OCTOBER 13 - OCTOBER 26, 2023 | VOLUME 21, ISSUE 19
INSIDE: AGING WELL SPECIAL SECTION
Aging W ell
FOR TH
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G AT HE
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Inside: Revolutio ni Senior Li zing ving
Waterma rk Laguna Niguel’s Be spoke Approach to Dining , Wellness and Comm unity
Decade of Development
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Local Res ident Prov ides Private Sessions to Help Old er Adults with Tech nology
Rancho Mission Viejo Celebrates 10th Anniversary E Y E O N R M V/ PAG E 10
The Rancho Mission Viejo community spans three different villages, with more developments to come eastward in the newest village of Rienda. Photo: Zone57
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City Approves New License Plate Readers, Security Cameras
Council Honors Retiring Native American Storyteller
High School Football Teams Open League Strong
EYE ON SJC/ PAGE 4
EYE ON SJC/ PAGE 6
SPORTS / PAGE 38
18th Annual
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The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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EYE ON SJC
Autumnal Activities, Events Kick Off in South Orange County BY BREEANA GREENBERG
As late September marked the official start of fall, South Orange County cities are kicking off “spooky season” with a slate of fun, family-friendly events throughout October. San Juan Capistrano The San Juan Capistrano Mission will display its Dia de los Muertos Altar through Nov. 5 in the 18th century historic Sala. The space offers a place for those to remember their loved ones by placing their names on the Día de los Muertos altar, or ofrenda. Throughout the weekend before Halloween, the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society will host its Ghosts and Legends tour. Walking down historic Los Rios Street, attendees will interact with 10 “ghostly visitors” who will share their stories. Tickets can be purchased at sjcghosttour.com. Haunted Orange County will also offer guided ghost walks throughout the streets of old San Juan Capistrano throughout the month of October. Attendees will hear the stories of spirits from the Old Los Rios District as they make their way along Camino Capistrano to the outskirts of the Mission. The 1½-hour tour is recommended for those over the age of 12. Tickets can be purchased at haundedoc.com. San Clemente From Oct. 12 through 15, Friends of San Clemente Foundation will kick off celebrations in San Clemente with its Carnival Colossal and Food Truck Festival. The event will feature live entertainment, rides and a strong man and strong woman competition, hosted at the Vista Hermosa Sports Park. Tickets are available for purchase at the San Clemente Community Center, Ole Hanson Beach Club and San Clemente Aquatics Center. Kids of all ages can get a jump-start on trick or treating in downtown San Clemente as they walk along Avenida Del Mar on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 4-6 p.m. Businesses with a purple balloon outside their shop signals that they’re offering treats to those who stop by.
COMMUNITY MEETINGS One is the Halloween Spooktacular inside the Dana Point Community Center, featuring a maze, live music, games, treats and more. “The City of Dana Point’s Halloween Spooktacular and Trunk or Treat will feature the usual haunts and some new additions for the public,” Jeff Rosaler, deputy director of Community Services, said in an email. “The ever-popular maze will be constructed in the gym for those who are brave enough; the maze will be open from 2 p.m.- 6 p.m. in the gym at the Community Center.” Rosaler added that the Tailspins and the Moondog Miller Band will perform with live sets occurring every hour on the hour. The community center gym will also feature a spooky-themed ’80s arcade. Outside, Dana Point Police Services will be hosting its annual Trunk or Treat. “Police Services vehicles and your favorite Sheriff Department staff will be on hand to pass out treats,” Rosaler said. “Also outside this year, an inflatable slide will be available for kids to get their wiggles out, as well as other crafts such as cookie-decorating brought to you by the Dana Point Recreation Staff.” The City of Dana Point and Dana Point Youth Baseball will operate the snack bar for food and refreshments. Together, they will conduct a game of Wiffle ball on the Pony baseball diamond and a fundraising dunk tank to raise funds for the team’s travel expenses. Those interested in attending the various events in the three South OC cities can visit sanjuancapistrano.org, danapoint.org or san-clemente.org for more information.
Celebrating healthy choices and being drug-free, the city and Friends of San Clemente Foundation will host the annual Red Ribbon Parade followed by a community safety fair on the Community Center lawn for National Night Out on Monday, Oct. 23, from 4-7 p.m. For adults over 21 years of age, the Casa Romantica is hosting a Halloween party featuring spooky trivia, a candy bar, specialty-themed cocktails and a live DJ on Oct. 26-27. The following day, City of San Clemente and the Friends of San Clemente Foundation will host their annual Monster Dash 5K and Creepy Crawl fun run on Saturday, Oct. 28, featuring awards for race winners and best family-appropriate costumes. The event will start at the San Clemente Community Center at 7 a.m. and will run until 11 a.m. Dana Point The Ocean Institute’s Spooky Seas event returns on Oct. 21, featuring Harbor Hayrides aboard the R/V Sea Explorer, Bioluminescence Laser Tag, a mad scientist lab and a haunted tour aboard the Spirit of Dana Point. Attendees can enjoy live music, food and beverages and a costume contest. Tickets can be purchased at oceaninstitute.org. Leading up to Halloween, children up to 12 years old can participate in Dana Point’s annual Great Pumpkin Decorating Contest by sending a photo of their decorated pumpkin to recreation@ danapoint.org by Monday, Oct. 23, for a chance to receive a special Halloween gift basket. Pumpkins do not need to be carved. This year, the City of Dana Point’s recreation division is partnering with Police Services to host two family-friendly events on Saturday, Oct. 28.
SATURDAY, OCT. 14
Challenging Cancer 10-11:30 a.m. The Challenging Cancer group is conducting weekly meetings through Zoom video conferences. The meetings are open to caregivers, people who have a compromised immune system, and people dealing with cancer. To join, email donnavigil2@gmail.com or linda_crdv@ yahoo.com. heritagesc.org. Citizens’ Climate Education 10:45 a.m.-noon. This nonpartisan climate action group holds monthly meetings on the second Saturday of the month through Zoom video conferences. Email larrykramerccl@ gmail.com to receive a link to join. MONDAY, OCT. 16
Parks, Equestrian and Community Services Commission 5:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Parks, Equestrian, and Community Services Commission will hold a regularly scheduled meeting open to the public. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org. TUESDAY, OCT. 17
City Council 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano City Council will hold a regularly scheduled meeting at the Nydegger Building. Members of the public can either attend in person or watch the livestreamed version online at sanjuancapistrano.org. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org. Because I Love You (BILY) 6:30-8:30 p.m. The organization Because I Love You (BILY), which helps parents navigate through whatever parenting challenges they may be facing (e.g., failure to launch, substance misuse, disrespect), conducts its weekly meetings on Tuesdays via Zoom video conference and in person/Zoom the first Tuesday of each month at the Outlets at San Clemente’s Conference Room. For detailed instructions on how to participate, email bilysanclemente@gmail.com. WEDNESDAY, OCT. 18
Nomination Period Opens for Veterans of the Year Awards
aims to honor veterans, reservists and active-duty servicemembers who contributed to the U.S. military through music, and going above and beyond the call of duty, Foley said in a media release. Those interested in submitting a veteran’s name for consideration can visit Foley’s website to fill out the nomination form. Nominees should reside in the county’s Fifth District or have significantly contributed to the area and are eligible if they have served in the military on active duty or reserves for any length of time. The deadline to submit nominations is Oct. 27 at 5 p.m. The awards event is scheduled for Nov. 9 at 6 p.m.
BY BREEANA GREENBERG
Seeking to honor veterans of South Orange County, Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Katrina Foley recently announced that the period to nominate individuals for her third annual Veterans of the Year Awards has opened. This year’s Veterans of the Year Awards theme is “The Call to Serve: Recognizing The Roles Musicians & Buglers Play In The Military.” The theme
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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VA Disabled Claims Clinic 2-4 p.m. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 9934 will sponsor a Veterans Affairs Disability Claims Clinic at the Dana Point Community Center the first and third Wednesday of each month. Veterans can walk in and meet with a VFW Service Officer and receive information on how to file a claim for service-related medical issues. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point. CUSD Board of Trustees 7 p.m. The governing board for the Capistrano Unified School District will convene for a workshop meeting. CUSD Headquarters, 33122 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano. capousd.org.
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EYE ON SJC
COMMUNITY MEETINGS
FRIDAY, OCT. 20
Coffee Chat 8:30 a.m. A town hall forum on community issues. The first Friday session of the month will be held virtually via Zoom video conference; all other Friday forums will take place in person at Hennessey’s Tavern in San Juan Capistrano, 31761 Camino Capistrano. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for information.
TUESDAY, OCT. 24
Cultural Heritage Commission 4:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Cultural Heritage Commission will publicly meet to discuss agenda items and matters pertaining to city business. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 25
Learning English Class 10-11:30 a.m. The La Playa Center is hosting free English classes for adults on Wednesdays. Students will be provided materials and workbooks. La Sala Auditorium, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. crossculturalcouncil.com. Planning Commission 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission will publicly meet to discuss agenda items and matters pertaining to city business. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org. THURSDAY, OCT. 26
Design Review Committee 4:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Design Review Committee will hold a regularly scheduled meeting open to the public. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.
FRIDAY, OCT. 27
The next print edition of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.
City Council Approves License Plate Readers, Surveillance Cameras BY BREEANA GREENBERG
After determining the city’s current use of license plate readers installed last year was a success, the City of San Juan Capistrano approved additional license plate readers and safety cameras to be installed in public parks and facilities, as well as at various traffic signals around town. In a 4-1 vote with Mayor Howard Hart against, the city approved the installation of an additional 10 license plate readers and 20 safety cameras during the Oct. 3 City Council meeting. During the 2022-23 Fiscal Year, San Juan Capistrano purchased 10 automated license plate readers that were installed at key entrances and exits to the city. The license plate readers are solar-powered and capture “unique vehicle information” such as the license plate, color and make and model of the vehicle. During the Oct. 3 meeting, Chief of Police Services Capt. Justin Montano explained that the license plate readers have already proven to be a valuable asset to policing. “We’ve seen many, many success stories with (the existing license plate readers), but for brevity, I just want to speak to a couple of them,” Montano said. In March, the Flock license plate cameras helped to aid in the identification of two suspects who were seen driving into a 24 Hour Fitness parking lot, breaking into a car and stealing $1,000 worth of items from the vehicle. “(Investigators) did a Flock search … and that resulted in identifying the suspects’ vehicle,” Montano said. “From that, investigators were able to ID who they were, file the case and ultimately, the District Attorney filed multiple felony charges against them.” The Flock cameras came in handy again in June, when deputies were alerted to a stolen vehicle driving through town that they located in the Target parking lot, Montano said. Deputies took two suspects into custody and were able to recover over $1,000 in stolen merchandise from that Target, Montano said. “Again, many more instances like this, but I just wanted to cover a couple for you,” Montano said. The additional 10 license plate readers are slated to be installed along Stonehill Drive and Camino Capistrano: •Two cameras at northbound Camino Capistrano at Stone Hill Drive • Two cameras at southbound Camino Capistrano at Stone Hill Drive • One camera at northbound Camino Capistrano at Saddleback Church • One camera at southbound Camino Capistrano at Saddleback Church
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
• Two cameras at northbound Camino Capistrano at I-5 Freeway off-ramp • Two cameras at southbound Camino Capistrano at San Juan Creek Road The 10 existing license plate readers cost the city $28,000 annually for license fees. The city will incur a $113,500 one-time installation fee and annual license fee this year for the new license plate readers and a one-time fee of $80,000 for installation for the security cameras, according to the staff report. Neighboring cities in South Orange County such as San Clemente, Dana Point and Laguna Niguel already use cameras to aid in policing, Montano said. Montano added that he believed the installation of security cameras at parks and facilities in San Juan Capistrano could help deter and solve crimes within the city. “Criminals are less likely to commit a crime if they know cameras are in our city,” Montano said. “Cameras can also help deputies and investigators solve crimes by providing that footage of the crime scene and also footage of the suspect, and again we’ve seen multiple cases of that.” The security cameras would be able to provide live video footage, can pan, tilt and zoom and capture footage from about 300 feet away from where it’s located to assist law enforcement with investigations. The cameras are set to be installed in public parks, facilities and at traffic signals around town: • Two cameras at San Juan Capistrano Sports Park • One camera at Historic Town Center Park • Two cameras at Northwest Open Space Community Park – “Putuidem Village” • Two cameras at Los Rios Park • Two cameras at the Train Depot • Two cameras at Cook Park La Novia • Three cameras at Descanso Park and the Police Services Building • One camera at the traffic signal at La Zanja and Camino Capistrano • One camera at the traffic signal at Del Obispo and Camino Capistrano • One camera at the traffic signal at Ortega Highway and Interstate 5 Freeway • One camera at the traffic signal at Junipero Serra and Camino Capistrano • One camera at the traffic signal at Ortega Highway and Rancho Viejo Road • One camera at the traffic signal at Rancho Viejo Road and Junipero Serra There will be signage notifying residents and visitors that the area is under surveillance, staff noted, which Montano noted would ideally act as a crime deterrent. Video footage collected by the Flock cameras will only be accessible by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department as part of ongoing investigations, Assistant City Manager Matisse Reischl explained. Flock retains video footage from security cameras for 30 days and license plate data for one year. Answering Councilmemebr John Taylor’s
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question about facial recognition, Montano noted that the Orange County Sheriff’s Department does not use or plan to use facial recognition technology. Hart cited privacy concerns as his reason for voting against the installation of security cameras and license plate readers. “I appreciate that people will always choose safety over liberty, it seems like,” Hart said. “As Councilmember (Troy) Bourne has so eloquently pointed out, there’s a constant tension between the two.” “What we’re doing is taking a big step towards eroding people’s privacy and people’s liberty when we move towards this as a means of enhancing security,” Hart continued. “We can justify it, but we can’t deny it.” Mayor Pro Tem Sergio Farias noted that if people wanted to protect their privacy, they should start with their cellphones. “It’s amazing how much information your phones, our phones, get from us even when you’re not directly inputting it,” Farias said. “It’s amazing how much of that privacy is eroded more by our own choosing.” “I think what we’re talking about here is cameras, public safety, and that is something that I’m supportive of to protect the streets of San Juan Capistrano and our facilities and our law enforcement,” Farais continued. Bourne noted that the decision is a slippery slope, asking Montano what’s to stop OCSD from returning in the future to request more and more cameras. “It’s always going to be one step safer, one step more expensive, one step more invasive,” Bourne said. Montano noted that if he did come back in the future to request more cameras, he’d bring data to back up the request. “We’re not the first ones doing this; all of my other chief counterparts–almost all of them– have them,” Montano said. “They use them.” Adding 20 cameras, Montano added, will give the city some data on the camera’s effectiveness. “I’ll be honest with you guys, I’m very sensitive of people thinking that it’s Big Brother and we want to surveil everybody; that’s not the case,” Montano said. “We don’t have somebody in an office just looking at surveillance cameras. We don’t. This is a reactive approach right now for my investigators and my deputies.” Councilmember John Campbell noted that he was leaning toward Bourne’s perspective that the more cameras the city installs, “the more egregious the sort of the lack of our freedom is.” “I’m not comfortable having big government looking down my back, either, but I look at the safety issues that are involved, I look at the overall benefits to our community and … I’m very comfortable at this level in having cameras available to law enforcement,” Campbell said. “I will be very interested in that oneyear report that Councilmember Taylor discussed to understand how effective they are,” Campbell continued. thecapistranodispatch.com
EYE ON SJC
A Beacon of Service: Leticia Torres Recognized for 30 Years as San Juan Capistrano Community Services Officer BY HAYZE LAW
After three decades as the Community Services Officer in San Juan Capistrano, Leticia “Leti” Torres was honored with an award and recognized for her service by the City Council last month. In a Sept. 19 presentation given by Capt. Justin Montano, Chief of San Juan Capistrano Police Services, Torres was acknowledged for her pivotal role in the city and her admirable qualities as a mother, role model and leader. “You have served our community with compassion, dedication and professionalism,” Montano said. In a heartfelt speech, he went on to explain how Torres has vitally impacted Police Services, as well as the greater community, since first joining local law enforcement in San Juan Capistrano in April 1993. Mayor Howard Hart presented Torres with a plaque symbolizing the city’s deep gratitude for her years of service, and in response, Torres humbly expressed her thanks. “It’s been great. I’ve loved every minute
St. Margaret’s Announces $45 Million Fundraising Campaign for New Commons, Renovations BY C. JAYDEN SMITH
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School recently announced a massive fundraising campaign to build a new Commons facility that would serve its students’ physical needs in a variety of ways and include other structural projects on the San Juan Capistrano campus. The centerpiece of “Tartans Thrive,” as the private school calls the $45 million campaign, would be the construction of a new, 30,000-square foot building for a student body of just over 1,200. The St. Mar-
of it,” said Torres, who added, “I’ve enjoyed working here, and I get to talk to different people in the community every day. It’s great encounters … I really enjoy that.” According to Montano, Torres’ influence extends beyond her professional life, as she is also the mother of two exemplary children who are going on to lead lives of service of their own—a son serving as a reserve in the Marines and a daughter undergoing boot camp in the Navy. Torres is seen as a multi-hyphenate in her role, Montano said. Throughout her tenure, he added, she has taken on numerous responsibilities, often going the extra mile, literally and figuratively. She has been a vigilant presence on the streets of San Juan Capistrano, patrolling both the downtown areas and residential communities, ensuring the safety of her fellow residents. Her daily tasks have involved overseeing and managing a wide range of incidents, from traffic accidents to parking issues. In a city where parking is a significant concern, her task can be challenging, but the unique character in her approach is what sets her apart, Montano noted. “She does all this with a friendly smile and a very positive attitude–anybody who knows her can attest to that,” said Montano. In one poignant anecdote, Montano recalled a defining moment of Torres’ career. At the past Fourth of July carnival and celebration, she and her trainee found themselves in a precarious situation as a large group of disruptive juveniles threatened the peace. Torres, realizing the potential volatility, made a quick decision
to evacuate the police booth, securing sensitive items and checking the security of the utility vehicle used for patrolling the hills. Her actions, performed amid the growing crowd and uncertainty, demonstrated exceptional situational awareness, as well as commitment to safeguarding city assets and her colleagues in a dynamic situation, Montano said. In his closing remarks, Montano praised
Torres for her experience and leadership. He highlighted her role in preventing countless accidents and injuries, emphasizing her contribution to the smooth flow of traffic and overall safety of San Juan Capistrano. “You are a vital part of police services and the community,” said Montano. “It goes without saying, we are so grateful for your service, dedication and friendship throughout the years.”
garet’s Commons would include a great hall for dining with multiple food stations and a to-go counter; a sports performance center with a room for sports medicine; rooms for cardio, performance and recovery; and a large theater-style room for film-watching, among other features. The campaign also calls for renovations and relocations of existing buildings and classrooms, along with the completion of a security and maintenance building. The fundraising total would also support the school’s endowment. Dr. Jeneen Graham, head of St. Margaret’s, said the school and the new building will continue its practices to help students thrive by fostering community and healthy habits. “Research informs us that social, emotional and physical health are key factors impacting learning and development in children,” Graham said. “It is essential for us to create programs and environments that are geared towards healthy living and positive social engagement for our
students.” St. Margaret’s began acquiring the necessary land and performing building renovations in 2019, according to the school, and expects to break ground on the project in July 2024. The projected opening date for the Commons is fall 2026. Patrick Bendzick, assistant head of school for health and wellness, said the project development had been a long time coming, sparked by a focus on being “student-centered” in the school’s general approach. “It started a few years back, prior to the pandemic, where we were running these ethnographic interviews with our students, asking them about their student experience,” Bendzick said. “(We asked them) if they could wave the magic wand, what would they want at a school? And the idea of a place for health and wellness and food came up a lot with our students.” With the subject of health and wellness a component of St. Margaret’s strategic plan, the feedback from students led
the administration to move forward. Bendzick added that the school talked at length about how to best set up a food service that would make food for the whole population and the most innovative ways to enhance students’ athletic success. The St. Margaret’s community is “nothing short of extraordinary,” he said, referring to other previous campaigns that expanded the campus at its current state. “When we introduce these types of ideas to them, they fully back us and fully back the idea that the school needs to continue to evolve, and that the needs of kids change …” Bendzick said. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community. We have no doubt that they’ll be able to put this together.” St. Margaret’s has created a new website, tartansthrive.org, dedicated to informing its community about the new campaign and how people can support the school’s efforts.
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
(From left) Sgt. Jon Larson, Community Services Officer Leticia “Leti” Torres, and Capt. Justin Montano pose for a photo after Torres received a recognition plaque for her 30 years of dedicated service during the City Council’s meeting on Sept. 19. Photo: Courtesy of City of San Juan Capistrano
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EYE ON SJC
Family, Friends Gather to Commemorate Deputy Haney with Memorial Dedication BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO
Leslee Haney fought back tears as she spoke about how her infant son Cole will never remember any of the experiences he shared with his father, the late Deputy Brian Haney. But thanks to a new plaque adorning a memorial rock at the base of a new flagpole at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, Cole—who was only 1 month old when his dad passed away—can someday understand the deputy’s impact on the town in which he served. “I know that our son Cole may not understand everything right now. And he won’t remember his dad, remember his dad and his own experiences, but things like this memorial will help him realize how important and special his daddy was, not just to our little family but to everyone around him,” a grieving Leslee said during a ceremony on Sept. 22. Brian, who had been with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department since 2016 and was a member of the Critical Incident Response Team in San Juan Capistrano, died in a traffic collision in Lake Elsinore on Feb. 9. To commemorate Brian and his service to the town, the San Juan Capistrano City Council voted in early August to approve
Council Honors Retiring Native American Storyteller BY C. JAYDEN SMITH
After devoting 32 years to teaching South Orange County and many beyond about her heritage as a member of the Acjachemen Nation, Jacque Tahuka-Nunez’s efforts were recognized by the City of San Juan Capistrano on Tuesday night, Oct. 3. At the San Juan Capistrano City Council meeting, Mayor Howard Hart spoke about Tahuka-Nunez, who is retiring from her company, Journeys to the Past, and passing it on to her son. Through her company, she made countless appearances at schools, performing arts centers and more, presenting the daily lives of ancestors in the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation 84A. “Her partnerships in Southern California include surrounding tribes, school districts, our State Parks and Native American educational entities that respect her work and
plans to erect the flagpole and construct the memorial dedication at the community center. The city held last month’s ceremony to unveil the memorial, with Brian’s family, including Leslee, Cole and his parents, Gary and Wendy Haney, in attendance. Joining them were dozens of Brian’s fellow deputies and OCSD officials such as Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes and Capt. Justin Montano, the Chief of San Juan Capistrano Police Services. “It’s fitting that we honor Brian Haney’s memory with a flagpole, because as much as Brian was irreplaceable to his family and loved ones, talented and patriotic servicemembers such as U.S. Air Force Airman Haney are such a rare breed in our society,” Mayor Howard Hart said. “And it is so fitting that the flagpole be erected near the entrance to our soon-tobe Council Chambers, because those of us who are given the honor of occupying those chambers would do well to remember that we serve a city that is kept safe by dedicated, loyal and disciplined deputies such as Brian Haney,” Hart added. Sheriff Barnes echoed that sentiment, noting that the dedication was not only a fitting tribute to Brian, but also fulfilled a promise to the Haney family that the department and city wouldn’t forget the public servant whose life was cut short seven months ago. “It probably, at times, feels like seven minutes. And probably, at times, feels like seven years, as we go through the many emotions that you feel and we feel with you knowing Brian, and it doesn’t get any easier in doing that,” Barnes said. Regarding the memorial plaque’s im-
pact on the town and future generations, Barnes said he would like young kids entering the community center to see it, learn about Brian and potentially be inspired to answer the call of public service. “That they’ll honor him by knowing what integrity stands for, maybe wanting to emulate him in his public service, and entering into one of the many proud professions that fulfill that obligation,” Barnes said. Expressing hope for the future, Barnes said he would one day like for Brian’s family and his friends at the sheriff’s department to be able to replace their grief with cherished memories of Brian. “My hope for the family, specifically, and the team in San Juan Capistrano, is that as time goes on, your grief is replaced with fond memories of Brian and you’re
able to feel a little less pain,” Barnes said, adding: “My hope is that the pain subsides over time, and you restore it to the great memories of Brian provided for you and shared together.” Before she received from Hart the American flag as a memorial to Brian, Leslee expressed gratitude to those who supported the family over the past seven months and had worked to make the dedication possible. As for Cole, Leslee went on to note that in addition to the plaque, he’ll have Brian’s friends, family and professional partners around to learn more about his dad’s commitment to serving the public. “Friends, (Brian’s) impact on this community,” Leslee said, as well as, “family and partners will teach Cole how special his dad was.”
have brought her throughout the state of California, sharing not only history but the intrinsic lessons of believing in yourself, celebrating your culture and celebrating your neighbor’s culture, too,” Hart said. He also listed her career accomplishments, which include being recognized as Educator of the Year in 2007, 2009, 2015 and 2019 by the California American Indian State Conference, the Orange County Department of Education and other entities. Tahuka-Nunez was also inducted in the International Educators’ Hall of Fame in 2018. Over the course of her career, she dazzled audiences with her vocal undulations, singing, dancing and storytelling abilities. That started in San Juan Capistrano when she began performing as Mrs. Claus at Christmastime tree lightings, and as her career continued, her name would be placed on the city’s Wall of Honor in 2015. Tahuka-Nunez started her Native American storytelling journey when she noticed that her children were being bullied at school for having long, braided hair, and she felt the need to share her family’s histo-
ry with others. “Every child needs to feel that their family is of worth, and so my program morphed into this hidden message of, ‘You are special. Your family is special; if you speak another language, that is special; if you eat different food, that is special! Begin to look at your neighbor, and to know who they are, and celebrate them.’” She continued, saying she felt that God led her to change the South County community for the better. Once Tahuka-Nunez began to tell others about her heritage, her program grew to where she traveled up and down California and out of state to give presentations. It signified that what she was doing was more than just representing her own tribe, she said. However, her journey required commitment and perseverance in spreading information that wasn’t always well-received and thought of as important three decades ago. “Early on, the Orange County Department of Education embraced me and promoted my program,” said Tahuka-Nunez.
“It took (time for people) to buy in and see that I had done my work, and made sure that my program aligned with other curriculum.” She still has a written curriculum she wants to publish in the near future, but with respect to receiving credit for her career as a whole, the recognition has been meaningful. It speaks to more than just her life, but that of her mother, as well, who was taken from her own home and sent to a boarding school in the 1930s. “She was made to feel that it was not OK to be a Native American,” Tahuka-Nunez said. “To be acknowledged for my education (and) for my contributions, I feel it heals the many generations that were not respected, that were not embraced.” At the council meeting, she also gave the councilmembers candy bars and bookmarks with an inspirational quote from one of her poems as a thank you for her recognition. “Whether it was to thousands in a theater or one student at a time, Jackie, you’ve truly made a difference,” Mayor Hart said. “Thank you so much.”
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
During a memorial dedication in honor of the late Deputy Brian Haney outside the San Juan Capistrano Community Center on Sept. 22, Leslee Haney fights back tears as she speaks about her husband, who also leaves behind their infant son Cole. Photo: Shawn Raymundo
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EYE ON SJC
SJC Little League’s $60K Donation to Bring New Scoreboard to Community Sports Park BY HAYZE LAW
In a significant display of community partnership and support for local sports, the San Juan Capistrano Little League (SJCLL) is donating $60,000, through generous contributions of families from the league, to the city for the purpose of installing a brand-new scoreboard at Field 4 of the San Juan Sports Park. As part of its consent calendar—bulked agenda items approved in one single vote—the City Council on Sept. 19 unanimously approved the philanthropic gesture, which is intended to fund the design, purchase and installation of the scoreboard. Founded in 1952, SJCLL is older than the city’s incorporation, as San Juan Capistrano only joined the greater Orange County area in 1961. It’s been a stalwart provider of youth baseball programs to local children, becoming the multigenerational fixture of the community that it is today.
“You’ve got people that have been playing in this league that were players … then coaches … then watched their kids play, and then watched their grandkids play,” said SJCLL Past-President Christian Larsen. “We have a lot of loyal members and parents.” To further enhance the functionality of the athletic fields at the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park, SJCLL submitted the proposal for the installation of the modern scoreboard at Field 4, or SP4, in a formal letter to the City Council. “Our Little League is excited to give back to our community and feel this scoreboard would be a wonderful addition to our sports park,” San Juan Capistrano Little League Board President Mandi Shearer wrote in the donation request letter. Detailing the cost breakdown of the seven-inning scoreboard, Shearer explained that the allocation of funds will go toward design, electrical work, trenching, foundations, columns and installation. While the estimated cost of the design and permitting of the scoreboard is $10,000, the estimated cost of the installation, trenching, and other aspects, including taxes and shipping, is $50,000. In her proposal of a two-phase approach, Phase 1 involves fully funding the design of the project for a total of $10,000, and Phase 2’s donation will fund purchasing and installation, based on vendor quotes per the
The City Council on Sept. 19 approved a $60,000 donation from the San Juan Capistrano Little League for a new scoreboard to be installed on Field 4 at the San Juan Sports Park. Photo: File/Collin Breaux
approved drawing set. The proposed scoreboard manufacturer, Nevco, has a strong track record in the industry and is the same vendor that designed and installed the existing Hausdorfer Field scoreboard in June of 2022, the city noted in its agenda report. In terms of the community benefit and accessibility, the addition of the scoreboard at SP4 will not be exclusive to the San Juan Capistrano Little League, as the field is multipurpose and will be available to all user groups, thereby benefiting a wide range of community members. According to Larsen, the board is work-
ing in conjunction with the city to make many new renovations to the fields and SJCLL in general—many of which will begin to take shape next spring. During the renovation period, community members can expect to see new grass at the Sports Park, among other updates. The endeavor, along with others to come, is meant to enhance the sporting experience for local youth and provide a valuable resource that will benefit the entire community. “The scoreboard is really a small piece to the whole puzzle we’ve been working on,” said Larsen.
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EYE ON RMV
EVENTS AT THE RANCH SATURDAY, OCT. 14
TRAIL CLEARING & WEEDING
8 a.m.-11 p.m. Volunteer to spend a few hours in beautiful surroundings helping The Nature Reserve. Join the crew dedicated to protecting the native ecosystems by clearing trails, restoring habitats, and eliminating weeds, as volunteer efforts make an impact. Bring work gloves if you have them. The Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy. thenaturereserve.org/events.
FALL BIRD SAFARI
8 a.m.-11 p.m. It’s October Big Day, a time to unite through a shared love of birds. Enjoy a fall morning with docent and bird expert Gary Meredith while quietly combing The Nature Reserve for resident and migrant birds. This is a Birding 101, safari-style event and will partially take place alongside a private road overlooking oak groves, grasslands and more. Participants will initially drive on the road from site to site to look and listen for a variety of birds and later take a stroll to view other birds on our trails. The Nature Reserve encourages participants to wear neutral/natural colored clothing and to bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them. Binoculars will also be available at the event. Registration is $15 for adults and $10 for children. The Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy. thenaturereserve.org/events. TUESDAY, OCT. 17
TUESDAY AFTERNOON OPEN ACCESS ON CHIQUITA RIDGE
2-5 p.m. This is a moderate to strenuous trail with hills that follow the ridgeline between Sendero and Esencia. The trail length is 2.2 miles (one way) and is recommended for those 10 and older. These openaccess events are for Rancho Mission Viejo residents only. Chiquita Ridge. thenaturereserve.org/events. FRIDAY, OCT. 20
YMCA DATE NIGHT
6-10 p.m. Date Nights offer parents with some needed time to themselves while kids have a party of their own. Children must be at least 4 years old and potty-trained. Children will enjoy outdoor play, games, crafts, dinner, treats, and a movie. The theme this month is Monster Mash. $45 per child/$25 for siblings. Register at ymcaoc.org/ rancho-mission-viejo/. The Canyon House Studio. pdarden@ymcaoc.org. SATURDAY, OCT. 21
INTERNATIONAL OBSERVE THE MOON NIGHT
7-9 p.m. International Observe the Moon Night (InOMN) is an annual worldwide public event that encourages observation, appreciation, and understanding of our moon. Enjoy an evening outdoors, as you gaze into the skies, learn about the moon and the constellations. Participants must be registered or on the waitlist by 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 20. Registration is $10 for adultsnand $5 for children. The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo Headquarters. thenaturereserve.org/events. TUESDAY, OCT. 24
COFFEE, TEA AND THE BIRDS
8-11 a.m. Calling bird watchers of all levels– beginners to experts. The Nature Reserve invites you to migrate over for a morning of bird watching on a trail in Rancho Mission Viejo. Observe on your own, or with staff and volunteers. Complimentary tea and coffee provided. Bring your own reusable mug. Nature Reserve mugs will also be available for purchase for $10. Ranch Camp, Rienda. thenaturereserve.org/events.
READING WITH REPTILES
9-10 a.m. Join Rosy the snake and Buckwheat the tortoise for a fun morning at The Nature House. The Nature Reserve will be reading a nature-themed book, playing games, and visiting with reptiles. Ranch Camp, Rienda. thenaturereserve.org/events.
Rancho Mission Viejo Recognizes 10-Year Anniversary BY C. JAYDEN SMITH
It’s been 10 years since residents and families first began moving into the village of Sendero, the initial community built in the 23,000 acres that comprises Rancho Mission Viejo. To mark the occasion, RanchLife–the community’s outreach branch–is planning to host several signature events that celebrate the anniversary, and Rancho Mission Viejo, LLC will incorporate the milestone into the upcoming grand openings for the next phases of development in the Rienda village. Kris Maher, senior vice president of community development, said she feels fulfilled whenever she drives around the community and sees its growth. “You look at what you’ve helped to create, and you see people walking their dogs, families pushing the baby in the stroller (and) the older couple out for a walk,” she said. “I always just have such a sense of pride when I see that I got to help, in some small way, create this lifestyle for people.” Back in 2004, the corporation secured the acreage included in what was then “The Ranch Plan,” and what would become Rancho Mission Viejo, following the desire of RMV Chairman and CEO Anthony Moiso. Sendero, the area immediately west of Antonio Parkway, was the first village that was rolled out, succeeded by Esencia in 2015 and Rienda in April 2022. Maher said her organization has always operated with the goal of “testing boundaries,” reflected in the millions of dollars spent on research over the past few years and effort spent on designing the area to match its natural surroundings and providing the lifestyle prospective residents want. “My previous boss (used to say), ‘You can either match your competition, draft off your competition, benchmark or pioneer,’ ” she continued. “We choose to, more or less, benchmark or pioneer, because we don’t want to be the same as everyone else.” RMV officials spoke to the ownership residents have taken of their community, whether through participation in nearly 80 resident-led clubs, attending RanchLife events en masse, utilizing the sports facilities or the vast array of amenities. Instead of only a few hundred people coming out to events, now thousands do, according to Vice President of Mar-
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
The Rancho Mission Viejo community spans three different villages, with more developments to come eastward in the newest village of Rienda. Photo: Zone57
keting Stephanie Walker, who added, “there’s something for everyone” in terms of how residents can make the community their own. “It speaks volumes to the level of involvement and how much the residents truly love (interacting) with one another,” Walker said. “...All of the programming through RanchLife is very holistic, it’s communitywide; the end goal is to bring everyone together. It’s been pretty amazing to see that evolve over the last 10 years.” Maher added that the larger events have grown to where officials are seeking a new, bigger park space able to accommodate the level of attendance. As the company is continuing to build upon the existing RMV area, Maher said it recently began an 11-million-cubic-yard grading project for its next two phases. A mix of market-rate houses and homes under the corporation’s Gavilan brand, for ages 55 and older, will be up for sale for a total of 514 homes. All throughout the development process, Walker said, the company has kept an eye toward making homes attainable for the younger generation. She added that homes in Rancho Mission Viejo have been listed at a lower price per square foot than other competitors’ homes.
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“Maybe (families) don’t have the biggest backyard, but they have … a larger backyard at their fingertips with all these amazing amenities,” she said. “That’s pretty special, and a lot of other existing communities and (the resale market) can’t claim that.” The company’s “No. 1 goal” in creating Rienda was to get millennials and younger people into homes, according to Maher. It spent two years with architectural firms working to design floor plans that make for reasonable mortgage payments, property taxes and HOA dues. Listing condos in the low $500,000s was not what RMV initially anticipated, but Maher felt those prices were still relatively sensible. “That’s an amazing price point for someone to be able to own a home in South Orange County,” said Maher. “We’re very proud of that, and it worked out very well. Our sales have proven that out.” Since Rienda’s 2022 opening, 734 homes have been sold, with consistent foot traffic to the community’s Discovery House, model homes, and visitor center. “Folks are willing to make an investment right now at The Ranch, specifically,” Walker said. “It’s been pretty remarkable to see (how) everything’s been very healthy and moving along.
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ate last month, Democrats and Republicans in Congress came together to pass a bipartisan funding bill to keep our government open until Nov. 17, after facing significant hurdles that threatened a shutdown. We’re not out of the woods yet. We have a little over a month to reach a bipartisan agreement to fully fund the government for Fiscal Year 2024 and avert another shutdown threat. Our servicemembers are counting on us to get this done. Too many of our men and women in uniform are living paycheckto-paycheck. According to the Department of Defense, a quarter of active-duty servicemembers have experienced food insecurity. Junior enlisted servicemembers are at the highest risk. Nearly half of junior enlisted spouses have experienced food insecurity, as well. Despite serving in the best funded military in the world, junior servicemembers aren’t earning enough to make ends meet. I have heard repeatedly from junior enlisted servicemembers at Camp Pendleton who are worried about making ends meet. A government shutdown would only have made the problem worse, because servicemembers would not have received their paychecks, making it harder for them to put food on the table. This situation is unacceptable. The men and women who serve our country should never have to worry about their next meal. As a precaution, I co-sponsored the bipartisan Pay our Military Act to ensure our servicemembers continue to receive their pay in the event of a shutdown. Congress now has until midNovember to pass a bipartisan funding bill that ensures our government stays open, our men and women in uniform get paid, and services that millions of Americans
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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rely upon are not disrupted. The only way for that to happen is for Democrats and Republicans to once again work together and reach a bipartisan consensus on government funding levels that do not make drastic cuts to critical programs such as those that provide food assistance. Recently, I introduced bipartisan legislation, the Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act, to help servicemembers and their families access food assistance programs. Currently, the basic allowance for housing (BAH) that servicemembers receive is counted as income and, therefore, disqualifies many military families from food assistance. My bill would remove the BAH from counting as income for the free and reducedprice school meal program, expanding access to school meals for military families. There is still much more to do to improve the financial and nutritional well-being of servicemembers. In the long run, passing my bipartisan bill would ensure military families at Camp Pendleton and bases across the country can focus on fulfilling their mission, rather than on finding their
Letter to The Editor GANAHL COMPLIMENTS DAVE SOLT, San Juan Capistrano Congratulations to Ganahl Lumber Co. on two fronts. Ganahl has been a staple retailer in our town for many years. The old store was crowded and funky. I always saw it as organized chaos. But no longer. Last week, they had their grand opening of a new store, which is large, well-planned and actually beautiful. I recommend a visit , on Stone Hill Drive, to see this
THE LEVIN LETTER BY REP. MIKE LEVIN
next meal. In the near term, the best thing we can do to help servicemembers and their families is to prevent a shutdown by passing a full government funding package before the November 17 deadline. The consequences of a government shutdown are too severe for Congress to play partisan political games. Let’s fund the government, keep it open, and ensure servicemembers and their families always have enough to eat.CD
beautiful addition to our community. Congratulations No. 1 to Ganahl Lumber. Congratulations No. 2 on their level of customer service. I ordered three new interior doors. There was some confusion on the proper size needed, and my contractor told me not to use the doors I purchased. Scott Sexton, Door and Window Sales Manager, stepped up and fixed my problem to my full satisfaction. So Congratulations No. 2 to Ganahl for their commitment to keeping customers happy.
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Aging Well FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART
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Welcome TO THE
Aging Well Guide Picket Fence Media and Times Media Group welcome you back to our latest edition of Aging Well, our biannual guide for our readers young at heart to continue to shine in their golden years. For our fall issue of Aging Well, we shine a spotlight on a new retirement community in the South County area with Watermark Laguna Niguel. Watermark emphasizes a concept of “personalized living,” and we got the lowdown from the folks over there on what that means for their residents. In the line of personal relationships, we also tapped into the expertise of our resident senior relationship columnist Tom Blake, who talked to senior men about their experiences in the online dating world after losing their mates. They can be muddy waters for some elderly in online dating. While being online for seniors isn’t always a struggle, technology continues to move fast. We talked to some local groups that offer digital
literacy programs for seniors to stay up to date with new tech advances and smartphones. Technology can also be helpful, as you find in our feature on hearing aids. Recent studies have shown a link between not wearing hearing aids and development of dementia. We speak with health experts on this correlation and what you can do. And if you’re looking for something to do with similarly distinguished folks, check out our events calendar. Seniors in South Orange County know how to stay active, and there is always something happening with local groups and community centers. Stay on your toes with all of this helpful insight in our latest edition of Aging Well.
The Struggles of Online Dating as a Widower By Tom Blake
I
’m technically not a widower; I wasn’t married to Greta, my living-together partner of 25 years. However, the pain of her passing away a year ago this month was just as intense as if we’d been married. The loneliness that followed was overwhelming. Five months later, this past March, while sitting at home on another lonely Saturday night, I thought, “I can’t take this any longer. I’m not aging well. I’d like to meet some nice women to socialize with. Even if meeting only for coffee. Social interaction is important for lonely seniors. I’m going to try online dating.” Even though I’ve written senior dating articles for 29 years, I knew very little about online dating, other than what I had read or heard from my readers. I never dreamed that someday I would try it. I subscribed to Match and Zoosk, the latter a lesser-known dating site. Immediately, I felt hope that I would meet a nice compatible woman. I had improved my aging-well situation. And then reality hit. On my profile, I had to reveal my true age, 83. That was a downer for some women to whom I reached out. But I was also surprised, because a very attractive woman, age 60, from Carlsbad, 25 miles away, said she was impressed with my profile and wanted to meet. All eight of her pictures looked good. But she was going away for a month, so our meeting in person would have to wait. I asked her about the 23-year age difference. She said, “Age is just a number.” I didn’t know if she was for real or not. Was she catfishing? (A person who sets up a fake online profile to seek money or some other motivation.) While away, she kept in touch with me twice a week. When she returned, we set up an in-person meeting and walked around Dana Point Harbor. I was floored. She looked like her pictures and gave me a big hug. She said she wanted to move The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
to Dana Point. We met two days later, again at the harbor. She asked to see my home. I foolishly agreed. Two days later, she texted and said if she moved in with me, because of the age difference, she’d likely have to care for me someday. Hence, before moving in, she said she would want me to change my will and estate plan to leave my home to her. When I said no, she said adios. Never heard from her again. Welcome to the challenges of senior dating for a single man. Here is my list of characteristics I seek in a partner. • Physical attraction—usually recognizable on a first date. • A person of impeccable character. • A sense of humor and a love of animals. • Personal hygiene. Is in good physical shape. • Availability. Do they have time to be in a relationship with you? Or, are they so busy that you are No. 5 on their priority list? • Are they geographically close, within 20 or 30 miles away from where you live? • Within a reasonable age difference—10 years. more or less. These challenges aren’t just for men; senior women face them as well. It’s tough to juggle the above seven items and still maintain an aging-well lifestyle. And what happens when you like them, but they aren’t into you? Yikes, it’s back to the drawing board. No wonder senior dating is such a struggle.
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Hearing Aid Use Decreases Risk of Cognitive Decline By Breeana Greenberg
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any seniors experience some level of hearing loss as a part of the normal aging process; however, wearing hearing devices can help prevent cognitive decline associated with the social isolation and decreased auditory processing that can come with hearing loss. Hearing is like a muscle that becomes stronger with use, San Clemente HearingLife Hearing Care Provider Amber Barr explained. By wearing hearing aids, those with hearing difficulties can continue to have “the synapses in your brain keep firing” and maintain auditory processing, Barr explained. Wearing hearing devices can also help those with hearing loss stay engaged in conversation, as having difficulty hearing may make it tougher to stay social, causing those to withdraw from conversations. “Part of a hearing test is not only listening for tones, but it is also the effect on the ability to understand the spoken word,” Barr said. “So what happens is that if you do have a hearing loss and you do not correct it or it is not something on the forefront, what happens is that you can lose the ability to understand the spoken word.” According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, “nearly 25% of those aged 65-74 and 50% of those who are 75 and older have disabling hearing loss.” The institute notes that roughly 28.8 million adults in the U.S. could benefit from the use of hearing devices. The World Health Organization explains that unaddressed hearing loss can impact communication, cognition and social isolation, among other impacts. A John Hopkins study found that “mild hearing loss doubled dementia risk. Moderate loss tripled risk, and people with a severe hearing impairment were five times more likely to develop dementia.” See HEARING AID on page 23
Residents experiencing hearing loss should wear hearing devices in order to prevent cognitive decline, according to local health care providers.
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Revolutionizing Senior Living: Watermark Laguna Niguel’s Bespoke Approach to Dining, Wellness and Community By Hayze Law
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railblazing the senior care landscape, Watermark Laguna Niguel is redefining the experience of aging by prioritizing community, individuality and innovative memory support programs, at the new location in Laguna Niguel, which is set to open later this year. One of over 70 locations, Watermark Laguna Niguel takes a bespoke approach to care, infusing innovation into dining, wellness and living through its emphasis on “360 Wellness,” an overarching concept that prioritizes the main pillars of health, including physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Distinguishing itself from traditional senior living models, Watermark avoids the commonly used term “facility,” and refers to residents as “members,” as opposed to “patients,” to establish a sense of community. This point of differentiation reflects Watermark’s forward-thinking mindset and its aim to move away from traditional needs-based models in senior living. “Instead of talking about needs at Watermark, we like to talk about possibilities,” says Christopher Tharp, Executive Director of Watermark Laguna Niguel. Since heading up the operation at Watermark Laguna Niguel just six months ago, Tharp has coached the team to focus on the “perfect day” concept. Honing in on what makes each member’s life great each day, the staff builds off that to create a living experience that caters to individual needs and preferences.
See SENIOR LIVING on page 20
Watermark Laguna Niguel shines as an inventive trailblazer, where a bespoke approach to dining, wellness and community living is set to take stage later the year at the new location in Laguna Niguel. Photos Courtesy of Watermark Laguna Niguel.
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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SENIOR LIVING from page 18 “What constitutes a perfect day for you? For many of our members, it is that perfect cup of coffee and the crisp LA Times at 8:30 a.m. every morning,” says Tharp. In the memory support communities, the staff ranges from caregivers to memory support practitioners called “Nayas,” which is ancient Sanskrit for a person of wisdom, or a guide. Nayas are extensively trained to provide focused care for individuals living with dementia, ensuring that they receive support throughout their daily routines, within a secure environment. The innovation at Watermark extends to its dining program, which emphasizes diversity and inclusion. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced and organic ingredients, members have access to a diverse menu, and meals are included in their base rent, eliminating extra charges. Collaboration with local markets ensures the integration of locally sourced produce, fish, and fruit into the menu. One unique program within their dining offering is “Gourmet Bites,” designed to help residents with dementia regain their independence in eating by transforming traditional meals into manageable finger foods. “Once they learn this, it’s like they’re reborn … they look forward to the tastes and flavors that they’ve always had, without the inhibitions of trying to use a fork or spoon to navigate it from the plate to their mouth,” says Tharp. In essence, this approach involves dehydration and thin layering, and has undergone a 12-week chef training program, resulting in improved dining experiences and weight gain among dementia care residents, according to Tharp. “It just brings back the joy of dining, and the thrill of having options and choices of things that you want to eat,” says Tharp. Moreover, Watermark tailors its dining program to the diversity of the community. For instance, if a particular ethnicity is prevalent among members, the kitchen can adjust the menu choices accordingly. According to Tharp, at least 95% of the food at Watermark will be fresh, non-frozen and
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
organic–a commitment that puts the community “light years ahead,” in terms of dining disciplines. The “360 Wellness” encourages members to engage in various activities that are comprehensively designed to promote overall health, including tailored fitness programs, socialization opportunities and intellectual pursuits, through Watermark University. “Watermark University taps into the greatness of the generation that we serve, as well as the greatness of its associates,” says Tharp. Through classes, events, programs, and outings, Watermark University offers intellectually stimulating activities of all kinds, from painting or learning a new language, to ballroom dancing, sculpting, and dog training, among others. Open to anyone with a skill to offer, the university is unique in that it is a club where individuals in-house are teaching from their storehouse of wisdom and experiences, as well as tapping into the staff and their different areas of specialty. Additionally, the community will have access to in-house therapy, a beauty salon, a theater, a garden, and courtyards, as well as a bistro, which includes all the dining disciplines. Activities including beach walks and gym sessions are planned to provide daily opportunities for residents to enhance overall well-being. Upon joining Watermark, each member is set up with a customizable care plan that is meant to grow with the individual over time, which falls in line with the community’s aim to move away from the traditional “one size fits all” model. For instance, some members need their meds administered, or help with dressing, bathing, and using the toilet, in which case it is added on from a base plan. In this continuum of care, members can move into an apartment fully independent, and if they require more services over time, Watermark will bring that up around them, without the burden of having to relocate. While there is currently no set opening date, it is expected, according to Tharp, that Watermark Laguna Niguel will begin housing members later this year. More information regarding signature programs, residency, etc., can be found at the Watermark Laguna Niguel Website.
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Local Resident Provides Private Sessions to Help Older Adults with Technology By C. Jayden Smith
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s people reach their 60s, 70s, and beyond in age, they can find it difficult to adapt and get the hang of technology that helps keep them connected with loved ones, whether with traditional cellphones or more advanced technology. With the lack of a Community-Based Adult Service, or an organization recognized by the state of California that helps older adults sustain and thrive on their own, older adults and their families in South Orange County can find it difficult to teach how to stay connected. In comes Carlos Aguilar, a Medicare broker by day who has been serving people for roughly five years. Aguilar stops by the Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente, the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, and Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center once a month to help older adults with their digital needs in private, 30-minute sessions. He was introduced to the idea of assisting seniors by OptumCare Medical Group and UnitedHealthcare, when he was asked to take over a class they held that taught people how to use their phones. “I helped them understand the technology and be able to use their phones (and) devices, connect to family,” said Aguilar. “It was kind of an open class with folks that would come in, and it was hard, because you get eight to 10 people that all had different devices.” To improve the service he could provide people, he switched to meeting with people privately, adding that he introduced many to the Siri feature that comes with iPhones. “(I’d say) that they literally have a free assistant who could help them with directions, with the weather, and with making phone calls,” Aguilar added. Over time, he brought his services to local community centers, in which he cuts out a four-hour block each Wednesday in which he can go to a venue, and older adults sign up for sessions and bring a list of the topics they want to learn about.
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Some people need to know how to turn their phones on and off or use the calling, messaging and e-mail features, and others are more interested in learning Microsoft Excel and Word or making PDFs. “It just depends on the individual,” Aguilar said. “It’s very personalized.” With a brother who worked at Motorola at a young age, Aguilar has always been tech-savvy, he said, as his family had access to the latest gadgets. He combined that with his ability to be patient and a general love for technology as a winning formula that’s helped him succeed with being a good teacher. His favorite moment of those sessions is the “light-bulb moment,” when people finally understand how to accomplish what they want to do . “When somebody texts for the first time and their daughter writes back and says they love him, I start to cry,” Aguilar said. “It’s such a touching moment, to be able to open up a world to them that they thought they wouldn’t ever be able to (interact with).” He called it “humbling” and “an honor” to be one of the few in South County who goes out with the goal of connecting people, especially with the feeling of loneliness being something that can deeply affect older adults. Being able to put people on Facebook or help them use other services to connect is gratifying, Aguilar said. At the state level, the California Department of Aging also lists ways for people to take advantage of digital technology. Under the Digital Inclusion page at aging.ca.gov, interested parties can find various ways to access devices or the internet. The CDA’s Digital Connections Program includes home- and community-based programs that help “bridge the digital divide.” Call 1.800.510.2020 to find services in Orange County.
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HEARING AID from page 16 The National Council on Aging notes that “untreated hearing loss is also associated with depression, anxiety and a higher risk of falls.” Barr noted that she has heard a wide range of reasons as to why some people do not want to wear their hearing devices, including the stigma that wearing a hearing aid shows a sign of age. Some people do not like the feeling of wearing a hearing device all day, and some find that sounds do not feel completely natural through the device, Barr said. “Some people do not feel that it sounds completely natural, because it is just a hearing device,” Barr said. “It’s not new ears, and it’s not bionic ears.” “So, there are quite a few things that can come up as to why people do not feel that they are ready or they do not see it as a hearing loss, because most hearing loss is progressive,” Barr continued. “It happens over a long period of time, so they do not see it as a hindrance.” Some signs of hearing loss include difficulty following conversations, people seem to be mumbling, having difficulty locating sounds, and ringing or buzzing in the ears, according to HearingLife. As a preventative measure to avoid hearing loss as people age, Barr recommends using hearing protection. The World Health Organization notes that worldwide, “over 1 billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices.” “There are some aspects of hearing loss that just happen with age, but a lot of it can be noise exposure,” Barr said. “So I do recommend for people to wear hearing protection and then eat bananas, because the potassium in bananas can actually help with your inner ear, which helps with the cochlea, and it just helps with your hearing.” “So eat your bananas,” Barr emphasized. HearingLife recommends people over the age of 55 have their hearing checked annually. Not being able to hear well impacts one’s everyday life, Barr explained, which is why the company recommends hearing checks annually so that “we can get to everything early before there is any cognitive decline.” “What we recommend is just to test your ears every year,” Barr said. “We do provide complimentary hearing tests, so even if it is just doing a quick screening to see where you are at, it is always recommended.”
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31451 Avenida Los Cerritos, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 92675 | SerraSol.com The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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Local Knowledge Caregiving, especially for family members, can be an all-consuming responsibility, devoid of sick leave or vacation time, and demanding a 24/7 commitment. Caregivers juggle many tasks and can often be overwhelmed. If the person you’re caring for has dementia, it can be even more challenging. That’s where respite care becomes invaluable. But what exactly is respite care? Respite care is a short-term solution, offering caregivers a well-deserved break from their relentless duties. Whether it’s just a few hours or several days, it provides caregivers with essential downtime. The benefits of respite care are substantial: • A Sense of Renewal: The constant demands of caregiving can lead to burnout, affecting countless caregivers who struggle to find time for self-care. Respite care allows you to rejuvenate by taking time for yourself. Whether it’s a spa day, quality time with friends, or simply catching up on sleep, knowing your loved one is well cared for brings a sense of renewal. • Revitalized Energy: Caregiving is physically and emotionally draining, and without breaks, you may eventually run out of energy, risking mistakes. Respite care replenishes your physical, mental, and emotional reserves, ensuring
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you return to your caregiving role with renewed vigor. • Space for Everyone: Constant proximity can strain even the closest relationships. Respite care provides a much-needed breather, reducing tension and potential conflicts. It allows both parties to regain composure and reduce frustration, promoting a healthier relationship. • Pursue Personal Passions: Many caregivers put their passions on hold due to the demands of caregiving. Respite care affords you the opportunity to rekindle those interests while knowing your loved one is in capable hands. Whether it’s a neglected hobby, an overdue hiking trip, or a long-awaited theater visit, you can pursue your passions without worry. • Restores Personal Identity: Caregivers often find their identity consumed by their role, losing sight of their individuality. Respite care offers a chance to reconnect with your own identity. You can enjoy dinners with friends, attend weddings, or simply watch a movie guilt-free, knowing your loved one is well cared for.
Choosing respite care can not only support caregivers but can also enrich the lives of senior loved ones. Senior living communities with respite care, like Serra Sol Memory Care in San Juan Capistrano, provide exciting activities, outings, bus rides and delicious meals, in addition to a safe environment with experienced staff who are well-trained in providing care to those with memory loss. Respite care can be a lifeline for caregiv-
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ers, offering much-needed relief while ensuring seniors receive excellent care. If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of Serra Sol’s respite care in San Juan Capistrano, contact us at serrasol.com to schedule a tour and discover how we can help you and your loved ones. 31451 Avendia Los Cerritos San Juan Capistrano 949.496.8802 SerraSol.com RCFF: 306005946
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Maintaining youthful vitality Tension patterns that form in body/mind are due to life events and stressors. Those stressors weigh down our body/ mind and affect physical and mental/emotional health. We unwind those patterns to regain freedom and vitality. Do you know your body has the ability to age well? There is no such thing as “just old age,” because we were designed and created to heal and regenerate. So why do some age gracefully and others not? As holistic-minded practitioners, we always look first for the natural abilities of the body/mind to repair itself and adapt optimally to address any issues (anxiety and depression, gut health, pain management). Holistic minded means that we address people (body, mind, spirit) and not just treat conditions. We want to support the body’s natural functions for adaptation, repair and regeneration rather than giving something to just stop a symptom. For this to work successfully, we have to understand what the body needs, what is creating unbalance in the system, so we can take some simple actions to
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
bring your system back into balance. • Heart disease is one of the main killers. So a big part of aging successfully will focus on feeding our heart with what it needs; healthy fat plays an important role. Research shows that 4 servings per week of healthy nuts and seed scan reduce heart disease by 22% . Physically, your heart needs exercise to function properly, but it also needs emotional and mental support, because our stressful life can ramp up cortisol and adrenaline production, putting a strain on our heart. Our heart and soul are also deeply connected, filling our day with activity that feel our heart with love. • The brain is becoming one of the sicker organs in the body. We all know someone dealing with cognitive function decline impacting memory, focus, processing speed and concentration. The degenerative decline can be addressed early on by reducing systemic inflammation of the body and stimulating neuroplasticity in the brain. Physically, there are exercises that can be given to train/retrain the brain, as toxicity in the brain is important. We have found that a regular detox using Ionic detox food bath can really improve
brain function, mental and emotional mindset should address patterns and cravings that hurt our brain. Brain protection activities include sharing meals, volunteering, attending religious services and visiting family. • Lung health, with COVID, we all realized how important our lungs were for energy production. So many of our patients just noticed how tired they were with COVID. Just breathing is not enough; we have to pay attention to what we inhale, beware of dust, chemicals, and other toxins in the air you breathe. Use your muscle and your posture to fully extend and fill your lungs with air. Grief and sadness are 2 emotions that greatly affect the lungs when not dealt with properly. • Your bones are the rigid support that keep you upright they serve as a protective cage for your internal organs. Investing some time and energy in your bone health will ultimately set you up for a longer healthier life. When building strong bones, you want to be active, to eat right for your bones and you want to address tension patterns that form in body/ mind due to life events. It is easier to maintain a good structure that corrects a bad one that
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started 40 years ago, that’s why we recommend chiropractic care to children from a young age. With the increase of cell phone use, we are seeing younger adults suffering from postural problems like hyperkyphosis, making them look and feel older than they are. At San Clemente Vitality Center, we have brought together many tools to help you age successfully: tools for gentle and natural detoxification, to help your body regenerate, to keep your body balanced and strong. Because we are all unique, we create personalized vitality programs for you. Call today to book an Initial evaluation to get you started on the road of aging well! San Clemente Vitality Center Drs. Burton & Emma Wagner, DC’s 949-441-7755 www.sanclementevitality.com
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Legacy Letters: A Lasting Gift To Your Family As we journey through life, we accumulate a wealth of experiences, wisdom, and values that are worth preserving and passing down to future generations. One beautiful way to accomplish this is by creating legacy letters, also known as ethical wills. These heartfelt documents serve as a lasting gift, allowing seniors to share their life stories, values, and advice with their children and grandchildren, ensuring that their legacy lives on. What Are Legacy Letters? Legacy letters are personal documents that go beyond the distribution of material assets. They serve as a means to communicate the intangible wealth that resides within us--our life lessons, values, and the essence of who we are. These letters are not legally binding but are a powerful way to impart your wisdom and express your love to your loved ones. Why Create a Legacy Letter? 1. Preserving Family History: Legacy letters provide a unique opportunity to document your family’s history, including stories from your own life and those passed down through generations. 2. Sharing Values and Beliefs: Your values and beliefs have shaped you into the person you are today. By sharing them, you can guide future generations and provide a moral compass for their lives. 3. Provide Comfort and Closure: Legacy letters offer emotional support to your loved ones during challenging times. They can provide comfort and guidance when you are no longer there to offer it in person.
Did you know that 30% of the residents in San Clemente are over the age of 55? The state of California is on pace for 25% of the population to be over 55 by 2030, and the trend continues nationally, as Baby Boomers outpace any other generation. As we age, maintaining an active, independent lifestyle while remaining at home becomes more important than ever. However, as we age, our mobility and pace of life also change, and it becomes crucial that we depend on others for support. San Clemente Village (the Village) was founded with our older residents in mind. We are a non-profit, membership organization that provides non-medical services to San Clemente and Capo Beach residents 55+. Services such as transportation, grocery shopping, errands, help around the house, pet assistance, socialization and more! Our mission: Bring together local residents, 55+, to help one another enjoy an active, connected, and independent lifestyle. The Village was founded by local residents and City Council members in 2014, becoming a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2015, and began service delivery in 2016. We are a 100% Volunteer-driven organization, meaning that ALL of our services are provided by well-vetted Volunteers. As Executive Director, I am the only staff. Our average volunteer age is 65, with our
average member age at 87. Truly an organization of “Neighbors helping Neighbors.” Our Volunteers will provide a record amount of services this year, surpassing 2,500, equating to over 5,000 volunteer hours. Our #1 service requested is transportation, with socialization being a close 2nd. With the Surgeon General just declaring loneliness and isolation an epidemic, especially among older adults, the Village aims to provide meaningful social interactions and friendly visits, to help our members thrive mentally and emotionally. We certainly can’t do this alone; it takes a village! We welcome anyone who’s interested in joining us to volunteer, become a member, or partner with us to continue to serve the older residents of San Clemente, Capo Beach, and eventually ... beyond! To join the movement, please contact: Jessica Reiter-Flax Executive Director JessicaR@scvillage.org -or- call: (949) 441-1348
How to Create Your Legacy Letter 1. Start with Reflection: Begin by reflecting on your life experiences, key milestones, and the values that have guided you. Consider the lessons you’ve learned and the advice you’d like to impart. 2. Write from the Heart: Legacy letters are deeply personal. Write in your own voice and be authentic. Share anecdotes, memories, and the emotions that accompany them. 3. Choose Your Recipients: Decide who you want to receive your legacy letters. It could be your children, grandchildren, or even close friends and extended family members. 4. Store Safely: Keep your legacy letter in a safe and accessible place. You can also consider sharing it with a trusted family member or your attorney to ensure it reaches the intended recipients when the time is right. Passing Down a Lasting Legacy Creating a legacy letter is a profound act of love and connection. It allows you to bridge the generations, ensuring that your values and life experiences continue to inspire and guide your family long after you’re gone. Your words may well be the compass guiding them on their own journeys through life. For a FREE copy of our Legacy Letter workbook, send us an email at info@danapointwills.com with “Legacy Letters” in the subject line.! Jan Meyer Meyer Estate Law, PC 949.607.9412 jan@danapointwills danapointwills.com
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AGING WELL Calendar
It’s important to stay active and social as we age, and luckily for our readers, South Orange County is bustling with activities for seniors. Whether it’s a weekly meeting or class at a local senior and community center or bigger seasonal events and social gatherings, there is always something around the corner to get out and stay active with similarly minded neighbors. Check out our list of recurring and upcoming events:
WEEKLY MEETINGS, HAPPENINGS & CLASSES Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays FREE EXERCISE CLASSES The City of San Juan Capistrano offers Stretch and Tone Exercise classes to seniors from 8:45-10 a.m. at the community center’s gymnasium. The class is led by volunteer instructor Joy Parr. Participants should bring an exercise mat. The city also hosts a Chair Exercise: Sit n’ Fit class from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the center’s Boys & Girls Club Multipurpose Room. Participate in a DVD-led program by Anne Burnell. SJC Community Center Gym, 25925 Camino Del Avion. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org/175/Senior-Services. CAPO CLASSICS SENIOR BASKETBALL The Capo Classics is a not-for-profit organization that promotes healthy aging through playing basketball. It is a group of senior men (ages 60 and above) who play recreational basketball at the San Juan Capistrano Gym. This program for seniors is made available by the City of San Juan Capistrano for a nominal daily gym use fee. If you are 60 years and older and still love playing basketball, you just might be a “Classic.” The group includes players of all skill levels. It also places teams in National Senior Games 3x3 tournaments (also open to women) in California and around the U.S., and occasionally full-court basketball internationally. The Capo Classics Senior Basketball Program gives seniors a renewed interest in their physical and mental health. The group typically meets to play Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:20 a.m.-1:30 p.m., and Fridays from 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. SJC Gym, 32681 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano.
Mondays and Wednesdays ACTIVE LIFESTYLE STRETCHING CLASS 10:30-11:15 a.m. Total body stretch for those 50-plus years of age that addresses all major muscle groups for every fitness level. Ideal for better range of motion and increasing longevity of life. Current class session ends Oct. 18, with classes starting up again Nov. 6-Dec. 20. Free for seven classes. Register at danapoint.org/department/community-services-and-parks/recreation-programs
or call 949.248.3536. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo St., Dana Point.
Tuesdays & Thursdays THIRSTY THURSDAYS; TACO TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS AT GAVILAN 55+ On most Thursdays, residents of Rancho Mission Viejo’s Gavilán 55+ community are welcome to swing by the Palomino at the Hacienda to grab a drink with good friends and neighbors, as the bar is open. And on the third Tuesday and third Thursday of each month, Gavilán 55+ residents at The Ranch can also enjoy Taco Tuesdays and Taco Thursdays. Tuesdays and Thursdays are for tacos, and everything that goes along with them. Gavilán residents can head over to the Palomino Bar at The Hacienda for tacos served by resident favorite, The Mexican Taco, providing freshly made tacos with sides of beans, rice, chips, and guacamole. Servings are $8 per plate and bar service is from 4-8 p.m., while food service runs from 4:30-7 p.m. Want to bring your friends? Additional seating is available in the Studio II and Studio III in The Hacienda. ranchomissionviejo.com/ events/. STRENGTH & FLEXIBILITY 9 a.m. At the fitness center of the Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente, join for biweekly classes to keep up your all-important strength and flexibility. Classes with donation. Also join for chair yoga on Mondays and Tuesdays at 2 p.m. Classes also with donation. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente.
Tuesdays TRANSITIONS SUPPORT GROUP 10:30-11:30 a.m. If the “you” of 20 years ago met the “you” of today, would they recognize each other? This group focuses on life changes and losses that occur during the aging process, including the physical (vision, hearing, memory), social (loss of loved ones), financial, employment (retirement), conflict and isolation. The second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP 2:30-4 p.m. This support group is designed for caregivers to Alzheimer’s patients only. It promotes a setting for sharing information, insight, advice and encouragement. Participants have an opportunity to learn
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
from others who face similar challenges and discuss their experiences. The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month. Reata Park Welcome Center, 28632 Ortega Highway. 949.493.5911. ALZHEIMER SUPPORT GROUP 3-4:30 p.m. This group meets on the first Tuesday of every month, with no appointment necessary. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org/175/Senior-Services.
Wednesdays FREE ELDER LAW SERVICES 9-11 a.m. Seniors can make an appointment with the City of San Juan Capistrano for this free consultation regarding probate, conservatorships, elder abuse, Medi-Cal, power of attorney, guardianship, wills and other legal matters. Appointments occur every second Wednesday of the month. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org/175/ Senior-Services. CELL PHONE TUTORING WITH CARLOS AGUILAR 9-11 a.m. Carlos is available to help answer any and all questions concerning cellphones—both Android and iPhones—tablets, texting and emailing, as well as cellphone photos on the first Wednesday of every month. Carlos is happy to help, by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call San Juan Capistrano’s Community Services at 949.493.5911, or register with the reception desk at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center. Bring your device with you to the appointment. SJC Community Center. Senior Lounge, 25925 Camino Del Avion. BINGO AT THE SAN CLEMENTE SENIOR CENTER 1:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, the Dorothy Visser Senior Center will host Bingo. The center will begin selling cards at 1 p.m., with the game starting promptly at 1:30. The buy-in is $12 for 10 games with four cards and a special pick-your-number game. For more information, contact the center at 949.498.3322. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente.
Thursdays COMMODITIES DAY 9 a.m. Second Harvest Bank provides surplus food to seniors and those in need on Page 26
a first-come, first-served basis on the third Thursday of every month. San Juan Capistrano Community Center, Senior Lounge, 25925 Camion Del Avion. 949.493.5911. LEGAL AID SOCIETY OF ORANGE COUNTY 9-11 a.m. Seniors can make an appointment with the City of San Juan Capistrano to meet with Sandy Kalen, who provides support and services to help people who are struggling with civil legal issues. Appointments occur every first Thursday of the month. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano. org/175/Senior-Services. FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS 9:30-11 a.m. On the third Thursday of every month, Healthy at Home Caregivers offers blood pressure screenings. San Juan Capistrano Community Center, Senior Lounge, 25925 Camion Del Avion. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org/175/Senior-Services. BAMBOO ROOM UKULELE 1-3 p.m. Those 50 and older are invited to bring their own ukulele and join the fun of this group every Thursday afternoon in San Juan Capistrano. Music and song lists are provided, and no experience is required. All are welcome to listen in, and no pre-registration is required. La Sala Auditorium, 31495 El Camino Real. 949.493.5911.
Fridays LINE DANCING FRIDAYS 10-11 a.m. Join Age Well Senior Services for line dancing every Friday at San Clemente’s senior center. No partner required. For a $5 donation, learn some easy and fun line dances to get you moving. Carrie Wojo teaches all over South Orange County and makes it easy to stay active and have fun. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. 949.498.3322. SPANISH CLUB 9-10 a.m. Learn conversational Spanish. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. MAHJONG 1-3 p.m. The City of San Juan Capistrano hosts Mahjong games, with experienced walk-in Mahjong players welcome to join, every Friday. San Juan Capistrano CommuniSee CALENDAR on page 27 thecapistranodispatch.com
CALENDAR from page 26 ty Center, Senior Lounge, 25925 Camion Del Avion. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano. org/175/Senior-Services.
UPCOMING EVENTS Oct. 26 ACTIVE LIFESTYLE HALLOWEEN HAUNT 5-7 p.m. Anyone 50+ years of age can join this Halloween-themed Active Lifestyle Dinner in Dana Point. There will be special entertainment and a catered buffet dinner. Raffle prizes will be awarded for the best costumes, so come dressed in your spooky best. Doors open at 4:45 p.m. Cost is $45. Register at danapoint.org/department/community-services-and-parks/recreation-programs or call 949.248.3536. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo St., Dana Point.
Oct. 27 & 28 GHOSTS & LEGENDS TOUR Join the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society for an all-ages guided walk down historic Los Rios Street—an annual Halloween tradition on California’s oldest residential street. For two nights of tours, hear from ghostly visitors who share their story of their time walking this very same street. Spooky, family-friendly tales will be a highlight of your holiday. Admission for adults is $24.50, and for children, it’s $12.50. There are five time slots for each night. Los Rios Historic District. hsjcghosttour.com.
Nov. 1 & 2 AARP SMART Driver 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Taking this two-day classroom course at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center could save seniors money on their auto insurance. AARP will refresh your driving skills and knowledge of the rules of the road, teach techniques for handling left turns, right of way and roundabouts, and offer proven driving methods to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. Register by calling 949.493.5911. SJC Community Center, 25925 Camion Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano.
Nov. 2 MEMORY SCREENING 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Get checked. Early detection matters. Many risk factors go into possible memory loss, such as family history, trouble sleeping, high stress levels, diabetes and age over 60. If you notice one or more signs in yourself or others, it can be difficult to know what to do. These concerns should be evaluated by a doctor. Schedule your 30-minute individual assessment by calling 949.498.3322. Screenings are the first Thursday of every month at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente.
Nov. 3 FREE HEARING SCREENING 10 a.m.-noon. Hearing loss affects one
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
in three people over the age of 60. Hearing problems can greatly affect people’s enjoyment of life and their ability to communicate with friends and family. Connect Hearing is proud to offer free, quick and convenient hearing screenings. Trained hearing care professionals will be on hand to explain the results and answer any questions. Schedule an appointment by calling 949.493.5911. San Juan Capistrano Community Center Conference Room, 25925 Camino Del Avion.
Nov. 13 AARP SMART TECHNOLOGY CLASS 10-11:30 a.m. New cars keep getting smarter, but staying in the know has never been easier, according to AARP, which is hosting this free Smart DriverTEKSM workshop at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center’s meeting room. Smart DriveTEK is a 90-minute workshop offering an interactive way to stay up to date with the latest technology in your current or future car. Learn all about what new technologies are available, how they work, and how they can increase your confidence behind the wheel. Register at the community center or call 949.493.5911. SJC Community Center, 25925 Camion Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano.
Dec. 11 SAN CLEMENTE HISTORICAL SOCIETY TIME CAPSULE In conjunction with the San Clemente Historical Society’s Golden Anniversary
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celebration, it is creating a time capsule to be opened in 50 years. What do you want San Clemente residents in 2073 to know about the town? The SC Historical Society encourages submissions of all mediums—writing, photographs, drawings, a trinket or archival object. And it encourages submissions of all genres. Do you have a favorite San Clemente memory, spot, activity, or community event? Or perhaps you’d like to share advice, dreams, hopes, or wishes for future San Clemente residents to discover in 2073. The SC Historical Society’s deadline for submissions is Dec. 6, (Ole Hanson Day). Mail submissions to the group at San Clemente Historical Society, PO Box 283, San Clemente, CA 92672-0283. On Dec., 11, the Talega Maintenance Corporation will host the public viewing of the time capsule contents from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Fireplace Room at the Talega Swim & Athletic Club Clubhouse, located at 100 Calle Altea, San Clemente. sanclementehistoricalsociety.org/events.
Dec. 14 HOLIDAY MASQUERADE SOCIAL 5-7 p.m. Dance and dress up in the holiday spirit with other 50+ years of age. The event includes a catered dinner, entertainment and free raffle prizes. Bring your own masquerade attire and elegantly dance for a fun evening of holiday celebration. Cost is $10. Register at danapoint.org/department/community-services-and-parks/recreation-programs or call 949.248.3536. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo St., Dana Point.
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AEP- It’s About Saving you Money Calling all existing Medicare Beneficiaries, are you looking to save some money on either your monthly premiums, your co-pays, or your prescription drug co-pays? Then the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the time for you to make a change to your current plan. All changes made during this time (10/15 – 12/7) go into effect 1/1/24. The biggest way to save money is to see if a Medicare Advantage plan would work for you. If it does meet your needs, then you cancel your Medicare Supplement and Medicare Drug plan for 2024 because the Medicare Advantage plan gives you that type of coverage and financial protection from medical bills. You’re no longer paying a premium for Medicare Supplement or a Medicare RX plan if you decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans in Orange County typically have no or low premiums and are both HMO’s and PPO’s.
prescriptions changed since you enrolled in your current Medicare RX plan? If they’re expensive medications (in the $40-$100 range or higher when you refill them) then it’s time for a review. The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (also known as AEP) ends December 7th, if you’d like to schedule a no cost Medicare options review contact me soon, my calendar is already filling up! I do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently I represent 5 organizations which offer 36 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1 800 MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options.
Regarding a “standalone” Medicare RX plan, some plans used to not have a name brand drug deductible and now they do. Have your
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The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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SOAPBOX
GUEST OPINION | Laurie’s Latest by Assemblymember Laurie Davies
Working for Our Community T
hey say there’s no place like home, and I couldn’t agree more! Over the course of the past month, I had the opportunity to do what I love most as Assemblywoman– be in the community! As your voice in Sacramento, I’ve been committed to meeting with local residents, community groups and businesses to better understand the needs of our community. Here are a few highlights from the past month: Heroes of Oceanside and Camp Pendleton It was an honor to join the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce for the 2023 “Heroes of Oceanside and Camp Pendleton” luncheon. I had the pleasure to meet and recognize representatives from Camp Pendleton, Oceanside Police Department, Oceanside Fire Department, Oceanside Lifeguards, as well as health care
workers and teachers from both Oceanside Unified School District and Mira Costa College. These individuals all have made key contributions to the advancement and safety of our community! California Sober Living and Recovery (CASLAR) Task Force On September 8, I attended a local meeting with the California Sober Living and Recovery Task Force. This Task Force, which meets monthly, is comprised of residents, elected officials, and industry experts. The group continues to grow, with representatives now throughout the entire state. I am proud to co-chair this effort with some of the brightest leaders in our community, working toward common-sense solutions for this important issue! 36th Annual FAM Hunger Walk On Saturday, September 30, I teamed
up with Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) in San Clemente for their 36th annual FAM Hunger Walk. The goal of this successful event was to help combat and prevent hunger and change the lives of those most vulnerable in our community by creating awareness around the great work that FAM is doing in our local community! In 2023 alone, FAM has served over 2.5 million pounds of food to over 27,000 people! North County Hispanic Heritage Awards Last Thursday, October 5, I attended the third annual North County Hispanic Heritage Awards presented by My San Diego North County. This event was timely, during Hispanic Heritage Month, and honored small businesses and community leaders serving North County San Diego. It was my pleasure to present and celebrate four outstanding members of our community: Maria Nuñez, Arcela
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Nuñez, Jose De Anda and Claudia Padilla. My work in the District isn’t finished! We will continue to work closely with residents, business chambers and key stakeholders as we work on our Legislative package for 2024. Be on the lookout for a survey from our office in the coming weeks, where we seek to identify the most important issues for District 74. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. I am honored to represent you in the State Assembly. Laurie Davies is a small business owner and former mayor who was elected to the State Assembly in 2020 and reelected in 2022. She represents the 74th Assembly District, which includes Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano in South Orange County—down through Camp Pendleton, and Oceanside, Vista and part of Fallbrook in North San Diego County CD
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The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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GETTING OUT
Editor’s Pick
LIVE MUSIC AT IVA LEE’S 7 p.m. Live music is featured at this San Clemente lounge known for its entertainment. Leroy and the Bad Browns will perform. Iva Lee’s Restaurant & Lounge, 555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E, San Clemente. 949.361.8255. ivalees.com.
The List What’s going on in and around town this week THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH Photo Courtesy of Socal Woodies
FRIDAY | OCT. 13 DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS ALTAR 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Mission will display its Dia de los Muertos Altar through Nov. 5 in the 18th century historic Sala. The space offers a place for those to remember their loved ones by placing their names on the Día de los Muertos altar, or ofrenda. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com. LIVE MUSIC AT STILLWATER 6 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue. Flashback Heart Attack will perform. StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. danapointstillwater.com. LIVE MUSIC AT IVA LEE’S 7 p.m. Live music is featured at this San Clemente lounge known for its entertainment. The Kids of Charlemagne will perform. Iva Lee’s Restaurant & Lounge, 555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E, San Clemente. 949.361.8255. ivalees.com. CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE 8 p.m. Enjoy some rollicking sounds over dinner at this intimate and popular South Orange County venue. Eagles tribute band Desperado will perform. Tickets are $30. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com. FARMERS MARKET IN SAN JUAN 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Enjoy the farmers market in town every Friday. Check out the produce, breads, cheeses, artisan craft vendors, and more. Farmakis Farms, 29932 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.364.1270. farmakisfarms.com.
SATURDAY | OCT. 14 SUP YOGA AND PADDLE WORKSHOP 8-9:30 a.m. iHeartYoga and Westwind Sailing have partnered with the Dana Point Harbor to offer a unique 90-minute paddle and yoga
SATURDAY | OCT. 14: DOHENY WOOD CAR SHOW 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit the annual “Doheny Wood” at the historic Doheny State Beach. More than 100 classic woodie wagons will be on display next to the picnic area. The event will feature a raffle for lots of beach- and car-related swag, a traditional catered BBQ dinner and dessert, usually served around 5 p.m. No admission charge for the show, but park admission is $15 for the day, $14 for seniors. Hourly parking is also available. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 714.402.7278. socalwoodieclub.com.
workshop. The first 30 minutes of the class is spent paddling, and the rest of the class is a yoga practice on the board. The workshop is for all skill levels. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. iheartyoga.org. DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. California farmers bring fresh produce to sell at the Dana Point Farmers Market and craft vendors provide a large selection of art, jewelry, clothing, handbags, candles, handmade soaps and unique one-ofa-kind gifts. It is strongly recommended that customers bring their own reusable bags. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point. ENDANGERED SPECIES WLAK 9 a.m. Join the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center for a Docent Walk. Walks start at 9 a.m. from the Nature Interpretive Center and are approximately 1½ hours long. RSVPs are required. Sign up inside the Nature Interpretive Center. Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. 949.248.3527. pnaturalresources@danapoint.org. SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 2023 ‘BIKESTRAVAGANZA!’ 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy a bike safety event and crawl through San Juan Capistrano. Cruise on by Descanso Park on your bike and enjoy riding, free food and drinks at participating businesses. Descanso Park, 32506 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. 714.299.0912. greatopps.org. SAN CLEMENTE WOMAN’S CLUB FUNDRAISER 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Join the San Clemente Woman’s Club for a FUNdraiser featuring Quarter Mania, an interactive auction where participants only need to bring a roll of quarters. Doors open at 11 a.m. for check-in, shopping
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
with numerous vendors, and lunch. Quarter Mania begins at noon. Tickets are $30 for pre-sale, and $33 online, including a paddle, a raffle ticket, lunch and a glass of wine. Participants can also bring their own wine, for which there is a $20 corkage fee per bottle. Email Kirsten Penrose at penrose2@yahoo. com for more information. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. sanclementewomansclub.org. SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GHOST WALK 6 p.m. Join Haunted Orange County for a dark, history-filled ghost tour of San Juan Capistrano. Hear the stories of spirits that inhabit the old Los Rios District and make your way through Camino Capistrano to the outskirts of the Mission itself. The tour ends outside the Mission, near the church where a great earthquake struck in 1812 and parishioners were crushed under falling stones. The meeting location is just outside the brick visitor’s information booth near the train tracks located behind the Franciscan Plaza Parking Structure, 26732 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 866.446.7803. hauntedoc.com. LIVE MUSIC AT SWALLOW’S 9 p.m. Live music is featured at one of San Juan Capistrano’s best-known dive bars and country music spots. Bunch O Guys will perform in the afternoon, and Coyote Rebel will perform at 9 p.m. Swallow’s Inn, 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. swallowsinn.com. LIVE MUSIC AT H.H. COTTON’S 7 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular Downtown San Clemente bar and restaurant. Jay Bohen will perform. H.H. Cotton’s, 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.945.6616. hhcottons.com.
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SOUTH OC CARS AND COFFEE 9-11 a.m. South OC Cars and Coffee, dubbed the world’s biggest weekly car meet, attracts a mix of 500-1,000 hypercars, supercars, exotics, vintage, classic, muscle and sports cars, hot rods, rat rods, pickups, 4x4s and motorcycles. No cars in before 8:30 a.m. Cars should enter and leave slowly and quietly—no revving, speeding or burnouts. The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. southoccarsandcoffee.com.
SUNDAY | OCT. 15 STAND UP TO TRASH BEACH CLEANUP: TRASH IS SPOOKY 9-11 a.m. Join Stand Up to Trash at Baby Beach and the Ocean Institute for a beach cleanup followed by a Lunch and Learn at the Ocean Institute. This month’s theme is “Trash Is Spooky.” Lunch will be provided. Dana Point Harbor, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. standuptotrash.com. CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE 7 p.m. Enjoy some rollicking sounds over dinner at this intimate and popular South Orange County venue. Eric Clapton tribute band Journeyman will perform. Tickets are $25. Doors open at 5 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com. SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods from organic growers along Avenida Del Mar. 949 361 8200. san-clemente.org.
MONDAY | OCT. 16 BRIDGE GAME 12:30 p.m. The South Orange County Bridge Club hosts bridge games, Monday through Saturday. The club is a nonprofit owned by the members and welcomes people to use their minds and develop new friendships. They also offer classes for bridge players of different levels. 31461 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite 205, San Juan Capistrano. galesenter@cox.net.
TUESDAY| OCT. 17 STORYTIME AT THE SJC LIBRARY 10:30-11 a.m. Bring the kids to storytime, held every Tuesday morning. Children will get to read books and sing songs. The event is geared for the 2- to 6-year-old age range. San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camithecapistranodispatch.com
GETTING OUT
no Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1752. ocpl.org. COUNTRY NIGHT AT H.H. COTTON’S 5:30 p.m. This popular downtown restaurant offers a night full of country music and line dancing for all ages. Beginners can participate in a $10 Introduction to Line Dancing lesson from 5:30-6:45 p.m. Free line dancing will be offered afterward until 9:30. H.H. Cotton’s, 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.945.6616. hhcottons.com.
WEDNESDAY | OCT. 18 NATIVE AMERICAN BASKET-WEAVING DEMONSTRATIONS 10 a.m-noon. Teeter Marie Olivares Romero,
Ellen Sue Olivares, Susie Fimbres and Wanda Jo Gennaro demonstrate the art of basket weaving on the third Wednesday of the month at the Mission. Basket-weaving demonstrations take place in the front courtyard. The demonstration is free with the price of admission, membership or tour. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com.
949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.
CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE 8 p.m. Enjoy some rollicking sounds over dinner at this intimate and popular South Orange County venue. Stand-up comedy show “Funniest Housewives” will feature a diverse cast of outrageous characters. Tickets are $25. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.
BOATING SKILLS & SEAMANSHIP CLASS 7-9 p.m. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is hosting this comprehensive class, every Wednesday through Oct. 25, designed for experienced boaters, as well as those new to boating. Topics include boating safety, knots, boat handling, radio, and other valuable subjects. Successful completion will earn your California boater
CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE 8 p.m. Enjoy some rollicking sounds over dinner at this intimate and popular South Orange County venue. Rock and roll artist Pat Travers band will perform. Tickets are $38. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.
included Cy Curnin and Jamie West-Oram of The Fixx, Glenn Tilbrook of Squeeze and Slim Jim Phantom of The Stray Cats. In 2011, Love Hope Strength Foundation released the film More to Live For, to promote bone marrow donation efforts. In September 2022, his chronic lymphocytic leukemia relapsed. He was successfully treated, thanks to the North Wales Cancer Centre. To celebrate his recovery and to promote his foundation, Peters and stakeholders trekked 27 miles through the Alps’ Mont Blanc region as part of the Rock the Alps Love Hope Strength Hike. It raised £100,000, or $122,4000, for the Peters’ children’s cancer hospital in Tanzania. “It was a great event,” he said.“A year ago, I was very ill, and I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it. My leukemia had relapsed. I had pneumonia, and my lungs were full of blood. I was in a very precarious position. I missed out on going to the Sahara. My wife, Jules, stepped up and led the track. They raised significant funds. “It was very special for me to actually walk those steps up the Alps and get above the tree line, and walk in the snow. It was a beautiful thing with some great people.” Jules is a breast cancer survivor, too. The couple supports each other and the cancer community worldwide with the Love Hope Strength Foundation. New Music While in the hospital last year, Peters wrote new songs, something for which he is grateful. “I was very lucky to have a lot of music come into my life through various ways that I wasn’t expecting by being in the hospital for a long time,” he said. “I was at home with pneumonia. I was able to create a new Alarm album called ‘Forwards,’ which has been received fantastically well by the fans and press and media. It’s breathed a whole new life into The Alarm. I want to bring all that energy to California.”
“Forwards” entered the U.K. rock chart at No. 4, and the Billboard independent artist chart at No. 21. The collection adheres to Peters’ and The Alarm’s penchant for soaring rock anthems, such as the hits “Sixty Eight Guns,”“Strength” and “Rain in the Summertime.” The California acoustic gigs are important to him. “I want to pack a lot in the short space of time,” he said. “I want to share 40 years of Alarm music and history and the fact that we’re still alive and kicking as a band making new music— and great new music that sounds incredible live as well. “Playing in California is special for me, because it’s actually 40 years since I first played an Alarm show in the USA, in California, in 1983. It was at the San Francisco Civic playing with U2. We’ve had an amazing relationship with California fans ever since. So I’m looking forward to coming back and sharing all that with everybody.” CD
TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE BREWHOUSE 6:30-8:30 p.m. The BrewHouse hosts a trivia night every Wednesday. Test your knowledge with friends or show up solo and join a team. The BrewHouse, 31896 Plaza Drive, Suite D3, San Juan Capistrano. 949.481.6181. brewhousesjc.com.
card. Registration is $70. For more information on how to register, contact Eric Gritzmacher at ericgritzmacher@cox.net or 949.632.2378, or contact Guy Heaton at guyheaton3489@ gmail.com or 949.345.9686. Dana Point Yacht Club, 24399 Dana Drive, Dana Point. cgaux.org.
THURSDAY| OCT. 19
ON STAGE AT THE COACH HOUSE:
A Show of ‘Strength’ Mike Peters to greet fans with pier-to-pier musical stroll BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
W
hen Mike Peters of The Alarm was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 1995, he adopted the mantra “Love Hope Strength.” Since then, he’s made it his mission to educate himself and others about cancer and cancer research. At 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19, Peters will embark on a musical stroll from the Venice Pier to Santa Monica Pier to meet fans and supporters of his Love Hope Strength Foundation. The time will be announced soon. While he’s in town, he’ll play The Coach House at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 22. “I want to try and show people that cancer can be overcome,” he added.“In this day and age, it’s not a death sentence like it used to be when I was growing up and when I first heard the word ‘cancer.’ “There are so many people like me who have blood cancers who need a donor for a stem cell transplant to live again, outside of their cancer diagnosis. That can come from the general public. Every person in the world who has a blood cancer needs donors to survive, and each has a match out there in the world.” Peters is trying to show the public that each one can be a life-saving match of some sort, whether it’s a heart, bone marrow, liver, eyes. “This is going to be a nice event where we can connect on the seafront walk between the piers and play a bit of music, talk to each other, and, and reconnect after all this time,”
Peters said.“We still have a lot to do with the Love Hope Strength Foundation.” Besides his treatments, Peters has witnessed the miracle of organ donation. Before his friend’s son died, he left a message on his phone saying he wanted to be an organ donor. As a result, he saved five lives. “Even in death, there is still beauty to be attained,” Peters said. He and his wife, Jules, encourage folks to undergo regular screenings for cancer to try to avoid the disease’s grip. “Even if it comes late, you could still, by having a positive mental attitude, have one more day as a result of not giving in and being able to speak to your loved one,” Peters said.“You can tell them you love them or sign that paper that gives your organs away to save somebody else’s life. That’s a beautiful thing.” Longtime Battle In 1996, Peters recovered from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and began recording and touring again. Nearly 10 years later, Peters was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. He co-founded the Love Hope Strength Foundation with fellow patient James Chippendale, the president of CSI Entertainment in Dallas. Peters, along with 38 other musicians, cancer survivors and supporters, trekked for 14 days to the Mount Everest base camp to perform the highest concert on land to raise awareness and money to fight cancer. Other musicians in the October 2007 hike
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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SHOW DETAILS:
Mike Peters Pier-to-Pier Walk WHEN: 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19 WHERE: Location to be determined COST: Free INFO: thealarm.com To sign up to participate in the walk, visit https://bit.ly/MikePetersPier Mike Peters WHEN: 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22 WHERE: The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano COST: Tickets start at $25 INFO: thecoachhouse.com Love Hope Strength Foundation lovehopestrength.org
thecapistranodispatch.com
GETTING OUT
AT THE MOVIES:
‘The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar’ BY MEGAN BIANCO
H
ow lucky for movie fans when a beloved filmmaker releases not just one, but two features in a single year. In 2023, we get not only Asteroid City from indie film legend Wes Anderson, but also The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, which is his second screen adaptation of a Roald Dahl story since Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009). If you’re familiar with Anderson’s work and are one of those casual fans who feel his style and technique have become “indulgent,” “bloated,”“spastic,” and “predictable,” then Henry Sugar might actually be for you. At a swift 40 minutes with only six actors inside a soundstage, this is Anderson at his most “less is more” since Hotel Chevalier (2007).
Set in early 20th century England and India, we follow both Henry Sugar (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Imdad Khan (Ben Kingsley) as they reveal to the audience how they developed the ability to levitate and interact without direct eye contact. Imdad learned a magical method of meditation from an old guru known as The Great Yogi (Richard Ayoade), and Henry discovered the method from a study on Imdad published by Dr. Chatterjee (Dev Patel). Ralph Fiennes portrays Dahl himself as one of the narrators, and the five actors play most of the minor roles throughout the film, as well. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar was produced and released by Netflix, along with three 15-minute shorts–The Swan, The Ratcatcher and Poison–directed by Anderson, also based on Dahl stories. Henry Sugar has been receiving critical acclaim for its small production values to match the modest runtime (i.e., no special effects beyond some basic props and not even an official score), as well as for all the characters perfectly cast. Cumberbatch and Patel, in particular, stand out nicely and would fit in well with Anderson’s usual ensemble. It is nice to
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
Photo: Courtesy of Netflix
see the filmmaker have a calming, mellow atmosphere compared to the overly ambitious and exciting nature of his pictures in recent years. But, ironically, the scaled-back effort here made me realize I do like when he makes the most of his resources, too. I especially missed Anderson’s usually stellar soundtracks of 1960s/1970s tracks or
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original music by composers such as Mark Mothersbaugh and Alexandre Desplat. Anderson’s choice to have all the dialogue just be the original book text from Henry Sugar spoken as narration by the actors might not work for some viewers, either (it didn’t for me). But at the end of the day, it’s good to be a Wes Anderson fan this season.
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The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
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SJC LIVING
GUEST OPINION | Moments In Time by Jan Siegel
missionaries called Juaneno. local Native Americans from a CathChinigehinix told his people, olic priest perspective, he clearly “I make all things, and I shall pointed out how important religion create people for your people, was to the Native people. He related distinct from yourselves, the life of their prophet Chinigehiwhom you shall soon see.” The nix, spelled in his version with the people believed Chinigehinix x being pronounced as in CatalMOMENTS IN TIME BY “was everywhere present, that onian. According to Harrington, JAN SIEGEL he saw everything, though it the original treatise by Boscana was a dark night, but that no included “an introduction, writone could see him; that he ten in very fervent tone, followed was a friend of the good and punished by 15 chapters devoted respectively to the wicked.” All of this was passed down the subjects of origin, creation, tradiin an oral tradition, generation after tion, history of the traditional leaders, generation. Ouiot and Chinigehinix, instruction Next month, the lifestyle of the early of children, marriage, general manner Juanenos will be discussed. In the of life, chiefsmanship, description of meantime, you can spend a “Moment in the native temples, feasts and dances, Time” enjoying learning more about our calendar, extravagancies, burials and Native Americans by visiting Putuidem funerals, beliefs of immortality, origin of Village and the Blas Aguilar Adobe. the inhabitants of San Juan Capistrano Jan Siegel was a 33-year resident of San Mission and list with etymologies of 15 Juan Capistrano and now resides in the rancherias inhabited by these Indians.” neighboring town of Rancho Mission Viejo. Quiot was the Chief, and ChinigeShe served on the city’s Cultural Heritage hinix was God. Harrington’s version Commission for 13 years, has been a was published on June 27, 1934, by the volunteer guide for the San Juan CapistSmithsonian Institution. Harrington also rano Friends of the Library’s architectural had access to Fr. St. John O’Sullivan’s walking tour for 26 years and is currently notes written in San Juan Capistrano. the museum curator for the San Juan CapWhile many of O’Sullivan’s notes have istrano Historical Society. She was named been lost, Harrington had copied many Woman of the Year by the Chamber of of them in his notes, and they are still Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year available from the Smithsonian archives. in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s It was Chinigehinix who created the Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD people called Acjachemen whom the
Life and Times of Native Juanenos
T
his is the first of a two-part series on the life and times of our local Native Americans. We are currently going through some very difficult times in this country. In order for history to have any meaning, it has to include all history–the good, the bad and the ugly. And the great thing about history is that new information can always add to the knowledge of the past. New discoveries are happening every day by archaeologists from around the world. October 12 used to be called Columbus Day, but now it has adopted a new approach and is referred to as Indigenous Peoples Day. The word Indian has been replaced by Native American. But how much do you really know about the Native American? It is unfortunate that the peoples of North America had no written language. But fortunately for us, there has been some documentation over the years on the history of our local Native Americans.
It all started with Fr. Boscana in 1822. Prior to Fr. Boscana, the only treatises on Native Americans in California or even the Southwest were written by captains or passengers on sailing ships. There were also some church records, but there were no good descriptions of a tribe and its customs before Boscana. In 1846, Alfred Robinson wrote in his Life In California, a loose translation of Bocana’s work. In the 1930s, John Harrington, an ethnologist from the Bureau of American Ethnology, was sent to the Southwest, and particularly California, to study and record Native American culture, language and history. In Harrington’s research, he discovered the original document written by Boscana. The discrepancies in Robinson’s work were corrected. Since Boscana’s native language was Catalan, not Spanish, Robinson’s translations were either omitted or misinterpreted. Although Boscana wrote about the
GUEST OPINION | On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake
Email of ‘Angry Woman’ Draws Ire of 12 Senior Women
E
ach week, I distribute by email an online Senior Dating blog. In last week’s edition, I quoted an email that Trish, 62, divorced 10 years, sent to me. Her email got my attention, because she wrote that she is “an angry woman” and questioned whether she can ever love again. In detail, she described her relationship with a man aged 69. Trish says she sees the man almost daily, and he adores her and wants to marry her. She described him as a Southern redneck with no class and little education. He does maintenance projects for free around her house. There is no physical aspect to their relationship. She’s not interested in a relationship with him. She wonders if she’s being fair to him. Trish’s story struck a chord with many eNewsletter subscribers, especially women. Here’s what 12 of them wrote (edited for brevity):
Dee: “I cannot imagine why a 62-year-old woman, or a 69-year-old man, would accept a no-physical-contact relationship. She has deep-seated issues, and if I were him, I would run as fast as I could, since eventually, her obvious disdain of him will wear him down emotionally and mentally.” Margaret: “No physical stuff. She must be kidding.” Kaitte: “I’m 71, and have been single for 23 years. Trish should talk to him and be honest laying all your cards on the table and let the chips fall where they may. If he wants to set her up financially, he can do that without marriage.” Deanne: “I was with my husband for 33 years. Widowhood wiped out my confidence., and I just can’t get out there and flirt. I know I’d be a good catch, but it seems like I’m starting all over again. I wish I had signed up for the Golden Bachelor.”
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
Terri: “Trish needs to see a therapist. A letter to a columa man who views their time nist may list the issues, but it together so deeply differently doesn’t deal with the issues in that it seems heartbreaking to the healthy way that sessions continue such an endeavor. with a good therapist can. “Her words jerked me back “Life has not always been and forth as she went on. Show ON LIFE AND LOVE this poor man some mercy and kind to me. I’ve survived lots AFTER 50 of losses, very serious health let him go find a lady who will BY TOM BLAKE issues, and dealt with my life embrace his giving spirit and issues in therapy over the past talents.” several years.” Shelby: “If you don’t love ’em, you’re Susie: “Trish’s story is a lot like mine, using’ em, period. She needs to work and it hit home. I am much older, but on whatever demons haunt her.” still hope I can feel the magic again.” Regina: “Reading Trish’s situation, Virgina: “Trish needs psychological she just isn’t feeling it for the dude. assistance to get herself straightened Whereas, I want that guy! She should out. So many mismatched red flags. let him loose and give me his number!” “It’s not fair to keep him around just Laurie Jo: “What the hell is wrong for the surface conveniences. He may with this woman? Good grief! I’m so be a redneck, but he should not be takupset at her! I can’t even keep typing.” en advantage of just because he’s found I will be making a presentation on someone he considers would normally the Challenges of Senior Dating on Tuesday, November 7, at the Dana West be out of his reach.” Yacht Club, 5-7 p.m. No charge. Public Marge: “I’m doing all I can to cope, invited. To RSVP, contact Pat Chiku at but right now I’m in the throes of the storm. And I know that in the long run, 714.595.8672. my life will be better than it is now. I’m Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and resident who has working very hard to meet the challenges.” authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. Rhen: “Trish is too self-focused to realize she should let this guy go! She has To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. CD
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thecapistranodispatch.com
SJC LIVING ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK
Archie
Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter
THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH
Two-year-old Archie is a happy boy who always brings a smile to your face. Energetic and very sweet, his favorite place to be is by your side. He gets along well with other dogs and loves a doggie playdate. With his outgoing demeanor, Archie would make a great addition to just about any family. If you are interested in adopting Archie, please visit petprojectfoundation.org/adoptions/ to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to animalservices@ scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. CD
Sudoku BY MYLES MELLOR
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION:
Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium
Photo: Courtesy of Burton O. Burt/Los Angeles Public Library
FROM THE ARCHIVES Downtown San Juan Capistrano in the 1950s, between 1955 and 1959.
Every issue, The Capistrano Dispatch will publish a historical photo. To submit your historical photo for consideration, provide information about the photo along with your name, date, location and a small description to sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com. See the solution in next week’s issue.
GUEST OPINION | Eat My Words by Cherl Pruett
Flavors of Fall Go Beyond Pumpkin Spice
P
umpkin spice and other things nice–lattes don’t have a monopoly on fall flavors. Autumn taste treats are in surprising places at restaurants and eateries nearby for breakfasts, dinners, cocktails and desserts. The taste of fall arrives, and the whiff of autumn aromas is in the air. Restaurants, cafés, diners and more bring autumn to the menus. Cinnamon. Maple. Apple. Pumpkin. Pecans. Smell the season yet? Here are a few ideas for the time of year that offer homey flavors, perhaps giving off a vibe reminiscent of these 1844 poem lyrics: “Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother’s house we go.” Morning flavors La Galette Creperie, 612 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.5335. lagalettesc.com. Start an autumn morning with a
maple crepe with butter, powdered sugar, real maple syrup. Add bananas or berries, if you like. Denny’s, 34242 Del Obispo, Dana Point. 949.489.4383. dennys.com. True fall flavor: Pumpkin Pecan Pancake Slam. Dig into buttermilk pancakes prepared with real pumpkin pie filling, glazed pecans and topped with pecan pie sauce. It’s served with eggs, hash browns, plus bacon strips or sausage links. (Seasonal) A Meal for the Season Bloom Restaurant + Bar, 31760 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.503.2654. bloomsanjuancapistrano.com. Traditional and creative meld in the Crispy Pork Belly and Pumpkin-Ricotta gnocchi with Vermont maple syrup, candied walnut crumbles and sage brown butter.
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
Rocco’s, 203 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.388.7766. opentable.com/roccos-restaurant. Pumpkin ravioli says autumn all the way. Pumpkin-filled ravioli arrives with diced Roma tomatoes, browned butter sage sauce and fresh parmesan cheese, topped with fresh arugula.
Yes, Soup for You The Little Kitchen Asian Café, 24831 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.276.7799. littlekitchenasiancafe.com. A vegetarian option is the kabocha pumpkin soup. Kabocha is a Japanese winter squash, similar to pumpkin and usually with a sweet flavor.
Sweet Fall Treats Sugar Blossom Bake Shop, 202 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.429.5555. sugarblossombakeshop.com. Why not order to go? Try Salted Caramel Cake, a vanilla cake filled with salted caramel buttercream and salted caramel drizzle. Order four days in advance for this four-layer cake with three layers of filling. Another same-size option to order ahead is the Sweet ‘n’ Spiced Carrot Cake filled with cream cheese and iced in vanilla butter cream (no nuts or raisins).
Drink Up: Autumn Flavor to Sip Stillwater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. danapointstillwater.com. Try a different coffee flavor. Stillwater offers a Maple & Vanilla Irish Coffee with Jameson Irish Whiskey, Benedictine, brown sugar, maple syrup and vanilla whipped cream. Happy autumn!
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, 610 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente. 949.312.2304. handelsicecream.com. Lick it up or spoon it down. We all scream for ice cream. Fall flavors include pumpkin pie, apple pie, pumpkin cheesecake and pumpkin pecan.
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Mayfield, 31761 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.218.5140. mayfieldoc.com. The Fancy Man is coffee without the alcohol, but lots of flavor. The cappuccino is made with maple syrup, cinnamon, and topped with Maldon smoked sea salt. Cheryl Pruett is an award-winning journalist and editor, having covered Orange County city and county topics to the food scene for Orange County Register, Patch.com and local magazines. She has called Dana Point/Capistrano Beach home for more than 30 years. CD thecapistranodispatch.com
SJC SPORTS
RESOUNDING RESULTS City football teams post strong starts in league play BY ZACH CAVANAGH With San Juan Hills opening its Sea View League schedule on Friday, Oct. 13, all four San Juan Capistrano high school football teams will have entered league play, and all with strong results. Whether it’s JSerra making an early mark on the Trinity League playoff race, St. Margaret’s bouncing back in a big way or Capistrano Valley Christian and San Juan Hills continuing their offensive rolls, each city team is making a big late-season push for the CIF-SS playoffs. Let’s check in with each squad on their recent results and how their league playoff races are shaping up:
San Juan Hills is 7-0 for First Time Since 2015
For only the second time in program history, San Juan Hills is 7-0 as the Stallions come off their bye week into Sea View League play. The Stallions, ranked No. 21 in CIF-SS by CalPreps, have never been 8-0, but the reigning Sea View League champions will be big favorites heading into their opener at home against El Toro on Friday. It’s been a big turnaround for the San Juan Hills program after opening the past two seasons with marks of 0-6 and 0-7, and the Stallions got to 7-0 this season with a dramatic rivalry win over Tesoro to recapture the Mission Bell on Sept. 29. After Tesoro took the lead for the first time with just over a minute remaining, San Juan Hills senior Colton Chase caught a ball over the middle from sophomore Timmy Herr and cut into the end zone with 0.6 seconds left to grab the game back for the Stallions, 27-24, sending the student section streaking onto the field to claim the rivalry trophy for the Stallions for just the second time. San Juan Hills led, 20-7, on a 38-yard field goal by Manuel Maganda to open the third quarter, but Tesoro slowly fought back. Lance Guerrero kicked a 41yard field goal in the third quarter, and
following two chunk-play passes from Cash O’Byrne, Travis Wood scored on a 1-yard touchdown to cut the San Juan Hills lead to three points. After taking the ball from its own 15yard line with four minutes left, Tesoro fought off two San Juan Hills sacks on the drive and marched 85 yards to grab the lead on a 12-yard pass from O’Byrne to Guerrero, who fought for the end zone to score. Tesoro now led by four points, 24-20, with San Juan Hills taking the ball at its own 36-yard line with about a minute to play. Herr took control of the game with a calm, collected one-minute drill, finding receivers on the outside and converting two third downs. From the Tesoro 16-yard line, Herr found Chase cutting in from the right, and with a catch at the 5-yard line, the senior receiver turned upfield and into the end zone for the clinching score with 0.6 seconds remaining.
JSerra Holding onto Final Playoff Spot in Tight Trinity League
First-year JSerra head coach Victor Santa Cruz’s first Trinity League win with the Lions may end up being the most important, as JSerra holds an edge on the third and final playoff spot in the Trinity League through two league games. Last season, JSerra upset Orange Lutheran in the final game of the season to force a three-way tie for that third spot with the Lancers and Santa Margarita, which saw all three teams earn a spot in the CIF-SS Division 1 playoff bracket. This season, that de facto playoff game may have just been JSerra’s league opener, as the Lions once again leaned on their defense to knock off Orange Lutheran, 24-14, at home on Sept. 29. Senior linebacker Rocco Panicola picked off the Lancers (4-3, 1-1) for a touchdown with 1:21 to play to seal the victory. Now, following a 42-0 road loss to national No. 1 Mater Dei last Friday, Oct. 6, the Lions (4-3, 1-1) have an opportunity to effectively seal their playoff spot as
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
San Juan Hills moved to 7-0 for the second time in school history with a dramatic rivalry win for the Mission Bell over Tesoro on Sept. 29. The Stallions look to go 8-0 for the first time in school history in their Sea View League opener against El Toro at home on Friday, Oct. 13. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57
they host rival Santa Margarita (4-3, 0-2) this Friday, Oct. 13. Santa Margarita, ranked No. 8 in CIF-SS by CalPreps, needs a win over the Lions, ranked No. 7, to stay in the race for a guaranteed playoff berth. The Eagles lost their league opener to St. John Bosco, 42-7, and fell in their own crucial game against Orange Lutheran, 28-21. JSerra hosts St. John Bosco next Friday, Oct. 20, and is on the road against Servite on Oct. 27.
St. Margaret’s Finds Offense in League Bounceback
It was a slow start to the Dan O’Shea era for St. Margaret’s, as the Tartans dropped four of their first five games under their new head coach, including their Orange Coast League opener at Santa Ana, 49-36, on Sept. 14. However, St. Margaret’s (3-4, 2-1) has found its edge over its past two league games, and the Tartans are now sitting in second place, comfortably in playoff position. St. Margaret’s won on the road over Orange, 28-22, and at home over Estancia, 54-6. In three league games, senior quarterback Max Ruff threw for a combined 11 touchdowns and 873 yards, and convert-
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ed volleyball star senior Russell Frye has caught 22 passes for 202 yards and three scores in his first-ever three games of league football. Coming off a bye week, the Tartans host Costa Mesa (2-5, 1-2) on Friday, Oct. 13.
Capistrano Valley Christian Keeps Rolling
As the Mesquite League portion of its schedule came around, Capistrano Valley Christian kept firing, and the Eagles are sitting comfortably in first place through two games. CVCS (5-1, 2-0) won a crucial opener at Linfield Christian of Temecula, 24-22, and soared over Western Christian of Upland, 42-21, to sit alone in first place in the Mesquite League. In those two league games, junior quarterback Nate Richie has thrown for six touchdown passes and 555 yards passing, with junior receiver Max Krosky catching 12 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns. Senior running back JP Synnott rushed for 202 yards and two touchdowns against Western Christian. Capistrano Valley hosts Riverside Prep this Friday, Oct. 13, at Aliso Niguel High School. CD thecapistranodispatch.com
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SJC SPORTS
SAN JUAN PREPS ROUNDUP BY ZACH CAVANAGH For in-game updates, news and more for all the San Juan Capistrano high school sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCSports and on Instagram @South_OC_Sports.
San Juan Hills Girls Volleyball Edged Out of Playoffs Without Star Alex Stone
As one of the three reigning co-champions in the South Coast League, the San Juan Hills girls volleyball team was set up for more success, but going into the final week of the season, all three reigning co-champs–the Stallions, San Clemente, and Aliso Niguel–were all tied for second place in the league, with only two playoff berths left unclaimed. For San Juan Hills, the final stretch was an uphill battle, as the Stallions were left without Montana-committed star Alex Stone due to an ACL tear in the opening set of the second round of league play. Ultimately, the Stallions battled, but couldn’t find that extra edge in the South Coast League playoff race. The Stallions dropped their final three matches, including a five-set defeat on Senior Night against league champion Dana Hills on Monday, Oct. 9, and a fourset road loss in a de facto playoff match at Aliso Niguel on Wednesday, Oct. 11, to miss out on the CIF-SS playoffs. San Juan Hills (11-12, 3-5) finished fourth in the league standings, and with an overall losing record, the Stallions were ineligible for at-large selection to the CIFSS playoffs. Multiple South Coast League coaches voiced unprompted support and empathy for the injured Stone after matches against San Juan Hills in the past week. “It was really tough to play a match without Alex on the other side,” San Clemente coach Casey Swenson said. “For me, as a coach, I’m just devastated for her and that team. It’s always the most fun when everyone is at their best. “To see and talk to Birdie (Stone), she’s such a great kid,” Dana Hills coach Tom Hoff said, “and I just told her a little bit beforehand; I’ve asked a lot of people about her. There’s not one person that said anything but what you see in the match is what you see in practice. She’s a great kid, hard worker, team player, and it’s devas-
tating to see. And I know she’s going to come back better.” The senior was set to graduate early from San Juan Hills to join her future college teammates at Montana in January.
JSerra Girls Volleyball Claims Trinity League Playoff Spot
Behind national No. 1 and easy league champion Mater Dei, which dropped only three sets in eight league matches, it was a razor-thin margin in the Trinity League playoff race, but JSerra did just enough to punch its ticket to the CIF-SS playoffs. With a four-set win at Santa Margarita on Oct. 5, the Lions sealed one of the topthree positions in the Trinity League to claim a guaranteed playoff berth. JSerra (24-10, 4-3) is currently No. 10 in the CIF-SS Division 1 and 2 combined poll, which would slot the Lions in as the No. 2 seed in the Division 2 playoff bracket. The top eight teams in the poll are selected for the Division 1 round-robin playoffs. If the Lions won their season finale at home over Rosary on Thursday, Oct. 12, the Lions would finish second in the Trinity League, with Orange Lutheran finishing third. JSerra swept Rosary (16-12, 0-7) on the road and split its matches with Orange Lutheran, with sweeps going each way. The CIF-SS playoffs begin next Thursday, Oct. 19. JSerra has never won a CIF-SS championship, and the Lions were removed from their only CIF-SS Finals appearance ahead of the 2021 Division 3 title game due to using an ineligible player during that playoff run.
CVCS Girls Volleyball Stays at No. 1 After Perfect League Run
San Juan Hills girls volleyball was without Montana-committed star Alex Stone for the second round of league play due to an ACL tear, so the Stallions couldn’t find their extra edge and missed the CIF-SS playoffs. Photo: Zach Cavanagh
The Capistrano Valley Christian girls volleyball team looks primed and ready to finally recapture a CIF-SS championship in the Division 4 playoffs. The Eagles did not drop a single set in 12 league matches to run unbeaten through the San Joaquin League, and Capistrano Valley Christian (28-3) maintains its No. 1 ranking in Division 4 entering the CIF-SS postseason. Capistrano Valley Christian has not won a girls volleyball championship since its Division V title in 1992. The Eagles have since been back to the CIF-SS Finals in Division 9 in 2016, in Division 8 in 2017 and Division 7 in 2021. Last season, the Eagles fell in the Division 5 semifinals. CIF-SS playoffs begin on Thursday, Oct. 19.
St. Margaret’s Girls Volleyball Dominates Orange Coast League
After dropping just one set over the course of 11 league matches, the St. Mar-
The Capistrano Dispatch October 13 - October 26, 2023
garet’s girls volleyball team ran away with the Orange Coast League championship. The Tartans dropped the third set of their opening league match against Costa Mesa on Aug. 31 and never looked back. St. Margaret’s fully secured the league championship for itself with a home sweep of Calvary Chapel on Wednesday, Oct. 11. St. Margaret’s looked to finish its unbeaten run in the Orange Coast League at home against Orange on Thursday, Oct. 12, but results were not available at press time. The Tartans will compete in the Division 3 playoffs, which begin on Thursday, Oct. 19.
JSerra Boys Water Polo Retains No. 1 Ranking, Eyes Open Division Playoffs The JSerra boys water polo team has knocked down all contenders for the top
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spot in the regular season, and now the Lions are simply sharpening their claws for the CIF-SS Open Division playoffs. JSerra (17-0, 3-0) has been ranked at No. 1 in CIF-SS Division 1 all season, with a key win over No. 2 Newport Harbor, 10-9, for the Delfina USA Classic title on Sept. 30 and three wins over No. 3 Harvard-Westlake, including a 15-13 road win on Oct. 7. JSerra will compete in the North-South Challenge on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 1314, and the Lions have two matches left in the Trinity League against St. John Bosco on Oct. 18 and at Servite on Oct. 25. After that, the Lions will be looking for vindication in the CIF-SS Open Division playoffs. JSerra was denied its first Open Division championship by Newport Harbor last season, but the Lions did exact some revenge with a win over the Sailors for the CIF State SoCal Regional title. JSerra won its only CIF-SS title in the 2019 Division 4 Final over San Juan Hills.
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