October 9, 2015

INSIDE: This Month’s South County Real Estate Guide PAGE 11

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

OCTOBER 9–22, 2015 • VOLUME 13, ISSUE 19

Back in the Saddle Annual Shea Center BBQ & Family Faire raises more than $1 million for therapeutic equestrian programs E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 7

Shea Center rider Emilia Brown-Brennan performed several tricks while riding in front of a crowd at the center’s BBQ & Family Faire Sept. 26.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

City Council Discusses Regulating Group Homes EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

The Vintage Impresses with Culinary Delights SJC LIVING/PAGE 18

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SVC Beach Volleyball Team Makes Playoff Run SPORTS/PAGE 22

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

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

filed an appeal regarding decisions that were made by the Housing Advisory Committee, which City Attorney Jeff Ballinger said will likely be heard by the City Council separately on Oct. 20.—AJ

Coastal Commission Approves SONGS Dry Cask Storage

Five things San Juan should know this week City Council Discusses Impact of Group Homes THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council discussed on Tuesday some of the negative impacts residents say group homes are having on their neighborhoods as well as current and potential actions regarding the regulation of such homes.

Councilwoman Kerry Ferguson agendized the discussion after meeting with a group of about 20 residents and hearing about the adverse impacts some group homes have been causing, including parking issues and increased traffic, noise and loitering. Ferguson noted that those impacts are diminishing the quality of life for residents while also decreasing property values.

Councilman Sam Allevato concurred with Ferguson, noting that cities like San Clemente and Dana Point have also been experiencing problems with group homes. Allevato said Assemblyman Bill Brough, whose office is based in San Juan Capistrano, has appointed him as the San Juan representative on a tri-city committee, alongside Dana Point Mayor Carlos Olvera and San Clemente City Councilwoman Kathy Ward, to discuss legislative solutions at the state level. Allevato said they will be holding town hall meetings in the tri-city area in the future.

WHAT’S NEXT: With a unanimous motion, the council directed city staff to work with the city attorney to bring back various options for regulating group homes on Oct. 20. Those options will include looking into a moratorium on new group homes.

In August, the city of San Clemente extended a 45-day moratorium to 10 months in order to provide more time for staff to examine issues surrounding sober living homes. Since then, the city has filed lawsuits against several facilities, alleging that companies have violated the city’s municipal codes.—Allison Jarrell

La Novia Avenue/Valle Road Roundabout Moves Forward THE LATEST: A roundabout is officially on its way to the intersection of northbound Interstate 5, La Novia Avenue and Valle Road following approval at Tuesday’s City The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

A view of El Nido Mobile Estates. A City Council hearing of the mobile home park’s recent rent increase is scheduled for Oct. 26. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Council meeting.

Developer LV Pacific Point LLC—the successor developer for multiple land parcels within the Pacifica San Juan development—is required by California Environmental Quality Act regulations to design and construct mitigation measures to combat the additional traffic the development will produce, including at the specified intersection. At buildout, Pacifica San Juan will add 416 residential units, and to date, 98 of those building permits have been issued, according to city staff.

On June 3, 2014, the City Council approved the roundabout proposal, and on Sept. 8, 2015, Planning Commission passed its recommendation on to the City Council to adopt the project’s mitigated negative declaration.

WHAT’S NEXT: With the council’s approval of the mitigated negative declaration, construction on the single-lane roundabout can start as early as February 2016, according to city staff. City Engineer George Alvarez said construction will take about nine months and will include some closures. Alvarez said the city will do extensive outreach to the community and impacted businesses in November.—AJ

City Encourages Further Water Conservation THE LATEST: The city of San Juan Capistrano reemphasized in a press release last week that statewide emergency water conservation regulations, in addition to the city’s water conservation ordinance, prohibit water runoff to the street.

“On routine water patrols conducted throughout our city, a common observation is lawn or landscape overwatering and water runoff to the storm drains,” the city’s release stated. “Generally, overwatering

creates runoff from the water that flows from lawns, yards and other landscaped areas into street gutters which affects public health and impacts ecosystems.”

City officials are asking residents to water lawns and gardens wisely by checking sprinklers and looking out for runoff that may be reaching the street or storm drains.

To avoid overwatering, officials recommend watering slowly, deeply and less frequently; timing sprinklers to prevent puddles or streams and applying mulch.

Residents are reminded to only water between 6 p.m. and 9 a.m. on their two scheduled watering days, and to not water during rainfall or within 48 hours after rainfall by manually turning off irrigation systems.

WHAT’S NEXT: For more information, contact the city at 949.234.4400 or sjcconserve@sanjuancapistrano.org.—AJ

El Nido Mobile Estates Rent Hearing Rescheduled THE LATEST: The City Council’s El Nido Mobile Estates Rent Hearing, which was initially scheduled for a special meeting on Oct. 5, is now set for a council meeting on Oct. 26.

The city’s Housing Advisory Committee, which met on Sept. 16, agreed unanimously with city-appointed hearing officer Michael Roush’s August ruling that mobile home park owner Richard Worley’s rent increase of $641 a month “is not proper” and the City Council “should reverse the rent increase to no lower than the maximum allowable increase” under the city’s rent control ordinance. The increase more than doubled the rent of some residents effective Sept. 1.

WHAT’S NEXT: Following the committee’s September meeting, Worley’s attorneys

Page 3

THE LATEST: The California Coastal Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to approve the permit for Southern California Edison to store spent nuclear fuel in drycask storage on site at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station.

The commissioners, as well as dozens of people in attendance, agreed the longterm solution to storing the fuel on the coastline is not ideal, until the Department of Energy commits to a permanent storage facility the additional cask storing will be necessary. Songs already has aboveground dry storage as well as wet storage of the fuel in storage tanks.

The new dry-cask storage units, contracted through Holtec International, will hold about 3.6 million gallons of spent nuclear fuel. SCE representatives said they need about 80 additional canisters in order to store the fuel at the facility.

During the discussion, commissioner Mary Shallenberger said the original permit that required an inspection of the storage in 20 years would be too long to wait before examining any possible deficiencies.

Many people who spoke against the plan wanted SCE to postpone the decision and continue to ask the DOE for a permanent storage site outside of Orange County or the California coast rather than enter a 20-year agreement in which, they said, the fuel could remain at SONGS in perpetuity.

Commissioner Roberto Uranga said inaction would be worse than any action, as the scope of the project is massive and long-term.

WHAT’S NEXT: The permit agreement comes with a contingency. SCE will be required to have a thorough report and inspection of the technology by 2022, five years after the expected storage would be initiated and the first phases of the deconstruction of SONGS. Additionally, commissioners voted to send a letter to the DOE Secretary Ernest Moniz urging a solution for permanent spent fuel storage.

Officials said they have spoken with facilities in Texas and New Mexico for possibly storying the spent fuel, but the DOE has the final decision.

Rep. Darrell Issa, R-California, 49th District, co-sponsored the Consolidated Storage Act bill, which was introduced last week. The bill would locate regional areas for potential interim storage of spent nuclear fuel.—Eric Heinz www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Regional and local community leaders gather for a photo following an Oct. 1 ceremony celebrating the completion of the I-5/Ortega Highway Interchange. Photo: Allison Jarrell

South County Officials, Community Celebrate Completion of Interchange Following conclusion of Interstate 5/Ortega Highway construction, community leaders hope for economic rebound

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

fter roughly two and a half years of construction, improvements to the Ortega Highway Interchange at Interstate 5 in San Juan Capistrano finally opened to traffic on Sept. 4.

On Thursday, Oct. 1, South Orange County officials, leaders from Caltrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority, and scores of community members gathered to celebrate the completion of the $77.2 million improvement project, which aims to create a seamless bridge transition for daily commuters, lessen vehicle emissions and reduce commute time.

Work led by Caltrans and OCTA began in February 2013 to reconfigure and wid-

en the roadways in an effort to alleviate traffic. The finished project incorporates San Juan’s Spanish architectural style with colored concrete on the new bridge and hand-painted textured retaining walls.

Improvements to the interchange include: • A reconstructed Ortega Highway bridge over the I-5 freeway, widened with additional turn lanes and through lanes • Widening of the existing north and south I-5 on- and off-ramps • Construction of a northbound loop on-ramp to the I-5 freeway • Realignment of Ortega Highway west of the I-5 interchange, curving the road into Del Obispo rather than continuing straight into Camino Capistrano

• Realignment of Del Obispo street west of the interchange, eliminating the need for two intersections and streamlining it with one intersection and one traffic signal Speakers at the Oct. 1 bridge dedication included Sen. Patricia Bates, 36th District; Assemblyman Bill Brough, 73rd District; Lisa Bartlett, Orange County Supervisor, 5th District; San Juan Capistrano Mayor Derek Reeve and officials from Caltrans, OCTA and the California Department of Transportation.

Joyce Stanfield Perry of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation and Rev. Monsignor J. Michael McKiernan, pastor of the Mission Basilica/ Mission San Juan Capistrano, blessed the bridge at the beginning and end of the ceremony.

Mayor Reeve said he was excited for the completion of the project, which he described as a stressful process.

“I can tell you from experience, there was a lot of sweat in the council chamber during this process and quite a bit of chills as well,” Reeve said.

Each speaker emphasized the importance of collaboration during the project, and during his speech, Reeve thanked former City Council members Tom Hribar and Laura Freese, former mayors Larry Kramer and John Taylor, Caltrans and OCTA staff, city staff, Sen. Bates, Assemblyman Brough, Supervisor Bartlett and the residents of San Juan Capistrano.

“Without those people … this entire process would have been much worse,” Reeve said.

Assemblyman Brough, whose office is based in San Juan Capistrano, emphasized the importance of the improved interchange to Orange County’s infrastructure as a whole.

“This project isn’t about concrete, asphalt and rebar. It’s an important network in our transportation system, to get people who live in San Juan Capistrano to school, to work, to restaurants, to businesses and to destinations like the playhouse and the Mission,” Brough said. “With every new interchange, traffic flow has been increased in the city of San Juan Capistrano; we often come off the freeway to go home to Dana Point, and it’s a lot easier

I-5/ORTEGA HIGHWAY INTERCHANGE FUNDING SOURCES State Transportation Improvement Program $42.7 million Corridor Mobility Improvement Act $24.1 million Regional Improvement Program $2.8 million Measure M sales tax $2.5 million County of Orange $3.2 million City of San Juan Capistrano $1.8 million Total Project Cost $77.2 million

Assemblyman Bill Brough speaks about the importance of the interchange project to San Juan Capistrano residents, as well as Orange County’s infrastructure as a whole. Photo: Allison Jarrell

to cut down Del Obispo now than it was previously.”

Brough encouraged attendees to stay awhile in San Juan and help in the economic recovery that city officials are hoping for. During the two and a half years of construction, local businesses took a hit as more commuters chose to skip over the Ortega Highway exit.

“Finally, I would like to welcome you to not rush away immediately from this,” Brough said at the end of his speech.

“There are a lot of good restaurants and shops here in San Juan Capistrano; spend some time down here.” CD

EYE ON SJC

Hit-and-Run Victim Remembered by Friends as Upbeat, Avid Skateboarder Nineteen-year-old Laguna Niguel man pleads not guilty to felony hit-and-run charge

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

C

esar Andres Medina, known as Andy by friends and family, was crossing Del Obispo Street on his skateboard last Friday night when he was fatally hit by a truck. Witnesses told authorities that the faded black pick-up truck continued southeast on Del Obispo following the crash.

The hit-and-run collision occurred around 10:10 p.m. on Oct. 2 at the cross street of Paseo Carolina, according to Orange County Sheriff’s Department officials. Medina, a 23-year-old who was born and raised in San Juan Capistrano, was treated at the scene before being transported by paramedics to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo. Medina was pronounced dead at 10:45 p.m. as a result of his injuries, according to authorities.

On Saturday, Oct. 3, Medina’s family and friends gathered at a memorial created at the corner of Del Obispo Street and Paseo Carolina. Toward the midnight hour, several friends remained at the site of the crash, including Lilia Gutierrez, a former classmate.

“It’s still not hitting me. It’s still so unreal,” Gutierrez said, her face illuminated by dozens of candles lining the sidewalk.

“There are no words to describe this.”

One friend mentioned that Medina’s sister, Jenifer, had been working at Mission Hospital the night Medina came in.

Jenifer created an online fundraiser to help their family following her brother’s death, and in the fundraiser’s description, she wrote about the day she “feared the most.” She was working at Mission Hospital when Medina was taken in, and she recog-

nized his wallet when it was brought to her.

She saw her brother’s face on the ID. “My whole world collapsed as I did,” Jenifer wrote. “The nurses I call my friends all came and held me as I cried on the hospital floor. They got me to a bed and I asked, ‘Is he gone?’ ‘Yes, he’s gone.’”

“Andy had so many goals for his future and was taken from all of us too soon,” Jenifer wrote. “I just want all the people he loved and loved him to get a chance to say their last good byes to him.”

Abel Lopez, 22, of San Juan Capistrano, said he and Medina had been close friends for more than 15 years, attending San Juan Elementary School, Marco Forster Middle School and San Juan Hills High School together. While holding vigil at Medina’s memorial last Saturday, Lopez described him as “always happy” and said he was often the center of attention.

“He was himself, not a follower,” Lopez recalled. “He tried to live life to the fullest.”

Lopez estimated about 60 people contributed to Medina’s memorial on Saturday, leaving candles, photos and other mementos including a skateboard with messages etched on it such as “No Limit” and “See you [on] the flipside.” Lopez said Medina could always be seen on his skateboard.

“He was a real friend, a good friend,” Lopez said. “You can say you have a lot of friends, but you know which ones are real and which ones are not. He was one of the real ones.”

For Lopez, Medina was the brother he never had.

“We were the best of friends. He was like my brother,” Lopez said as he sat across from the memorial. “That’s the

Friends and family of Andy Medina gathered at a memorial on Saturday, Oct. 3. Several of Medina’s friends remained at the site through the midnight hour. Photo: Allison Jarrell

An online fundraiser to help Medina’s family can be found at www.gofundme.com/8y5jxdbw under the name “Cesar Andres Medina.” reason I’ve been here all night. That’s the least I can do.”

DRIVER PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO FELONY HIT-AND-RUN CHARGE On Saturday, Oct. 3, while friends and family mourned Medina’s death in San Juan, Orange County Sheriff’s Department traffic investigators obtained information that led them to the Laguna Niguel residence of 19-year-old Andrew Christopher Michaels. Upon arrival, deputies located a Dodge Ram truck—the vehicle believed to have struck Medina— parked in the driveway. A short time later, Michaels contacted deputies at the station and, following an interview with investigators, he was arrested at approximately 9:30 p.m. His truck was towed and is being processed for evidence.

Michaels was booked into Orange County Jail on $100,000 bail—later increased to $500,000—for felony hit and

run. He was arraigned on Tuesday, Oct. 6 in Department CJ-1 of the Central Jail in Santa Ana and pleaded not guilty to a charge of felony hit-and-run with permanent injury or death, according to Orange County District Attorney officials. Deputy District Attorney Stephen Cornwell of the Homicide Unit is prosecuting the case.

Michaels’ pretrial hearing is set for 8:30 a.m. Oct. 15 in Department H1 at the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of four years in state prison.

Michaels is accused of hitting Medina as he was crossing Del Obispo Street last Friday night and dragging his body with the truck for approximately 100 feet, according to the district attorney’s office.

In addition, Michaels is accused of driving “away from the scene without stopping the vehicle to render aid or assistance.”

Lt. Jeff Hallock said Monday that authorities have received conflicting statements from independent witnesses as to whether Medina was skateboarding across Del Obispo on a green light with a pedestrian walk sign.

The investigation in this case is ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call OCSD’s Traffic Bureau Sergeant Ray Wert at 949.425.1860. CD

EYE ON SJC

Back in the Saddle Annual Shea Center event honors riders, raises more than $1 million for therapeutic equestrian programs

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

t was an emotional scene at the The J.F. Shea Center for Therapeutic Riding on Sept. 26. Horseback riders young and old—many of whom are continually overcoming physical, mental or emotional hurdles in their lives—took to the center’s Klein Family Arena to demonstrate the skills they’ve developed during their time in San Juan Capistrano.

More than 1,500 sponsors, donors, families and visitors surrounded the arena during the event, applauding the command and confidence each rider possessed as they made their rounds. A small girl by the name of Emilia Brown-Brennan beamed at the crowd as she took her horseback riding to the next level—first turning to sit backwards and later standing up on her horse’s saddle—feats the tiny rider had obviously mastered.

Tears welled in the eyes of many as the rider demonstrations came to a close, kicking off The Shea Center’s 37th annual BBQ & Family Faire—what has come to be the largest of the center’s fundraisers, drawing guests from across Orange County. Beyond demonstrations, the evening included more than 300 silent auction items, a presentation by one of the center’s families, live country music performed by Swingshift and dancing into the night.

Each year funds from the event are used to support the center’s therapeutic horse-related programs, which are dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities. Specifically, the center’s programs address 70 physical and cognitive disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, speech disabilities and Down syndrome.

The Shea Center is not only ranked at the “premier” level by PATH International—the accreditation organization for equine assisted activities—it’s one of the top five therapeutic riding centers among more than 840 facilities across the country.

As a nonprofit 501(c)(3), the organization receives no federal, state or county funding, and rider fees account for only 15 percent of The Shea Center’s budget. The rest is funded solely by grants, donations and fundraisers.

So this year, when staff and supporters learned that, for the first time in history, more than $1 million in gross proceeds The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

Clockwise from top: Speech therapists Javonne Mullins and Terri Hutchison assist Shea Center rider Cristina Santiago during a demonstration on Sept. 26. Retired Marine captain Derek Herrera presented the colors at The Shea Center’s 37th annual BBQ & Family Faire. Families watch a film about rider Christoper Csik’s progress at The Shea Center during the Sept. 26 event. Two riders participate in a pre-event demonstration at The Shea Center’s BBQ & Family Faire. Photos: Allison Jarrell

was raised from the sold-out event, it was joyful news for all involved, especially for the families who benefit from the center’s hippotherapy programs.

The annual operating budget for the center is just over $3 million, with the barbecue proceeds comprising nearly onethird of the yearly budget.

“The BBQ & Family Faire hit a new level this year,” said executive director, Dana Butler-Moburg. “We could not have done it without some tremendous partnerships with our sponsors, in particular Montage Laguna Beach, and extremely generous donors before, during and after the event.

We are so very grateful.”

AN EVENING OF STARS At the beginning of the Sept. 26 festivities, prior to the rider demonstrations, Butler-Moburg welcomed guests to the Klein Family Arena, where retired Army surgeon Kenneth Lee and retired Marine captain Derek Herrera presented the colors.

While on horseback, Herrera shared his personal story of being wounded in Afghanistan and returning with a spinal cord injury

that left him paralyzed from the chest down.

He said his time riding at The Shea Center has not only given him a sport to be part of, but also the physical freedom that helps him continue his recovery and fitness.

A choreographed six-horse drill team riding demonstration followed Herrera’s speech, along with demonstrations from several other Shea Center riders.

One of the evening’s most heartfelt moments was the annual “Parade of Stars,” with over 60 Shea Center riders, families and volunteers walking through the dining area, surrounded by a standing ovation.

This year’s honored rider was 10-yearold Christopher Csik of Glendora. His parents, Steven and Carey, spoke of their son’s path following a series of strokes, which have left him paralyzed and unable to speak. Steven said Christopher was first evaluated for the program in midJune 2014 while he was still experiencing trauma from previous brain swell.

“We were excited by the possibilities,” Steven said of The Shea Center’s programs “There aren’t too many equestrian facilities that offer the depth of therapy

Page 7

that they provide.”

During the past year of services, Shea Center said Christopher’s improvement has been remarkable. Steven said he and Carey have continually seen incremental, positive improvements in their son’s condition since beginning hippotherapy— a physical, occupational, or speech and language therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement. Of the many doctors, appointments and other medical services that Chris relies on, Steven said The Shea Center is a “very critical component” of what he and Carey hope is a “very high-level functioning” recovery.

“Even though we live 50 miles from The Shea Center, we put that weekly drive in perspective,” Steven said during his Sept.

26 presentation. “At The Shea Center, Chris has nearly immediate access to an unrivaled equestrian therapy facility with highly skilled therapists, and he has an opportunity to continue his recovery and growth here indefinitely.”

“We believe Chris has the capacity to gain so much back,” Steven added. “This generosity is critical in making it happen.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

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

Del Prado Opens for Two-Lane Traffic On Tuesday, Sept. 29, the city of Dana Point reached the latest milestone in the ongoing Lantern District revitalization plan—the opening of Del Prado Avenue to two-way traffic.

The opening began at 7 a.m. last Tuesday with crews working downcoast from Ruby Lantern, and was complete by 2 p.m., one hour ahead of plan, said Brad Fowler, director of the city’s Public Works and Engineering department.

The opening, Fowler said, will make area destinations much easier to reach, since there are now no one-way streets to navigate.

For that reason, Matt Sinacori, city engineer, said the temporary road signs, with arrows depicting two-way traffic, as well as additional temporary stop signs, will remain in place for a week—or two if needed—in order to help motorists navigate the change.

All intersections, except Golden Lantern, are now four-way stops. Brick pavers have been added at the intersections to mark pedestrian crossings, and controlled crosswalk buttons/lights remain at

Directional signs will remain up for a week or two following the opening of Del Prado Avenue to two-way traffic last Tuesday. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Golden Lantern.

The first planned event, so far, is the Del Prado Art Walk, set for Saturday, Oct. 17, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. An official ribbon cutting event for Del Prado Avenue and the Lantern District is tentatively scheduled for 11 a.m. on Nov. 16, near the Lantern District entry archway at the upcoast (northern) entry to the district, where Pacific Coast Highway and Del Prado split.

— Andrea Swayne

Woman in Roseburg Shooting was South Orange County Native Kim Dietz, 59, who lived in South Orange County most of her life, was one of the nine victims killed in the Umpqua Community College shooting on Oct. 1 in Roseburg, Oregon.

Kim’s daughter, Shannon, was taking classes at the same college as her mother and was on campus the day of the shooting, which was carried out by Chris Harper Mercer, 26, who also died during the incident.

Kim’s brother- and sister-in-law are currently in Oregon helping Kim’s widower, Eric, and Shannon pick up the pieces, but they haven’t been alone in the effort. People in the area have been helping the family restore their home, as they were in the midst of remodeling before Kim was shot.

“Yesterday 25 volunteers showed up and they are redoing the whole house and doing the painting and flooring,” Toni Dietz, Kim’s sister-in-law, said.

Kim was remembered as a hard-working individual who would help people in need. Randy, Kim’s brother-in-law, said he had known her for almost two decades and that she had a resilient spirit.

“Her dedication to her daughter is probably the No. 1 characteristic about her,” Randy said.

Randy said Kim grew up in Mission Viejo but spent a lot of time in the San Clemente area. He said she was very involved at Concordia Elementary, where her daughter attended school when they lived in the area. They moved to Oregon in 2008.

President Barack Obama on Tuesday announced he would make a visit to the victims of the Roseburg shooting. — Eric Heinz

EYE ON SJC

Community SJC Sheriff’s Blotter Meetings

p.m.) A caller reported seeing a drunken man in the street hitting a car. Before the line disconnected, the caller said, “the subject has a pitbull now,” and “Uh oh.

There’s three guys now.”

COMPILED BY ALLISON JARRELL AND ANDREA SWAYNE

TUESDAY, OCT. 13

Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Trails & Equestrian Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Log on to www.sanjuancapistrano.org to see the body’s agenda.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 14

Downtown Farmers Market 3 p.m.– 7 p.m. Flowers, produce and specialty foods from dozens of vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street.

Visit www.farmersmarketsjc.com or call 949.493.4700 to find out more.

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting 7 p.m.

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

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.

Saturday, October 3 PEDESTRIAN CHECK Camino Capistrano/Calle Chueca (11:41 p.m.) Deputies contacted a suspicious man on the sidewalk. The man was known by police as a past Varrio Chico gang affiliate. The man denied being a current member.

INVESTIGATE PERSON DOWN Rancho Viejo Road, 31700 Block (10:45 p.m.) An unconscious man was seen on the curb near a skilled nursing building.

Orange County Fire Authority responded.

Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Via Mondano, 28300 Block (10:23 p.m.)

A caller phoned police to report seeing four men walking in the area. The caller found it suspicious because the men were not residents of the neighborhood.

MONDAY, OCT. 19

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Alipaz Street/Calle Rio Vista (7:45 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested on Alipaz near the creek bed when several young men around four dark colored vehicles were acting suspiciously.

FRIDAY, OCT. 16

forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome.

Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission Meeting 6 p.m.

The Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Log on to www.sanjuancapistrano.org to see the body’s agenda.

TUESDAY, OCT. 20

City Council, Housing Authority and Successor Agency Meeting 5 p.m. The

city’s governing body meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the night’s agenda, visit, www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 21

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting

7 p.m. The Capistrano Unified School District governing body meets at district offices, located at 33122 Valle Road. To see the board’s agenda, visit www.capousd.org.

FRIDAY, OCT. 23

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 32400 Block (3:01

WELFARE CHECK Camino Capistrano, 31700 Block (6:24 a.m.) A Starbucks customer called about a disabled man in his 20s asking for money inside the business. The caller was concerned for the man’s welfare.

PEDESTRIAN CHECK Rancho Viejo Road, 29800 Block (11:35 p.m.) Deputies stopped a known probationer/gang member and his girlfriend and conducted consent searches of both subjects. No violations were found.

CITIZEN ASSIST Calle Delphinia, 26400 Block (11:29 a.m.)

A woman said she was bitten on her left breast by a dog the previous night outside of the Swallow’s Inn. There was alcohol involved and she did not need medical attention at the time. At the time of the call, the woman’s breast was “really bruised” and she wanted to file a report.

TRESPASSING San Juan Creek Road, 32100 Block (5:19 p.m.) Eight juveniles fishing at the lake refused to leave until they saw police.

RECKLESS DRIVING San Juan Creek Road/Camino Chico (1:39 p.m.) A vehicle was seen doing donuts in the street at the end of San Juan Creek Road.

Thursday, October 1

KEEP THE PEACE Ortega Highway, 27700 Block (7:05 p.m.)

A woman was out walking the dog when another resident’s dog chased after her, causing her to fall and get injured. The caller, the woman’s husband, wanted to speak with a deputy. Animal Control was advised. The woman refused treatment by Orange County Fire Authority.

Friday, October 2

WELFARE CHECK Calle Roberto, 26300 Block (2:10 p.m.)

A man called from New York requesting a welfare check after receiving an email from another man talking about having trouble breathing, saying that his “brain is on fire,” and that when he uses the internet he hears airplanes. The man also sent pictures of himself wearing aluminum foil hats, the caller said.

PEDESTRIAN CHECK Calle Resplendor/Paseo El Arco (10:47 p.m.) Deputies stopped a known gang member for having no light on his bicycle.

A consent search yielded no results. The subject was given a warning for not having a light and for the injunction curfew.

KEEP THE PEACE Rancho Viejo Road, 31600 Block (7:50 p.m.) A man told deputies he feels like he is being harassed by his upstairs neighbor who keeps calling on the phone and then hanging up when he answers.

Wednesday, September 30 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Summer Walk Drive, 29800 Block (11:43 p.m.) A woman sitting in front of her home in a black Prius called police because she thought she saw someone inside her house. She requested a walk-through.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32300 Block (9:34 p.m.)

A drunken man was yelling profanities at a tenant.

DISTURBANCE Paseo Reposo, 27900 Block (7:28 p.m.)

A man was yelling and screaming in the street. It was not known if he was on drugs.

Page 9

DISTURBANCE San Juan Creek Road, 28000 Block (6:59 p.m.) A woman standing in a driveway said her 16-year-old son wouldn’t let her leave her ex-husband’s residence. Her son was standing in the way of her vehicle.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES La Calera Street, 31400 Block (6:48 p.m.)

A woman told police her ex-boyfriend was just released from prison and was driving around the neighborhood looking for her.

She saw him behind the wheel of a silver or gray older Ford sedan.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES San Juan Creek Road/Camino Capistrano (5:53 p.m.) A woman with short blonde hair and blue cutoff shorts was seen walking into the street and screaming at vehicles. She was thought to be either mentally ill or under the influence of a controlled substance.

BATTERY Del Obispo Street/Camino Capistrano (3:34 p.m.) A man at a liquor store reported that a known drug dealer had assaulted him 10 to 15 minutes prior to his call to police. The subject was a 23-year-old man wearing a black shirt and jeans and carrying a knife. He was possibly under the influence of a controlled substance and was last seen at “Swallows Park.” The man who was assaulted requested paramedics.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-UNKNOWN INJURIES Del Obispo Street/Alipaz Street (2:22 p.m.)

A school bus collided with a Toyota minivan. No children were injured.

GRAND THEFT REPORT Camino Capistrano, 32400 Block (1:13 p.m.) Two women stole $900 worth of wine from Vons grocery store. The women left in a black Chevrolet Malibu with no license plates.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Calita, 33500 Block (8:12 a.m.)

A woman reported finding a small caliber round in her son’s bedroom that matched a hole in his bedroom window. She said her son heard what he thought was an “explosion” on Saturday night and she noticed his window was broken Wednesday morning. The woman said there was a bullet hole in the blinds and she found a second bullet in a different bedroom.

Tuesday, September 29 CITIZEN ASSIST Paseo Adelanto, 32500 Block (11:06 p.m.)

A man “who is indigent, not to be confused with homeless” told police about subjects across the greater San Juan Capistrano area who are messing with him, flattening tires on his bike carrier and switching his mouth wash out with an unknown substance. He mostly blamed people at 24 Hour Fitness, but had no actual proof. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: The Bartlett Bulletin by Lisa Bartlett, Orange County Supervisor 5th District

Get Prepared, Learn How!

I

n addition to serving as your Orange County Supervisor, and current vice chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, I also have the privilege of serving on 18 other county THE BARTLETT boards, committees and BULLETIN commissions, including

By Lisa Bartlett the Orange County Fire Authority Board of Directors.

September was National Preparedness Month, and as we enter high-risk wildfire season in the midst of our record drought, it is extremely important that we prepare our families, homes and businesses now for the event of a natural disaster or major emergency.

This year, we have already experienced a rash of wildfires and even a recent tsunami advisory. We can also expect the inevitable red flag conditions associated with Santa Ana winds, high heat and low humidity, increasing the risk of wildfire exponentially.

And with the El Niño weather conditions that are also anticipated, which could produce devastating flooding and landslides, we must take action now to protect against potential loss of life and property.

Many residents have built their homes and landscaped without fully understanding the impact that could result from wildfire.

There may not be a lot of time to figure out who is home, what to take, where or when to go. Disaster can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. Roads, water, gas, electricity and telephone service may be cut off.

If a disastrous event overwhelms or delays your community’s first responders, are you prepared to go it alone for at least 72 hours? Firefighters train hard to prepare for wildfires and other disasters.

Residents need to do the same. Take

Letters to the Editor GO TO SCHOOL AND STOP THE WHINING —Frederick Stewart, Capistrano Beach It seems some of the spoiled natives are upset with the start (date) of the fall term.

It must be crisis time at the school district.

I have news for these people. Get over it! It’s just a bump in the road.

Be thankful you have a school to go to, carrying a backpack and not a gas mask.

The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

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

personal responsibility and learn what you can do today.

As your Orange County Supervisor, your safety is among my highest priorities.

To that end, I’m pleased to announce I will be hosting the 2015 South County Disaster Preparedness Expo in partnership with the city of Mission Viejo and the Irvine Ranch Conservancy.

This enormously popular, eighth annual event will be held Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to noon, in the Village Green at the Norman P. Murray Community Center, 24932 Veterans Way, in Mission Viejo.

Attended by thousands of South County residents, the Disaster Preparedness Expo is a free event and open to the public.

With the participation of the Orange County Fire Authority and Orange County

“well, wildfires, floods, earthAs we’ve learned all too

quakes and tsunamis are ever present threats in Southern California. We can’t predict when the next disaster will

strike, but we can certainly be

”

prepared.

Sheriff’s Department, the Disaster Preparedness Expo will feature the largest array of state-of-the-art disaster preparedness and emergency response vehicles and equipment demonstrations in Orange County, all in one location.

As always, the expo will provide valuable information from a host of agencies and organizations to residents and businesses on

how to be prepared before, during and after a major emergency or natural disaster. The event will also feature an earthquake simulator, interactive booths, food, music and fun for all ages, free giveaways, in addition to a wealth of practical advice on preparing your family, home and business.

As we’ve learned all too well, wildfires, floods, earthquakes and tsunamis are ever present threats in Southern California. We can’t predict when the next disaster will strike, but we can certainly be prepared. As such, I urge you to attend the 2015 South County Disaster Preparedness Expo.

Public mass notification systems have also become a critical component of emergency preparation and response. To that end, AlertOC is Orange County’s regional public mass notification system designed to keep those who live or work in Orange County informed of important information during emergency events.

The AlertOC system is sponsored and led by the County of Orange in partnership with many Orange County cities. I encourage everyone to register their cell phones, text devices and email addresses at www.alertoc.com. You can also receive and manage AlertOC notifications on an iOS or Android device.

Get Prepared, Learn How! For more information about the South County Disaster Preparedness Expo, please contact my office at 714.834.3550.

For more information on how to be better prepared in the event of a disaster or major emergency, please visit www.ocfa.org.

See you at the South County Disaster Preparedness Expo. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

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

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.thecapistranodispatch.com

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Allison Jarrell, 949.388.7700, x108 ajarrell@thecapistranodispatch.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@thecapistranodispatch.com 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 > Allison Jarrell Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea Papagianis

—Carla Bauer, San Juan Capistrano I want to thank and encourage Pam Patterson for her invocation at the Sept. 1 City Council meeting. I don’t think Dave Solt (The Capistrano Dispatch, Sept. 25, “Call for Equality Following Councilwoman’s Prayer”) realizes that San Juan Capistrano has a large Christian population with over 12 churches and seven Christian schools.

We are clearly a Christian community.

Thank you, Pam, for representing us.

People have been trying to remove God and that is the reason our culture is on such a fast downhill slide. Without God

and the Bible, there is no moral code.

“Everyone does what is right in their own eyes.” Judges 21:25 I urge you to support Pam as well.

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

Page 10

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)

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO IS A CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Evan Da Silva Dana Schnell Tim Trent

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 13, Issue 19. 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 2015. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

33551 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano Just minutes from downtown San Juan Capistrano and local beaches, this special property feels worlds away. Located in the rustic gated community of McCracken Hill, this luxury custom home provides the best of rural living while sporting ocean and city light views. The two level home, custom constructed by the current owners as their personal residence, has a flexible floorplan that can accommodate many living styles. Listed at $1,700,000.

Michael Johnson, REALTOR Mjohnson@villarealestate.com Villarealestate.com

949.698.1302 BRE NO.01429647

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

At the Movies: ‘The Martian’ is a Trip

EDITOR’S PICK

What’s going on in and around town

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 09 CARINVAL COLOSSAL 5 p.m.-midnight. Enjoy carnival rides, food trucks and entertainment Friday through Sunday at Vista Hermosa Sports Park in San Clemente. The carnival runs from noon to midnight on Saturday and noon to 10 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call 949.492.1131 or visit www.sanclementeparksfoundation.org. Vista Hermosa Sports Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa.

Saturday | 10 THRILLER, SPILLER AND FILLER 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Create a succulent pumpkin arrangement in a few steps to help celebrate the harvest season. Class is $45.

31661 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.

SECOND STAGE STAND-UP 7:30 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse hosts a lineup of four comedians on the second Saturday of each month. Admission is $15, reservations are recommended. To purchase tickets, call 949.489.8082 or visit www.comedyintheoc.com. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Sunday | 11 AN EVENING OF MUSIC & COMEDY 7 p.m. Aloe Blacc, Rita Rudner and the Funniest Housewives perform live at the Coach House. Tickets are $48. Doors open at 5 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

Monday | 12 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS GOLF TOURNAMENT 10 a.m. The day starts with a putting contest at 10:30 a.m. The shotgun start will be at noon. The tournament fee is $140 and includes golf, cart, lunch, awards and banquet. To make the day special, sink a hole-in-one on golf green number 18 and win a new Cadillac. Players may register on-site. Those who can’t attend the event can support the cause by making a cash donation. Register by calling 949.429.1151.

San Juan Hills Golf Course, 32120 San Juan Creek Road.

The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

Photo: iStockPhoto.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10: CAPISTRANO CHILI COOK-OFF 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Capistrano Chili Cook-Off & Grilled Cheese Sandwich Contest will take place in The BrewHouse parking lot, featuring craft beer and live music by Family Style from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit local nonprofit Great Opportunities. For more details, follow Capistrano Chili Cookoff on Facebook. The BrewHouse, 31896 Plaza Drive, San Juan Capistrano, sjcchilicookoff@gmail.com.

Tuesday | 13 ECO TOTS GARDEN LEARNING 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Children and parents will enjoy hands-on learning while experiencing the wonder of the garden at The Ecology Center. Admission is $25 for families of up to two children up to 4 years old, and $5 for each additional child. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

Thursday | 15 LECTURE: WOODPECKERS, CARPENTERS OF THE BIRD WORLD 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Join The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo for a presentation on a family of birds that holds a critical place in the natural world. Gillian Martin, program director of the Cavity Conservation Initiative, will focus on the biology of woodpeckers and review those in our region. Admission is free. Space is limited. The RMV Presentation Center, call for directions, 949.489.9778, www.rmvreserve.org.

Common Sense and Flashpants. Local breweries Pizza Port, Left Coast, Artifex and Ballast Point will be on hand. There will be games, food and more. Presale tickets are available. 1505 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, www.scoktoberfest.com.

DANA HILLS CARNIVAL 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Dana Hills High School students present a school carnival with food, games, rides, live music and more. Tickets $25 per sheet or $30 for an unlimited ride wristband. Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, dhhscarnival@gmail.com.

Tuesday | 20 LUNCH LOCAL 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the San Juan Chamber of Commerce for a networking lunch at The Vintage Steakhouse, located at 26701-B Verdugo Street in San Juan Capistrano. RSVP to claire@sanjuanchamber. com or call 949.493.4700. For more information, visit www.sanjuanchamber.com.

Thursday | 22

CHRIS DANIELS PROJECT 7:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn, 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

Saturday | 17 THIRD ANNUAL SAN CLEMENTE OKTOBERFEST 11 a.m.-8 p.m. The event will take place in the Elks Lodge Parking Lot. Live music including Schwaubapower, Tunnel Vision,

ILYA SEROV JAZZ CONCERT 7 p.m. Enjoy a jazz concert at San Juan Hills Golf Club’s 19 Sports Bar & Grill featuring horn player Ilya Serov with KayTa Matsuno on guitar, Greg Manning on keyboards, Rafe Bradford on bass and Greg Sadler on drums at. Tickets are $20 in advance, or $25 at the door. Email tickets@sanjuanhillsgolf.com to reserve your seat. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.1919, www.sanjuanhillsgolf.com.

Page 15

Photo: Twentieth Century Fox

BY MEGAN BIANCO

H

alloween season this year starts off not with a horror film from Hollywood but a sci-fi journey called The Martian, adapted from Andy Weir’s popular book by the same name. After one of the most underwhelming Septembers in recent movie history, October brings the return of the ever-inconsistent Ridley Scott. His last hit film was 2007’s American Gangster and his last sci-fi feature was the disappointing Prometheus (2012). With The Martian, we see a reminder of a great blockbuster maker.

While exploring planet Mars, a space crew quickly moves back into space when an intense storm hits. Only fellow astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is left behind—mistaken as dead—when he’s knocked unconscious by debris. When he awakens he’s left with his tiny camp, limited supplies and food as well as a web camera. Soon NASA and Watney’s team discover his whereabouts and scurry to rescue him.

Jessica Chastain, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kristen Wiig and Jeff Daniels co-star as Watney’s colleagues. What’s remarkable about The Martian is how rapid, yet smooth, the film’s pace is. There’s no horror like Scott’s classic Alien (1979) or mystique like his Blade Runner (1982), but there are sarcastic jabs that don’t get too obnoxious and dozens of characters that work well together with a ton of chemistry. Damon and cast are stellar and keep the film grounded and not too cluttered. Not only is Scott in top form again aesthetically and narratively, but Watney’s odyssey has one of the catchiest soundtracks ever featured in a space flick. CD

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

GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

The Spirit of The Vintage Paranormal team searches for the ghost of Modesta Avila in allegedly haunted restaurant

O

-o-o-o … Did you feel that bump in the night?

Ghost stories abound in San Juan Capistrano. The newest addition to our ghost lore comes from The Vintage Steakhouse. The fact that the restaurant sits in what was once a train compartment is a significant part of this tale. Some of the employees and guests of The Vintage say they have been “haunted” by the ghost of Modesta Avila.

Modesta Avila lived in the Combs House—next to the railroad tracks and now the Hummingbird Café—from 1880 to 1890. According to local legend, she was upset when the railroad came to town because the noise of the trains kept her chickens from laying eggs. To let the railroad know that she was upset, she hung her laundry over the tracks as a sign of protest. Modesta, a young Mexican girl, did not know that it was a federal offense to put anything over the railroad tracks.

According to the facts, the station master advised her to take down the laundry before a train came—which she did—so there really was no crime.

However, this was 1889, the start of Orange County, and there was a new district attorney for the new county. He lost his first case, which he should have won, and was anxious to prove his power. So he filed charges against Modesta. The first case ended in a hung jury, but he was not content, so he filed against her again. This time, he indicated that this young, unmarried Mexican girl was pregnant—a definite no-no in 1890. The second time around, he got his conviction. Modesta Avila was sent to San Quentin prison, and after two years she died in jail. There never was a baby.

And history stopped being concerned

with Modesta … until now.

Recently, the patrons and employees of The Vintage have had several eerie episodes attributed to the ghost of Modesta Avila. Two women were in the restroom when one felt a startling bump; she was so frightened she fainted. The other woman felt the bump so strongly, that she went back to her table and told her husband she would wait for him outside—she was never going inside the restaurant again.

Employees have seen flickering lights, a vision of a young girl in the wine cabinet, creaking floors and light images on the walls. An area in the dining car section of the restaurant has experienced cold drafts for no MOMENTS IN apparent reason.

TIME

By Jan Siegel With the above incidents in mind, Orange County Ghosts and Legends, a group that explores the possibility of apparitions, decided to check out the potential existence of Modesta Avila’s ghost in the restaurant. Before visiting a site, the team first does research to determine whether the occurrence of a ghost is likely. In this case, the story of Modesta Avila definitely raised the level of possibility.

Ghosts and Legends came to the restaurant equipped with an array of ghost hunting gear—an Ovilus, Ksticks and electromagnetic equipment. Late at night, members of the group sat in the dark asking questions in both English and Spanish, hoping to get a response. I sat in with them and during the hour that I was there, we heard and saw nothing.

However, after I left, they experienced

Left: A view of the outside of The Vintage Steakhouse, where a group called Orange County Ghosts and Legends searched for the ghost of Modesta Avila. Above: Some employees and guests of The Vintage Steakhouse have said they’ve experienced paranormal activity in the rail car-turned-restaurant.

Photos: Allison Jarrell

a chair falling over. The chair in question had arms and was moved close to the table so that the arms were underneath the table. The only way for the chair to fall backward was for “someone” to have moved it away from the table. All sounds were recorded and then analyzed.

When the members of Ghosts and Legends reviewed the recording of their evening at The Vintage, they heard a voice respond to their question, “What is your

Pet of the Week: Boots

Sudoku

Boots is a gorgeous 5-year-old longhair gray tabby with white “boots.” He is super friendly with people, but picky about which cats he likes. Boots is currently staying at the Ortega Animal Care Center, located at 27341 Ortega Highway in San Juan Capistrano, and can be visited there.

Because The Ark of San Juan does not have a shelter, the nonprofit relies heavily on the kindness of foster families who open their heart and their homes. The Ark is looking for a short-term foster family for Boots so that he can enjoy a home setting before finding his new forever home. If you are interested in fostering Boots or another cat or dog, contact The Ark at info@ arkofsanjuan.org. The Ark of San Juan is a nonprofit organization that rescues animals from the San Juan Capistrano area whose other options have run out. For more information or to see other available pets, visit www.arkofsanuan.org.

BY MYLES MELLOR Solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

name?” with “I don’t like trains.” At the time, a freight train was going by. Remember, it was the train that got Modesta in trouble in the first place.

I confess, I heard the statement “I don’t like trains” very clearly on their tape.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you can spend a “Moment in Time” on Friday, Oct. 23, and Saturday, Oct. 24, by taking the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society’s Ghost Walk and learning more about our folklore, our legends and things that go bump in the night.

Reservations are a must and can be made online by visiting sjcghosttour2015@ evenbrite.com or calling the historical society at 949.843.8444. CD

Page 16

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

Above: (L to R) Local band Sapphire Road includes Michael Kenney, of Dana Point, on lead guitar, Chris Dailey, of San Clemente, on drums and Olivia Rhode, of San Juan Capistrano, on vocals and guitar. Not pictured is the band’s newest member, bassist Cameron Dalsimer, of San Clemente. Photo: Allison Jarrell Below: Sapphire Road performs at The Wayfarer in Costa Mesa. Photo: Sheva Kafai/houseafter.com

Sapphire Road Local band creates dreamy, surf rock in South Orange County

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

f you’re a longtime San Juan Capistrano resident, you’ve likely seen singer/ songwriter Olivia Rohde around town.

Today she patrols the beaches of Dana Point as an Orange County lifeguard, but she has strong San Juan roots, including a Junior Miss Fiesta title under her belt.

As a 16-year-old, Rohde’s first performance was in the back of a flatbed truck at the Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort’s annual car show, and she’s been writing songs and performing live every since.

The first iteration of Rohde’s band, Sapphire Road, was formed in 2009 by Rohde and former lead guitarist Ryan Brennan— they combined his birthstone and a pun on her last name to label the band.

Following a five-year hiatus, the band regrouped last August with the addition The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

of guitarist Michael Kenney of Dana Point and drummer Chris Dailey of San Clemente. Today, the tri-city band’s newest member is bassist Cameron Dalsimer of San Clemente.

Comprised entirely of surfers, Sapphire Road describes their sound as surf rock with a dreamy, alternative twist. Rohde said she’s inspired by some of the great artists of the 50s and 60s like Janice Joplin, as well as the vocals of modern artists like LeAnn Rimes. She likens her sound to alternative rock band Mazzy Star.

like a new age “blastWe’re from the past.

We have a vintage, edgy sound.

”

—Olivia Rohde

In October 2014, Sapphire Road released their first record, Time Stood Still, and earlier this year they came out with their first music video for the title track, produced by R&R. It was a busy summer season in 2015 for the band, with shows locally as well as across Orange County and Los Angeles,

including all three House of Blues—Los Angeles, San Diego and Anaheim—and they don’t intend to slow down, at least not in the studio. In a few weeks’ time, they’ll have recorded and released a second album, followed by a new music video produced by Jaime Martinez of San Juan Capistrano.

Rohde said the new songs are true to their style, while featuring an energetic vibe from Dailey on the drums. The new EP, Rohde said, is best enjoyed cruising along Pacific Coast Highway with the top down.

Each band member works one or more jobs outside of creating music, which Rohde said can make it tricky to find time to get together and practice. However, they’ve set their sights on moving forward—finding a manager, a label and eventually opening for bigger bands before achieving their own national and international fame.

But each member made it clear—no matter how high the band’s aspirations soar, they’re serious about staying grounded and true to themselves and their music.

They don’t fancy the idea of following the crowd to reach success.

“We do it because we love it,” Dailey said. CD

Page 17

You can find Sapphire Road on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ sapphireroadmusic, on Twitter at twitter.com/_sapphireroad, on Instagram at instagram.com/sapphireroadmusic/ and on YouTube under ‘Sapphire Road.’ The band’s website is www.sapphireroadmusic.com.

The band recently launched a line of merchandise, including $5 CDs, $15 American Apparel T-shirts, $20 hoodies and free stickers with any purchase.

To place an order, private message Sapphire Road on Facebook or email sapphireroadmusic@gmail.com with your size/color preference. Sapphire Road’s dreamcatcher logo was designed and screen printed by Artwistic Creations in San Clemente. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

Vintage Showcases San Juan’s Best Food and wine festival raises funds for chamber while delighting guests with culinary treats, libations

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

M

ore than 1,000 guests gathered to say goodbye to the swallows at the San Juan Chamber of Commerce’s 19th annual Vintage Food & Wine Festival. Adorned with festive string lights, Mission San Juan Capistrano was the backdrop of the Oct. 3 event, which raises funds each year for the chamber.

The evening featured 37 restaurants, wineries, breweries and bars serving their best fare and beverages while local band Family Style provided live music for the fifth consecutive year.

Mark Bodenhamer, executive director of the chamber, said the event was sold out ahead of time, also for the fifth year in a row.

Adorned with festive string lights, Mission San Juan Capistrano was the backdrop of the Oct. 3 event.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

Hamilton Oaks event planner Cheryl Valenzano pours a glass of wine from Hamilton Oaks Winery. Photo: Allison Jarrell

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

Older Singles’ Dating Issue: Chemistry

O

lder singles hoping to find a relationship face many challenges.

One of the more delicate ones is chemistry.

A widower emailed: “My question has to do with female chemistry. My wife passed away suddenly two years ago. I was married for 50 years to the love of my life. I am 72. I met a lovely lady on Match.com and have been seeing her for four months. We both work so it is usually on the weekends when we get together. She was widowed six years ago after a 37-year marriage to the love of her life. She is 65.

“We have an incredible number of things in common,” he continued. “I am the first man she has dated and she is The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

Mission Grill offered a fresh take on chicken tostadas. Photo: Allison Jarrell

the second woman I have dated. She is terrific. We talk a lot about our spouses, which seems to be the best ‘counseling’ for both of us. We said from the beginning that we would be open and honest with each other.

“We are in no hurry to have sex but both seem to enjoy being together, holding hands and cuddling very affectionately. Two weeks ago, after having dinner at my house and cuddling, she telephoned the next morning to tell me she liked me and enjoyed my company and was not saying goodbye, but that she felt no real chemisON LIFE AND try. This blew me away LOVE AFTER 50 considering her behavior

By Tom Blake the night before.”

The widower went on to ask a series of questions.

“Is there a magic bullet to light her chemistry or is there no real chemistry when you get to be so old?

“I really want to be with this lady, but it is awkward knowing she doesn’t feel about me as I thought she did.

“Is female chemistry so different from men’s? Any suggestions would be better

than anything I have come up with.”

Without knowing all of the relationship details, it’s difficult to pinpoint the problem. Here are 10 items for him to consider: 1. Chemistry by any name—female chemistry, real chemistry or just chemistry—is an attraction for another person.

It’s an essential ingredient to romantic relationships.

2. There is no magic wand that you can wave; it’s either present or not.

3. At least she is being honest with you. You are the first man she has dated and perhaps she is simply proceeding cautiously. If that spark isn’t there for her, at least you know it now. Is your personal hygiene in order?

4. I have had women tell me that when they first dated a man that there was no chemistry. And then after a period of time, chemistry suddenly developed. There might be hope.

5. I assure you, there is chemistry in our later years!

6. A man of 72 is fortunate; there are approximately five single women to each single man your age. You have a strong chance of meeting a fine woman who would be attracted to you. Continue to see her but date around a bit; maybe check

Page 18

Gustavo Lezama and Jasmine Gonzalez, co-owners of Taqueros Mexican Restaurant, served up shrimp cocktail and ceviche at The Vintage. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Bodenhamer thanked the participating restaurants, chamber staff and the more than 100 volunteers who make the event possible each year. He said this year’s festival had a good mix of returning restaurants that are San Juan staples—such as Ricardo’s Place, El Adobe de Capistrano and Sundried Tomato—and brand new eateries such as Hennessy’s Tavern and Trevor’s at the Tracks, which is moving into Sarducci’s Capistrano Depot.

“It’s really a fun night that celebrates the best of the community,” Bodenhamer said. CD

out Match.com again.

7. I think you are making yourself too available. Back off some.

8. I would hate to see you wait around for her, only to find that she will never change and then have your heart broken again. It’s been four months already.

9. For a relationship to work, each person needs to make the other person a top priority, and that includes from the chemistry standpoint as well.

10. Are you being assertive enough with her? Does she think you aren’t being manly enough?

Here’s a guy in his early 70s, having to worry about stuff he had to worry about as a 20-year-old. Yikes, dating for older singles is challenging.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. His latest book can be found online at, www.smashwords.com/books/view/574810.

See his website at www.findingloveafter60. com(Yes, after 60. Time rolls on.) To comment, email tompblake@gmail.com. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

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SJC LIVING

Visitors to the annual San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival pass by the taverna, which offered Greek wine, beer and spirits. Photo: Allison Jarrell

The Saint Basil dance troupe performed traditional dances from different areas of Greece.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

Opa!

Live Greek music was performed by Takis Kokotas and Alex Galas on the bouzouki—a Greek instrument similar to the mandolin. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Greek Festival brings music, dancing and authentic cuisine to San Juan Capistrano

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he annual San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival, hosted by the Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, took place Friday, Sept. 25 through Sunday, Sept. 27. Community members and visitors attended the free weekend-long event to enjoy and celebrate all aspects of Greek culture and cuisine—from dancing and wine tasting, to Greek pastries and Byzantine art.

Live Greek music was performed by Takis Kokotas and Alex Galas on the bouzouki—a Greek instrument similar to the mandolin. Many attendees participated in Greek dance lessons, and the Saint Basil dance troupe performed traditional dances from different areas of Greece. CD

Alex and Fippi Zeppos of Pennsylvania make traditional loukoumades, or Greek honey balls. The Zeppos were visiting their son and daughter-in-law who live in Coto de Caza. Photo: Allison Jarrell

The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

Page 20

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Excel Electric

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Excel Electric - CA #793860

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Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design

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GARAGE SALES

HELP WANTED

HUGE COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Mission Park San Juan Capistrano, Saturday Oct. 17, 8:00-12:00 Ortega Hwy and Via Córdova/Calle Arroyo and Via Sonora.

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M-F 9am-4pm. Hourly plus commission. Top Reps earn $600-$1200 week. Call Mike 949-367-7845

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HUGE NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE Stratford at the Pacific Community sale... Saturday October 10th 7 AM- 2 PM. Furniture, Sports Equipment, Home Decor, Designer Clothing, Jewelry, Collectibles, and Much Much more! enter community at BLUE SAIL St. DANA POINT ...nearest Cross Streets are DEL OBISPO AND STONEHILL

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ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

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

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools

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The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com Page 19

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

San Juan Hills High School head football coach Aaron Flowers, middle, was honored at the CIF-SS 12th annual Jim Staunton Champions for Character awards dinner on Oct. 2. Photo: Courtesy San Juan Hills athletics

San Juan Prep Football Roundup—Week 6

BY STEVE BREAZEALE AND CONNOR SCHMITT, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

W

eek 5 of the high school football season is in the books, which means league play is about to begin. Four of the five San Juan Capistrano high school programs will enter the second half of the season undefeated. The five area programs hold a combined 21-4 record.

FLOWERS HONORED BY CIF-SS, STALLIONS PREPARE FOR LEAGUE San Juan Hills High School head football coach, teacher and co-athletic director Aaron Flowers was honored by the California Interscholastic FederationSouthern Section at is 12th annual Jim Staunton Champions for Character awards dinner on Oct. 2.

Flowers was among 42 other coaches and student-athletes that were honored for their “exemplification of sportsmanship, character, integrity and athletics,” according to a press release.

Flowers has guided the Stallions football program to an impressive 6-0 record in 2015. The Stallions have defeated quality teams like San Clemente and Los Alamitos and enter the South Coast League as a legitimate threat to challenge for a playoff berth.

San Juan Hills broke into the CIF-SS West Valley Division rankings for the first time in program history several weeks ago. The team is currently ranked sixth in the highly competitive division.

The Capistrano Dispatch October 9–22, 2015

The Stallions are on a bye week following a 61-24 win over Beckman on Oct. 1 and will travel to open league play against El Toro on Oct. 16.

The Stallions are in the midst of a special season, made so in part by the play of their senior quarterback Patrick O’Brien.

O’Brien has thrown for 1,731 yards and has completed 79 percent of his passes.

He has thrown 19 touchdowns to four interceptions and is averaging 59.3 rushing yards per game.

The Stallions have benefitted from other versatile playmakers on both sides of the ball.

Junior receiver Jacob Huff has caught a team-high 50 catches for 879 yards and eight touchdowns. The Stallions running back corps has shined, as Brock Cazel (51 carries, 299 yards), Cole Suchesk (45 carries, 344 yards) and Devin Wegis (23 carries, 172 yards) have all taken turns being the team’s go-to back on a game-togame basis.

The Stallions defense, led by senior linebacker Tim Newman, Cameron Buchanan, and Jason Glass has been stout, allowing just 18.5 points per game.

The Stallions are certainly poised to make noise in the South Coast League and El Toro (4-2) will be the team’s first step toward what could be a special second half of the season. —Steve Breazeale WARRIORS STORM PAST CALVARY CHAPEL The Saddleback Valley Christian foot-

ball team once again lit up the scoreboard against a nonleague opponent as they defeated Calvary Chapel of Santa Ana 5527 on Oct. 2.

The Warriors (5-0) will enter league play with a perfect record.

For Saddleback Valley Christian, the week 5 matchup against the Eagles was more than just a homecoming game. It was the final game before facing their rivals in the San Joaquin League, where the Warriors seek yet another title.

Despite the final score, there were some severe obstacles for the Warriors to overcome against Calvary Chapel. Savai’i Cravens, the team’s star receiver, did not play and missed his first game of the season after leading the team with 12 receptions, 348 yards and four touchdowns through the first four games.

With Cravens out, Saddleback Valley Christian successfully ran the ball for most of the game.

Warriors’ quarterback Cade Henjum, who entered the game with 651 passing yards and 11 touchdowns, escaped the pocket and ran more often than he passed.

He ended the night with 45 rushing yards and a touchdown on 12 rushing attempts and completed four of seven passes for 43 yards and an interception.

Running back Dalton Lohman had a standout offensive performance of his own, rushing for 200 yards and three touchdowns on 12 carries. With Calvary Chapel leading 7-0 early in the first quarter, the Warriors responded with back to back scoring drives, both of which were punctuated by Lohman touchdown runs of 42 and seven yards, respectively.

Lohman scored his third and final rushing touchdown of the night five minutes into the second quarter to give the Warriors a 21-14 lead.

Senior David Molina showed promise on offense, defense, and special teams.

From the safety position, Molina recorded two of the Warriors’ three interceptions and ran one of them back for a touchdown.

As a running back, he rushed 12 times for 112 yards and two touchdowns.

Saddleback Valley Christian was able to put the game out of reach in the third quarter. Following a 14-yard Molina touchdown run, a one-yard scoring run from Ryan DeViso and Molina’s interception return for a touchdown, the Warriors took a commanding 55-19 lead.

The Warriors will open league play against crosstown rivals Capistrano Valley Christian on Oct. 10 at Capistrano Valley High School. —Connor Schmitt OTHER AREA GAMES THIS WEEK Oct. 9: JSerra vs. Servite @Cerritos College, 7 p.m.

Oct. 10: St. Margaret’s vs. Justin-Siena @Justin-Siena High School, 2 p.m.

Page 22

Saddleback Valley Christian’s Spencer Alden spikes the ball against Palos Verdes in an IBVL playoff match on Oct. 7. Photo: Courtesy

SVC Beach Volleyball Team Running Through Playoffs COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

T

he Saddleback Valley Christian boys beach volleyball team is proving to be a tough out.

The team went undefeated in the Interscholastic Beach Volleyball League’s regular season, which ended Oct. 3, and won their first postseason match against Palos Verdes in the opening round of the playoffs on Oct. 7.

The Warriors team won the IBVL’s Orange County High School Beach League’s Orange division with a perfect 13-0 record. Saddleback Valley Christian had to navigate through a league that consisted of San Clemente, Dana Hills and Crean Lutheran.

The Warriors entered the playoffs as the No. 2 overall seed and swept Palos Verdes in three sets. The Warrior duos of Noah Dyer and Spencer Alden, Jacob Pelletier and Jon Minsberg and Trevor O’Reilly and George Dyer all won their matches in two games.

Saddleback Valley Christian will face either Arroyo Grande or Newbury Park in the second round on Oct. 10. The result of the Arroyo Grande-Newbury Park match was unavailable at press time. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com