship in each player’s name.

Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to two players each fall season. The region has also set up memorial donation accounts for each of the five teenagers involved in the crash. Go to www.ayso87.org for more information. CD