DECEMBER 8 -DECEMBER 21, 2023 | VOLUME 21, ISSUE 23
INSIDE: HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
The Capistr ano Dispatc
h Decem
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ber 14, 2023 Page 11
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2023 Winter Sports Showcase High-Flying High School Teams Take Aim at Championship Aspirations S P O R T S / PAG E 20 Led by Colorado commit Sebastian Rancik, JSerra boys basketball has the talent and experience to compete for the program’s first CIF-SS championship. Photo: Zach Cavanagh
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Council Appoints Farias to Serve as Mayor for 2024
In-N-Out Set to Open New Location in San Juan
JSerra Girls Cross Country Captures Second State Championship Three-Peat
EYE ON SJC / PAGE 3
EYE ON SJC / PAGE 4
SPORTS / PAGE 22
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The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
Crazy Christmas House & Santa’s Toy Drive This activity is not a DoD sponsored activity and is not endorsed by the USMC. The products or services advertised in this flyer are not endorsed by the DoD or USMC Page 2
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EYE ON SJC
Council Appoints Farias to Serve as Mayor for 2024
COMMUNITY MEETINGS SATURDAY, DEC. 9
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.
BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO
Councilmember Sergio Farias is set to serve as the mayor of San Juan Capistrano in 2024, alongside Councilmember Troy Bourne as the mayor pro tem, following a unanimous City Council vote during the last meeting of the year on Tuesday night, Dec. 5. “It’s a privilege to do it,” Farias said of the appointment after thanking his wife and daughter for allowing him to continue serving the city in the leadership role. For Farias, this will be his second go-round in the mayoral role after previously holding the position in 2018. With Farias replacing Councilmember Howard Hart as mayor, Farias credited his predecessor for the “remarkable job” he did, all while holding down a full-time job. “It’s very difficult on our families, and also, sometimes, on our employers,” Farias noted. “So you did a remarkable job doing that. The first time I was mayor, I was a little underemployed—self-employed and underemployed— so I had all the time in the world.” As the mayor, Farias is expected to attend more city functions and events as the town’s figurehead. He’ll also chair the council meetings—which he hopes to continue doing in an effective, well-run manner as has been accomplished in his more recent years on the council. “It’s difficult to be part of a meeting that’s not well-run. It’s one of the frustrating things that you could be part of. But I haven’t seen that in quite some time,” he said, before touching on the amount of work he and his fellow elected officials remain committed to accomplishing in the year ahead. “I know that we’re going to accomplish a lot; we’ve got a lot of projects that are exciting in this community,” he said. “There’s a lot of projects that have been completed. There’s a lot of projects that we’re working on. I look forward to working with my colleagues and representing the City of San Juan Capistrano.” During his remarks, Bourne echoed Farias’ sentiments, expressing appreciation to Hart for how he ran the council’s meetings over the past year, and how he interacted with the com-
Crazy Christmas House to Hold Annual Toy Drive BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO
In partnership with the San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club, the San Juan Capistrano Crazy Christmas House is holding
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. TUESDAY, DEC. 12
The San Juan Capistrano City Council unanimously voted to appoint Councilmember Sergio Farias to serve as the town mayor for 2024. Photo: Shawn Raymundo
munity. “I think the way the community approaches us reflects how we approach the community,” he said. “We’ve been able to be collaborative, because you’ve been congenial. And we welcome comments, we welcome criticism. And when it’s done in a neighborly spirit, we can really see a lot of things done without the contention that can sometimes debilitate the process that we all want for our town.” Hart was appointed by his fellow elected officials to be the mayor for 2023. In that time, he noted during his outgoing remarks, he and the council oversaw the completion of many projects and approved others that are now in the works. “As your mayor, it’s been incredibly rewarding to see so many projects completed this past year while also continuing to preserve and celebrate the rich history of San Juan Capistrano,” Hart said, before noting that he and the council adopted a “landmark” budget that included more than $9 million in investments for enhancements around the town. Some of those projects achieved or started with those funds include the initiative to rehabilitate San Juan’s streets and beautify parks, especially the city’s sports park. He also pointed to the groundbreaking of a new City Hall and Council Chambers, which is being accomplished through the public-private partnership with Jamboree Housing. The new Council Chambers, Hart noted, is expected to be completed by next month,
ahead of the council’s next regular meeting. “No pressure,” he joked to an amused audience while looking at City Manager Ben Siegel. Hart said that what he’ll remember most are the community members he met, notably during his Lunch with the Mayor events, the “incredible” city staff that Siegel assembled, and his colleagues on the council, whom he called “friends.” “I cannot think of a classier, more selfless group of public servants than those sitting on the dais beside me,” he said. Hart further compared his tenure as mayor to the last cool job he had. “Throughout my professional career, I’ve enjoyed many honors and titles,” Hart said, “but being the city’s mayor has been the coolest job I’ve had since working at Tower Records in college.” Recognizing that councilmembers’ spouses “put up with an awful lot,” Hart thanked his wife, Laura, as he “could not have done this without your support and encouragement.” After Farias, who served as mayor pro tem for 2023, presented Hart with a commemorative gavel recognizing his predecessor’s time as mayor, he gave Laura Hart a bouquet of flowers on behalf of the city. But not to be outdone, Hart also had a bouquet of his own to give to his wife. “The mayor is making every previous mayor look bad by actually buying his own flowers, not the flowers the city purchased,” Farias joked.
its 17th annual Crazy Christmas House & Santa’s Toy Drive, which is meant to help enlisted Marine Corps families stationed at Camp Pendleton. On Thursday, Dec. 14, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., the local Rotary is inviting the community to bring unwrapped toys that will be donated to Marines and their families within the I Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) unit of Camp Pendleton. Participants can take pictures with San-
ta, as well as visit with local Marines and California Highway Patrol officers. There will also be hot cocoa and cookies to enjoy. The fundraiser will be held at 31192 Calle Del Camp, San Juan Capistrano. Those unable to attend the fundraiser can make monetary donations through The Crazy Christmas House’s GoFundMe page. All donations will be used to purchase toys for the Marine families.
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
Page 3
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, DEC. 13
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, DEC. 14
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, DEC. 15
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. MONDAY, DEC. 18
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. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 20
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. Zoning Administrator 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Zoning Administrator will hold a regularly scheduled meeting open to the public. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org. FRIDAY, DEC. 22
The next print edition of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes. thecapistranodispatch.com
EYE ON SJC
In-N-Out Opens New Location in San Juan BY BREEANA GREENBERG
As the latest In-N-Out Burger location was poised to open its doors in San Juan Capistrano on Thursday, Dec. 7, locals can now get their fix of the popular California chain’s burgers, fries and shakes. Located off Del Obispo Street, the new In-N-Out replaced the old Marie Callender’s building and added a drive-thru lane. City Manager Ben Siegel said in an email that “the city is pleased to welcome In-N-Out to San Juan Capistrano, as the company has built a reputation as both a great corporate citizen and high quality employer.” Danny Dugan, a 25-year In-N-Out employee, will manage the new location, the burger joint said in a media release. The San Juan Capistrano In-N-Out Burger will employ roughly 80 “burger associates,” with starting pay at $19 per hour, In-N-Out said. The new location will have “one drive-thru lane, indoor seating for 84 guests, and a covered patio with outdoor seating for 28 guests. All In-N-Out Burger locations are open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. and until 1:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday,” according to the release. San Juan Capistrano City Council voted, 3-2, to approve the new burger joint in February 2022 after a traffic analysis
Runners Support The Reserve with Annual Turkey Trot BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO
Before gathering with family and friends to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast, roughly 1,460 people pushed themselves to complete Rancho Mission Viejo’s annual holiday race to support the community’s Nature Reserve. The Turkey Trot on The Ranch attracted nearly 1,200 people on Thursday morning, Nov. 23, to participate in 10K and 5K races throughout the town. Roughly 300 children registered to run or walk in the Gobbler’s 1K race. Racers in the 10K and 5K started from Rancho Mission Viejo’s The Pavillion, making their way to the finish line at Sendero Field. Before each race began, 12-year-old Emma Hebda from Ladera Ranch Middle sang the National Anthem. This year’s leading male and female runners for the 10K were David Cum-
concluded that the new In-N-Out posed no significant cumulative impact on local intersections. The study noted that there will not be a cumulative impact, because the intersection close to San Juan Elementary School, Mission School and Pre-College Prep School already received a failure grade for its level of service that’s associated with the school pick-up times. Responding to resident concerns about the anticipated adverse traffic impacts of the new In-N-Out, Siegel noted that “the city’s traffic engineering team is actively working with In-N-Out to prepare for what is expected to be higher-than-normal traffic volume during the first few weeks of opening, commonly known as the ‘novelty period’ and typically experienced whenever In-N-Out opens a new restaurant.” The new burger joint location’s unique Mission Revival architecture is expected to bring in a crowd as well, on top of the usual boost of traffic that new In-N-Out franchises experience as people flock to be the first to dine at the newest locations. As first reported by the Orange County Register, the new San Juan location is only the second to sport the Mission Revival architecture after In-N-Out opened a location along Avenida Pico in San Clemente in December 2022. The new In-N-Out Burger is located at 31791 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano.
mings of Corona, with a time of 34:54, and Carla McAlister of San Clemente, with a time of 41.04. Alahana Thomas of Ladera Ranch (42:55) and Rancho Mission Viejo’s own Alice Pai (44:34) rounded out the rest of the 10K’s female finalists. For the men’s side, there were Tyler Kastorff of San Juan Capistrano (34:59) and Jeremy Gruber of Berkley (38:43). As for the 5K race, San Clemente’s Catrina McAlister (17:52) and Cocean McAlister (17:29) won for the women’s and men’s divisions, respectively. Trinity Stable of San Juan Capistrano (19:36) and Jennifer Borie of Laguna Niguel (19:45) finished second and third, respectively, for the women’s side of the 5K, while RMV’s James Russo (18:21) and Hudson LaFond of Mission Viejo (19:08) ended the race as finalists for the men. According to The Ranch, all proceeds from the Turkey Trot go toward the Nature Reserve, which offers education programs and leads conservation efforts of the land. This year’s race raised a record $40,000.
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
Page 4
In-N-Out Burger was scheduled to open its newest location in San Juan Capistrano, off Del Obispo Street, on Thursday, Dec. 7. Photo: Shawn Raymundo
Dog Owners Advised to Watch Out for Respiratory Symptoms, Avoid Exposure to Other Canines BY BREEANA GREENBERG
As veterinarians see a severe respiratory illness spreading among dogs, pet owners are advised to avoid unnecessary gatherings of dogs to reduce the chance of exposure. Though Coastal Animal Services Authority (CASA) has not seen cases of the respiratory illness in its shelter, General Manager Jennifer Stinnet offered recommendations to pet owners to help keep their dogs safe. Scientific American notes that at least 15 states have reported instances of the canine respiratory illness, which causes a long-lasting cough and pneumonia that does not respond to antibiotics. In an emailed statement, Stinett said the shelter has not seen any illness, nor heard of any cases in the community or local boarding facilities. “Illness is always a concern and some-
thing we watch out for, and we need to be aware that it may become a factor in our community at any time,” Stinett said. “We have been advised by our consulting veterinarians, that at this time not a lot is known about this illness. We should watch our own dog population at the shelter and advise pet owners to do the same, for signs of respiratory illness and report symptoms to a vet immediately.” Stinett shared a message from the LA Veterinary Public Health, which noted that pet owners are “advised to isolate sick dogs at home for 28 days” after the onset of symptoms or when hospitalized and “quarantine exposed dogs at home for 14 days to monitor them for clinical signs.” Pet owners are also advised to keep dogs away from “day care, boarding kennels, grooming facilities, and dog parks, if their dog is ill for any reason.” CASA recommends pet owners watch out for coughing, sneezing, nose or eye discharge and lethargy, adding that it’s important to consult one’s veterinarian immediately if these signs develop. The shelter notes that pet owners should avoid unnecessary gatherings of dogs, keep a close eye out for symptoms and keep vaccinations up to date to protect their pets.
Coastal Animal Services Authority is advising pet owners to monitor their dogs for respiratory symptoms amid the spread of a severe illness. Photo: Shawn Raymundo
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EYE ON SJC
Greenies Offers Around-the-Clock Golf Practice BY BREEANA GREENBERG
Carson Tanner looked to create a low-pressure, hangout spot for friends to gather and play golf when he opened Greenies Golf Club in San Juan Capistrano. The new golf club located off Avenida Aeropuerto features two 17-foot, high-definition golf simulators for those interested in playing a quick simulated round or improving their form with analytical data and video replays of each swing. Tanner noted that he’s always wanted to start his own business and figured “this would be a really fun way to do one.” “They always tell you to do something you love, and I love hanging out with my friends and playing golf,” Tanner said. The existing indoor golf facilities in South Orange County mostly revolve around training and retail, Tanner said. Tanner hoped to fill the void by creating a spot for club members to “hang out and do what they want to do with their golf game; whether they want to play 18–you can play 18 holes in an hour–or you can get all the advanced analytics, and you can really dial in your game, or you can just hang out.” The space also features lounge seating and TVs, helping to make the club the hangout space that Tanner had envisioned. One member noted that he came in to play a round while watching a game, enjoying the space to himself. The benefit to playing indoor golf, Tanner said, is the speed in which you can play a round. “No. 1 is time constraints, because not a lot of people have five hours, maybe six hours to kill playing a round,” Tanner said. “You can play a full round in an hour here. Or you can play two rounds with a couple of friends in a few hours.” “Also, in here, if you just want to go to the driving range, we have premium balls,” Tanner continued. “Some of the driving ranges in town use kind of crummy balls, and you’re not going to get an accurate ball flight or accurate distances and you’re guessing a lot.” With the club’s premium golf balls, Tanner notes that the simulation is “99% accurate with yardages, ball flight, spin.” “You know you’re going to be using premium balls, so you can really dial in your distances, the shape of your shots, and we have hundreds of data analytics tiles to choose from,” Tanner said. “We have instant video replay on your impacts, and so I’ve got members who like to come in and play a round. I’ve got members who like to just look at the data, and that’s all they care about.”
Tanner added that simulation golf is a “great supplement to anyone who loves golfing,” as the techniques and form that you can hone in the club setting transfer over to the course. The golf simulator is great for beginner or intermediate players, Tanner said, but can really help an advanced golfer hone their skills . “If you’re a beginner or intermediate, the video replay is going to help you a ton, because sometimes you don’t know what went wrong with your swing, your contact,” Tanner said. “When you see exactly where you hit it, that’s a great learning tool.” “When you start becoming a lower-handicap golfer, then you want more details about the angle you’re coming in at your spin rate, your descent angle, your height, your ball speed, your club speed,” Tanner continued.“So for advanced players, analytics are going to matter more.” The simulator also takes away a lot of the pressure beginners might feel out on the course, Tanner said. “There is some pressure when you’re learning how to play golf,” Tanner said. “You go to the range a few times, and you feel like you’ve kind of figured it out, you’re ready to go play, and now you lose a ball. That’s three bucks. And you got a group behind you, waiting on you, and so you feel pressure financially, with time.” “In here, you won’t lose your ball, and no one’s behind you waiting for you to hurry up, either,” Tanner continued. Golfers can play a round on thousands of courses with the simulator, Tanner said. “You can play just about anywhere,” Tanner said. “If you have played there or if you want to play there, you can probably play here. And there’s also a driving range; there’s all sorts of practice games where it challenges you to use every club in your bag to improve your game.” Tanner celebrated the grand opening of Greenies Golf Club on Nov. 19 with a launch party featuring music, food and drinks and rounds of “closest to the pin” contests. “The reception has been awesome,” Tanner said. “The golf community is excited about it and super-supportive.” For those interested in giving the club a try, Greenies offers free demo sessions. Membership plans start at $100 a month. “It’s a great vibe in here,” Tanner said. “It’s fun to hang out. The hardware is topof-the-line, the software is top-of-the-line, so it’s fun. It’s a great learning tool, and I think it’s a cool new business that I can offer to the community.” The club is open to both members and the general public. Members receive credentials so that they can enjoy 24/7 access to the club. The general public can play at Greenies from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, as well as 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tanner added that he hopes players can
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
Greenies Golf Club owner Carson Tanner looks to foster a collaborative community of golf enthusiasts at his new club off Avenida Aeropuerto in San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Breeana Greenberg
A Greenies Golf Club member on Monday morning, Dec. 4, practices his swing at one of the San Juan Capistrano club’s 17-foot, high-definition golf simulators. Photo: Breeana Greenberg
supplement their love of the game at Greenies. “I hope that I can build a cool community here full of members and good people who have that in common, they love golf, they love community,” Tanner said. “It’s a space where you’re going to interact with other members.” “We’ve already made a lot of good con-
Page 6
CHP to Host Free Teen Driver Safety Class BY BREEANA GREENBERG
Starting on Dec. 18, the California Highway Patrol Capistrano Area office will host a “Start Smart” teen driver safety class aimed at making new drivers aware of the responsibilities that accompany a driver’s license. The free two-hour class is geared toward newly licensed teen drivers or soon-to-be licensed drivers aged 15-19.
nections; I’ve seen my members make good connections,” Tanner continued. “I plan on fostering an environment where there’s a lot of collaboration. We’re going to do tournaments, we’re going to do leagues and just have a cool club to hang out.” Greenies is located at 26181 Avenida Aeropuerto, San Juan Capistrano.
CHP encourages teens and their parents or guardians to attend and participate in the class that will discuss “collision avoidance techniques along with collision-causing elements such as excessive speed, DUI and distracted driving.” The program will also teach new drivers what to do when involved in a crash, the importance of safety precautions such as seat belt use, and more. The class will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Dec. 18 at the CHP Capistrano Area office located at 32951 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. Reserving a spot in the class can be done by calling 949.670.7030.
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As always our office follows strict CDC guidelines. The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
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SOAPBOX
GUEST OPINION | The Levin Letter by Rep. Mike Levin
Want to See Congress at Work? Look No Further Than San Clemente
O
two months.Once completed, ver the past several we will immediately see the decades, coastal erosion benefits, with new, 50-foothas been slowly wearing wide beach sand berms. away at California’s beaches, and With more sand on the San Clemente is no exception. beach, we’ll see greater This erosion has threatened recreational opportunities our beaches, impacted our for San Clemente residents. coastal bluffs and endangered That means more space the LOSSAN Corridor—the to take a walk or just take second-busiest rail corridor in in the sun. A wider beach MIKE LEVIN the country. also means more space for The need to replenish our tourists, and more tourists beaches with sand is undeniable. means more visitors to our Despite the clear need to local businesses. address the shrinking beaches, there was This project also benefits our local no recent movement from the federal environment. As we’ve lost more of our government to address the issue. That’s beaches to the ocean, we have seen an why, when I came to Congress in 2019, increase in landslides and erosion of our I made replenishing our coastline a top coastal bluffs. priority. In Orange County this year alone, Since then, I have built a relationship landslides have resulted in tens of with the United States Army Corps of millions of dollars’ worth of damage. By Engineers (USACE) to advocate for sand widening our beaches, we’re increasing replenishment projects in our district. the safety and stability of the bluffs and Today, after years of work, we are our local infrastructure like the LOSSAN beginning to see results. Corridor. Right now, on San Clemente’s beach, Put simply, this project is a win for the USACE and its contractor are staging our beaches, our local economy, and our the equipment that will pump up to surrounding environment. 250,000 cubic yards of sand to the north This sand replenishment project is and south of the pier. the result of years of effort, planning, Once the pumping begins, the sand and collaboration between my office, replenishment project will operate 24 USACE, local government partners, and hours a day, seven days a week, for about
Letters to The Editor RESPONSE TO ‘HOW TO GET YOUR DIVIDEND’ ROBERT SCHOLLAERT, San Clemente I’m highly skeptical that the increase in costs to families from a carbon tax will be offset by the resulting dividends. This tax affects all companies that contribute CO2 to the atmosphere, which means those additional costs will invariably be passed on to the customer with a bigger impact on lower-income families. It will also contribute to the gradual movement of our existing heavy industry to Third World countries that operate under much less onerous environmental rules. The U.S. has done a remarkable job reducing CO2 emissions in this country over the past 20 years with regard to renewable energy and the movement away from coal to gas-generated electricity. China, on the other hand, continues to build and start up coal-fired electrical generating plants on a weekly basis. Instead of taxing our manufacturing
base, we should be considering a “green tariff ” on everything that we purchase from China. That would help to equalize the unfair advantage that China has on continuing to pollute the environment at no cost to them. THREE STRIKES JEFFREY HERMAN, San Clemente There are basically just two categories of gun owners: law-abiding citizens who own a firearm for personal protection or sport shooting, and criminals. The gun-control advocates don’t distinguish between the two groups—they want everyone disarmed. The gun itself is not the problem—it’s just pieces of precision-made components. And, law-abiding citizens are also not the problem. The only problem is the criminal element within our society. Even if gun-confiscation was possible, the criminals would laugh and never give up their firearms. In fact, gun-related crimes would then escalate—criminals would feel emboldened and no longer fear that their victims might be armed. Hence, instead of gun control, we should be calling for criminal control,
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
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stakeholders. It has benefited from $9 million in federal funding that I secured. These are your tax dollars at work, and it exemplifies what is possible when all levels of government work together. I’m proud of all the work it’s taken to reach this point, and I’m grateful to the USACE, and our state and local partners, for helping deliver results for San Clemente. We are not done yet. In addition to San Clemente, there is another sand replenishment project underway in North County San Diego, and I look forward to seeing both projects fully completed. And while sand replenishment projects address some symptoms of climate change, we must continue working to address the root causes. Often these days, when I speak with my constituents, I hear about their frustrations with our leaders in Washington. If you were to turn on the news, you’d likely see several stories about partisan infighting and gridlock, and this can rightly lead to the question: What are my representatives doing for me? Since Day 1, my No. 1 priority has been to deliver results that help the residents in our district. With this project, you don’t need to ask what we are doing for you. Just go to the beach and see for yourself. U.S. Representative Mike Levin represents the 49th Congressional District, which includes the South Orange County cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. He was reelected for a second term in 2020 and resides in San Juan Capistrano with his wife and two children. CD
and here’s something that will solve the criminal problem once and for all: If you commit three violent crimes, then you receive the federal death penalty. Very few of us will ever commit even one violent crime—by the time someone has committed three, then he has forfeited his right to life. Receiving the death penalty will ensure he will never, ever commit another violent crime, and it will certainly make society safer. Any gun-control advocate who speaks out against this “Three Strikes, You Die” suggestion shows he’s not really interested in reducing crime; he only wants to disarm everyone, including law-abiding citizens. CORRECTION In the Nov. 10 edition of The Capistrano Dispatch, a story on page 8 reported on a high school robotics team visiting the San Juan Capistrano City Council for a presentation on Nov. 7. The robotics team, Team 5199 Robot Dolphins From Outer Space, is the Capistrano Unified School District’s varsity robotics team, comprising students from across the district.
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GETTING OUT
The List
bags and boxes. This will be an afternoon of appetizers, charcuterie, a coffee bar and networking, all for a great cause. The women of Compassion with Action identify a need in someone’s life and come together to do their best to serve them. It is their mission to serve women and children in crisis and to uplift, spread some joy and hope to their situations. Escrow Leaders, 31842 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. 949.373.7000. escrowleaders.com
Editor’s Pick
What’s going on in and around town this week
CHANUKAH AT THE OUTLETS 5-6 p.m. Celebrate Chanukah in front of the MetroLux Theatres with an event including a dancing LED 10-foot robot show, glow-in-the-dark sticks, as well as dreidels, latkes, and donuts. RSVP at jewishsc.com. The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.535.2323. outletsatsanclemente.com.
THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH
FRIDAY | DEC. 8 HISTORIC BELL TOLLING: DAY OF REMEMBRANCE 1 p.m. The historic bells at Mission San Juan Capistrano will toll at 1 p.m. in remembrance of the earthquake of 1812 and the 40 victims who perished as a result of the Great Stone Church’s collapse during worship services. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com. BOOK SIGNING AT RE/MAX 5-8 p.m. Dr. Atousa Mahdavi, a holistic health expert will be speaking about her book, Wholly You, at the RE/MAX Office on Del Prado. The event will feature refreshments and a book signing. To RSVP for the event, send an email to ellysa@ellysamarino.com. RE/MAX Office, 24582 Del Prado, Suite G, Dana Point. 714.580.2029.
SATURDAY | DEC. 9 DANA POINT NATURE INTERPRETIVE CENTER DOCENT WALK—WHALE WALK & TALK 9-11 a.m. Visit the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center on the second Saturday of every month during the Gray Whale Migration and learn more about the offshore visitors that can frequently be seen from the Dana Point Headlands. All walks start from the Nature Interpretive Center and are approximately 1½-2 hours long. Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. 949.248.3527. dpnaturalresources@danapoint.org. SALTY CREW SAMPLE SALE 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Shop men’s, women’s and children’s Salty Crew clothing samples in the Brophy Art Gallery’s parking lot. Enjoy hot dogs and refreshments while supplies last. Brophy Art Gallery and Design Studio, 139 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. eventbrite.com. TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Join Mission San Juan Capistrano every second Saturday of the month for Teacher Appreciation Day. Teachers get in free with valid teacher ID. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801
WEDNESDAY | DEC. 13
Photo: Courtesy of Matt Larmand
THURSDAY | DEC. 14 : MENORAH LIGHTING & COMEDY SHOW 6:30 p.m. Chabad of Dana Point invites community members to enjoy an evening with stand-up comedian Daniel Lobell. The event will feature a Hanukkah menorah lighting followed by the comedy show. Wine, sushi and classic Hanukkah latkes will be served. Admission is $54. Residence Inn by Marriott, 33711 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.930.3711. info@jewishdanapoint.com.
Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com. SANTA PAWS 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring your favorite furry friend to the beautiful Dana Point Harbor on Saturday Dec. 9, and Sunday, Dec. 10, and have his or her picture taken with Santa. The cost is $15 for a picture, and you’ll receive the photo immediately. Additional photos can be purchased for $10. Start a family tradition with these keepsake photos of your beloved pets. All proceeds benefit the homeless animals at the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter. Photos will be taken in the Clock Courtyard directly in front of El Torito Restaurant. Please park in the main parking lot. Well-behaved dogs/pets welcome. All dogs should be on leashes. Clock Courtyard. 34521 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. petprojectfoundation.org/santa-paws-dpharbor/.
SUNDAY | DEC. 10 PICTURES WITH SANTA PAWS 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Ho Ho Ho Santa Paws is coming to the Orange County Dog Barber. Join OC Dog Barber for drinks and snacks. Photos with Santa are $10, and a portion of the proceeds will go to local shelters. All dogs and kids are welcome, but must be leashed. OC Dog Barber, 33591 Camino Capistrano, Suite A, San Juan Capistrano. 949.201.7241. facebook.com/thedogbarber. HOLIDAY VENDOR MARKET AT LOST WINDS BREWING
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
Noon-4 p.m. Finish your Christmas shopping at Lost Winds Brewing, with a market featuring ceramics, flannels, jewelry and more. Enjoy a glass of beer and a burger from Smalls Smash Burgers while you browse all the vendors. Lost Winds Brewing Company, 924 Calle Negocio, Suite C, San Clemente. 949.361.5922. lostwindsbrewing.com. SOUTH COAST SINGERS PRESENTS ‘ALL IS BRIGHT’ 4 p.m. South Coast Singers’ 50-plus member choir, accompanied by Musical Director Ray Medina and pianist Brian O’Neill, will perform holiday melodies including “Winter Wonderland” and “We Need a Little Christmas,” as well as multicultural selections such as “Behold The Star,” “His Light In Us,” “Bashana Haba’ah,” and many more. Tickets are free for kids under 10 and $20 for general admission. Geneva Presbyterian Church, 24301 El Toro Road, Laguna Woods. 949.613.7840. southcoastsingers.org.
TUESDAY| DEC. 12 SJC COOKIE EXCHANGE & CHARITY EVENT 4-6 p.m. Join Escrow Leaders as it spends the Christmas season giving back to its communities. The San Juan Capistrano Cookie Exchange and Charity Event will include a toy drive to benefit Compassion with Action. To participate, bring three dozen cookies, with any allergens listed, to share. Escrow Leaders will provide to-go
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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.
SATURDAY | DEC. 16 SANTA RUN FOR CHARITY 2 p.m. Join Lily’s Lighthouse and get ready to jingle all the way along the Beach Trail to Landers Liquor Bar. Attendees are encouraged to run in their Santa suit or Christmas attire. The party will continue at Landers, featuring a barbecue and drinks, a silent auction, live music and more. Runners will receive a custom Santa hat, a barbecue dinner and complimentary drink ticket. Tickets for the run and after-party are $50. Proceeds from the event will support the nonprofit Lily’s Lighthouse. Runners will gather at 1:30 p.m. at Parque Del Mar before embarking on the run at 2 p.m. Parque Del Mar, 622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. lilyslighthouse.betterworld.org.
SUNDAY | DEC. 17 SANTA PADDLE 9 a.m. Join the paddleboarding community out on the water in the Dana Point Harbor for a festive paddle. Participants are invited to come dressed in the festive holiday spirit with reds and white, Santa Hats, a reindeer, snowman, or elf. Participants can bring their own equipment or rent equipment at Westwind Sailing at a 20% discount, with Westwind Sailing donating $5 for every piece of equipment rented. Paddlers will begin at Baby Beach, where they’ll take a group photo on the water before paddling around the island. Paddlers are encouraged to wear or have a life vest with them at all times. Baby Beach, 34451 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point. thecapistranodispatch.com
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UNIQUE GIFTS & HOLIDAY MAGIC
THIS SEASON, ENJOY THE MAGIC OF A TRAIN RIDE! Gather with family and friends for a delightful, affordable journey without driving. Just for you, we’ve put together convenient day trip suggestions from LA to Oceanside with fun, adventure and great food for all. Enjoy, and happy holidays!
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Unique Gifts by 168 Artists Holiday Entertainment • Free Art Classes
Photos with Santa • And More! November 17- December 17 Five 3-Day Weekends, 10am to 7pm
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Holidays EL CAMPEON
A TASTE OF THE
FRIDAY, DEC. 8 48TH ANNUAL BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS 6:30 p.m. Join Dana Point Harbor for its 48th annual Boat Parade of Lights taking place Friday, Dec. 8, Saturday, Dec. 9, and Sunday, Dec. 10. This year’s parade theme is “Candyland,” with boaters vying for prizes from best overall theme, most original and more. Locals and visitors alike can look forward to exciting lighting installations along with holiday-themed photo opportunities, visits with Santa and more. To experience the Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights: Candy Land on board one of the harbor’s 90-minute holiday cruises, visit danawharf.com/cruises. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. danapointharbor. com/event/dana-point-harbor-48thannual-boat-parade/.
SATURDAY, DEC. 9 SANTA PAWS 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring your favorite furry friend to the beautiful Dana Point Harbor on Saturday, Dec. 9, and Sunday, Dec. 10, and have his or her picture taken with Santa. The cost is $15 for a picture, and you’ll receive the photo immediately. Additional photos can be purchased for $10. Start a family tradition with these keepsake photos of your beloved pets. All proceeds benefit the homeless animals at the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter. Photos will be taken in the Clock Courtyard directly in front of El Torito Restaurant. Please park in the main parking lot. Well-behaved dogs/pets welcome. All dogs should be on leashes. Clock Courtyard. 34521 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. petprojectfoundation.org/ santa-paws-dpharbor/
SUNSETS WITH SANTA 3-5 p.m. Enjoy free visits with Santa on the San Clemente Municipal Pier with a beautiful sunset as your backdrop on Dec. 9, 16 and 17. Bring your own camera. For more information, contact the City of San Clemente’s Recreation Division at 949.361.8264. san-clemente.org.
FRIDAY, DEC. 15 SC SOCIAL: POLAR EXPRESS TROLLEY ADVENTURE 5-8 p.m. All aboard the Polar Express!
Get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season like never before at the City of San Clemente’s epic SC Social Trolley Adventure! Celebrate this holiday season with pizza, hot chocolate, games and a gingerbread decorating contest! But that’s not all! The highlight of the night will be a thrilling trolley ride through the city to see all of the breathtaking Christmas lights and do activities along the way. (Working on getting address) san-clemente.org.
SATURDAY, DEC. 16 HOLIDAYS WITH THE HOMIES 1-8 p.m. It’s Homies on the Hill: Holiday Edition. The Homies on the Hill have concocted this ultimate holiday brewery crawl. Step into the magic of this traditional event, now sprinkled with some holiday cheer at Delahunt Brewery, Lost Winds Brewing and Artifex Brewing Company in San Clemente. Partygoers can cruise on the free shuttle making brewery hopping a breeze, score $2 off beers all day by punching your punchard at each brewery and groove to live music at all locations. You can also flaunt your festive worst in the ugly sweater contest with three grand prizes. Each brewery will have one winner receive a complimentary brew crawl for four people. There will be also be a holiday vendor show to knock your holiday shopping off the list, delectable bites from top food vendors. Spread joy through the event’s toy drive in partnership with Station 59 and be entered in a raffle. You can also m,eet “Santa,” who will be making an appearance at each location to see if you’re on the naughty or nice list. This holiday extravaganza put in by your favorite breweries is a can’t-miss celebration. Delahunt, 1011 Calle Recodo. 949.503.2763. delahuntbrewing.com. Lost Winds, 924 Calle Negocio, #C. lostwindsbrewing.com. 949.361.5922. Artifex, 919 Calle Amanecer, Suite A. artifex.beer. 949.429.7805.
31921 CAMINO CAPISTRANO, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA 92675 I (949) 489-4078 OR (949) 240-3141 WWW.ELCAMPEONINC.COM
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MONDAY, DEC. 18, CANDY CANE LANES HOLIDAY HOME DECORATING CONTEST The Dana Point Youth Board’s annual home decorating contest will take place between Monday, Dec. 18, and Thursday, Dec. 21. Youth board
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023 The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 14, 2023
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paign features the town’s unique local businesses and encourages shoppers to think local all holiday season long. The holiday passport program kicked off Nov. 15 and continues through Jan. 4. Pick up and then take your passport with you while you shop in the neighborhood. When you make a purchase at participating businesses, you’ll receive a special stamp equal to the amount of your purchase. Collect enough stamps to fill the passport and submit your passport to the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce for a chance to win weekly prizes and a grand prize package. There’s no limit to the number of passports you can submit. The earlier you submit, the more chances you have to win. For more information, contact the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce at holiday@danapointchamber.com or 949.496.1555. danapointchamber.com/holiday.
members will visit the homes entered in the contest and judge them for best overall, most creative and best use of theme. Winners will receive a sign to display on their yard and gift cards to local Dana Point businesses. Residents interested in entering their home to be featured on the Candy Cane Lanes map published on the city’s website and social media can email recreation@ danapoint.org or call 949.248.3536. The deadline to enter the contest is Friday, Dec. 15. Winners will be notified after Jan. 8.
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GETTING OUT
ON STAGE AT THE COACH HOUSE:
Creating Memories—Music Is Taking Terri Nunn’s Breath Away BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
F
or Terri Nunn of Berlin, playing Cruel World in Pasadena for the second time was a dream come true. Sharing the stage with bands including Echo & the Bunnymen, Siouxsie, Iggy Pop and Billy Idol, the May 2023 festival near the Rose Bowl brought back memories. “It was out of nowhere and fantastic,” she said. “I felt the same way the year before. The combination of bands for me is my dream come true. I love goth music. There were a lot of goth bands and, of course, new wave bands from the ’80s. It was a once-ina-lifetime event.” She also made new memories with her 18-year-old daughter, Natalie. “My daughter came with me and wanted to meet Billy Idol,” she said. “I have some history with Billy Idol. There was a moment when I was 18 and, at the premiere of my one and only movie that I ever made, he sat down next to me. He looks all Billy Idol-ish. He says, ‘I’m in a band called Generation X.’ I said, ‘Wow, that would be so cool to make music all the time.’ His response? ‘Well, Terri, maybe you want to try that, because that movie is (crap).’” Nunn admits she laughed and thought the exchange was “hilarious.” “It wasn’t a great movie,” she adds, still laughing about the film Katie: Portrait of a Centerfold. “After the (Cruel World) show, I brought my daughter over, and we connected. I said, ‘My daughter would love to get a picture
AT THE MOVIES:
‘May December’ BY MEGAN BIANCO
I
n Todd Haynes’ new film out on Netflix, May December, we have a satire clearly inspired by the real 1997 case of 35-yearold schoolteacher Mary Kay Letourneau, who was exposed and arrested for taking advantage of her 13-year-old student Vili Fualaau. What shocked the world was not only the age difference, but the fact that the pair stayed together to get married and raise a family. It’s tricky when someone who is clearly a victim from a public perspective doesn’t want to be labeled a victim. The film also works as a commentary on how self-important Hollywood comes across when it produces biopics and historical dramas about serious incidents. With May December, Natalie Portman plays Elizabeth Berry, a TV actress traveling to Savannah, Georgia to do research for a character in an indie drama based on a real scandal. The subjects are local spouses, 59-year-old
with you.’ She did, and she started to cry. She thanked him for taking a picture with her. I said to him, ‘Dude, she’s 18. You still got it.’” Berlin will return to the stage at The Coach House at 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 15. “The Coach House is in Berlin’s birthplace, Orange County,” Nunn said. “Those fans are like nowhere else; so supportive, it feels like coming home. I also love supporting Gary, owner of The Coach House, because he supported us when we needed it. It’s a great place to hear music.” The show is on the heels of spending the summer with Boy George & Culture Club and Howard Jones. “Honestly, it was spectacular,” Nunn said. “Everyone in ours and Culture Club’s camps got along and helped each other out. It’s a traveling circus, really. That kind of camaraderie doesn’t always happen. The venues were huge and beautiful—some we hadn’t played before. During the Australian leg, I tore my hamstring in two places working out in my hotel room. I wasn’t about to go home, though. The audiences were very kind about it and enthusiastic.” The Berlin shows feature fellow original members bassist John Crawford and keyboard player David Diamond. Last year, Berlin celebrated 45 years in music, scoring hits like “Take My Breath Away,”“The Metro” and “No More Words.” “It’s still exciting for me that the original three of us who started the band are in the band again,” she said.“When I picked up the mantle again in the late ’90s, John wasn’t in
Gracie (Julianne Moore) and 36-year-old Joe Yoo (Charles Melton), with Elizabeth cast as the former. Though the couple is apprehensive at first, they invite the star over for an extended visit while their twins, Mary (Elizabeth Yu) and Charlie (Gabriel Chung), are graduating from high school. For the next week, Elizabeth gets her share of details and secrets that shock and fascinate her. Rather than frame the movie as a typical drama, Haynes and screenwriter Samy Burch choose the dark comedy route, most evident with Marcelo Zarvos’ score. The constant piano channels the usual cues and transitions associated with an era when exploitative gossip/drama was normal in tabloids and daytime TV. Because the subject of May December is sensitive, none of the campy moments or comic relief are directed at Melton’s character, but rather at how ridiculous all the other, much older adults are in his life. Portman’s Elizabeth is naturally disturbed by the backstory of the much older woman/ younger man relationship she’s witnessing, but also unashamedly using it more for her performance than any actual justice. The scenes in which she interviews Gra-
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
music anymore. He had a different life.” Instead, Crawford, who was married with three children at the time, was taking science programs into schools. Nunn didn’t expect to ever perform with him again. “Then, Richard Blade produced Bands Reunited,” she said about the legendary DJ. “It was the first time I had seen John in seven years. We reconnected, and when he was getting a divorce, he called me because I had been through divorce. It was hard, a whole family thing. He rejoined the band, and David Diamond was playing with us. Now they’re both in the band. “It’s really a reunion, in a way, for me. It’s like it’s full circle. How much longer we’re going to do this, I’m not sure, but we’re ending it together, too.” There doesn’t seem to be an end in sight, however. Berlin picked up steam once again with the release of Top Gun: Maverick. It recalled “Take My Breath Away,” which played a pivotal role in the original film. Before Top Gun: Maverick, Berlin had 3 million listeners on Spotify. “It jumped to over 6 million in a month,” she said with a laugh. “They did put the music of my song in there over the last scene, when they’re rah-rahing that they won. It was really beautiful. It segued into Lady Gaga’s song at the very end.” She’s touched that she is cited as an influence by the likes of Lady Gaga, Shirley Manson, Gwen Stefani, Katy Perry and Miley Cyrus. “I’m appreciative, my God,” she said. “I know how much I appreciated the women
who came before me. By what they did, it gave me a future. It made me see what was possible. “You could have a life like that. You could make music and be a positive force in the world.” She counts among her idols Ann Wilson, Stevie Nicks and Carly Simon. “Ann Wilson and I did a podcast, a show where she and I were the panel,” she said. “It was a dream come true for me, to be there with her. I was 15 and Dreamboat Annie came out—oh, my God. That was life-changing for me. Carly Simon, what a strong woman she is. She was a songwriter, and she was sexy—everything I wanted to be. We need those examples out there.” Nunn is flattered that she gets to share her love of music with Natalie, whom she says isn’t too fond of Berlin. “I took her to see Billie Eilish,” she said. “When I was a kid, we didn’t do that with our parents. Nowadays, I like a lot of the bands she’s listening to and a lot of the bands that I’m playing with. “The music these days isn’t that different. Electronic music is here to stay.” CD
SHOW DETAILS:
WHAT: Berlin WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15 WHERE: The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, Suite C, San Juan Capistrano COST: Tickets start at $33 INFO: thecoachhouse.com
Photo: Courtesy of Netflix
cie, Joe, their family and their friends look like an investigative journalist crafting an exposé, when it’s actually just inspiration for a flashy movie role. Moore begins May December as the ordinary, everyday mom/housewife to the viewer before unraveling into a truly pathetic and despicable person by the end. The most sympathetic, naturally, is Melton as Joe, who tragically realizes during Elizabeth’s visit that he doesn’t really have anyone on
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his side besides his kids. He is now forced to come to terms that his marriage and adult life decisions weren’t entirely consensual. May December treads the line of commentary and irony, so it doesn’t necessarily offer a solution for Joe or this kind of incident in general. Life goes on, as it usually does in real life. If you’re comfortable with the subversive tone and dark humor of the acting and Haynes’ direction, May December could be worth a watch for you. CD thecapistranodispatch.com
SJC LIVING
GUEST OPINION | On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake
A Senior Woman Asks: ‘What Dating Sites Do You Recommend?’
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committed mate, I will comment ean “The Bean” of Laguna Niguel emailed, “Can you on that as well: “Jean, in early March this year, recommend a good dating I was sitting at home on anothapp for seniors (I’m 70 now)? er lonely Saturday night. It had “I have tried ourtime.com, been only four months since my but I didn’t find it user-friendly, and eHarmony never gave me a partner Greta’s passing, after 25 match after six months. ON LIFE AND LOVE years of being a couple. I knew AFTER 50 BY “Good luck with your pursuit I could never replace Greta, but TOM BLAKE of a compatible companion, hoped for a woman friend with whom I could share a new beginwhich can make life so much more wonderful!” ning. “And even though I know a lot of I’ve known Jean “The Bean” for a year. She’s a very special person—a down- people in South Orange County (havto-earth, ethical, and caring woman. I ing owned a deli in Dana Point for 26 recently saw her on Nov. 7 at a speech years, and having been a columnist for I made at the Dana West Yacht Club in 29 years), I felt I wasn’t being assertive enough in seeking a potential mate. Dana Point. If any readers would like to reach out “I decided to try online dating, to cast to Jean “The Bean,” email me, and I will my net wider, to reach out to more peoforward your email to her. ple. I tried three sites. The first two were Here was my reply to Jean regarding match.com and POF (Plenty of Fish). I online dating websites for seniors. And dumped POF immediately, feeling that I since Jean mentioned my quest to find a wasn’t reaching the right type of person
for which I was looking. “However, match.com seemed pretty good. I had a few dates there. And a friend suggested I add Zoosk to the mix of sites I was using. I had never heard of Zoosk, but I gave that site a try. “On the sites, I limited my search radius to 30 miles or so, not wanting to travel to Los Angeles or San Diego to find somebody. “The best of the three sites I joined was Zoosk. It had more available women within my geographical area. I met several nice women on Zoosk, including Debbie from Mission Viejo, who lives 10 miles from my home. Our first date was May 19. “When our dating site subscriptions expired, we did not renew them. “One thing that brought us closer together was COVID-19. Debbie went to Las Vegas to house-sit and puppy-sit for a friend. While there, she visited a few casinos. Debbie caught COVID and was housebound for more than two weeks. I
volunteered and insisted that I help her with grocery shopping and prescription pick-up. “I would leave those items on her front porch bench. She would come outside. We were both masked. And we chatted for a couple of minutes from 8 feet apart. “That experience made us both realize how wonderful and comforting having a mate who cares about us is. So, we’ll see what happens from here. “So, Jean ‘The Bean,’ that’s the update. Yes, I met someone online, on Zoosk. “I will keep my eyes and ears open for you, as I feel you are a special person. It’s not easy. The ratio of single women to single men in your age range is near 5-to-1. Tough odds. I hope my information helps you.” Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. CD
GUEST OPINION |Eat My Words by Cheryl Pruett
Beyond Gift Cards—Turn to Local Restaurants as a Holiday Gift Source
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ooking for a slightly differmore. Among items in addition ent holiday gift or stockto Flights’ T-shirts and ball caps ing-stuffer idea? is a browse-worthy store with Local restaurants may be iron skillets, crow-emblazoned the answer to your gift giving towels and a variety of drink or last-minute presents. Many glasses (wine, whiskey, port, restaurants offer more than highball, etc.). EAT MY WORDS BY gift cards and meals. The provisions include cockCHERYL PRUETT While a gift card provides tail mixers, stuffed olives, spea welcome experience to cialty seasoned peanuts, crafted dine out, keep in mind the gift card is marshmallows, and so much more. Gifts something you pair with other restau- or stocking stuffers abound. rant-branded merchandise or retail surTeahouse on Los Rios and TEA-que prises. From T-shirts and hat merchandise Boutique from a favorite restaurant, the gift giving 31731 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano. can include everything from provisions 949.443.3914. teahouseonlosrios.com for home use or even a membership exIt’s more than tea time. Next door to the Teahouse is the gift shop filled with perience with a wine and cheese twist. Here are ideas for holiday shopping at gift ideas from loose leaf tea (of course) places you normally grab a meal, coffee to tea pots, tea cups, home décor (pillows, or tea. etc.), aprons, stuffed animals and dolls, hats and garden items. For a holiday gift experience, the Door Six 370 Camino de Estrella, San Clemente. Teahouse on Los Rios offers Holiday High Tea ($89 per) through Jan. 7 and for 949.503.1719. shopdoor6.com This is Flights and Irons’ retail market kids 12 and younger a Nutcracker Tea with an emphasis on mixology and much ($45 per) through Jan. 7. The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
Alohana Acai Bowls & Coffee 360 Camino de Estrella, San Clemente/Capistrano Beach. 949.388.4015. alohanaacaioc.com Looking for beachy items, useful products and local art? More than smoothies, acai bowls and coffee are packed into the local gathering place. Yes, there are gift cards available and Alohana T-shirts and insulated mugs, etc. However, examples of items for gift giving include charcuterie boards, Mexican woven beach blankets (73 inches by 48 inches), Mexican woven bags, framed posters of famous beaches, as well as small, handcrafted surfboard wall clocks, Thread brand key chains, wallets and lanyards, environment-conscious bracelets, kitchen towels by Geometry and also Surf Ghetto Resin Art. Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.388.8900. j-fat.com Bring Jimmy’s home in the form of its personal label Jimmy’s Famous Chipotle Ketchup (16 ounces for $8).
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Perfect for a stocking-stuffer or paired with a Jimmy’s gift card. Maison Café + Market’s “little sister,” Avec Moi 24501 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point. 949.218.8431. avecmoidanapoint.com Say cheese (and wine)! Located inside Maison Café, the wine and cheese shop offers a special experience through membership in Club de Vin. The monthly membership ($65 a month) includes two bottles of wine monthly for pickup, a complimentary cheese plate each month, 10% off all visits to Avec Moi (not available during happy hour), and a free glass of wine when you pick up your monthly wines. Other perks include invites to a quarterly soiree and a members’ VIP event. More than a stocking-stuffer gift! 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
BEST PRACTICES FOR MIGRATING TO THE CLOUD The promise of cloud technology is to simplify IT, but migrating to a cloud environment can seem overwhelming, leave you feeling stuck, or even wishing you could go back and start over. Change is hard and without proper support, migrating can feel like more trouble than it’s worth. Cox Business has helped thousands of companies migrate to the cloud with a custom plan focused on meeting their individual needs, and then sustain the benefits of managed cloud IT. Along the way, Cox Business has defined a series of processes and checkpoints that can mean the difference between a smooth ride and one full of potholes.
Laying the Foundation
Obstacles to an efficient migration can frustrate users and cause delays — but Cox has three key steps to laying the foundation for future success: 1. Discovery – The cloud technical teams uncover your core business objectives and what you hope to achieve. This may sound basic, but getting crystal clear on your goals and understanding the different ways to get where you want to go will determine the ease of your migration. Only once you’ve identified your needs can you choose the best cloud-based solution for your organization. 2. Technical Review – Our engineers will validate your cloud design to ensure the proposed solution can be implemented properly and will be successful in meeting your expectations. 3. Financial Analysis – Once the proposed solution is verified in a technical review, you will want to conduct an analysis of pricing for accuracy and adjustments so there are no surprises. Combined, these three steps ensure your upcoming cloud implementation is a well-organized project with a predictable timeline and outcome.
White-Glove Implementation
Once the design is finalized, Cox Business takes the same care in deploying your cloud solution as we do with its design. This starts with an internal kickoff call, so our engineering and project management teams know the plan inside and out. Then we meet with your team to discuss timelines, identify where we need your help, and schedule check-ins so you’re informed every step of the way. When the implementation is done, we’re not. We take the extra step of testing for quality assurance.
Ongoing “In-Life” Support
After a successful onboarding, you have ongoing support from an experienced team comprised of a Client Experience Manager, a Project Manager, and a Rapid Response Support Team. Together, they offer ongoing assessments, help align resources to your goals, and conduct Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) to assess your requirements and satisfaction.
Customer Onboarding Team
After the initial quality assurance is complete, we spend an additional 30 days ensuring your new cloud environment is meeting your expectations. Our dedicated Customer Onboarding Team proactively monitors, tests, and fine-tunes your services to catch any issues, and they’re on call to answer your questions. Our goal is to make sure you’re comfortable with your new cloud solutions.
At Cox Business, success starts by setting the tone on day one with clarity and a singular focus on simplifying the management of cloud technology vital for running day-to-day operations, so customers can drive growth for their business. Not only do our customers not feel stuck, but they feel understood and supported by our partnership. Cloud customer RMM Architects offers a case in point: "What I've been impressed with about the Cox Business team is their desire to understand what makes our business unique, the challenges and the opportunities," said Aaron Sturniolo, Director of IT, RRMM Architects. "Nine years of working together, and they continue to bring to us solutions today to help advance our business."
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
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SJC LIVING
GUEST OPINION | Moments in Time by Jan Siegel
Our Lady of Guadalupe
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hile it seems as if the world has asked him to build a shrine on this spot. turned upside down, we need When Juan Diego told his archbishop to appreciate how fortunate we what he had witnessed, the archbishop dismissed Diego’s vision. are to live in San Juan Capistrano. Diego returned to the spot and Historically, our community told Our Lady, a virgin, the apshows how people of many persuasions can live together and prehension the archbishop had. support each other. As we get She then told Diego to pick some ready to celebrate the holiday flowers and take them to the season, let us remember the old archbishop. It was winter and no Mexican heritage that is viable flowers were in bloom, but roses today. MOMENTS IN TIME BY suddenly appeared. JAN SIEGEL For Mexicans, the season beDiego gathered the flowers in his cloak. When Diego went back gins on Dec. 12. On Oct. 12, 1945, to the archbishop, he recognized Pope Pius XII decreed Our Lady of Guadalupe to be “Patroness of all the the flowers as Castilian roses, which do not grow in Mexico. As a result, he built Americans. Her feast day is Dec. 12.” According to the Vatican News, “Our the Catedral Metropolitana in Mexico Lady of Guadalupe” first introduced her- City, which still stands today. The cloak that Diego was wearing is self as the Mother of God and the mother of all humanity when she appeared on called a tilma, and after he dropped the flowers at the feet of the archbishop, the the hill of Tepeyac in Mexico in 1531. An Indigenous peasant, Juan Diego saw image of the Mother of God was imprintthe glowing figure on the hill, and she ed on the cloak. The tilma that Diego was
ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK
Salem
wearing is preserved since that time and “is the most sacred object in all of Mexico.” The story has been handed down from a manuscript written in Nahuatl, the Native language of the Aztecs, by the scholar Antonio Valeriano sometime after 1556. In 1990, Pope Saint John Paul II visited Mexico and beatified Juan Diego. In 2000, he was declared a saint. The symbolism of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s dress is obvious to more than eight million native Mexicans. “She is brighter than the sun, more powerful than any Aztec god, but she is not a god herself, and she prays to the one greater than herself.” When the retablo was built in Spain for the Basilica in San Juan Capistrano, the artist who painted Our Lady of Guadalupe heard the story for the first time, and he took it upon himself to add roses on Our Lady’s gown. It really does complete the image. You can spend a “Moment in Time” this holiday season and visit the Basilica in San Juan Capistrano and appreciate the
retablo and the Lady of Guadalupe altar in the church. This is the season of miracles. A miracle is an event that happens at a significant moment in time. Whether the moment is the parting of the Red Sea, the oil that lasted eight days instead of one, the birth of Jesus, the Cathedral in Mexico City, the meeting of your soul mate, the birth of your children, it is a time to remember all the wonders of life. To one and all, a very happy holiday season and healthy New Year. Jan Siegel was a 33-year resident of San Juan Capistrano and now resides in the neighboring town of Rancho Mission Viejo. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 13 years, has been a volunteer guide for the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library’s architectural walking tour for 26 years and is currently the museum curator for the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. She was named Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD
THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH
Salem is a 1½-year-old gentle soul who wants nothing more than a quiet spot to rest his head. Mild-mannered and oh, so sweet, Salem would likely be an ideal lap cat. Though he wouldn’t mind spending most of his day snoozing, Salem also has a fun and playful side and loves to chase his toys. He would thrive in a quiet home where he can be the center of attention. If you are interested in adopting Salem, 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
Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter
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
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
Photo: Courtesy of Los Angeles Public Libraries
FROM THE ARCHIVES This picture, circa 1900, shows a seated priest with women and children under the arches at Mission San Juan Capistrano. The priest and congregants are unidentified.
Every week, the San Clemente Times will showcase a historical photo from around the city. If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, send the photo, your name for credit as well as the date and location of the photo to sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com.
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Medicare options are complicated. Understanding them shouldn’t be. Medicare Part B Costs Increase in 2024 out for that to avoid any surprises in the new year.
The majority of Medicare beneficiaries don’t’ pay a premium each month for Part A, but they do for Part B. Their Part B premium will be automatically deducted from their social security check and if they aren’t taking social security yet then they get a bill from the Medicare (aka the government). The standard premium for Medicare Part B (outpatient and doctor services) in 2023 was $164.90. In 2024 it will increase to $174.70. So, the reprieve you had last year with the Part B premium decrease has gone away, and once again there is an increase in your Medicare Part B premium.
There are 5 higher income brackets that cause a person to pay more for their Medicare Part B and an added assessment to their Part D (drug) coverage. In 2024 IRMAA will be assessed when an individual’s MAGI is above $103,000 and a married couple’s MAGI is above $206,000. I do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information I provide is limited to those plans I do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
The Medicare Part B deductible also increased; from $226 in 2023 to $240 in 2024. If your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is above a certain amount, you will pay an Income Related Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). Medicare uses the modified adjusted gross income reported on your IRS tax return from 2 years ago. The IRS provides this information to Social Security. Notices for your IRMAA amounts have begun to arrive in the mail for 2024, so keep an eye The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
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SJC SPORTS
2023 SAN JUAN WINTER SPORTS SHOWCASE BY ZACH CAVANAGH
“I don’t know how to explain it, but he got tougher,” Wilkinson said of Fowler. “He’s already as tough as they get, and hile the winter sports season he got tougher, which I didn’t know was hosts the fewest number of possible. I’ve said it for so long. He’s teams on the CIF-SS calendar, a Division 1 basketball player, and he there are no shortage of championship consistently goes out and beats Division contenders among San Juan 1 players.” Capistrano’s high school teams. The ball movement of the Lions has JSerra boasts most of the CIF-SS been spectacular through the early ranked teams in the city, with high exgoing, as JSerra constantly swings the pectations for the boys basketball, boys ball quickly around the perimeter to soccer and girls water polo teams. The find the open shot. Wilkinson said the Lions’ boys soccer and girls water polo teams earned CIF-SS championships last style of play is fun to watch with as many scoring options as the Lions have. season. In addition to Rancik and Fowler, JSerra Also looking to repeat as CIF-SS chamhas gotten contributions from senior Dipion is the St. Margaret’s girls basketball ego Martinez and senior Drew Bowman, team, which won its first section title along with rebounding presence from last season. It’s not all about the private schools, 6-foot-5 freshman Godschoice Eboigbodin. as San Juan Hills boasts a ranked boys However, it’s that rebounding presbasketball team looking to regain championship form. And while the Stallions ence that Wilkinson thinks the Lions girls soccer team just missed out on a need more of if they’re to compete for league championship last season, San a Trinity League or in CIF-SS Division Juan Hills is ready to enter the title fight 1 or Open Division. JSerra will get help once again. on the glass after the transfer sit-out While championship opportunities period with some 6-foot-9 and 6-foot-6 abound, let’s check out some of the winadditions. ter sports teams at San Juan Capistrano JSerra opens the Trinity League at home against CIF-SS Division 1 No. 2 high schools: St. John Bosco on Jan. 3 and travels to Division 1 No. 4 Mater Dei on Jan. 5. JSerra Boys Basketball The most singularly talented San Juan Capistrano winter sports team San Juan Hills Boys Basketball might just be the JSerra boys basketball It’s difficult to follow up a senior-led team. CIF-SS championship, and San Juan The Lions are 9-0, ranked No. 3 in Hills boys basketball found that out last CIF-SS Division 1 and have the numbers season. With a young roster, the Staland players to back that up. JSerra is lions were still able to make the CIF-SS averaging 76.8 points per game and playoffs, but San Juan Hills struggled allowing 54 points per game. with consistency due to inexperience. The standouts for JSerra are a pair of San Juan Hills coach Jason Efstathiou seniors in Sebastian Rancik and Aidan said his team has been a bit “Jekyll Fowler. and Hyde” again this season with a 6-5 Rancik is a 6-foot-10 Colorado comrecord and no more than two wins in a mit who can do it all at all areas of the row, but the Stallions keep gaining expecourt. JSerra coach Keith Wilkinson said rience with each passing game. that Rancik fancies himself as a “point The returning leader for San Juan forward” who can pass and shoot on the Hills is Mason Hodges, and the junior, outside just as well as he can get to the who led the Stallions in scoring last rim and rebound on the inside. Rancik season, is just that for the Stallions: is averaging 16.3 points per game. their leader. Fowler is the returning Trinity League “Mason has been our guy. We go player of the year, and despite that through him. We run a lot through him,” distinction and leading the Lions in Efstathiou said. “He’s our guy not just scoring with 20.5 points per game, the because of his play, but also because 5-foot-10 guard hasn’t garnered the of his leadership. To see the difference same next-level attention as Rancik. in his maturity from his sophomore to
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The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
The JSerra boys basketball team has championship-level talent, but the No. 3 Lions are in for a tough fight in the CIFSS Division 1 or Open Division playoffs. Photo: Zach Cavanagh.
San Juan Hills boys basketball has been up and down to open the season, but strong leadership could get the Stallions back into league title form. Photo: Zach Cavanagh
junior year, the way he’s grown up and leading guys. I’m so proud of him. The team is following him.” Hodges is averaging a double-double this season with 20 points per game and 10.3 rebounds per game. Another returning top scorer is senior Nathan Brosch, who averaged over 11 points per game last season. Brosch set a new program single-game record with 38 points on Nov. 18. San Juan Hills, ranked No. 14 in CIF-SS Division 2AA, opens South Coast League play at home against San Clemente on
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Jan. 10.
JSerra Girls Basketball
The court is a hot place to be at JSerra Catholic High School, as the Lions girls basketball team is also off to a strong start. To call last season rough for JSerra would be an understatement, as the Lions went winless with an 0-14 record overall and an 0-8 mark in the Trinity League. JSerra, which lost to Mater Dei in league play by 100 points (101-1), only averaged 13 points per game while thecapistranodispatch.com
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The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
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SJC SPORTS
allowing 77 points per game. Only one player returned for JSerra from last year’s squad, which explains part of the major turnaround. JSerra is ranked No. 1 in CIF-SS Division 3A. JSerra will get its true test in the Trinity League, which opens play on Jan. 4 at Mater Dei.
St. Margaret’s Girls Basketball Last season was far and away the greatest season in St. Margaret’s girls basketball history with its first CIF-SS championship with the Division 5AA title and a program record for wins in a season at 27. It will be tougher to pull off the double act in Division 3A, but the Tartans
are starting in a good spot with plenty of returning players. St. Margaret’s is 5-3 on the early season and ranked No. 7 in CIF-SS Division 3A. The leading returner for St. Margaret’s is Harper Gideons, who has led the Tartans on the scoring front. St. Margaret’s is also getting early contributions from Taylor Francois and Sophia Gazzaniga. With a huge roster of teams in the Orange Coast League, league play starts earlier than most for the Tartans. St. Margaret’s opens league at home against Costa Mesa next Tuesday, Dec. 12. The Tartans are then at Santa Ana on Thursday, Dec. 14. St. Margaret’s host defending league champion Calvary Chapel on Dec. 21.
JSerra Boys Soccer
The JSerra boys soccer team won every championship available to it last season, as the Lions captured titles in the Trinity League, CIF-SS Division 1 and CIF SoCal Regional Division I. While JSerra graduates three of its four All-CIF-SS players from that championship squad, including the player of the year, Reagan Heslin, the Lions still have plenty of talent to push for a repeat of golden glory. The lone returning All-CIF-SS player is in goal with senior Noah Nesson, who posted shutouts in the CIF-SS Final and Regional Final. Defense will be the focus of JSerra’s title ambitions with returning defenders junior Tanner Casey and senior Logan
Manohey manning the Lions backline. Senior midfielder Greyson Moreno and junior forward Gavin Allegaert also return for JSerra. Allegaert tied Heslin for the team lead in goals last season with 13. Returning senior Noah Parks also scored 12 goals. JSerra is 2-0-1 on the season and ranked No. 3 in CIF-SS Division 1. The Lions are also on the Open Division watch list, as the premier grouping makes its debut for soccer this season. JSerra opened with a scoreless draw at Anaheim and posted consecutive 2-1 victories over San Juan Hills and Downey. The Lions open Trinity League play at home against St. John Bosco on Jan. 3 and play at Mater Dei on Jan. 5. CD
TRIPLE THREAT JSerra girls cross country wins third consecutive state championship
BY ZACH CAVANAGH
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he total domination of California cross country continued for the JSerra girls cross country team at the CIF State Championship on Saturday, Nov. 25. The Lions placed four runners in the top 10 to obliterate the Division IV field and capture the program’s third consecutive state championship at Woodward Park in Fresno. The JSerra boys also ran strong in Division IV to earn state runner-up honors. The JSerra girls, who qualified for the state meet by winning their third consecutive CIF-SS championship, earned automatic qualification for the Nike Cross Nationals, where the Lions finished 13th. This is JSerra’s second girls state championship three-peat, as the Lions also won three straight from 2010-12. It is the program’s sixth state title overall. The Lions posted the lowest score (40 points) and fastest team time (1:29:41) in Division IV history. The JSerra girls were paced up front by sophomore Summer Wilson and junior Sophie Polay. While Chiara Dailey of La Jolla won the individual title by 22 seconds, Wilson (17:31) and Polay (17:32) finished second and third, respectively, to stake the Lions out front. Sophomore Kaylah Tasser finished eighth at 17:51, and junior Brynn Garcia
finished 10th at 18:02. Freshman Reese Holley rounded out the scoring in 19th at 18:42, and sophomore sixth runner Chloe Elbaz was not far behind in 21st at 18:49. Freshman Hayden Kroger also ran for the Lions in 32nd at 19:10. JSerra would have won the championship with any combination of its seven runners, as the Lions dominated the team standings with a 110-point margin over second-place Oaks Christian. The JSerra boys followed their CIF-SS runner-up performance with another runner-up finish behind CIF-SS champion St. Francis. JSerra was just ahead of St. Francis after the first mile, 105-106, but as the field settled in, the Lions held the second position to the end of the race. St. Francis scored 66 points, and JSerra scored 124 points. JSerra junior Bradley Arrey and senior Saul Orozco led the Lions’ efforts in 10th and 11th, respectively. Arrey was in 10th at all three mile markers and clocked in at 15:26. Orozco came in at 15:31. Sophomore Alden Morales finished 43rd at 16:25, and sophomore Luke Freidl came in 49th at 16:26. Sophomore Cole Carlson rounded out the scoring five in 62nd place at 16:38. Also running for the Lions boys were sophomore Jack Burnett (16:49) in 73rd and freshman Zac O’Leary (16:58) in 87th.
The Capistrano Dispatch December 8 - December 21, 2023
JSerra girls cross country won its third consecutive CIF State Championship for its sixth CIF State title in program history. The Lions have three-peated twice in program history. Photo: Ken Martinez/DyeStat
St. Margaret’s boys and girls teams also qualified for the state meet in Division V, with the Tartans girls following up their CIF-SS championship. St. Margaret’s saw their girls finish eighth overall, with sophomore Li Joyce finishing 16th at 18:58, and their boys finish 15th overall, with senior Everrett Capelle coming in seventh at 15:28. Just as South Orange County dominated the CIF-SS Finals, two more area teams won CIF State Championships and joined the JSerra girls at the Nike Cross Nationals. In Division I, the San Clemente boys posted the second-best team time of the day (1:16:28) to capture their first-ever state championship. The Tritons were led by senior Brett Ephraim, who placed
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second at 14:58. San Clemente placed three runners in the top 10 for the second-best time ever by an Orange County team in the event. In Division III, the Dana Hills boys posted the best team time of the day (1:16:19) to capture their first state championship since 2009 and fifth state title overall. The Dolphins were led by junior Evan Noonan, who repeated as individual state champion in a blistering 14:35. Dana Hills’ team time was the best-ever in Division III. Dana Hills’ girls finished fourth in Division III, with junior Annie Ivarsson coming in ninth at 18:07 and senior Quinci Lott coming in 15th at 18:24. CD thecapistranodispatch.com
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