December 23, 2016

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

Annual ‘Elf Crawl’ Returns Dec. 26 PAGE 12 FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

DECEMBER 23, 2016-JANUARY 12, 2017 • VOLUME 14, ISSUE 24

The Year in Review E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6 From top left, clockwise: Dancers perform at a summer event held by CREER. Students participate in the 58th annual Swallows Day Parade. An aerial view of San Juan Capistrano. San Juan Hills High School senior Noah Edgerton returned to the field this season. A cowboy holds on tight at the annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo. Photos: Staff

City Council Swears in New Councilmen, Appoints Mayor EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

SDG&E Approved to Expand Substation in San Juan Capistrano EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Sports Year in Review Highlights Biggest Stories SPORTS/PAGE 18

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING a bit of adjustment, the two could coexist profitably, without impairing the mutual views of the two most iconic buildings in our town—the Mission San Juan Capistrano and Judge Egan’s House.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The next City Council meeting is set for Thursday, Jan. 12 at 5 p.m.

FIND OUT MORE: For more comments from the outgoing Councilmen and newly elected officials, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —Allison Jarrell

SDG&E Approved to Expand Substation in San Juan Capistrano

Mayor Kerry Ferguson uses her first remarks as mayor to talk about how an “adjustment” to the Hotel Capistrano—which already has Council approval—could allow the hotel to “coexist profitably” with the Egan House.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week City Council Appoints Ferguson as New Mayor, Farias as Pro Tem THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council reorganized at its special Dec. 12 meeting, appointing Councilwoman Kerry Ferguson as the new mayor and newly elected Councilman Sergio Farias as mayor pro tem.

Ferguson, who served as mayor pro tem last year, replaces Councilwoman Pam Patterson at the center of the dais.

Before newly elected Councilmen Farias and Brian Maryott were sworn in, outgoing Councilmen Sam Allevato and John Perry were recognized for their service to the community.

Perry served for a year at the dais; he was appointed to the Council in 2015 after Roy Byrnes retired.

Allevato was a longtime Council member—he was first appointed in 2004 after serving on the Planning Commission for a year. He then ran unopposed in the 2004 Council election, and was elected by residents again in 2008 and 2012. Allevato served as mayor for three terms in 2006, 2010 and 2013, in addition to serving on

numerous committees and boards at the city and county level.

Ferguson began her term as mayor by sharing her goals, which she said are centered around three main themes: “bring greater security and wellbeing” to all neighborhoods, “continue on the path of sensible development,” and help the town to “prepare for the vast technological innovations that are coming.”

Ferguson said preserving the town’s past is an “absolute must for generations to come” and mentioned upcoming projects such as the skate park, which is in the design process, and continuing to work with the Juaneño community on the Northwest Open Space park.

Worthy of note is the focus Ferguson had on hotel projects in town. Even though the Inn at the Mission application has been withdrawn by developer Bill Griffith, she stated that “a beautiful fourstar hotel—the Inn at the Mission—will rise” at the site across from the Mission.

“I know it will,” she added.

Ferguson also noted that “another beautiful four-star hotel project—the Hotel Capistrano by Kimpton—has replaced the oversized project that proceeded it.” The new mayor went on to show a photo taken from the upper level of the Egan House looking toward the Mission Basilica.

“This is the historic view of the Mission and basilica from the unique gable balcony that I’m hoping won’t be blocked as it would in this rendering of the…”

Ferguson trailed off, “…which I won’t go into…,” another pause, “…as it could be by a restaurant building next door,” Ferguson said, referring to the Councilapproved Kimpton project. “I think with

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

THE LATEST: On Dec. 15, the California Public Utilities Commission voted unanimously to approve San Diego Gas & Electric’s proposal to expand its substation in San Juan Capistrano, as part of its South Orange County Reliability Enhancement (SOCRE) project.

The SOCRE project is a proposal by SDG&E to expand its current substation in San Juan Capistrano’s residential Las Brisas neighborhood by rebuilding and upgrading a portion of its transmission infrastructure. The project aims to create a redundant electrical system that would rely on two substations rather than just the current facility in Talega.

CPUC commissioners said despite concerns from some residents, the project is the best solution for ensuring greater electrical reliability in South Orange County.

WHAT’S NEXT: On Dec. 19, the City Council voted 5-0 in a special closed meeting to maintain opposition to the project and to pursue an application for rehearing, as well as a motion for a stay of the PUC’s administrative decision from last week.

City Attorney Jeffrey Ballinger said via email that if the request is denied, the city would have the ability to file with the California Supreme Court.

“At this point, all options are on the table,” Ballinger said. —AJ

Patterson Praises Developer with Mayor’s ‘Community Pride’ Award THE LATEST: At the City Council’s Dec. 12 meeting, before vacating her position as mayor, Councilwoman Pam Patterson awarded developer Bill Griffith and his wife, Chris, with the mayor’s Community Pride award for “their demonstration of community values through their loving renovation of the Judge Egan House.”

Patterson introduced the Griffiths as 30-year residents of San Juan with an even longer history of historical and archeologi-

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cal preservation. In addition to renovating the Egan House, Patterson listed accomplishments such as the restoration of the Esslinger Building in 2003 (which earned Griffith another mayor’s Community Pride award), development of the 45,000-squarefoot Serra Plaza in 2005, and the clock tower renovation at the south entrance of town in 2015. Most recently, Ellie’s Table café opened at the Egan House last month.

Patterson did not mention that Griffith is also the developer who proposed the 124-room Inn at the Mission boutique hotel project across from the Mission.

Grading began at that site last summer, which was possible due to permits already obtained for a different, previouslyapproved hotel project on that site. The city’s Planning Commission approved the new hotel design, but that approval was appealed. The project was scheduled for a review by the City Council, but Griffith withdrew his application in September.

At the time, Patterson said in an email that she was “very disappointed with the outcome,” and placed blame on city staff for the “manner in which the city processed the modification of an already approved hotel project at that site.”

In October, Griffith said in an interview that he has put developing a project on that site “on pause” due to serious objections to the Inn at the Mission and the approval of a competing hotel—the Hotel Capistrano by Kimpton—next to the Egan House. On Oct. 4, Griffith filed a complaint against the city over its approval of the Hotel Capistrano, which will be built between the Egan House and the Esslinger Building—both owned by Griffith.

Griffith thanked Patterson for the recognition on Dec. 12, adding that, on the “eve of swearing in a new Council” it’s important to emphasize “that the essence of San Juan is very much its history, its old buildings, and its spirit.”

“I hope the new Council has read the general plan, the historic town center plan, all of the specific plans that apply, and in each case there’s a major provision in those plans to preserve the authentic, historic nature of San Juan Capistrano,” Griffith said.

WHAT’S NEXT: For more information on the other awards Patterson gave at the Dec. 12 meeting, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com.—AJ

Southern California Edison Selects General Contractors for Decommissioning THE LATEST: On Monday, Dec. 19, Southern California Edison announced AECOM and EnergySolutions as the selection for a joint venture to decommission San Onofre (Cont. on page 4) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) Nuclear Generating Station.

WHAT’S NEXT: Decommissioning processes are expected to start the first quarter of this year. More information can be found at www.songscommunity.com. —Staff

Boys & Girls Clubs Hold Annual 'Operation Holiday Homework' THE LATEST: The scene at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley on Dec. 17 was reminiscent of Santa’s workshop.

Hundreds of members of the Boys & Girls Clubs were all smiles as they looked through rooms filled to the brim with toys and wrapped gifts for their families at the club’s San Juan Capistrano headquarters.

It was the organization’s annual Operation Holiday Homework, and this year, more than 150 volunteers made the event possible by helping each child select and wrap gifts for their family members.

Since 2003, Operation Holiday Homework has motivated Boys & Girls Club

members to focus on their education.

Club members participate in a homework “power hour” before play time 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.

Thousands of families in South Orange County have received gifts over the years because a youth in their family made homework a priority.

San Juan Capistrano Branch Director Michael Arellano said each year the event provides about 370 kids with the opportunity to “shop” for their families, as well as pick a gift out for themselves. More often than not, Arellano said the students choose to give their own gift to an additional family member.

“It really warms the heart,” said James Littlejohn, executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. “It’s a perfect time to come together as a community and put smiles on their faces.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Littlejohn attributed the success of the annual event to the hard work of club members and staff, volun-

Trustee Jim Reardon is sworn in by District Attorney Tony Rackauckas at the CUSD Board of Trustees meeting on Dec. 14. Reardon’s trustee area covers parts of San Juan Capistrano, Ladera Ranch, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita and Trabuco Canyon. Photo: Allison Jarrell

South County School Roundup The latest South Orange County news from the Capistrano Unified School District PHOTOS AND TEXT BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Capo Unified School Board Swears In Trustees, Reorganizes Following the November election, the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees swore in four trustees and reorganized at its Dec. 14 meeting.

Amy Hanacek, Trustee Area 1; Jim

Reardon, Trustee Area 2; and Gary Pritchard, Trustee Area 5; were all reelected in November and sworn into their seats. New to the board is Patricia Holloway, who was elected to represent Trustee Area 3, which encompasses San Clemente schools. Her predecessor, John Alpay, chose not to run for reelection.

Trustee Martha McNicholas was se-

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

Wyatt Anderson, 9, of San Juan Capistrano, wraps a gift for his family at the Boys & Girls Clubs’ annual Operation Holiday Homework. Photo: Allison Jarrell

teers from local businesses and organizations like the National Charity League, donations, and corporate sponsors such as Cox and Fluidmaster.

Fluidmaster President Todd Talbot was in attendance on Saturday, and said his

favorite part of the annual event is talking to the kids and hearing what they want to be when they grow up.

“Because of this club, a lot of those dreams are going to come true,” Talbot said. —AJ

lected as the new board president, Trustee Gila Jones was chosen as vice president, and Trustee Holloway was named the board clerk. McNicholas represents Area 4, which covers parts of Laguna Niguel and Dana Point. Jones represents Area 6, which covers portions of Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel and San Juan Capistrano.

All three appointments were unanimous.

“Serving our students and families is truly an honor,” McNicholas said in a press release. “Our role as a trustee is to ensure our students have the best educational opportunities possible, and I am looking forward to continuing our work in 2017.”

McNicholas has a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University and over 35 years of engineering experience. She has served on several school district committees and is known for her volunteerism in schools, including with PTAs and School Site Councils.

The board’s next regularly scheduled meeting is Jan. 25 at 7 p.m. at the CUSD board room, located at 33122 Valle Road in San Juan Capistrano.

facilities maintenance. The total debt service for the bond would have been $1.8 billion, which taxpayers would have been required to pay off over a 35-year period.

Measure M failed with 72,915 votes (45.5 percent). The bond needed 55 percent of the vote to pass.

In a press release sent out after the election, former board president Amy Hanacek wrote that with more than “4 million square feet of building space and inadequate funding,” the district still faces facility challenges such as “leaky roofs, HVAC, plumbing and electrical issues, security and fire safety, insufficient classroom and bathroom spaces for overcrowded schools, classroom technology upgrades, access for special needs students” and more.

“Frankly, I’m disappointed that it failed, but I’m very hopeful for the engagement and outreach that we will be doing in the months ahead,” Superintendent Kirsten Vital said at the board’s Nov. 16 meeting.

Hanacek said she feels the current facilities are “truly unacceptable,” and she hopes to improve communication with city officials so they understand that the children in their communities “need more from them than a photo opportunity or a handshake at graduation.”

In addition to continuing conversations with elected officials, the district is making an effort to increase transparency with two new opportunities for community oversight—the Community Facilities District Citizen’s Oversight and Advisory Commission, and the School Facilities and Finance Administrative Advisory Committee.

To learn more about the new committees, visit www.capousd.org. CD

Post-Measure M, CUSD to Remain Focused on Improving Facilities After Capistrano Unified School District’s Measure M failed to pass Nov. 9, district officials have said they intend to remain focused on improving school facilities and will increase outreach to city officials regarding the district’s facility needs.

The CUSD Board of Trustees placed the $889 million general obligation on the ballot in an effort to leverage state funds for more than $800 million in deferred

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www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Community Meetings SUNDAY, DEC. 25

Christmas Day SUNDAY, JAN. 1

New Year’s Day WEDNESDAY, JAN. 4

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.

FRIDAY, JAN. 6

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.

MONDAY, JAN. 9

Applications for City Commissions Due Jan. 27

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

Local Author Releases Expanded History of Southern California San Juan Capistrano author Donna Friess, with the help of Janet Tonkovich, recently released an expanded edition of Whispering Waters: Historic Weesha and the Settling of Southern California, an original Southern California historical account that explores early California through firstaccount stories of a historic fishing camp in historic Weesha Country Club in the San Bernardino Mountains.

Whispering Waters was first released in 1998, but locals inspired by the publication made new documents and photos available over the years. The second edition features 25 expanded pages, including copies of the legal indenture title papers drawn between the pioneer apple grower Forrest Ball, (one of the key founders of the city of Redlands) and C.C. Wagner, the founder of Weesha in 1909. The book also includes biographies of all the subsequent families of Weesha and their stake in grow-

Local author Donna Friess is also a professor emeritus with a doctorate in psychology, a life coach, a grief counselor and a social activist for children.

Photo: Courtesy

ing California.

Whispering Waters is available in print and electronically through Amazon. For more information, contact Donna Friess at 949.533.0810, donnalewisfriess@gmail. com or visit www.drdonnafriess.com.

Interested in getting involved with local government? City officials are looking for residents who want to serve on San Juan Capistrano’s advisory commissions.

The city is currently accepting applications for: Cultural Heritage Commission; Design Review Committee; Housing Advisory Committee; Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission; Planning Commission; Trails and Equestrian Commission; and the Utilities Commission.

Residents appointed to the commissions will serve a term from April 1, 2017 through March 31, 2019. All appointees must be residents of San Juan Capistrano, except for two designated positions on the Cultural Heritage Commission.

Applications will be accepted at City Hall until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27.

To access the commission application or the Planning Commission supplemental questionnaire, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org, or pick up the forms at City Hall, located at 32400 Paseo Adelanto. For more information, call 949.493.1171.

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

News Next Door

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

Youth Advisory Board Meeting

5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Youth Advisory Board meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Log on to www.sanjuancapistrano.org to see the body’s agenda.

TUESDAY, JAN. 10

Planning Commission Meeting

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

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 11

Trails and Equestrian Commission Special Meeting

6 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Trails and Equestrian Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Log on to www. sanjuancapistrano.org to see the body’s agenda.

THURSDAY, JAN. 12

City Council Meeting

5 p.m. The city’s governing body meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano. org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 13

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes

Dana Point: Ocean Institute Holds Tide Pool Hikes in December During a hike with the Ocean Institute to explore tide pools on Dec. 15, Orange County residents and visitors walked over the rocky beach to see sea creatures and learn about the tides.

Two of those explorers were Gina Scolari and her 4-year-old grandson, Johnny, who followed behind an Ocean Institute employee to check out tide pools in the marine protected area. Johnny walked briskly, trying to get to the beach faster. Once they arrived, Johnny showed his grandmother different things he could see in the water.

“Look,” he said as he pointed, “it’s a little crab moving.”

During the two-hour event, Institute employees Megan Peterson and Caitlin Mouri showed different sea creatures like a Black Sea Hare, a California Brown Sea Hare, hermit crabs and anemone to the group.

Not only does the hike provide participants exercise, but the group is able to learn about the importance of the tide pools.

“It’s important, especially in a marine protected area, to be able to interact with animals, and it’s not something everyone is able to do,” Peterson said. “They can really learn a lot more by seeing it.”

The Ocean Institute will hold two more tide pool hikes on Dec. 27 and 30. For more information, visit the Ocean Institute at www.ocean-institute.org. —Kristina Pritchett

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

Johnny Scolari and his grandmother, Gina, look into the tide pools during the Ocean Institute’s Dec. 15 hike.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

San Clemente: CPUC Orders Parties in SONGS to Reconsider Decommissioning Deal The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) ordered the entities involved with a San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) settlement to “consider modifications” to payments regarding the decommissioning of the power plant.

The Office of Ratepayer Advocates (ORA) and The Utility Reform Network (TURN) submitted adjustments to the agreement after J.K. Sandoval, the commissioner assigned to the case, ordered a reopening of the records to the settlement agreement.

A new agreement proposed by ORA and TURN would have customers paying $3.3 billion in decommissioning costs over 10 years as opposed to the initial proposal of $4.7 billion while the plant is decommissioned.

The settlement refers to the 2012 failure

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of a steam generator at SONGS, which led operators of the plant to shut down about a half year later.

The reopening of the settlement came after what the CPUC deemed were unethical conversations between officials from SONGS and former president of the CPUC Mike Peevey in 2014 that decided the rates at which the customers of the utilities would pay for decommissioning.

CPUC fined Southern California Edison, the majority stakeholder and operator of SONGS, $16.7 million.

The decision orders the interested parties to file their amendments to the agreement by April 28, 2017. If they can’t reach an agreement by then, the parties will have to submit a summary of their proposals to the CPUC to outline the steps going forward. —Eric Heinz www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

2016: Year in Review

Looking back on the biggest stories of the year THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

t has been a year of political discord in San Juan Capistrano—factions could often be seen sparring in the City Council chambers over development proposals and decorum. But it was also a year of progress—the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation will be able to honor their ancient village of Putuidem at a future community park in the city’s Northwest Open Space, the Hotel Capistrano was approved by the City Council, and the city hired a consultant this year to work on a design for a proposed skate park.

So before we start moving full steam ahead into 2017, let’s take a moment to reflect on some of the highlights and biggest headlines of 2016.

JANUARY

The year kicked off with a controversial move by the City Council—with a 3-1-1 vote, the majority of council members voted to reconsider and rescind the previous approval of a $1.5 million design contract for the widening of a 0.9-mile stretch of Ortega Highway. The move ultimately killed the widening project and cost the city millions in funding. The decision came after years of work and funds had been allocated to widen the “choke point” from two lanes to four lanes. The Council was later asked to return $700,000 to Orange County Transportation Authority that had been earmarked for the widening.

The Council majority also approved upgrades to a 1,000-foot stretch of the San Juan Creek Trail. The trail runs along the creek and is adjacent to The Oaks development, which includes 32 homes and an equestrian facility. The improvements had been a point of contention for many months due to arguments over design and whether bicycles and horses could coexist peacefully on the trail.

On Jan. 25, the City Council voted to ban all marijuana dispensaries, manufacturers, cultivation and delivery services in town. In anticipation of Prop. 64 passing in November, the Council later voted unanimously to adopt an ordinance that would require a permit to cultivate recreational marijuana indoors in a residential area.

FEBRUARY

New City Manager Ben Siegel began work at City Hall on Feb. 8. After almost six months of searching, the City Council unanimously selected Siegel in December

The Hotel Capistrano by Kimpton received City Council approval on Sept. 6. Image: Courtesy

2015. Siegel had previously worked in Laguna Beach as the assistant city manager and director of public works.

The city also began exploring land use options for one of its redevelopment properties—the 16.48-acre Lower Rosan Ranch.

The Council considered and ultimately rejected an agreement with a Costa Mesa developer to explore the feasibility of a “unique commercial retail/lifestyle center” on the property off of Stonehill Drive, opting instead for a more transparent Request for Proposals process.

In response to a voting rights act lawsuit filed in January, the City Council voted Feb. 16 to initiate a transition from at-large to district elections. The plaintiffs—Southwest Voter Registration Education Project (SVREP) and San Juan residents Tina Auclair and Louie Camacho—claimed that San Juan’s at-large elections violated the California Voting Rights Act of 2001, resulting in vote dilution of Latino residents. The city hired a demographer who used Census data and community input to draw a map of five voting districts, which the Council approved in June. Later in June, the Council voted 3-2 to designate Districts 1 and 5 as the two to vote for a Council member this year. Districts 2, 3 and 4 will vote for a council person in 2018.

An Orange County Superior Court judge ruled that the City Council unlawfully repealed the approval of the San Juan Hotel & Villas project in January 2015, acting “in excess of their jurisdiction.” Judge Randall Sherman ruled that the Council’s repeal of the Urban Village development approval “was unauthorized by law because it was premised on a referendum.”

After seven months of negotiations, the Capistrano Unified School District reached a tentative agreement with the Capistrano Unified Education Association on March 22 that increased salary schedules by 4 percent effective July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2017. The agreement was ratified on April 13.

As a result of an investigation by the Fair Political Practices Commission, Planning Commission Chairman Rob Williams was fined $400 for failing to report his investment in and income from his company, Studio 6 Architects, on his Statements of Economic Interest. In May, Councilman Derek Reeve asked the Council to consider removing Williams from the Planning Commission due to his unwillingness to recuse himself from reviewing the city’s HTC Master Plan and the Hotel Capistrano. The majority of the Council voted to allow Williams to stay on and review the hotel projects.

MARCH APRIL

On March 15, the City Council adopted a year-long temporary moratorium on permitting or establishing congregate living facilities—also known as sober living homes—in residential zones. The ordinance was intended to allow time for city staff to consider appropriate amendments to the city’s municipal code; however, Council members noted that much of the regulation needs to come from the state level. In December, the Planning Commission reviewed city code regarding “short term rentals and other transitory lodging uses” and voted unanimously to recommend the Council strengthen existing prohibitions of short-term lodging in residential zones.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

The City Council held its annual strategic planning meeting April 4. The Council’s top collective priorities were: improving the city’s street maintenance and rehab program, reorganizing the city’s water and wastewater utilities, and processing the two hotel projects downtown.

On April 5, the City Council voted 3-1-0 to enlist the Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) to initiate a municipal services review of the city’s ground water recovery plant.

City Council voted 4-1 to allocate $25,000 to issue a request for proposals for an initial design concept for a skate park at the city’s sports park. In July, the city

Page 6

hired Spohn Ranch as a design consultant for the skate park.

MAY

On May 3, the City Council approved a conceptual plan for the Northwest Open Space Community Park Project. The park will tell the story of and pay homage to the ancient village of Putuidem, where the ancestors of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation once lived.

The project has since been scaled back in some aspects but continues to move forward through the city’s review process.

At the Mission’s 12th annual Battle of the Mariachis, San Juan Capistrano-based group Mariachi Nuevo Capistrano won first place, shining a light on the city’s local music scene.

On May 17, San Juan Elementary students, families, teachers and staff joined Principal Sylvia Pule, members of the Orange County Historical Commission and CUSD Trustees for the unveiling of the plaque naming the school an official historical site in Orange County.

JUNE

A 17-year-old admitted to starting the June 15 brush fire in San Juan Capistrano that scorched 70 acres between Golden Lantern and Camino Capistrano.

The San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition presented an economic impact study to the City Council that claims the equestrian community brings in more than $50 million to the city over the course of a year.

The Friends of the Library held its annual meeting on June 1 amid controversy over the group’s struggling finances, revised bylaws and altered membership.

On Nov. 19, the friends held another meeting to adopt new bylaws and new board members.

JULY

The Camino Real Playhouse introduced www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

A bird’s eye view of the La Pata extension in San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Torin Alm

duced a new summer show, “The Curse of Capistrano,” which brought a chapter of San Juan Capistrano’s literary history to life. Audiences were treated to sword fights, political intrigue and romance as they watched the legend of Zorro at the Historic Town Center Park.

The Planning Commission approved both downtown hotel proposals on July 26—the Inn at the Mission and Hotel Capistrano by Kimpton. However, both approvals were appealed to the City Council shortly after. The Hotel Capistrano received Council approval on Sept.

6. The Inn at the Mission application was withdrawn by developer Bill Griffith on Sept. 14.

Three San Juan Capistrano deputies— Leith Chacon, Juan Lopez and Anthony Franco—were honored by the City Council on July 19 for their courageous actions while under fire during a 911 call on April 27.

AUGUST

The city held its first rent hearing Aug. 2 for El Nido Mobile Estates. The city’s hearing officer recommended the Council reject the park owner’s proposed rent increase of $403, which the Council ended up doing on Oct. 17. The park’s attorney filed a lawsuit over the rejected rent hike on Nov. 30.

On Aug. 10, the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees voted 6-1 to place an $889 million bond measure on the ballot in November in order to leverage state funds for the district’s $800 million worth of deferred maintenance.

The much anticipated La Pata extension, connecting San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente, opened to the public on Aug. 15.

U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Coach Robert Ridland was welcomed home at the RMV Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano after leading his team to a silver medal in Rio. Pacifica San Juan unveiled new model homes and launched sales of two neighborhoods.

SEPTEMBER

The San Juan Hills Golf Course and the

city settled the lawsuit that the course filed in 2014 over groundwater rights. Per the settlement, the city paid $2,040,000 to the golf club, with $2 million paid by the city’s insurer. The city also sold the golf club a city-owned piece of land adjacent to the club. That decision to sell the land was criticized by the public and is now being reconsidered by the Council.

Resident Michael Cefali sued the city over its ban on “for sale” signs in parked cars, which pushed the City Council to change its policy on Oct. 18.

Ashton Sachs, 22, was convicted of shooting and killing his parents, Andra and Bradford Sachs, and attempting to murder two of his siblings in his family’s San Juan Capistrano home on Feb. 9, 2014. Sachs was sentenced on Oct. 14 to life in prison without parole.

On Sept. 20, the City Council voted to study a general plan amendment for the Vermeulen Ranch property. Some Council members also expressed an interest in the city purchasing the property.

OCTOBER

The City Council voted 4-1 on Oct. 4 to initiate an amendment to the Los Rios Specific Plan in order to consider a proposed open-air commercial development off of Los Rios Street.

NOVEMBER

Sergio Farias wins City Council election in District 1. Brian Maryott was elected to represent District 5. CUSD’s Measure M failed.

San Clemente-based café Ellie’s Table opened on Nov. 18 at the historic Egan House.

DECEMBER

Councilwoman Kerry Ferguson was selected as next mayor. District 1 Councilman Sergio Farias was appointed to mayor pro tem.

SDG&E received approval from the CPUC on Dec. 15 to expand the substation in San Juan. The City Council recently voted to request a rehearing.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

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EYE ON SJC 2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

Best of the SJC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY STAFF

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

December SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle San Francisco, 26500 Block (Thursday, Dec. 15, 1:51 p.m.) A caller reported a “small bag of marijuana in the bushes under the stairs” in front of the caller’s apartment. The caller wanted police to “go find it and take it.” Police arrived to find an empty container.

November WELFARE CHECK Via La Plata, 32000 Block (Wednesday, Nov. 16, 12:11 a.m.)

A woman repeatedly called 911 talking about her sister and not knowing why she called. Police said the woman was unable to articulate if she needed police, fire or medics. The woman eventually told police that she accidentally drunk dialed 911.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino Capistrano, 32100 Block (Saturday, Nov. 12, 8:30 p.m.) An employee at Eng’s Chinese Deli called police after two men and a woman were seen standing outside of the business, looking through the windows for over an hour.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Paseo Carolina, 32100 Block (Wednesday, Nov. 2, 12:05 a.m.) A caller reported being followed by a grey Mazda hatchback driven by a man with “crazy messy spiked hair” wearing a polo shirt. The man had previously asked the caller to get into his car to help him because he was lost, and when the caller refused, the man told him he needed help “putting something in his trunk.” The caller ran away.

October SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Lookout Court, 32400 Block (Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2 a.m.) A woman reported a paranoid woman knocking at her door saying that someone was trying to kill her. When the woman opened the door, she discovered it was her 34-year-old daughter who was eating a “marijuana cookie” and complaining of pain. The caller told police that her daughter needed medical attention; she

was later taken to Mission Hospital.

July 2, 9:40 p.m.) A woman reported a dog barking on a neighboring street. She was convinced there was something wrong “as that is what she interpreted from the woofs.”

VANDALISM REPORT Paseo de Hermosa, 32000 Block (Monday, Oct. 17, 3:59 p.m.) A woman told police that several leaves had been destroyed on her potted plant in her front yard.

INVESTIGATE PERSON DOWN Calle Arroyo/Paseo Tirador (Saturday, July 2, 7:02 a.m.) A caller requested a patrol check at an empty lot next to Staples after seeing “a white tarp covering a body.”

The caller could only see feet but thought the person was dead because “it would be a weird place for a transient to sleep.”

The feet belonged to an elderly transient woman who was sleeping.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 31700 Block (Friday, Oct. 7, 3:08 p.m.) A woman called police to report a man at the Mission Fine Art Gallery who was “aggressively looking at artwork and disturbing art classes.” The man was last seen walking to a nearby Starbucks.

September

June

DISTURBANCE Calle Resplendor, 30700 Block (Wednesday, Sept. 14, 12:13 p.m.) A man reported that when his girlfriend and girlfriend’s family moved into their new house, they found an unknown woman yelling at everyone. The man later told police that the woman was a neighbor who had concerns about the property becoming a brothel. The woman apologized.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Ortega Highway/Interstate 5 (Tuesday, June 21, 9:38 a.m.) A patrol check was requested for a Middle Eastern man with a “white cloth that drapes over his neck” and “teal baggy pants” carrying a backpack and holding a sign that says “HAMAS” in front of the Shell station. Police discovered the sign actually read “HOMLAS.” The man agreed to stop soliciting drivers.

CITIZEN ASSIST Paseo Cerveza, 33200 Block (Friday, Sept.

2, 9:08 a.m.) An ongoing parking dispute was reported between the caller’s boss and the business manager next door. The caller told police that the business manager next door had a video camera taped to his steering wheel and a mannequin in his vehicle. The caller said he and his boss were “feeling very uncomfortable.”

DISTURBANCE Doheny Park Road, 33900 Block (Tuesday, June 21, 8:03 a.m.) A man, possibly under the influence of drugs, was harassing an employee at the Costco car wash and “trying to push his shopping cart” into the car wash and into the employee. The subject was also seen “dirty dancing on the trees.” The man then left the area toward the Stonehill bridge. About an hour later, the man was seen again on Costco property refusing to leave and exposing his genitals. The subject eventually left on foot toward the train tracks. Police arrested and booked the man at the Intake Release Center to identify him and cite him for indecent exposure and trespassing. He was released on June 22 with a court appearance date of July 20.

August SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Aeropuerto, 26000 Block (Thursday, Aug. 18, 4:03 p.m.) A woman called police complaining about the homeless camp on the hill behind the trailer park.

She said the homeless subjects had “engineered an explosive device on the railroad tracks” and she “saw wires and a USB cord on the train crossing.” Deputies located the object and discovered that it was trash. They found nothing suspicious.

PATROL CHECK San Juan Creek Road, 32300 Block (Thursday, Aug. 18, 3:57 a.m.) A caller was concerned about a man with long hair, no shirt and gym shorts running in the neighborhood.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Alipaz Street/Via Monterey (Tuesday, Aug. 2, 8:29 p.m.) A caller reported a white pickup camper shell at the end of Alipaz Street with subjects living in it and using “nature to relieve themselves.”

July CITIZEN ASSIST Peppertree Bend, 31600 Block (Saturday,

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

May SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Edgewood Road/Aspen Way (Tuesday, May 31, 3:28 p.m.) A patrol check was requested at the park for six male subjects, approximately 14 to 16 years old, smoking from a bong next to little kids on swings.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (Monday, May 23, 5:54 p.m.) An ongoing dispute between neighbors was called in by a woman who claimed her neighbor “sprayed her with a water hose” because she was watering her plants. The claim was unfounded.

April ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Calle de Bonanza, 34000 Block (Saturday, April 30, 3:41 p.m.) A male subject requested paramedics because he was Page 8

“tripping on snake venom.”

March DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 30300 Block (Friday, March 25, 10:10 p.m.) A resident at Silverado Senior Living punched another resident in the face. The victim had a small laceration but refused medics.

WELFARE CHECK Windjammer Drive, 25600 Block (Thursday, March 24, 2:38 p.m.) A man called police and said he wasn’t drunk but had taken Xanax and needed a deputy to explain to him “what sexual harassment is.” The man went on to admit he had been drinking a bottle of vodka with his prescription meds.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Interstate 5/Ortega Highway (Sunday, March 20, 11:16 p.m.) A patrol check was requested on Ortega near a hillside for “the world’s largest rock concert.”

February DISTURBANCE Paseo Laguna, 27300 Block (Tuesday, Feb. 23, 10:39 a.m.) A man told police that his neighbor told him “shut up or I’ll kick your ass” at an HOA meeting the day before. The man said he wasn’t concerned, he just wanted the issue to be documented.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES La Zanja Street, 26500 Block (Tuesday, Feb. 23, 12:02 a.m.) A caller reported hearing subjects “being loud and punching something.” The caller suspected that a fight may have broken out near the garages. A patrol check was conducted and police discovered the noise was actually kids playing soccer.

January SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle San Antonio, 26400 Block (Monday, Jan. 18, 10:32 p.m.) A woman said her son saw her daughter’s boyfriend try to crawl in through the window. The woman described her daughter’s boyfriend as a homeless man who rides an orange bicycle and is typically under the influence of a substance. The woman told police he sometimes sleeps in the laundry room and would attempt to do so all night. The man also unscrewed the outside lightbulbs.

A 32-year-old man, listed as a construction worker, was arrested in the incident and was in custody on $15,000 bail at the Central Men’s Jail.

9-1-1 HANGUP Camino Capistrano, 32000 Block (Monday, Jan. 4, 11:48 p.m.) A man called from the Ross Dress for Less payphone to say, “It’s pouring.” www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor

CITY NEEDS TO CLEAR DEAD TREES IN OPEN SPACE —Abbiegail Weiser, San Juan Capistrano Like many others, when driving into town from the north, I like to exit the freeway at Avery and drive the mile or so south on Camino Capistrano along our wonderful open space for a breath of fresh air. However, the view has been ruined by the dead and deteriorating orange groves, which makes me think there should be a sign saying, “Welcome to Neglectsville.”

Some of the hundreds of dead trees have just given up and toppled over, and have been lying on the ground—some of them for decades! I recall a meeting, which the now-defunct “San Juan Beautiful” organization had with the city in either 1994 or 1995, asking them to get rid of all the dead wood. Over the years, through periodically scolding, begging, cajoling and prodding the city to do something, the result to date has been a big fat nada— nothing has ever been done!

Now that SDG&E is going to ruin the rest of the drive along Camino Capistrano,

it seems time for someone to try again and scream louder. I am much too ladylike to use words like atrocious, outrageous, hideous, etc., so I won’t do that, but please, let’s do something about this. No one is asking for a Garden of Eden here; let’s just get rid of the dead wood!

I understand that the city will be making a wonderful park on the south end of the property, the first step being to replace half of the shrubbery. What about all of the dead wood as a first step?

By the way, I was privileged a while ago to be taken on a tour of the area (many awful vistas) but does everyone know that there is a low, black, rocky waterfall spilling into a fairly large and peaceful pond there? Very beautiful!

I think this would be the best investment San Juan could make in encouraging visitors. And one last thought—I am told that citrus trees make good saleable firewood.

Let’s make 2017 the year to get this done.

THANK YOU, VOTERS OF CAPISTRANO UNIFIED —John Alpay, Former Capistrano Unified Trustee, Area 3 When I was first elected as Trustee for Capistrano Unified, my oldest daughter, Autumn, had just entered kindergarten, my daughter Saige was new to preschool and my wife and I still measured the age of

our son, Logan, in months.

As I now leave office, Autumn is at Bernice Ayers Middle School and Saige and Logan are well into their tenure at Las Palmas Elementary School. After two terms of office, I am grateful and thankful for having had the opportunity to serve.

For those who remember, my first election into office was during a period of instability for Capistrano Unified after three sets of recalls. While the slate I was a part of did not win a majority of the seats, Trustees Gary Pritchard, Lynn Hatton-Hodson and I did something unexpected by working “across the aisle” with Trustees Anna Bryson and Jack Brick. I am proud to say that the five of us were successful in ending the corrosive discord and returning attention to classroom instruction. Back then with negative press written about Capistrano Unified on a near daily basis, an early metric of Board success was how often we were not mentioned in the Orange County Register.

Having returned focus back on education, the district achieved noteworthy things, including creating educational opportunities for all students. With the help of San Clemente resident Thalia Tong, the board created what I consider to be the greatest achievement reached while I was in office: Orange County’s first and only successful public Mandarin Immersion Program. This program was ultimately recognized with an award by the Orange County Business Council. And during the same period, Capistrano Unified received, reviewed and approved more charter school applications than any other school district in Orange County.

Fiscal management was another area of success. With Capistrano Unified subject to Sacramento’s chronic underfunding, Mello-Roos is a fact of life in many parts of South Orange County. With interest rates at historical lows, the Board refinanced existing bond obligations, saving taxpayers $81.1 million without reducing any facilities funding to our schools. This kind of responsible management led to the Orange County Taxpayers Association nominating CUSD for the coveted Rose Award.

My decision not to seek another term in Capistrano Unified and move on to other adventures was the right move for me.

Instead of focusing on education policy, it will be on the education of my three children. One immediate benefit will be the lack of board functions and more time for my children’s volleyball and soccer games.

After some time, perhaps, I will seek to serve again, but for now I thank the voters of CUSD for the amazing experiences and for allowing me the opportunity to serve.

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

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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

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EDITORIAL

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SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Victor Carno Debra Holm Tim Trent

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 14, 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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GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

EDITOR’S PICK

Photo: Courtesy

MONDAY, DEC. 26: SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO ELF CRAWL 2-11 p.m. Elves in full attire stop by San Juan Capistrano businesses throughout the afternoon for happy hour and food specials during the sixth annual Elf Crawl. All you need to do to participate is show up in elf gear (at least a hat, but a full wardrobe would be celebrated).

The crawl is family- and pet-friendly. Stops include 3:16 Bakery, Hennessey’s, Selma’s, Sundried Tomato, Rancho Capistrano Winery and The Swallow’s Inn. Visit www.facebook. com/events/1747358622253632 for a full schedule.

The List

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

Friday | 23 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 WINTER FEST 2-11 p.m. The annual Winter First continues at OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa. There will be ice tubing, light displays, tree lighting ceremonies, bounce houses, the world’s largest walkthrough ornament, a snow play area and more. Tickets start at $15 for adults, $10 for children. Kids under 3 are free to enter. The festival runs through Jan. 1.

88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. 714.855.1187. www.winterfestoc.com.

BUBBLES AND BRUSHES 5:30 p.m. Sip champagne and follow step-by-step painting instructions to create your masterpiece. This class will feature a holiday-themed painting. Monarch Beach Resort. One Monarch Beach Resort N., Dana Point. 949.234.3200. www.visitdanapoint.org.

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Saturday | 24 SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 1-6 p.m. The Fulltones entertain guests with live music on Christmas Eve. The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www. swallowsinn.com.

Sunday | 25 CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel’s renowned Christmas Day Buffet includes salads, soups, meats, vegetables, desserts and more. Reservations are $115 per adult, and $57.50 per child. Reservations are requested. One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www. visitdanapoint.org.

Monday | 26 CHANUKAH MENORAH LIGHTING ON THE PIER 4 p.m. Join Chabad of San Clemente for the lighting of a 10-foot menorah on the San Clemente Pier. There will be local dignitaries, fire and police chiefs, hot latkes, doughnuts, music, wild balloon hats, coffee, dreidels and gelt. The first 100 participants also get a free beanie.

949.489.0723. www.jewishsc.com.

FREE GUITAR LESSONS 5-6 p.m. Free beginner level acoustic www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT guitar lessons for middle school to college age youth every Monday. Guitars provided or students can bring their own. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

Tuesday | 27 OCEAN INSTITUTE TIDE POOL HIKE 1 p.m. Join the Ocean Institute and one of their marine experts on a hike into a rocky Marine Protected Area. Hikers will be able to see crabs, snails, sea stars and other animals as winter is the best month to view tide pool creatures. The hike is suitable for children and adults, and tickets cost $10. A hike will also be held Friday, Dec. 30. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute. org/event/tidepool-hikes.

Wednesday | 28 FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB 2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French Flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.

LIVE MUSIC: CALIFIA STONES 7-10:30 p.m. Listen to live music from Califia Stones at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S 9:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s with food and drink specials.

There will be local and professional talent.

2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente.

949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

Saturday | 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE BROADWAY TIME 6-9:30 p.m. Party with 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.

At the Movies: ‘Rogue One’ is Only for the Fans

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

R

ogue One is the first film in the Star Wars universe to be a stand-alone feature that doesn’t take place in the Skywalker storyline. When the movie was first announced, there was a mix of hesitation and curiosity: it sounded like it

Comedian Tom Riehl will also perform.

A champagne toast will be conducted when the 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.

THE DISH

RISOTTO AT GUICHO’S EATERY

F

MASQUERADE BALL AT IVA LEE’S 6:30 p.m.-1 a.m. There will be live music from Adrianna Marie and her Groovecutters from 6:30-10:30 p.m., followed by DJ Skylar from 11 p.m.-1 a.m. There will be a special prix fixe three-course menu.

Cost is $55 for early seating, $65 for late seating, and $85 per seat in the lounge.

Admission includes the dinner, beads and a feathered mask. Reservations are requested. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

COA NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY 7 p.m. Join the Community Outreach Alliance and like-minded individuals for a sober New Year’s Eve celebration at The Venue. 1050 Calle Negocio, San Clemente.

949.388.0114. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

NEW YEAR’S PRIX FIXE DINNER AT BARNOA 7 p.m.-midnight. Ring in the new year with a special prix fixe dinner service, a bottle of sparkling wine for each couple, dancing and live music from Key of Whiskey—all included in the $85 ticket price. Call or visit the bar to snag your ticket. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente. 949.

388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 8 p.m. Ring in the New Year with entertainment and festivities at The Swallow’s Inn. There will be live music from The Fulltones, and the $20 ticket ($25 at the door) includes party favors, a champagne toast at midnight and midnight snacks. Call or stop in before the event for an advance ticket as space is limited. The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

ittingly, Guicho’s risotto looks like a winter wonderland. Rolling hills of white are pocked by green asparagus pines and mushroom boulders. From on high, flecks of black pepper look like people, and strands of rice stand out as snow rippled by the wind.

Of course, risotto is a classic wintertime dish. The indulgent cream sauce and carboloaded rice base warms the body and soul.

The consistency is easy to mess up—put the rice in too long and you’re getting chewy rice; put in too much liquid and you’re getting soup.

What’s so endearing about Guicho’s is not only do they nail Michelin-level risotto, but their take-out style service means it’s served in an everyman’s white box.

White wine added sweetness to the cream sauce, while parmesan cheese added salt and richness. Basic button mushrooms were

Guicho’s Eatery.

440 Camino De Estrella, San Clemente. 949.248.1910 1110 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.481.1070 www.guichos.com

Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

29. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente.

949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY AT OC TAVERN 9 p.m. Head down to the OC Tavern for a free New Year’s Eve party featuring music from DJ Van. This event is for those 21 and older. OC Tavern. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.542.8877. www.octavern.com.

Saturday | 07

Sunday | 01 SAN CLEMENTE POLAR BEAR DIP 8:30 a.m. The annual New Year’s tradition of jumping into chilly water takes place again at Lost Winds Beach in San Clemente. Participants of all ages can jump in and out, or take a swim around Seal Rock.

2004 Calle De Los Alamos, San Clemente.

Tuesday | 03

LIVE MUSIC: LOS LOBOS 8 p.m. Listen to live music from Los Lobos at The Coach House. Tickets are $95. 33157

OPEN CASA: SHANE TOWLEY 6-8 p.m. View work from and meet Shane Towley at Casa Romantica. Towley is a painter and gallerist who has opened a total of seven galleries on both coasts.

His work will be on display through Jan.

could be just another cash-grab, but it was also intriguing given the amount of interesting people involved with the project Radical Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones) was forced to be separated and orphaned from her father Galen (Mads Mikkelsen) by The Empire when they imprisoned him for betrayal, until one day the Rebel Alliance recruits Jyn to track down her father to make sure he isn’t still helping The Empire.

Meanwhile, Jyn, rebel officer Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), pilot Bodhi Rook (Riz Ahmed), droid K-2SO (Alan Tudyk), and warriors Chirrut Îmwe (Donnie Yen) and Baze Malbus (Jiang Wen) are also secretly

planning to steal the Empire’s plans for the Death Star.

Rogue One is one of a few Dirty Dozen-type films to be released this year; it’s probably the best, but unfortunately that’s not saying much. While the film is arguably the bestlooking Star Wars piece to date, it also suffers from a weak script. Jones and Luna are a great pair, but the new droid is too similar to C-3PO. The special effects are amazing, and director Gareth Edwards knows what to do with a big budget, but it still has stale dialogue and awkward callbacks to the original 1977 film. As predicted, Rogue One is only a must-watch for diehard fans. CD

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

quartered and added earthiness that permeated throughout the dish. Hearty asparagus, chopped into bite-sized pieces, brought more terroir and a much-needed pop.

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START THE YEAR OFF RIGHT HIKE 7:30-10 a.m. Start your year off with a guided nature hike at the Rancho Mission Viejo Reserve. Ages 10 and up. Tickets are $10 per adult, $5 per child. Reserve your spot ahead of time. 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

ABSTRACT PAINTING WORKSHOP 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This two-day abstract painting workshop runs Saturday and Sunday with teacher Elaine Cohen. The instruction is tailored to students’ experience and interest, and includes options for medium, style, colors, blending and more. Visual and text references will help guide students. Cost is $250 per student. San Clemente Art Supply.

1531 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente.

949.369.6603. www.scartsupply.com.

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.

Photo: Jonathan Olley/©2016 Lucasfilm Ltd

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Santa Claus Rolls into Town Rotarians and students bring holiday cheer to hundreds of kids PHOTOS AND TEXT BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

anta and Mrs. Claus greeted hundreds of local kids on Dec. 17 at the San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club’s annual Santa’s Visit at Marco Forster Middle School. Santa Claus, played by local volunteer Alan Weddle, and Mrs. Claus, played by Martha Orozco, greeted a crowd of wide-eyed children waving and cheering.

Sponsored by the Rotary Club, the holiday event is in its 27th year and included more than 100 student volunteers from Capistrano Valley Christian Schools, San Juan Hills High School and Marco Forster Middle School, including students from

(Right) Snow at Mission San Juan Capistrano on Jan. 10, 1949. Photo: Courtesy of San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. (Above) Cloudy skies (and not a snowflake in sight) above Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

GUEST OPINION: Then & Now by Rhonda deHaan

Snow Dazed

How a rare sprinkling of snow transformed San Juan into a winter wonderland

A

lthough children enjoyed an evening playing in the snow as part of the holiday festivities at the Mission a few weeks ago, the very idea of seeing snow blanketing the landscape seems completely ludicrous to those of us living in San Juan Capistrano.

In a region where January can feel more like June and rainfall expectations are a meager third of the country’s average, snow is unthinkable. However, in early January of 1949, that is exactly what the residents saw. And, once heavy coats were donned and gloves dug out from the back of drawers, residents ventured out to take in the picturesque scene.

Having rained continuously for several days, bitter cold struck the area and the snowfall continued for three days over much of Southern California. The foothills surrounding our town were topped with several inches of snow for a week, and residents of the southland were able to gather enough of the white stuff for brief snowball fights and even try their hand at

making snowmen.

But after some time, the realities of daily living inevitably sank in.

Without snow plows or other equipment to deal with the icy conditions, traffic snarled and some roads were closed. As it THEN & NOW

By Rhonda turned out, that winter deHaan was one of the coldest in recorded history.

This week, we’ve had a particularly warm first day of winter, chilly nights that compel us to bundle up and light a fire, gusty Santa Ana winds, and the need to keep an umbrella at hand. Who says Southern California weather is boring?

It is, however, unlikely that we will wake up to snowflakes falling on Christmas morning. But you never know… this is a magical time of year.

Happy Holidays!

Rhonda deHaan has lived in San Juan Capistrano only 10 years but has quickly embraced the town. She is a proud mother of two, a freelance writer, an SJC Friends of the Library board director, and is currently serving her sixth year on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission. 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.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

Santa Claus, played by local volunteer Alan Weddle, greets an awestruck crowd with Mrs. Claus, played

by Martha Orozco.

programs such as PAL (Peer Assistance Leadership), AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination) and Interact Club, which is sponsored by the Rotary Club.

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.

Mike Darnold, Rotary Club’s Youth Services leader and Dana Hills High School intervention specialist, said Rotary Club is an inclusive group that works on getting as many youth involved in the community as possible.

“These are good kids doing good things,” Darnold said. CD

Hundreds of local children and their parents attended the San Juan Capistrano Rotary’s annual Santa’s Visit at Marco Forster Middle School on Dec. 17.

Annika Willumsen, 7, and Venice Giles, 7, both of San Juan Capistrano, pose with their handmade Christmas ornaments.

Page 14

Hundreds of local children and their parents attended the San Juan Capistrano Rotary’s annual Santa’s Visit at Marco Forster Middle School on Dec. 17.

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SJC LIVING

Rocking Out on ‘A Not So Silent Night’ Los Rios Rock School treats visitors to original holiday show THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

here was drama, intrigue, and yes, a whole lot of rock ‘n roll, at Los Rios Rock School’s original holiday musical, “A Not So Silent Night.”

Shows spanned two weekends in December, with each performance starting as a battle of the bands at ‘The Lobby’ at Los Rios Rock School—prime real estate in San Juan Capistrano. Shortly into the show, the rock students find out that a big coffee franchise is looking to shut down the school and turn it into another coffee shop.

(Spoiler alert: they may have persuaded “the suits” from the coffee franchise to let them stay through song and a little bit of

Rock school student Jordan McFadden, of Dana Point, performs in the school’s holiday show.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

Christmas magic.)

Thirty of the school’s advanced students and instructors rehearsed for months to prepare for the theatrical show, which incorporated famous holiday hits from bands such as The Kinks, The Drifters, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Mariah Carey (to name a few). The musical, which was a collaboration between writer Nick Cagle and the rock school’s director of curriculum, Dr. Clinton Haycraft, marked the first time the school has added theatrical elements to one of its shows.

For information on the rock school’s future shows, visit www.losriosrockschool.com or follow @losriosrockschool on Facebook.

Rock school students Jenna Vogeler, of Laguna Niguel; Taylor Hopper, of San Clemente; and Jordan McFadden, of Dana Point, perform in the school’s holiday show. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Los Rios Rock School instructors Erin Blagdon, of Irvine, and Morgan Mallory, of Costa Mesa, perform during the holiday show. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Page 15

Rock school students Austin Jenner, of Dana Point; Will Weiss, of San Juan Capistrano; and Emma Hattesohl, of Aliso Viejo, perform in the school’s holiday show. Photo: Allison Jarrell

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SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths by Jim Kempton

Keeping the Holidays Jolly: There’s a Reason for Everything

O

ne of our favorite holiday traditions is the family outing to see A Christmas Carol in the South Coast Repertory Theater at the Performing Arts Center in Costa Mesa. The whole brood goes, all our kids, the aunt and uncle and assorted friends of the family who often take up half a row in the little theater. The kids still love it, even though they have kids of their own now and knew the story by heart from before they could read.

We have been enjoying this ritual for 22 years now, and if nothing else it is delightful suspense to see if the masterful Hal Landon (who plays Scrooge with Oscar-worthy grace) will actually be able to somersault onto his bed, into his top hat and land triumphant on the other side.

We always try to go early in December because once we walk out of the theater in the crisp winter air, visions of a Christmas goose and ghosts and goodwill ringing in our heads, it just seems like the holiday

season has really arrived.

For those who are more circumspect about all this hoopla we surround Christmas with, I offer seven reminders we should be thankful for during the holiday seaWAVELENGTHS son. And for those overBy Jim Kempton sensitive folks, I’m not ruining Christmas—the recommendations are tongue-in-cheek.

Don’t scorn all the frantic consumerism.

Serious shoppers don’t think of Christmas as a stressful effort to get loved ones something meaningful; they think of it as a boot camp for the January department store sales.

Enjoy the kids! Gifts of love come in the most unsuspecting ways. One of the clearest signs that my children are still dedicated to the family’s holiday cheer is that they come unsolicited to help us put

the Christmas lights up on the roof.

Don’t begrudge Christmas carols and holiday packaging in stores before Halloween. It is a national duty to keep the economy safe for democracy. Nearly 20 percent of consumer spending is done during the month of December. So our businesses are just exercising wealth redistribution to the less fortunate months.

It’s better to receipt. Many of the presents we get at Christmas are things we neither need nor want. But there is no need for disdain. Keep the faith, keep the cup of kindness and keep all the receipts for returning gifts on Dec 26.

Thank the fruitcake. Consider the item as a dietary assistance program. Be glad that you get those disgusting fruitcakes for Christmas—it is the only time in all of December when you won’t eat something unnecessary.

Grow old gracefully. In the spirit of Saint

Nicholas, accept the fact that there are three stages to a man’s Christmas experience in life—when he believes in Santa, when he stops believing in Santa and when he becomes Santa.

Prepare for the price for love. They say the holidays have magic in the air, but not all of it is benign. If you don’t believe Christmas is a magical time of the year, just check your bank statement in January and watch the disappearing act that takes place.

Jim Kempton is a San Clemente writer and surfer who knows he is getting old when none of the things he wants for Christmas come in wrapped packages or are bought in a store. 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.

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

Three Senior Single Wom- Sudoku en Looking Ahead to 2017

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:

W

ith 2016 coming to a close, three senior single women share their thoughts on dating, relationships and life as they look ahead to 2017.

Jane wrote, “While I still enjoy your column after several years, I’m not seriously into looking for a mate these days. After a long marriage to a controlling man, I’m enjoying putting myself first for once in my life.

“While I’m open to men, I don’t think I want to hang my happiness on anyone else’s hook. I’m busy with preschool grandchildren I watch full-time, and various clubs. I don’t want the stress of the hunt, and I feel bad for women who feel they have no self-esteem unless they are in a relationship.

“I’ve had my health problems, as we all have, and don’t want to be a caretaker for someone I don’t have a lifetime invested in. I wouldn’t want someone new to be my caretaker, either.

“So, these days I read the column more than respond to it, but appreciate all your efforts, and the time you spend trying to help other people be happy.”

Mary Lou from South Orange County isn’t concerned about dating in 2017.

Instead, she is occupied with where she might choose to live.

One son lives in Denver with his wife and two young daughters. They would love to have her move to be near them.

Mary Lou has lived in the Denver area before and loves what she calls “the Denver

vibe.” She will be with them in Denver over the Christmas holidays.

But, she has another son who lives in San Diego with his wife and three of Mary Lou’s grandchildren. She doesn’t see them as often ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 as she would like.

By Tom Blake Mary Lou works at home using Skype so she can live wherever she chooses and still retain her job.

Mary Lou said, “When my Denver son kept asking me to move to Denver, I began to feel like one of those people in those stories where they keep looking one way for something, and yet, if they would just look over their shoulder in the other direction, there would be the answer! Know what I mean?

“I have friends in Orange County through my water aerobics class and my book discussion groups at the library. I am a bit limited physically because of severe arthritis in my knee, and I am looking at knee replacement, probably this next year. Otherwise, I appear to be pretty healthy, lucky me.

“I will do a pros-and-cons-of-moving list after I return from this latest Denver visit.

I even had a couple of romances in Denver and am very attracted to a church there.”

In Mary Lou’s case, her biggest challenge in 2017 will be deciding to move or

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

to stay put. She said, “There are so many weekends that I am wishing to be with my grandkids. Dating and seeking a mate will have to wait.”

Shelley, San Diego, emailed, “I have no trouble meeting men. But mostly they are unacceptable to me. I am a widow of almost three years and nine months.

After losing my husband, I began dating. I joined two dating sites, met a married man and many losers.

“I am financially secure, healthy, fit and attractive. A retired teacher. I do volunteer work and have many friends. I have a lot to offer but I am soon going to be giving up looking for a relationship!”

For 2017, I urge singles to be optimistic and to pursue life with a positive attitude.

And to remember this: Being single isn’t so bad. Over the years, women readers have shared their reasons why: One said, “I’ve been married and unhappy and single and unhappy, and single and unhappy is better because I can more

Page 16

easily do something about my situation.”

By that, she meant she can get out and involved in activities she enjoys. But when you’re married and unhappy, to get out means going through the divorce trainwreck first.

Another woman said, “Why should I live with a man? I already have a job.”

A third added, “I never knew true happiness until I remarried, but then it was too late.” Whatever path you choose in 2017, be happy.

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. 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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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

JUNE

Cohen Slams His Way into CWS History • JSerra graduate Sam Cohen made national headlines by belting a walk-off grand slam in the bottom of the ninth inning to send the University of California Santa Barbara baseball team past No. 2-seeded Louisville in the NCAA College World Series super regionals.

Trailblazer Kendall Stier Wins Seated Shot Put Title • Saddleback Valley Christian’s Kendall Stier, who has cerebral palsy, made history by winning the CIF State Championship in the seated shot put event on June 4. Stier’s throw of 10-feet-11.25inches was a new state record.

JULY The San Juan Hills High School surf team captured its fourth consecutive Scholastic Surf Series State Championship title this season. Photo: Courtesy

Fowler Named MLL All-Star • JSerra boys lacrosse coach Brendan Fowler was named a Major League Lacrosse All-Star for a second consecutive season and played in the league’s All-Star game at Cal State Fullerton on July 9.

San Juan Capistrano Sports & Outdoors Year in Review COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he 2016 calendar year was filled with notable San Juan Capistrano sports moments. From historic high school sports performances, to locals being crowned champion surfers, it was a year to remember.

Here is a look back at some of the defining sports moments of 2016.

JANUARY

Skvarna Competes in World Longboarding Championships • Kevin Skvarna, a senior at San Juan Hills High School, earned a berth in the World Surf League’s Jeep World Longboarding Championships in Hainan Island, China following a standout performance at a qualifying competition in Huntington Beach.

AUGUST

semifinals of the CIF-SS Division 5A playoffs and the first round of the Division 5 State Championships.

MARCH

JSerra Reaches Boras Baseball Classic Final • Host-team JSerra went on a tear during the Boras Classic baseball tournament, defeating some of the top teams in the Southland en route to appearing in the championship game. The Lions lost to Mira Costa, 2-1, in the southern championship.

APRIL

Edgerton Returns to the Field • San Juan Hills High School senior football player Noah Edgerton made his return to the field on Aug. 26 following a year-long battle with synovial cell sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that attaches to soft muscle tissue. Edgerton played a crucial role on the defensive line for the Stallions, who went 7-4 overall and reached the CIF-SS Division 3 playoffs.

SEPTEMBER

Henjum Erupts in Record-Breaking Performance • In one of the more impressive prep football performances of the season,

Saddleback Valley Christian senior quarterback Cade Henjum accounted for 618 yards of total offense and six touchdowns in a 5240 loss to Boron on Sept. 30. Henjum went on to have a season for the ages, throwing for 3,613 yards and 41 touchdowns. He also ran for 1,267 yards and 20 touchdowns.

OCTOBER

The Kitchen Gets Cooking • Student cheering sections became a phenomenon in the high school football world this season, and a large group of St. Margaret’s Episcopal students, known as The Kitchen, made its presence felt at Tartan home games. The Kitchen, which had weekly themes throughout the season, once sent over 100 students on rooter buses to a game in San Diego County, showing just how much spirit they have.

NOVEMBER

Stallions Water Polo Has Cinderella Season • After failing to win a Sea View League game since joining the league, the San Juan Hills High School boys volleyball team made a storybook run in 2016, finishing in a tie for first in league and charging all the way to the CIF-SS Division 5 championship game, where they lost to Burroughs 12-7.

DECEMBER

Harlow Named Head Coach of JSerra Football • Longtime offensive line coach Pat Harlow was named the new head coach of the JSerra Catholic football team on Dec. 15, replacing longtime coach Jim Hartigan, who built the program up over the past 10 seasons. Harlow had served as the Lions’ offensive line coach for three seasons before landing the head coaching gig.

Stallions Surf Team Crowned State Champs • The San Juan Hills High School surf team bested the field in Oceanside to win the Scholastic Surf Series Inland Division State Championship for a fourth consecutive year on April 17.

FEBRUARY

SJC Athletes Sign NLIs • All five high schools in San Juan Capistrano held signing day ceremonies for student-athletes that would be signing their National Letters of Intent and take their talents to the collegiate level. In all, 29 local studentathletes signed NLIs on Feb. 3.

Eagles, Warriors Hoops Teams Run Wild in Playoffs • Both the Saddleback Valley Christian and Capistrano Valley Christian boys basketball programs made deep playoff pushes in 2016. The Warriors reached the CIF-SS Division 5AA semifinals for the second time in three years and advanced to the CIF State Division 5 Championship regional semifinals. CVCS reached the

MAY

Tartans Magic Run Ends in OC LAX Championships • Despite a fourth-quarter scoring barrage, the St. Margaret’s boys lacrosse team was upended by Corona del Mar 11-9 in the US Lacrosse Orange County Championship game on May 11.

Warriors Volleyball Dominates in Postseason • The Saddleback Valley Christian boys volleyball team made an historic run through the 2016 postseason, capturing both the CIF-SS Division 4 Championship and the CIF State Division 3 Championship. The Warriors’ CIF-SS title was its fourth in a row, which tied a southern section record.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 23, 2016-January 12, 2017

The Saddleback Valley Christian boys volleyball team won the CIF-SS Division 4 Championship and the CIF State Division 3 Championship in 2016. Photo: Courtesy

Page 18

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