Go.See.Do. - Summer 2020

The Capistrano Dispatch July 24-August 13, 2020

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thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch July 24-August 13, 2020

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GO. SEE. DO. // SUMMER 2020

WELCOME TO GO. SEE. DO The ongoing COVID-19 health crisis has disrupted many aspects of daily life, but the California summer continues.

Precautions are important as we collectively minimize gatherings and adjust our usual routines. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself in South Orange County, though.

Dana Point Harbor offers plenty of activities and recreational opportunities. We take a look at fun stuff to do on or near the water, whether it’s a SUP afternoon on the water or visiting one of the shops.

We also chatted with some of the best bartenders in the area, to hear about some of their favorite drinks and funny stories. Bars have gone through closings, reopenings, and back again during the pandemic, but when they fully reopen, drop in and hear from them yourselves while grabbing a drink.

We also examine some camping spots and the best sites for antique/ thrift shopping and book shopping.

Wherever you go, we hope you have fun and explore the area safely.

The

BAR

Report

Life as bartenders in and out of the shutdowns

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BY ZACH CAVANAGH

he past few months of the coronavirus pandemic have been tough on many job sectors, but maybe none more so than those in the service and food industries. The nexus of those industries is the occupation of a bartender.

Bars have closed, opened and closed again. Restaurants have closed, shifted to to-go orders, opened and closed indoor dining. Bartenders are caught in the mix of that back and forth by either staying at home, coming back to work or shifting back into the dual role of a server.

Bartenders form close relationships with their regulars, know what they’re looking for and even provide a bit of nightly entertainment along with their drinks. Almost all of that has changed in these few months.

We checked in with a couple of the top bartenders from our annual “Best of” issues – Mary Treadwell of Brio Tuscany Grille in Dana Point and Cole Fairchild of Fine Vines in San Juan Capistrano – to see how they’ve

The Capistrano Dispatch July 24-August 13, 2020

adjusted during this time, what they’re still doing to serve their customers or how their customers have served them: Picket Fence Media: First, how has life been different for you over these last few months of the pandemic?

Mary Treadwell: Well, as a bartender, we’re all basically servers now, because we can’t just serve cocktails. Our customers have been awesome. It’s been fun. We’re all friends, like a family. It’s tough because we can’t have them (the regulars) at the bar with us, because some are older. Now, they come in and ask, “Where are you serving us?”

Cole Fairchild: It’s been both hellish and kind of fun, interesting. On one side of the coin, I don’t think I’ve had people treat me as poorly or had people be as grateful.

We’re trying to follow all the rules and regulations we can to have people be comfortable and have safety. You have people that are worried, and see how far they sit, and our masks, and that we’re scrubbing, and they thank us for going the extra mile. But it’s also such a divisive issue, so people ask what the hell we’re doing, like you’re doing something wrong.

What has been the toughest part about these changes?

Treadwell: The serving hasn’t been tough; it’s been fun. It’s a lot more exercise—I’m inside, outside. I like the challenge, because I like being really busy. I don’t get to see my regulars like I used to, but most of them come in here anyways. I like the interaction.

You get to see them at the table, but being a bartender for as long as I have, it’s differ-

Mary Treadwell Brio Tuscany Grille

Cole Fairchild Fine Vines

ent. We’re getting used to the mask. You’re repeating yourself a lot, but you adapt to anything. If this is the new way of doing things, then this is what we’ll do.

Fairchild: All the regulations. You need to go the extra mile to make sure you’re cleaning between every step. It’s going against 10 years of muscle memory. You’re thinking a lot longer. Everybody’s getting used to the masks. I’ve always been a loud talker, so that works out there. We’re all servers and bussers (at Five Vines), so there hasn’t been too much of a change there. I can’t hug people; always been a huge hugger. The masks, I think it’ll be nice when those are gone. I just don’t want to have that divisive subject between me and the people.

What is a favorite story of yours from your time bartending?

Treadwell: I have this stupid little dance I do. That little plant from the Guardians of the Galaxy, Groot, he stole my dance move.

When I was working here with the band, I do that dance behind the bar, and people laugh with me, and I get everyone to do the dance with me. I miss that. That’s my favorite thing. We even got a 90-year-old man to

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do the dance.

Fairchild: As bad as it sounds, you mostly think of drunk stories. You had someone (get sick . . .) in our janitorial closet and punch our standing mirror. As a wine bar, we only do wine and beer, and people can usually regulate themselves, but it’s so uncommon that those stories stand out.

What do you like about the crowd you get at your establishments?

Treadwell: Everybody here is so normal and just nice people. There are no snooty people. They’re nice, normal, happy people.

We have the greatest customers.

Fairchild: When the nice people come in.

The way we do our thing, our regulars know our names, and you know theirs. You catch up with them, you see them, and you’re happy and you don’t know why. We’re definitely having some folks come back, and they know we’re struggling. The majority of our regulars are the ones going out of their way to support us. They’re making sure we’re going to get through this, and I couldn’t appreciate that more.

Finally, what’s your favorite drink to make?

Treadwell: I make a blood orange margarita with fresh-squeezed orange, lime, vodka and tequila. That’s one I made myself, and people love it.

Fairchild: My favorite thing to pour are the blind flights. Folks come in and tell me what they like, and I can peg them just right.

Their eyes get wide and they say, “What is this?” Sneaking up on people and giving them more than they expected. thecapistranodispatch.com

GO. SEE. DO. // SUMMER 2020

DAY Tripping 5 Fun Day Trips in Southern California

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BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

eed to get away for a day?

As much as we all love our little corner of South Orange County, it’s always nice to wander outside of our usual surroundings and explore other areas nearby that have much to offer by way of culture, cuisine, fun and adventure.

Luckily for us all in sunny Southern California, excitement can be found just about everywhere.

So, let’s explore a few of the many popular hot spots close by that make for perfect day-trip getaways.

> Old Town San Diego

> Redondo Beach

You may be wondering, “Why spend a day in one beach town when we already live in a beach town?” Well, the answer is simple: it’s all about the seafood.

For local seafood lovers who still enjoy spending a day near the ocean, Redondo Beach is an ideal location for a quick day trip in the summertime.

There, you’ll find a handful of seafood markets from which to select your catch for the day.

With the whole family, you can plan a seafood picnic while soaking up some sun and surf.

After you’ve chowed down on some fresh crab, there’s plenty more to explore, including the parks and the Redondo Beach Pier, which features more dining, shops and entertainment. And before going home, the pier is exactly where you’ll want to be to check out a magnificent sunset—the perfect ending to a fun day trip.

If you’re looking to explore some more of Southern California’s rich history of Mexican heritage, culture and sites, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is just a short drive south along the interstate.

Recognized as the birthplace of California, Old Town San Diego offers a snapshot in time as visitors can check out historic buildings and museums that “commemorate the early days of the town of San Diego … allowing you to visit California’s history firsthand,” the city gushes.

While walking around, you’ll be able to see a collection of the 19th century homes and businesses that have been preserved, including old adobe ranch homes, the schoolhouse and graveyard.

For those who enjoy a spooky time, there have been rumors of ghost sightings, particularly around the old Whaley House Museum on San Diego Avenue.

And if you’re craving some delicious Mexican food, Old Town SD certainly won’t disappoint, as it has a handful of restaurant and cantina options that are sure to satisfy your taste buds with flavorful traditional Mexican dishes. Don’t forget to wash down that meal with a traditional margarita—a specialty at many of the eateries.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 24-August 13, 2020

> Orange

For a day trip to the nearby town of Orange, a good place to start—especially for history aficionados—is the Old Towne historic district. The one-square-mile historic district contains many of the buildings and homes that date back to the city’s earliest days.

“With its central Plaza Park, it has been the gathering place for Orange residents and visitors for more than a century,” according to the city, which proclaims that “Old Towne Orange contains the largest Nationally Registered Historic District in California.”

While walking around the plaza, visitors can explore dozens of antique and specialty shops, as well as art galleries, restaurants and cafes.

Though the annual Orange International Street Fair was canceled this year because of the pandemic—for the first time since the popular event’s inception in 1973—there is still plenty to explore.

After a nice long stroll throughout the plaza, you can make your way over to the Outlets at Orange, only a sevenminute drive away, where there are a plethora of opportunities for shopping, dining and entertainment.

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> Pasadena

If you’re really looking to get away from the South Orange County area, then look no further than the quaint city of Pasadena.

Located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles County, the city of Pasadena offers that chic-L.A. vibe without all the hustle and bustle.

No trip to Pasadena is ever complete without visiting Old Pasadena, specifically a stroll along Colorado Boulevard, where you’ll find a plethora of restaurants, bars, shops, art galleries and more.

During your walk about Old Pasadena, you can explore all the various streets branching from Colorado Boulevard to visit shops “off the beaten path,” so to speak.

Along the way, you can stop in some of the many art galleries and museums, including the Armory Center for the Arts.

For lunch, there are several places to choose from, whether you’re craving a burger from Slater’s 50/50, a hot dog from Dog Haus Biergarten or some traditional street tacos from King Taco—an L.A.-based staple.

If it’s something sweet, or chocolatey, you’re desiring, there are bakeries and cafes to satisfy that sweet tooth, such as Mignon Chocolate and Vanilla Bake Shop.

> Anaheim Garden Walk

With 430,000 square feet of open-air entertainment, anyone can easily spend a day at the Anaheim Garden Walk, located a few minutes away from the city’s other popular destinations, including Disneyland Resort and the Anaheim Convention Center.

The Garden Walk wraps in entertainment, dining and shopping all in one location. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy hours of play time by bouncing between the various arcades and gaming centers.

Groups of friends can try their hand at an escape room with Mission Escape Games, engage in virtual reality at Go VR Gaming.

And when businesses can safely reopen, you, along with family or friends can also hit up the Bowlmor Anaheim for some traditional bowling.

After all those games and friendly competition among friends, you’ll likely want to grab a bite to eat. At the Garden Walk, there’s no shortage of food options, which include Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Johnny Rockets and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro.

And with the House of Blues Restaurant & Bar right there, you might want to cap off your day trip with a night of live music and libations. thecapistranodispatch.com

GO. SEE. DO. // SUMMER 2020

Nifty and Thrifty Local Secondhand Stores Offer Unique Finds on a Budget

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BY LILLIAN BOYD

fter two months of closure, Lisa Lavoie is ecstatic to open her doors again for The Pac-Rat, a thrift store in San Clemente.

A history of San Clemente, as well as other vintage items, can be found throughout the business—from Hawaiian shirts to fat-tire bicycles to decorative mirrors. Lavoie has been collecting items and selling assortments for more than two decades.

“I have lived in San Clemente 20 years; I’ve had my store 18 years,” Lavoie has previously said. “We specialize in vintage clothing and jewelry, furniture, accessories and more.”

Due to the state of California’s closure directives in response to the coronavirus pandemic, The Pac-Rat closed on March 13 for about two months. As those restrictions have slightly eased, Lavoie reopened her shop as of May 9 and has implemented a mask requirement for customers, allowing fewer than 10 to shop in the store at a time.

“Most of my customers come to The

The Capistrano Dispatch July 24-August 13, 2020

Pac-Rat looking for unique vintage fashion staples . . . items like high-waisted shorts or a fringe jacket,” Lavoie said. “But now I think people are just happy to be out shopping.”

People can also bring in their items to sell, trade or exchange. Lavoie said her vintage surfboards and clothing are probably the best sellers.

“We always look forward to seeing customers, and we have had regulars for many years,” Lavoie said. “My husband (Kirk) and I love to have garage sales and visit thrift stores. When we walked into our first location, the lady was selling the store, and a few days later we purchased her location and inventory.”

The Pac-Rat moved to its current location at 217 N. El Camino Real in San Clemente in 2016. Now, during a global pandemic, Lavoie says she thinks people are really appreciating the small things in life.

“People are eager to support our local stores,” Lavoie said. “They want to get a great deal, they want a simpler, minimalist lifestyle that thrifting supports. I’m always wheeling and dealing, too. I love to haggle.”

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LOCAL SECONDHAND SHOPS LA TIENDA THRIFT STORE 510 N El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.3510

2ND HAND TREASURES 34272 Doheny Park Road, Dana Point, 949.218.7962

THE SALVATION ARMY FAMILY STORE & DONATION CENTER 2727 Via Cascadita, San Clemente, 949.492.0140

DOHENY CLOTHING EXCHANGE 34276 Doheny Park Road, Capistrano Beach, 949.240.4800

CORAL THRIFT SHOP 534 N El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.2385

LAURA’S HOUSE RESALE STORE 31878 Del Obispo Street, #104, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.6400

OC GOODWILL BOUTIQUE 31892 Plaza Drive, Unit A-1, San Juan Capistrano, 949.272.0505 LIGHTHOUSE THRIFT STORE 34200 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.481.3620

CASA DE KATHY THRIFT STORE 31901 Camino Capistrano, #A, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.8830 KRISSY’S KUBBY 27016 Azul Drive, Capistrano Beach, 949.496.9804

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GO. SEE. DO. // SUMMER 2020

Next

THE

CHAPTER Beach Town Books Adapts to Changes, Offers Haven for Readers

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BY LILLIAN BOYD

ith libraries providing limited access, Beach Town Books in San Clemente is both a resource for your favorite reads and a bookworm sanctuary.

Debbie and Scott Langston took over the business four years ago, and they have since transformed the space into what Debbie calls a “book spa.”

“My greatest joy is creating a space for people to enjoy and to be inspired,” Debbie said. “I own a salon as well, and I’ve tried to emulate that environment inside the bookstore with calm music, good lighting, spacing, wall colors.”

The Capistrano Dispatch July 24-August 13, 2020

When Debbie and Scott took over the business, Scott amended the shelf height, patched up the walls and ceiling, and painted the space with shades of blue along with their daughter.

Since directives from state officials ordered the closure of salons and spas, Debbie has temporarily closed shop at her spa, Sweet Escape, in San Clemente. She’s dedicated more of her hours to the bookstore, which, she says, has transformed her life.

“Because our bookstore offers educational books and texts required for school, we’ve been deemed an essential business, and we’ve been able to keep our business open,” Debbie said. “It was certainly an adjustment in the beginning. We offered private shopping, curbside and delivery. Now we are

open noon to 4 p.m. every day.”

Beach Town Books allows for customers to bring used books in for store credit. Once store credit is issued, you may use your store credit toward 50% of your purchase (except new and vintage items). For example, if you have $20 of store credit, and you bring books up to the counter that cost a total of $10, the store will deduct $5 from your bill, and you will pay $5.40 with tax and have a remaining store credit of $15. Beach Town Books also uses the Fivestars program for customers to check in during their purchase and earn rewards and monthly deals.

“We issue store credit for items we can sell, either at the store or online,” Debbie said. “This decision is based on the quality

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and quantity of the items you bring in, the inventory that we have, and the frequency of requests for those items.”

Debbie says she has been able to find the silver linings in the circumstances of current events.

“My approach to running a spa and running a bookstore is similar: If my clients or customers are happy and talking and connecting, then I know I’ve done my job,” Debbie said. “When I see people enjoying a space I’ve created for them, nothing brings me more joy.”

Beach Town Books is located at 99 Avenida Serra, San Clemente. For more information, call 949.492.1114 or visit beachtownbooks.com.

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GO. SEE. DO. // SUMMER 2020

OC’S PERFECT CAMPING SPOTS TO EXPLORE NATURE

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BY COSTA BEAVIN-PAPPAS

n the midst of COVID-19, groups are flocking to local state parks. The parks bring an affordable option for families to enjoy a miniature vacation while staying close to nature and away from crowds. The following are some of the most popular campsites in Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

SAN CLEMENTE’S HOLIDAYS VINTAGE TRAILERS 225 Avenida Califia, San Clemente

San Clemente State Beach has another option for camping: renting a trailer. The trailer is on a coastal bluff not far away from the sand, which makes it perfect for photographers and explorers of all ages. Each of the trailers has their own unique vintage design and amenities, which enables campers to choose the perfect trailer for them. For more information, visit theholidaysca.com.

DANA POINT’S DOHENY STATE BEACH

25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point

Doheny State Beach is a popular attraction that attracts a million visitors annually. The northern part of the beach brings surfers, and the southern part has a campsite available. The beach has tide pools and a fiveacre lawn perfect for picnics with friends and family. The beach currently has limited parking options available, so visitors are urged to bike or walk to the park. For more information on booking a campground, visit reservecalifornia.com.

SAN CLEMENTE STATE BEACH 225 Avenida Califia, San Clemente

Camp out at San Clemente State Beach and find yourself under the stars. The spot is popular among surfers for its incredible bluffs and surf spots. For those who are interested, check out reservecalifornia.com.

SAN ONOFRE’S SAN MATEO CAMPGROUND 830 Cristianitos Rd, San Clemente

A little outside San Clemente is a campground with a series of options perfect for any family that wants to camp. There are sleeping tents available for rental, along with RVs. The campground has food options nearby, ranging from The Sugar Shack to Pedro’s Tacos, which makes for a fun combination. The price for a night starts at around $40, which can be a little expensive for some, but the bonfire pits at each campground are great for making campfire memories. For more information, call 949.361.2531 or visit reservecalifornia.com.

RONALD W. CASPERS WILDERNESS PARK

33401 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano

Located in San Juan Capistrano, this 8,000acre wildlife preserve has beautiful sites for campers to explore. There are river streams and amazing opportunities to spot wildlife. Whether you are there for a walk along the nature trails or for a night under the stars, it is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. For more information, visit ocparks.com

Even though state parks are open, social distancing guidelines and regulations are still in effect. For further information, please visit parks.ca.gov/covid19camping.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 24-August 13, 2020

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10 GO. SEE. DO. // SUMMER 2020

‘Gotta-Dos’

in Dana Point Harbor

BY COLLIN BREAUX

Dana Point Harbor is the ideal place to enjoy the amazing summer weather, whether you’re paddleboarding on the water, grabbing some ice cream or just walking around. There are plenty of activities to do while you’re down in the harbor. Here are 10 of them: 1 / STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a popular activity when you’re on the water.

It is a fun way to explore the water, observe sea lions up close, as well as relax during the summer months. It’s also a deceptively thorough core workout. Take off from Baby Beach and head over to the jetties. SUP offers a different view of the harbor and gives you a chance to meet other water enthusiasts. SUP rentals are available at Pure Watersports in Dana Point. Check out their website at purewatersports.com, or their Facebook page, for more information.

In addition, iHeartYoga offers SUP yoga on the second Saturday of every month; check their website at iheartyoga.com for more information.

Photo: Carla Mitroff, Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

2 / TAKE THE KIDS TO BABY BEACH If you don’t want to paddleboard out on the water, you can instead relax on the sand at Baby Beach. Baby Beach offers a nice spot to relax during the weekend and is a kid-friendly spot popular with local families. It might be best to grab a spot early on the weekends, since Baby Beach can get quickly crowded.

Grill Restaurant or Beach Harbor Pizza.

Restaurants are offering outdoor and waterside dining opportunities. If you’re more in the mood for something like ice cream, duck into Scoop Deck at Coffee Importers. You can order a few scoops and enjoy it on the outdoor patio, watching passing pedestrians and boats.

3 / GO WHALE WATCHING OR SPORTFISHING Dana Point is famous for its opportunities to see whales. Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari and Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching are offering reduced capacity whale watching trips to experience blue whales, humpback whales, and more, as noted in a press release from Dana Point Harbor.

Dana Wharf also offers fishing opportunities in varying lengths, whether you want to devote a part of the day, all day, or overnight. Masks are required.

Visit their websites at dolphinsafari.com or danawharf.com for more information.

6 / TAKE A BOAT CRUISE It’s a harbor, after all, and boating is the area’s calling card. Boaters can reserve a guest slip at The Marina at Dana Point and use code “SEA2020” to receive 20% off their reservation. Visit their website at themarinaatdanapoint.com for more information. OC Ocean Adventures also offers an Orange County Wine Cruise, billed as a “90-minute evening cruise aboard our luxury catamaran.” Read more about it at ococeanadventures.com.

4 / ENJOY LIVE MUSIC Live performances are scheduled every Thursday through July at The Wharf Courtyard near Frisby Cellars Winery and Jon’s Fish Market from 4-6 p.m.

Country pop artist Olivia Ooms will take the stage on July 30.

5 / EAT OUT AND ENJOY RESTAURANTS Dana Point Harbor has plenty of spots to chow down, whether it’s Harbor The Capistrano Dispatch July 24-August 13, 2020

7 / GO SHOPPING A variety of shops in Dana Point Harbor will cater to your creative side. Stop in at Bella Bazaar and check out their coastalthemed clothing and décor. If you’re in the mood for jewelry, check out Harbor Jeweler, which features sparkling accessories and offers watch repair services. They also can do appraisals—as their website notes, they have a “keen, trained eye for details.”

8 / TAKE SAILING LESSONS Want a bit of a different water experience? Try your hand at sailing. Aventura Sailing offers sailing lessons if you’re new to the activity or want to brush up on some details. “Over the years, more than 7,000 students have taken courses with Aventura Sailing and learned to cruise and race safely and proficiently,” their website said. Learn more at aventurasailing.com.

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9 / GO PARASAILING Parasailing is a fun way to get a bird’s-eye view of Dana Point Harbor. Best of all, it’s a safe and easy way to cruise through the air.

Check out the sea creatures and people from up high with Dana Point Parasail, at the Dana Wharf Sport Sportfishing and Whale Watching building. Visit danapointparasail.com to learn more.

10 / SPEND A DAY WITH THE OCEAN INSTITUTE The Ocean Institute is well-known as an educational and community-based place for kids, educators, families and visitors.

While they’ve had to modify operations due to the pandemic, the learning and fun are continuing. Whale and marine life tours are still available. Bioluminescence night cruises will be available on select weekends through September if you want to learn about and see how marine animals can glow in the dark.

Birthday parties can be scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on most Saturdays and Sundays, so if you want to book an Institute Birthday Party Package, call 949.496.2274, ext. 369.

Virtual learning and tour opportunities are also available.

As for people mourning the iconic Pilgrim tallship that recently sank, the Ocean Institute will continue the legacy that the Pilgrim established aboard the Spirit of Dana Point, and also plan to honor the memory of the Pilgrim by displaying artifacts and images at the Institute.

Visit ocean-institute.org for more information on activities and hours.

Editor’s note: This information could change as pandemic conditions evolve. thecapistranodispatch.com