The Capistrano Dispatch

YOUR BEST SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

M A R C H 2 5 – A P R I L 7, 2 0 1 1 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 6

Celebrating the Swallows 53rd Parade set for Saturday SPECIAL INSERT

Nearly 3,225 people are expected to participate in the Swallows Day Parade in downtown San Juan Capistrano.

Photo by Scott Schmitt, San Juan Photo and Digital.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

2011 Swallows Day Event Guide and Parade Lineup

Chevron to Pay City up to $3.1 Million for MTBE

Feds Deny Juaneños’ Official Recognition

INSIDE

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 4

EYE ON SJC

1

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SAN CLEMENTE After the defeat of Measure A, backers of a park at North Beach started work promoting their concept. Led by Vonne and Tom Barnes, the group hopes to carve out what they call Ole Hanson Beach Park from 27 parking spots from the triangle area of the North Beach lot. More parking would be created in the city-owned lot between Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant and Kaylani Coffee Company. The group says its proposed park will take up less than one third the space that the now-rejected Playa Del Norte project, according to their website. The beach park would create a level grassy area with benches, picnic tables, trees and a monument to the city’s founder.

They’re also pitching construction of a café.

Park backers want to use the estimated $9 million in the city’s beach parking fund.

NEWS

NEXT DOOR W H AT ’ S G O I N G O N I N OUR NEIGHBORING TOW N S

DANA POINT Beach Cities Collective and co-owner David Lambert will have to pay $2.4 million for illegally running a marijuana dispensary in Capo Beach. On March 16, Judge William Monroe signed the city’s proposed order that, among other fines, Beach Cities and Lambert each be fined $2,500 a day for every day the shop was open—479 days total—on Calle Hermosa.

The city challenged that the collective was operating illegally in a residential neighborhood without proper permits. After the initial ruling that permanently shut down the collective, Lambert told the DP Times he planned to appeal the decision. Last week, the building owner David Sales and Lambert’s business partner Timothy Loach both signed settlements agreeing not to engage in marijuana activities or face civil penalties of nearly $1.2 million each.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

1

…A Chevron Settlement?

THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano will receive up to $3.1 million in the settlement of a three-year dispute with Chevron over how to clean up MTBE in the city’s groundwater supply.

Mayor Sam Allevato announced the settlement March 14. The city receives $1.5 million upfront and $1.6 million as it meets benchmarks in cleaning up the potentially carcinogenic chemical, MTBE. The amount of MTBE found in the water was below state and federal limits, but had caused outrage among Capistrano leaders and residents. The city invested more than $25 million in a groundwater recovery plant that makes the water in the San Juan Basin suitable for Capistrano residents.

The plant is intended to provide 50 percent of the city’s water needs in the summer and 100 percent in the winter, but the MTBE forced the city to shut down the largest well that feeds the plant. That forced the city to pay more for imported water.

Five months ago, the city said the MTBE issue had cost Capistrano taxpayers nearly $5 million.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city will build a treatment plant that will scrub the groundwater while Chevron will clean the spill under the direction of the Regional Water Quality Control Board.

FIND OUT MORE: See more, including the settlement, at www.thecapistranodispatch. com —Jonathan Volzke

2

…In-N-Out Under Study?

THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council on March 14 told staff to go ahead The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

with planning a potential In-N-Out Burger drive-through on the former Sizzler location on Del Obispo Street.

The action does not greenlight a restaurant in that location, only directs staff to move forward with necessary studies and public meetings before the project is considered for approval. The Planning Commission can ultimately approve the project, unless that decision is appealed to the City Council.

In-N-Out Burger wants to build a 3,700-square-foot fast-food restaurant on a 45,900-square-foot parcel.

“This is one of the better locations for a drive-through,” Mayor Sam Allevato said, noting the parcel is accessed off a feeder street, Forster, instead of Del Obispo Street directly.

The council approved the measure 4-1.

Only Councilwoman Laura Freese voted “no,” saying In-N-Out wouldn’t fit her vision for the downtown and would create more traffic.

WHAT’S NEXT: Planning Director Grant Taylor said technical reviews are underway and public hearings could begin in May or June.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.thecapistranodispatch.com —JV

3

…No Daytime Curfew?

THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council on Tuesday rejected a proposed daytime ordinance for minors, saying existing laws could already address the problem.

Those against the proposal wore name tags that had a red line through “daytime curfew” while students wore name tags that read “potential suspect.”

Those who spoke against it said

home-school students and other minors have legitimate reasons to be on the streets during the day, and they feared their children would be harassed by sheriff’s deputies for being out.

“I don’t want to punish good kids along with bad kids, and I’m afraid that is what this would do,” Councilwoman Laura Freese said.

Under the proposed ordinance, minors spotted in public between 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on school days would have been breaking the law—and their parents could have been held responsible.

WHAT’S NEXT: Deputies will continue to patrol schools.

FIND OUT MORE: See the staff report at www.thecapistranodispatch.com —JV

4

…More Rancor at CUSD?

THE LATEST: The schism in the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Education has grown wider than ever, as two board members announced this month they have hired their own attorney over alleged open-meeting violations.

Even though an attorney hired by the district to specifically look into the issue said he saw no wrongdoing, Trustees Ellen Addonizio and Sue Palazzo left the dais before the board again voted to restore two teaching days and some of the teachers’ salaries cut in the last contract.

District officials said the moves were required because of language in the contract that required the restoration when “triggers” were met. Addonizio and Palazzo questioned whether the triggers were met and whether the district acted improperly by not approving the moves in public.

The trustees, while not admitting anything wrong in how they handled the

Page 3

issue, took the vote in public anyhow. It was 5-0, with Addonizo and Palazzo out of the building. Their attorney, Craig Alexander, asked in a letter that the district pay him for his work on behalf of the two trustees. That has not been formally considered.

WHAT’S NEXT: Trustees were scheduled to meet in a special session to discuss board protocols and decorum, among other things, on Wednesday. The next regular meeting is April 12.

FIND OUT MORE: See the Beyond the Blackboard blog at www.sanclementetimes.com for more and to see Alexander’s letter. —JV

5

…Barring Molesters from County Areas?

THE LATEST: Registered sex offenders will be barred from county parks and other areas under an ordinance considered by supervisors this week.

Violators could be punished with up to six months in jail, and a $500 fine or both.

Supervisor Patricia Bates, who represents, supported the so-called “child-safety zone” measure at a board meeting this week, but has logistical concerns, such as how the ordinance would apply to incoming boaters at Dana Point Harbor, as well as a clause that would allow the county parks director to grant waivers. That authority, she said, she be with law-enforcement officials.

WHAT’S NEXT: The adjusted measure is expected to return to the Board of Supervisors at its next meeting, April 5.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.ocgov.com —JV www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Eye on SJC

Juaneños’ Bid for Recognition Denied Federal government says group has not functioned like tribe

By Jonathan Volzke The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he Juaneño Band of Mission Indians’ 30-year bid to gain federal recognition has been denied, federal officials announced March 16.

The decision from the federal Department of the Interior, Indian Affairs comes four years after a preliminary report ruled the San Juan Capistrano-based tribe could not prove members lineage back to a historical tribe and had remained a governed group since then.

Wednesday’s ruling indicates the tribe could not make progress in proving the same four areas: That external observers have continually identified the tribe since 1900; that the tribe has maintained political influence over its members; that members descended from a historical Indian tribe at Mission San Juan Capistrano.

The ruling covers both factions of Juaneños that had submitted applications for federal recognition, said Nedra Darling, the Indian Affairs spokeswoman.

The federal government said the tribe included 1,940 members. But the letter from Assistant Secretary–Indian Affairs Larry Echo Hawk says that just 61 percent of those members could be shown to have descended from the historical Indian tribe at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Additionally, the letter says, the tribe could not prove it maintained political influence over the membership since 1835, and, moreover, that the tribe only demonstrated its “continuous existence” since 1997—far short of the required period from 1900.

Finally, the letter says evidence shows the distinct Indian community in Capistrano only existed to 1862.

Tribal leaders, including Chief Anthony Rivera, said they will appeal. Although Juaneños are spread throughout Southern California, Mission San Juan Capistrano is their spiritual center.

But the Juaneños have split over the years, often in publicized battles. When the city of San Juan Capistrano invited two factions to the opening of a park in the Los Rios Historical District last year, Rivera’s group heckled and mocked the other group while its members were leading a Native prayer.

In another case, when Mission San Juan Capistrano improperly built a fountain and parklike area over what was identified in historic maps as a cemetery, one faction protested, while Rivera’s group sided with the Mission.

Similar battles took place over the construction of JSerra High School and the planned extension of the 241 South Foothill Transportation Corridor.

Some members took the federal rejection as an opportunity to jab at Rivera, while asking for reconciliation at the same time.

“The determination decision did not come as a surprise. How can criteria be met when the ‘leadership’ decides that those who play by his rules can stay and those who don’t are dis-enrolled...perhaps the federal government recognized that,” said a statement by the Nieblas family who did not follow Rivera. “We, as a tribe and our leadership should look inward and reflect on what has come to pass today. We all need to realize that neither the federal government nor Anthony Rivera can define who we are as a people. Our ancestors, our hearts, souls and spirits define us. It will be inner-strength that will cause us to move forward from here. We are strong, we are proud. We are Juaneño. That will never change.”

The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

Federal recognition would have allowed the tribe to own land and essentially function as its own government.

“The Tribe is very disappointed that the AS-IA and the Office of Federal Acknowledgment (OFA) failed to properly evaluate the thousands of pieces of evidence the Tribe had presented. This is a great and continued injustice to the Acjachemen Tribe,” Rivera said in a statement. “Based on the thousands of pages of credible evidence, the Tribe will move ahead over the next stage to evaluate the OFA’s conclusions and prepare to appeal the inaccurate decision.”

The statement said the tribe submitted “thousands of pieces of credible evidence” over the last 29 years under the federal regulations as the basis for the fact that the Tribe had “completely complied” with all seven criteria for federal acknowledgement.

Rivera’s statement said the evidence contained more than 100,000 pieces of evidence that proved the existence of the Acjachemen Nation, leaders, and people since 1776 to the present, the existence of an Acjachemen community that governed itself since 1776 to present, official history written by Rivera and other experts of the Acjachemen Nation from 1776 to present, and evidence that all enrolled Acjachemen Indians descend directly from these historic Acjachemen Indians.

The seven requirements for federal recognition are: A. That external observers have identified the petitioner as an American Indian entity on substantially continuous basis since 1900; B. That a predominant portion of the petitioning group has comprised a distinct community since historical times; C. That the petitioning group has maintained political influence over its members as an autonomous entity since historical times; D. That the petitioner provide a copy of its governing document;

E. That the petitioner’s members descend from a historical Indian tribe; F. That a petitioner’s membership be composed principally of people not members of another federally recognized tribe; G. That the petitioner not be subject to legislation forbidding the federal relationship.

The June 2007 proposed finding says the Juaneños failed to qualify on A, B, C and E. Since then, the tribe submitted a new tribal roll—excluding some members who appeared on the earlier list—and other documentation.

It was unclear Wednesday which of the seven criteria were found unsubstantiated in the new ruling.

Juaneño Tribal Elders include prominent Capistrano community members such as Rosalind Rodman Kosack, SJC Patriarch Thomas “Happy” Hunn, Teeter Romero, Wick Lobo, Barbara Banda, Louis Yorba, Jeannette Olivares McGreggor, Marian Walkingstick, Adolph Olivares, Clarence H. Lobo, Jr., and many more. The Juaneño Elders still bear the names of historic San Juan Capistrano families and bring significant heritage and memory to the Juaneño Tribe based on decades of experiences at the Mission, Mission School, and Old Mission Cemetery.

Other historic Juaneño families enrolled and supporting with the Tribe include Rios, Dorams, Sommers, Ricardes, McMullens, Wandells, Valenzuelas, Lopez, Hunns, McMinns, Yorbas, Garcias, Carrillos, Wattenburgs, and many more historic Juaneño families. These historic Acjachemen families continue to be denied their rights to Indian health care, Indian educational opportunities, Indian housing services, and protections of Indian sovereignty.

Some 565 American Indian and Alaska Native tribes have gained federal recognition, encompassing 1.9 million people.

See the letter from the Department of the Interior at www.thecapistranodispatch.com CD

City Planning Community Birthday Party on April 9 The Capistrano Dispatch

T

he city is looking for non-profit groups to help celebrate San Juan Capistrano’s 50th birthday at a celebration at Historic Town Center Park on April 9.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 31852 El Camino Real and includes live music, food, games for kids, a family scavenger hunt and the Second Saturday Art Fair.

Booth space is available for 10 to 15 nonprofit organizations to promote their function and provide a family activity—such as a game or craft. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is available by contacting Heidi Ivanoff at hivanoff@ sanjuancapistrano.org or 949.493.5911.

Additionally, the city’s 50th Birthday Celebration

Page 4

Committee has launched the “Paving the Future” program—offering the public a chance to become a permanent part of San Juan Capistrano history by purchasing a personalized paver that will be installed as part of the city’s 50th Birthday Celebration.

Pavers will be installed in Historic Town Center Park off El Camino Real beginning this spring. Folks can commemorate the year they moved to San Juan Capistrano; celebrate their family or honor a loved one. Cost is $250 and is 100 percent tax deductible.

To see the form, visit the city’s 50th Anniversary web page at www.sanjuancapistrano.org. Forms are also available at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto and at the Historical Society, 31831 Los Rios.

San Juan Capistrano was incorporated on April 19, 1961 and will celebrate that milestone throughout the year. CD

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Eye on SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter C o m p i l e d b y J O N AT H A N V O L Z K E All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Web site (www.ocsd.org) and reflects data available from calls placed from the field by the responding officer(s). An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

Monday, March 21 ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Calle Chueca, 30700 Block (12:46 a.m.)

A woman was at Mission Hospital in critical condition. The hospital asked deputies to let her daughter know.

Sunday, March 20 TRAFFIC HAZARD Ortega Highway/Rancho Viejo Road (11:37 p.m.) A deputy discovered the stop light wasn’t working. The power was on, but there was a problem in the control box. Caltrans said they’d call back when they could get someone out. The deputy set flares and temporary stop signs.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Ortega Highway/La Novia Avenue (7:05 p.m.) A tree was down, partially blocking lanes.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano/Forster Street (5:24 p.m.) A man was punched in the face by someone he knew. It was for no reason, he reported.

Saturday, March 19 La Zanja Street, 26500 Block (9:06 p.m.)

A man yelling and throwing things at people.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 33100 Block (8:51 p.m.) A customer was being detained outside a music venue, and they weren’t cooperating. The subject left, though, before deputies arrived and the business didn’t want to press charges.

WIRELESS 9-1-1 Camino Capistrano, 31400 Block (6:39 p.m.) A man was insulting people on the soccer field and a caller didn’t want it to get out of hand.

DISTURBANCE The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

Calle Santa Barbara, 26500 Block (3:17 p.m.) Someone complained about music and noise from two parked trucks. A resident was working on his vehicle.

FOUND PROPERTY Alipaz Street/Via Positiva (2:14 p.m.)

A 13-year-old found a purse and paperwork and turned it in.

DISTURBANCE Oso Road/Camino Capistrano (12:56 p.m.) Two subjects were shooting paintballs on a city trail.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 31700 Block (11:45 a.m.) A shopkeeper called about a homeless man causing repeated problems. Deputies took the man into custody. He told them he was a producer.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE San Juan Creek Road/Avenida La Mancha (11:51 p.m.) A car was holding up vehicles trying to get into a gated community. Some callers reported someone slumped over the steering wheel. A 20-year-old saleswoman was taken into custody.

Friday, March 18 ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Calle San Diego, 31000 Block (7:33 p.m.) Deputies were called to help in a child-endangerment investigation.

DISTURBANCE Calle Delphina, 26500 Block (5:58 p.m.)

A woman reported her ex-boyfriend snatched a bike part out of her hand. A 19-year-old man was taken into custody.

He said he was unemployed.

ILLEGAL PEDDLING Edgewood Road/Village Road (4:16 p.m.) Someone was selling oranges out of a truck.

been knocking on the door for an hour.

Thursday, March 17 ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Via La Jolla/Avenida California (11:12 p.m.) A Newport Beach police officer needed to get into a gated community.

DRUNK IN CAR Camino Capistrano/Del Obispo Street (3:48 p.m.) A caller reported a car was stopped in the left turn lane at Del Obispo and Camino Cap. A woman inside was slumped over the wheel.

Deputies moved the car and arrested the driver, a 49-year-old woman. She said she was a teacher.

MISSING CHILD El Camino Real, 31600 Block (2:49 p.m.) Deputies were called in when a girl was reported missing. Her brother was supposed to pick her up, but said she never got off the bus. The principal said she did. The girl was eventually found with her mother.

PEDESTRIAN CHECK El Camino Real/Spring Street (11:31 a.m.) Deputies were asked to check on a man riding a scooter wearing a blue hooded sweater, black shoes and “tidy whities.” Deputies, who’d received a similar call a day earlier, gave the man a ride home.

Wednesday, March 16 DRUNK IN PUBLIC Del Obispo Street/Via Vermeulen (8:03 p.m.) A woman was reported walking down the street, stumbling and yelling at people. She got a room at a local motel and slept it off.

DISTURBANCE Purple Sage, 25500 Block (6:19 p.m.)

A man reported a woman was trying to get into his home and was being argumentative with him. He knew who she was.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Ridge Road, 29400 Block (12:02 p.m.)

Deputies helped investigate whether a man rammed his ex-wife’s vehicle with his car. No arrests were reported.

DISTURBANCE Via San Vicente/Via El Socorro (11:09 a.m.) A woman was collecting cans from the trash and putting them in a baby carriage.

DEFRAUDING AN INNKEEPER Verdugo Street, 26700 Block (9:15 a.m.)

A man wouldn’t pay his fare on the train.

DISTURBANCE Calle Dephina, 26500 Block (7:54 a.m.)

A woman reported her ex-boyfriend had

WELFARE CHECK Via Belardes, 31900 Block (6:07 p.m.)

A neighbor reported hearing a woman screaming, twice.

PETTY THEFT Via Positiva, 0 Block (5:06 p.m.) A man ran away with another man’s cellular phone.

DISTURBANCE Paseo Santa Clara, 26500 Block (3:29 p.m.) A caller reported six men were trying to start a fight with him because they thought he was hiding someone in his home.

Page 6

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Paseo Adelanto, 32400 Block (2:07 p.m.)

A passer-by spotted someone tossing two large trash bags into the creek by the Dance Hall. That’s the sheriff’s substation now.

CITIZEN ASSIST Rancho Viejo Road, 30200 Block (11:26 a.m.) Deputies were called to help with a child who was being bullied at school.

Tuesday, March 15 WELFARE CHECK Ortega Highway, 26800 Block (7:46 p.m.)

A restaurant called when a woman who was in last week, and left without paying her bill, came back. The caller said the woman seemed disoriented.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Verdugo Street, 26700 Block (6:42 p.m.)

Two men jumped on the train, then jumped off. Deputies found them. At least one had an out-of-state warrant, but it wasn’t something they’d extradite for.

Monday, March 14 BATTERY Paseo Adelanto, 32500 Block (7:46 p.m.)

A 14-year-old reported he was jumped by two other teens. One had blonde hair, the other a shaved head.

DISTURBANCE Paseo Del Lucero, 32900 Block (12:42 p.m.)

A woman reported her ex-boyfriend was banging on her door and calling her names.

He’d arrived on a red bicycle.

Sunday, March 13 VANDALISM Via Solis, 25600 Block (5:43 p.m.) A neighbor suspected a neighbor because of parking disputes.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Via La Pluma, 33100 Block (12:26 p.m.)

A resident reported a man knocked on his door and asked for a ride to Arizona.

Friday, March 12 DISTURBANCE Via Santo Tomas, 31100 Block (10:15 p.m.)Some kids were playing outside and making noise.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Laurelwood Lane, 26300 Block (7:48 p.m.) Firefighters summoned because a 10-year-old child had stomach pains and was bleeding from the nose called deputies because no parent was home. His older brother, a 15-year-old, said he fell on the boy. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

HOW TO REACH US EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Jonathan Volzke, 949.388.7700, x108 jvolzke@thecapistranodispatch.com ADVERTISING

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 9, Issue 6. 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 2011. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA CEO > Norb Garrett

PRINT AND ONLINE

Sergio Sanchez, 949.388.7700, x104 ssanchez@thecapistranodispatch.com Buddy Purel, 949.234.1284 bpurel@thecapistranodispatch.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@thecapistranodispatch.com BILLING Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@thecapistranodispatch.com

EDITORIAL Group Editor, Editor, The Dispatch > Jonathan Volzke City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne City Editor, SC Times > Stacie N. Galang ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Heidi Mefferd

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Sergio Sanchez (San Juan Capistrano) Sales Associates > Angela Edwards > Buddy Purel OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed

A Misguided Referendum

T

The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne INTERNS Pantea Mohajer SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, George Mackin CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, Christina Scannapiego, David Zimmerle

ONLINE POLL

MARK NIELSEN: Straight Talk

he referendum to overturn the Distrito La Novia development has from its inception been driven by arguments that are simMark Nielsen ply untrue. Some of the opposition is in reality a smokescreen for those opposed to enhancing our equestrian facilities (even though the closest of those complaining are at least a quarter mile away from the proposed new horse stables).

They claim that the city is changing the rules after they bought their homes by allowing a change to the General Plan. What they fail to mention is that the General Plan change has absolutely nothing to do with the equestrian facility.

The General Plan amendment merely changes the old hotel site at Valle and La Novia from a very specific zoning that only allows a 300 room hotel being built, to a more flexible zoning allowing a mix of commercial and residential. Tying the General Plan change to the equestrian facility is just plain wrong, yet those opposed knowingly keep using this argument.

Other opponents likely believe that saying no means that the status quo will remain and nothing will be built. Unfortunately, that is highly unlikely. Unlike the 2006 golf course referendum (of which I was a leader), this referendum is not about open space being converted to high-density development. Instead, this is about land that is zoned for development and is already approved for 440 homes. Those 440 homes could be built tomorrow and the city would have no ability to stop it. The alternative, which the referendum is trying to overturn, is actually a greatly reduced project on the

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Meadows side that I fought for while on the City Council. Instead of 440 homes on 135 acres, it is only 94 homes and a new equestrian stable. Across the street, instead of a massive hotel and church or other facility, there will be 130 residential units along with a new market, boutique retail and a small office building.

Overall, the project reduces the number of residences by over 200 and increases the acreage of open space that will forever remain well beyond that which we would have under the original plan approved in 1998.

• Does the city have to pay anything or incur debt in order to get this reduced project? No. If anything, the city will gain literally millions of dollars of new tax revenue, as well as major improvements, such as the realignment of the I-5 off ramp at Valle and La Novia, at no cost to our taxpayers.

• Will this project be denser than the 440 home development project previously approved? No. In fact, the FAR (Floor Area Ratio which is a measure of building density) is only .28 compared to the General Plan allowed maximum of .40 • Is the city violating any property rights of the citizens by its approval of this plan? No. Does anyone seriously think you have a right to control the development on land over a quarter mile away from your property?

• Will there be a four-story parking lot that will be higher than other structures in town? No. The parking garage only has about two stories visible above ground. Additional parking is buried underground.

• Does the approval of this project automatically grant the developer the ability to build a 500-horse stable? No. Horse stables require a Conditional Use

Permit (CUP) which means even if the project is approved; the equestrian facility must still go through a separate set of hearings and approvals in the future.

And relative to the equestrian component, the developer could seek a CUP for stables even under the current 440-home approved plan without any General Plan or zoning change.

However I view the equestrian component from a different perspective.

If we are truly serious about San Juan Capistrano remaining an equestrian community far into the future, we need to recognize the very real trend that the State and Federal agencies are imposing more regulations that over time will likely force out or severely curtail the equestrian facilities along the creeks. In the face of these trends, we need to look for opportunities to encourage stables on private land away from the creeks.

This property is unique in that it is large enough to easily accommodate a stable that will equal our town’s largest stables today in an area that is removed from existing homes on three sides. In addition, any stable will need to meet very stringent standards that were non-existent when our current stables were built.

Such a high-end equestrian facility will

Page 8

Make sure to sound off each week on “The Dispatch Poll of the Week” at www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

Then go to our community Message Board and share your opinions.

The Dispatch Online Reader Polls are notscientific and do not reflect the opinion of The Dispatch.

increase the value of nearby properties, a fact reflected by history as well as similar situations elsewhere in the state.

I have seen some mis-informed letters to the editor that claim this referendum is about stopping the development of our open space. If that were the case, I would be leading the charge to stop the project as I have done twice before on projects that truly were General Plan changes causing us to lose open space. Instead, advocates of this referendum want to have you vote for more density of development, less open space and millions of dollars less in tax revenue to the city. I just don’t see the logic. There seems to be some other agenda, as I think most of our citizens will vote YES for reducing development, enhancing our equestrian character and increasing open space. I know I will.

Mark Nielsen is a local businessman who was Mayor of San Juan Capistrano in 2009.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@thecapistranodispatch.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624.

The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

YOUR TWO-WEEK EVENT PLANNER

THE LIST

A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town this week. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

friday

HOOSEGOW DAY 9 a.m.4 p.m. Annual event held throughout downtown San Juan Capistrano where Fiesta Association sheriff and deputies search the city and “arrest” anyone not dressed in western attire or any man who is clean shaven.

Information: www.swallowsparade.org.

25

HOOSEGOW AT SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m. Live music by Grand Junction and at 7:30 p.m. Doo Wah riders perform. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

FRANK SINATRA TRIBUTE WITH JOHN SLOAN 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Vintage Steak House.

26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3407, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

saturday

BASICS OF GARDEN DESIGN 9 a.m. Learn how to design your dream garden with expert Cristin Fusano at Plant Depot. Free class. 33413 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.2107, www.plantdepot.com.

26

KAMAKA BROWN 8 p.m.-10 p.m. Hawaiian comedian performs at Hulaville. Tickets $5. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com.

SWALLOW’S DAY BANDS AT SWALLOW’S INN 12 p.m.-late. Family Style play outside; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Dalton Gang and Blue Fish play inside; and at nighttime Will Glover Band plays inside. 31786 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

MARIACHIS AT THE MISSION 2 p.m. Mission SJC presents live Mariachi music in the courtyard in conjunction with the Swallow’s Day Parade. Free with admission of $5$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

GO.SEE.DO CAPISTRANO CELEBRATES THE SWALLOWS Some say the swallows don’t come back to Capistrano anymore, but that doesn’t stop the town from gathering to throw one heck of party, complete with one of the largest nonmotorized parades in the country. And this year, the 53rd annual Swallows’ Day Parade and Mercado is taking place Saturday, March 26 along the streets of downtown San Juan Capistrano. The parade features 182 entrants this year, including the 1st Marine Division Band and Marines from Capistrano’s adopted battalion, the 1/11. The Mercado, with food and shopping, runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The parade starts at 11 a.m., but the main streets close an hour earlier. Some are shut down as early as 6 a.m., so the key for visitors is to use the Swallows’ Parade Shuttle Bus, which will be available at the Endevco and Fluidmaster parking lots. Both are on Rancho Viejo Road, east of the freeway and between Ortega Highway and Junipero Serra Road. This year, the service is also available at the File photo San Juan Capistrano Community Center and Sports Park (off Camino Del Avion near Del Obispo). The shuttle runs from 8 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. and is $2 round-trip for adults; children 12 and under are free. It drops you off by the Woman’s Club on El Horno, where the annual pancake breakfast is held from 6 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. For more information about the parade, visit the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association’s website at www.swallowsparade.com.

And as for the swallows, locals know to look for them around the city’s creeks. —Jonathan Volzke

COMMON SENSE 8 p.m. Reggae-rock band headlines at The Coach House. Also with Worm & the Night Crawlers / The Badfooters / Entropy. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

N.O.T. DANCE CABARET DINNER SHOW 6:30 p.m.

Agostino’s Ristorante presents special show and offers cocktails and dinner; reservations required (show time 8 p.m.). Show cover $15. 34700 Pacific Coast Hwy., Capistrano Beach, 949.661.8266, www.agostinosbythesea.com.

sunday

NATURE HIKE 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Join park rangers Sunday mornings for an easy 1-mile hike on the Nature Trail at Caspers Park. Free. Parking $5. 33401 Ortega Hwy., 949.923.2211, www.ocparks.com/caspers.

27

MIKE DEBELLIS AND FRIENDS 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Jazz music on the patio at Ciao Pasta Trattoria every Sunday. 31661 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.5002, www.ciaopasta.net.

MISSION TOURS 11:15 a.m.; 1 p.m.; 2:15 p.m.; 3:45 p.m. Special tours at Mission SJC to enhance your experience and learn the history of Mission grounds and California history. Admission $5-$9 plus $1-$2 for tour. 26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

WIN FREE CONCERT TICKETS! The first three people to email us with Dispatch Free Concert Tix in the subject line will receive a pair of free concert tickets from The Coach House to see An Evening with Mark Twain on March 31. Include your name and phone number in the email. EMAIL: tickets@thecapistranodispatch.com

monday

28

COMEDY SHOW 9:30 p.m.

Comedians get some laughs at Hennessey’s every Monday night. Free. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

$5 MONDAY’S 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Join SC Wine Company for happy hour featuring three wines for $5, glasses of selected wines for $5 and mugs of beer from $5 and up. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

Page 10

tuesday

OPERA NIGHT 7 p.m. An evening of opera by award-winning students from Southern Orange County School of the Arts (SOCSA) at Casa Romantica.

Tickets $20 general admission, $15 members, $10 students/children. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

29

wednesday

30

OLD CAPISTRANO FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Every Wednesday at El Camino Real and Yorba; 949.493.4700.

GARDEN TOURS 10:15 a.m.-10:45 a.m. explore the Mission grounds with a tour guide. Free with paid admission of $5-$9.

26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

thursday

SHORECLIFFS SCHOOL GARDEN DINE IN/OUT FUNDRAISER 5:30 p.m.9 p.m. Eat at HAPA J’s, and a portion of the dinner proceeds will be donated to funds for a garden at Shorecliffs School. 2016 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.276.6657, www.hapajs.com.

31

friday

FERNANDO RAMOS 6 p.m.-9 p.m. The solo mariachi guitarist plays at El Adobe every Friday and Saturday night. 31891 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.1163, www.eladobedecapistrano.com.

01

FIRST FRIDAY FILM: GET LOW 7 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano library presents the movie that’s part folk tale, fable and real-life legend. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

PAM LYN KING & ROYAL RUCKUS 8:30 p.m. Live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com (Cont. on page 15) THIS WEEK’S WEATHER 3.25 Rain H: 58° L: 47° 3.26 Partly Cloudy H: 61° L: 48° 3.27 Few Showers H: 64° L: 49°

3.28 Mostly Sunny H: 68° L: 49° 3.29 Sunny H: 66° L: 48° 3.30 Sunny H: 65° L: 49° 3.31 Sunny H: 67° L: 49° www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

Dispatch Restaurant Spotlight

(Cont. from page 10)

La Siesta

saturday

Family Film Feature: Tangled 11 a.m. The San Juan Capistrano library presents a family-friendly movie with popcorn and more fun. Free admission. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

02

Live Music at Swallow’s 2:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Missiles of October; 8:30 p.m. Brandt Vogel at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com Backyard Skills Workshop: Greywater Systems 1 p.m. The Ecology Center hosts a workshop on “”greywater systems.”” Cost $25 plus $5 material fee.

Register online or by calling. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

Johnny Winter 8 p.m. Guitar legend at The Coach House. Also with This Side Up / 7th Sons. Tickets $29.50. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

sunday

Ortega Animal Care Center Open House 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Open house featuring a silent auction with 100 percent of proceeds going to local school PTA plus food, drinks and tours. 27341 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.487.7600, www.ortegaanimalcare.com.

03

Saved By The Mission Bell 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Children and adults can listen to Spanish-speaking audio tours at the Mission daily. Admission of $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

Brandt Vogel 2:30 p.m. Live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

Club Recess 7 p.m.-12 a.m. Teen night for those ages 13 to 19 at The Coach House. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

920 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.498.3094, www.lasiestasanclemente.com Best Known For: Great, authentic food and family-friendly hospitality Most Popular Item: Carnitas Since 1985 when founder Jose Carmelo Hernandez opened the doors with a dream and a collection of family recipes, Mexican food lovers have become fans and loyal regulars. What keeps them coming back? Both food and the hospitality is what they say. La Siesta serves up some of the tastiest pico de gallo style salsa in the county along with a large selection of recipes handed down through la familia Hernandez who originate from Aguas Calientes, Mexico. Specialties include a selection of seafood dishes, and the carnitas are not to be missed. The menu also includes vegetarian choices and both Mexican- and American-style breakfast entrees that are served all day. Try the machaca rica or chilaquiles. “My dad recently passed, but we will stay committed—as always—to living his legacy of well-loved recipes and quality,” said Photo by Andrea Swayne Carmelo’s son Albert who runs the business with his brother Rick. La Siesta was recently remodeled both inside and out, and although it has always been an inviting space, the facelift brightened it up with more festive décor and an updated look, as well as a new bar featuring specialty tequilas.

Price Range: $1.50 - $20 Payment: Cash, credit card

Reservations: Recommended for parties of six or more, especially on Taco Tuesdays Hours: Monday–Friday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Go to www.thecapistranodispatch.com and under “Getting Out” share your thoughts about this week’s restaurant.

Outdoor Arena Soccer Camp 9 a.m.12 p.m. Jamie Arroyo holds a Spring Break soccer camp at Capo Sports Rink for kids ages 7-14 to help them prepare for tryouts and tournaments. Cost $100; includes T-shirt.

2 Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano, 949.291.2678, www.jasocceracademy.com.

monday

04

tuesday

05

Computer Lab 8:45 a.m. Computer lessons at the library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

Rod Frias 7:30 p.m. Live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com

AT THE MOVIES

By Megan Bianco

The Lincoln Lawyer Makes It

S

ome films and filmmakers, stripper. Haller’s ex wife, mother of his though few, can rely heavily on daughter and fellow attorney Maggie having an all-star ensemble cast McPherson is played by Marisa Tomei. to successfully create a masterpiece.

William H. Macy is Haller’s friend and Most recently would be P.T. Anderson veteran, sardonic crime investigator. with his epics Boogie Nights (1997) Bryan Cranston makes an appearance and Magnolia (1999). Or even Woody as a detective who holds a grudge Allen, who still manages to gain against Haller. Michael Pena shows up A-listers in even minor roles for his as a former client of Haller somehow features. And of course, the master connected to his current case. Once of screen ensemble: Robert Altman. compared to McConaughey in the Matthew McConaughey, and Ryan Phillippe in The Lincoln Lawyer. ©Lionsgate/Saeed Adyani From MASH (1970) and Nashville early days of his career, Josh Lucas is (1975) to The Player (1992) and Short Cuts (1993) and by the now acting alongside him as the prosecutor of Roulet. John end of his career Gosford Park (2001). Though these are exLeguizamo, Frances Farmer and Katherine Moennig also treme and excellent examples to place Lakeshore Entertainhave small roles in this already impressive actor list. ment’s latest release, The Lincoln Lawyer, it is a great example Brad Furman makes his third feature film here and does a of a cast being the best part of the film. fine job visually. But it’s John Romano’s script (based on MiMatthew McConaughey stars as our protagonist; a chael Connelly’s novel by the same name) that suffers from no-nonsense, paycheck-oriented Los Angeles attorney some crime drama clichés. Nevertheless, the star-studded, named Mickey Haller. Ryan Phillippe plays his most recent eye-candy of The Lincoln Lawyer saves the film from being client; a playboy heir named Louis Roulet accused of raping a mediocre and worth a weekend viewing. CD

The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

By Andrea Swayne

Page 15

California Missions Resource Studio 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mission San Juan Capistrano presents its new studio with information on all 21 missions for students, teachers and more. Free with paid admission of $5$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

wednesday

Native American basket Weaving 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Learn the art of basket weaving at Mission San Juan Capistrano on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month. Free with paid admission $5-$9.

26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

06

Vine Wine Tasting & Food Pairing 7 p.m.-8 p.m.

Educational wine tasting at Vine featuring four wines paired with food; $40 per person. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.com.

thursday

Vegetable Basket Garden 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Class and interactive workshop on growing vegetables in containers at Goin Native. Fee $10 plus material fee (varies). 31661 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5911, www.goinnative.net.

Patty Booker 8 p.m. Live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, SJC, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com

07

Hulaville Open Mic Night 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Hulaville invites all musicians, along with singers and hula dancers, to step up and showcase your talents for an appreciative audience. Every Thursday. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com. *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

4

LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR friday 3.25

nity Hall, 25925 Camino del Avion

saturday 4.09

Coffee Chat 8 a.m. Deputy District Attorney Tracy Rinaru, who heads the agency’s Gang Reduction and Intervention Program appears as The Capistrano Dispatch hosts a spirited town hall forum on community issues. All are welcome. Camino Real Playhouse, on El Camino Real, just south of Ortega Highway. Occurs every Friday

monday 4.04

tuesday 3.29

friday 4.08

Community Birthday Party 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Free activities for the entire family including bands, dancing, family games, carnival style game booths, a mechanical train ride, a merry-go-round, bounce houses, face painting, a sandy candy booth, clowns, a stilt walker, an old fashioned photo booth where you can get a complimentary souvenir photo.

Historic Town Center Park, El Camino Real, one block south of Ortega.

Los Rios District Planning Meeting 6 p.m., Community Center Commu-

Next regular issue of The Dispatch publishes.

*Meeting agendas at www.sanjuancapistrano.org

Open Space, Trails and Equestrian Commission Meeting 6 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto tuesday 4.05 City Council Meeting 6 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto

Fran Joswick Visits Shea Center The Capistrano Dispatch

I

t was a joyous reunion at The Shea Therapeutic Riding Center February 25 when Fran Joswick returned to San Juan Capistrano to see how her dream has flourished.

Thirty-three years earlier, the then social worker Joswick, along with Derek and Nancy Lewis, began a horse-related physical therapy program to help the Lewis’ young son Michael, who was born with cerebral palsy.

Although horse-related physical therapy, called “hippotherapy,” was relatively new in the U.S. at the time, this therapeutic approach stirred Joswick’s passion, having grown up riding and loving horses. This led Joswick and the Lewis family to begin a therapeutic equestrian center in Orange County with one horse, one instructor, one rider and two volunteers.

From its beginning, and with Joswick at the helm during its first nine years, the therapeutic center (known today as the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center) has grown to become one of the top five among over 800 NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) accredited riding centers.

Joswick now lives in Washington, and before her February visit, she had not seen the Shea Center for 10 years. Learning of her travel plans, Shea Center staff, board of directors and volunteers were eager to show her what her dream had become in recent years after extensive fundraising, program expansion and construction.

Shea Center executive director Dana Butler-Moburg greeted Joswick and her family warmly when they arrived. Also present were old friends and current board members, Janet Deacon, Jenny Klein, Marcia Jager, Danny Espinosa and numerous staff and program members.

Butler-Moburg, Joswick and friends toured the arenas, barn, tack rooms and stables while exchanging stories about the facilities, past and present. They walked on ground Joswick knew well, as she had initially rented the seven-acre site on Oso Road, then operating as the Orange County Riding Center.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

Fran Joswick and Dana Butler-Moburg joke about an old photo from the Fran Joswick Therapeutic Riding Center days. Courtesy photo

As Joswick recalled, in those days the therapeutic riding center operated out of a few trailers and one “porta-potty” on a beautiful piece of land that today backs up to San Juan Capistrano’s open space.

In Joswick’s honor, in 1987 the board of directors renamed the center the Fran Joswick Therapeutic Riding Center when she and her husband moved to Hawaii. That name remained until 2002, when the name changed again to The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center after the Walnut, CA-based J.F. Shea Co. assured the center’s destiny by donating ownership of the property to the organization.

Fran Joswick’s dream has truly grown and blossomed. Today this non-profit center serves more than 500 clients from surrounding Orange and San Diego County communities with a wide range of over 60 physical and/or neurological disabilities (i.e., autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, Down syndrome and speech disorders).

Annually, more than 15,000 hours are generously given by teen and adult volunteers in support of Shea Center clients. The Center has a stable of 18 highly trained therapy horses and a greatly loved, also highly trained, facility dog named Emerson.

The Shea Center has an annual budget of Page 16

approximately $2.3 million, donated by philanthropists, non-government foundations and generous individuals and organizations. Less than 15 percent of the operating budget is paid by client fees.

NARHA has given The Shea Center its highest possible accreditation, the premier level. Every year industry professionals from around the world travel to The Shea Center to see it firsthand and learn more about operating a successful therapeutic equestrian center. This Fran Joswick-inspired center is a source of great pride for those who have come to know it and its good work.

In Fran Joswick’s often-repeated words, “This is wonderful! I am so pleased to see the Center thriving!”

After touring, the entire group enjoyed coffee in the boardroom where old photo albums were spread around the table and the reminiscing continued through the afternoon.

For more information, see: The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center – http://www.sheacenter.org North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) – http://www.harha.org Hippotherapy – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippotherapy To visit the Shea Center: Email dgreen@sheacenter.org or call 949-240-8441, Ext. 109 CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

San Juan Elementary Marks 160 Years

Capistrano school is county’s oldest The Capistrano Dispatch

S

an Juan Elementary School, the oldest public school in Orange County, was set to celebrate its 160th anniversary on Friday, March 25 with a ceremony that will feature former and current students and a rededication of the bell that once signaled the start of class.

“The history and development of California’s education system can be traced back through San Juan School,” Capistrano Unified School District Superintendent Joe Farley said in a statement. “Every single educational concern of the past 160 years played out in one way or another at this historic site.”

For many years, San Juan Elementary School was the only school in the San Juan Capistrano School District, one of five school districts in Los Angeles County in 1850. The school was the only one in southern Los Angeles County (present-day Orange County) until a district and school were established in Santa Ana in

1854-1855. In 1965, the San Juan Capistrano School District united with other South Orange County school districts to create the Capistrano Unified School District.

“It is important that our current students see the link to the past,” Principal Silvia Pule said. “The history of this school is exciting and we want everyone to know about the important role this school has played in the region’s history and the important role it, and its students, will play in the future.”

Tours of the school property will begin at 1 p.m. The ceremony starts at 2:45 p.m.

The school bell was originally donated in 1907 by William Strocheim. Since then, the San Juan Capistrano school has gone through several renovations.

The original bell is still on the grounds; however, its ringing no longer signals the start of the school day.

The bell now sits on the front lawn and stands as a reminder that even before its time, students have been coming to the same four acres of adobe land for a qual-

ity public education.

“This school means a tremendous amount to this community,” 160th Anniversary Celebration Chairperson Michele Taylor-Bible said. “As parents, we respect the historic significance of this school, but are even more excited about its role in educating our children and strengthening our community.”

San Juan Elementary School is not only the oldest public school in Orange County, but has been continuously integrated since its inception in 1850. Today, the school is even more diverse and offers students a unique educational experience with its dual-language immersion program. The school currently educates about 730 students in grades K-6 and has made significant progress in its educational program, improving its Academic Performance Index score by 66 points in the last year alone.

The school is at 31642 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. For more information on the anniversary celebrations, contact the school at 949.493.4533. CD

On Life and Love After 50: By Tom Blake

Where are the Single Men? D uring the 17 years I’ve written a column about finding love after 50, I’ve received a variety of questions about middle-aged dating.

The most frequently asked: “Where are the men?”

Tom Blake Occasionally, women will approach me at Costco, Ralphs, Albertsons, or in my Dana Point deli and say, “I’ve given up hope of ever finding a partner. Where do single men my age congregate?”

I explain that in south Orange County, there is no place—at least that I’m aware of—where older single men go to meet single women close to their age.

And then I ask what they do to meet men. Too often, the women shrug their shoulders and say, “Nothing. If it’s meant to be, it will happen.”

That won’t get the job done. Oh sure, fate steps in occasionally bringing two lonely singles of the opposite sex together, but if singles sit back and wait for a moment like that, it may be a long, lonely wait.

Some women, particularly those newly single, don’t know how to begin, where to go or what to do when it comes to dating. Perhaps they were married for 40-some years and never thought about having to date again.

I tell them the most important thing they can do is to get out of the house and meet new people. Available single men could be anywhere and everywhere.

In Dana Point, we have the harbor shops and restaurants, and the Ocean Institute, where more than 200 volunteers help out.

In San Clemente, we have the pier, the new walking trail along the ocean, and the bustling commercial area on Del Mar. In San Juan Capistrano, we have the downtown area adjacent to the Mission, and the train depot area, including the new Regency movie theatre with Rick’s

The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

Cafe, its second floor restaurant, and Sarducci’s.

These are all great places to walk, explore, and most importantly, to mingle with new people. In each of our three great cities, coffee shops abound where conversations with strangers are viewed as normal.

I admit—for single women—venturing out alone can be intimidating. Finding a male or female friend to tag along will ease the anxiety.

Single men and women hoping for love need to get off the couch and out of the house, but not for the sole purpose of meeting a mate. Trying too hard is a turnoff.

Rather, they should go out to enrich their lives through exercise and enjoying fresh experiences. Doing so will make one a more interesting person.

Becoming involved in activities is another way to meet new people. In our tri-city area, there are a plethora of service clubs and interest groups that are free to join. Each city has an active Chamber of Commerce. I recommend researching the website, www.

Meetup.com, to find activities that one would enjoy. I regularly receive email notices from Meetup.com listing as many as 2,000 activities here in South County.

Of course, there is the Internet. True, singles have to be extra careful when meeting strangers via the Internet. There are lots of scammers and people with evil intentions who prey on vulnerable singles and seniors.

And yet, there are dating sites where seniors have had success meeting mates, like Match.com, or Senior People Meet, but caution is still advised on them.

Because the Internet is worldwide, there is a chance that people who connect online will live in other cities, states, or countries. That’s the nature of the beast.

Long-distance relationships present enormous challenges to singles, worthy of a future column.

But on the other hand, the Internet can bring older singles together. I know a local bank branch manager Page 18

who met his wife online. They both lived in San Clemente, less than a mile apart, but had never met. They are now married. Meeting someone online who lives fairly close is always a possibility.

Older singles should never give up hope. It’s as simple as putting on your walking shoes and getting out there. Well, almost.

To comment: tompblake@gmail.com

Comments from readers: Karen, San Clemente, “Glad you’ll be keeping local singles informed. We do community events in North Beach where singles will have a chance to volunteer and have fun.”

Dan, Aliso Viejo, “Drat and double drat, you stole my idea. I was going to write a column titled, ‘Aging Bald Men Seek Love in all the Wrong Places.’ Perhaps I’ll post a snappy, classified ad instead.”

V., Dana Point, “I am 60, play an OK game of tennis and would like to meet other singles who play tennis.

There aren’t too many mixed doubles opportunities.”

Steve, San Clemente, “Send me some contacts for hot chicks, or, are they called hens when they get to our age?”

Keith, San Juan Capistrano, “At 70, I found my love online. She lived nearby in Mid OC.” Andrea, San Clemente, “My mom is turning 66. She would love to explore the dating world. However, there is only one obstacle; she only speaks Chinese and little English. I wish there is a miracle that she can find a partner.”

For dating information: www.FindingLoveAfter50.com Tom Blake is a San Clemente resident and Dana Point business owner who has authored three books on middleaged dating. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Locals Only

Business Directory The only directory featuring San Juan Capistrano businesses exclusively

Air Conditioning & HEATING

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

Assisted Living Del Obispo Terrace 949.496.8802 32200 Del Obispo Street, www.delobispoterrace.com

PRINTING

Attorney Law Office of Skinner & Skinner 31461 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste. 103

Star Motors 32959 Calle Perfecto

Chick’s Plumbing, Inc. 949.443.1970

Banking Independence Bank 949.373.1570 Marbella Plaza 31107 Rancho Viejo Rd., www.independence-bank.net Pacific Mercantile Bank 949.487.4200 31601 Avenida Los Cerritos, Ste 100, www.pmbank.com

Beauty Salon Charisma Salon & Supply 32301-F Camino Capistrano Curtis Michaels Hair Salon 31882 Del Obispo, Ste. 150, www.curtismichaels.com

Printing OC

949.388.4888 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

949.248.0260

Auto Repair

949.240.1200 949.240.9240

BUSINESS COMPUTER SERVICES Lightning Technology, Inc. 949.488.0029 32963 Calle Perfecto, http://www.lightningtechnology.com

CARPET CLEANING Capistrano Beach Steam Clean 949.240.5875 steamcleaningdanapoint.com

COMPUTER SERVICES San Clemente Computer & Network Services daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 Tired of Waiting I.T. Services 949.922.7727 j.ehle@cox.net

ELECTRICIANS Friess Electric 949.248.4222 32332 Camino Capistrano, Suite 102

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This handy, cost-friendly, go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7.

Get your business listed today.

Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or email aedwards@ thecapistranodispatch.com.

Pronto Plumbing (El Plomero) 949.246.3589 31878 Del Obispo Ste. 118-227, www.prontodrain.com SCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. 949.493.2426 27126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com DC Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning www.dcplumbing.net 949.365.9044

Proudly Serving South Orange County Since 1975

949.496.9731 www.chicks-plumbing.com Lic# 310654

RestaurantS Las Golandrinas Mexican Food 949.240.3440 27124 Paseo Espada #803, www.lasgolondrinas.biz

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES Bryan Krueger Enterprises, Inc. 33208 Paseo De Cerveza, Ste. B

949.212.0499

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

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

Slab leak repair

Four-A Electric 949.240.8844 SCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. 949.493.2426 32432 Alipaz, Ste. C, fouraelectric@sbcglobal.net 27126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com Excel Electric - CA #793860 949.493.7769 32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, www.excelelectric.com

Experience The Mission Historic Mission San Juan Capistrano Exciting New Audio Tour 949.234.1300 26801 Ortega Highway, www.missionsjc.com

FLORIST Mother Earth Flowers 949.493.4400 32158 Camino Capistrano, Ste. 105 www.motherearthflorist.com

Insurance Capistrano Health & Life www.capistranohealthlife.com

949.697.9454

Jeweler Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design 949.493.3632 32382 Del Obispo, Ste. C-3, www.abbysdesigns.com

Kitchen Design Kitchen & Bath Designs 27231 Ortega Hwy., Unit B

949.661.4080

MOLD REMOVAL Jarvis Restoration 949.362.5388 31942 Paseo Sagrado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

MORTGAGE Capistrano Health & Life www.capistranohealthlife.com

949.697.9454

PAINTING SUPPLIES Dunn-Edwards Painting, Inc. 949.234.1201 31896 Plaza Dr. Unit D-1, Plaza Del Obispo Center

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

PLUMBING A to Z Leak Detection www.atozleakdetection.com

949.499.4464

TELEVISION Reeltime Sight and Sound 949-240-0555 26381 Via De Anza, www.reeltimesightandsound.com

WATER CONSERVATION Xeriflo Plumbing Systems 949.276.7000 www.xeriflo.com

WATER DAMAGE Jarvis Restoration

949.362.5388 31942 Paseo Sagrado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

WINDOW CLEANING/ PRESSURE WASHING Bayside Window Cleaning 949.290.8230 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

Women’s Clothing Blu:Echo

949.496.4810 31878 Del Obispo (Marshalls Center)

YOGA Adelanto Studio Yoga & Life Arts 949.705.7344 32118 Paseo Adelanto, Ste.9, www.adelantostudio.net

Business Directory CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com

HELP WANTED part time salesperson San Clemente-based graphic design firm seeks a part time salesperson to sell marketing and advertising design services: logos, business cards and stationery, brochures and flyers, newspaper and magazine advertising, postcards and direct mail pieces, posters, banners, labels and stickers, newsletters and catalogs, book covers and more. Territory is South Orange County. Job requires 16 hrs/wk, networking and selling the firm’s design capabilities. Evening hours, and some weekend times are required. Commission only plus expenses.

You can review samples of our work on various pages at www.imgs.com. Please call IMAGES/Creative Solutions at 949.366.2488. Ask for Scott or email me at scotts@imgs.com.

LEAD PROGRAM AIDE-GRIPCARE Part-time Program Aide position to work with middleschool students, serving as area leader for the staff running the Grip-care program. Hours will be a split shift: 7 am – 10 am and 3 pm – 6pm. Duties will include planning and implementing activities in one or more of the following areas: education; social recreation; arts and crafts; and physical education. Requirements: high school diploma, experience working with children, communication skills to deal with children and with the general public (bilingual in Spanish a plus), CPR and first aid certified, supervisory experience a plus. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley is an equal opportunity employer. If interested, please contact Nicole Belair, Unit Director, at 949.240.7898 extension *19 or by email at nbelair@bgccapo.com.

HELP WANTED NEWSPAPER SALES MANAGER WANTED Experienced newspaper sales veteran with South Orange County (Calif.) sales experience sought to head sales effort for community media group’s print and online sales team. Candidate will have min. 5 years newspaper sales experience, great personality, proven track record in sales and willingness to sell space and run small sales team. Competitive base salary, commission and full benefits. Send cover letter and resume to info@picketfencemedia.com

LEASE OPPORTUNITY NOTICE FOR LEASE OPPORTUNITY AT DANA POINT HARBOR Dana Point Marina Company is soliciting proposals until space is fully leased at 34551 Casitas Place, Dana Point, CA 92629. This office/retail space is located adjacent to a busy retail center in Dana Point Harbor with a great view of marina and watercraft. Proposals are to be submitted based on operating a business for the highest and best use meeting the public’s needs, and complying with the State of California’s Tidelands Grant. To obtain a copy of the RFP and register for free, go to “BidSync” http://egov.ocgov.com/ ocgov/Procurement & use “Open Bids” for RFP Number: 108-614981-DP. Dana Point Harbor is a County of Orange facility and does not pay commissions.

Dispatch classifieds GET RESULTS!

Submit your ad today!

Call 949-388-7700 ext. 104 RUMMAGE SALE National Charity League -Monarch Chapter 4th Annual Rummage Sale, Sat 3/26 8AM-2:30PM, Something for everyone!

San Clemente Presbyterian Church 119 North Avenida de la Estrella. Proceeds to local charities.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Page 21

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

5 BEST BETS DANCE

BOYS BASEBALL

BOYS LACROSSE

BOYS BASEBALL

USA Dance Championships, Anaheim Convention Center March 25-26, TBA

Knights vs.

Dolphins Dana Hills High March 26, 11 a.m.

Dolphins vs.

Tritons, San Clemente High March 29, 5:30 p.m.

Stallions vs. Mustangs, San Juan Hills High School March 30, 3:15 p.m.

San Clemente High’s dance team is one of many other schools from nine states looking for big titles.

Grab a cup of coffee and spend your Saturday morning with the Dolphins as the team hosts Foothill High.

Dana Hills travels to face cross-town rival San Clemente in an epic battle on the field at San Clemente High.

The boys of Spring face off against Trabuco Hills High. Info: www.sjhhs.com

Info: www.sctritons.com

Info: www.dhhs.net

SOFTBALL

Stallions vs. Cougars San Juan Hills High March 31, 3:30 p.m.

The Stallions take on Capistrano Valley High in a budding cross-town rivalry.

Info: www.sjhhs.com

Info: www.dhhs.net

Marco Students Run the Los Angeles Marathon

By Pantea Ommi Mohajer The Capistrano Dispatch

A

fter six months of training, about two dozen students from Marco Forster Middle School ran in the Los Angeles Marathon, as members of Students Run LA. Their training in sunshine and 85 degree weather couldn’t prepare them for the wind, rain and hail they were faced with for the 26.2 mile race.

“The barricades started floating in the water, and piling together like flotillas,” said team coach Carla Kallen. “When the finish line got in sight, the wind was blowing so hard you thought you were running in place.”

The program, launched by a Los Angeles teacher 22 years ago, was designed to help “at risk” students.

Today, thousands of students from LA and Orange County participate.“SRLA donates two pairs of running shoes and race day uniforms to all participants.

The San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club donated a one-night hotel stay in L.A. for the students of Marco Forster, and Ken Hart of Aquatic Technologies provided them with team jackets, all in the name of a great cause.

“I think for most of our kids running a marathon is a life-changing event,” Callen said. “I see a confidence in them that can’t be taken away—one that comes from accomplishing something you never thought you could do!” CD

Bottom Row L-R: Lindsey Foster (coach), Nandi Maldonado, Edrian Ochoa, Max Batterton, Claire Taylor, Kainan Short, German Ramirez.

Middle Row L-R: Carla Kallen (coach) Chelsea Delgado, Addy Sanchez, Yary Rojas, Yulet Ruiz, Kimberly Martinez, Lyndsey Robertson, Edith Mejia, Nate Magee, Kiefer Batterton. Top Row L-R: Lizette Cruz, Getsemani Flores, Megan Chaney, Helen Payne, Samantha Pierce, Cassie Duran, Patrick Furlong, Isaiah Fitts, Geovanni Mendez. Standing on top: Marco Forster Principal Carrie Bertini, Rotarians Ray Perez, Greg Sykes, John Caldwell and Capistrano Councilman John Taylor. Courtesy photo

San Juan Golfers Retain Cup The Capistrano Dispatch

wenty-four players competed in the 2011 San Juan Hills Women’s Golf Association’s annual President’s Cup. After five rounds of highly competitive play, Sonia Shalhub battled her way to the top. She was presented the trophy at the Club’s annual Past President’s luncheon.

The Ryder Cup is the format used every year when

T The Capistrano Dispatch March 25–April 7, 2011

Page 22

the women golfers from San Juan challenge the women from Tijeras Creek to a three-week match.

The first match (alternate shot) was played at Tijeras Creek, the second (best ball out of two) at San Juan Hills and the third (individual) at Aliso Viejo.

This year the 24 San Juan ladies won with a final score of 28.5 to 19.5, allowing them to retain the cup for the second consecutive year. As in previous years, the golfers celebrated and enjoyed each other’s company with a luncheon at Cosmos in Aliso Viejo. CD

www.thecapistranodispatch.com