January 9, 2015

Snow Descends Upon San Juan PAGE 3

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OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

Photo: Alan Gibby/zone57.com FOUNDED IN 2002

JANUARY 9–22, 2015 • VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

A Juaneño Leader’s Legacy San Juan remembers David Belardes as a passionate activist, preservationist E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 4

Jerry Nieblas reflects on the knowledge passed on by his late cousin, David Belardes. Nieblas, pictured with a photo of Belardes and members of the Capistrano Historical Alliance Committee, stands in the Old Mission Cemetery where Belardes and his wife are now buried among their ancestors. Photo: Allison Jarrell

The Dilemma with Development in SJC EYE ON SJC/PAGE 4

Former Sports Rink Operator Gets 3 Years in Prison EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

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Siegel: Hotels, Residences Once Thrived Downtown SJC LIVING/PAGE 11

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EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Animal Rescue Effort, or CARE, and wellbehaved dogs on leashes are welcome. Proceeds from the event go toward supporting CARE as well as SJC Rotary charities.

The show will also feature the unveiling of a watercolor painting created for the event by San Juan Capistrano resident and commercial artist, Jack Schmitt. Prints will be available for sale at the event.

Five things San Juan should know this week

WHAT’S NEXT: To register a car, visit www. sjcrotary.org/carshow. The show will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children (11-17) and free for kids under 11.—AJ

South Orange County Gets Rare Snowfall THE LATEST: Last week, Orange County residents experienced a rare winter phenomenon—snow. The county’s last reported snowfall was in January 1949, which was the first snow recorded since 1881, according to the Orange County Almanac. On Wednesday, Dec. 31, San Juan residents were treated to a wintry backdrop of snow-covered mountains.

Temperatures dropped to the low 30s at night with highs in the upper 50s during the day.

But the weather proved treacherous for many travelers east of San Juan Capistrano, and 30 cars were stranded in the snow overnight on Ortega Highway near Temecula, according to CHP Officer Aaron Rothberg. After about a foot of snow blanketed the highway on the night of Dec. 30, the California Highway Patrol closed the road due to hazardous conditions. Rothberg said CHP worked with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department to survey the area and rescue stranded motorists, but all of the cars had been abandoned. The highway reopened by 5 p.m. Dec. 31.

WHAT’S NEXT: With last week’s cold snap dissipated, San Juan can expect to see mild temperatures through the weekend with a slight chance of rain, according to the National Weather Service.—Allison Jarrell

Former Sports Rink Operator Gets 3 Years in Prison THE LATEST: Michael Schwartz, the former operator of the renovated SJC Sports Rink, was sentenced on Monday to 37 months in federal prison for fraud.

Orange County Central Court Deputy Clerk Deborah Goltz confirmed Wednesday that Schwartz pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud at Monday’s sentencing

by Judge David O. Carter. Schwartz will serve 37 months for each count concurrently, and was ordered to pay $1.79 million in restitution.

Schwartz previously pleaded guilty to The Capistrano Dispatch January 9-22, 2015

Seven Measles Cases Confirmed in Orange County

San Juan resident and artist Jack Schmitt created this watercolor painting for the Jan. 31 car show. Photo: Courtesy of John Caldwell

wire and mail fraud charges in U.S. District Court in June. At the time, prosecutors said Schwartz defrauded investors and financial institutions of $1.8 million through his company Service First Funding Group.

In August, the San Juan Capistrano City Council voted unanimously to terminate an operating agreement with Schwartz for the sports rink. The rink, located behind Marco Forster Middle School and Kinoshita Elementary, was primarily used for roller hockey before Schwartz restored it in 2013. After renovations were completed, the rink became home to activities such as lacrosse and soccer.

also pursuing an acting career, will accept speak at the gala. His most recent appearances were in Disney’s Lone Ranger and the TV series “Breaking Bad.” The evening will also include a performance by Pala Indian Reservation bird singers and fancy dancers.

“Four Directions is dedicated to being a positive influence in the Native American community in Orange County—starting with our youth,” Four Directions President Nathan Banda said in a press release.

“We are committed to providing a path to higher education that prepares Native American students to succeed in their careers and at life.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The multi-purpose SJC Sports Rink is now operated by Victory Sports.—AJ

WHAT’S NEXT: Tickets can be purchased online at eventbrite.com/ event/14590485535/. For questions, email events@fourdirectionseducation.org.—AJ

New Nonprofit to Host Honoring Traditions Gala THE LATEST: Local nonprofit organization Four Directions Education is hosting an Honoring Traditions Gala and Silent Auction on Jan. 31 at 5:30 p.m. at El Adobe de Capistrano. The gala will be a major fundraising event for Four Directions and Capistrano Unified School District Native Education Program, making after-school programs, cultural exchanges, summer camps and much needed scholarships possible.

The Jan. 31 program will honor Saginaw Grant, a member of the Sac-n-Fox, Iowa and Otoe-Missouria Nations, with the Native American Humanitarian of the Year Award. Grant, an Indian leader who is

Historic Car Show Revving Up THE LATEST: The annual San Juan Capistrano Car Show is set to take place on Jan. 31 at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center/Sports Park, featuring more than 400 hot rods, muscle cars, classics, cruisers and more. After 11 years of being known as the CARE Car Show, and later as the Rotary/CARE Car Show, the name has been permanently changed to the Historic San Juan Capistrano Car Show.

Organizers said the new name is representative of the historic link the show has to San Juan, and also represents a new partnership with the historic Mission.

The event will still feature the Capistrano

Page 3

THE LATEST: Seven cases of the measles have been confirmed in California and all reported having visited the same Orange County theme park within six days of each other, California Department of Public Health officials said Wednesday in a news release.

The patients hail from five different locations within the state, said Dr. Ron Chapman, CDPH director and state health officer in the statement. All seven—ranging from 8 months to 21 years old—visited Disneyland or Disney California Adventure Park between Dec. 15 and Dec. 20, making it likely that an infectious person was also at the parks during the same time period, officials said.

Another three California residents are suspected of having the disease, and two additional cases have been confirmed in Utah.

Early signs of measles include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A red rash typically appears within a few days on the face and then spreads to the body. Patients can be contagious for nine days with the highly infectious airborne disease.

WHAT’S NEXT: “If you have symptoms, and believe you may have been exposed, please contact your health care provider,” Chapman said. “The best way to prevent measles and its spread is to get vaccinated.”

The seven Californians confirmed to have the disease reside in Alameda, Orange, Pasadena, Riverside and San Diego health jurisdictions. Of the seven, only one was vaccinated.

Health care providers are being reminded to evaluate for measles when treating patients with a rash and fever. Several large contact investigations are ongoing, CDPH officials said.

FIND OUT MORE: To find out more, visit the CDPH website at www.cdph.ca.gov.

—Andrea Swayne www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

A Juaneño Leader’s Legacy San Juan remembers David Belardes as a passionate activist, preservationist

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

an Juan Capistrano said goodbye to beloved Juaneño leader David Belardes last week. Belardes, 67, died early Monday morning, Dec. 31. He was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in March.

Belardes’ cousin, Jerry Nieblas, rang the Mission bells in the traditional way at 3 p.m. in the Sacred Garden the day Belardes passed. Nieblas said between 70 and 100 family and friends gathered at the ceremony.

“It was our final prayer,” Nieblas said.

“That’s the time we use to say to San Juan, ‘We’ve lost one of our native sons, we’re returning this native son back to his land, and this is our prayer to our ancestors, to the Creator, that they receive this son of San Juan Capistrano.”

The following weekend, Belardes’ funeral mass in the Basilica and rosary in the Serra Chapel were celebrated by Father Jim Nieblas, another one of Belardes’ cousins.

Belardes’ family’s roots can be traced

The Dilemma with SJC Development

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he last several months have brought a whirlwind of development controversies to San Juan Capistrano.

City meetings, public forums, community coffee chats and a recent litany of Dispatch website comments have been continually revolving around two hot-button projects in particular—the Spieker Senior Center and the San Juan Hotel & Villas. As each project moves through its approvals, rejections and setbacks, the one thing opposing factions seem to agree on is that the city is likely facing a litigious journey ahead.

With Spieker going back to the drawing board after the City Council repealed their zoning, and Urban Village facing a petition against its downtown project, speculation has begun as to whether the council can, The Capistrano Dispatch January 9-22, 2015

Pictured (left to right) are Members of the Capistrano Historical Alliance Committee in March 2011: Jerry Nieblas, David Belardes, Theresa Nieblas-Saunders, GiGi Nieblas, Janice Pickartz, Garry Meeker, Missy Garcia and Nollie Garcia. Photo: Courtesy of Jerry Nieblas

to the early days of San Juan Capistrano.

Via Belardes, off of Del Obispo Street, was named after his father, Matias Belardes, Nieblas said. That street is also the site of the former Belardes Ranch, where he and David grew up learning about the land and their heritage from Belardes’ father.

“Those are the years, on that ranch, that formed our love for the land, our love for our culture and the love of our history,” Nieblas said. “David’s dad really instilled us with our connection to the land of San Juan.”

Following his childhood on the Belardes Ranch, David went on to focus his time and efforts on preserving historical sites—such as Juaneño burial grounds and other sacred land—not only in San Juan, but across the county. Belardes was an outspoken activist and educator, always focusing on the deeply-rooted history beneath the land he fought passionately to protect.

Nieblas said his cousin never shied away

from controversy. Whether he was addressing disagreements among the Juaneño people or confronting developers and institutions about constructing on top of sacred sites, Belardes spoke his mind. Belardes eventually founded the California Mission Studies Association, where Nieblas said he became “the protector and the voice for other missions.”

“I personally feel we’re entering a real difficult time right now without David’s presence, because so much is going on in the community with change and development,” Nieblas said. “I don’t think this community realizes the impact that his loss is going to bring to our history, to our culture and to our traditions.”

One of Belardes’ most recent contributions to San Juan is the Blas Aguilar Adobe, a museum and Acjachemen center that he worked on with his wife, Aurora “Cha Cha” Belardes. Nieblas said Cha Cha, who passed in 2009, was a descendant of Blas

and will, make a similar decision when considering a potential referendum against San Juan Hotel & Villas.

tion,” Mayor Derek Reeve wrote in an email. “Furthermore, the property owner is not entitled to the proposed development. Our primary duties are to represent residents and uphold our oath of office. On both counts, rejecting the Spieker development was the only reasonable action to take.”

Spieker Senior Development: After the San Juan Capistrano City Council voted 4-1 at its Dec. 16 meeting to overturn rezoning for the Spieker Senior Development, Troy Bourne, principal of Spieker Senior Development Partners, said he hasn’t given up on developing the Vermuelen property. Bourne intends to submit another proposal, soon, for the 35-acre plot of land off Del Obispo Street.

However, Bourne noted that submitting a new proposal will be difficult if City Council members aren’t willing to meet and discuss potential projects.

After a petition to upend Spieker’s zoning approval was verified by the Registrar of Voters, the council had two choices in December: repeal the project’s zoning or allow voters to make that decision with a special election referendum. With former mayor Sam Allevato dissenting, the council majority voted to repeal the approval.

“My biggest objection to Spieker is, from my perspective, the residents overwhelmingly do not want it at its proposed loca-

San Juan Hotel & Villas: Petitioners attempting to halt the San Juan Hotel & Villas project turned in a referendum to City Hall on Dec. 23 and, despite receiving a letter from Urban Village’s attorney asking the City Council to cease and desist, the City Clerk recently filed the petition with the Orange County Registrar of Voters. The registrar is currently verifying the signatures, and has until Feb. 6 to validate the petition.

According to the letter from Urban Village’s attorney, Charles Krolikowski of Newmeyer & Dillion LLP, because no legislative action was made in regards to the project, a referendum would be invalid.

Krolikowski wrote that the administrative approvals made in the city’s resolution are not subject to a petition.

Urban Village is now set to sue the city Page 4

Aguilar, so the site was important to both her and Belardes. One of their two sons, Domingo, is now in charge of running the museum.

“They wanted to make it a place where San Juan Capistrano residents could walk through history,” Nieblas said of the history, maps and artifacts that fill the adobe.

“They wanted to tell a complete story.”

Several members of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society have spoken about how instrumental Belardes was in weaving San Juan’s history together. Belardes spent a lot of time with historical society president Tom Ostensen in recent years while the group worked to preserve the 1890 Oyharzabal house and the Silvas Adobe, circa 1794-96.

“David taught me “thoughtful” demolition,” Ostensen wrote in an email. “Rather than bringing in heavy equipment and knocking down a structure, take the time to hand demolish a structure and look for signs of the past. Take the time to look at every shovel full of dirt that you dig and look for signs of the past.”

Ostensen said they found many signs of the past during those years, and Belardes knew much of the history behind each artifact.

“David was an encyclopedia of local Native American folklore, traditions and oral history,” Ostensen wrote. “It was my privilege and honor to be considered one of his friends, and I shall always hold his teachings in my heart.”

Belardes is survived by two sons, Matias Belardes and Domingo “Mingo” Belardes, sister Donna Belardes Murphy, four grandsons, two granddaughters and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Belardes now rests in the Old Mission Cemetery next to Cha Cha. CD

Troy Bourne, principal of Spieker Senior Development Partners, stands on the site off Del Obispo Street where the Laguna Glen retirement community was planned. Photo: Allison Jarrell

for submitting the referendum, according to Principal Josh Host. In the meantime, Host said he has also submitted videos he took of petitioners lying to residents in order to get signatures to the District Attorney.

“Regarding Urban Village, I suspect the majority of the council would support a hotel along with a residential and retail component so long as it is consistent with the HTC Master Plan,” Reeve wrote. “Unfortunately the developer as of yet has not indicated a willingness to fit the project within these parameters. Hopefully that will change.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Community Blotter Meetings

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (5:04 p.m.)

A man was reportedly bothering customers and asking for money.

COMPILED BY ALLISON JARRELL

TUESDAY, JAN. 13

Planning Commission Meeting

6:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission discusses area development at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Log on to www.sanjuancapistrano.org to see the body’s agenda.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 14

Downtown Farmers Market

3 p.m.–6 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from around 40 vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday. Visit, www.farmersmarketsjc.com to find out more.

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting

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

FRIDAY, JAN. 16

Coffee Chat

8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome. Go to www. facebook.com/sjccoffeechat for more.

TUESDAY, JAN. 20

City Council, Housing Authority and Successor Agency Meeting

5 p.m. The city’s governing body meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

To see the night’s agenda, visit, www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21

Downtown Farmers Market

3 p.m.–6 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from around 40 vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday. Visit, www.farmersmarketsjc.com to find out more.

FRIDAY, JAN. 23

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes

The Capistrano Dispatch January 9-22, 2015

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

Saturday, January 3 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Arroyo, 27100 Block (11:54 p.m.) A woman recorded an obscene phone call with a man who said he was on his way to her location.

ROBBERY IN PROGRESS Camino Capistrano, 32300 Block (5:15 p.m.) A caller reported that a man stole two phones. The caller couldn’t confirm whether he had a gun.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Via Primavera, 28500 Block (3:31 a.m.)

A raccoon entered a house through a doggy door and was locked inside a bedroom.

DISTURBANCE Via San Vicente, 31100 Block (10:07 p.m.)

A caller reported his son’s ex-girlfriend was refusing to leave.

Thursday, January 1

MISSING JUVENILE San Juan Creek Road, 28000 Block (11:18 p.m.) A man reported that his son was out with friends at an unknown location. His son said he wouldn’t be home until about 3 a.m.

DISTURBANCE Pas Carolina, 32000 Block (8:19 p.m.)

People loitering in an alley were turning off garage lights.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE Pas Rosarito, 26600 Block (8:27 p.m.)

A caller reported a black SUV with the driver’s side window smashed and glass all over the ground. The vehicle was unknown to the area.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Junipero Serra Road, 26500 Block (12:50 a.m.) A woman driving a gold Buick Century said she was followed by a dark green Sienna van for 10 minutes.

FIREWORK VIOLATION Pas Valencia, 31100 Block (12:13 a.m.) A woman reported hearing “fireworks and gunshots,” but was unable to explain why she thought the noise was generated by both fireworks and gunshots.

DISTURBANCE Pas Pamela, 26400 Block (6:40 p.m.) A caller said her neighbor punched her dad before returning to his own residence. No weapons were involved.

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

Battle of the Mariachis Tickets on Sale Reserved tables for Mission San Juan Capistrano’s Battle of the Mariachis Festival are now on sale. The 11th annual Battle of the Mariachis Festival will be held on Saturday, May 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Mission Courtyard. Each year, the highly-anticipated festival showcases talent, interpretation and inspiration of Mariachi music.

As of Jan. 7, Mission members can take advantage of a one-week pre-sale on reserved tables. Members also receive a 10 percent discount on table purchases.

Reserved tables will go on sale to the public on Jan. 14, and individual admission tickets go on sale Feb. 11.

The cost is $15 for adults and seniors and $6 for children ages 4 to 11. Individual tickets include admission into the Mission for the day (gates open at 9 a.m.) and admission to the event.

There are a limited number of individual

tickets available, and tickets are expected to sell out. To maintain a safe, accessible and enjoyable environment, tickets will not be sold when the limit is reached.

Purchase tickets early and in advance to ensure admission.

Tables and individual tickets can be purchased by going to www.missionsjc. com, calling 949.234.1321 or going to Mission San Juan Capistrano’s Gate House between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Giving Back in Honor of the Big Kahuna When surf icon and San Clemente resident Terry “Tubesteak” Tracy died in 2012, the legacy of an early surfing pioneer was not all he left behind.

Terry “Tubesteak” Tracy.

His commitment Photo: Jennifer Tracy to helping children with special needs has also endured.

A concert fundraiser set for Saturday, Jan. 17 at O.C. Tavern, 2369 S. El Camino Real in San Clemente, has been organized

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Wednesday, December 31 ILLEGAL PEDDLING Avenida La Mancha, 28300 Block (6:32 p.m.) A neighborhood was patrolled for two men in their 20s selling magazines door to door.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Arroyo/Via Solana (4:51 p.m.) A caller had taken a photo of a boy on a moped who possibly poured vodka into a water bottle before leaving. The caller found an empty bottle of vodka in the bushes.

CITIZEN ASSIST Camino Capistrano, 32000 Block (1:19 p.m.) A man reported a pharmacist “criminally” threatening him by looking at him “maliciously” with “evil eyes.” The man said the pharmacy was harming him by treating him coldly and taunting him by giving him imitation medications.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Camino Del Avion/Del Obispo Street (8:21 a.m.) A man in a stalled gold sedan put his hazards on in the middle of Camino Del Avion, and then carried the hood of his car across the street and put it on the ground.

Tuesday, December 30 KEEP THE PEACE Calle Arroyo, 31500 Block (10:09 a.m.) A very agitated caller reported people cutting down trees next to the mobile home park across the street from his property.

The man was angry because now he has to look at the “ratty” mobile homes.

in Tracy’s memory, to raise money for some of his favorite organizations.

Dubbed “Big Kahuna Benefit Koncert,” the event will feature performances by Common Sense and THE UNTOUCHABLES, with music and art on display by Joshua Paskowitz and Mike Dena Band.

The show runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and tickets are $20 at the door. The event will also include raffles and a silent auction. O.C. Tavern will be donating 20 percent of all food and drink purchases.

Proceeds will go to support Rock the Autism, a San Clemente-based music program for kids with autism; Surfers Healing, a San Juan Capistrano-based surf camp for kids with autism; TheraSurf, a Malibu surf camp for kids with special needs; Vocational Visions, a Mission Viejo program for adults with special needs; and Great Opportunities, a San Juan Capistrano program helping disadvantaged kids learn about the ocean.

For more information, or to donate raffle or silent auction items, call 949.370.1083.—Andrea Swayne Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor

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

DAVID BELARDES WILL BE MISSED —Jan Siegel, San Juan Capistrano With the passing of David Belardes, our community has lost some of its heart and soul. David was an icon and a leader in this town his entire life. He always fought for ideas—for what he thought was right. Right or wrong, David was passionate about his culture, his family and the history of San Juan Capistrano.

He was proud of his heritage, even when it was not popular, and always fought for the Juaneños. David was not a wealthy man, but he had a wealth of information about this community which is unmatched by anyone else. He will be missed. Vaya con Dios.

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

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

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@thecapistranodispatch.com BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER

WHY THE NEGATIVITY? —Shelley Bachelder, San Juan Capistrano In response to Sam Allevato’s letter posted Dec. 26, 2014: Sam, why so much negativity? We’re trying to be a community here and you continue to try to divide us by belittling a large portion of residents who think differently than you.

I don’t see any “downward spiral of stagnation” in our town. When I go downtown, I see people everywhere, driving around, dining, shopping and walking. If you see that as a downward spiral of stagnation, then I would suggest moving to a different city—one that embraces traffic jams, stifling crowds and waiting in lines for movies and restaurants. That’s not us.

It’s not what we want for this town.

If you find the existing vacant storefronts troubling, then work on helping businesses to fill them before introducing new development. The developments you are so vocal about supporting are the seemingly prestigious, high-profile projects that would get a lot of attention—for you. Why not shelve your ego for a change and actually listen to the people you are supposed to be serving?

Yes, some of them support your views, but based on election results and petition signatures (to reverse the most recent actions of you and your former majority colleagues) it looks like most residents don’t support your views.

I don’t think you’re stupid, but I think you treat us as if we are. Having been on the City Council for so long, and being a former mayor, you must know that referendum petitions give the council the option to either reverse the approval of an action or put it to a vote. Even I know that—I read what I’m about to put my signature on. But no, you spin it to make it sound like our new Council majority The Capistrano Dispatch January 9–15, 2015

is trying to pull a fast one. I don’t know the thinking of the council, but to me, since the referendum petition received almost twice the number of voter signatures needed in an abbreviated period of time, why would they waste our money to have us vote on it again? The signatures pretty well tell the story. With that kind of community response and the subsequent election results (replacing the two members who typically matched your votes) it should be clear to you how the majority of our residents feel. Sam, if you had been up for re-election, you’d be out now too.

So, please curb your divisive attitude. It’s time to play nice with your new teammates, start listening to the people and work on what’s actually good for our town.

CAPISTRANO HISTORICAL ALLIANCE COMMITTEE OPPOSES HOTEL, TOWNHOMES —Jerry Nieblas, San Juan Capistrano, Janice Pickartz, Dana Point The Capistrano Historical Alliance Committee vehemently opposes development of a hotel and townhomes next to Historic Town Center Park. As most of you know, CHAC is dedicated and committed to preserving the historical integrity of San Juan Capistrano.

Developers have money and back room deals can be made, but history and preservation should never be for sale, never. We remind you that San Juan Capistrano is the birthplace of Orange County. Let your actions of support towards the referendum be a message to the developers that San Juan Capistrano cannot be bought. We ask you to protect this land. The hotel and townhomes would desecrate one of the most impor-

tant and historically sensitive sites in San Juan Capistrano. We are not our ancestors.

Those ancestors had to stand silent while the land was violated. Hear our voices.

The historical families that descended from pre-Mission, early California Rancho, European and Hispanic families have ties to this site. It was part of the early Mission plaza area. The Mission constructed adobe homes and later a Forster home and the Las Rosas/Nieblas family home and restaurant. When a local developer destroyed the Las Rosas, the community was given a huge wake-up call to begin their efforts to preserve the Mission, historical buildings, landmarks, etc. that were important to the historical families.

With a deep respect for the history of San Juan Capistrano, we stand behind our mission statement. And as most of you know, CHAC will use whatever means necessary to be heard. The historical families and community need you to support their opposition to this development, just as we join in the thousands who opposed the Laguna Glen project. We respectfully ask you to really think about these next few questions. How does the developer get to come in and destroy whatever is in its path?

When will all of you realize how fast our small town atmosphere is vanishing right in front of our eyes? What will it take to help you see how wrong this hotel and townhomes plan is for our town? The City Council has the ability to accept the referendum and protect history in San Juan Capistrano.

Please do just that; protect our history.

Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@thecapistranodispatch.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

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

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

ART/DESIGN SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

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

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 13, Issue 1. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch ) is published twice monthly

by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (www. sanclementetimes.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives.

Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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

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GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

Juan Capistrano Garden Club will be held at the San Juan Hills Golf Club. Guests are welcome. The meeting will be followed by a spirited “Trash to Treasure” auction, where slightly used, new or repurposed garden items will be auctioned. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano. For more information, call 949.584.1680 or visit www.sanjuancapistranogardenclub.com.

EDITOR’S PICK

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

Friday | 09 FOOD TRUCKS AT THE BREWHOUSE 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. The Kepner Farms food truck will be grillin’ up all-natural, farm-totable food at The BrewHouse. On Saturday, Chef TLC’s Sidewalk Café food truck, specializing in ‘healthified’ American comfort food, will be at The BrewHouse from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. 31896 Plaza Drive, Suite D-3, San Juan Capistrano, 949.891.2337, www.facebook.com/TheBrewHouseSJC. SWING SHIFT 8:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188.

Saturday | 10 LAURA’S HOUSE SAN JUAN SUNDAY Noon-5 p.m. Celebrate the New Year with coffee, donuts and shopping at Laura’s House Resale Store. 31878 Del Obispo Street, Suite 104, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.6400, www.laurashouse.org.

Sunday | 11 THE CREEPERS 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Live music at Hennessey’s Tavern, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

Tuesday | 13 OPEN MIC NIGHT 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perfom at the Point Restaurant open mic. Bring

Tuesday | 20 LUNCH LOCAL 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the SJC Chamber of Commerce for a networking lunch at Sundried Tomato Cafe. RSVP to claire@ sanjuanchamber.com. 31781 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.1167, sundriedtomatocafe.com.

Mariachis at the Mission. Photo: Courtesy of Mission San Juan Capistrano

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10: MARIACHIS AT THE MISSION 10 a.m.-11:15 a.m. Enjoy live mariachi music performed by the Capistrano Community Mariachi Program at the Mission on the second Saturday of each month. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com. your instrument, bring your voice, The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Wednesday | 14 DOWNTOWN FARMER’S MARKET 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and more in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. www.farmersmarketsjc.com.

RESIDENT APPRECIATION DAYS 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Every Wednesday, San Juan Capistrano residents receive free admission to the Mission with a $10 Mission store purchase. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

Friday | 16 FIESTA ASSOCIATION MIXER & MEMBERSHIP DRIVE 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Join the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association at the San Juan Hills Golf Club for a mixer and taco night.

Those in attendance will learn what goes on behind the scenes on Parade Day. $15 for tacos with all the fixin’s. No host bar.

Cost of membership is $30 per person, or $50 per family or business. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.1976, www.swallowsparade.com.

Monday | 19 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GARDEN CLUB 10 a.m. The annual meeting of the San

Wednesday | 21 URINETOWN THE MUSICAL 7 p.m. San Juan Hills High School presents Urinetown The Musical. Show runs to Jan. 24. 29211 Vista Montana, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.5900, www.sjhhs.org.

UPCOMING: SUNDAY, JANUARY 25

MISSION SJC WOMEN’S GUILD FUNDRAISER 2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Mission San Juan Capistrano Women’s Guild invites members and guests to a fundraiser. Appetizers and wine tasting will be offered at Café Mozart, along with live entertainment. Admission is $35, and checks must be received by Jan. 15. Make checks payable to MSJC Women’s Guild and mail to: Carol Lowe, 27696 Paseo Clavel, San Juan Capistrano 92675. Café Mozart is located at 31952 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3634, www.missionsjc.com.

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

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

On Stage at the Coach House: The Jayhawks

BY CATHERINE MANSO

R

oots rock band, The Jayhawks, are performing at the Coach House on Monday, Jan. 12.

The group has been playing together for 25 years and is in the middle of their West Coast tour, celebrating reissues of three records, “Sound of Lies,” “Smile” and “Rainy Day Music,” which include bonus tracks, remastered vinyl and expanded booklets. Their repertoire for the evening will focus on the three records.

“It’s going to be quite an extravaganza, because there’s going to be seven people on stage, and we usually don’t have that

The Capistrano Dispatch January 9–22, 2015

big of a group,” said songwriter Gary Louris.

“It’s the biggest line up we’ve had ever.”

Members of the current touring band include Marc Perlman on bass, Kraig Johnson on guitar, Tim O’Reagan on drums, Karen Grotberg on keyboard, Jessy Greene on violin, John Jackson on mandolin and Gary Louris on guitar.

“It’s going to be a sound explosion,” Louris said.

The Jayhawks haven’t performed in Southern California since 2010, but the band has made an effort in keeping its music up to date. Louris said only a handful of bands can be great live and still create quality

The Jayhawks. Photo: Courtesy

music, and that’s what they do.

“Our music has aged well,” Louris said.

The young, up-and-coming band Trapper Schoepp will open for the Jayhawks.

Doors open at 6 p.m. The show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $35 and dinner reservations

Page 8

with priority seating are also available.

The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano. For tickets or more information, call 949.496.8930 or visit their website at www.thecoachhouse.com. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Everybody Play R.H. Dana Exceptional Needs Facility in Dana Point unveils playground upgrades courtesy of the Assistance League of Laguna Beach

Assistance League of Laguna Beach members joined R.H. Dana Exceptional Needs Facility school Principal Judy Dore (fourth from the right) for the official dedication of the school’s new playground equipment, funded by the League. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Children who are “wheelchair bound now

Zachary Stoddard can’t get enough of the new swings, installed as part of the recent improvements to the R.H. Dana ENF playground. Photo: Andrea Swayne

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

M

embers of the Assistance League of Laguna Beach joined R.H. Dana Exceptional Needs Facility school Principal Judy Dore on Dec. 10 for the official dedication and grand opening of the school’s newly improved playground.

The Assistance League, which has members from across south Orange County, donated $25,000 for playground improvements, designed to improve its accessibility to children with a wide range of disabilities. Most of the funds were raised via the organization’s thrift shop in Laguna Beach, along with private donations, said Judy Soulakis, the organization’s president.

“This school was brought to our attention by members who have had children who came here,” Soulakis said. “We visited and fell in love with the school and wanted to know what we could do to help.

It turned out playground equipment was a need, so we were thrilled to contribute.”

Equipment additions included an interactive wall, festooned with a number of interactive activities designed to be easily

The Capistrano Dispatch January 9–22, 2015

have swings they can be placed into. The children are having the time of their lives. They are loving it.

–Principal Judy Dore

”

reachable by all students, whether ambulatory or wheelchair-bound. Sand diggers with longer handles and special swings were also added to accommodate play by children in wheelchairs.

“We have a program at our chapter called the Early Intervention Program that supports babies from 0 to 12 months, who are developmentally delayed, and when they get to be school-aged, many of them come to school here as the next step,” said Gayle Whitaker, the Leagues’ philanthropic programs chairwoman. “We really felt a connection here. It makes a circle for us to expand our support to this school.”

Amid the cheerful sounds of children laughing and happily exploring the new equipment, Principal Judy Dore stood for photos with League members and expressed thanks for their support.

“This gives all of our children access to the playground equipment and for that we are very appreciative,” Dore said.

“Children who are wheelchair bound now have swings they can be placed into. The children are having the time of their lives.

They are loving it.” CD Page 10

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

Hotels and Residences Once Thrived Downtown

O

nce again, history and the present have come together in San Juan Capistrano. But a lot of what is being said is revisionist history in order to support current positions. The controversy is over building a hotel and townhouses in our downtown.

Some vocal residents are arguing that there is no reason for residential development in the downtown area. However, residential structures have a long history of success in downtown San Juan Capistrano.

The Historic Town Center Park was home to many residential adobes during the Mission periods and beyond. The adobes that once circled the park have disappeared but are not forgotten. The Burruel Adobe was built in 1850 and was both a residence and cobbler shop. By 1950, it disappeared because of deterioration. The Tejada Adobe was next to the Blas Aguilar Adobe and was built in the 1794 period.

The Blas Aguilar Adobe was built around 1799 for the stone mason who supervised the building of the Great Stone Church at the Mission. Blas Aguilar purchased the

adobe in 1841 and was the last Mexican Alacade (Justice of the Peace) in San Juan Capistrano under Mexican rule and the first under the United States. There are many foundations of early Juaneño dwellings that have been uncovered throughout the park.

The Canedo Adobe on the corner of El Camino Real and Ortega Highway also dates from the 1794 period. Canedo was a wealthy man who, when he wanted to refurbish the adobe, sent MOMENTS IN his men to San Francisco TIME

By Jan Siegel to obtain redwood for a staircase. The men contracted smallpox during the epidemic in Northern California and brought the disease back to San Juan Capistrano where it spread and took the life of Canedo himself.

The redwood wound up being used for coffins. Bodies awaiting burial in the Mission Cemetery were prepared in the Canedo Adobe. The adobe was torn down in 1963.

Flashback Friday In 1922, Camino Capistrano—known then as Highway 101—was a busy thoroughfare that attracted many visitors. The Hotel Capistrano, on the right, was a favorite stopover for tourists visiting the Mission.

Photo: Courtesy of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society The Capistrano Dispatch January 9–22, 2015

The Mendelson Inn was in the middle of what is now the Historic Town Center Park. The hotel had a general store, a meat market and a haberdashery. Fr. St. John O’Sullivan stayed at the hotel while restoring the Mission. D.W. Griffith, Mary Pickford and Mack Sennet were some of the notable personalities who lived at the inn while filming silent movies at the Mission. It was torn down in 1933.

The Egan House was not only used as a courtroom for Judge Egan, it was also his residence. Built in 1883, it was the place for many local social events.

Casa Grande was the home built for Don Juan Forster, but Forster died before the completion of the house and the home was occupied by his son Marcos Forster.

This house was built by Judge Egan, and with the bricks left over from building this home, Egan was able to build his own home.

The grandest home in San Juan Capistrano was the Avila Adobe built by Don Juan Avila in 1840. It had 10 rooms which extended to Verdugo Street. A fire in 1870 destroyed all but two rooms of the adobe

which still stand today.

The Yorba Adobe, next to El Adobe Restaurant, was built around 1840. In 1850, it was sold to the Oyharzabal family, who still live in it today. The Garcia Adobe next door was the first hotel in town.

There was a third hotel in town that was built by Fred Stoffel in 1920. It was located across from the Mission.

And of course, one cannot forget Los Rios Street, which is the oldest residential street in California.

Spend a “Moment in Time” and walk the streets of our downtown and reflect on all of the residences and hotels that have been here and continue to be part of our culture and our heritage. You can also take the Architectural Walking Tour on Saturday at 10 a.m. and the Historical Society Adobe Walking Tour on Sunday at 1 p.m.

Both walks start at the end of Verdugo Street by the train tracks. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Page 11

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SJC LIVING

Local Band Joint Committee Movie Inspires Appreciation Releases New for Life in Tri-city Area Album GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

I

Joint Committee, a local reggae/rock band, recently released their first studio-backed album. A release party is set for Jan. 17 at Fratello’s Restaurant & Sports Lounge in Laguna Niguel. Photo: Courtesy

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

L

ocal reggae/rock band Joint Committee released their first studiobacked album Christmas Day, titled “Break Free.” The band, which consists of Jeremiah Rich on vocals/guitar, Adam Gerhard on bass, Laverne Loranger on keys and Kevin Lyons on drums, has been together for three years and often plays at local venues in San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano.

“Break Free” was recorded at California Sound Studios in Lake Forest and took almost a year to finish, according to Gerhard. The band previously signed with Wright Records/Sony Orchard in February.

“We really took our time with this one instead of just rushing to get an album out,” Gerhard wrote in an email.

SCENE { IN S A N JUA N }

Gerhard said Jeremiah Rich “dug deep” with the album’s lyrics, tapping his personal experiences over the past year.

The band’s aim was to deliver a message of spiritual awakening while also keeping an upbeat, reggae vibe.

“We all have our opinion on which is our favorite track,” Gerhard wrote. “For me personally, I’m really proud of, ‘Changes Everything.’ It has a really meaningful message for people who are struggling to find meaning to their lives.”

Joint Committee is hosting a CD release party on Jan. 17 at Fratello’s Restaurant & Sports Lounge in Laguna Niguel. The party begins at 7 p.m. and includes a free show.

“Break Free” is available on iTunes and most major online music stores. Follow Joint Committee on Facebook at www. facebook.com/jointcommittee. CD

Local photographer Tony Tribolet captured this snowy San Juan scenery from Aguacate Road on Dec. 31.

t is not that my partner Greta and I needed to be reminded how blessed we are to live in the beach cities area. We mention it to each other several times a week.

But, on New Year’s Eve, that point was powerfully driven home to us in the Ocean Ranch Cinépolis movie theatre. We went to the 5 p.m. showing of Unbroken, the true story of Louis Zamperini, a USC graduate, who, during World War II, after an airplane crash, spent 45 days in a life raft and then two years in a prisoner of war camp. Seeing that movie made us appreciate what we have in life.

As we emerged from the theatre, we took each other’s hand and said, “We are so blessed to live here.”

Minutes later, at our Dana Point home, we popped a champagne cork and shared our thoughts on being so fortunate to live in our tri-city area.

“Besides ideal weather,” Greta said, ON LIFE AND “we are surrounded by LOVE AFTER 50 magnificent hotels. Just

By Tom Blake a week ago, as we do each Christmas Eve, we enjoyed a drink at the Ritz-Carlton. And from home, we can walk to Salt Creek Beach by passing through the grounds of the St. Regis. Plus, the Marriott has a million-dollar view and concerts and events on the grass in front of the hotel.”

Greta said she also feels blessed to have lived many years in San Juan Capistrano, with its multitude of activities—from enjoying the Mission San Juan Capistrano and the surrounding historical area, to the nearby library and its outdoor concerts.

I am a train buff, so I enjoy going to Sarducci’s restaurant to enjoy a meal as the trains roll in and out just a few feet away. In December, we saw Greta’s grandson Carson perform in the play, “A Christmas Carol,” at the nearby Camino Real Playhouse.

For 13 years, Greta and I lived in San Clemente. One of our favorite things to do

there was to walk the beach path between Pico and the Pier, and then grab a white pizza at Sonny’s restaurant, where it’s always hard to find an empty seat.

In March, we moved to Dana Point.

Dana Point Harbor is the gem of Orange County, available for everybody to use.

Walking from the Ocean Institute along the water and the 3,000 yachts, past inviting restaurants is uplifting and can also make you hungry.

The Harbor is a mecca for boaters, fishermen, kayakers, paddleboarders, walkers and runners. Speaking of walkers and runners; the annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot is the second largest running event on that day in California.

Another plus to living here is the multitude of attractions within an hour’s drive or so. Greta and I had planned to get up at 4 a.m. on New Year’s Day to drive to Pasadena to watch the Rose Parade. But, with the coldest New Year’s Day in 50 years forecasted, we opted to stay home and watch it on television. Louis Zamperini was to be the Grand Marshall of the parade, but he passed away in July at age 97.

The parade honored Zamperini with a float and two white USC mascot horses.

When I saw the horses, Traveler IX, with a Trojan rider in the saddle, was slightly ahead and tied with a white rope to Traveler VII, with an empty saddle—the symbol of a fallen soldier. Seeing those horses was dramatic and heart-warming.

For us, seeing Unbroken was a great way to start 2015, reminding us of our many blessings and leaving us eager to begin another year as grateful beach cities residents.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and business owner who has authored three books on middle-aged dating. For dating information: www.FindingLoveAfter50.com.

To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. CD

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

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FITNESS EQUIPMENT PILATES REFORMER Black Aero pilates reformer. Folds up for easy storage. Great workout at home. $175. 949.533.9761 GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 27126 Paseo Espada, Suite 1604, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com

BANKING

Independence Bank

32291 Camino Capistrano, Suite A, 949.373.8963, www.independence-bank.net

ELECTRICIANS

After-Hours Electric

Ca Lic #697355, 714.396.2188, 949.573.8386, www.bbb.org

Excel Electric

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

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

Excel Electric - CA #793860

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

GARAGE ORGANIZING

Karen Fischer, Professional Organizer, Kaos to Calm 949.355.3487, www.mymessygarage.com

JEWELER

Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design

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

MOLD REMOVAL

Jarvis Restoration

31942 Paseo Sagrado, 949.362.5388, www.jarvisrestoration.com

PHOTO & DIGITAL LAB

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

PLUMBING

Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com

WATER DAMAGE

Jarvis Restoration

31942 Paseo Sagrado, 949.362.5388, www.jarvisrestoration.com

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

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

SCHOOLS

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

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dana Rugby on the Rise

Local high school rugby squad builds on last year’s success, find themselves in first place

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he Dana Rugby Club’s Dec. 12 match against Mira Costa was just the second game on the schedule for both teams. The 2015 Southern California Youth Rugby high school white division season had just gotten underway and teams were beginning to find their identities. While remaining atop the standings is always important, the playoffs were still over one month away. A slipup here would not derail an entire season that lay ahead.

But for the Dana Rugby Club, that game meant a lot.

Last season, playing in the league’s developmental blue division, Dana Rugby Club and Mira Costa squared off in the division’s championship match. Mira Costa, an established program with several strong players, was able to outmuscle Dana, playing in their inaugural season, and claim the title.

In 2014, both teams were promoted to the league’s white division, which requires schools have 70 percent of team members hail from a home school which, for Dana Rugby, is Dana Hills High School.

In the rematch on Dec. 12, Dana Rugby proved that they had come a long way since last year’s successful season by defeating Mira Costa 35-12.

The winning did not stop there. Dana Rugby is currently 4-0 on the season and remains the only unbeaten team in league.

The Dana Rugby Club is currently 4-0 on the season and in first place in the Southern California Youth Rugby white Los Angeles division. Photo: Courtesy

They will look for a fi fth straight win this Saturday when they host Stern MASS of Los Angeles at Shorecliffs Middle School in San Clemente at 10 a.m.

“We ended up playing (Mira Costa) and we were able to beat them this year,” Dana Hills senior and team co-founder Drew Falk said. “It was great to get them back and hopefully we can get back in the final for this division and bring home a trophy.”

The Dolphins had the skill and athleticism to win games last season, but lacked the big bodies up front to win a championship. The Dana veteran leadership focused on attracting football players, especially linemen, to join the team.

After student-run presentations were made and word of mouth spread on campus, not only did the football players join up, dozens of players from Dana Hills,

Trabuco Hills, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano high schools signed up for the team. In the span of one year Dana Rugby has nearly doubled in size. The roster now boasts 40 players and even has a developmental squad of their own, which is similar to junior varsity.

The big bodied forwards up front have meshed to allow the Dana skill players, such as Falk, senior Gabe Wahl, and AllAmerican junior fly-half Anton Grigoriou to make an impact. Dana Rugby has outscored their opponents by a combined 134-46 margin this season.

The bigger players have helped, but so has the Dana Rugby Club’s new training regimen and game strategy that came with assistant coach Craig Hartley, a former USA National Team captain and coach.

Hartley instilled a demanding workout

Dana Hills senior Drew Falk, middle, is one of the Dana Rugby Club co-founders. Photo: Courtesy

plan for the team members, which has boosted the level of play, especially late in games.

“I really hammered these guys. This summer we were at the stairs every Monday, and this season they’ve been doing bleachers and all kinds of stuff they’ve never done before,” Hartley said. “They’re reaping the rewards in the second half of games. We’re shutting teams out in the second half of the game and that’s based on fitness. Our guys are sitting there ready to go for more while the other teams are bent over on their knees. It’s a noticeable difference.”

Following the match against Stern MASS, the team will play St. John Bosco to wrap up league play. If Dana Rugby wins out, they will enter the playoffs as the top seed. CD

Football: Local Alums in College Bowl Games COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

wo former San Juan Capistrano prep football standouts competed in college football bowl games for their respective universities this season. Here is a recap of the games that have already taken place, along with a primer for the games set to take place in the coming days.

ROSE BOWL JSerra Catholic graduate Casey Eugenio and the University of Oregon football team dominated Florida State University on Jan. 1 in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, picking up a 59-20 victory.

The Capistrano Dispatch January 9-22, 2015

Eugenio, who is listed as a running back, did not see time on the field this year as a freshman, but will be suited up when the Ducks square off against Ohio State University for the CFP National Championship Game in Arlington, Texas on Jan. 12. The game will be televised live on ESPN at 5:30 p.m.

TICKETCITY CACTUS BOWL The University of Washington could not overcome a 24-0 first half deficit in the TicketCity Cactus Bowl on Jan. 2, as Oklahoma State held on for a 30-22 victory in Tempe, Ariz.

Dante Pettis, a JSerra Catholic graduate and current Huskies receiver, reeled Page 14

in two catches for 26 yards in the loss.

After being blanked in the first half, the Huskies fought back in the second against Oklahoma State, outscoring the Cowboys 22-6 in the final two quarters.

As a freshman, Pettis played in 12 of 13 games for the Huskies and started four times. He was the team’s primary punt returner and was featured in the wide receiving unit. Pettis’ season highlight occurred on Nov. 1, when he recorded the first Huskies punt return for a touchdown since 2003 in a game against Colorado.

Pettis ended the season with 15 catches for 233 yards and a touchdown. He returned 28 punts for an average of 10.3 yards per return. CD

Dante Pettis runs the ball for University of Washington. Photo: Courtesy of University of Washington Athletics

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