December 22, 2017

Inside: Winter Happenings in this Issue of Go.See.Do. SPECIAL SECTION

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

DECEMBER 22, 2017-JANUARY 11, 2018 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 24

E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 8

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Take a look back at some of the top stories that defined 2017 in San Juan Capistrano.

Teachers Present United Front at Capo Unified Meeting EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

School District Approves Contract for Installation of Solar Panels EYE ON SJC/PAGE 4

Rotarians, Boys & Girls Clubs Bring Holiday Cheer to San Juan SJC LIVING/PAGE 24

GO TO THECAPISTRANODISPATCH.COM FOR THE LATEST NEWS, EVENTS AND SPORTS

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

Superintendent Kirsten Vital listens to Capistrano Unified Education Association President Sally White address the CUSD Board of Trustees on Dec. 6. Photo: Allison Jarrell

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week Teachers Present United Front at School Board Meeting; Fact-Finding Continues THE LATEST: As the fact-finding process continues for the Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) and the Capistrano Unified Education Association (CUEA), teachers are increasingly making themselves heard at Board of Trustees meetings, and they’re demanding a permanent increase to their salary schedule.

Negotiations between CUSD and CUEA have been taking place in closed session for over a year, and officially stalled back in June. In October, it was announced that mediation had failed.

The Board of Trustees meeting was at capacity on Dec. 6, and rather than let teachers line the walls like the board did on Nov. 8, the district’s security guards refused to let anyone in who didn’t have a seat. This resulted in dozens of teachers left in the hallway chanting, “Let us in!” about an hour into the meeting. Others stood in the dark holding signs that could be seen through the windows of the district building.

The board received a budget update from

Deputy Superintendent Clark Hampton prior to hearing public comment, which largely focused on explaining why CUSD cannot grant the pay raise teachers are asking for. Hampton told the board that compared to other school districts in Orange County, CUSD receives less in funding from the state per student due to the implementation of the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), which was enacted by the state in 2013-2014. Hampton said that compared to districts in Laguna Beach and Newport Beach, CUSD spends a higher percentage of funds on teachers’ salaries.

During public comment, CUEA President Sally White told the board that she’s “heartbroken” by the “low morale and broken trust” between teachers and district leaders.

“I represent more than 2,100 members who feel completely dismissed, unheard and undervalued,” White said to loud applause.

White shared a list of grievances, including accusations that Superintendent Kirsten Vital has shifted funds and priorities away from the classroom by allocating money to private consultants and buying new equipment, furniture and cars; and “creating additional district-level management positions exceeding the prerecession level of management” despite a decline in student population.

“Superintendent Vital, who earns one of the highest salaries among OC superintendents, has failed to negotiate a fair and equitable settlement, and is holding educators’ salary near the bottom in Orange County, crippling the future ability of the district to recruit and retain an excellent teaching force,” White said.

Vital, who was hired in 2014, earned $325,179 in total pay in 2016, according to Transparent California. In comparison,

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

the database shows that Newport-Mesa Superintendent Frederick Navarro Mafi earned $286,145 in total pay last year, and according to the Laguna Beach Indy, Superintendent Jason Vilario of the Laguna Beach School District began his job in July 2016 with an annual salary of $240,000. “(The) superintendent must refocus CUSD’s budget priorities back to the classroom and offer fair, competitive compensation to the educators of CUSD in order to recruit and retain the best educators,” White concluded. “Whatever the outcome of fact finding, we will somehow have to come together, restore broken trust and do the business of this district, which is the education of our students. It’s why we became educators. It’s why we show up daily to do our best, even when morale is at rock bottom.”

According to countywide school district salary settlement reports listed on CUEA’s website, of the 27 school districts in Orange County, CUSD was the sixth highestpaying school district on average in 2012-2013, but declined over the years to the 20th spot in 2016-2017. The data also shows that, on average, CUSD’s teachers make roughly $4,700 less than the average teacher in Orange County.

WHAT’S NEXT: The first fact-finding session for CUSD and CUEA took place on Dec. 12, and both parties agreed to participate in a second session slated for Thursday, Jan. 11.

During these sessions, a three-person panel reviews the arguments and proposals of each side and ultimately issues non-binding recommendations. If the fact-finding process does not result in an agreement, CUSD would then be able to impose its last, best and final offer. If the teachers’ union is not satisfied with that offer, district teachers would maintain the right to strike.

For more information on the negotiations, visit www.capousd-ca.schoolloop. com/cuea and www.cuea.org. —Allison Jarrell

ning, Susan Hardwegg, Kemmer Matteson, Harrison Taylor and Gaffney. The Council conducted candidate interviews at its Dec. 13 meeting and selected Gaffney in a 3-2 vote after hearing from all candidates except for Matteson, who was not present. The two votes against Gaffney’s appointment came from Council members Pam Patterson and Kerry Ferguson, who both voted for Fenning, a retired federal bankruptcy judge.

Gaffney and his family have a long history of civic service. Gaffney said his father was one of the city’s founding fathers and served on the city’s first Planning Commission from 1964 to 1973. His father was also involved with writing the city’s first General Plan in the late 60s and early 70s.

Following in his dad’s footsteps, Gaffney joined the city’s Traffic and Transportation Commission in 1986 and served off and on for 17 years until the commission was disbanded by the City Council in 2013. Gaffney also sat on a committee to rewrite the city’s General Plan in the late 1990s and served on the Open Space Committee for about six years. As president of the Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort (CARE), Gaffney said the group funded the majority of the Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park with a donation of over $111,000.

Gaffney is also a two-time past commander of the American Legion Post in town and a life member of the VFW Serra Post 3801.

Gaffney told the Council that he’s seen San Juan grow from 600 people to 35,000, and said the city needs to take a more business friendly approach to growing its economy.

“This city needs to get back to what we wanted to do, and we need commerce here. We need the sales tax revenue,” Gaffney said. “We need to get these projects through and get them going without having them be hung up so long at the commission level.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Gaffney will serve on the commission through March 31, 2019. —AJ

City Council Appoints Lifelong Resident to Planning Commission

Recall Petitions Still Awaiting Approval for Circulation

THE LATEST: On Dec. 13, the San Juan Capistrano City Council appointed lifelong resident and former city commissioner Matt Gaffney to a vacated seat on the city’s Planning Commission.

Gaffney has lived in San Juan for 62 years and currently serves as the vice president of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society and as a board member of the San Juan Capistrano Open Space Foundation.

The city accepted applications for the position through Dec. 1 and heard back from five interested residents: Lisa Fen-

THE LATEST: Petitions to recall City Council members Kerry Ferguson, Derek Reeve and Pam Patterson are still being processed and are awaiting approval from the City Clerk’s office before they can be circulated.

The notices of intent to recall for Ferguson and Reeve were initially submitted to the City Clerk’s office on Nov. 21, and the petition for Patterson was submitted on Nov. 27. All three Council members filed responses to the petitions.

(Cont. on page 4)

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www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) Two blank copies of the proposed recall petitions and proof of publication of the notices of intention were due to the City Clerk’s office on Dec. 8 for Reeve and Ferguson, and Dec. 14 for Patterson. The petitions for Reeve and Ferguson were submitted on Dec. 7 and returned to the proponents on Dec. 14 for corrections.

The proponents re-submitted the petitions to the City Clerk for further review on Dec. 18. The petition for Patterson was submitted on Dec. 12, returned for corrections, was re-submitted, and is still under review.

Per Elections Code, the City Clerk has 10 days from the filing date to review and notify the proponents of any findings and needed revisions.

WHAT’S NEXT: Once the City Clerk’s office has verified that the proposed recall petitions meet all the requirements of the California Elections Code, the proponents will have 120 days to collect the signatures of 20 percent of the city’s 19,227 registered voters—3,845 residents—for each petition.

The City Clerk’s office reported that the cost for an at-large special election would range from $95,000 to $106,000. —AJ

La Pata Commuters See Lane Shift as Widening Project Continues THE LATEST: On Thursday, Dec. 21, southbound drivers along Avenida La Pata were transitioned to newly-finished lane sections on the east side of the roadway between Gateway Place and Stallion Ridge in San Juan Capistrano. The latest shift is part of ongoing road widening improvements.

Orange County Public Works officials said there may be periods of brief traffic stops during construction activities.

WHAT’S NEXT: The widening improvements along Avenida La Pata are expected to be completed in April 2018. —AJ

TCA Moves Forward with Toll Road Proposals THE LATEST: The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) has selected seven toll road options out of 20 proposals to study further, some of which would go through San Clemente or San Juan Capistrano.

Four of the ideas are toll road connections to the 241. A screening document was released to the public on Dec. 18, showing the ideas, which are: • Idea 9: Connect Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway to Avery Parkway and SR 73 • Idea 11: Add I-5 general-purpose lanes from I-405 to San Diego County line • Idea 12: Add I-5 HOT lanes from I-405 to San Diego County line • Idea 13: Connect SR-241 to I-5 via the

Western Alignment (local connection at La Novia Avenue) • Idea 14: Connect SR-241 to I-5 via La Pata Avenue crossing (local connection at Avenida Pico) • Idea 17: Connect SR-241 to I-5 via Shorecliffs (local connection at Avenida Vaquero) • Idea 18: Connect SR-241 to SR-73 and extend Crown Valley Parkway to SR-241 Other ideas that have been considered were deemed part of other jurisdictions, not feasible due to costs or legal agreements, ineffective or premature.

The city of San Clemente and the County of Orange have settled a portion of an encompassing lawsuit the city filed against the Board of Supervisors and the TCA. Orange County agreed with the city that the Oso Parkway Bridge and Los Patrones Parkway must remain arterial routes that cannot be tolled. San Clemente’s city attorney said the legislation that authorizes the toll roads mandates roads can only be tolled if there are no other ways to fund such construction. Since Oso Bridge and Los Patrones are already fully funded, the argument is they can’t collect tolls.

This is significant to opponents of the toll roads, because many say opening the current terminus of the 241 route to tolls would pave the way to continue southbound construction toward San Clemente.

San Clemente City Council member Lori Donchak said during the Dec. 14 TCA meeting that the Oso Bridge is expected to be completed by March. Donchak sits on the Orange County Transportation Authority board.

The TCA is planning to begin its environmental impact report and environmental impact statement scoping by mid- to late 2018. The draft documents will not be ready until at least 2020.

WHAT’S NEXT: On Dec. 20, Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) chief communications officer Ryan Burris announced that the district has filed a lawsuit against the county (including various staff members), the TCA, and Caltrans over the Oso Parkway Bridge EIR addendum.

“Over the last few months we have engaged in discussions with the County of Orange about what appropriate mitigation measures should be included in the Oso Bridge and Los Patrones Parkway projects near Tesoro High School and Esencia K-8 School,” Burris said. “The County declined to incorporate any of our proposed mitigation measures into the Los Patrones or Oso Bridge projects (e.g. sound/air quality walls, air filters, sound attenuating windows, connector road/signal).”

Burris said the CUSD Board of Trustees “continues to have concerns over any projects that would adversely affect the health, safety, well-being and learning” of students, teachers and staff.

“We will continue to pursue efforts to mitigate any potential health impacts regarding these projects,” Burris said.

A copy of CUSD’s lawsuit can be found at www.capousd.org. —Eric Heinz/AJ

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

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South County School Roundup The latest South Orange County news from the Capistrano Unified School District

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

School District Approves Contract for Solar Power Conversion The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Dec. 6 to award an $18 million contract to REC Solar Commercial Corporation, a solar energy firm based in San Luis Obispo, for the conversion of six high school campuses and the district headquarters to solar power.

The firm will be responsible for designing and installing the solar panel shade structures. The $18,372,631 contract includes capital cost, performance guarantee, and operations and maintenance.

Previously, at the board’s Nov. 8 meeting, ARC Alternatives, the district’s energy advisor, presented an update on the Request for Proposals process for the solar energy project. The board approved funding for a solar feasibility study back in May. On Sept. 25, the district released its Requests for Proposals for the solar project. Russell Driver, of ARC Alternatives, reported that the district received 13 proposals on Oct. 20.

The solar project is expected to save about $849,000 a year, for a total of $21 million in savings over a 25-year period, according to CUSD officials. That’s roughly 44 percent of the district’s current utility bill.

Funds for the project will come from the government’s new Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBS) that are available solely for energy projects. Driver told the trustees on Nov. 8 that the goal is for the district’s savings to pay off the debt accrued.

Members of CUSD Solar Students, a group that has been working for years with district staff on the switch to solar, attended the Dec. 6 meeting to celebrate the next step of the project. The group originally petitioned the school district in February 2016 to install solar panels at each high school campus.

“I am honored to join my fellow students tonight in a project that has taken three years and is at its culminat-

ing point,” said student Kyle Krueger, who serves as president of the Tesoro Conservation club. “I’m honored to see the reality of CUSD solar tonight.

Through three years of hard work, meeting with solar energy experts, pitching procurement methods and presenting in this great [board] room, we received powerful support for this reality. You will leave a legacy with this vote for an entire next generation of students, parents, teachers, residents and board members who can benefit from this $21 million [in savings].”

Deputy Superintendent Clark Hampton told the board that the project will roll out in stages, beginning with installation of solar panels at a few campuses in 2018.

District officials said information regarding the CREBS financing for the project will be presented at the Jan. 24 board meeting.

Additional information can be found on the CUSD Solar Students’ website at www.cusdsolar.org.

CUSD Adopts ‘Philosophical’ Dress Code Policy, Specific Regulations On Dec. 6, the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees voted in favor of adopting a more philosophical dress code policy that includes a genderneutral focus, while also adopting an administrative regulation (AR) that will accompany the policy and will include a list of dress code do’s and don’ts, as well as details for implementing and enforcing the new policy.

Trustees decided earlier this year to consider updating the dress code when complaints arose at some schools about clothing worn by female students. A group of parents and students spoke out at an October CUSD meeting, voicing concerns that girls were receiving dress code violations from teachers for wearing tank tops and shorts during exceptionally hot weather.

Dec. 6 marked the third reading of the “dress and grooming” policy, and the board was presented with two options—a more generic and philosophical policy modeled after the California School Board Association (with additional language regarding gender neutrality), or a “streamlined” version of a more prescribed policy that was presented in October and created by a dress code task force of district staff and teachers.

After hearing comments from parents and students on both sides of the issue, the board ultimately voted 4-1-2 to adopt a more general policy.

Superintendent Kirsten Vital said the board’s feedback will be used by district staff and the task force to craft the AR, which will then be included in discipline handbooks and in faculty training so that implementation and enforcement of the new policy are equitable across the district. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC lowing 25 San Juan businesses as generating the most significant sales activity in the second quarter: 7 Eleven, Capistrano Ford, Capistrano Toyota, Capistrano VW/ Mazda, CCAP Auto Lease, Costco, Courtesy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, DM Color Express, Ferguson Enterprises, HD Supply, Hirsch Pipe & Supply, Honda Lease Trust, Kruse Design, Main Street Materials, Marshalls, Ocean Honda, Pacific Medical, Pacific Sales w/ Best Buy, Paradise Automotive, Plant Depot, Ralphs, Rite Aid, Ross, Shell, and Trevor’s at the Tracks.

HdL, Inc. reported that taxable sales for all of Orange County increased 4.1 percent over the same period, and the Southern California region was up 3.4 percent.

Community Meetings TUESDAY, JAN. 2

Because I Love You (BILY) Meeting 7-9 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You (BILY) helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. Presbyterian Church. 119 Avenida De La Estrella. www.bilysc.org.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 3

Downtown Farmers Market 3-6 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from dozens of vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday.

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

San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club 6:15-8 p.m. The Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano meets every Wednesday at the San Juan Hills Golf Club, located at 32120 San Juan Creek Road. For more information, visit www.sjcrotary.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 5

Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Hennessey’s Tavern, 31761 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

SATURDAY, JAN. 6

Free Saturday Film 10 a.m.-noon. The San Juan Capistrano Library welcomes families to enjoy free popcorn and a movie at La Sala Auditorium. This month’s film is Despicable Me 3. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1752.

TUESDAY, JAN. 9

Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. The city’s Planning Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www. sanjuancapistrano.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 11

Design Review Committee 4:30 p.m. The city’s Design Review Committee meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www. sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 12

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes

(From back left) Boys & Girls Clubs Area Director Nicole Watson, DP Community Cycling Foundation member Matt Nash, DP Community Cycling Foundation vice president Cyndi Elders, Boys & Girls Clubs Executive Director James Littlejohn, DP Community Cycling Foundation treasurer Steven Weinberg, and Boys & Girls Clubs Branch Director Arisbeth Bastidas pose for a photo with students Elle Smith, Abel Velasco, Alexander Rojas, Luke Leon, Simon Stein, Victoria Osorio and Bianca Paz. Photo: Allison Jarrell

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

Dana Point Community Cycling Foundation Donates $5,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs

Trauma Intervention Programs of Orange County Seeks Volunteers

The Dana Point Community Cycling Foundation awarded the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley with a $5,000 donation on Thursday, Dec. 7, which came from the proceeds of last year’s Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling.

Next year will mark the 12th annual cycling event in Dana Point, which has partnered each year with the Boys & Girls Clubs since its inception. The clubs’ staff help organize the kids’ races for the event.

“We love partnering with the Boys & Girls Clubs and teaching the youth about safe cycling in the community,” said foundation vice president Cyndi Elders. “That’s what the foundation is about.”

The Boys & Girls Clubs’ Executive Director James Littlejohn said the foundation has raised over $100,000 for the clubs over the last 12 years.

“I’d like to thank the foundation for what they’ve done for the kids, and for keeping our kids safe,” Littlejohn said.

Laguna Niguel Coldwell Banker Accepting Donations to Laura’s House The Laguna Niguel office of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is hosting a women’s clothing drive for Laura’s House, the only state-approved comprehensive domestic violence agency in South Orange County. During regular business hours, community members can drop off donations of new and unwrapped women’s comfort clothing, such as pajamas, robes

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

and socks in all sizes at the Laguna Niguel office of Coldwell Banker Residential.

Coldwell Banker Residential will take donations until Dec. 24 at its office, located at 28051 Greenfield Drive in Laguna Niguel.

People who want to be part of a team of volunteers who provide emotional first aid and practical support to survivors of traumatic events can join the Trauma Intervention Programs (TIP) of Orange County.

Volunteers are called to emergency scenes by police officers, firefighters and paramedics to comfort family members after a sudden death, provide caring support after a suicide, help witnesses after a traumatic event and be there for those emotionally shaken after traffic accidents.

TIP Academy training is required to graduate. Graduation from the program’s training will take place on April 25.

For info or to register, call 714.314.0744 or email tipincceo@aol.com. Visit www. tiporangecounty.org for more information.

City Sees Increase in Quarterly Sales Tax Revenue from 2016 The city’s adjusted sales tax revenue generated by second quarter sales was 2.3 percent higher than the same quarter in 2016, according to a report from the city’s sales tax consultants HdL, Inc. The report included analysis of merchant sales activity for April through June 2017.

During the second quarter of 2017, HdL, Inc. reported that automotive/ transportation businesses accounted for 28 percent of sales tax revenue, consumer goods came in at 24 percent, and restaurants contributed 12 percent.

The HdL, Inc. report identified the fol-

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City Conducts Disaster Preparedness Exercise City Manager Ben Siegel reported that on Dec. 13, city staff conducted an Emergency Operations Center disaster training exercise. About 40 staff members from the city, Orange County Fire Authority and San Juan Capistrano Police Services participated in the exercise.

For more information on disaster preparedness, visit www.ready.gov. For information about getting involved in San Juan Capistrano’s disaster volunteer opportunities, visit the city’s disaster preparedness website here: www.sanjuancapistrano.org/ Departments/Emergency-Preparedness.

Dana Point Police Arrest Man Suspected of Stalking; CUSD Suspects More Victims Dominic Luis Magdaleno, 25, of La Habra, suspected of stalking more than 15 women across social media platforms and threatening them with violence, was arrested on Dec. 7 by Dana Point Police Services (DPPS).

DPPS investigators were alerted to the suspect’s activity after a 19-year-old female victim came forward and reported that Magdaleno had been harassing her on Instagram. An in-depth investigation over a six-month period revealed that the suspect used Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr to stalk, harass and threaten female victims. In some cases, the suspect threatened to sexually assault, rape and even kill the victims.

Magdaleno was booked on suspicion of felony stalking, felony witness intimidation and felony criminal threats. He is currently being held on a $500,000 bail.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging anyone with information to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 714.647.7000. Anonymous tips may also be submitted at 855.TIP.OCCS. Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Trader Joe’s, Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, River Street Take a look back at the biggest headlines of 2017 COMPILED BY ALLISON JARRELL

Shoppers explore the new Trader Joe’s after the grand opening on Oct. 11. Photo: Allison Jarrell

B

efore we move full steam ahead into 2018, let’s take a moment to reflect on some of the highlights and biggest headlines of 2017.

JANUARY Hotel Capistrano developers announced a 2018 opening for the 102-room, 4-star boutique hotel, despite an unresolved lawsuit from a competing developer opposing the hotel’s approval. On Feb. 11, demolition of structures, including the vacant Birtcher-Pacific Building, began at the 3.18-acre hotel site. Landowner Steve Oedekerk said at the time that once demolition and some minor grading were completed, construction would begin. Since then, the Kimpton has remained mired in litigation, with several trial delays. The city announced in November that two lawsuits involving the previously approved Urban Village project have been settled—a move city officials hope will lead to the resolution of the Kimpton lawsuit. The city filed notice of the lawsuit settlements with the court on Nov. 14, and a few days later, a status conference for the case was scheduled for Jan. 12 at 9 a.m.

Despite her wish to serve another year on the Transportation Corridor Agencies board, Mayor Kerry Ferguson lost her TCA seat to District 5 Councilman Brian Maryott in a unanimous vote of the City Council on Jan. 12. Maryott told the Council that he offers a “fresh approach” on some of the region’s high-stakes transportation issues.

The Judge Egan House, which now houses Ellie’s Table, was added to the National Register of Historic Places, effective Jan. 17.

Since being featured in The Capistrano Dispatch’s “Green Issue” in April 2016, 7-year-old recycling entrepreneur Ryan Hickman, owner of Ryan’s Recycling, has made national and international headlines, from being interviewed on the “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” on Jan. 30, to being featured as one of five CNN Young Wonders in December. Hickman was also named

Trevor’s at the Tracks officially reopened to the public on Feb. 23 with a ribbon cutting.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

Part of the Birtcher-Pacific Building—which sat vacant at the Hotel Capistrano site—is seen being demolished on Feb. 14. Photo: Allison Jarrell

San Juan Capistrano Citizen of the Year by Mayor Kerry Ferguson on Dec. 5.

March 21, as well as adding a sewer line to the city-owned Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park by appropriating $462,900 from the agricultural preservation tax fund and $92,300 from the eastern open space fund.

FEBRUARY After closing for renovations last April, Trevor’s at the Tracks—formerly Sarducci’s Capistrano Depot—officially reopened to the public on Feb. 23 with a ribbon cutting and chamber mixer.

MARCH On March 1, the La Novia roundabout was completed and reopened to traffic, marking the end of about seven months of construction that transformed the fourway stop into a traffic circle.

The City Council voted unanimously March 7 to approve a schematic design for a proposed skate park in town, but the project is still far from becoming a reality.

The approval marks the first step in what could be a lengthy fundraising process for the park, which is now estimated to cost about $2 million.

City staff presented the Council with its mid-year financial report on March 21, and due to some significant unexpected expenditures, staff concluded that without additional revenue from incoming projects, the city faces a $1.5 million general fund deficit in the years ahead.

The Council approved the $1.7 million Del Obispo Street widening project on

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

APRIL The San Juan Capistrano City Council voted on April 18 to take a non-toxic approach to weed and pest control at city parks and open space areas by directing city staff to develop a new policy that would eliminate the use of weed killers such as Roundup in favor of organic methods.

MAY San Juan’s beloved cliff swallows returned to nest at Mission San Juan Capistrano this spring, which Mission Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence Adams described as a “sign of hope.” Dr. Charles Brown, a swallows expert, had been working for years on luring the swallows back to the Mission, and said a variety of factors may have contributed to the return, including the rough-winged swallows that were spotted nesting in the ruins of the Great Stone Church.

The Capistrano Unified School District officially broke ground at the Esencia K-8 school site in Rancho Mission Viejo on May 9. The school will open for the 2018-

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2019 school year beginning with kindergarten through fifth grade classes, and adding grade levels over time.

New flight paths from John Wayne Airport drew the ire of some South County residents who vocalized their concerns about increased airplane noise at a May 2 City Council meeting and at a May 15 community forum held by Orange County Supervisors Lisa Bartlett and Todd Spitzer in Laguna Niguel. The Council voted on May 2 to draft a letter to the Federal Aviation Association voicing the concerns of residents.

After considering 11 proposals, the San Juan Capistrano City Council voted in closed session on May 16 to enter into negotiations with Frontier Real Estate Investments, LLC for the sale and development of the downtown playhouse property and adjacent parking lot. Frontier’s proposal includes space for the “Capistrano Center for the Arts”—a new performing arts center with an auditorium seating approximately 250 people, a secondary black box theater with 60 to 100 seats and classrooms. The plan also includes street-front restaurants and retail shops, an open-air plaza adjoining the theater with the restaurants and shops, a boutique second-story creative office space, and two levels of subterranean parking that will provide approximately 250 parking stalls. The project will require a general plan amendment, and $10-12 million will need to be raised for the construction of the arts center.

The city rejected two notices of intent to recall filed May 19 and May 22 for Council member Sergio Farias because the petitions were “legally insufficient.” The group of residents who filed the petitions claimed Farias reneged on his campaign promise to oppose San Diego Gas & Electric’s substation expansion, even though he’s consistently voted to oppose the expansion.

JUNE On June 5, the Orange County Grand Jury issued a report, “Ortega Highway: Unnecessary Delays Have Cost Us Millions,” that claimed the San Juan Capistrano City Council’s inactions and delays to work on widening 0.9 miles of Ortega Highway have resulted in the loss of millions of dollars of taxpayer money. On Aug. 15, the Council voted 4-1 to publicly support Caltrans’ efforts to widen Ortega Highway, with Council member Pam Patterson opposed.

The San Juan Capistrano City Council voted 4-1 in closed session on June 6 to file a complaint in federal court against the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regarding its decision to approve San Diego Gas & Electric’s substation expansion in a residential area of San Juan. The city filed the lawsuit on June 23.

The CPUC denied the city’s request for a rehearing on Sept. 28, and U.S. District Judge Andrew J. Guilford dismissed the www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC city’s lawsuit on Oct. 16. The Council voted 4-1 on Oct. 17 to appeal the U.S. District Court’s dismissal. As the city enters the appeal process, SDG&E is continuing to do work at the project site that does not require city permits, such as surveying, soil borings and cleanup inside the old substation building. SDG&E does not yet have permits from the city to begin demolition, grading and construction.

The San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce installed its new board of directors and bid farewell to its departing CEO Mark Bodenhamer on June 7 at El Adobe de Capistrano. Bodenhamer was named Honorary Man of the Year for his seven years of service to the chamber.

Gerald Muir, who serves on three different city commissions in addition to his work with other local organizations, was honored as 2017 Man of the Year. Ann Ronan, outgoing chamber board member and local travel agent, was named 2017 Woman of the Year for her work with numerous organizations in town. Annabelle Isky, a 44-year resident of San Juan, was named the Ambassador of the Year. And Buy My Bikes, owned by Jim Curwood, earned the title of 2017 Business of the Year for outstanding customer service and devotion to the community.

Following a year-long hiatus, the San Juan Capistrano summer trolley service returned on June 9 for 13 consecutive weekends. The city reported that ridership exceeded expectations this year.

While there currently isn’t funding in the city’s budget for future trolley service, city staff is working on securing funding from other sources for a 2018 summer trolley.

On June 12, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department officially stopped including detailed summaries for each of its sheriff’s blotter entries, a move that has limited the media’s and the public’s efforts to glean information about recent crimes or calls for service in their communities.

FBI agents raided the behavioral health treatment provider Sovereign Health on June 13 for reasons not yet disclosed by authorities. The FBI also raided Vedanta Laboratories and the home of Tonmoy Sharma, CEO of Sovereign Health. Sharma later said in a statement that the FBI had unfairly accused the business. Sovereign filed a lawsuit in August that blamed an insurance provider for the FBI raid.

Contract negotiations between the Capistrano Unified School District and the Capistrano Unified Education Association stalled on June 29 after 16 bargaining sessions. The school district’s last offer to the union was a “two-year agreement that includes a 1.5 percent ongoing salary schedule increase effective July 1, 2016, a two-year increase (for plan years 2017 and 2018) to health and welfare benefits, and a retirement incentive for 2017-2018.”

CUSD and CUEA still haven’t reached an agreement and have entered into the fact-finding process after mediation failed.

Fact-finding will continue in January.

JULY Advocacy group Orange County Coastkeeper filed an amended lawsuit in U.S. District Court against the city of San Juan Capistrano and Blenheim Management over alleged Clean Water Act violations at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park—a 40-acre, city-owned equestrian and sports facility. The city is working on forging a long-term contract with park operator Blenheim Facility Management, while also working with state regulators to address concerns about riding park operations. Officials from the city and Blenheim say that since 2006 they have been making adjustments and improvements to the park’s procedures in order to comply with state regulators’ recommendations and current Best Management Practices, but Coastkeeper says those improvements are “piecemeal” and short-term.

On July 18, the Council approved a contract with Siemens Industry, Inc. to complete the initial analysis required to convert the city’s high pressure sodium street lights to LED technology. The final street light conversion contract is set to go before the Council for final approval on Jan. 16.

AUGUST The City Council voted unanimously on Aug. 1 to approve an exclusive negotiation agreement with Ganahl Lumber Company for the sale and development of the Lower Rosan Ranch—a 15-acre property off of Stonehill Drive. Ganahl Lumber’s initial proposal includes the Ganahl facility, a restaurant concept, and self-storage and car storage for neighboring auto dealers. The Ganahl store will sell lumber, building materials and hardware primarily to contractors and other professionals.

The crowd of seniors that packed into City Hall on Aug. 15 erupted in cheers after the Council voted unanimously to create permanent zoning for four seniorsonly mobile home parks in town. San Juan is home to seven mobile home parks, and four of those parks are seniors-only communities (ages 55 and over). The ordinance took effect in September.

Hundreds of people flocked to Caspers Wilderness Park on Aug. 21 to catch a glimpse of the solar eclipse.

The Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center celebrated its grand reopening on Aug. 26. After more than two years of closures, the museum officially reopened to the public back in April and has been open to visitors on the weekends ever since. Domingo Belardes, of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, curates the museum and has been working with the Blas Aguilar Adobe Foundation on renovating the adobe, creating the native garden, and restoring the courtyard between the Blas Aguilar Adobe and Casa Tejada. The Blas Aguilar Adobe is the last of 40 plaza adobes that were constructed in 1794 near the Mission to house soldiers and Acjachemen families.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

Ryan Hickman, 7, of San Juan Capistrano, was invited onto "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" in January to talk about his business, Ryan's Recycling Company. He was named SJC Citizen of the Year in December. Photo: Michael Rozman/Warner Bros

SEPTEMBER The Capistrano Unified School District held ribbon cuttings and tours of two new classroom buildings on the campuses of San Juan Hills High School and San Clemente High School on Sept. 21.

On Sept. 13, homebuilder Taylor Morrison officially broke ground on 70 new homes at Pacifica San Juan. The Cove at Pacifica San Juan will feature three openconcept floor plans that range from 1,836 to 2,068 square feet. Prices start in the low $700,000’s.

OCTOBER Dozens of joyous shoppers lined the sidewalk of the Mission Village Center on the morning of Oct. 11 for the grand opening of the plaza’s new 14,000-square-foot anchor grocery store, Trader Joe’s. The grocer initially received approval to open in the former Big Lots location in January.

Local nonprofit Goin Native Therapeutic hosted its first ever Fall Fest on Oct. 15 at Reata Park and Event Center.

On Oct. 22, Rancho Mission Viejo unveiled the final phase of homes in its Esencia community—the NorthWalk Neighborhoods. The first three neighborhoods unveiled are priced from the high $300,000’s to over $1 million. The rest of the new NorthWalk Neighborhoods will be unveiled with a series of grand openings taking place through early 2018.

NOVEMBER On Nov. 7, the San Juan Capistrano City Council voted 4-1 to move forward and initiate work on an environmental study and traffic impact analysis for the proposed River Street open-air marketplace off of Los Rios Street. With the approval of the environmental study and traffic analysis agreements, the project is on its way to eventually be reviewed by the city’s Design Review Committee, Cultural Heritage Commission and the Planning Commission before ultimately going before the Council for final approval. Public input will be received at commission and Council Page 9

hearings throughout the process.

The Council also voted unanimously on Nov. 7 to pursue amending the city’s General Plan and zoning map/development code in order to correct inconsistencies and ambiguities between the city’s guiding documents, including the Historic Town Center Master Plan (HTCMP). The Council initially discussed the possibility of repealing the HTCMP on Oct. 17, when Councilman Derek Reeve brought the idea forward. Reeve said that since the plan’s adoption in 2012, it’s been an “ongoing source of confusion and conflict.”

Council members Kerry Ferguson, Derek Reeve and Pam Patterson were each served with notices of intent to recall.

Those petitions are still moving through the review process and have not yet been approved for circulation. Once the City Clerk’s office has verified that the recall petitions meet all the requirements of the California Elections Code, the proponents will have 120 days to collect the signatures of 20 percent of the city’s 19,227 registered voters—3,845 residents—for each petition. The cost for an at-large special election would range from $95,000 to $106,000.

DECEMBER The San Juan Capistrano City Council reorganized at its Dec. 5 meeting, appointing Councilman Sergio Farias, of District 1, as the city’s new mayor and Councilman Brian Maryott, of District 5, as mayor pro tem.

Dozens of parents attended the Council’s Dec. 5 meeting to implore city officials to implement solutions at a San Juan Hills High School crosswalk where two students were recently hit by cars while trying to cross Stallion Ridge. Hundreds of concerned residents, parents and students have signed an online petition in an attempt to get the city to man the crossing with a guard, put in a light, or move the crosswalk toward the school so kids avoid contact with additional traffic from the Whispering Hills neighborhood. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Best of the San Juan Blotter 2017 Detailed record of emergency calls gone, but not forgotten

DISTURBANCE-MECHANICAL Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (Sunday, April 9, 5:34 p.m.)

A caller told police that a white ice cream truck was driving around blaring Christmas music and “selling ice cream to children and crack heads.” The ice cream truck driver had allegedly been told there is no soliciting in the private community, and the caller asked the deputy to make him leave. Police found that there was no property manager working at the time.

March

COMPILED BY STAFF

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) 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.

May TRAFFIC HAZARD Avenida Descanco/Avenida Mariposa (Tuesday, May 30, 5:06 p.m.)

“Children at play” signs were left in the middle of the street. The man who put the signs in the street told police that he would move them, but he intended to put them back in the middle of the street once the officer left.

CITIZEN ASSIST Paseo Don Jose, 31600 Block (Tuesday, May 30, 5:03 p.m.)

A caller told police that the pharmacy is stealing his OxyContin.

April SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Ortega Highway/Interstate 5 (Thursday, April 20, 9:36 a.m.)

A man was seen at the Shell gas station trying to buy items with a “giant” stack of debit cards.

BATTERY REPORT Avenida Aeropuerto, 26000 Block (Monday, April 10, 10:26 a.m.)

A woman told police that her neighbor had thrown water on her earlier that morning.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino Lacouague/Via Buena Vista (Wednesday, March 8, 3:39 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested for three male juveniles who were seen entering a large storm drain.

The California Coastal Commission approved plans for the Miramar Event Center on Friday, Dec. 15. Photo: File

News Next Door

February

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

WELFARE CHECK Ortega Highway/Interstate 5 (Sunday, Feb. 19, 11:09 a.m.)

A man playing drums and a woman with “very little clothing” on were seen in a field by the Best Western Hotel. The caller was concerned for the woman’s safety.

Both subjects were confronted by deputies and agreed to leave the area.

PETTY THEFT REPORT Paseo Adelanto, 32500 Block (Sunday, Feb. 5, 11:18 a.m.)

A man reported that his unlocked mountain bike was stolen at the corner of Los Rios Street and Del Obispo Street.

January KEEP THE PEACE Los Rios Street, 31300 Block (Tuesday, Jan. 10, 8:17 p.m.)

A woman was about to pay her rent but her landlord was being aggressive and verbally abusive. A deputy explained the civil process “and civility in general” to both of them.

PETTY THEFT REPORT Camino Capistrano, 32200 Block (Tuesday, Jan. 10, 4:53 p.m.)

A man told police that he left his backpack out on the curb of Wells Fargo for several minutes and returned to find it missing.

Editor’s Note On June 12, 2017, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department stopped including detailed summaries for each of its sheriff’s blotter entries. Residents can still access the sheriff’s blotter at OCSD’s website, but can only view the type of calls the department is responding to, as well as the date, time and location of each call.

In lieu of the detailed blotter entries, OCSD officials announced in June that a transition to an interactive crime map was in the works. OCSD said the new software, called Crime Mapping, would provide residents with the same information the current blotter does—type of call date, time and approximate location—but would not include details like before. That software has yet to be implemented.

Members of the public who are seeking detailed information about specific blotter entries are now required to submit email requests to OCSD’s records department at prarequests@ocsd.org.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

Man Arrested for Claiming to Have ‘Explosives,’ Assaulting Caregiver in San Clemente Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) officials said a man who claimed to have “explosives” and assaulted his caregiver in the Vista Pacifica residential complex at 1062 Calle Del Cerro in San Clemente surrendered and was taken into custody around 5:15 p.m. on Dec. 18. The man had barricaded himself in a unit, and deputies had to use tear gas and break down a door in order to arrest him. A video provided to the San Clemente Times on Dec. 19 showed the man coming out of his apartment with his hands in the air. No injuries have been reported at this time.

Christopher Cudin, 42, of San Clemente, was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and criminal threats, an OCSD press release on Tuesday stated.

San Clemente Police Chief Lt. Mike Peters said following a security sweep, it was discovered Cudin had tampered with a gas stove and had a few camping propane tanks in his possession, but no weapons that would detonate on command were found.

Police said they evacuated the area of the complex as the situation developed.

The standoff with officers lasted about five hours.

Peters told the San Clemente Times that Cudin was with his caregiver and assaulted the caregiver before alerting media outlets and authorities that he had explosives. The caregiver was able to escape the situation, Peters said. The condition of the caregiver is unknown at this time.

“The suspect used VHF radio to contact the U.S. Coast Guard and announced over radio he was armed with explosive devices,” the OCSD press release stated.

“He also called a local television station to report he had explosives in the apartment.”

Members of the OCSD SWAT, Hazardous Devices Section (HDS) and Crisis Assessment Team (CAT) responded to the scene at about 12:30 p.m. The Orange County Fire Authority also aided in the response, according to a press release.

Page 10

Police said at 3:09 p.m. deputies had contact with the suspect but that Cudin was not talking much. Over a loudspeaker, deputies could be heard trying to persuade him out of the unit. Tear gas was seen coming out of the complex from the side of Calle Del Cerro throughout the ordeal.

According to Orange County jail records, Cudin posted bail earlier this week and was released. The next court date for Cudin had not been posted to Orange County Superior Court dockets as of Dec. 20. —Eric Heinz California Coastal Commission Approves Plans for Miramar Event Center The Miramar Event Center rehabilitation project took possibly its largest step closer to fruition on Dec. 15 when the California Coastal Commission unanimously approved its application to establish a new theater and restaurant quarters.

The Coastal Commission put in a set of conditions to its vote, requiring the owners of the Miramar, El Camino Real Estate Holdings, LLC, and the city of San Clemente to devise a transportation plan, parking monitoring plans and areas of additional parking resources including bicycle racks. The conditions also include the need for reduction of hazards caused by construction and water runoff.

Although the Miramar Event Center has passed all government application approvals, building permits will still need to be issued by the city.

Marc Spizzirri, one of the primary operators of the LLC that owns the Miramar, said during a phone interview on Dec. 15 that he plans to lease the building to event organizations and restaurants.

“The immediate plan is to put the lease sign up, maybe after holidays or next week, then start collecting interest from potential tenants, then put a layout together that suits the needs of the tenants, then building permits,” Spizzirri said.

Spizzirri purchased the Miramar in 2007, but his clear title of the property was tied up in a lawsuit at the same time the Miramar was put on the market in 2011.

Since gaining a clear title, plans were put in place to renovate the dilapidated theater and bowling alley. —Eric Heinz www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Time to Wine Down Local wineries bring a taste of wine country to OC

BY VICTOR CARNO

New Year, New Travel Plans Become a tourist at home, and abroad

BY ANN RONAN

With the New Year coming up, what new travel experiences do you crave? Local gems you’ve missed, family vacations not too far from home, or an adventure to an exotic destination you’ve never visited? The best trips are transformational experiences— you come back from them informed and changed.

Right in your backyard Put on fresh eyes and be a tourist right in your own town. Take a walking tour and be surprised at the juicy bits of information you’ll pick up. Did you know there once was a jail in the basement of the El Adobe Restaurant in San Juan Capistrano? Take an Architectural Walking Tour any Saturday or a Historical Walking Tour on Sunday from the train station and be entertained by stories about the colorful characters who made San Juan Capistrano such a quirky town.

Wander a bit further by creating a train adventure to San Diego—it’s a walkable city and there’s plenty of ride share options for tired feet. Hop on the Old Town Trolley to get an overview of the city while experiencing “transportainment,” a fun combination of transportation and entertainment. The New Children’s Museum in downtown connects kids to the arts and creativity. It’s filled with bubbles, blocks, clay, paints and interactive games that tempt kids to indulge their imagination.

Grownups (21+) can eat and drink their way through downtown San Diego with a “Bite Tour.” The tour starts in the historic Gaslamp Quarter and is sprinkled with local gossip about celebrities and politicians who lived here. Pizza, gourmet Indian, handmade desserts and a rooftop view will delight all of your senses.

Experience a new culture Winter is the best time to visit Thailand with great weather, affordable, yet luxurious, accommodations and airfare under $1,000 from LAX. All this has made Thailand the number one international destination for the

second year in a row.

Good natured, friendly people give Thailand the nickname “Land of Smiles.”

You’ll immediately find yourself relaxing and smiling along with them.

Pristine white beaches beckon you to dive in and snorkel or, for the more adventurous, Thailand has some of the most beautiful rock climbing routes. When you are ready to reluctantly climb out of the turquoise sea, fill up on the endless options of mouth-watering cuisine, including beautifully blended spices in curries, noodles and stir-fried meats.

Your trip will be filled with mind opening experiences of an exotic culture centered on Buddhism with magnificent temples and palaces, a long history and fascinating archaeological sites. You’ll come home with a new appreciation for cultures far different than ours.

Ann Ronan is a San Juan Capistrano travel consultant with a passion for making memorable travel simple. She offers her clients a unique combination of specialized knowledge, firsthand experience and strong personal contacts in the travel industry. She can be reached at ann@sjctravel.com or at 949.702.3977. Visit her website at www.sjctravel.com.

Find out more San Juan Capistrano Architectural Walking tours: Saturday from 10:00-11:30 a.m. weekly. Donation $5. Group tours available by appointment at 949.489.0736.

Orange County is not the first place that comes to mind when thinking of wineries and vineyards, but rest assured, a trip to Paso Robles or Temecula isn’t necessary to experience an aerated, full bodied wine with an oaky finish and heady legs. For those who don’t speak wine, that just means “good wine.” Cut the travel time and highfalutin terminology with wineries right here in our backyard.

Take a tour through these highly rated Orange County wineries as you venture up the coast this winter, or at any other time of the year.

Rancho Capistrano Winery

26755 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.6682, www.ranchocapistranowinery.com.

With a record of 10 “Best of San Juan Capistrano” People’s Choice Horseshoe Awards wins, Rancho Capistrano Winery in San Juan Capistrano is an ideal place to start your wine tour through Orange County. Head winemaker Kylie Huffman and Chef Adrian de La Torre combine to make a powerful one-two punch of both great wine and great food.

“We originally intended to have some food just to keep it weird, but our food menu kept growing and growing by popular demand,” Owner Kyle Franson said.

“I’m partial to our truffle mushroom flatbread, paired with a smoky Tempranillo.”

Stop by any day of the week for a $15 wine tasting that includes a flight of five wines. With over 50 different wine selections and growing, it won’t be hard to find a wine suitable for any palate.

Laguna Canyon Winery

2133 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.715.9463, www.lagunacanyonwinerey.com.

Brothers Marlowe and Darren Huber brought 20 years of winemaking experience from British Columbia to Laguna Beach in 2003. Since they opened the winery in Laguna Beach 15 years ago, they

have continued to provide award-winning, artisan wine to Orange County locals and tourists alike. With five award-winning wines from the 2017 Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition, the Huber brothers offer a wine tasting experience that rivals any.

Fan favorites include their savory Sonoma Valley syrah and “Purple Paws,” a fruit-forward red blend that donates a portion of proceeds to a homeless animal shelter. Wine tastings are $2 per taste and are offered every day of the week except Mondays.

Orange Coast Winery

869 W. 16th Street, Newport Beach, 949.645.0400, www.orangecoastwinery.com.

As you make your way up the coast, you would be remiss to pass over Orange Coast Winery. With a graduate degree in food science, co-owner Doug Wiens knows exactly what goes into a superior wine.

“Superior wine starts with excellent vineyard management,” Wiens said when discussing his approach to providing his customers with wine connoisseur-grade vino.

Debbie Wiens, co-owner of Orange Coast Winery and wife to Doug, brings the ambiance and personality to the business. Together, they produce over 16 different wine selections ranging from dark cabernet sauvignons to tropical viogniers.

As the holiday season is upon us and winter approaches, Wine Club Administrator Courtney Marton recommends their Endless Summer Big Wave ($59 a bottle) red blend to accompany any holiday meal.

“The Big Wave is a blend of cabernet franc, merlot and cabernet sauvignon and really pairs well with any hearty meat and potatoes meal.”

Orange Coast Winery offers tastings for $20 and includes six wines. A variety of whites, reds and sparkling wines are available to try too.

San Juan Capistrano Historical Society Walking tours: Sunday from 10:00-11:30 a.m. weekly. Donation $2. Group tours available by appointment. 949.483.8444.

The New Children’s Museum: 200 West Island Ave, San Diego. Monday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Sunday noon-4:00 p.m.

Cost is $13 per person.

Bite Downtown San Diego Tour: Saturday and Sunday at noon. Lasts three hours over a two-mile route with visits to five or more restaurants. $47 per person. www.bitesandiego.com Thailand: Travel agents can quickly put together the best priced packages for you and suggest activities depending on your interests. Visit www.tourismthailand.org.

Rancho Capistrano Winery head winemaker Kylie Huffman (right) and Chef Adrian de La Torre (left) combine to make a powerful one-two punch of both great wine and great food. Photo: Victor Carno

SOUTH COUNTY DINING

Soup’s On! Try warming up with these three soups

BY ALLISON JARRELL

It’s no secret that Southern California doesn’t suffer from unbearably cold winters. But even the most warm-blooded of West Coasters can find themselves a bit chilly when the temperature dips below 50 degrees at night.

For those cool winter evenings, why not warm up with some soup? Below are three offerings from South Orange County restaurants that feature a fresh take on classic recipes.

Sundried Tomato SOUP

Sundried Tomato American Bistros & Catering, 31781 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 821 Via Suerte, San Clemente, 949.661.1167, www.sundriedtomatobistro.com.

When Sundried Tomato restauranteur Rob Quest first opened what began as a catering company, he debuted a sundried tomato marinade with some of his dishes.

Eventually, the popular marinade was tested as a soup and was such a big hit, that it inspired Quest to open a restaurant of the same name.

“The tomato soup has been embedded in the history of the restaurant since 1993,” said general manager Saul Cruz.

“It’s kind of our trademark.”

Cruz said the marinade base of the soup needs 24 hours before being mixed in with an array of herbs, olive oil, garlic and balsamic vinegar. The marinade is then blended with a few other ingredients to create the creamy soup that local patrons know and love.

Sundried Tomato serves its namesake soup in cups or bowls, as part of a “half and half” meal accompanied by a salad or sandwich, and even as a sauce in some of their pasta dishes.

BEEF Pho

Pho Thanh Binh, 107 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente,949.369.3879.

Paul Bui, owner and chef of Vietnamese restaurant Pho Thanh Binh, is a firm believer in understanding and appreciating the history and culture behind the food we eat.

Bui is passionate about sharing the history of traditional pho—a Vietnamese noodle soup—and explaining the differ-

ences between regional recipes and how the quality of the ingredients makes or breaks authentic, delicious soup.

“Traditional pho is made with beef or chicken,” Bui explained. “But I came here, and lots of clients wanted seafood and vegetable pho.”

Bui accommodated the new requests, while also staying true to his roots over the last few years. The type of pho he serves is from North Vietnam and usually consists of beef or chicken, rice noodles, some onion and cilantro, and beef broth.

He also serves his generously-sized bowls of pho with toppings one would commonly find in South Vietnam—bean sprouts, basil, lime and jalapeños.

A bowl of Bui’s seemingly-bottomless pho is more than enough to satisfy even the most intense of hungers. But if you have room left, finish the experience with a sweet Vietnamese iced coffee.

Kabocha Pumpkin Soup

The Little Kitchen Asian Café, 24831 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, 949.276.7799, www.thelittlekitchenasiancafe.com

For over six years, The Little Kitchen Asian Café in Dana Point has been changing its patrons’ perceptions of what a Chinese restaurant can and can’t serve— one bowl of pumpkin soup at a time.

“Initially, we weren’t too confident, because typically you don’t find pumpkin soup in a Chinese restaurant,” Lian said.

“But we wanted to bring something different to the table.”

The Kabocha Pumpkin Soup has been on the restaurant’s menu since day one, and the risk definitely paid off. Restaurant operations manager Chris Lian said the simplistic recipe has become a favorite among regulars, which is meticulously made every morning.

The signature pumpkin soup features California-grown Japanese pumpkins, some cream, a little butter and a dash of sugar.

Even though the recipe is fairly simple, creating the soup is anything but. Lian said prepping the pumpkins takes quite a bit of time—from removing the outer skin and scraping out the insides, to steaming the firm pumpkins for a couple hours until they’re soft enough to blend.

The tedious process is the reason why the soup is only offered after 4 p.m.

The Little Kitchen also offers traditional Chinese soups—wonton soup, egg drop soup and a hot and sour soup.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, in California?

Escape to these nearby hubs for a winter wonderland experience

LAKE TAHOE

BY RACHAEL MATTICE

Tis the season for savory feasts, family gatherings and reflecting on goals. Winter in Southern California is moderate and can often still equate to bathing suit weather, even with the strongest of prayers from four-season lovers. For those cursing the sun, sporting heavy-duty sweaters and sipping hot tea while dreaming of white flurries falling from the sky, there are several winter wonderland destinations to visit while staying within state lines. These cozy mountain towns offer romantic getaways, kid-friendly activities and adventurous outings for a Jack Frost-filled winter of fun.

Southern California

Central &Northern California

Idyllwild, Wrightwood, Lake Arrowhead

Mammoth Lakes, Lake Tahoe, McCloud

Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours by car Length of Stay: Weekend Southern California is home to a few snow-filled stops that are convenient for a weekend getaway. Idyllwild, a quaint community nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, is home to sweet cedars and a population of under 4,000. Locallyowned shops and restaurants fill the streets, making it the perfect stop for a hot cup of cocoa, building a snowman or taking photos of the scenery.

For those looking to downhill ski or snowboard, mountain communities like Wrightwood are preferred. Located only 15 miles off of Interstate 15 in the San Gabriel Mountains, visitors enjoy common activities such as camping, fishing, hiking and skiing. Wrightwood is home to access points such as Mt. Baden Powell, the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail and Angeles National Forest, the latter offering plentiful opportunities for sledding and other snow play.

Lake Arrowhead is the largest unincorporated community of the three Southern California “hot spots” within the San Bernardino Mountains and offers several resort hotel accommodations for rest and relaxation. Rent a cabin from the trendy Saddleback Inn and Grill and enjoy rustic décor and a warm fireplace after a day of exploring.

Travel Time: 5.5, 8.5, 10.5 hours, respectively, by car Length of Stay: Three or four days The majestic Mammoth Lakes is a popular year-round hub, but fills up quickly for the winter months. Crosscountry skiing, snowboarding, snow biking, snowcat tours, snowmobiling and ice climbing are in abundance in this winter playground.

Northeast of San Francisco lies Lake Tahoe and surrounding Truckee and Squaw Valley villages. Conditions are ideal for skiing and swooshing through white powder while laid-back travelers might find comfort in the nearby casinos or with horse-drawn sleigh rides in South Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is also home to many artists and rejuvenation stations like Fifth Element Healing Center and Atelier for those looking to attend regular gallery showings or a wellness retreat.

McCloud is a small town accessible through the Mt. Shasta Cascade region of California, connecting visitors to nearby McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park and Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Much like many of the other winter destinations, this Northern California secret includes breathtaking views for snowboarding, skiing and even dog sledding, but offers a lot of reasonable prices and packages.

When the Weather Outside is Frightful Stay inside, learn and explore OC museums

BY VICTOR CARNO

While it is a blessing to have surf and sun here in South Orange County yearround, there are days where the temperature drops below 72 degrees and the cardigan makes its annual debut. On such a day, a museum is a fun and educational way to spend a cold, rainy day. Not all museums are endless hallways of avantgarde pieces you have to pretend to understand; there are plenty of museums in the area where you can learn about aerospace engineering or our rich history in surfing and Native American artifacts.

Here are a few must-see museums in the tri-city area and in the greater Orange County area to explore this winter.

• Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and

Acjachemen Cultural Center 31806 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.751.7258, www.sanjuancapistrano.net

A work of art in and of itself, the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center is one of the last plaza adobes to house soldiers and local Native Americans who worked at the Mission San Juan Capistrano in the 18th century. Originally described as the “House of Hope,” the Blas Aguilar Adobe features a native plants garden along with artifacts that portray the interactions between European settlers and the village of Acjachema in the 1760s. After years of closure and renovations, the museum was reopened in 2017. Visit Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free.

• Crevier Classic Cars 365 Clinton St, Costa Mesa, 714.426.0238, www.crevierclassiccars.com.

Unlike most museums, Crevier Classic Cars is not a curated compilation of exhibits, but rather an active community of gearheads. The space acts as a storage facility for classic, ultra-rare and exotic cars. Almost every vehicle is privatelyowned by a member or is on sale.

“We are really a club. We have a pool table, a bar and members store their cars here,” General Manger Jeff Vitz said.

Besides being an active community, Crevier offers car enthusiasts a trip down automotive history lane, offering the public a place to host events amongst the engineering marvels. Visit any day of the week; admission is free.

• Discovery Cube Orange County 2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, 714.542.2823, www.discoverycube.org.

The Discovery Cube Orange County has been making science fun for over 35 years with hands-on science exhibits for children of all ages. The museum has over seven interactive exhibits including the shake-shack and the hurricane tube always on display for guests, but new exhibits are continually rolled out. Right now, guests can enjoy a new exhibit featuring a virtual helicopter tour over the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

The Discovery Cube is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and tickets are $17.95 for adults or $12.95 for children.

Surfing Heritage and Culture Center 110 Calle Iglesia, San Clemente, 949.388.0313, www.surfingheritage.org.

The Surfing Heritage and Culture Center (SHACC) is a nonprofit organization with three simple goals—to preserve, present and promote the sport of surfing. Home to four original Duke Kahanamoku boards, SHACC prides itself on preserving even the earliest surf artifacts and photographs. “We have everything from bins of surfing video games, to wet suits, to the complete The Endless Summer collection, including its artwork, posters and film cameras,” said Barry Haun, curator for SHACC. “We even have boards that belonged to Kelly Slater and Andy Irons.” If photography piques your interest, SHACC has over 100,000 images displayed throughout the museum.

SHACC is closed on Sundays, and admission is free, but a $5 donation is suggested.

Hot Yoga Where to try it: Orange County Yoga Studio, Bikram Yoga San Clemente www.ocyogastudio.com, www.bikramsc.com

Heating Up

Photo: Meera Michelle Photography

Sweat your way to total body wellness this winter with these exercises

BY RACHAEL MATTICE

The changing of the seasons and shorter days of winter often draw people inward, hiding from outside activities, problems, emotions and regular behaviors. People choose to stay in and watch movies rather than meet friends, or choose to indulge in comfort food rather than embrace the colder temperatures as an opportunity to head to the gym. Adding warmth back into routines during the dark months can make a dramatic impact on mood and energy. Exercise that cultivate heat such as yoga, cycling and high intensity interval training (HIIT) are a few examples that can invigorate oneself out of hibernation and back to wholeness, whether that be physically, mentally or emotionally.

The well-known Bikram Choudhuryfounded yoga practice traditionally follows a sequence of 26 poses and breath work in a heated room. A mixture of strengthening and stretching specific muscles, ligaments and joints, the deep cleansing, total body exercise leaves the practitioner soaked in sweat by the end of the class.

The extensive heat in traditional Bikram or hot yoga classes—which can be tried out at Bikram Yoga San Clemente—may not be suitable for everyone, which is why some yoga businesses such as Orange County Yoga Studio focus on different disciplines that cultivate heat from within.

“Our flow and ashtanga classes—both focus on linking breath and movement—are energizing,” said John Manacmul, co-owner and instructor at Orange County Yoga Studio and former instructor at San Clemente’s Asana FIT studio. “Many yoga postures are effort-driven and physically demanding, including standing poses, inversions and backbends. Our teachers carefully sequence to warm up their students and prepare their bodies for more advanced postures. Even in our align class offerings— which emphasize the precision of asana alignment and use of props—students will

find themselves building a lot of internal heat by working and refining specific actions associated with a variety of poses.”

Cycling/Spin Where to try it: CB CycleBarn, CTL Cycling Studio www.cbcyclebarn.com, www.ctlcyclingstudio.com

Cycling classes offer the ultimate cardio therapy, yielding massive heat-produced sweat puddles. Fast-paced and typically accompanied by music dripping in heavy bass, an hour-long cycling class can burn hundreds of calories, leaving the exerciser steaming and in need of an extra pair of clothes just to drive home.

High Intensity Interval Training Where to try it: PedalBox Gym, Total Training www.pedalboxgym.com, www.totaltrainingfit.com

For those who find themselves restless from a routine-based program, high intensity interval training (HIIT) is the metaphorical box of chocolates—a variety of strength, cardio and circuit training that changes themes every day. This high calorie-burning technique alternates between intense bursts of activity and fixed periods of less-intense activity that are guaranteed to leave muscles on fire.

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

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> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

EDITORIAL

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick

Group Managing Editor > Rachael Mattice City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell

ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith

City Editor, DP Times > Daniel Ritz

Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex

City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz

OPERATIONS

Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Tim Trent, Victor Carno

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 15, Issue 24. 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.

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Letters to the Editor SAN JUAN SHOWED KINDNESS, GENEROSITY AND FRIENDSHIP DURING LILAC FIRE —Joan And Phillip Schwartze, Bonsall On Dec. 7 at 1:54 p.m., we received an emergency alert to evacuate our Bonsall ranch as the high winds were spreading the fire which started along I-15, faster than we knew possible. We were prepared and quickly loaded up four horses, nine (rescue) dogs, four cats and a parrot. We made two trips to a nearby evacuation point, Guajome Park in Oceanside, only to be further evacuated from there a few hours later, in the dark, as the fire raced westward.

We called Kathy Holman at Ortega Equestrian Center and she said, “Bring them.” We made two more trips up, with Kathy meeting us there each time and helping us to put frightened horses and our two big, scared dogs into stalls. Our little dogs, cats and the parrot were placed in a horse trailer.

At 11.30 p.m., we showed up at our former neighbors’ Dean and Sharon Pollinger, who opened their hearts and their home to us for four days. In their lovely guest room, we viewed on our iPhone the San Diego television crew filming the firemen fighting what was now being called the Lilac Fire on our very street at 2 a.m., just before the coverage ended for the night. At that point, we were pretty sure we were about to lose our home.

Early Friday morning, we went first to the stables to check on the animals and then relocated the nine dogs and four cats to Zuri Pet Spa, where owner Jen Harris and her wonderful staff welcomed our 13 pets, despite no advance warning. We bought a canary cage at Petco and the parrot took up residence with us at the Pollinger’s.

While at the stables, we received a call from John Humphreys at Ramos House Cafe, inviting us to come over for lunch which, he insisted, was on him.

Our horse tack box was left at home, so I went to American Horse Products, where they helped me find some much needed horse supplies, and where Julie generously donated a pair of rubber boots to use so I could clean up our horses.

We took our residential hosts to dinner at L’Hirondelle, where owner Ali Golesorkhi quietly said to Phillip, “I do not have much, but whatever you need is yours.”

On Saturday morning, we received word that our home was still standing, although many of our neighbors lost everything.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

Page 19

The Lilac Fire burns in San Diego in this Dec. 9 image. The fire was 100 percent contained on Dec. 16, with a total of 4,100 acres burned and 157 structures destroyed. Photo: Jeff Hall/CAL FIRE

At this writing, our dogs/cats/parrot are home at the ranch with us, and we hope to transport the horses tomorrow.

Our property was completely unharmed by the fire.

We cannot thank the wonderful people of San Juan Capistrano enough for their kindness, generosity and friendship during this terrible, trying time. San Juan is a great city filled with great people. We know that firsthand. And we are here for you, should you ever need help.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY 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.

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

EDITOR’S PICK

FREE COMEDY 8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Bloom’s Irish Sports Bar with food and drink specials. There will be local and professional talent. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120.

Thursday | 28 GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join volunteers, students and teachers at Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens to care for and maintain native plants and butterflies. No experience is necessary (they’ll teach you), but you should bring gloves and clippers. No class if it rains. Admission is free. Los Rios Park.

31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

Photo: Courtesy

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26: SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO ELF CRAWL 2-7 p.m. Dress like an elf and receive discounts at five local eateries in San Juan Capistrano when you participate in the seventh annual Elf Crawl. The crawl starts at Ricardo’s Place at 2 p.m. and ends at Five Vines Wine Bar. Other stops include Ruby’s Sky Ranch, Trevor’s at the Tracks and Hennessey’s Tavern. Kids and dogs are welcome to join from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. Search for the “2017 Elf Crawl” event on Facebook to view the complete schedule. Ricardo’s Place. 32082 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.4700. www.sanjuanchamber.com.

The List What’s going on in and around town COMPILED BY VICTOR CARNO

Friday | 22 HENNESSEY’S AWESOME UGLY SWEATER CHRISTMAS PARTY 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Break out those ugly Christmas sweaters for a day of holiday-themed food and libations at Hennessey’s Tavern.

Mistletoe martinis and hot apple pie will be served. A $25 gift certificate will be given to the person with the ugliest Christmas sweater. 31761 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.441.4777. www.hennessystavern.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE VINTAGE STEAKHOUSE 6-9 p.m. Mike De Bellis, plays smooth jazz every Friday and Saturday. Enjoy a twist on a classic American steakhouse while dining in a restored Pullman train car. The Vintage Steakhouse. 26701-B Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.3400. www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

Sunday | 24 GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell

Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park.

Parking is $5, the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

CHRISTMAS EVE AT EL ADOBE 11 a.m.-9 p.m. El Adobe de Capistrano invites members of the public to enjoy a special Christmas menu created by Chef Carlos. 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1163. www.eladobedecapistrano.com.

Monday | 25 CHRISTMAS DAY HOLIDAY BUFFET Noon-4 p.m. The Ritz-Carlton invites all to enjoy a holiday buffet with friends and family. Admission is $125. Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www.ritzcarlton.com.

Wednesday | 27 CANNON BATTLE SAILS 2-5 p.m. Climb aboard your favorite tall ship and learn the history that helped shape the Dana Point we know today, all while reenacting cannon battles with other visiting tall ships. Register online to reserve your spot on your favorite tall ship.

Admission is $65 for adults and $55 for children four and older. See site for other dates and times. Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

TAP TAKEOVER AT PUBLIC 74 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Bell’s Brewery and San Juan Capistrano’s PUBlic 74 invite members of the public to a night of specialty beers and food pairings. Admission is free.

PUBlic 74. 27211 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.481.2723. www.publicrestaurants.com.

Friday | 29 MISSION ART WALK 11 a.m. A docent-guided tour highlighting the art collection of rare paintings related to the Mission’s history. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90-minute evening cruise aboard the luxury catamaran. The cruises run Friday and Sunday evenings. Tickets are $49. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

Saturday | 30 SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Millertime Boogie, followed by Hollywood Hillbillies at 8:30 p.m.

Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Sunday | 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE BROADWAY TIME 6-9:30 p.m. Party with your friends at the Camino Real Playhouse on New Year’s Eve. There will be a dinner provided by Sundried Tomato, as well as live music from Martin Gerschwitz and Gina Kessler.

Comedian Tom Riehl will also perform. A champagne toast will take place when the

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ball drops in New York City (at 9 p.m.).

Tickets are $68. Camino Real Playhouse.

31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY WITH GRAND JUNCTION 8 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Swallow’s Inn while listening to live music by Grand Junction. Tickets are $20 per person in advance ($25 at the door) and includes party favors, a champagne toast at midnight and midnight snacks.

Tickets are limited. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

HENDRIX NIGHT LIVE NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY 9 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Ring in the New Year at Hendrix Restaurant and Bar. Enjoy food, drinks, and live performances from Addie Hamilton, Sonic Boom and local favorite Stone Jones. Tickets start at $25.

Hendrix Restaurant and Bar. 32431 Street of the Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel.

949.248.1912. www.hendrixoc.com.

Monday | 01 KOI FISH FEEDING 12:45 p.m. Every day visitors are welcomed to help Mission San Juan Capistrano feed their koi fish in both courtyards.

Fish food is free for Mission Preservation Society members and $1 for non-members.

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

Tuesday | 02 OCEAN EXPLORER WINTER DAY CAMP 9a.m.-4 p.m. Children 6 to 12 are welcomed aboard the historic tall ship, Spirit of Dana Point, for a day of exploring Dana Point’s marine ecosystem. The Ocean Explorer Day Camp takes place Wednesday and Thursday as well. $85 per day. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.oceaninstitute.org.

Friday | 05 FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7-9 p.m. The Friends of the Library presents The House starring Will Ferrell and Amy Poehler at La Sala Auditorium in the San Juan Capistrano Library. $2 donation.

31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.2688, www.facebook.com/SJCFriends.

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to The Capistrano Dispatch by going to www.thecapistranodispatch.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT On Stage at the Coach House:

Donavon Frankenreiter

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH Photo: Lucasfilm Ltd. © 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd.

At the Movies: Johnson Keeps ‘Star Wars’ on Track

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

tar Wars: Episode VIII— The Last Jedi surprisingly became the most divisive and polarizing movie to end 2017. After J.J. Abrams revived the franchise with the very successful, but very creatively safe, Episode VII— The Force Awakens (2015) and then Gareth Edwards gave us the barely decent side film Rogue One (2016), San Clemente’s own Rian Johnson had a lot on his shoulders to keep the series afloat for fans. The result currently in theaters is fascinating, to say the least.

Picking up where The Force Awakens left off, Rey (Daisy Ridley) is still courting Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) to mentor her into becoming a Jedi and connecting with the Force. Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) is trying to recruit Rey to turn her potential

over to the dark side. Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher) is having to deal with Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) ignoring her orders; and Finn (John Boyega) meets Rose (Kelly Marie Tran) who can be a great help to the Rebellion.

What most people were likely expecting was for the second film in this new trilogy to be like Episode V— The Empire Strikes Back (1980): darker and deeper. It is safe to say that Johnson’s new feature is not along the lines of Empire. It is completely its own thing and is the least “Star Wars-y” film made in terms of tone. Some will like the overt comic relief, some might not. Some might not like the character developments. For the first time ever, I’m recommending a Star Wars movie to viewers who aren’t fans. CD

R

enowned musician and surfer Donavon Frankenreiter will be catching a “Big Wave” back to his Orange County stomping grounds for a show at The Coach House on New Year’s Eve. Frankenreiter is no stranger to South Orange County—he grew up surfing in San Clemente, and by the age of 15, he found himself surfing professionally and being sponsored by the likes of Billabong and Hobie Surfboards.

Frankenreiter also developed his love of music at an early age and was inspired to try his hand at the guitar as a teenager.

After forming the band, Sunchild, in the mid-1990s, Frankenreiter released a solo EP in 2002 and went on to eventually produce his first album under Jack Johnson’s label in 2004.

Since then, Frankenreiter has successfully cultivated his laidback, breezy acoustic style, releasing six albums including his latest, The Heart, which marks his second decade as a solo recording artist.

His newest album includes tracks like, “Big Wave,” “Sleeping Good Tonight,”

ON THE MENU

day at Doheny State Beach is not complete without a trip to A’s Burgers for a hearty meal at a great price.

With its bright red and yellow sign popping out at visitors as they drive down Coast Highway, it’s hard to miss the restaurant just one mile away from the Dana Point Harbor.

With a San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point location, A’s Burgers has been a popular burger joint for locals since Angelo Vardakostas opened it in the early 1970s.

Piled high with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, mayonnaise and cheese, the freshly made burgers seem to be a hit for visitors

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“The Way You Catch the Light,” and “When the River Bends,” that explore love, loss, faith, joy, freedom and selfexamination.

“All these songs are as close to me singing from the heart as I can,” Frankenreiter said in a press release. “It’s a complete record; the songs are intertwined. I had to call it The Heart, that was the theme of the record.”

Doors open at 6 p.m. on Dec. 31 for the show, which begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45. The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano. For tickets or more information, call 949.496.8930 or visit www. thecoachhouse.com. CD

HAM AND CHEESE WITH FRIED ZUCCHINI

BY ERIN MCFAUL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

Photo: Courtesy

having spent a long day in the sun.

For customers looking to stray away from the typical order, the ham and cheese sandwich is a warm and gooey alternative.

Served on golden brown sourdough bread and oozing with cheese, the sandwich screams comfort food. Customers can order the fried zucchini on the side for a deep fried, but not greasy, take on zucchini.

Served with a side of creamy ranch, the fried zucchini is presented with a crusty exterior and a soft, warm zucchini inside.

A’s Burgers 34344 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point 949.496.4460

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Dirt Therapy by Marianne Taylor

Garden Inspiration for 2018 A desire to achieve mental health will drive wellness trends over the next year

N

ature is the best remedy and medicine for the soul. It keeps the mind and spirit healthy. The buzzword for today is “wellness”—we seek it from our food, our jobs, our vacations, even in our gardens. We create spaces and places that give us an opportunity to disconnect from the clamor all around us and reconnect with Mother Nature, creating a more relaxed state of mind.

2017 was a year of unpredictability and turmoil, from the climate surges to the 24/7 barrage of media hype and hysterics.

I wanted to find out just what is on the horizon in the world for wellness in 2018. I’m excited to report that self-tracking mental wellness is the number one desire driving the trend of connecting in nature globally.

Mental wellness is finding a balance in one’s life and on many levels using all of our senses and surroundings. The World Health Organization predicts anxiety will DIRT THERAPY soon be the number one

By Marrianne Taylor health issue, outranking obesity. More and more millennials are making mental health a priority, balancing physical and mental health by slowing down, disconnecting with technology, and processing thoughts, instead of rushing from one thing to the next. Being surrounded in greenery indoors or outside creates a harmonious calming effect in the brain, which in turn creates happy endorphins. Nature shifts our brains toward hope and compassion and away from stress and anger.

Below are seven ideas and concepts that will help you re-focus on mental wellness (and environmental wellness) in 2018: 1) Climate Control: The world has been heating up significantly over the last 20 years, and we’re seeing it with the radical destructive weather patterns this past year. Gardening is just as unpredictable due to the ever-changing seasonal condi-

tions. To help reduce the worry and cost, researchers have found hardy, resilient plants that can stand up to any condition.

The ideal garden for our coastal yet arid region is a desert garden comprised of a variety of drought-tolerant cacti and trees. These plants include date palm, Euphorbia, fennel, irises and poppies. For hot and dry conditions, try adding tall trees such as acacia, mesquite and desert willow that provide shade and help reduce heat in urban areas. Cacti and succulents are slow-growing, need little water, and provide structure in the landscape.

2) Plants as Social Networks: Think of your plants as connected communities instead of individuals. When you walk through a forest, you will see that every square inch is a mosaic of interlocking plants, trees, shrubs and ground covers.

When you plant in communities, you manage entire plantings, not an individual plant. The focus becomes one of management and not maintenance, freeing up weekend mowing. This planting approach creates an open, natural garden that is enjoyable in all seasons using grasses, self-seeded flowers and pathways for pondering.

3) Wabi-Sabi, The Art of Imperfect Gardening: This is the dance between nature and nurture in the garden. It is the ancient Japanese practice that appreciates imperfections in life and the ability to age gracefully. This form of gardening allows you to relax and appreciate the humble plant forms and yes, weeds. This is the time to repurpose items around the house, or find treasures from barns or antique stores—fill wheelbarrows with bulbs and alyssum, or use a windmill as a waterfall.

Replace your lawn with sedges, ground covers and perennials for pollinators, birds and bees.

4) Privacy Rooms: Turn off the noise to breathe and relax. We need to find or create a space inside or outside to call our own just so we can practice the art of doing nothing. In this moment of nothingness, it’s important to have green plants all around. The plants clean the air, giving you more oxygen to breathe, which clears your mind. Choose ferns, orchids, palms, philodendrons, herbs, or any leafy plant.

5) Water Features: Make a reflective splash in your garden with a simple water feature. Just the sound of running or dripping water is calming and relaxing.

Slowing water down by capturing rain in barrels and storing it for landscape use allows us to save precious resources during drought conditions.

6) Grow Your Own Protein: Planting a garden or purchasing clean, locallysourced sustainable vegetables is more attainable than it was 20 years ago. The “flexitarian” trend of eating more meatfree meals has been accompanied by a growing interest in grocery stores providing clean produce that is locally sourced

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

Photo: Courtesy of Orange County Archives

FROM THE ARCHIVES A tourist makes some new friends at Mission San Juan Capistrano in this photo from 1965.

Do you have a historical image you’d like to see featured?

Email submissions to ajarrell@picketfencemedia.com, along with a brief caption and photo credit.

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

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

Solution:

or simply growing food in our own backyards. Flexitarians are replacing some meaty meals with protein-rich vegetables.

Veggies rich in protein rich that you can plant now include asparagus, broccoli, kale, peas, millet, spinach and quinoa.

7) Purple Reigns: Purple foods have anthocyanin, a known antioxidant which helps fight off cancer, reduce obesity, protect the heart and has anti-aging benefits.

Purple foods promote mental acuity. Start the year off right by planting or purchasing beets, blueberries, plums, eggplant, purple cauliflower, asparagus, carrots sweet potatoes, acai, black rice, corn and even cereal. Another fun fact: the Pantone 2018 Color of the Year is ultra violet—an eggplant, berry-infused purple. Be sure to use this restful and restorative color in

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your personal surroundings. As a planting guide in your garden and as a food group, purple reigns.

Marianne Taylor, of San Juan Capistrano, is the founder and executive director of Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens, a 501(c) (3) teaching gardening and life skills as a way of empowering, engaging and connecting people. Goin Native focuses on educating local families, special needs adults, seniors, at-risk youth and members of the military. 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

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love after 50 by Tom Blake

December is an Emotional Month for Many

T

he month of December can be an emotional time for people of all ages, particularly for those over 50.

Sometimes the emotions are sad, sometimes happy. With a new year coming, people reflect more than usual about what’s in store for them in the months ahead.

This December, I think of my friend Melinda in Santa Rosa, California; it’s been a tough year for her. In January, her husband Dale passed away unexpectedly.

Then, in October, the home she and Dale purchased in 2016, was destroyed in the Napa-Sonoma Counties wildfires.

And I think of Sue, my Jackson, Michigan, high school classmate, who this year married Phil, another classmate friend of mine, in a storybook scenario, only to have him pass away four months later.

I spoke with her this week. “A day at a time,” she said, “I am going to be okay.”

Then there is Mary Lou, of San Clemente, who in September had double total knee replacement surgery. She said, “Now I am three months out from the surgery and still recovering. I can now walk without pain, and without any aids such as a walker or cane. It is truly a miracle.”

Mary Lou said, “I am on the cusp of a new phase in my life. Who knows? I might meet someone. I miss having a man in my life. Your recent newsletter message of hope, change and new beginnings struck a chord with me because of all the good things that can come out of the pain.”

December can be challenging for relationships. Perhaps, because a new year is looming, people who are unhappy in relationships decide it’s time for a change, hoping to start in a new direction on their own. Often, the partner, spouse, or significant other has no idea these thoughts are brewing within their mate’s head.

I speak from experience. On Christmas Eve of 1993, while I was in Northern California visiting my 83-year-old mom, I did not know that my wife of six years was cleaning out our house, taking furniture and belongings she wanted and moving

out of my life. What a shock. That was an emotionally sad December for me.

Now, this December, 24 years later, I am very grateful that what happened to me led to a writing career and to a wonderful life with my partner Greta.

A similar experience happened to a woman I consider to be a dear friend, although we’ve never met in person. Liping, who hails from China, contacted me in 2007 when her husband had left her. Her December that year was an emotional downer.

We’ve kept in touch, on and off, since. This week, I asked her for an update.

Liping wrote, “When I read your recent newsletON LIFE AND ter, I cried; it brought LOVE AFTER 50 back memories of 2007

By Tom Blake when my ex went back to China and left me and my teenage son in the USA without any clue or warning, and then a difficult divorce followed.

“In 2013, I met David via Craigslist. We have been married four years.

“So, this December, I am so glad and lucky to have found him. I am very happy and peaceful.”

For people going through an emotional December that might be on the sad side of the fence, remember that out of adversity comes opportunity and the chance for a better life. I found it. Liping found it. And, Melinda, Sue and Mary Lou will find it.

And you will, too.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites at www.findingloveafter50.com. To receive Tom’s weekly newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50. com. Email: 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

SJC LIVING

Nonprofits Bring the Holiday Cheer Rotarians, Boys & Girls Club hold annual holiday events for hundreds of kids

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

n Dec. 16, members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley gathered at the San Juan Capistrano club branch to participate in the organization’s annual Operation Holiday Homework. Individual volunteers, as well as organizations like the National Charity League, made the event possible by helping each child select and wrap gifts for their families.

Since 2003, Operation Holiday Homework has encouraged the clubs’ students to put education first. Students participate in a homework “power hour” before play time Monday through Thursday, and receive points for staying on task. Two weeks prior to Operation Holiday Homework, their points are tallied up to determine the number of entries they receive for the holiday store to “shop” for gifts.

While Operation Holiday Homework was underway across the street, Santa and Mrs. Claus greeted hundreds of local kids on the same morning at the San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club’s annual Santa’s Visit at Marco Forster Middle School.

The holiday event is in its 28th year and included student volunteers from Capistrano Valley Christian Schools, San Juan Hills High School and Marco Forster Middle School. The student volunteers wrapped hundreds of gifts for the kids prior to the event, in addition to running an array of arts and crafts booths throughout the morning. CD

Abel Velasco, 7, of Dana Point, shows off the gifts he picked out for his family during Operation Holiday Homework, including a new bicycle for his 5-year-old brother.

Volunteer Laura Deway, of the National Association of Women Business Owners, helped Velasco wrap his gifts. Photo: Allison Jarrell

James Littlejohn, executive director of the Boys & Girls Seven-year-old Levi Erikson picked out a ring for his mother during Operation Holiday Homework. Photo: Clubs of Capistrano Valley, with club member Amber Allison Jarrell Appleton, 13, of San Clemente. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Hundreds of children and their parents attended the San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club’s annual Santa’s Visit at Marco Forster Middle School. Photo: Eric Heinz

Keira Pravetton, 7, of Dana Point, picked out a coffee pot for her dad and a crock pot for her mom during Operation Holiday Homework. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Mayor Sergio Farias poses for a photo with Santa Claus, played by local volunteer Alan Weddle, and Mrs. Claus, played by Martha Orozco. Photo: Eric Heinz

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com FOR SALE CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too!

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OTHER STUFF ROOMATE WANTED Roomate Wanted to Share Luxury Condo on the bluffs above the beach in San Clemente.

Furnished Master Bedroom Suite, Private Bath and Patio. Laundry, parking, separate entrance. $850 per month includes utilities No pets, parties or smoking.

SheilaPatterson.esq@cox.net BAN SLEEPING, SITTING, WAITING, BEGGING, PARKING, DRUGS USE IN DANA POINT PUBLIC SPACES Dana Point City Council: Ban sleeping, sitting, begging and drugs on streets, sidewalks, parks and public places.” and wanted to see if you could help by adding your name.

We need more support. Link: http://chn.ge/2B0Cf1Y Thanks! Jason THE SCHENKENBERGER’S NEED SOME HELP Steve Shenkenberger, husband and father of five young boys, was riding his mountain bike on Super Bowl Sunday when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver in Laguna Niguel. The family is need of donations for ongoing medical expenses and childcare. Please consider donating at www.gofundme.com/ the-schenkenbergers-medical-bills.

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949.388.7700 ext. 104 The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

Page 25

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

San Juan Capistrano Sports Year in Review

Lewis, a shortstop, was also named Gatorade’s Player of the Year in California and finished his brilliant high school career as a three-time Trinity League player of the year.

Skvarna Wins Collegiate Longboard Title San Juan’s Kevin Skvarna, competing for Saddleback College, won the National Scholastic Surfing Association’s Interscholastic National Championship’s longboard title at Salt Creek.

JULY

COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

T

he 2017 calendar year was filled with memorable San Juan Capistrano sports moments, from the thrills of high school sports to locals shining on the national stage, it all made for a memorable year.

Here is a look back at some of the defining San Juan Capistrano sports moments of 2017.

949 Volleyball Cleans Up at Nationals Local program 949 Volleyball Club won four medals at the USA Volleyball Junior National Championship tournament.

Two of the program’s teams won gold medals.

AUGUST West Coast FC Qualifies for Nationals The West Coast Futbol Club sent three youth club soccer teams to the U.S. Youth Soccer National Championships in Frisco, Texas following outstanding performances at the Far West Regional qualifying tournament.

JANUARY SJC Hoops Takes Center Stage The quality of high school basketball on display in town during the month of January was something special. The JSerra boys team, in coach Zach Brogdon’s inaugural season, was making a charge up the Trinity League standings and Saddleback Valley Christian’s Trey Smith was leading the county in scoring, averaging 28 points per game.

SEPTEMBER Lions Play First-Ever Home Football Game For the first time in school history, the JSerra football team got to play under its own lights and in its own stadium on campus. Renovations at Saddleback College prompted the Lions to go before City Council to seek approval to play at home.

JSerra won its first-ever “home” game, 4827, over Alemany.

FEBRUARY Athletes Sign National Letters of Intent Dozens of student-athletes representing different high schools throughout town signed their National Letter of Intent during signing day ceremonies on campus, indicating their college of choice. San Juan Hills High School led the way with 15 student-athletes signing to play at the collegiate level.

Hendricks Honored by Alma Mater After helping pitch the Chicago Cubs to its first World Series title in 108 years, San Juan native Kyle Hendricks was honored by his alma mater, Capistrano Valley High School, during a basketball game on campus. Hendricks, who won the ERA title and started Game 7 of the Series, was given the school’s Spirit of the Cougar award.

MARCH

OCTOBER

From top: San Juan native and Chicago Cubs pitcher Kyler Hendricks was honored by Capo Valley High School after winning the World Series. Photo: Steve Breazeale. The JSerra girls soccer team won CIF-SS Division 1 and CIF SoCal Regional titles in 2017. Photo: Courtesy. JSerra grad Royce Lewis was taken No.1 overall by the Minnesota Twins in the 2017 MLB Draft. Photo: Courtesy.

NOVEMBER Golfers Win South County Cup Playing on home soil, members of the San Juan Hills Golf Club’s men’s club won the South County Cup tournament. The event features men’s club teams from San Clemente and San Juan playing a two-day tournament for local bragging rights.

APRIL

Lions Soccer Rules the Southland The JSerra girls soccer team finished the season as the top program in Southern California. The Lions captured the Trinity League title, the CIF-SS Division 1 Championship and the CIF SoCal Regional title, compiling an outstanding 23-1-3 overall record.

Childress Named Coach at CVCS Chris Childress was named head coach of the Capistrano Valley Christian boys basketball team, becoming the third coach in four years for the Eagles.

Stallions Surf Team Shines at State The San Juan Hills High School girls surf team had a successful run at the Scholastic Surf Series State Championships in Oceanside. The program’s shortboard team won the state title and the longboard team finished second.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 22, 2017–January 11, 2018

MAY Rhyan Throws His Way to League Title San Juan Hills High School sophomore Sean Rhyan won the Sea View League shotput title and advanced to the CIF-SS Division 2 Track and Field Prelims. Rhyan, who is a standout offensive lineman on the football team, was the first Stallion thrower to win a league title since 2008.

JUNE Lewis Picked No. 1 Overall in MLB Draft JSerra Catholic phenom Royce Lewis was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Minnesota Twins in the 2017 MLB Draft.

Page 26

Pettis Breaks NCAA Punt Return Record Former JSerra Catholic standout football player Dante Pettis, now with the University of Washington, set an NCAA career record by returning his ninth punt for a touchdown against Oregon on Nov. 4.

DECEMBER Lions Soccer Ranked No. 1 in Nation The JSerra girls soccer team debuted as the No. 1 team in the nation on www. topdrawersoccer.com’s winter FAB 50 rankings. The Lions began their season with a perfect 5-0 start. www.thecapistranodispatch.com