July 14, 2017

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

High School Students Start Free Lacrosse Camp for SJC Youth PAGE 18 FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

JULY 14-27, 2017 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 13

Riding Park Under Fire OC Coastkeeper files federal suit against city, Blenheim Facility Management over alleged creek pollution E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Coastkeeper filed an amended lawsuit on July 5 in U.S. District Court over alleged Clean Water Act violations at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park. Photo: Allison Jarrell

School District, Teachers Union Reach Impasse in Contract Negotiations EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

Playhouse Presents Outdoor Rendition of ‘Robin Hood’ GETTING OUT/PAGE 10

Krav Maga Studio Offers Free Self-Defense Seminars for Women SJC LIVING/PAGE 13

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

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

ues to fact-finding, where a panel reviews the proposals and ultimately issues nonbinding recommendations.

If the fact-finding process does not result in an agreement, CUSD would be able to impose its last, best and final offer, and CUEA teachers would maintain the right to strike.

“We will continue to negotiate in good faith with CUEA and will keep you informed as we go through the process of impasse,” district officials said.

For more information on the negotiations, visit www.capousd.org and www. cuea.org. —AJ

Five things San Juan should know this week Two Stepping Under the Stars Returns to RMV Riding Park July 29 THE LATEST: The 15th annual Two Stepping Under the Stars, presented by the San Juan Equestrian Coalition and Blenheim Facility Management, is set to take place at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park on Saturday, July 29, from 5-10 p.m.

Admission is free to the family-friendly event, which features dining and dancing under the Oak trees of the riding park, located at the corner of Avenida La Pata and Ortega Highway.

For those who may not know how to two-step, the evening begins at 5 p.m. with free line dancing lessons from The Kelly Boyz Band. Dinner and dancing kick off at 6 p.m. The country dance event also includes food and beverages for purchase from local restaurants, a “fun zone” for kids with games and face painting, a silent auction and a raffle.

WHAT’S NEXT: The event doesn’t just celebrate the town’s rich equestrian heritage—it supports its future. All proceeds go directly back into the San Juan Capistrano equestrian community through various charitable projects.

Organizers said money raised at previous two stepping events has gone to helping animals during natural disasters, mapping the San Juan’s trail system, digitizing the city’s trail maps, and holding a summer lecture series for the past 13 years.

For more information on Two Stepping Under the Stars or the equestrian coalition, visit www.sjcec.org. —Allison Jarrell

School District, Teachers Union Reach Impasse in Contract Negotiations THE LATEST: Contract negotiations between the Capistrano Unified School District and the Capistrano Unified Education Association have officially stalled, according to a Sunday, June 30, press release from the district.

CUSD officials reported that after 16 bargaining sessions with CUEA, both parties were unable to reach an agreement The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

Capo Unified Takes Strong Stance against Toll Road Options

The Kelly Boyz Band will perform and teach free line dancing lessons at the 15th annual Two Stepping Under the Stars on Saturday, July 29. Photo: File

on Saturday, June 29. 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.”

In a notice online regarding the declared impasse, teachers union officials describe the parties as “far apart economically.”

“Their health and welfare offer would only make the Kaiser HMO plan a no co-premium to our members for 2017,” union officials said of CUSD’s offer. “Their proposed salary increase would likely be negated by an increase to members’ copremiums to health and welfare in 2018.”

Union officials also noted that their negotiating team presented a counterproposal based on the district’s previous offer made on Tuesday, May 23.

“The offer included creative health and welfare suggestions, as well as an effort to minimize costs on the salary and longevity increases,” officials wrote. “The district continues to ignore requests on significant portions of our salary schedule. CUEA feels that these increases to both salary and longevity are necessary in order to keep our salaries competitive.”

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 highest-paying school district on average in 2012-13, but declined over the years to the 20th spot in 2016-17. The data also shows that, on average, CUSD’s teachers make roughly $4,700 less than the average

teacher in Orange County.

“Over the last several years, CUEA salaries have diminished in priority in the CUSD budget,” union officials wrote.

“In 2011-12, CUEA salaries were 47.53 percent of all expenditures. This year, CUEA salaries are 41.69 percent of all expenditures.”

In the school district’s press release, CUSD’s offer was defended with statements about the “uncertainties of future state funding,” and the “very broken Local Control Funding Formula that was created in Sacramento.”

“This formula continues to severely underfund districts such as ours and does not do anything to increase funding in the future,” the press release states. “To ensure we are protecting our district and our taxpayers, we insist on building and maintaining a responsible budget that finds a balance between recognizing the wonderful work of our teachers while also acknowledging the challenges of our facilities’ needs.”

On their website, union officials noted that CUSD “received an additional $12 million in 2016-17 in unrestricted (Local Control Funding Formula) funds and should be able to afford a fair ongoing increase to salary and health benefits.”

WHAT’S NEXT: CUSD and CUEA agreed to jointly file for impasse certification with the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB), according to the district’s release. A mediator will likely be assigned to help resolve the negotiations, which could take up to several months.

If the mediator and parties aren’t able to reach an agreement, the process contin-

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THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees voted 6-1 on Wednesday, June 28, to adopt a resolution that opposes any toll road extension alignment that would adversely affect district school sites and students.

Board President Martha McNicholas, who was not in attendance but participated over the phone, was the sole no vote.

The item, which was brought before the board by Trustee Patricia Holloway, of San Clemente, drew dozens of community members to the meeting. San Clemente Mayor Kathy Ward was one of the public speakers who spoke in support of the board’s resolution.

“I applaud you. Just as we have to protect our citizens, you also have to also protect your students,” Ward said.

The majority of the trustees agreed with the public’s concerns, and a couple board members delivered ardent comments on the subject.

“San Clemente is home of the Tritons, and I’ll be darned if we’re going to be home of the toll road,” Holloway said.

Trustee Jim Reardon, who represents schools in San Juan and Rancho Mission Viejo, said an important part of the resolution is the request for the county and OCTA to reevaluate the need for toll roads in South Orange County. Reardon went on to call the Transportation Corridor Agencies a “bully” and a “zombie.”

“They’ve played this game in South County for years and years, and they’re back,” Reardon said. “When TCA signed that agreement with the environmental groups, it put itself out of business. The only viable path for this road was through wild areas.”

WHAT’S NEXT: “Because the toll road is a county approved project, it does not involve any district approvals, easements, or agreements,” CUSD officials said in a statement. “Before TCA can construct (Cont. on page 4) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) the ultimate toll expressway extension to Interstate 5, it will be required to identify, and environmentally review, a new alignment for such a project. The district will continue to monitor and review such proposals, and can address any concerns as presented.” —AJ

‘Heroes Car Wash’ to Honor Local Air Controller, Marines Who Died in Plane Crash THE LATEST: The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group is changing up their annual car wash this year by paying special tribute to a local air controller and group of Marines who lost their lives in a tragic plane crash earlier this week.

Terry Rifkin, president of the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, said the organization will be honoring Sean Elliott, a forward air controller for the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, who was killed in the Monday, July 10, Marine Corps cargo plane crash in Mississippi.

“We’re calling it the American Heroes Car Wash,” Rifkin said. “This car wash will honor our hometown hero and all of the Marines who died in the crash, as well as the families that love them.”

Elliott’s parents, Cindy and John Elliott, reside in San Juan Capistrano and are volunteers of the organization, Rifkin said.

Those who attend will have an opportunity to learn about the community and the “Fighting Fifth” Marines. Local police and firefighters will also have their equipment on display.

The Dana Hills High School Football team and Marines will dry the vehicles.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Wounded Warriors, Marines, Sailors and families of the 5th Marine Regiment.

WHAT’S NEXT: The event will run from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, July 22, at Doheny Village Hand Car Wash, located at 34241 Doheny Park Road in Capistrano Beach.

For more information, visit www.danapoint5thmarines.com.

—Kristina Pritchett

South Orange County Wastewater Authority to be Audited by Independent Firm THE LATEST: Per a request by state Sen. Patricia Bates and Assemblyman Bill Brough, both of whom represent San Juan Capistrano, an independent audit of the financial procedures of the South Orange County Wastewater Authority (SOCWA) will be conducted.

A legislative bipartisan committee approved the request on Wednesday, June 28.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

The request comes after the Moulton Niguel Water District, a participant of SOCWA, accused the district of having $1 million in unaccounted funds, a lack of transparency and other accusations, according to a press release from Moulton Niguel.

But officials with SOCWA said Moulton Niguel has failed to make payments of about $900,000 for repairs on a water treatment facility in Laguna Beach, the Coastal Treatment Plant.

“They haven’t paid their bills dating back more than one year,” said Steve Greyshock, a spokesperson for SOCWA. “Those members have been asking for a long time. After about a year, member agencies were forced to ask them to stop being delinquent. There are projects that are being delayed because there’s missing money. It’s vitally important that projects continue.”

Greyshock said the Moulton Niguel district no longer requires the services of the plant and therefore did not want to pay for the repairs.

“They’re basically asking to dissolve their contract and exit their agreement, and that’s fine, but other agencies are asking them to pay their bills,” Greyshock said.

The SOCWA serves about 600,000 people in South Orange County, which includes San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano. Moulton Niguel currently owns about 30 percent equity of the treatment plant.

WHAT’S NEXT: Both parties appear to be eager to see the results of the audit.

Greyshock said SOCWA welcomes it.

A statement from Moulton Niguel also shows support of the financial review.

“While the audit was met with ardent opposition by SOCWA, we are very pleased to see that the audit is moving forward,” said Joone Lopez, General Manager of the Moulton Niguel Water District. “We appreciate the tremendous support from Senator Bates, Assemblyman Brough and all of the JLAC members in advancing public transparency, fiscal accountability and effective governance.”

According to the press release from Moulton Niguel, the audit is expected to take about six months.

FIND OUT MORE: Links to the audit and additional information will be provided in this article online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —Eric Heinz

Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about?

••• Send your suggestions to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

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EYE ON SJC

Community NEWS BITES Meetings Local Equestrian Nonprofit COMPILED BY STAFF

MONDAY, JULY 17

Parks, Recreation, Youth, Senior Services, Trails and Equestrian Commission Meeting 5:30 p.m. The city’s Parks, Recreation, Youth, Senior Services, Trails and Equestrian Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

TUESDAY, JULY 18

Utilities Commission Meeting

8 a.m. The city’s Utilities Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

Downtown Farmers Market 3-7 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 Summer Nites

6-8 p.m. The city’s annual summer concert series continues with a performance by the U2 Experience. The event also includes dancing, food, beer and wine, a local business expo and free activities for kids. Free to attend. Historic Town Center Park, 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5911, www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, JULY 21

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.

TUESDAY, JULY 25

Cultural Heritage Commission Meeting

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

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting

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

FRIDAY, JULY 28

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

Receives $5,000 Donation from C.A.R.E.

Leaders in the equestrian community recently came together to support Otra Mas, a volunteer-based retirement, rehabilitative and renewal equine therapy nonprofit based in San Juan Capistrano.

C.A.R.E. (Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort) donated $5,000 to Otra Mas to support the rehabilitation of horses.

Headquartered at Ortega Equestrian Center (OEC) in San Juan, Otra Mas provides quality management for retired, abused and neglected horses. Its mission is to ensure essential care of horses through intervention, education and outreach. OEC is a privately owned full-service boarding facility that is licensed and board certified.

“The work of Otra Mas is supported primarily by donations of individuals and corporations,” a press release from the center states. “It is through the generous hearts and hands of people donating to the organization that horses in the program thrive and have a purposeful life.”

Otra Mas’ programs include equine psychotherapy, riding lessons and providing emotional assistance and equine therapy to servicemen and women who are on active duty, as well as recovering soldiers and their families during post-deployment.

Otra Mas also provides immediate shelter and aid for horses during emergencies and natural disasters.

Anyone interested in volunteering or donating to Otra Mas can call Kathy Holman at 949.661.3130. Otra Mas is located at 27252 Calle Arroyo.

7-year-old San Juan Entrepreneur ‘Hired’

by Recycling Company in Riverside On Tuesday, June 20, 7-year-old Ryan Hickman, of San Juan Capistrano, was “hired” as an honorary employee by CarbonLITE, a recycling company with a plant in Riverside that processes two billion plastic bottles annually.

Hickman—who runs his own company, Ryan’s Recycling, from his family’s home in San Juan—was given his own CarbonLITE employee badge, shirt and hardhat, and received a tour of the 220,000-squarefoot facility, which is the nation’s largest manufacturer of post-consumer food-grade PET resin.

Since starting his own recycling company, Hickman has recycled more than 234,000 cans and bottles, and has donated nearly $4,800 from t-shirt sales to the Pacific Marine Mammal Center.

C.A.R.E. (Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort) donated $5,000 to Otra Mas to support the rehabilitation of horses. Photo: Courtesy of Otra Mas

“Ryan is an exceptional young man committed to making a difference in protecting our planet—and who knows, maybe he will be the CEO of CarbonLITE one day,” CarbonLITE Chairman and CEO Leon Farahnik said.

For more information on CarbonLITE, visit www.carbonliterecycling.com/process. To learn more about Ryan’s Recycling, visit www.ryansrecycling.com.

San Juan Chamber Teams Up with Trio Rewards The San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce recently announced a new partnership with Trio Rewards, a company that aims to give local business owners a competitive advantage over big-box stores.

Using Trio’s mobile app, customers in San Juan can now earn rewards and save money on purchases by shopping at local businesses that are Chamber members.

“The app makes it easy for people to share their favorite places, discover where their friends go and score local deals from the businesses that they care about most,” a Trio press release stated. “Local businesses enroll their customers, allowing them to earn rewards on every purchase.

When these customers share the app with their friends, they also collect rewards on their shopping as well. This creates fiercely loyal customer traffic to each of the participating businesses.”

Those interested in signing up for Trio can do so directly from the chamber’s website: www.sanjuanchamber.com. For more information about Trio Rewards, visit www.triorewards.com.

Tickets on Sale for The Vintage Food & Wine Festival The Vintage—the San Juan Chamber of Commerce’s annual food and wine festival—is slated to take place 6-10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7 at Mission San Juan Capistrano. The event, now in its 21st year, commemorates the migration of the swallows while raising funds for the Chamber and showcasing local restaurants, bakeries, wineries and breweries.

In addition to food and wine tasting, the evening includes dancing and live music

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performed by Family Style. Dozens of local dining establishments will offer guests a taste of their cuisine, while local wineries, breweries and spirit makers will offer samples of their drinks.

Early bird tickets (through Aug. 31) are $85 per person or $950 for a reserved table of 10. On Sept. 1, pricing increases to $95 a ticket or $1,150 for a table of 10. Tickets are good for all you can eat and taste all night, and should be reserved early as the event sells out each year.

All table reservations must be made over the phone by calling 949.493.4700 or in person at the chamber, located at 31421 La Matanza Street. Individual tickets can be purchased in person, by phone or online at www.vintagesjc.com.

Business Owners Team Up for Video Promoting “Depot District” On Sunday, April 30, a music video was filmed in the streets of downtown San Juan Capistrano in an effort to promote the businesses of the city’s “depot district.”

Beth Carney, owner of Conservatory at Curiosity, first had the idea for the video and saw her vision become a reality as 50 young dancers from PAVE School of the Arts in Aliso Viejo twirled in bright colors alongside nine businesses surrounding San Juan’s historic train station. Choreography for the shoot was done by Jordan Blais Krinke, and editing for the video was done by Eric Bergstrom of bergstromedia. com. Mark Schwartz, who can often be spotted acting in shows at the Camino Real Playhouse, also made a few appearances.

“The reception has been just amazing,” Carney said. “The community has really embraced it.”

The businesses featured include: Trevor’s at the Tracks, Rancho Capistrano Winery, Five Vines Wine Bar, The Vintage Steakhouse, Guapas Tapas & Wine Bar, 3:16 Bakery Shop, Hennessey’s Tavern, Regency Theatre, and Conservatory at Curiosity.

To view the video, visit www.youtube. com/watch?v=eNMgd4BYd5o or search “Depot District Dance Video” on YouTube.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Riding Park under Fire OC Coastkeeper files federal suit against city and Blenheim Facility Management over alleged creek pollution from riding park

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

range County Coastkeeper announced last week that the advocacy group had filed an amended lawsuit in U.S. District Court against the city of San Juan Capistrano and Blenheim Facillity Management over alleged Clean Water Act violations at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park—a 40-acre, city-owned equestrian and sports facility.

Currently, the city is working on forging a long-term contract with operator Blenheim Facility Management, while also working with state regulators like the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board and California Fish & Wildlife 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 calls those improvements “piecemeal” and short-term solutions.

First Came Complaints from Commissioners The riding park is no stranger to complaints. Last July, similar concerns from city commissioners were filed and began showing up as agenda items at Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services commission meetings. The concerns, voiced by two former city Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services commissioners, Kim McCarthy and Eva Crabbs, revolved around perceived violations at the riding park such as discharge of pollution into the creek.

•(For more background on these initial complaints, check out the online version of this story at www.thecapistranodispatch. com.)

When The Dispatch asked for comment from then-commissioner Crabbs about the riding park back in April, she pointed to an “accessibility issue” with the Arizona Crossing that washed out this past winter.

(The Arizona Crossing is not under Blenheim’s jurisdiction and is separate from the riding park.) “…I have suggested a bridge be built

The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

The Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park is home to equestrian events and shows hosted by Blenheim EquiSports throughout the year. Photo: Allison Jarrell

instead as it would be a permanent fix to the problem of future washouts,” Crabbs wrote in an email. “At my last PRSYS Commission meeting, I gave a rather detailed report on a proposal for a bridge for the next commission to consider and evaluate.”

When asked what Crabbs’ response was to residents who have accused her of trying to shut down the riding park, she had this to say: “There was never an intent or desire to push the riding park out of SJC,” Crabbs wrote. “Rather there were efforts to alert the City Council, staff, fellow commissioners, and the public, of concerns.”

While Crabbs and McCarthy didn’t return an email from The Dispatchlast week seeking comment on the Coastkeeper suit, McCarthy is quoted in her own publication, Community Common Sense, as saying, “If the City Manager had just done his job and taken care of the violations rather than attempting to sweep them under the rug, this [lawsuit] could have been avoided.”

That same article also states that the “allegations by the Coastkeepers vindicate city commissioners who filed complaints with the city about on-going code violations at the Riding Park and damage to San Juan Creek.”

Alleged Pollution of San Juan Creek Colin Kelly, senior staff attorney at OC Coastkeeper, said the organization received numerous public complaints about improper discharge last year from

community members and local agencies.

“The allegations were serious enough for us to conduct our own investigation,” Kelly said. “We don’t take complaints and run with them; we have to verify that allegations are accurate and truthful.”

Coastkeeper alleges that the riding park is discharging pollution into the San Juan Creek (greywater, sewage and trash), has not received a dredge and fill permit for activities in the creek and onsite wetlands, and is threatening local water quality by failing to properly regulate discharges under its stormwater permit.

After members of Coastkeeper conducted their own investigations on the riding park grounds, the organization alerted the city and Blenheim of its concerns, but was not satisfied with what the group calls “putting a Band-Aid” on the “park’s pollution problem.”

One example Coastkeeper points to is the wash racks on site, and the 3,000-gallon holding tanks that the racks drain to.

Kelly says Coastkeeper has documented evidence that those tanks are still discharging to the creek, and those pollutants are negatively impacting the health of Doheny State Beach.

“We’re not saying that this is the sole cause of pollution (at Doheny),” Kelly said.

“But it contributes to the problem.”

On March 31, Coastkeeper sent a letter titled, “Notice of Violations and Intent to File Suit under Federal Water Pollution Control Act” to the city, which noted that “each separate violation of the Clean Water

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Act subjects the violator of a penalty of up to $37,500 per day per violation for all Clean Water Act violations after Jan. 12, 2009 and $51,570 per day per violation for all violations that occurred after Nov. 2, 2015.”

Coastkeeper filed its initial Clean Water Act complaint on June 2 against Blenheim and the city, which alleged 1,825 violations. The amended complaint filed on July 5, however, alleges that the city and Blenheim are “responsible for more than 9,130 individual violations of the Clean Water Act over 1,826 days.” Kelly said the change in number accounts for a five-year statute of limitations and multiple violations accumulating per day.

Of primary concern, Kelly said, is Coastkeeper’s claim that the city and Blenheim have failed to obtain permit coverage for the operation of a large or medium Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation, or CAFO. An animal feeding operation of 500 or more horses at the facility is considered “large.”

“Once an AFO is defined as a CAFO, the (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) NPDES requirements for CAFOs apply to all animals in confinement at the operation and all manure, litter, and process wastewater generated by those animals or the production of those animals,” the complaint states.

“The fact that it’s a CAFO is driving the whole case,” Kelly said. “If you’re found to be a CAFO, there are additional requirements. You have to obtain a permit under www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC ments. You have to obtain a permit under the Clean Water Act. “We are not anti-horse—we don’t have anything against the activities going on at this site,” Kelly said, adding that, “people who ride horses are not more important than people who ride surfboards, and there needs to be a balance there.”

City and Blenheim Respond to Coastkeeper Allegations City leaders have been steadfast in defending the city’s and Blenheim’s ongoing work to address concerns at the riding park, pointing to correspondence with state regulators like the San Diego Regional Water Quality Board that began long before Coastkeeper came on the scene.

After the amended suit was filed, City Manager Ben Siegel released the following statement: “The city continues to devote significant staff, legal and financial resources to investigate anonymous complaints and allegations by Coastkeeper of violations at the Riding Park and other public and private equestrian facilities in San Juan Capistrano. In fact, efforts to address water quality concerns at the Riding Park were underway long before Coastkeeper became involved. City staff, in partnership with Blenheim Facilities Management— which operates the Riding Park—has been engaged in productive conversations with regulatory agencies over the past year to address issues such as erosion and sloughing along the creek banks, winter storm damage to the Arizona crossing, and long-term water quality improvements to the property such as the installation of a permanent sewer system that would connect to the wash racks. Rather than participate in these collaborative efforts, Coastkeeper has opted to pursue legal action against the city, without warning or opportunity to work in partnership with our equestrian community. This rush to involve attorneys based on exaggerated claims is disappointing and will result in the expenditure of taxpayer funds that could be better committed to protecting the local watershed and our city’s natural open spaces. Nevertheless, the city remains committed to environmental stewardship and will continue to take the steps necessary to comply with all local, state, and federal regulations.”

When it comes to the park’s wash racks, City Planner Charlie View said the system that had previously been in place—where water from the wash racks was pumped to a containment barrel, filtered and discharged to the creek—was the approved best management practice back in 2006.

But last year, the city began receiving complaints about the wash racks, and the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board said the method they were using was no longer acceptable.

“Rather than fight it, we said OK, what’s a better method today?” View said. “BFM hired Scott Environmental Consultants to develop a plan. The better plan was no The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

City staff and environmental consultants say this area is essentially a dry stream bed for 99.9 percent of the year. Coastkeeper claims that small bits of rubber footing from the practice arena have entered the stream bed during rain events, but Melissa Brandes, Vice President of Marketing for Blenheim, says the arenas are sealed during rainy days in order to not lose the expensive footing material. Photo: Allison Jarrell

A 3,000-gallon holding tank for wash rack water is seen on the left, and sandbags and fencing along the creek can be seen on the right. Coastkeeper claims the tanks are discharging to the creek, while city officials and Blenheim Management say that’s not the case—the water is treated, pumped into water trucks and used to control dust in the parking lot. Photo: Allison Jarrell

longer discharge to the creek. We needed to capture the water in a way that didn’t create a discharge to the creek.”

BFM’s proposed interim solution was having wash rack water draining into the inlets and moving into a central collection point before being pumped into holding tanks. That water is then treated and fed to water trucks that use it for dust control on parking lots toward the front of the property (away from the creek).

“There’s no sewer system right now, so everything is contained and has to be pumped,” View said. “The most recent complaint is that water hits the boards of wash racks and slightly splashes. Water will splash off the animal, but they’re saying that’s a discharge.”

Fencing and sandbags currently line the area along the creek, and then there’s a swath of ground between the barrier and the tanks.

“The occasional splash hit the ground and soaked in, and they’re calling that a discharge from the wash racks,” View said. “The water drains to the ground—it doesn’t get to the creek. “(BFM) is collecting wash rack water, treating it with chlorine per an acceptable health standard, and using it for a legitimate purpose far away from the creek,” View said.

On the matter of the CAFO permit, View said BFM and the city are already working with the San Diego Regional Wa-

ter Quality Control Board on obtaining the appropriate permit for the property. View said that as soon as the water board made the city aware that the CAFO may apply, the city and BFM did their due diligence and submitted an application for a waiver.

They have another tour set up with the state regulators in the coming weeks.

“We understand that it’s important to comply with all applicable water standards,” View said. “We will comply with whatever is appropriate.”

City Council Members Respond to Complaints City Councilman Derek Reeve has posted numerous updates on his public Facebook page, notifying those who follow his posts of each complaint that rolls in regarding the riding park or other equestrian facilities.

For months, Reeve has been an outspoken critic of the “anonymous complaints,” and wrote the following post on June 25: “The city has been notified of yet another anonymous complaint filed regarding water quality concerns at an equestrian facility located in San Juan Capistrano. The complaint has been filed against Ortega Equestrian Center. This is the third equestrian facility that is the subject of an anonymous water quality complaint in recent months. The city is actively working with the Riding Park, Tar Farms Stables and now Ortega Equestrian Page 7

Center to address these complaints. The city as always continues to work with the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board to address these concerns as well. Coordinating with our equestrian operators and working with the regulatory agencies continues to draw significant taxpayer resources from other critical assignments and contributes to escalating legal expenses.

“Even if it is proven these anonymous complaints lack merit, they nevertheless contribute to an environment that is hostile to these businesses because it becomes exceedingly cost prohibitive to operate an equestrian center. Sycamore Trails, and yes, the Shea Center, are likewise at risk. To the people who contributed and/or celebrate these complaints, they are sadly celebrating the possible death of equestrian tradition in San Juan Capistrano.”

Back in April, Mayor Kerry Ferguson had the following to say regarding the commissioners’ riding park complaints: “Our Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park at San Juan Capistrano is a priceless asset that our community residents pledged nearly $30,000,000 to purchase,” Ferguson wrote. “Each of them pays for it each year as a part of their property tax assessment. It is the home of a world renowned riding program as well as a park facility for sports and other activities for our residents.

“I am thankful to the Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commissioners Kim McCarthy and Eva Crabbs for their due diligence in bringing the various issues that needed to be addressed to the attention of the City. As one who has personally observed a number of the problem areas myself, I can personally attest to their validity, and I am glad for all the corrections that have been made to date. It is my sincere hope that as we continue to enjoy this very special open space and the San Juan Creek that runs through it that we treat it with the care that it deserves in every way.”

Earlier this week, Ferguson sent another statement when asked for her thoughts on the amended complaint filed

by Coastkeeper: “As the city’s liaison to the equestrian community, I care deeply about the health of our riders, horses and equestrian businesses,” Ferguson wrote. “I also have great admiration, as I have said on numerous occasions, for the Blenheim Equisports program. They are all best served by environmentally sound practices, and we all need to be vigilant to make sure they are maintained. The health of our San Juan Creek is of concern to all of our residents, and keeping it in good condition is imperative for now and for future generations.”

To view the complete version of this story (including information on the city’s Arizona Crossing, Doheny Beach pollution, and new complaints against other equestrian facilities), visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. DP www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor IN RESPONSE TO THE MAYOR’S COMMENTS —Steve Behmerwohld, San Juan Capistrano I feel that I need to respond to the personal attack from Mayor Kerry Ferguson, “Online Petition Surfaces Calling for Removal of Mayor Kerry Ferguson,” in the last issue of The Dispatch.

In the first line of her full response (which was posted in the online version of the story), she lashes out at what she refers to as “a group of schoolyard bullies, many of whom hang out at coffee chat.”

Coffee Chat is a group of local people who meet at Hennessey’s Tavern every Friday morning to discuss what’s going on in San Juan and exchange ideas. The group welcomes any resident who wants to exercise their First Amendment rights and come and speak and learn about issues and current events in our town. I am a regular co-host. Kerry has been invited and has refused to attend on several occasions,

although sitting (and past) Council people have attended and co-hosted for decades.

Although Kerry doesn’t call me out by name, like she did with Ted Rosenfeldt and Sam Allevato, she does refer to “one of the most constant bullies who rails at council and commissioners.” I do speak regularly at Council meetings, which is my First Amendment right. I very rarely raise my voice and never “rail.” She seems to forget about the years that her friends Kim McCarthy and Clint Worthington yelled at Councilman Allevato and others.

Ferguson also wrote: “He was forced to resign from ASAP (police services volunteer group) after stealing signs from residents advocating against SDGE’s substation expansion. Again, he sought to crush their right of free speech.”

We did remove signs (which was part of our volunteer job with the sheriff’s department). I did resign from A.S.A.P., but I certainly wasn’t forced to. We didn’t “steal” anything. There was a several-month-long OCSD investigation, (which I thought was a total waste of time and money, but was insisted on by one of the anti-SDG&E zealots, who was also instrumental in getting Kerry elected). I was interviewed

by OCSD investigators on three separate

occasions and was completely exonerated.

Kerry’s supporters wanted our then-city manager and then-chief of police services to be fired. I resigned because I was tired of seeing them unjustly harassed.

What brought on Kerry’s tirade was a simple question from Allison Jarrell at The Dispatch: “In general, what is your response to Ted Rosenfeldt’s petition to unseat you as mayor?”

There are 43 comments online—every one supporting the petition. And there are 133 signatures in support of this statement: “We, the undersigned, urge the City Council to vote No Confidence and remove Council member, Kerry Ferguson, from leadership as Mayor of San Juan Capistrano.”

I think it’s ironic that after being asked a direct question about the petition, she never answered the question, but instead launched an attack on three citizens.

For someone who claims to be a supporter of the First Amendment, she sure seems to try to deny those very rights of anyone who disagrees with her.

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.

GUEST OPINION: by Megan Yoo Schneider, Representative on the Board of Directors of the Municipal Water District of Orange County

California WaterFix Critical to South County

T

he Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is 435 miles from South Orange County, but the impact of what happens there is felt as close to home as your shower.

The Delta is the heart of the State Water Project. Near Stockton, the Delta is where the tidal forces of the Pacific Ocean meet the outflows of the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers. Water flows through the Delta before entering a series of reservoirs, pumps and canals that bring water from the Sierras to Southern California.

About 50 percent of the water used in South Orange County flows through the Delta. Without a rich aquifer, we are nearly dependent on water imported from the Sierras or the Colorado River.

Before that abundance of melted snow and freshwater reaches us, it must navigate more than 1,100 miles of levees that channel water through the Delta. In contrast, the entire California coastline is about 840 miles. But the levees are old and susceptible to failure from age, earthquake and even too much water. A catastrophic failure would cripple our water supply.

Efforts to protect fish and other environmental regulations also means that Southern California gets only 60 percent of its water allotment from the Sierras in an average year, which increases our depen-

The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

dence on the Colorado River.

State officials and water leaders support a solution: the California WaterFix, which would build twin tunnels beneath the Delta to deliver the water to Southern California. A partner project, California EcoRestore, would create natural habitat through the Delta to support fish and address other enviBy Megan Yoo ronmental concerns.

Schneider A study of Orange County’s future water supply determined the WaterFix is the single-most, cost-effective, large-scale project to ensure long-term water reliability for Southern California.

The WaterFix will ensure we receive our share of the water by taking it directly from the Sacramento River during high-flow periods, and funneling it beneath the Delta.

Instead of losing valuable stormwater to the Pacific Ocean, the WaterFix will allow it to be captured and used where it is needed.

Your local water suppliers, all members of the Municipal Water District of Orange County, are working on new sources of water, too. The Santa Margarita and South Coast water districts and San Juan Capistrano want to maximize use of the area’s groundwater basin; South Coast plans a de-

salination plant, and all agencies, including Moulton Niguel Water District, are honing the art of using water efficiently.

The Orange County Water Reliability Study found the WaterFix will remain a critical part of California’s water system even with these projects. Yes, the WaterFix comes with a price tag– about $5 per month per customer—but the cost of ignoring our infrastructure needs are much greater.

Leaders of the Laguna Beach County, Moulton Niguel and South Coast water districts have endorsed the WaterFix. Reach out to your elected officials—city, state and federal—and let them know you do, too.

Although your shower might be the first place you notice a water shortage, the impacts will be felt throughout Southern California.

See www.californiawaterfix.com for more information.

Megan Yoo Schneider is a registered engineer in California and represents South Orange County on the Board of Directors of the Municipal Water District of Orange County. She was elected in 2016. CD

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Allison Jarrell, 949.388.7700, x108 ajarrell@thecapistranodispatch.com SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

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

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick OPERATIONS

City Editor, DP Times > Kristina Pritchett

Finance Director > Mike Reed

City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz

Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett

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SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Debra Holm Tim Trent Alex Paris Duane Murphy Rachel Wilford

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 15, Issue 13. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly

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

Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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

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

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GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List What’s going on in and around town

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 14 SUMMER OF THEATRE: BIG BAND 7:30-9:30 p.m. Joey Sellers and the Saddleback Big Band perform, featuring Shep Shepherd. Free admission. Saddleback Co llege. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. 949.582.4500. www.saddleback.edu.

Saturday | 15 SAN CLEMENTE OCEAN FESTIVAL It’s time for “The Greatest Show on Surf.”

Throughout the weekend, athletes will compete in intense ocean-based and lifeguard competitions, including standup paddle board races, the Dory Boat races and more. There’s also fun for the whole family north of the San Clemente Pier at the Youth Pavilion. San Clemente Pier. www.oceanfestival.org.

SMART GARDENING 101: FERMENTATION 9:30-11 a.m. Join Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens and the University of California Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners for Smart Gardening 101. Classes are free and held at Reata Park and Event Center.

28632 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.606.6704. www.goinnative.net.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY FOOD DRIVE 12-4 p.m. Help the Capistrano Eagles M.C. support Father Serra’s Pantry. Non-perishable canned food items including fruits, vegetables, soups, meats, fish, poultry, pasta, beans, etc. and personal hygiene products are needed. The items will benefit local families. There will be a drive-up/ drop-off at the rear of the Swallow’s Inn parking lot. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

Sunday | 16 DANA POINT SUMMER CONCERT 2:30-6 p.m. This week’s bands are Rio: a tribute to Duran Duran, and Crimes of Passion, a Pat Benator tribute. A free shuttle service will be provided from Dana Hills High School from 1-7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Sea Terrace Park. 33501 Niguel Road, Dana Point.

EDITOR’S PICK

Tuesday | 18 LUNCH LOCAL 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the San Juan Chamber of Commerce for a networking lunch at Trevor’s at the Tracks, located at 26701 Verdugo Street in San Juan Capistrano.

RSVP to claire@sanjuanchamber.com or call 949.493.4700.

Thursday | 20 CHAMPAGNE COWGIRL THURSDAYS SIP & SHOP 5-8 p.m. Enjoy champagne, small bites, live entertainment, shopping, discounts and prizes at Wildfire Mercantile. Admission is free. 26850 Ortega Highway, Suite K, San Juan Capistrano. 949.240.6770. wildfiremercantile@gmail.com.

Robin Hood, played by Gerardo Villa-Lobos and Maid Marian, played by Austin Eisner, share a moment on the HTC Park stage. Photo: Allison Jarrell

FRIDAY, JULY 14 - SUNDAY, JULY 16: THEATER IN THE PARK: ‘ROBIN HOOD’ 7:30 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse brings the legendary adventures of Robin Hood to life at San Juan Capistrano’s Historic Town Center Park. Watch as the story’s beloved characters fight to stop the evil Prince John and the nefarious Sheriff of Nottingham. See Maid Marian capture Robin’s heart as the history of England comes to San Juan Capistrano. Attendees will be treated to sword fights and an archery contest. The show runs Friday-Sunday each weekend through July 30. Tickets are $15. Historic Town Center Park.

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

For a full preview of the show and photo gallery, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

ON THE MENU

BREAKFAST BURRITO FROM LOS PATIOS

S

Tuesday | 25 WILD WONDERS 2-2:45 p.m. Take a walk on the wild side and help the San Juan Capistrano Library wrap up its summer reader program while learning about animals from around the world. Free program. 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

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.

ituated in the cozy confines of Old City San Clemente near Avenida Miramar, Los Patios Mexican Cocina offers an authentic quality and affordability for Mexican cuisine, especially when they open doors at 11 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Friday to Saturday. Operating since 2002, Los Patios Mexican Cocina was founded by Carlos Frutos, a Mexico City, Mexico native who moved to San Clemente as a teenager and attended Saddleback Community College.

Most of the meals he and his staff prepare have origins as well as inspirations from the Mexican state of Michoacán de Ocampo.

One of their own delicious entrees includes a breakfast burrito. This $6.25 meal is great

for brunch and is filled with two scrambled eggs, potatoes, refried beans and ham.

Other meat choices for this particular burrito dish include sausage or bacon. Beyond their exquisite burrito entrees, other specials include Taco Tuesday’s and happy hour on week days between 3-7 p.m.

Los Patios Mexican Cocina 111 West Avenida Palizada, Suite 17, San Clemente, CA 949.492.0162, www.lospatiosrestaurant.com

‘The Big Sick’ is a Deserved Sleeper Hit

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

mazon Studios’ new feature The Big Sick is a wonderful collaboration between comic actorturned-screenwriter Kumail Nanjiani, A-list producer Judd Apatow and indie filmmaker Michael Showalter. The film is reminiscent of My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) or Bend It Like Beckham (2002), where a young protagonist is attached to The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

their overprotective family, and conflict arises when they begin a courtship with someone outside of their culture. Here, Nanjiani not only loosely based the romantic comedy on his real life and cast himself as the lead, but also kept his real name for the character.

Nanjiani begins the film by showing how his family immigrated to the U.S. from Pakistan when he was a teenager, and then how his life consists of being an Uber driver, performing local stand-up and dodging his parents’ (Anu-

pam Kher and Zenobia Shroff) insistence that he marry a nice Pakistani girl. In the middle of passively ignoring the blind dates set up by his mom, Kumail falls in love with a local white girl named Emily (Zoe Kazan), who is unaware she has a lung infection.

Like most of Apatow’s films, stand-up comedy plays a big role in the story, but not to an obnoxious level as was the case with Funny People (2008). Nanjiani and his wife, Emily Gordon, write their love story together

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Photo: Sarah Shatz. Courtesy of Amazon Studios

in a charming and sentimental way. The Big Sick is the very definition a feel-good movie, despite the subject of illness surrounding the plot, and possibly the best comedy of the year thus far. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Zen and the Art of Self-Defense Local Krav Maga studio offers series of free self-defense seminars for women

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

n a recent Thursday evening in San Juan Capistrano, a group of women gathered at a martial arts studio—many of them for the first time—to learn about how to protect themselves in dangerous situations.

The women practiced springing up from the ground—always moving away from an attacker—and learned a variety of basic strikes, blocks and kicks.

Karen Fulco, of Aliso Viejo, said it was her first time taking the class, and she didn’t regret it.

(The course) was very “empowering.

It built my

confidence. I’ll definitely come back again.

”

—Karen Fulco

Established in 1991, Zen Dojos Martial Arts Academy has been serving San Juan for more than two decades under the direction of Sensei Paul Benavidez, a certified Krav Maga instructor who teaches the free self-defense courses with the help of Sensei Ian Miller and Sensei Marco O’Campo.

The Krav Maga studio began offering the free 10-part series of self-defense seminars

this summer with the aim of empowering women in the community. The classes are held every third Thursday of the month, and there are eight courses left in the series— the next one is on July 20 from 6:30-8 p.m.

Sensei Ian Miller said the hour-anda half-long classes are geared toward beginners and include instruction for basic moves that will hopefully make women feel more confident in their daily lives. Miller said the benefits from martial arts and Krav Maga aren’t just limited to increased physical fitness—they often translate to an increased level of awareness, problem solving and reaction skills.

“We want to empower women to be able to recognize and deal with a threat before it escalates into anything physical,” Miller said. “You just never really know when it’s going to come into play. But the more you do it, the more ready you are for any kind of curve ball life throws your way.”

For more information on the free selfdefense seminars, visit www.zendojos.com or call 949.240.6574. To RSVP for the next class on Eventbrite, search for “Women’s Self Protection Seminar July 20” by Zen Dojos Capistrano.

Zen Dojos is located at 31888 Del Obispo Street, Suite C-6, in San Juan.

For a special video feature on the free self-defense seminars, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. CD

Battle of the Apps Local chefs compete in The Ecology Center’s annual Eco App Off

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

E

leven chefs from across Southern California gathered to show off their locally-sourced, eco-friendly appetizers at The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano on Wednesday, June 24. But it was Chef Blake Mellgren of Dana Point’s Craft House who took home the grand prize for his crowd-pleasing Mexican street corn.

The Ecology Center’s annual Eco App Off is described as a “friendly culinary The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

Craft House’s locally-sourced Mexican street corn dish took top honors at The Ecology Center’s annual Eco App Off. Photo: Michelle Montgomery/Michelle Marie Photography

competition that celebrates local farmers, fisherman and ranchers committed to creating an ecological food future.” And the rules are simple—source every ingredient in the appetizer from within 250 miles.

Mellgren said this was the second year Craft House has participated in the Eco

Participants strike a self-defense pose during a free seminar at Zen Dojos Martial Arts Academy.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

CRIME & SAFETY IN SAN JUAN: Recently, the city of San Juan Capistrano was ranked #28 of the top 50 safest cities in California by SafeWise (the city moved up four spots from #32 last year).

The organization utilizes FBI crime report statistics and population data to come up with its annual list, which can be found at www.safewise.com/blog/safest-citiescalifornia.

While those statistics bode well for residents, data from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department shows that assaults in San Juan Capistrano rose from 34 incidents in 2014 to 62 in 2016.

“San Juan Capistrano, like many California cities, has seen a recent uptick in assaults,” said Lt. Scott Spalding, chief of police services for San Juan Capistrano. “It is my observation and opinion

App Off. Last year’s dish was a fish crudo with yellowtail, and this year’s winning course was grilled Mexican street corn.

The appetizer consisted of white and yellow corn from the Coachella Valley, crema and cotija cheese from Los Angeles, micro cilantro grown in San Clemente by South Coast Microgreens, and limes from Mellgren’s own backyard.

“We pride ourselves in sourcing everything as locally as possible at the restaurant, so why not challenge ourselves even more and try to source the whole dish from within 250 miles?” Mellgren said.

Seven local fishing boats contribute to the menu at the Craft House. Just last week, Mellgren said fishermen brought in 40 pounds of yellowtail and a 40-pound white seabass.

“Even with our beer list, everything on draught is from Los Angeles to San Diego County. And we only serve California wines,” Mellgren said. “We try to showcase what California truly has to offer.”

Also in attendance was Pascal Olhats,

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that many factors have contributed to the increase. One of the biggest factors appears to be the reemergence of illegal drugs (particularly methamphetamine and opiates) in our communities. In many of our assault cases, at least one of the subjects is suspected of being under the influence of an intoxicant. Fortunately, in San Juan Capistrano the vast majority of assault cases are not random.

“From a law enforcement standpoint, we advise people to avoid physical confrontations whenever possible,” Spalding said, adding that he recommends learning techniques that are simple and easy to remember and focus on: • Escaping from chokes and holds • Deterring an attacker • Using everyday items (keys, purses, laptops, etc.)

chef and owner of his self-named restaurant, Pascal, in San Juan Capistrano.

When asked about the inspiration behind his appetizer—steamed and chilled Baja mussels—Olhats answered with one word: simplicity.

“The fact that everything is local is already simple, so you don’t want to cover up the natural flavors,” Olhats said. “I steamed the mussels in their own juice— no wine—and I used local sweet onion and dried some oregano. Oregano powder is my only spice, and that’s it. I’m keeping it simple with natural flavors.”

Olhats said that same simplicity can be found at his San Juan restaurant every day.

“People think that a French restaurant is complex and very elaborate,” Olhats said. “It is elaborate, but in a way where each ingredient has its own unique flavor, and each ingredient has a reason to be on the plate. That’s my philosophy.”

For more information on the participating chefs, visit www.theecologycenter.org/ resources/event/eco-app-off. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

Business Beat

News from San Juan Capistrano’s business community

BY RACHEL WILFORD

NEW BUSINESSES WILDFIRE MERCANTILE 26850 Ortega Highway, Suite K 949.240.6770 www.facebook.com/ladieswesternboutique The San Juan Capistrano community can now enjoy upscale, Western fashion options with the opening of Wildfire Mercantile, a new women’s boutique owned

by Susan Gregory-Stansbury that opened Wednesday, May 17.

Gregory-Stansbury has been a realtor in the area for over 20 years and also has an equestrian background. She is on the board of directors for Las Vaqueras, a women’s riding club, as well as the Equestrian Coalition, an organization that works to preserve and protect the equestrian lifestyle in town. She also rides and competes often with her two horses named Bentley and Seamus.

“I love the Western style and I think San Juan will definitely support this boutique,” Gregory-Stansbury said. “We have a big equestrian community here and this town is historically a very Western town, so we really needed a store with this kind of flavor. It seemed like this was the town’s missing niche.”

Gregory-Stansbury said she had been thinking about opening up the boutique for quite some time and cultivated ideas about how she would do it from her annual visits to Cowboy Christmas—a shopping extravaganza at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. She and her husband, Troy, began searching for spaces and finally signed a lease downtown in April.

Susan Gregory-Stansbury, owner of Wildfire Mercantile. Photo: Rachel Wilford

The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

The boutique carries mainly women’s clothing items, but also features a rack of men’s clothing that Gregory-Stansbury calls “the guilty rack.” She says that phase two for the boutique is to start incorporating more menswear because it has been selling very quickly so far.

Wildfire Mercantile offers Westernstyle shirts, boots, hats, belts, denim and even jewelry. Gregory-Stansbury said she works with a Native American woman named Jenny Forks who lives in Oklahoma and makes all of the turquoise jewelry that is offered in in the shop by hand.

“This boutique offers upscale fashion with a Western flare,” Gregory-Stansbury said. “I try to provide items that women can wear both sandals and cowboy boots with.”

Gregory-Stansbury said she named the store after her favorite Michael Martin Murphey song, “Wildfire,” which is about a girl and her horse named Wildfire.

“My goal for this boutique is that when customers walk in, I want them to feel like this is a destination,” Gregory-Stansbury said. “I want to give people the feeling that this is some place different and special.”

BASANTI 27221 Ortega Highway, Suite G 949.276.2166, www.basantirestaurant.com Indian food is making its debut in San Juan Capistrano with the opening of Basanti, a restaurant that owner Roshan Kumar describes as casual, neighborhood, North Indian cuisine.

Since its opening a month ago, Basanti has been hosting more and more guests every day, many of them repeat customers.

“One man has come in at least 12 times so far,” Kumar said. “The best part is when people come back and bring their family and their friends. It’s rewarding when they love our food.”

Kumar owned a restaurant in San Francisco that closed in 2010. After he and his family moved to Southern California recently, Kumar decided he wanted to open up a new restaurant. When he found the available space in April, he and his wife Shradha decided to take the leap and open Basanti in San Juan.

Kumar and Shradha were both born and raised in Nepal, but they didn’t meet until they both moved to San Francisco in the early 2000s. They have lived in Fullerton for almost two years with their two young sons and just celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary.

During his youth, Kumar said that his father was his cooking mentor and that they used to cook together often.

“Every Saturday in Nepal, we would always cook extra food for anyone who wanted to come by,” Kumar said. “We always had many visitors and my father loved cooking for them.”

Basanti’s menu features traditional Indian dishes such as a variety of tandoori entrees, curries and naan bread.

The couple chose the name Basanti for the restaurant because the word means

Singer/songwriter Scotty Morris smiles as the band closes their Friday, July 7 show at the Coach House. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, a contemporary swing revival band { I N S AN JUAN } based out of Ventura, performed live at The Coach House on Friday, July 7. The band entertained the audience with a mix of original music and covers of the classics. They also played several songs from their eleventh studio album, “Louie, Louie, Louie”— a salute to the music of Louis Armstrong, Louis Jordan and Louis Prima—which was recently released on Friday, June 16.

For tickets to future Coach House shows, visit www.thecoachhouse.com. For more information on Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, visit www.bbvd.com.

To view a photo gallery from the show, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

SCENE

“spring.” Kumar said he plans to decorate the inside of the restaurant with many vibrant colors and artwork once they are able to get more settled in.

Kumar said he puts his heart and soul into the food he cooks for his guests. He can be found making traditional Indian dishes in the restaurant’s kitchen with the help of his co-chef Bobino Bires. Bires is originally from Bombay (now called Mumbai) and Kumar is thankful to have Bires cooking by his side.

“Cooking is my first love,” Kumar said.

“It is the thing I fell in love with before I fell in love with my wife.”

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Basanti’s mixed grill tandoori dish features an assortment of fish, prawns, chicken and lamb.

Photo: Rachel Wilford

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

Senior Dating Has Changed Over the Years

S

eventeen years ago, I was sitting in a chair on the set of The Today Show at the NBC studios in New York City, waiting for Matt Lauer to interview me.

I could see a few hundred people gathered on the street in front of Rockefeller Center, waving signs and placards.

Although I had been on Today two years before, I was still nervous. After all, the show was being ON LIFE AND broadcasted across the LOVE AFTER 50 country.

By Tom Blake Matt introduced me: “Tom Blake, syndicated columnist and author of the book, Middle Aged and Dating Again, has some great advice for people dating the second and third time around.”

I had been a columnist for six years and had published the book two years before.

Matt’s first question: “Do you think the dating rules have changed in your 50s versus in your teens, 20s and 30s?”

I smiled and said, “Some of us haven’t had a date in 30 years—you bet they are different.”

During the 4-minute interview, I attempted to explain how dating had changed and why dating after 50 was so difficult. These five items summarize what Matt and I talked about.

1. Older singles aren’t prepared. After a long-term marriage or relationship, perhaps 30 years or more, our spouse or significant other is gone. We had been preparing to spend our retirement years together, not preparing to date.

2. There aren’t places to go where there are relatively even numbers of single men and women in our age range. The ratio is often four or five to one, women to men, making it difficult for women to meet available men.

3. Baggage. Matt mentioned the word baggage often. There are ex’s, kids, grandkids, fear of getting hurt again, financial issues and an endless number of factors that can bog down a relationship.

4. We’ve aged. On Today, I explained to Matt that age made dating more difficult compared to those younger years he mentioned. We don’t have the energy we once had and dating takes energy. Plus, we’ve added wrinkles and wear and tear on our bodies.

5. Compatibility with a mate is hard to find. As we age, we are more set in our ways. We aren’t going to accept someone to share our life with who doesn’t measure up to our standards or who has vastly different beliefs.

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17 years later Now, 17 years after appearing on that show, I see how senior dating has changed since even then. The basic premises of the five items above remain the same, but the degree of difficulty of each has increased.

It’s now dating after 60, 70 and 80.

If singles weren’t prepared for dating after 30 years in a relationship, think how unprepared they are now after 50 years in a relationship.

And, as if those ratios of women to men weren’t challenging enough for single women, now the ratios are more like six or seven to one. According to the Census Bureau’s Population Estimates Program from 2011 to 2015, as we hit 60 and 70, the number of available single men decreases significantly.

Plus, in 17 years, we’ve aged even more.

I saw Matt Lauer on Today last week and he’s aged right along with us. We don’t move like we did at 50. We have aches, pains, bad hips and knees and a myriad of other health issues, making it harder to get off the couch, out of the house and into the dating world.

And one very big factor is technology.

Think how the Internet has evolved with social media, dating sites and romance scams. Texting by phone is how some singles communicate. They even break up by text. Technology can be intimidating and overwhelming for seniors. Some don’t even own a computer; some have never sent a text.

So yes, senior dating has changed; it’s more difficult now. But, it’s not impossible. Maybe Matt will have me back on Today and I can update him on what senior singles can do to find a mate.

They need to keep smiling, keep trying, keep moving and be positive and appreciate life. And above all, they should never give up. Miracles can happen.

To view Tom’s Today Show interview with Matt Lauer, visit www.findingloveafter50.com/videos. The interview is on row two, far right, and row three, far left.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating.

See his websites at www.findingloveafter50. com; www.vicsta.com and www.travelafter55. com. To receive Tom’s weekly online 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

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SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

Old Masters of Art Paved Historical Road for San Juan How unsuccessful projects and unexpected connections can lead to one’s true calling

W

ith the months of May and June come graduations and the beginning of new careers, dreams and expectations. Be open to new challenges and new adventures—you may be surprised where they take you.

Everyone is aware of Samuel Morse and his invention of the telegraph and Morse code in 1844. But that is not how he started out in his career—first, he was an artist. Morse wanted to become a historical painter and bring history to the masses. He also wanted Americans to appreciate paintings of the masters. To show the public the “Old Masters” of art from Europe, he went to Paris and created a 6-foot by 9-foot painting of 38 works of the Old Masters, including the Mona Lisa, and proceeded to bring the painting back to the United States and show it to the public for 25 cents a pop. The painting, titled “Gallery of the Louvre,” was not well received. In the early part of the 19th century, European art was not part of the psyche of the American public.

While in Paris, Morse saw the telegraph that the French had constructed.

Their invention had major issues—it did not work at night or when it rained or snowed. Morse decided he could do better, and when his great painting failed to capture an audience, he turned all of his energy to inventing an electric telegraph.

And the rest is history.

During his time as an artist, Morse met and befriended artist John G. Rand. He saw talent in Rand and encouraged him to pursue a career in art. Rand became known as a portrait painter. He travelled to England and became popular with the royal family. While in England, he invented a tube in which to keep paints.

This small invention revolutionized art.

Until Rand’s invention in 1841, paint and painting had remained unchanged for almost 400 years, since the Renaissance. Oil paints were time-consuming to make and dried out quickly, so artists could only produce a few colors at a time and then had to use them quickly. If artists wanted to go outside to paint, they placed the paint in a pig’s bladder, which was like a balloon. To use the paint, the artist would have to poke a hole in the bladder, paint, and then try to cover up the hole in the bladder. But that was not always successful. Often, the hole was not properly sealed and would leak or just dry out. Rand’s invention allowed many colors The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

to be carried outside at once, and the closing of each tube with a screw top kept the paints from drying out and leaking.

This invention did not become popular until the impressionist movement caught on in the late 19th century. Plein air painting became much easier with the invention of the tube.

A leading impressionist painter, PierreAuguste Renoir once said, “without paint MOMENTS in tubes, there would IN TIME have been no CéBy Jan Siegel zanne, no Monet, no Pissarro, and no Impressionism.”

Every Friday at 11 a.m., Mission San Juan Capistrano has a docent-led art walk which highlights the religious and plein air art in the Mission collection.

Since the start of Impressionism, the Mission has been a gathering place for artists. Madame Modjeska, the great Shakespearean actress, painted at the Mission, as well as plein air artist Percy Austin. Visiting the Mission is a perfect way to recollect how history and art have come together in our community. And it all started when a struggling artist, Morse, encouraged a young man, Rand, to pursue his dream.

That man revolutionized how we make art and think of art.

The weekly art walk is free with your admission to the Mission. Spend a “Moment in Time” and reflect on how history, art and dreams have changed our lives.

Jan Siegel is a 28-year resident of San Juan Capistrano. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 13 years and has been a volunteer guide for the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library’s architectural walking tour for 18 years. She was named Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD

GUEST OPINION: Branching Out by San Juan Capistrano Library Staff and the Friends of the Library

A Bookworm’s Best Friend Library program pairs dogs and kids together to make reading fun

T

hinking back to elementary school, some of the scariest moments were being the focus of everyone in the class and having to read out loud. Looking at that sea of faces was enough to trigger a severe case of laryngitis.

But children visiting the San Juan Capistrano Library have found that reading aloud can be something to look forward to because of B.A.R.K., a program that helps children read with confidence.

B.A.R.K. (Beach Animals Reading with Kids) was founded in 2007 and uses certified therapy dogs to help kids increase their reading skills. It turns out that dogs are great listeners and are not nearly as intimidating as a roomful of classmates.

Donna Fancher and her dog, Harbor, have been involved with the library’s “Read to a Dog” program for three years and visit San Juan Capistrano twice a month. Harbor enjoys the attention, petting and tummy rubs and, as Donna describes it, “just relaxes while the children read”—a perfect job for the “very mellow yellow Labrador/golden retriever.”

Fancher spoke with enthusiasm as she shared a variety of heartwarming stories.

She talked about a girl in the summer reading program who looks forward to seeing Harbor so she can make progress toward her reading goals—up to three books per visit. Fancher said that sometimes children tell her that they can only read in Spanish.

“I let them know that Harbor understands Spanish, so that is good,” Fancher said.

Donna Fancher (right) and her dog, Harbor.

Photo: Courtesy of Donna Fancher

Research shows that children are often more willing to interact with a dog than another person, because the animal will not pass judgment or laugh at them.

Furthermore, when kids read with a dog, they relax and forget about feeling self-conscious or nervous. Soon, they are enjoying the experience of reading instead of dreading it, and even look forward to the next time.

“It warms my heart to observe such positive results,” Fancher said. “Harbor does not have a clue that she is working and giving benefit, because all she needs to do is lie there, while children read, pet and talk to her.”

Harbor and other favorite dogs from B.A.R.K. visit the San Juan Capistrano Library every other Thursday at 3 p.m. The next scheduled “Read to a Dog” session is Thursday, July 20. Please stop by the library, or visit www.ocpl.org for a calendar of all upcoming programs and events.

The “Branching Out” column is a collaboration between San Juan Capistrano Library staff and the Friends of the Library, a nonprofit that supports the library and its programs by raising funds through its onsite bookstore and special events. For more information on the library, visit www.ocpl. org or follow @SJCFriends on Facebook. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

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

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

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:

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

Page 16

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SUMMER TOYS 9’-0” Longboard Shaped by Ben Aipa, good condition...$150.00. Mountain Bike, Kona Coiler, full suspension, disk brakes, new tires...$500.00. Bob 949.493.5597 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! Mike 949-240-1545.

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

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SERVICES CODING TUTOR See how to create programming code. Quick introductions to Java and Python. 5 hours each. Weekdays and Saturdays in San Juan Capistrano. 3 hour Python version coming soon. Orange Coast Database Associates 949-489-1472

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STAMPS! Buying Large Postage Stamp Collections. Nick (619) 672-0434

Do you want to reach 24,150+ people in the San Juan Capistrano area? *2.1 readership per 11,500 copies distributed

Then you need to be in The Capistrano Dispatch. Call us today!

949.388.7700 ext. 104 The Capistrano Dispatch July 14–27, 2017

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Growing the Game Zack and Colton Clark start free lacrosse camp for area youth

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Z

ac and Colton Clark had an idea.

What if they could take the sport they love, lacrosse, and share it with kids from the neighborhood who had never even seen a game played before?

What if they could get those same kids to fall in love with the sport, just like they did at an early age?

The idea led to them wanting to start their own free lacrosse skills camp. What they needed next, were interested campers.

The two Dana Point residents and JSerra Catholic High students packed up their lacrosse sticks and nets and hit local parks throughout San Juan Capistrano. They started passing and shooting, hoping to catch the attention of curious onlookers.

They passed out flyers to parents primarily in the Capistrano Villas neighborhood, promoting the first-ever Los Gallos Lacrosse Camp. They let kids give the sport a try, and told them to come out to Stone Field Park on Monday, July 10, for a free week-long camp. The Clarks enlisted the help of San Juan-based charitable nonprofits Unidos and Great Opportunities to help spread the word.

Colton and Zac Clark (back right, second from right) created the free Los Gallos Lacrosse Camp for San Juan Capistrano youth. Photo: Steve Breazeale

San Juan kids of all ages enjoyed taking part in the free Los Gallos Lacrosse Camp this week. Photo: Steve Breazeale

The grass-roots effort paid off on day one, as 10 kids showed up for the first three-hour session. Each day, more and more campers showed up. On the penultimate day of the camp, Wednesday, July 12, their numbers had swelled to 15.

“It’s a totally new sport to a lot of these kids. No one really knew what lacrosse was,” Colton Clark said. “So we had to go and engage with them and show them what it is and they love it.”

Aside from wanting to promote the sport of lacrosse, Zac and Colton felt it was necessary to get the children in the area active during the summer and keep them out of trouble. Great Opportunities is a San Juan-based organization that specializes in creating camps for high-risk youth in

through an easy warm up and go over the fundamentals, like how to hold a lacrosse stick and how to field a ground ball. They mix fun games, like relay races, into the day’s activities, and provide lunch when things wrap up just before noon. Zac and Colton’s lacrosse teammates and friends have shown up every day to help out and lend a hand.

The camp will end on Friday, July 14, but Zac and Colton are hoping to make Los Gallos Lacrosse a staple in the community. Colton has been busy creating a marketing campaign and created an Instagram account, @LosGallosLacrosse, to help get the word out to even more kids.

They hope to pick the camp back up again next summer. CD

the South Orange County area, and played a key role in advising Los Gallos Lacrosse on how to get things up and running.

“Our main goal is to keep them busy for a whole week,” Zach Clark said. “When you’re sitting around at home with nothing to do, that just allows you to engage in bad activity. We want to allow them to fall in love with a new sport.”

The camp also has a religious element to it. Every morning, campers and coaches say a quick prayer and a Bible verse is shared and discussed at the end of each session.

With their mother, Melissa Clark, looking on from the sidelines, Zac and Colton are running a well-oiled machine of a camp.

Each morning they run the campers

West Coast FC Soccer Teams Qualify for National Championships THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

hree West Coast Futbol Club soccer teams punched their tickets to the upcoming U.S. Youth Soccer National Championships in Frisco, Texas following outstanding performances at the U.S. Youth Soccer Far West Regionals.

The San Juan Capistrano-based club’s West Coast FC Armour 2001, West Coast 99 Wyss and West Coast Haney teams all advanced after strong showings at the regionals, which were held in Seattle June 19 to June 25.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 14-27, 2017

The club’s 99 Wyss U18 squad, which draws players from San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente, went 2-1 in pool play.

They shined in the knockout rounds, going undefeated before besting WPFC 99 Black 4-0 in the division championship. The team won its final three games by a combined 7-1 margin and outscored its competition 25-4 over the weeklong stretch.

All three teams will travel to play in the prestigious U.S. Youth Soccer National Championships, which start on Monday, July 24. CD

The West Coast Futbol Club’s 99 Wyss U18 team won its division at the U.S. Youth Soccer Far West Regional Championships in Seattle. Photo: Courtesy

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