The Capistrano Dispatch

A P R I L 2 7– M AY 1 0, 2 0 1 2VOLUME 10, ISSUE 8

Actress, Producer Rita Wilson takes up Singing

at the Coach HouseGETTING OUT/PAGE 16

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

Elementary school girls practice ballet folklorico, which is offered through San Juan Capistrano’s recreation courses. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

While SDG&E Reaches out to Public on Upgrades, Protestors Raise Concerns

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 4

INSIDE:

Check Out Our Tri-City Guide to

Summer Fun

Up and at ‘Em Summertime

ActivitiesWhen school lets out, options abound for kids and parents

THE LATEST: A magnitude 3.9 earthquake rocked south Orange County at 10:37 a.m. Monday.

The United States Geological Survey reported quake’s epicenter was 1.4 miles west-southwest of San Juan Capistrano at a depth of 3.6 kilometers.

No damage was reported from sur-rounding cities or the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station.

According to Bill Bryant, senior engi-neering geologist for the California Geo-logical Survey, the quake was triggered by the San Joaquin Hills thrust, which lies along the coast from Newport Mesa to Dana Point. The fault is similar to the type of blind thrust fault that triggered the Northridge, San Fernando Valley quake nearly two decades ago, he said.

WHAT’S NEXT: “We believe the fault has the potential to produce a quake in the range of magnitude 6.7 to 7,” Bryant said.

City and county authorities advised resi-dents that the temblor should serve as a reminder to get prepared for earthquakes and other emergencies.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.thecapistrano-dispatch.com. — Andrea Swayne

What’s Up With...S A N J U A N C A P I S T R A N O ’ S T O P 5 H O T T E S T T O P I C S

…Monday’s Earthquake?1

1LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTINGEYE ON SJC

www.thecapistranodispatch.comThe Capistrano Dispatch April 27–May 10, 2012

... SDG&E’s Upgrades?2THE LATEST: An open house to showcase San Diego Gas & Electric’s planned up-grades in San Juan Capistrano also drew a handful of protestors concerned about the effects of the project on the neighborhood.

The utility plans to raze its 1920s sub-station at Camino Capistrano and Calle Bonita and replace it with two buildings of up to 50 feet in height, to upgrade its

...Changes at City Hall?5THE LATEST: Principal Planner Bill Ramsey, a 21-year city employee, has been named the Assistant Development Services Director. His duties will include overseeing the city’s historic-preservation program, and Ramsey’s appointment calmed local historians concerned when the city announced it was not fi lling the historic preservation manager post.

In another City Hall change, City Engi-neer and Public Works Director Nasser Abbaszadeh was let go from his post last month. City offi cials cannot discuss personnel issues. Abbaszadeh was earning more than $200,000 annually.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city has not an-nounced if it will fi ll Abbaszadeh’s job. Sam Shoucair is acting Public Works Director.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.sanjuancapist-rano.org —Jonathan Volzke

… School Cuts?3THE LATEST: Faced with a funding gap of $30 million to $50 million in the next fi s-cal year, the Capistrano School’s Board of Trustees started taking more unpopular cost-cutting steps this week.

Already, the district has notifi ed 362 teachers their jobs may be cut, and Wednesday night the board voted to put another 167.5 classifi ed employees at

… Rail Crossing Delays?4THE LATEST: Residents and city offi cials are questioning the need for safety modifi cations at the Del Obispo Street railroad crossing, after the installation of a special signal has caused frustrating traffi c delays.

The City Council took the Orange County Transportation Authority to task April 10, asking what could be done to modify or completely remove the signals, called queue cutters, at the crossing.

“The people who are stopped by those lights are all on their phones right now calling us and screaming at us,” said Councilwoman Laura Freese.

Residents questioned the need for any safety enhancements.

“I’ve never observed car accidents or people being run over. I just question

Page 3

SAN CLEMENTESouthern California Edison wrapped up its

inspections of the steam generator tubes at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station,

the utility company informed the Nuclear Regulatory Commission last week.

But news of the completed inspections came as the power plant disclosed a small electrical

fi re in a non-nuclear part had been extin-guished Friday, April 20. No one was injured in the blaze, but SCE did declare an “unusual event,” the lowest of four regulatory declara-

tions. Both Unit 2 and Unit 3 at the power plant have been offl ine since January. After

discovering premature wear, investigators had been testing the tubes and generators to

pinpoint the cause of the problems.The NRC has said it will not allow SCE to

return its reactors to service until satisfi ed the safety of the plant is ensured.

NEWS NEXT DOOR

DANA POINTA Superior Court judge on Friday denied Surfrider Foundation’s motion to fi nd the City of Dana Point in contempt for refusing to allow 24-hour beach access through two gates at the Strand at Headlands neighborhood while awaiting the city’s court of appeals hear-ing on the matter. Surfrider attorney Angela Howe said her organization is disappointed by court’s decision because the public will be de-nied maximum access to Strand Beach while awaiting the appeal. City Attorney Patrick Munoz called the decision vindication that, in essence, confi rms Dana Point has been acting in a fair and lawful manner with regard to maintaining the gates and enforcing nighttime closure hours. The decision means the gates and posted hours will remain in place until the city’s appeal is heard; most likely some time late this summer or fall.

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING

TOWNS1every level in the district on notice that their jobs could also be nixed at the end of the school year.

The funding gap resulted, in part, from reductions in the state budget and the loss of one-time federal funds, said district spokesman Marcus Walton.

Dozens of classifi ed workers, who donned black to show their solidarity, pleaded with the trustees to maintain their positions.

“There’s still time to dig deep and look further,” said Kim Jensen, who works at San Juan Hills High School.

WHAT’S NEXT: The budget gap could be smaller if one of the two tax initiatives to support schools passes in the November election.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.danapoint-times.com for updates.—Stacie N. Galang

transmission lines and swap out existing towers with taller steel structures.

But protestor Clint Worthington had problems with the higher voltage lines and the project’s potential to increase electromagnetic fi elds. He preferred SDG&E place the lines underground and questioned the need to increase trans-mission line capacity.

Despite the protestors, overall feed-back from the dozens of residents who attended was positive, SDG&E spokes-man Duane Cave said. He would have preferred naysayers come inside and ask questions of the experts inside.

Jim Turman, a project manager in SDG&E’s safety services department, said the company worked to reduce elec-tromagnetic fi elds in its designs where possible.

But Mayor Larry Kramer said he left with questions like why SDG&E hadn’t offered alternatives to the project, why the size had to be so big and why lines couldn’t be placed underground.

WHAT’S NEXT: Cave said SDG&E will fi le its plans with the state’s public utility commission in early May.

FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.sdge.com/southcounty. —Stacie N. Galang

why the City Council years ago would even decide to do this,” said Frank Dohn, an 18-year resident attending his fi rst council meeting in more than a decade.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city now wants to determine whether the addition of queue cutters at Del Obispo was called for at the time the agreement was signed. OCTA Deputy CEO Darrell Johnson insisted they were.

He told the council they would have to seek approval from the California Public Utilities Commission to remove the queue cutters but warned that it was a lengthy process.

FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.thecapistrano-dispatch.com. —Brian Park

www.thecapistranodispatch.comThe Capistrano Dispatch April 27–May 10, 2012 Page 4

EYE ON SJCUp and at ‘em Summertime Activities

ummertime, and the living’s easy? Not necessarily for the thousands

of kids who take up any one of the re-gion’s diverse summer camps or dive into the city’s recreation activities, which are chock full of options from outdoor adven-tures and folk dancing to Lego engineering and performing arts.

While there’s nothing wrong with down-time, today’s campers take advantage of the summer months for pursuits that pique their imagination, challenge their athletic skills and get them exploring.

“We’re looking for fun things to do that the kids will enjoy,” said San Clemente’s Recreation Manager Pamela Passow. “It’s about really having a great time with your friends.”

The programs reflect their community. San Juan Capistrano’s summer recreation features sports, equestrian and unique ballet folklorico courses. San Clemente’s programs range from adventure to surf and ensure children keep active. Dana Point gives participants the chance to be creative and hone their skills.

UNIQUE CAPISTRANO San Juan Capistrano’s summer pro-

grams will begin June 15 and continue through September 15, said Cynthia Alex-ander, community services manager.

Alexander said the city tries to keep programs family oriented. Courses range from about $65 to $150. Consider the four-week, basic horsemanship course, which costs $40 and is offered through the Ortega Equestrian Center.

“It’s very reasonable for the children here in San Juan,” Alexander said. “It re-ally is a very good program.”

She said the city tries to strike the bal-ance between offering programs residents will find enjoyable and keeping the costs to a minimum to encourage participation.

“We try to meet the needs of the com-munity basically so we’re able to provide the service so people don’t have to go outside the community,” Alexander said. “Right now I know that we are working on a very tight budget.”

San Juan offers classes for ballet, ballet folklorico and sports like basketball and basic equestrian skills, among dozens of others. Adults can get into the action with the popular ballroom dancing.

“Dancing is really big right now,” said Gloria Ruelas, who’s overseeing San Juan’s registration. “That’s why our dance classes are kind of booming.”

By Andrea Swayne and Stacie Galang The Capistrano Dispatch

When school lets out, options abound for kids and parents.

San Juan had signups of 116 participants in 2011 summer classes, according to Ruelas. The city contracts out most of its classes to keep costs down, and receives a percentage of the revenue to cover added expenses.

Marcella Moreno, program director of Ballet Folklorico of San Juan Capistrano, helped start the dance program 22 years ago that pays homage to the native dances of Mexico. With the help of then librarian Jose Aponte and Al King, the city’s former recreational manager, the program was born.

“We put together a program and a bud-get, and it just took off,” Moreno said.

In addition to teaching students the intricacies of dance, the courses also teach self-esteem and team work, she said. The program draws from schools throughout the city, giving participants the chance to meet new friends.

Teens, who started in the program, now lead the courses year round, she said. The dancers have become fixtures at San Juan events, including the Swallows Day Parade. Hundreds of girls and boys from Capistrano have clicked their dance shoes, fanned their dresses and entertained audi-ences from the grassroots dance program.

“We’ve been competing for about our 10th year,” Moreno said.

HEALTHY HABITSIn San Clemente, the Beaches, Parks

and Recreation Department features more than 40 different types of summer camps and dozens of sessions, depending upon the activity.

San Clemente’s Active Adventure Sum-mer Camp, for example, is a daily camp offered every week from late June to the end of August and gets participants out of the house and into the water, onto the hiking trails or around the neighborhood for a stop at the local fire station.

“I think it’s really promoting a healthy environment for kids to have in the sum-mer that’s active and fun,” Passow said. “It’s fun. That’s the big thing. It’s not a

place for kids to be dropped off. It’s a place for children to have a great experi-ence, learning new skills and meeting new friends.”

Last summer, 3,258 children partici-pated in San Clemente’s summer camps, and already nearly 400 have signed up so far this year, according to Passow. One participant came from as far as Texas to enroll in the city’s performing arts camp, which will put on Little Mermaid Junior this summer, Passow said.

With the addition of Vista Hermosa Sports Park, San Clemente’s aquatics programs can multiply to not only the tra-ditional summer swim courses but also to camp specialties like synchronized swim and guard-in-training camp, which is simi-lar to the city’s junior lifeguard program but for municipal pools.

“The amenities are vast, and so we’re able to offer programs we were not nor-mally able to,” Passow said.

Jeanie Joseph, a San Clemente recre-ational specialist, said the synchronized swim camp she will teach for the first time this summer would be 2 ½ hours of instruction over five days, including a performance on the last day.

“I’m basically putting them through syn-chronized boot camp,” said Joseph, who has performed synchronized swim for 20 years and appeared on television hits like Glee. “They’ll learn a routine to music, and they’ll probably work out muscles they never even knew they had.”

No matter the camp or program, the theme of being active is always part of the routine.

SPARK OF INTERESTDana Point also has a lengthy menu

of summer programs designed to suit its vibrant community of young people, the longest running of which are Abrakadoo-dle art camps and sports related programs by Trifytt. Last year, 600 children signed up for city recreation programs over the summer.

Young artists from 5 to 12 can take part

in Abrakadoodle thematic art enrichment camps. “A Pirate’s Life” camp will focus on art based on the ever-popular pirate theme. With historic tall ships docked at the Harbor and the many pirate-themed activities that are always a part of the annual Tall Ships Festival and Festival of Whales, pirates are big draw for many Dana Point youngsters.

Sports camps by Trifytt include a Basketball Skillz Camp for ages 3 to 12 that teaches technique, tactics, teamwork, sportsmanship and is a great way to pre-pare young athletes for participation in the city’s youth basketball league. Irish Soccer Camp is a popular choice for ages 4 to 14. The camp features Irish coaches and includes a soccer jersey, ball, wristband and certificate for all participants.

New for this summer are the Wilder-ness Adventures and Lego Engineering camps.

Wilderness Adventurers will learn basic camping and outdoor skills with weekly themes like camping survival, wilderness detectives and outdoor chefs. Although focused on camping-related skills, the program is a daytime only camp.

Budding engineers from 5 to 12 years old will enjoy the new Lego Engineering Camp where they can have fun building cities, bridges, motorized vehicles while learning concepts in physics, architecture, structural and mechanical engineering.

“We do our best to assemble the best instructors and quality programs cover-ing many interesting topics that appeal to our wide variety of young residents,” said Dana Point Recreation Supervisor Sherry Murphy.

“We expect the new Lego Engineering Camps will be a big hit with the kids this summer. We’ve heard positive feedback from neighboring cities like San Clemente that offer this program and are pleased to add it to our roster. After all, what kid doesn’t like Lego’s?” said Murphy.

In addition to the special summertime offerings, the city also continues to run its popular year-round classes in dance, music, yoga, karate, gymnastics and more. The city’s dance program with instructor Francina Mans has stood the test of time. Mans has been teaching the award win-ning dance students for over 25 years.

GET GOINGIn Dana Point, registration starts May

7 and summer camp rosters generally fill quickly so Murphy advises parents to plan early and sign up soon, either online at www.danapoint.org/recreation or by stop-ping by the Community Center at 34052 Del Obispo Street.

San Clemente has already started its signups, and residents can look through the program at www.san-clemente.org/recreation.

Courses for San Juan Capistrano are still being finalized, but its Hometown Happen-ings guide, which lists all the course offer-ings, can be found on the city’s website at www.sanjuancapistrano.org. CD

S

Juanita Mendez leads a group of girls in ballet folklorico practice, which is offered through San Juan Capistrano’s recreation courses at the Nydegger Building in the Old Fire Recreation Complex. Photo by Stacie N. Galang


EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITESP R O P S , R E C O G N I T I O N S A N D M O R S E L S O F I N F O

Compiled by Stacie N. Galang

Catholic Bishop Honors Two San Juan Businessmen

Diocese of Orange Bishop Tod D. Brown honored two San Juan Capistrano businessmen Wednesday, April 18 at the Orange Catholic Foundation’s 10th annual Conference on Business and Ethics. Randy Redwitz, president of Robert R. Redwitz & Co and Frank Kavanaugh, managing partner at Fort Ashford Holdings, LLC re-ceived the award for Exemplary Business Integrity.

“Our honorees have risen to promi-nence in their respective fields without cost to their faith or personal integrity,” Brown said. “They have demonstrated that holding true to the values of fairness and honesty can be a gateway to success and not a hindrance; they serve as an inspiration for others.”

The annual Conference on Business and Ethics also serves as a fundraiser for Catholic education in the diocese. The event raised in excess of $150,000, and the Fund a Need segment raised another $120,000 in pledges and gifts.

Yard House CEO Speaks at Shea Center

Along with business success comes a responsibility to give back to the com-munity that helped provide that success. In return, giving back provides its own reward.

That was the theme of Yard House Restaurant’s president and CEO Harald Herrmann’s keynote address at the annual

Business Leaders for Philanthropy Night in San Juan Capistrano. Hosting the April 12 event at the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center were the Orange County alumni associations of the Harvard, Stanford, UC Berkeley, UCI, UCLA and USC business schools.

More than 200 local area business and community leaders met in the Shea Center’s Samueli Arena to network and enjoy food and beverages. Guests had an opportunity to tour the Shea Center facilities and observe a demonstration of therapeutic riding, which is provided annually to over 500 clients with special needs. Also attending were executives of the Orange County and California Restau-rant Association, of which Herrmann is the current president.

The Shea Center is internationally re-spected and considered one of the finest such facilities in the country. It serves rid-ers from every corner of Orange County and beyond with diagnoses such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delay and over 55 other physical and cognitive disabilities.

For more information on the Shea Center, visit www.sheacenter.org or call 949.240.8441 ext. 109.

‘Steel Magnolias’ Arrives at Camino Real Playhouse

Directed by Aidan A. Daguro, Steel Magnolias continues its run at the Camino Real Playhouse through Sunday, May 6. Robert Harling’s 1987 off-Broadway sensation and subsequent film Steel

Have something interesting for the

community? Tell us about awards, events,

happenings, accomplishments and more.

Forward a picture along, too! We’ll put your

submissions into “News Bites.” Send your

information to [email protected].

Magnolias is set in a beauty parlor in Chin-quapin, La. Steel Magnolias illustrates how the lives of six distinctly different women interweave via the small town gossip that shadows the unending cycle of birth, mar-riage and death.

The cast includes Teresa Rogers of Mis-sion Viejo as M’Lynn, Lisa Black of Dana Point as Ouiser, Rina Holden of San Cle-mente as Truvy, Gina Treasure of Mission Viejo as Clairee, Megan Weaver of Irvine as Shelby and Ashley Larson of Mission Viejo as Annelle.

Tickets are $24 and an additional $10 for premium seating. For ticket and seating information, visit www.Camino-RealPlayhouse.org or call the box office at 949.489.8082.

Call for Players at City Cup Charity Golf Tournament

The San Juan Chamber of Commerce presents its 2012 City Cup and Charity Challenge Golf Tournament Friday, May 4 at San Juan Hills Golf Course. The event raises funds for charitable organizations in the city and supports the chamber. Players sign in at 11 a.m. followed by lunch. Players hit the greens at 1 p.m., and the event concludes with dinner at 6 p.m. A foursome costs $550, which includes golf, lunch and dinner for four. Single play-ers pay $150. To register, visit the tourna-ment website at www.sjccitycup.com.

Food Fare Comes to St. Margaret Episcopal

Chef Azmin Ghahreman, together with Sapphire Culinary Group is holding its Sapphire Food Fare April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in San Juan Capistrano. Sapphire Food Fare is a farmers market and culinary

experience. It’s a collection of fine foods and produce for sale including: farm-fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, artisanal breads, cheeses and chocolates, organic grass-fed beef, fresh seafood and local varietals of honey.

Chefs will be on-hand to demonstrate recipes and provide samplings while nu-tritionists will be available to share advice on how to buy better and eat healthier as families. Last year’s Food Fare attracted more than 1,000 visitors.

National Drug Take-Back Day April 28 at City Hall

As part of a safety campaign to reduce the risk of prescription drug abuse, the newly formed San Juan Capistrano Police Services Crime Prevention Unit is hosting the National Drug Take-Back Day. San Juan residents can dispose of their ex-pired, unused or unwanted drugs anony-mously. The event will give the public an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired prescription drugs.

Residents can drop off their medica-tions from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. This event is also designed to prevent medications from being dumped down the drain or flushed down the toilet where they can enter the sewer system and harm the environment. For more information, visit the city’s web-site at sanjuancapistrano.org.

Riders at the Shea Center demonstrate the work done at the nonprofit during the Business Leaders for Philanthropy Night April 12. Courtesy photo

Randy Redwitz stands with Monsignor Lawrence Baird and Frank Kavanaugh. Redwitz and Kavanaugh were honored at the Orange Catholic Foundation’s business and ethics conference. Courtesy photo


EYE ON SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website (www.ocsd.org). 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.

Wednesday, April 25

HIT AND RUN MISDEMEANORJunipero Serra Road/Rancho Viejo Road (1:48 p.m.) A 49-year-old man, listed as a contractor, was arrested after a hit and run accident.

DISTURBANCEPaseo Santa Clara, 26500 Block (12:41 p.m.) A 28-year-old man, who listed his occupation as a cook, was arrested after a disturbance.

Sunday, April 22

DISTURBANCEInterstate-5/Junipero Serra Road (10:32 p.m.) Deputies were called to the Shell Gas Station on a report of a disturbance. The culprits were gone when they ar-rived.

DISTURBANCECamino Capistrano, 31400 Block (7:34 p.m.) An employee at a liquor store called to report a drunken man.

DISTURBANCECountry Hills Road, 29000 Block (5:56 p.m.) A parent called deputies about a 20-year-old son who was later arrested and released.

GRAND THEFT REPORTVia Buena Vista, 28700 Block (3:19 p.m.) A parent reported money stolen after a party hosted by the caller’s daughter.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCESPaseo Adelanto, 32400 Block (1:47 p.m.)Deputies were called to check a group of five sitting next to the bridge at the park behind city hall.

9-1-1 HANGUPCamino Capistrano, 31400 Block (12:30 p.m.) Someone kept calling 9-1-1 from a payphone at El Nopal Market.

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLECamino Capistrano, 29200 Block (12:26

p.m.) Twenty cars were parked in an area posted as a no parking zone. A caller wanted deputies to check it out.

SUSPICIOUS PERSONCamino Lacouague/Via Buena Vista (8:34 a.m.) A man was reported sleep-ing behind the wheel of a dark blue mini van.

TRAFFIC HAZARDCalle Chueca/Calle Resplendor (8:31 a.m.) A caller wanted deputies to check out some sort of water leak that appeared to be coming up from the asphalt.

KEEP THE PEACEWindsong Drive, 31500 Block (7:34 a.m.) Deputies were called to the San Juan Hills Golf Course to keep the peace while two people exchanged property.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Horseshoe Bend, 27800 Block (3:04 a.m.) Deputies were called about loud music coming from a neighbor’s home. A second call was made an hour later.

WELFARE CHECKMaplewood Court, 26200 Block (1:02 a.m.) A woman was transported from a residence.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCESCamino Las Ramblas/Freeway-1 (12:16 a.m.) Four youths were spotted on foot walking near the northbound off ramp and headed up the hill.

Saturday, April 21

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTYCalle Delphina, 26400 Block (11:23 p.m.) Loud music was reported coming from an apartment. Deputies received three calls over two hours.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTYPaseo Pamela, 26400 Block (10:51 p.m.)A loud party was reported. Deputies made no contact.

GENERAL BROADCASTCamino Capistrano/Del Obispo (10:46 p.m.) The driver of a white Volkswagen Passat was reported driving in all lanes toward Ortega Highway and just turned into the parking lot of El Adobe restau-rant.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Del Obispo Street/Alipaz Street (10:31 p.m.) Loud music was reported possibly coming from a nearby strip mall.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTYAvenida Placida, 28400 Block (10:27 p.m.) A caller phoned deputies about loud party.

DISTURBANCEOrtega Highway, 27100 Block (9:49 p.m.) An employee of the Best Western called about a disturbance.

9-1-1 HANGUPAlipaz Street, 32100 Block (8:43 p.m.)Children were playing with the phone.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCYDoheny Park Road, 33900 Block (7:44 p.m.) Deputies were called to assist an animal control officer out in front of the Pet Smart.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTYCalle Delphina, 26500 Block (5:49 p.m.)Deputies received a report about loud music, and the caller asked if those play-ing the music would just turn down the bass.

9-1-1 HANGUPCamino Capistrano, 32000 Block (5:31 p.m.) Someone kept calling the emer-gency line and hanging up.

DISTURBANCEEl Camino Real/Yorba Street (1:47 p.m.) Deputies were called about a drunken person in the middle of the park.

SUSPICIOUS PERSONS Avenida Aeropuerto, 26000 Block (11:58 a.m.) A group of three or four people was reported in the field.

TRAFFIC HAZARDDel Obispo Street/Camino Capistrano (9:05 a.m.) The signal at the railroad crossing was not cycling properly.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLEAvenida Larga/Via Canela (7:05 a.m.)A resident called about a 30-foot recre-ational vehicle parked in the neighbor-hood with someone sleeping inside.

Friday, April 20

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTYCalle San Francisco, 26500 Block (10:49 p.m.) Deputies were called about several men who were drinking and being loud.

TRAFFIC STOPSundance Drive/Ortega Highway (10:15 p.m.) A 32-year-old man, a machinist, was arrested after a traffic stop, and two others with him at the time were detained.

RECKLESS DRIVINGDel Obispo Street/Calle Aspero (9:20 p.m.) A caller reported four cars driving recklessly on Del Obispo headed toward San Juan Capistrano from Calle Aspero.

PEDESTRIAN CHECKCalle Arroyo, 27300 Block (7:57 p.m.)

A caller phoned deputies to check on three youths, age 17, in the area.

SUSPICIOUS PERSONSCamino Las Ramblas/Montanas Del Mar (6:45 p.m.) Deputies were called about a group six people 3/4 of a mile up the trail.

TRESPASSINGCalle Chueca, 30800 Block (5:14 p.m.)A group of eight youths were in the pool area unsupervised. Deputies spoke to their parents.

ASSAULT REPORTVerdugo Street/Camino Capistrano (4:14 p.m.) A caller from Ruby’s Diner reported an assault an hour earlier.

DISTURBANCEPaseo Adelanto, 31700 Block (3:06 p.m.)Deputies were called to check the rear area of the park near the playground.

DISTURBANCEHorseshoe Bend, 27800 Block (4:40 a.m.) Loud music was reported com-ing from the backyard of a neighbor’s house.

Thursday, April 19

STOLEN VEHICLECamino La Ronda, 28300 Block (8:52 p.m.) A car was reported stolen near the cross streets of Calle Pinon and Calle Los Elegantes.

SUSPICIOUS PERSONSPaseo Carolina, 32000 Block (8:35 p.m.)A man was harassing residents and pos-sibly selling drugs near a community laundry room.

DISTURBANCECamino Capistrano/Doheny Park (6:18 p.m.) A man at the Smart and Final was disturbing the peace.

SUSPICIOUS PERSONCamino Capistrano/Stonehill Drive (3:27 p.m.) A caller wanted deputies to check out a man in his 20s, headed in the direction of Costco, who was carry-ing a bike and bike pump.

PETTY THEFTVia Parra, 31200 Block (3:23 p.m.) A woman’s purse was stolen from her car.

RECKLESS DRIVINGAlipaz Street/Del Obispo Street (12:39 p.m.) Deputies were called about a mo-torcycle racing up and down the street.

DISTURBANCEAlipaz Street, 32300 Block (12:31 p.m.)A 34-year-old unemployed man was ar-rested after a disturbance call was made.

COMPILED BY STACIE N. GALANG


VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTSSOAPBOX

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

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 10, Issue 8. 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.sanclement-etimes.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 2012. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

CEO > Norb Garrett

EDITORIAL

Senior Editor, City Editor, SC Times> Stacie N. Galang

City Editor, DP Times> Andrea Swayne

ART/DESIGN

Senior Designer> Jasmine Smith

ADVERTISING/MULTI-MEDIA MARKETING

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Sales Associates> Angela Edwards

OPERATIONS

Finance Director> Mike Reed

Business Operations Manager> Alyssa Garrett

Accounting Manager> Tricia Zines

Distribution Manager> Andrea Swayne

SPECIAL THANKSRobert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

CONTRIBUTORSTawnee Prazak, David Zimmerle

EDITORSTORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Jonathan Volzke, 949.388.7700, x108 [email protected]

ADVERTISINGPRINT AND ONLINE

Debra Wells, 949.388.7700, x104 [email protected]

DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, [email protected]

BILLINGAlyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 [email protected]

HOW TO REACH US

PICKET FENCE MEDIA

Letters to the CommunityIT’S DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN AND IT’S WRONG

—Marilyn O’Brien, Diane Thomas and Joan Thompson, co-presidents League of Women Voters of Capistrano Bay Area

The League of Women Voters was born more than 90 years ago from the long fi ght to get women the right to vote. Since 1992, when league members studied health care policy, we have worked to ensure access to quality health care for all. The league also has a strong commitment and belief that public policy in a diverse society must affi rm the right of individuals to make their own reproductive choices.

That’s why the league is so deeply concerned about recent proposals that would allow employers and health plans to block contraceptive services and dis-criminate against women.

By a narrow margin, the U.S. Senate recently defeated an amendment that would limit access to contraception for women if any employer or insurance plan has an undefi ned “religious or moral objection” to it. This open-ended invitation to cut back on preventa-tive health care services would turn back the clock for women and for American society.

We understand that not everyone agrees with the league on this subject. But we strongly believe that public institutions, including schools and hospitals that receive substantial federal assistance, should not limit the health care choices available to their employees. Institutions that serve the public at large should not impose their own views but should respect the consci-entious decisions of each individual.

The League of Women Voters believes that all persons, regardless of gender, should be eligible for preventive health services. Allowing employers to exclude contraceptive services is discrimination based on sex, and it’s wrong.

RETURN CHILDREN TO FOREFRONT OF EDUCATION

—Terri Mostert, San Clemente

The articles that are being written about Capistrano Unifi ed School District are only a glimpse of what is happening in our school district today. Funding, layoffs and waivers for class size increases are only a minor setback in the tragedy we as parents are facing. The school district has relinquished its job of educating

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the

paper, e-mail us at [email protected] 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.

children and is now more concerned with employment. Teachers are not pursuing a career in education, but a union job that protects their own fi nancial interests above children’s needs. The union asked its members to vote on the option of raising class size and a subse-quent reduction in force, or make personal contribu-tions to health care benefi ts. The union has voted to support the district’s proposal of class-size increases.

The majority of educators have given up their love for children and accepted a love of money. As a teacher and parent, I am uniquely aware of both sides. How-ever, I am a teacher that believes the students come fi rst. I would not and will not support a plan that puts our children at risk.

Many parents agree with me. Yet, we feel that the information is not disseminated adequately and makes it diffi cult for us to have an informed voice.

I ask you to please help us, parents and children in the Capo Unifi ed. Assist us in returning our children to the forefront of education. Thank you for your support of our young scholars.

TOWN’S PETS IN JEOPARDY

—Shirley Stewart, San Juan Capistrano

It was painfully shocking to read a recent newspaper article exposing the number of pets being euthanized at the Orange County animal shelter. Seventy-fi ve percent of cats and 25 percent of dogs don’t leave the Orange County shelter alive.

Because San Juan Capistrano still does not have its own no-kill shelter, our town’s lost and abandoned pets end up at the county shelter. They would face the same odds of never making it out alive if it weren’t for the one remaining animal rescue group in town – The Ark of San Juan. Since July 2011, when the other local rescue group, CARE, announced it would no longer be rescuing pets, The Ark of San Juan has had to pick up the slack.

The good news: The Ark is doing a heroic job of sav-ing our town’s abandoned pets. The bad news: Rescu-ing is a non-stop revolving door. The Ark is limited in its efforts due to the lack of fi nancial support and availability of temporary foster homes. The Ark needs your help.

Your fi nancial donations will help cover rescued pets’ medical costs, food, boarding, spay and neutering and more. As a nonprofi t, The Ark does not pay salaries to its board members or volunteers. Your donations go directly to cover the rescued animals’ care and main-tenance. Your fi nancial donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

As a temporary foster parent, you will be provided with the pet food and supplies. All you need to give is your time and love.

If you are able to support The Ark of San Juan’s on-going mission of saving our town’s pets, please contact them today and say, “Yes, sign me up. How can I help?” They can be reached at [email protected] or 949.388.0034. Visit www.ArkOfSanJuan.org.


SOAPBOX

Should Capistrano be more ‘Business Friendly?’JONATHAN VOLZKE: My Turn

watched with interest in the City Council Chambers as Council-

man Derek Reeve asked his colleagues to take a look at Capistrano’s com-mission process, in an attempt to make the city “more business friendly.”

In more than 15 years of watching our council, I’ve heard that before.

Not that it’s not worth taking a look. Mayor Larry Kramer appointed himself and Mayor Pro Tem John Taylor to a subcommittee to investigate the issue. And to be honest, Capistrano has some 10 commissions, including a Cultural Heritage Commission, two parks-related panels (Parks, Recreation and Seniors Committee and an Open Space, Trails and Equestrian Committee) as well as commissions dedicated to transporta-tion, planning, design, bond oversight, youth, housing and utilities.

They’re all made up of volunteers, some who are experts on their topics but all who want to be involved in their community. Development projects gen-erally pass through each commission on their way to City Council, although the commissions are all advisory — except for the Planning Commission, which has some legally mandated powers.

So what to do about them? Would it be more “business friendly” for projects seeking council approval to be able to avoid some of those meetings? Some cities don’t have anywhere near as many commissions, and some City Councils

ith another colorful, success-ful Swallows Day Parade down in our history book, I want to

thank the members of the San Juan Cap-istrano Fiesta Association - led by Steve Weeks - for their fine work in putting on the 54th Fiesta de las Golondrinas. They had more than the usual share of bumps in the road, including the equestrian vi-rus, new rules on the carrying of pistols and other issues, but they handled all of these challenges admirably and kept their eye on the ball of coordinating many special events. I had the pleasure of attending most of them including the

I

W

– such as Laguna Hills – also serve as their community’s planning agency, thereby eliminating the need for a Plan-ning Commission.

But is it really easier for business? The projects would still face the same issues of building trails and impacts on cultural heritage and traffic, and certainly Capistrano’s issues – with its centuries of history and Native Ameri-can villages – can be more complex than those in other communities. And we all know, sadly, first-hand how complicated traffic is in Capistrano, with the town bisected by a freeway, railroad tracks and creeks. Add in that a major route through town – The Ortega – is a state highway, and you’ve got far different challenges than say, Aliso Viejo, which doesn’t even have a traffic commission.

It’s probably better to address those issues earlier in the process rather than later. I know it’s better for a developer to face some of our commissioners when they’re in a position to give advice on a project, rather than have them arguing against a proposal before the council.

Honestly, I’m not sold on a couple of key premises here. Is Capistrano truly not business friendly? I suspect devel-opers in the vast majority of Orange County’s 34 cities would contend they’re not business friendly enough. And when I look around town, stuff seems to be getting built. Big stuff. Before the economy dumped, we saw Rancho Madrina – 126 homes – built. We saw the Ortega Ranch business complex go up at Ortega and Rancho Viejo Road, as

Kid’s Pet Parade, Taste of San Juan, El Presidente Ball and the highlight of the celebration, the Swallows Day Parade and Mercado. Unfortunately, I missed the Fiesta Grande and Hoosegow Day thanks to other commitments but I know those events, too, were done in grand San Juan style. Every event I attended was well organized and a whole lot of fun. So, my hat is off to the wonderful, hardworking men and women volunteers of the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association. I am already looking forward to next year’s celebration. CD

Jonathan Volzke

well as the Mammoth Equities build-ings at the north end of town. We saw developer SunCal get approval for 416 homes at the south end – it wasn’t our fault bankers were making land-use decisions there.

Yes, In-N-Out is building in Rancho Santa Margarita, where they only have two commissions – Planning and Economic Development, but that was because the majority of the former Cap-istrano City Council didn’t want another drive-through restaurant on Del Obispo Street. And I bumped into a woman the other day whose family is suing Capist-rano because of delays and errors that derailed her family’s plan for a medical building. The commission process did drain the project, she said, but errors by city staffers sank it. Sounds like the story the Scalzo family could tell. The issues that led to the city paying them $6.9 million over the botched develop-ment plan for their property didn’t have anything to do with commissions, either.

And that, to me, is the issue. If the city wants to be more “business friendly,” the city should first define that term. Does that mean moving projects more quickly? How long does it take to get a project before its first commission in San Juan Capistrano compared to other cities? How long does it take a project to get approved? How long should it take? Would speeding the process sacrifice quality?

If city leaders decide it takes longer than it should, then maybe the commis-sion process needs to be examined. But

not in a vacuum. Look at the entire pro-cess, from when the developer submits and application to the approval.

But maybe “business friendly” means how much the process costs a devel-oper – and certainly a longer process costs more. But Dana Point doesn’t mandate business licenses, while Capist-rano does. Would it be more “business friendly” to eliminate business licenses? And Capistrano was certainly “business friendly” when it waived some utilities fees to get the Marriott built – but now the Utilities Commission, grappling with a multi-million-dollar deficit – is asking how Utilities will be repaid for that fee waiver as the bed tax from the hotel floods the city’s general fund.

Capistrano has new leadership at City Hall in City Manager Karen Brust, and I’ve heard nothing but great things about her. She and her team could truly investigate whether Capistrano could – and should – be more business friendly, but the process should start like any development project – at the beginning. Brust has already made some internal moves in that direction – and maybe the next step is some sort of survey of developers to see what they think, along with a survey of other cities to see how they handle projects.

Putting the commissions in the cross-hairs so early in the process just isn’t … friendly.

San Juan Capistrano resident Jonathan Volzke founded The Capistrano Dispatch in 2002 and is now a senior account manager for Faubel Public Affairs. CD

Understanding the process requires a look from start to finish

CONGRATULATIONS, FIESTA ASSOCIATIONBY LARRY KRAMER, MAYOR OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Courtesy of San Juan Photo & Digital

2012 GUIDE TODANA POINT • SAN CLEMENTE • SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO • SURROUNDING AREAS

camps & clinicsPAID ADVERTISING SECTION

Aloha Beach Camp: T-Street,San Clemente (For ages 7-15yrs.) For personalized instructionwe provide surfing groups with a1:2 Instructor to Camper ratio.Learn important beach and ocean safety skills needed to surf and

body board. Body boarding, body surfing, beach activities, & daily trophy give aways. Lead Instructor: Matthew Colapinto: 33 years Beach Lifeguard and 19 years as an Elementary School Teacher. For more information on Registration and Private Lessons: WWW.ALOHABEACHCAMP.NET

Aloha Beach Camp

The #1 Musical Theater Camp in South OC! With a New Themed Musical Show every week, we combine

games (to build acting skills and self esteem), crafts, music, dance and FUN! Camp meets M– F from 9am to 3pm daily with a big Camp Show EVERY Friday night! Runs July 9th -August 24th! Join us for one or two weeks or the entire Summer! No Experi-ence Necessary! Last summer we sold-out before school let out, so RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY! 949.388.3846, www.BroadwayBoundOC.com

Camp Broadway Bound

All Star Dugout will be offering: Base-ball camp, June 25-29 9am-1pm Mon-Fri. Ages 6-7 & 8-10. Cost $200 Chap-parosa park in Laguna Niguel. Softball Camp, August 13-17 Mon-Fri 9am-1pm. Ages 6-7u 8-10u, 11-12u. Niguel Hills in Laguna Niguel. www.allstardugout.com sign up online [email protected]. Serving South Orange County youth

since 1998. Fully Insured.

All Star Dugout

Summer Performing Arts Camps. Ages Served: 3-13. It’s time to watch your star shine! Campers are

guided through a full theater-immersion experience via four daily classes (music, art, acting and dance), and the culminating event will be a Friday perfor-mance on the main stage at Camino Real Playhouse! A child can participate for one week, the entire summer, or anywhere in between! Camino Real Play-house, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 714.747.4915, www.ActingAcademyforKids.com

Acting Academy for Kids

From June 25 to August 31, 2012 your child gets to BE a Chef, BE a Scientist, BE Ac-tive, BE a Friend, BE a Kid and BE much more

here at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. The Club is open Monday- Friday from 7am to 6pm. Members are separated by age 5 & 6, 7 to 10 and 11 & up. Please view www.bgccapo.com. or call (949) 240-7898 for price breakdown.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley

Introducing the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area’s PLAY GREAT Summer

Program! Offering more than 25 summer programs including athletics, arts & crafts, computers, games, field trips and special events at a low ($30 annually) or no-cost to our members (small additional fee for field trips). The Club is located at 1304 Calle Valle, San Clemente. Summer program runs June 25 –August 31st. hours are M-F 7:30am – 5:30pm. 949.492.0376. BeGreatSanClemente.org.

Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area

Summer Quest is a faith based day camp run by certified teachers with lov-ing hearts. Each day brings hours of creative play, new friendships, character build-ing and exciting adventures. With weekly beach days,

pool days, park days and field trips to fun places like Knott’s Berry Farm, Legoland, county fairs, and water parks, you will never hear those dreaded words, “I’m bored.” The small teacher-child ratio insures safety and quality care. Located in Capistrano Beach. 949.496.3513, www.capobeachchristianschool.org

Capo Beach Christian School Summer Quest

Summer is almost here, so plan your children’s summer activities early. The City of Dana Point will be offering the following camps: Abrakadoodle Art, Wildnerness Adventures, Engineering with Legos, Irish Soccer, Golf, Multi-

Sport or Basketball. www.danapoint.org/recreaton or 949-248-3530.

City of Dana Point

Courtesy of Camp Broadway Bound



Build confi dence, improve perfor-mance skills and

make new friends! Danman’s Music School in Dana Point is offering weekly music camps for kids this summer. Camps start June 25 and run thru middle of August. Each camp includes learning to play in a band, soloing and playing secondary instruments, and an end of camp concert for family and friends. Camps are 10am - 1pm Monday thru Friday. Drinks and snacks included daily. Totally fun and gives your child musical skills over and above their peers. 24699 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949-496-6556

Danman’s Rock Camp

Sundays are all about the kids at Dana Wharf Sportfi shing. Dana Wharf hosts a free kids fi shing clinic

Sundays at 12 noon, children of all ages will enjoy a 30 minute dockside clinic where they will get hands on experience with fi shing rods , reels, live bait , knot tying and one on one time with the captain and crew members, in addition, Dana Wharf gives away great prizes. The clinic is followed by a half day fi shing trip, kids are also free when accompanied by an adult! For more information please call Dana Wharf at 949.496.5794 or www.danawharf.com.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing& Whale Watching

At over 62,000sf of concrete paradise, this is the award winning premiere skateboard facility. We offer a wide variety of skateboard lessons, classes,

summer camps, video camps, band nights, and even awesomely affordable birthday parties. Check us out on the web www.EtniesSkatepark.com or follow us on Twitter or Facebook. 949 916 5870. Located at 20028 Lake Forest Dr, Lake Forest, CA 92630.

Etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest

The City of San Clemente’s Summer Adventures have ar-rived and everyone is invited! Explore over 300 classes and events for the whole family available online now! Visit the new Vista Hermosa Sports

Park and San Clemente Aquatics Center to discover new camps and events including Family Camp Out, Guard In Training, Parents Night Out, Synchronized Swimming and Active Adventures Camp. There is something for everyone! For information and regis-tration, logon to www.san-clemente.org/recreation or call 949.429.8797. Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/sanclementerecreation!

City of San Clemente Summer Adventures!

Cola’s Surf Camp is located in San Clemente at Poche Beach and is an excellent site with good waves, a sandy bottom, and a safe environment for learning to surf. Mitch Colapinto, Founder and Director of Cola’s Surf Camp, has

shared his passion for surfi ng and knowledge of the sport with thousands of students during his 13 years as a surf instructor and 19 years as an elementary school teacher. For more information, please visit colassurfcamp.com.

Cola’s Surf Camp

Emerald Cove Day Camp is committed to shaping charac-ter, skills, relation-

ship, and faith. ECDC offers two-week long sessions of creative and outdoor fun in a nurturing, Christian faith-based environment. Exceptional staff members serve as counselors, activity leaders, and role mod-els. Activities include archery, horsemanship, team games, creative arts, nature, exploration, fi eld trips, singing and small group discovery. Session 1: June 25-July 6, Session 2: July 9-July 20, Session 3: July 23-August 3. Open to kids ages 5-10. 949.361.3077, www.emeraldcovedaycamp.com

Emerald Cove Day Camp

iStock Photo

iStock Photo



The Julie Foudy Soccer Camp for Girls ages 8-16, is proud to be returning to Mission Viejo, July 9-12th, for our 17th year! We offer campers a unique full-day (9am-3pm) experi-

The Julie Foudy Soccer Camp

Mission San Juan Capistrano offers summer programs the entire family can enjoy, including weekly activities and summer camp programs for children. The weekly craft activities are geared towards

kids ages 6-12 and will run from June 25 through Aug. 31. The summer camps include a two-week Ceramic Clay Camp, as well as the popular Adventure Sleepover: Night at the Mission. And for the “big” kids, the Mission offers its Music Under the Stars concert series, the shows being held in the beautiful Mission Courtyard every other Saturday starting July 7.For more information all on the summer fun, go to missionsjc.com or call 949.234.1300.

Mission San Juan Capistrano

JSerra Aquatics is excited to host Swimming and Water Polo Camps for girls and boys 1st-8th grade. Come train this summer with American Record Holder Mary McLaughlin, Olympic Silver Medal-

ist Julie Swail-Ertel and International Water Polo Player Paul Cruzan. All experience levels welcome! Three sessions to choose from. All camps are located at the beautiful JSerra Aquatics Complex, 26351 Junipero Serra Road San Juan Capistrano. For more info please contact [email protected] or 714.478.2018.

JSerra Aquaticsence highlighted by fundamental training, leadership development, and teaching and mentoring moments from some of the most successful women soccer players and coaches in the game! Staff includes cur-rent and former college players, professional players, college coaches, and National Team players. For more information: www.juliefoudysoccercamps.com.

iStock Photo



OC Lifeguards offers marine safety educa-tion through its junior lifeguard program.

Junior guards will learn critical ocean safety funda-mentals from certified lifeguard instructors and get hands on experience in a variety of lifesaving and waterman/woman activities. Location: Strands Beach, Dana Point. Times: Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm. Dates: Session 1: 6/25 - 7/13, Session 2: 7/16 - 8/3, Session 3: 8/6 - 8/24 Cost: 1 Session: $445, 2 Sessions: $855, 3 Sessions: $1265 Sign Up: www.ocjuniorguards.com, 949.276.5050

OC Lifeguards

Orange County Water Polo Club (OCWPC) starts form-ing boy and girl athletes at an early age, combining a potent combination of teamwork, training and discipline with fun. We are currently practic-ing at Vista Hermosa Aquat-

ics Facility in San Clemente. Our Coaching stuff is in the water with the kids teaching the proper funda-mentals, body positioning and water polo swim technique. For more information please contact us at www.ocwpc.com or call us at 949-769-4038.

Orange County Water Polo Club

Let your child explore the mysteries of the ocean world through

our unique, hands-on marine science and maritime

Ocean Institute

history summer camps. Campers can study marine wildlife in our labs, take a cruise aboard our research vessel Sea Explorer, or even step back in time to the life of a tallship sailor in the 1800s. Camps are suitable for kids/teens 5 to 17 years old and include week-long day camps and overnight adventures. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org

Academic Chess is a non-profit organization that specializes in teaching the game of chess to children. We use fun stories, a giant chess set, and outside

games to immerse each student into a learning environment that’s both fun and exciting! Classes are designed for both new and continuing students! Sign up today for one of our camps! Starting Dates: Mar-blehead (Mon-Thurs): 6/25, 7/30, & 8/20. Bergeson (Mon-Thurs): 7/9, 7/23, 8/6, 8/13,& 8/27.

OC Academic Chess

iStock Photo



San Clemente United are hosting their fourth annual skills camp in town August 13-17th from 9am-11am, Monday through Friday. The camp is for 7-14 year old girls and boys. Work with professional coaches from the

EPL from clubs such as Manchester United, Swansea City, Newcastle United and Celtic. Registration details are available online at www.scunited.org or contact Chris Murray on 949-547-0439.

SC United Soccer

SC Times said we have 75 words to say what we do. Well, here goes…

SLAM has Swim suits and stuff that goes with it, Junior Lifeguard suits & fins, BEACH Volleyball, La-crosse, Soccer, Rugby, Indoor Volleyball, Water polo, coach’s stuff too. OH! Don’t FORGET crazy socks! The largest selection of STANCE and Sock Guy socks. Plus SLAM Sports is owned by a SC family. 69 Via Pico Plaza, next to 99¢. 949.429.7948

SLAM Sports

San Clemente Dance & Perform-ing Arts Center was established in 1995 by Judy Corfman-Kelly.

Our new Talega facility houses three large dance rooms with sprung floors and a dancewear store. We offer classes in Tap, Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Contem-porary, Hip Hop, Breakdancing, Ballroom, Musical Theater, and Tumbling for ages 2-adults, beginning-advanced. SCDPAC is a positive and nurturing, family-friendly community dance studio with the highest level of training, technique and dedication to our students. 1321 Calle Avanzado, San Clemente, CA 92673 (949) 498-7571.

San Clemente Dance & Performing Arts Center

All New!! Sunshine Art 4 Camps: Ages 5-8, 9am–12pm; Ages 9-12, 2pm–5pm. Imagine… paint, draw, and make

fabulous art with friends! Real art education… lots

San Clemente Art Supply

Red Tide Swim Team is a novice summer team open to all 4-16 years olds who can swim! Under SVCS Coach Bert Bergen, swim-mers are taught strokes, dives, and turns in an environment where everyone is welcome.

Swimmers learn to compete, earn ribbons, and have FUN! Dates: June 12-August 1 at JSerra HS, 3pm Tue-Fri. Contact [email protected] or 291-1659 for info. Must enroll by 7/6. Want early practice or JG training? Spring clinics start 5/19!

Red Tide Swim Teamof FUN!! Four Sessions: (Mondays–Thursdays) Camp 1 Realistic Goes Abstract; July 9-12. Camp 2 Cali-fornia Coastal Art; July 16-19. Camp 3 Los Angeles Artist; July 23-26. Camp 4 Art Element Action; July 30- August 2. Call for details. 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com



St. Anne School offers three programs for Summer 2012: Summer Knights Summer School, Day Camp and Sports Camp. With fl exible programs, available from 7am to 6pm daily, we have everything covered for a summer of fun, adventure, and learning,

including our Jumpstart Series, science, fi eld trips, sports, and more. Visit our website: www.st-anne.orgor call us at 949.276.6700. St. Anne School is a WASC and NAEYC accredited, National Blue Ribbon school, oriented to the family and dedicated to the development of the whole child.

St. Anne School

At St. Andrew’s by-the-Sea United Methodist Church Sky Vacation Bible School, children don’t just hear about God’s love; they expe-rience it through a variety of

mediums, including crafts, games, drama and an op-portunity to serve others in the community. Traveling through the week’s activities, the children go deeper into their understanding of God. Most importantly, children learn that everything is possible with God. July 23-27 from 9am – Noon, with a special “Sky” worship service with the children on Sunday 7/29. Tuition: $50/child. 949.492-2537, www.sabts.org

St. Andrew’s by-the-Sea

The Steve Johnson Tennis Academy located at the beautiful Rancho

Steve Johnson Tennis Academy

Volcom presents: Summer Soul Surf Camp, located in San Clemente at San Onofre “Surf Beach”. Week long day and overnight camp programs for boys and girls

ages 9–16. CPR / fi rst aid certifi ed instructors are experienced surfers committed to being role models both in and out of the water. Spend your summer surfi ng morning and afternoon sessions. Learn to play the ukulele and eat S’mores by the campfi re with your friends. www.summersoulsurfcamp.com, 800.522.1352.

Summer Soul Surf Camp

San Clemente Tennis & Fitness Club has a summer program for all levels of juniors. 10 one week ses-sions begin June 25. Full day camps, half day camps and hour classes are available. Tournament and high school level players will meet in the afternoons at 2pm. Pro shop stocked with Babolat rackets, and accessories. Nike and Babolat shoes for everyone. Custom stringing is also available. 949.492.1515, www.sjtennis.com.



Waterbabies Swim School is located in the heart of downtown San Clemente at 142 Avenida Granada. Our parent and me classes are not only a great time, good for your babies brain growth

Waterbabies Swim School

Westwind Sailing & Paddling has 24 years at OC

Sailing & Events Center: 34451 Ensenada Pl., Dana Point. Kids sailing, SUP classes and day camps for ages 6–17. SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! Also: Adult sailing and SUP classes, birthday parties, special events, adaptive boating, SUP rental, private/semi-private lessons, sailing rides, clubs, family sailing, gift certificates. Westwind Sailing & Paddling is a Silver Lantern winner for customer service in the 2010 People’s Choice Awards, Best of Dana Point. 949.492.3035, www.WestwindSailing.com

Westwind Sailing& Paddling

Join us for ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES at the Y! What better way to start your summer than at the YMCA Summer Camp? Each day of camp comes packed with fun and excite-

ment! Children will get to make new friends, go on adventures, field trips, special events, and participate in sports, themed events, and activities in a struc-tured and nurturing environment. Our experienced staff is dedicated to making your child’s summer stimulating and memorable. Visit ymcaoc.org or call 949.940.1100 to register today!

YMCA Camp

Tstreet Volleyball Club trains over 350 athletes be-tween the ages of 9 and 18, and is recognized as one of the top clubs in the country.

Conveniently located in the spectrum district of Irvine, Tstreet offers a full range of position specific, general skills and sand camps / clinics throughout the sum-mer. All participants, whether beginning or advanced, are placed in serious learning environments. Experi-enced coaches, led by two-time Olympic gold medal-ist and club owner Troy Tanner, teach proper volleyball mechanics in competitive, fun drills. 949.305.8083, [email protected].

Tstreet Volleyball Cluband motor development, but are also a vehicle for creating water safety from a very young age. Children older than two years can attend a class without a par-ent in the water, and will appreciate the warm inviting atmosphere, and loving teachers. Ph: 949.488.2512, Fax: 949.258.2506, www.waterbabiesswimschool.com

Courtesy of Westwind Sailing


YOUR TWO-WEEK EVENT PLANNER

GETTING OUT

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

SPELLING BEE 8 p.m. Musical at Cabrillo Playhouse. Shows through May 6. Tickets $20-$25. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

4TH FRIDAY TRAIL WALK 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Volunteer for a few hours to help make Reserve trails accessible at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservan-cy. Free. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org

LARRY BAGBY 8:30 p.m. Live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

JOHN SOLONE FRANK SINATRA TRIBUTE 7:45 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Vintage Steak House. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

MONDAY NIGHT LAUGHS9 p.m.-11 p.m. Live stand-up comedy every Monday at Hen-nessey’s Tavern. 34111 La Pla-za, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

CHOIR CONCERT 7:30 p.m. Pacifi c Chorale’s chamber choir, the John Alexander Sing-ers, perform a concert titled Maiden and Martyr in the Mis-sion Basilica. Tickets $30-$55.

31522 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 714.662-2345, www.missionparish.org

WHALE AND DOLPHIN TOURS Capt Dave’s Safari has daily 2.5 hour whale and dolphin watching tours on a high-tech catamaran with underwater viewing pods and more. Call for times. Cost $55 adults, $35 children, 2 and younger free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

SUCCULENTS CLASS 1:30 p.m. Design class with suc-culents at Goin Native. $25. 31661 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.606.6386, www.losrioshistoricdistrict.com.

SHAWN JONES BAND 2:30 p.m. Live music at Swal-low’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

sunday 29

friday 27

“THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD” AT SJHHS 7 p.m. Students of San Juan Hills High School present the play in the school theatre that will feature a different ending every showing

on the dates: April 26, 27, 28 and May 3, 4, 5. Tickets online. 29211 Vista Montana, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.5900, www.sjhhs.org.

WAG-A-THON 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The Pet Project Founda-tion presents its annual doggie social gathering with a 4k walk, Bowser Bazaar, treats, contest, demonstrations and more all at the Dana Point Harbor on Dana Point Harbor Island. Admission $35. More info: 949.595.8899, www.petprojectfoundation.org.

SAPPHIRE FOOD FAIRE 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Chef Azmin of Sapphire Laguna and others host a farmers market and culinary experience with a collection of fi ne foods and farm-fresh produce at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School. 31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano, 949.261.2216.

saturday 28

monday 30

NETWORK BREAK-FAST MIXER 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m. Chamber event at The Vintage Steak House. Cost $15-$25. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan

Capistrano, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

KARAOKE 7 p.m. Joel and Les host Karaoke at Swallow’s Inn. $2 tacos and free popcorn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

NATIVE AMERICAN BASKET WEAVING 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Experience the art of basket weaving at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Free with admission. 26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

TOMORROWS ARTISTS TODAY 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Casa Romantica features an exhibition of works by local high school and middle school students, on display through May 31. Gen-

eral admission: $5. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

BEER TASTING DINNER 6 p.m. Salt Creek Grille hosts a tasting paired with 3-courses. $34.95. 32802 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

MUSIC OF THE WORLD: ASIA’S PACIFIC TRIO7 p.m. Casa Romanitca presents The Pacifi c Trio playing tradi-tional Chinese instruments fea-turing works from Hong Kong,

Taiwan and Northern China. $30. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

GARDEN ANGELS 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Meet at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park to volunteer at the park, meet friends and more. Bring gloves. First of the month includes free lunch at Ramos House Cafe. 31661 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.

SADDLEBACK COLLEGE JOB & INTERNSHIP FAIR10 a.m.-1 p.m. Looking for a job or looking to hire? Meet prospective employees or employers. Saddleback College, 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu.

(Cont. on page 16)

tuesday 01

thursday 03

wednesday 02

Most authors have comfort zones with their preferences of genres, themes and set-tings. And unless the author is Shakespeare or Stephen King, most of them stick within those zones. Nicholas Sparks writes saccharine love stories set almost always in North Carolina. And while Sparks has sold a number of books and found a following, his stories seem to rely too much on redundant gimmicks and scenarios. The latest fi lm adaptation book, The Lucky One, seems to prove just that.

War veteran and current drifter Logan (Zac Efron) travels by foot from Colorado to Louisiana to fi nd a girl (Taylor Schilling) in a picture he found while serving in Iraq that he believes kept him alive with its luck. When he meets up with her, he is taken with her

and she with him. But her manipulative husband (Jay R. Ferguson) and trust issues get in the way. Sparks’ seemed to do well with Message in a Bottle and The Notebook, but later critics and viewers began to realize his

limited range. The Lucky One comes off corny, predictable and uninspired. Former Disney heartthrob Efron carries one fa-cial expression throughout to cover up his lack of dramatic range while Katy Perry lookalike Schilling overacts far too much. Frankly, The Lucky One just makes fi lm fans wish they had watched Coming Home (1978) or even Sparks’ own Message in a Bottle (1999) again. CD —Megan Bianco

AT THE MOVIES: ‘THE LUCKY ONE’ FALTERS

© 2011 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

PET ADOPTION 12 p.m.-4 p.m. The Ark of San Juan will be at PetSmart in the SJC Costco center with rescued cats for adoption. 949.388.0034, www.ArkOfSanJuan.org.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EXPO 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Special event to teach families what to do in an emergency, held at Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints. 310 Avenida Vista Montana, San Clemente.

LOS RIOS HISTORIC GARDEN TOUR 10 a.m.-4 p.m. First annual event featuring a tour of gardens in the Los Rios District led by experts; held again Sunday 12 p.m.-4 p.m. 31661 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.606.6386, www.losrioshistoricdistrict.com.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE: COMPOST PRODUCTION AND USE 1 p.m.-3 p.m. The Ecology Center teaches you how to turn organic waste into valuable resources by composting. Free. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949-443-4223, www.TheEcologyCenter.org.


GETTING OUT

CITY CUP & CHARITY CHALLENGE GOLF TOUR-NAMENT 1 p.m. Golf tourney at San Juan Hills Golf Course to benefit charitable organizations. Fee $150 each or $550 foursome.

Registration and lunch begins at 11 a.m. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, www.scjcitycupgolf.com.

STEEL MAGNOLIAS 8 p.m. Play at Camino Real Play-house. $24-$34. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capist-rano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

DANA POINT SYMPHONY SEASON FINALE 7:30 p.m. Conductor Dean Anderson leads the concert at St. Edwards Church, featuring the music of Dvorak with featured pianist Berenika, Beethoven and Glinka. Tickets $8-$12. 33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point, 301.832.0388, www.danapointsymphony.com.

DANA POINT GRAND PRIX OF CYCLING Professional cyclists, amateurs and kids race bikes along a criterium course through downtown Dana Point. Event includes fun for the en-

tire family, with a vendor expo, food, beverages and more. More info: 949.248.3501, www.danapointgrandprix.com.

FINE ART AUCTION & WINE TASTING 2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Exchange Club presents the art and wine event at the Casino San Clemente benefiting the Boys & Girls Club, featuring work by 20 artists, wine, live music, appetizers and more. Tickets $40. 140 W. Avenida Pico, San Clem-ente, 949.492.4340, www.sanclementeartauction.com.

SIERRA SAGE WILDFLOWER WALK 9 a.m. The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy invites you to join Sierra Sage chapter of the Sierra Club to enjoy the beautiful, natural scenery of The Conservan-cy. Cost $5-$10. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. SJC Historical Society leads a tour to see Los Rios Historical District, O’Neill Museum, Montanez Adobe, the Mission, Rios Adobe and more. Meet at the train depot on Verdugo Street. Every Sunday. $2 adults, $1 children. 949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

sunday 06

Have an event?Send your listing to [email protected]

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

friday 04

FAMILY FILM FEATURE 11 a.m. Watch “Happy Feet 2” at the library. Free admission and popcorn. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

KENTUCKY DERBY HAT PARTY 1 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition hosts a viewing party with a hat contest at the Regency Theater. Tickets $20-$25, plus optional $10 hat contest registration fee. 26762 Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, www.sjcec.org.

CINCO DE MAYO SURPRISE 7:45 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Vintage Steak House. 26701-B Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.3400, www.thevintagesteak-house.com.

FARM TO FORK 10:30 a.m.-noon. Children learn kitchen basics as well as the benefits of buying local and organic at The Ecology Center. Cost $15 members, $20 non-members. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949-443-4223, www.TheEcologyCenter.org.

CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Cel-ebrate at Max Berg Plaza Park featuring entertainment by Mariachis, Aztec Dancers, Ballet Folklorico and live bands along with a student art contest and exhibit, children’s activities, authentic food and more. 1100 Calle Puente, San Clemente, 949.361.8264, www.san-clemente.org.

saturday 05

GHOSTWALKER COU-GAR IN THE SANTA ANA MOUNTAINS7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Informa-tive presentation about the elusive native cougar

at the RMV Presentation Center as part of The Reserve’s “Spring Series” of wildlife presentations. Donations wel-come. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

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

BILINGUAL STORYTIME 11:30 a.m. Children are invited to join the library for stories in Spanish and English. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

COUNTRY DANCIN WITH PATRICK & FRIENDS6:30 p.m. Every Monday at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

PRESCHOOL STOYTIME11:15 a.m. Children ages 3-6 and their caregivers are invited to join the library for stories, songs, crafts and fun. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capist-

rano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Daily two-hour whale watching trips departing throughout the day at Dana Wharf. Cost $19-$32. Times may vary. 34675 Golden Lantern,

Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

EVENING NETWORKING MIXER & FOOD TASTING5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. The San Juan Chamber’s “Taste of South County” mixer with food from local restaurants held at Independence Bank. 32291 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.4700, www.sanjuanchamber.com.

monday 07

tuesday 08

thursday 10

wednesday 09

(Cont. from page 14)

Rita Wilson is well known as an actress (Sleepless in Seattle) and a film producer (Big Fat Greek Wedding) but few may be aware that her early show biz ambitions were actu-ally musical. Born and raised in the Hollywood Hills, Wilson harbored dreams of becoming a singer in the 1960s and ’70s after falling in love with The Beatles, The Mamas & the Papas and The Supremes, among others.

What was the prompt that motivated you to launch your debut album AM/FM?

Wilson: I have always loved singing. When I did the musi-cal Chicago on Broadway playing Roxie Hart it reignited that love. After that, I had an idea to do a musical using songs from the sixties and seventies. I ended up making an album first instead of doing the play.

AT THE COACH HOUSE:

THE ’60S AND ’70S COME ALIVE WITH RITA WILSON

Rita Wilson. Courtesy photo

How did you decide what to include on your debut album AM/FM?

Wilson: I was looking for songs that told stories. I remember being in the back of my parents’ car, listening to

AM radio and imagining what life would be like when I was old enough to have a boyfriend. The AM songs had such an innocence to them, a joy and purity. The FM songs dealt with the singer songwriter’s experience, which was more personal and illustrated a more experienced point of view on love.

How is performing live music on stage different for you?Wilson: I love having a band. The camaraderie is truly

wonderful. I have never toured, so that’s different. It’s also much more naked. I’m not creating a character. It’s just me, out there, hoping you like the show.

What’s next on your agenda?Wilson: I have some live shows coming up that I’m very

excited about. Two movies I have done, Jewtopia and Kiss Me will soon be released. I wrote a script for a movie called Terms of Embarrassment for FOX 2000 that I hope to get made this year.

The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capist-rano, Wednesday, May 2. Doors open at 6 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15–20. CD —A.J. Bardzilowski

CURIOSITY CARTS 10 a.m.-12 p.m. A hands-on learning experience for kids 5 and older with replicas of mission artifacts used by the Juaneno Indians at Mission San Juan Capistrano. 26801 Ortega Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

GOOD NEIGHBORS CLUB OF CAPISTRANO VAL-LEY 11 a.m. The ladies group meets at Irons in the Fire for lunch, an entertaining program and to discuss local groups of interest. 150 Avenida Magdalena, San Clem-ente, 949.361.0586.

SAN CLEMENTE CHORAL SOCIETY SPRING CONCERT 7 p.m. Concert titled “Songs From the Heart” with music on the subject of love held in St. Andrew’s by-the-Sea Methodist Church. $12-$15. 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente, 949.429.1151, www.SCCS-Arts.org.

4LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY

SJC LIVING

4COMMUNITY CALENDARFriday 4.27

Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. All are welcome. El Adobe Restaurant, 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. Occurs every Friday.

Saturday 4.28

National Prescription Medication Take Back Day 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

Monday 4.30

Women’s Forum 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., San

Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino del Avion, $5 materi-als fee, register at 949.493.5911. Meets once a week for six weeks.

Tuesday 5.01

City Council and Housing Author-ity 6 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

Thursday 5.03

Design Review Committee 4:30 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adel-anto.

Monday 5.07

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

Tuesday 5.08

Planning Commission 6:30 p.m., City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

Friday 5.11

Next regular issue of The Dispatch publishes.


ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake

Online success possible, but often requires a thick skin

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50: Tom Blake

Is Internet Dating a Viable Option for Singles age 50 to 80?time and know what to look for.

Another woman, Pat, 73, went on www.bikerkiss.com as sort of a joke because a friend had just purchased a motorcy-cle. There, she met Len: “We are over seven years into our relationship. We have lived together

for most of that time and enjoy our life to-gether. There were times when I thought being on the Internet was a waste of time. There are a lot of men out there that are just looking for sex, money or someone to take care of them. There were some not-so-good dates, mostly coffee and lunch but I always went into it with an open mind.

“Internet dating may not work for every-one, but it worked for us. He was new to the Internet dating scene while I had been on for a while. When we met, we found we had many common interests and we really liked each other. The rest followed.”

For age 50-plus singles, to achieve suc-cess in dating takes a huge commitment of time and effort. Internet dating should be just one aspect of a single’s quest to fi nd a mate. One needs a thick skin to deal with the rejection, rudeness, cheaters, liars, scammers and people with malicious in-tentions. And yet, many older singles have had success with Internet-dating.

In 2009, I published a book titled, “How 50 Couples Found Love After 50” to give older singles hope that meeting some-one is possible, and to show them how older couples found love. Several Orange County couples are featured.

More than half of the stories are Inter-net-dating success stories. Granted a few of the couples are no longer together, but more than 85 percent of them are. That’s a pretty good number.

The book is available as a hard cover

ost questions I receive from singles age 50 to 80 involve the Internet. The most recent came from Ana-

bella: “I’m 57 and hope to fi nd the right one in my life after 23 years divorced. I’ve been trying to date online but no luck. What do you think of meeting online?”

For people in the 50- to 80-age range, meeting online is a mixed bag and such a vast topic that entire books are written about it. This week, two women help an-swer Anabella’s question by sharing their experience.

Patty, 16 years divorced, said, “Your columns and books have inspired me to never give up. I’ve met nice men and not-so-nice men on the Internet. I’ve had a few long-term relationships, one long-distance relationship (not a good idea) and have had my heart broken.

“In spite of it all, I’ve learned a great deal about myself and remained optimistic and open while taking good care of myself physically, emotionally and spiritually. I see so many folks my age (62) just give up, gain weight and sit on the couch and watch TV. They become reclusive and bit-ter and generally unhappy people.

“I wish folks who complain would real-ize that they have a life to show up for. If you don’t have a partner, get out there and live your life, get fi t, get interested in things that you like to do and get involved. Go to www.Meetup.com and fi nd an activ-ity that interests you and attend an event or meeting.

“Two months ago, I met a fantastic man, and we are head over heels. I met him on eHarmony, my least favorite site. It’s expensive, which makes me think that people on here are really looking for a true relationship. My new friend is the kindest, most caring man I have ever met.

“He lost his wife suddenly three years ago after a 30-year marriage. So far no red fl ags, and I have been out there a long

book or as an e-book on Amazon.com. However, if our South County readers stop by Tutor and Spunky’s, my Dana Point deli, and purchase a sandwich, I will autograph a free copy and answer their Internet-dating questions.

Tom Blake is a San Clemente resident and Dana Point business owner who has authored three books on middle-aged dating. For dating information: www.FindingLove-After50.com. To comment: [email protected]. CD

M


SJC LIVING

Earth Day Event Draws Local Students

Call of the Wild Comes to Mission San Juan Capistrano

ees, local fruit and solar products converged on San Juan Capist-rano’s seven-hour Earth Day event

today at the city’s gymnasium.Twenty-four vendors attended the

city’s 11th annual fest, giving away recyclable bags and other items to schoolchildren who trickled through the venue. The vendors also shared ways students could conserve and help preserve the planet.

“We try to mix it up so it’s interest-ing,” said Ziad Mazboudi, event organiz-er and San Juan’s senior civil engineer. “There are teachers that come every single year.”

Patty Kingston, who teaches a split second- and third-grade class at Del Obispo Elementary, said she brings her students every year. She estimated

ove is in the air at the Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Leaders at the Mission decided to start piping out the courtship calls of male cliff swallows to attract the birds once known for their annual return on St. Joseph’s Day.

“We’re so excited,” Christina Haaken-son, Mission spokeswoman, “It’s pretty cool.”

In mid-April the cliff swallows vocal-ization experiment began at the sug-gestion of ornithologist Charles Brown, a cliff swallows specialist who has lec-tured at the venue. “When he was here last, he made a professional recommen-dation,” Haakenson said. “Since it had such low impact at Mission San Juan Capistrano, we thought, ‘Why not?’”

So recently, when the weather’s nice, the Mission plays a recording between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The experiment will run about six weeks during the swallow’s mating season and their flight back from the South America where they winter in northern Argentina and Uraguay.

The idea is to bring the birds back to nest in the upper reaches of the old church. Nests haven’t been seen in recent decades.

that about eight classrooms of students would walk from the Camino Del Avion elementary school to the Earth Day event.

“It’s a great outing for the kids,” she said. “They love it.”

The children especially enjoyed receiving food and gadgets from the booths, including strawberries from South Coast Farms at the Ecology Cen-ter’s booth and flying discs from CR&R Waste and Recycling Services, Kingston said.

“Each of the booths gives them really good things,” the teacher said. “They do appreciate it.”

Brennon Flahive of the South Orange County Waste Water Authority talked to students in Stephanie Edinger’s kinder-garten class from Del Obispo Elemen-tary spoke briefly about the work the authority does to keep water clean. CD

A professor at the University of Tulsa, Brown has studied the birds for more than 30 years. He found some of the courtship recordings online and pro-vided them to the Mission.

B

L

Jeff Davis of the Ecology Center quizzes students in Patty Kingston’s second- and third-grade class on the fruits and vegetables they could identify in his basket. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

By Stacie Galang The Capistrano Dispatch

By Stacie Galang The Capistrano Dispatch

Brown made sure the chirpings were in fact the courtship sounds versus others like an alarm call that would have the opposite of the desired effect.

“When you study the birds you notice

the differences,” he said.Brown didn’t know off hand the last

time a nest was spotted at the Mission but said some had fallen when the old church was retrofitted in the 1990s. He first started coming to speak about the swallows in 2000, and no nest remained.

The attempt to bring the birds back will be a challenge because the species has dramatically declined in the area. The swallows are naturally drawn to tall structures, like the old church, and more of them have been built in recent years, he said. Tall trees, not native to the area, also confuse the birds.

“The hope is that as the birds are passing over, it will entice them to fly down, and then they’ll see the church, the old stone church, and then decide to stay,” the professor said.

Years ago, the structure towered over a prairies landscape, said Brown who has seen images of the church from 100 years ago.

“It looked like a big cliff, in essence,” he said. “Now, there’s so much building and urbanization and growth of these really big trees and it’s completely changed the landscape.”

Enthusiastic bird spotters at the Mis-sion have snapped photos of birds and sent them Brown’s way, but none has fit the bill. CD

Mission San Juan Capistrano started broadcasting male courting sounds of swallows to attract the birds to nest in the old church. File photo

The only directory featuring San Juan Capistrano businesses exclusivelyB U S I N E S S D I R E C T O R Y

Locals Only

Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.132131648 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

S U B M I T Y O U R C L A S S I F I E D A D O N L I N E AT W W W .T H E C A P I S T R A N O D I S P AT C H . C O M

CLASSIFIEDS

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

949.682.1667 or email [email protected].

B U S I N E S S • S P O T L I G H T

Independence Bank 949.373.896332291 Camino Capistrano, Suite A, www.independence-bank.net

BANKING

Lightning Technology, Inc. 949.488.002932963 Calle Perfecto, www.lightningtechnology.com

BUSINESS COMPUTER SERVICES

Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design 949.493.363232382 Del Obispo, Ste. C-3, www.abbysdesigns.com

JEWELER

Kitchen & Bath Designs 949.661.408027231 Ortega Hwy., Unit B

KITCHEN DESIGN

Jarvis Restoration 949.362.538831942 Paseo Sagrado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

Vermeulen’s Landscaping Inc. [email protected]

MOLD REMOVAL

LANDSCAPING

Capistrano Health & Life 949.697.9454www.capistranohealthlife.com

MORTGAGE

San Juan Photo & Digital 949.661.566832301 Camino Capistrano, www.sjcphotodigital.com

PHOTO & DIGITAL LAB

A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464www.atozleakdetection.comChick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731www.chicks-plumbing.com Pronto Plumbing (El Plomero) 949.246.358931878 Del Obispo Ste. 118-227, www.prontodrain.comSCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. 949.493.242627126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com

PLUMBING

Dunn-Edwards Painting, Inc. 949.234.120131896 Plaza Dr. Unit D-1, Plaza Del Obispo Center

PAINTING SUPPLIES

Capistrano Health & Life 949.697.9454www.capistranohealthlife.com

INSURANCE

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

EXPERIENCE THE MISSION

Excel Electric - CA #793860 949.493.776932238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, www.excelelectric.com

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORSSan Juan Financial, LLC 949.496.115131726 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. 115, [email protected]

ACCOUNTING/TAX

San Clemente Computer & Network [email protected] 949.276.1581Tired of Waiting I.T. Services [email protected]

COMPUTER SERVICES

Excel Electric 949.493.776932238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, www.excelelectric.com

ELECTRICIANS

GraCorp Coins & Collectibles 949.350.4692www.gracorpcoins.com

COINS

Jarvis Restoration 949.362.538831942 Paseo Sagrado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

WATER DAMAGE

Bryan Krueger Enterprises, Inc. 949.212.049933208 Paseo De Cerveza, Ste. B

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools 949.493.568332032 Del Obispo Street, www.cvcs.org

SCHOOLS

SCP Plumbing/ CuraFlo of O.C. 949.493.242627126 Paseo Espada STE. 705, www.curaflo.com

SLAB LEAK REPAIR

Printing OC 949.388.488827134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

PRINTING

Adelanto Studio Yoga & Life Arts 949.705.734432118 Paseo Adelanto, Ste.9, www.adelantostudio.net

YOGA

Bayside Window Cleaning 949.215.2323 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

WINDOW CLEANING/PRESSURE WASHING

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!

E-mail your garage sale to [email protected] Deadline 5pm Monday

Friess Electric 949.248.422232332 Camino Capistrano, Suite 102

FOR SALEBEAUTIFUL WEDDING GOWN!Size eight strapless beaded and seeded with a dark red sash…In box. Bought in Newport. Paid $3,500.00-. Sell price $500.00 OBO! Call 949-235-1238 or 949-587-1231

YOUR BUSINESS HERE!Sign up to be featured as our monthly

Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100! Write-up of 50 words with logo.


5STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SPORTS& OUTDOORS

5

The Capistrano Dispatch

Trio of JSerra Seniors Commit to Colleges

hree JSerra student athletes — Sunness Jones, Hailey Prescher and Kyle Willis — picked their next

destination for both an education and their chance to compete at the highest level in their respected sports.

Jones, the Lions’ softball team captain, is headed to Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania where she is considered the school’s No. 1 recruit.

“I am so excited to see all my hard work over the last 13 years to have amounted to something tangible,” Jones said in a news release.

Primarily used as a pitcher, the senior appeared for the Lions in 16 games this season, logging a 3-10 record. She also batted an impressive .393 and knocked in 12 RBIs.

Willis was JSerra’s top distance runner this past year and has committed to the

U.S. Men vs. Argentina, JSerra PavilionApril 29, 2 p.m.

The U.S. Men’s National Indoor Volleyball Team plays Argentina in exhibition matches at the state-of-the-art JSerra Pavilion.Info: jserravball.eventbrite.

com

5 BEST BETSStallions vs. Mustangs,Trabuco Hills HighApril 27, 3:15 p.m.

As regular season play winds downs, San Juan Hills High faces Sea View League rival Trabuco Hills High in an away game.Info: sjhstallions.com

FC Dallas vs. LA Galaxy, Home Depot CenterApril 28, 7:30 p.m.

It’s been a tough start to 2012 for the Galaxy, but the team hopes to turn its fortunes by pulling off a win against FC Dallas.Info: www.lagalaxy.com

Twins vs. Angels,Angel StadiumApril 30, 7:05 p.m.

Following fi ve games on the road against the Rays and Indians, the Angels return home to start a series with Min-nesota.Info: www.losangeles.

angels.mlb.com

BASEBALL SOCCER BASEBALL VOLLEYBALL SOFTBALL

Stallions vs. Cougars,San Juan Hills HighApril 30, 3:30 p.m.

After their previous match-up was post-poned, San Juan Hill’s girls meet Capo Valley High on the diamond in late season Sea View League action.Info: sjhstallions.com

T

he San Juan Hills Stallion Boosters will hold a golf event at San Juan Hills Golf Club Friday, May 18 to

benefi t the athletic program. The Stal-lion Golf Classic will feature a Mexican buffet dinner to go along with a silent auction and of course, the golf.

Prizes will be offered for the fi rst-,

pril proved positive for San Juan Hills High.

Not only did the Stallions usher in a new era with the grand opening of its aquatics facility April 23, but the high school celebrated a playoff berth and a much-deserved league victory.

Boys volleyball also earned a spot at CIF playoffs with their win over El Toro April 19 and placed second in league with a 3-1 win over Aliso Viejo April 25.

t. Margaret’s student athletes from four different teams will be honored Tuesday, May 1 in front

of a crowd that will be a little bit bigger than they are accustomed to.

Come Tuesday, several Tartans will be on the fi eld and under the bright lights of Angel Stadium to take part in a CIF ceremony that acknowledges teams with the highest grade point averages in their respective sports.

The CIF has chosen the Tartan wres-tling, girls golf, girls basketball and girls track and fi eld squads to come onto the fi eld in a pre game ceremony to be acknowledged before the Angels play the visiting Minnesota Twins.

second- and third-place teams but the one prize everyone will be gunning for is the hole-in-one contest. If any of the competitors cards an ace during the round, the player will win a new Infi nity.

The entrance fee is $150 per golfer or $500 per foursome. For more info, email [email protected]. CD

The Stallion boys tennis program won its fi rst ever league match versus Laguna Hills April 19, according to the school’s athletic website. The varsity team won 10-8 and the junior varsity team won 12-6. Varsity singles won eight of nine sets and Dillon Kohler and Graham Thomas won two of three doubles sets to steal the win. For more information, visit sjhstallions.com. CD

The girls basketball team’s GPA stands at 3.85, the girls golf team at 3.73 and the girls track and fi eld team at 3.74.

The Tartan wrestling team, which has undergone a revival lately, sent six wrestlers to CIF this year and boasts a 3.625 collective GPA.

To qualify for the award, teams had to have a collective GPA of at least a 3.0. There were 1,323 entries submitted.

Although the entire team will be there, one coach and one player will be selected from each Tartan team to go out onto the fi eld and soak in the ap-plause from the thousands that are sure to be in attendance. CD

SJH BOOSTERS TO HOST GOLF TOURNEY

STALLIONS CELEBRATE APRIL SUCCESS

TARTANS TO BASK IN LIMELIGHT OF ANGELS STADIUM

T

A

S

University of California, Irvine to run. Prescher, a standout volleyball player

for the Lions, will have to the southeast next fall when she heads to Florida Southern College.

“I’m excited, even though it’s far away from home,” Prescher said in a news release. “I will miss my team [at JSerra] and coach [Katie Wildermuth], she is like a sister to me.” CD

Surrounded by her coaches and parents, JSerra senior Sunness Jones commits to Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania. Courtesy photo

Hailey Prescher will play volleyball for Florida Southern College and signs her intent letter with her parents and coaches. Courtesy photo

Documents

The Capistrano Dispatch