September 9, 2022

INSIDE:

SEPTEMBER 9-22, 2022 | VOLUME 20, ISSUE 17

Guest Opinion: Profile of Equestrian Darlene Rudkin

SOAPBOX/PAGE 12

On Stage at The Coach House: Corey Feldman

GETTING OUT/PAGE 15

2022 Fall Sports Preview Talented, Experienced City High School Teams Strive for Championships S P O R T S / PAG E 18

The JSerra girls volleyball team is one of several city teams with title dreams, especially following an unfortunate removal from the playoffs last season. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

thecapistranodispatch.com

Council Selects New City Seal Design

CUSD Students Take ‘No Place for Hate’ Pledge

Editor’s Pick: Shea Center BBQ

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 6

GETTING OUT/PAGE 14

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9–22, 2022

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thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

What’s Up With...

lead and stuck with Ms. Gavin’s design and just worked with that,” Taylor said.

“There’s so many directions. I could have chosen a dozen of these to really work with. I just wanted to thank people who submitted designs.”

The City Council voted, 4-1, to approve Gavin’s depiction. Taylor, Hart, Bourne and Mayor Derek Reeve voted yes. Farias voted no.

“If it was up to me, I don’t think we’re there,” Farias said. “I think that we still have issues as far as this being printed on different media or being viewed through different media.”

When initially bringing up the issue in December, Bourne previously said the old seal design did not show up well on a smartphone.

“My recommendation would be that we instruct staff to work with various artists to come up with something that I think could last another 60 years,” Farias said. “I think that if we go in this direction, as soon as someone has enough votes, we’re going to have a new city seal.”

All the added design requirements by the City Council “didn’t help our cause,” Farias said.

Reeve said it was important to have the seal “tell a story” and reference Serra.

Reeve has previously spoken in favor of Serra being remembered and depicted in San Juan.

“The seal that’s been recommended by the subcommittee fulfills those elements that I was looking for,” Reeve said. “We could do this for years. We’re never going to agree on all elements of a piece of artwork, and that’s why, when the subcommittee was founded, I pretty much was of the mind that it’s not going to be exactly the way I wanted.”

Reeve previously required a split-tale swallow be depicted in the seal, though the approved design does not feature a split-tale swallow. Split-tale swallows are featured in current Mission iconography.

Some residents have said the split-tale swallow is not the one that comes to San

TOP NEWS SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Council Selects New City Seal Design

BY COLLIN BREAUX

San Juan Capistrano officially has a new city seal design that still references Father Junipero Serra but does not feature the controversial figure as prominently.

The City Council selected the new seal designed by resident Kimberleigh Gavin on Tuesday, Sept. 6. Councilmembers and the Cultural Heritage Commission have considered various submitted designs throughout the year after Councilmembers Troy Bourne and Sergio Farias brought up instituting a new design in December 2021.

The new seal features a gray Mission San Juan Capistrano bell, swallow bird, horse rider, oranges and walnuts. It also depicts Kiicha huts that the town’s Indigenous people used to live in, hills, cows, and a blue sky. The seal notes that San Juan was established in 1776 and incorporated in 1961. The seal’s outer rim has a maroon color.

Serra is referenced by name on the bell but not depicted visually. His legacy in terms of interactions with Indigenous people when establishing the Mission system in California has come under scrutiny in recent times, though some residents have said he should be remembered for establishing San Juan.

The previous city seal featured Serra hugging a young Indigenous boy, which some residents—including Farias—found problematic, because they felt it reflected colonialist attitudes that European explorers had toward native people.

“I do think it’s important to keep (Ser-

The San Juan Capistrano City Council has decided to adopt a new city seal that features a Mission bell, horse rider and other aspects of San Juan culture. Photo: Collin Breaux

ra) in the design in some manner,” said Gavin, who is also a local docent. “By putting his name on the bell, it’s a nice way to honor him.”

Gavin submitted several designs with slight differences in each for consideration. Numerous designs from other people were also submitted.

Councilmembers also required the new design depict aspects of both the Mission and Native Americans. The oranges and walnuts are intended to reflect San Juan’s agricultural history.

“We have such a layered history. This tells such a nice story of our city,” said Gavin. “We’ve had that existing city seal for so long, over 60 years, and it was good for its time. I think it looks really nice. … But I think it’s time to get more of the history involved in the city seal.”

A mayoral subcommittee comprising Councilmember John Taylor and Mayor Pro Tem Howard Hart decided on Gavin’s designs.

“We had so many to look at, and we took the Cultural Heritage Commission’s

use buildings with retail and office space and a separate parking structure.

The project will have 216 overall parking spaces, with the majority of them in the structure.

The mixed-use component, which will comprise 27,457 square feet, will include restaurant space.

The overall design concept for the project depicts a “pedestrian-oriented development,” with outdoor seating and dining areas that “incorporate a California-native landscape palette,” an agenda report said. There will also be a setback from the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum, so the historic site is protected.

The current Camino Real Playhouse

Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Camino Playhouse Property Development

BY COLLIN BREAUX

Plans for new retail and office space at the current Camino Real Playhouse property—along with a four-story parking structure—are still moving forward.

Local developer Dan Alqmuist’s plans for the area continued to gain momentum after the San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission approved recommendations to the City Council for rezoning measures advised by city staff on Aug. 24. The project has gone The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

before various city government boards over the past few years as details are ironed out.

The City Council approved initial steps to get a rezoning study and draft project plan started in May and will have final approval of the rezoning measures. The property is at 31776 El Camino Real, at the southeast corner of Ortega Highway and El Camino Real.

The development plans will see the construction of two two-story, mixedPage 3

COMMUNITY MEETINGS FRIDAY, SEPT. 16

Coffee Chat 8:30 a.m. A spirited 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, AUG. 20

City Council 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano City Council will hold a scheduled meeting open to the public. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 21

CUSD Board of Trustees 7 p.m. The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees will hold a scheduled meeting open to the public to discuss and decide on local educational matters. CUSD Board Room, 33122 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano. capousd.org.

FRIDAY, AUG. 23

The next print issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

Juan during its annual migration.

An alternate black-and-white design proposed by Bourne and Farias, which featured a swallow and Mission bell, would have become the new de facto seal if the City Council did not approve another design.

“I’m so happy we are now done with that,” Reeve said after the City Council’s vote.

building will eventually be demolished and a new downtown performing arts center will be built, potentially near the current Playhouse site.

Commissioner Matt Gaffney said he did not have a problem with the project.

“This town, especially in the summertime, is grossly under-parked,” Gaffney said. “We’ve been waiting for this parking structure. … (The project) will certainly be an improvement over what’s there now. Personally speaking, I’ve seen Mr. Almquist and the projects he’s done here in San Juan Capistrano.

Every one of them has been first-class, and he’s a man of his word.”

(Cont. on page 4) thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Putuidem Kiicha Hut Burns in Labor Day Fire

(Cont. from page 3) Commissioners Darren Fancher and Anna Dickinson said they think the project will make a nice addition to downtown, and they like the design of the buildings.

Commission Chair Tami Wilhelm said she also thinks the project is a “high-end, high-quality” project.

“I think the way the parking structure is situated on that site is dimensionally, somewhat, buried in the back so—design-wise—there’s a lot of elevations in front of it that help diffuse it. It won’t look like a big, ugly, massive parking structure,” Wilhelm said. “I think it will actually enhance that portion of downtown.”

The coming redevelopment has elicited backlash from some residents, including Jack Stavano, who spoke during the Planning Commission meeting.

“What disappoints me the most about this presentation is the absolute lack of continuity and character to our town,” Stavano said. “I am shocked that the elevations of this project appear to fit very well with Rancho Mission Viejo or Ladera (Ranch) or Irvine, but they do not fit the image of San Juan. … We are quickly moving away from the bylaws of the city that I have loved

BY COLLIN BREAUX

Replicas of Kiicha huts are seen at Putuidem Cultural Village on Tuesday, Sept. 6. A separate hut burned in a fire at Putuidem the day before. Photo: Collin Breaux

Putuidem Cultural Village opened in San Juan Capistrano’s Northwest Open Space in December 2021 to honor the area’s Indigenous Juaneño and Acjachemen people and featured several replica Kiicha huts to reflect their living spaces.

One of those huts burned in a fire on Labor Day. “Firefighters received a call for a fire in the 29900 block of Camino Capistrano at 11:24 in the morning on 09/05/22,” Orange County Fire Authority spokesperson Capt.

Thanh Nguyen said in an email.“Crews found a replica of a Native American hut that was burned and out on arrival. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

There were no injuries reported.”

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

Other Kiicha huts were unharmed and remain standing. Public access to Putuidem was closed the day after the fire.

Local resident Jerry Nieblas, who has deep ancestral ties to the area and spoke at Putuidem’s opening ceremony, said the news about the fire “is very disturbing.”

“I’m glad no one was hurt, but the destruction of one of our Kiicha replicas is troubling, concerning and leaves many wondering if this will occur again,” Nieblas said in an email. “We can only hope that the city, police services and the general public will remain extra vigilant and will step up their watch over this unique Juaneño/Acjachemen site/treasure. The destroyed Kiicha will rise again!”

Page 4

for 30 years.”

Playhouse Founder Tom Scott, however, spoke in favor of the project and future plans for a new performing arts center—details that were not included in the current proposed building plans.

“Dan Almquist has the vision and the business acumen to pull this off, and I want to go on record as founder of the Camino Real Playhouse that I support his goal for the Playhouse property and adjoining parking lot,” Scott said.

Almquist is seeking funding for the performing arts component and said he will set up a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to raise money.

In response to questions from Wilhelm on if structure parking will be paid, Almquist said there will “probably” be some type of parking validation, because he wants to ensure there is parking available for the office workers.

When addressing general citizen complaints about development in San Juan, including with the new In-N-Out Burger location coming to Del Obispo Street and housing throughout town, Wilhelm said the level of housing is state-mandated and picking the amount and type of development is not under the Planning Commission’s purview.

thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Trustees Consider Resolution Calling for Local Control over COVID Guidelines, Push Final Vote to September Meeting

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

hough statewide COVID-19 restrictions have not been in place in California for some time, pandemic protocols were again the topic of discussion during a Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting last month.

The board on Aug. 17 did not take any action on a proposed measure addressing health guidelines, but it is expected to vote on a resolution at a Sept. 21 meeting that calls for local control of school COVID-19 guidelines, which are currently set by the California Department of Public Health.

Some local parents and CUSD officials have spoken against restrictions being under state control, instead preferring such decisions be made at a county or individual level.

Restrictions were initially lifted in the state of California in summer 2021, and masks are no longer required of students on campus after that rule was lifted earlier this year. While counties and school districts can enact stricter regulations than current state rules, those jurisdictions cannot be more lax than CDPH guidelines.

Students, teachers and faculty have largely foregone masks when returning to campus for the start of the 2022-23 school year last month. There are also no social distancing or vaccination requirements, either.

The resolution up for discussion this month requests that COVID rules fall under the Orange County Health Care Agency. If passed, the resolution would call on local state lawmakers and other elected officials to ask that state health officials delegate “final responsibility” on COVID protocols to local jurisdictions.

It was initially on the agenda for the Aug. 17 meeting and even came down to a 3-2 vote against its passage, with Trustee Lisa Davis absent. Trustees Krista Castellanos, Amy Hanacek and Gila Jones voted against the resolution, while Trustees Judy Bullockus and Martha McNicholas voted in its favor.

Jones had supported the resolution during an initial vote but switched her “yea” to a “nay” after the board realized that four votes are needed for it to pass.

Because the current six-member board is down one trustee, a four-person majoriThe Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

Parents and students hold a rally outside the Capistrano Unified School District offices in October 2021 to protest a then-expected vaccine mandate for California students.

The CUSD Board of Trustees will take up a measure calling for local control of COVID-19 protocols at a future meeting. Photo: Collin Breaux

and we have all this power. We really don’t have the kind of power that boards of supervisors have,” Jones said. “If this passes, I hope people will contact our member, Lisa Bartlett, and encourage her to do this. If you know people elsewhere in the county, encourage them to contact their supervisor. There could be enough energy in this that it could happen.”

Jones brought up the recent outbreak of monkeypox in the U.S. as an example of why she wanted more local control on public health.

“There are probably counties that are never going to see a monkeypox case— some of the small, rural counties,” Jones said. “It would be very sad if the state were to put in some monkeypox restrictions for the entire state when there might be 10 or 12 counties that were totally unaffected, and the same thing could happen with other health issues.”

Hanacek said the resolution and similarly proposed resolutions are “dependent on some outside source and, thus, have no board action, as they have no legal force or effect.”

Numerous local parents at the meet-

ty is required.

Trustee Davis, who has frequently spoken against COVID-19 restrictions and masks, left the meeting before the vote.

Board members decided to reconsider the measure when they had all trustees in attendance.

The resolution was brought forth

by Bullockus, another opponent of state-mandated pandemic restrictions, with collaboration from Jones.

“The original aim of the COVID-19 response was to save lives and to keep our hospital system and intensive care units from being overwhelmed, but in the state of California, one size does not fit all,” Bullockus said. “We believe that the establishment of the COVID-19 protocols are best left to the local public departments, and not to Sacramento issuing for the entire state of California.”

The call for more local control would be done through requests to Gov. Gavin Newsom and state officials, and also invites the Orange County Board of Supervisors to get involved in the plea.

“I know that it seems to many people that we’re these school board members Page 5

ing said they were against the proposed resolution, because they instead preferred health decisions be made individually by families.

Superintendent Kirsten Vital Brulte also addressed other COVID-19 rules at the start of the meeting.

“We only follow the requirements for employee testing that come from CDPH. Most recently, our Board of Trustees passed a resolution to ask CDPH for an end date on testing. We inquired with CDPH about ending their testing requirements, as on a state call,” Brulte said. “However, they will not consider any changes at this point, pointing to state data on hospitalizations and deaths.”

The Sept. 21 Board of Trustees meeting will be held in the CUSD Board Room at 33122 Valle Road. The main session open to the public will begin at 7 p.m. Parents and other members of the public can attend in person or watch a livestreamed meeting video online on the CapoUSD Board Meeting YouTube channel. Visit capousd.org for more information. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

CUSD Students Promote Diversity, Understanding Through ‘No Place for Hate’ Initiative

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

his coming December, students at Dana Hills High School will stand against discrimination in a unique way.

Kids on campus are welcome to create a holiday display that reflects a holiday personal to them, including Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, which will be displayed at the school during the first week of December. Members of the local community, in turn, are invited to come see the displays.

The cultural awareness project is one example of how students in the Capistrano Unified School District are working toward more understanding and less bigotry through the “No Place for Hate” initiative.

Numerous campuses in CUSD have pledged to take part in the national movement through their own individual school clubs. Students who participate under the guidance of an adult school supervisor take part in several activities throughout a given school year, which can include open discussions about topics such as biases and understanding cultural differences.

Schools can be designated as “No Place for Hate” areas by the Anti-Defamation League if they meet designated criteria through activities and events.

“One of the big things we like to touch on is inclusivity, and we work with our students in our special education department and make sure they feel connected to the school, as well as other students,” Dana Hills High student Sophia Anapoell said. “The pledge we take is about not using the ‘r’ word anymore and raising awareness on that.”

One activity that got a lot of people involved was supporting special needs students in a Special Olympics-style event, Anapoell said.

“During our 4th period, as many (students) as could filled up our football stands and cheered on the (special needs) students,” Anapoell said. “I definitely saw a lot more involvement and connection throughout the school.

Everyone had a smile. I definitely saw a change.”

Kaitlin VanDerVeen, who is also in Dana Hills High’s No Place for Hate group, said they began training for the program last year over Zoom.

“Learning how to plan those events that can help promote inclusivity all around the school within all different types of groups of students was super-inThe Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

Students at San Clemente High School list aspects of their identity on strips of interlinked paper as part of an activity for “No Place for Hate,” an initiative intended to improve cultural understanding on campus. Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Brislen

sightful,” VanDerVeen said. “I definitely find people a lot more aware of what they’re doing and the thing they’re saying. There has been a decrease in negative language around schools I’ve been around. That’s been a big change I’ve noticed.”

Anapoell said she has become more aware of her own words and actions, and how she connects with people, after taking part in “No Place for Hate”. She also realized she had implicit biases she wasn’t aware of before, and how to change those perspectives.

“It really reminded me that everyone is a person and we all just want to be treated the same,” Anapoell said. “It was super-helpful for me because now I’m able to communicate with everyone in the sense of them being a person.”

VanDerVeen said she’s learned how to include everyone and plan events to where everyone can participate in, and also how to set inclusive examples for others.

Sarai Torres is actively involved in the Dana Hills High “No Place for Hate” group as well, and said it helped the

members learn how to “redirect” people when they aren’t being respectful or inclusive to others.

“Sometimes I’ll hear people say things and I’ll be, like, you can not say that’ or ‘Say it differently,’” Torres said. “That was really helpful.”

Sandy Mesa, activity director for Dana Hills High, acts as an adult overseer for the school’s chapter. Mesa said the program is a work in progress.

“We’re just going to continue to do the work on our end to create these opportunities to have an environment that’s equitable and inclusive of all students,” Mesa said. “It’s going to take time. We’re massaging it. We’re learning from it. I’m really thankful I have a great group of students in my leadership program that are 100% committed to doing that.”

San Clemente High School English teacher Sarah Kang oversees that school’s “No Place for Hate” group and said the national movement encourages schools to take ownership as far as their individual groups.

“Students come up with the activities.

We have meetings they plan and come Page 6

up with the ideas,” Kang said. “My job is just to help facilitate that on the admin level.”

San Clemente’s “No Place for Hate” had ties to other existing school clubs, including “Cool to be Kind” and the Black Student Union. San Clemente’s chapter started in 2019, and initially hosted activities online during the COVID-19 pandemic before students were allowed to fully return to campus in person.

“One of the things for ‘Cool to be Kind’ was this spoken-word poem called ‘To This Day.’ That poem was about hurtful words,” Kang said. “We got the kids to discuss it.”

Other activities have included watching and discussing informative videos and signing an anti-hatred pledge that includes vows of understanding people who are different and speaking out against prejudice.

Students also got to write down and discuss aspects of their identity and how that impacts how they go through life—and then linked up their writings through a connected garland hung up in the classroom.

“The most important thing is for the students to know is this is a welcoming and caring and inclusive place. It was really clear that students didn’t feel it—many students,” Kang said. “We just want to make sure that it is. One of the ways is to openly acknowledge that we’re working towards that. There’s no perfect school that has the most perfect place that’s caring and inclusive. It is a goal that we strive for and work hard at every day.”

“No Place for Hate” is a program that allows students, teachers, administrators and school staff to work together to create an inclusive environment, Kang said.

“No Place for Hate” provides an opportunity to openly express that and lets students know that we’re working on it and actively incorporating ways to build community on this campus,” Kang said.

“It includes all groups.”

Administrators look at data from the California Healthy Kids survey regularly sent to students and then try to increase a sense of connection and caring based on the results, Kang said.

“We’ll ask students how they feel San Clemente is doing now, and to be constantly self-reflective and inward about this process,” Kang said.

Other CUSD campuses certified by “No Place for Hate” include San Juan Elementary School and Oso Grande Elementary School. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9–22, 2022

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EYE ON RMV

Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo Returns to Fanfare for 20th Anniversary TEXT AND PHOTOS BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

After a two-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo celebrated its 20th anniversary on Aug. 26-27 at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano.

Western enthusiasts filled the spectator stands dressed in cowboy hats and boots to watch competitors ride bulls, compete in roping and strive in other contests.

THE WINNERS Bareback Riding Tilden Hooper Steer Wrestling Jesse Brown Team Roping Kaleb Driggers, Junior Nogueira Saddle Bronc Riding Jake Watson Tie Down Roping Shane Hanchey Breakaway Rickie Engesser, Cheyanne Guillory, Joey Williams Bull Riding Trevor Kastner The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

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The Capistrano Dispatch September 9–22, 2022

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SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | Health & Nutrition 101 by Gina Cousineau

Know Your Cholesterol Numbers

W

SPORTS Zach Cavanagh • 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING Debra Wells • 949.388.7700, x104 debra@wellsadsolutions.com DISTRIBUTION Racks, Driveways, Subscriptions Inna Cazares • 949.388.7700, x111 icazares@picketfencemedia.com GENERAL MANAGER Alyssa Garrett • 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA

FIRST, KNOW YOUR RISK BECAUSE OF THE FOLLOWING FACTORS:

CEO/FOUNDER Norb Garrett

1. Family history of heart disease and/or high cholesterol

EDITORIAL Managing Editor Shawn Raymundo

2. Type 2 Diabetes 3. Being older and/or being a male Photo: Courtesy of Jonathan Borba/Unsplash

4. Being overweight or obese

NEXT, KNOW YOUR BLOOD LIPID NUMBERS (AFTER A 9- TO 12-HOUR FAST): 1. Total Cholesterol. While 200 is the upper “normal limit,” 150 ml/dL is optimal. This number is derived from LDL, HDL and VLDL (related to triglycerides) combined.

2. LDL Cholesterol. About 100 mg/dL is considered optimal. Often considered the “bad” cholesterol, because it can build up in your arteries, leading to heart disease or stroke.

3. HDL Cholesterol. Equal or greater than 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women is considered optimal. Deemed the “good” cholesterol, it can help reduce cholesterol buildup, but often too much weight is given to a “high” level being protective. All lipid values matter.

4. Triglycerides. Optimal levels are typically less than 150 mg/dL. So, let’s talk about the importance of understanding your personal cholesterol numbers. As a dietitian, many of my clients have blood lipid numbers that are out of range, but they are not concerned, for a number of reasons.

I am here to raise your level of curiosity, and more importantly, your ability to shift behaviors that can increase your longevity and decrease years of disability.

Now that you have evaluated your numThe Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Collin Breaux • 949.388.7700, x109 cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com

ith September touted as National Cholesterol Education Month, it provides me with yet another opportunity to remind my readers of the critical importance of their heart health, and my desire each month to provide continuing education on how to move toward a healthier lifestyle.

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death around the world, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year, including four out of five of these deaths because of heart attack.

Humbling statistics, to say the least, given that we actually can reduce our risk with modest behavioral changes.

5. Previous history of high cholesterol

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

bers, if you have hyperlipidemia, meaning one or more of your lipids are out of range, you have too much fat in your blood, and we must heighten our concern, adding into the mix your overall health plus other risk factors, including smoking and/or high blood pressure, which elevate the threat.

HEALTH AND On a positive note, NUTRITION 101 we can lower cholesBY GINA COUSINEAU terol levels, which will dramatically reduce this tremendous health burden.

While prevention will always be my goal, we can both halt and reverse CVD. HERE IS HOW, ACCORDING TO HEART.ORG: 1. Eat a heart-healthy diet. Most diet approaches are about weight loss and not health gain. As a matter of fact, the multibillion-dollar health and fitness industry is proof that the almighty goal of lowering the number on the scale is potentially harmful to our health, with all the pills, powders, potions, and quick-fixes at our fingertips. By the way, you cannot out-train your bad diet. Simply add more plants into your life, including vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, paired with nonfat/lowfat dairy, and lean animal proteins.

2. Become more physically active. All major health organizations recommend 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise. A walking program is a wonderful place to start.

3. Quit smoking. Smoking cessation can lower LDL and increase HDL levels.

4. Losing weight. Losing as little as 5-10% can help improve cholesterol numbers.

This month, I am offering a complimentary preventative care screening appointment. Simply email me at mamag@mamagslifestyle.com to receive an application to become eligible for this 50-minute private session.

Gina Cousineau is a local nutrition expert who specializes in weight loss and helping her clients improve their health. As a trained chef with her BS in Dietetics and MS in Integrative and Functional Nutrition, her goal is to help her clients enjoy every morsel they consume, learning how to move with ease in the kitchen while using their “food as medicine.” Subscribe to her weekly newsletter for complimentary cooking classes, recipes, webinars and more at mamagslifestyle.com, or reach her at mamag@mamagslifestyle.com and 949.842.9975. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch .com.

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City Reporter, SC Times C. Jayden Smith City Reporter, DP Times Breeana Greenberg City Editor, Capo Dispatch Collin Breaux Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh Columnists Fred Swegles Tom Blake Special Projects Editor Andrea Papagianis-Camacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes (SC + DP) Advertising Sales Debra Wells (CD) ART + DESIGN Art Director Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS General Manager Alyssa Garrett Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares FINANCE Accounting & Finance Manager Tricia Zines CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 20, Issue 17. The Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly

by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (sanclementetimes. com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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The Capistrano Dispatch September 9–22, 2022

Page 11

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SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | A Little Bit About San Juan by Jessica DiCostanzo

An Interview with Local Equestrian Darlene Rudkin L ocal resident Darlene Rudkin explains to the San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition, in her own words, how spending time with horses is “good for the soul.”

“When the pandemic hit, it changed my world, along with everyone else’s.

I was informed that my 24-year Nike career has come to a close,” Rudkin said.

“The changes the company was making as a result of the pandemic resulted in an elimination of my role. Wow, I thought to myself, what am I going to do now?

“By this time, our daughter had been eventing for about 2 years. I started spending more time around the barn with the horses, as it felt good for my soul,” she continued. “I began taking lessons and learning the core basics of horse care and riding. I was spending four hours a day, five days a week, at the barn, and before long, I had my first lease, Bentley. As my riding improved, my husband secretly worked closely with our trainer, Auburn Excel-Brady, to surprise me with

my own horse. By November 2021, Carlo R had become my new partner.

“To write that the barn had provided me with the therapy I needed during a time where I was ‘decompressing’ professionally, is an understatement. Having this space literally saved me. The horses and the time spent at the stables kept me from depression. It also provided me with a purpose and has brought me so much joy. I am now certified to provide equine massage to my furry friends, which also brings me joy to be able to give back to them.

“While I have since found employment, I still make time for horses as a dressage competitor, and I serve as a board member and active volunteer with Surf & Turf Therapy. Founder Dr. Jillian Stewart and I met while I was volunteering at another facility. She and I share a love for horses and the ocean, so it was an instant bond. It was really awesome to watch this manifestation come to life and to be a part of such an

amazing organization that is connected to the community and brings wellness to clients looking for alternative therapy that the therapists and volunteers at Surf & Turf provides.

“Just remember, the equestrian community is an inclusive community.

If there is interest in getting involved, everyone I have come in contact with is ready, willing and able to assist and connect anyone with the appropriate person to help dreams become reality.”

We appreciate Darlene sharing her story, and if it inspires you, please reach out to your local stables to find out about introductory lessons and programs.

Jessica DiCostanzo is a San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition Board Member, lifelong equestrian, and co-founder of equivont.com. CD

Letters to The Editor

plans to solve the parking and traffic problems that have developed over the last few years. We voted for these City Council members to represent us. What is the plan to return our town to the residents?

I think for the short term, until the problem is fixed, there should be parking spaces reserved for residents. The city should issue parking permits to all residents of San Juan Capistrano for use of those parking spaces and for parking in town without charge.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This letter was also sent to the City Council.

decisions for the entire city, so his opinions are important to me.

Specifically, I take issue with his comments regarding “keeping small-town vibes,”“ensuring responsible development,” and “keep(ing) Los Rios Street, Los Rios Street.”

The Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano is a beautiful hotel that any city should be proud of, but in my opinion, it doesn’t exude “small-time vibes.”

As to “ensuring responsible development,” I would like to point out that currently the Planning (Commission) has 17 major developments in various stages of approval. One is a four-story parking structure and a two-story building where the Playhouse now sits. I can’t think of anything that would take away more from the charm of Mission San Juan Capistrano, Cedar Creek Inn and the Inn at the Mission hotel than a four-story parking structure.

Additionally, I think it is going to be very difficult to “keep Los Rios Street, Los Rios Street” with the construction of the River Street Marketplace.

This town is being developed into a major tourist destination. Be it the right

PARKING IN SJC BILL STEWART, San Juan Capistrano Claudette Poole’s recent letter published in The Dispatch pointing out the parking problems in our town should be a wake-up call for all residents of San Juan Capistrano. She is not a resident.

We have lived in San Juan Capistrano since I left the Air Force in 1976. Going to town for dinner, shopping or just to walk around was a regular happening.

Now, we don’t do that. We all know the problem. Parking is too difficult to make it worthwhile. My wife used to meet her friends in town for lunch. Now, they go to Cheesecake Factory or Sol Agave.

Town seems to be for those who arrive by train or tour bus or are willing to walk from remote parking.

Our City Council represents the residents of the town. I have yet to hear any The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

SMALL-TOWN VIBES CAROL CHESTEK, San Juan Capistrano I have been a resident of San Juan Capistrano since 1980. Yes, that is a very long time, and, yes, I have seen many changes. Some I enjoy and some I don’t like, but I realize you can’t please everyone all the time.

I was motivated to write this letter because of the comments made by a candidate for City Council for District 3.

I am not in District 3, but if elected, he will serve as a councilmember making

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch .com.

Page 12

Darlene Rudkin recently shared her journey toward renewed purpose with the San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition. Photo: Courtesy of the Equestrian Coalition

CORRECTION: A story about an award on page 8 in the Aug. 26-Sept. 8 issue of The Capistrano Dispatch incorrectly identified who gave and presented the Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano an award. The award was given by the 11th Marines Ceremonial Garden Executive Board and presented by David Thomas.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published.

decision or not, let’s be honest and accept the fact that the ship has sailed for keeping San Juan Capistrano a small town. thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9–22, 2022

Page 13

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GETTING OUT

fishing hooks and lines. Pre-registration is encouraged. Baby Beach, 24300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. standuptotrash@gmail.com. standuptotrash.com

Editor’s Pick

SUNDAY | 18

The List

LIVE THEATER AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE 2 p.m. Get ready to chuckle and watch actors perform in downtown San Juan Capistrano. Camino Real Playhouse is staging Little Shop of Horrors, an adaptation of the classic Broadway musical and comedy film. The show runs through Oct. 2. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

What’s going on in and around town this week THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

FRIDAY | 09 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.

LIVE MUSIC AT PADDY’S 8-11 p.m. Irish band The American Wake will perform. Stop in to listen, dance and have a Friday night pint at this downtown pub. Paddy’s Station, 26701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.3400. paddysstation.com.

SATURDAY | 10 LIVE MUSIC AT SAN JUAN HILLS GOLF CLUB 6-9 p.m. Paul & Richard will perform.

Stop in to listen and dance, perhaps after playing a round of golf. San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.565.4855. sanjuanhillsgolf.com.

STAND-UP COMEDY 7:30 p.m. Have some laughs during this stand-up comedy show. Jim Taylor, Cathy Ladman and Jonny Loquasto will perform. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

SUNDAY | 11 SUNDAY AFTERNOON AT SWALLOW’S 2-6 p.m. Put on your cowboy hat and boots and get ready to enjoy all the Western-style fun at one of San Juan Capistrano’s best-known dive bars and country music spots. Cross Country Line will perform. Swallow’s Inn, 31786 The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

Kids will get a chance to meet animals up close during the petting zoo at this year’s Shea Center BBQ on Sept.

17. Photo: Courtesy of Pixel That! Photography

SATURDAY | 17 SHEA CENTER BBQ 4-10 p.m. The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center’s annual barbecue fundraiser will be happening as usual. Bring the family for a night of games, fun and community connections. There will also be live music, a petting zoo and more. Tickets can be purchased online. The Shea Center, 26284 Oso Road, San Juan Capistrano.

949.240.8441. sheacenter.org.

TUESDAY | 20 TRIVIA TUESDAY 6:30 p.m. Selma’s hosts a trivia night every Tuesday. Assemble a two- to six-person team for a chance to test your knowledge. Call beforehand to reserve a table. Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria, 31781 Camino Capistrano, #201, San Juan Capistrano. 949.429.3599. selmaspizza.com.

Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. swallowsinn.com.

FRIDAY | 16

WEDNESDAY | 21

TUESDAY | 13

‘FRI-YAY FUN’ WOOD WORKSHOP 6-9 p.m. Spend a Friday night crafting a unique item to call your own. Customize a wood sign, bath tray, photo frame, or other item during this hands-on workshop. Registration can be done beforehand online. AR Workshop San Juan Capistrano, 31107 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite B2. 949.482.1362. arworkshop.com.

SAN JUAN SUMMER NITES CONCERT 6-8 p.m. The free outdoor concert series presented by the City of San Juan Capistrano closes out its 2022 schedule with this year’s final show. Orange County rock band Tijuana Dogs will perform.

Bring a lawn chair and blanket to relax while you soak up the music in downtown San Juan. There will also be food trucks, adult beverages for sale, and booths featuring local businesses and groups. A free trolley service will run that day from 4-9 p.m. Historic Town Center Park, 31872 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

COMEDY NIGHT 8-9:30 p.m. Have some laughs during this stand-up comedy show. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online or at the door. Paddy’s Station, 26701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.3400. paddysstation.com.

CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE 8 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue.

Classic folk/pop rock group The Lovin’ Spoonful, known for “Summer in the City” and other hit songs, will perform.

Tickets are $40. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

WEDNESDAY | 14 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 | 17

THURSDAY | 15 CONSTITUTION WEEK CELEBRATION 1 p.m. The San Clemente Island Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will ring bells in celebration of Constitution Week, which recognizes the signing of the U.S. Constitution. This year marks the signing’s 235th anniversary. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.422.2704. sanclementeisland.californiadar.org.

INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEANUP 9-11 a.m. Join Stand Up to Trash at Baby Beach for a Beach Cleanup and Lunch & Learn to celebrate International Coastal Cleanup Day. International Coastal Cleanup Day was started as a way to raise awareness about the growing pollution on beaches of the world.

Special guest speaker Julie Skoglund from International Bird Rescue will talk about wildlife rehab, from oil spills to

Page 14

Want a curated list of the weekend’s best events sent straight to your inbox every Friday? Sign up for The Weekender! thecapistranodispatch.com/weekender

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GETTING OUT

ON STAGE AT THE COACH HOUSE

COREY FELDMAN

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Y

ou might know Corey Feldman from The Lost Boys, Stand by Me, and other classic films.

Come Sept. 13, fans of the actor will get a chance to see him and hear him in person, as Feldman is also a musician who will perform at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano as part of a national tour.

In between tour dates and other media obligations, he took some time to talk to The Capistrano Dispatch about the upcoming gig and what his supporters can look forward to if they go.

“They can expect a lot of love and positive energy,” said Feldman, his voice a bit hoarse from recent performances.

The Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter star said the tour has “been great” despite feeling as if it started off slowly.

There may have been initial doubts from concertgoers that the dates would be canceled, Feldman said.

“But it picked up,” he said. “The energy has been amazing. There’s been a great connection between the audience and my band.”

The majority of people in the crowd are in sync with Feldman and his band the whole night in a reciprocation of

Fans of Corey Feldman will get a chance to see the actor and musician up close when he takes the stage at The Coach House this month. Photo: Courtesy of Manfred Baumann

love, he said.

“Detroit was overwhelmingly positive,” he said. “Pittsburgh was exceptional, as well.”

Feldman is no stranger to The Coach House, having previously played at the South Orange County venue several times. He concedes it’s a “very different venue,” because people sit down and can

eat dinner during concerts, saying that’s a good thing because people are dialed in to the music. Like others who have taken the stage at the venue, he likes the acoustics and lighting there.

He knows many of those attending will be doing so for nostalgia reasons— given the fond memories of his performance in The Goonies and other ’80s cult films—and so is prepared to join in on fans going down memory lane by mixing in elements of his old films.

Feldman said the show will be a multimedia experience for fans.

The show is primarily a concert, however, so the crowd can expect to hear Feldman play songs from his 2016 album Angelic 2 the Core and latest release Love Left 2.1. Audiences seem to really look forward to renditions of the song “Comeback King,” Feldman said.

His music mixes in elements of electronic dance music, pop, rock and soul.

Feldman describes Love Left 2.1 as a spiritual follow-up and homage to his 1990s album Love Left. The new recording continues the hopeful message from its namesake, which was produced during a time of angst and as grunge and gangster rap dominated the radio.

“All the darkness, all the negativity,” Feldman said. “Where’s the love?”

Feldman initially set out on remixing Love Left and only recording a new song or two in celebration of its 25th anniversary. The COVID-19 shutdown left Feldman stranded overseas, so the

AT THE MOVIES

‘Three Thousand Years of Longing’ Nearly Lives Up to the Title

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

n true George Miller fashion, the Aussie filmmaking legend’s latest release, Three Thousand Years of Longing, is epic, colorful, fantastical, wild and— as expected—a flop at the box office.

While Miller has gained a legacy for his Mad Max franchise (1979-2015), producing Chris Noonan’s Babe (1995) and directing the sequel, Pig in the City (1998), himself, I wasn’t surprised Three Thousand Years of Longing seemed to get hardly any promotional hype and was just casually placed at the end of the summer film schedule.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

Photo: Courtesy of Elise Lockwood/MGM Pictures

In present day, Alithea Binnie (Tilda Swinton) is a single, childless literary scholar who is out of town for a conference in Istanbul, Turkey. Alithea’s specialty is storytelling—specifically, the narration of how stories are told.

While ordering room service in her hotel room, the older woman starts washing an old antique she had bought

in the city, which turns out to be a bottle filled with a magical genie she unintentionally releases.

The supernatural being, known as a Djin (Idris Elba), then gets into his life story for Alithea while convincing her to free him of his imprisonment with three wishes.

Three Thousand Years of Longing is loosely based on a 1994 novella called The

Page 15

SHOW DETAILS WHAT: Corey Feldman WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 13. Doors open at 6 p.m.; concert starts at 8 p.m.

WHERE: 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano FOR TICKETS OR MORE INFO: thecoachhouse.com. Tickets are $25.

anniversary milestone passed.

“We kept writing and we kept recording. I was locked out of the country, and we were stuck in Jamaica,” Feldman said.

“I started writing and writing. I flew my engineer in and started recording all these songs.”

By that time, Feldman figured out he had enough material for an entirely new album—something he deemed an “organic sequel.”

Come concert time, Feldman is ready to put on a big show for San Juan Capistrano. He compares the atmosphere to an arena show in a small venue.

“You don’t want to miss the experience, because you never know when it will be the last chance,” he said. “Come out. Enjoy the moment. Never let the opportunity pass you by.” CD

Djin in the Nightingale’s Eye by A.S. Byatt.

Fortunately, Miller and script partner Augusta Gore choose to not overstay their welcome and keep their screen adaptation at only 100 minutes, rather than expand more inspiration from the source.

For the audience’s sake, it’s good that Three Thousand Years lasts less than two hours, because it is very dialogue-heavy on the ethos and purpose of wishes existing, while the actual magical elements are fleeting, yet always present because our male lead is a genie.

Elba and Swinton are fine as the leads, though Swinton’s intense Irish brogue for Alithea got a bit tiring after a while.

I don’t mind theories and philosophical discussions on the ethics of superpowers, but most of the time epic-inscope pictures such as Three Thousand Years—especially with so much backstory and subplot—generally aren’t my thing.

While critics and MGM/United Artists are selling Three Thousand Years of Longing as “Aladdin for adults,” I think I might just stick with Aladdin. CD

thecapistranodispatch.com

CLASSIFIEDS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com

HELP WANTED

Buildings & Grounds Custodian St. Margaret’s Episcopal School seeks to hire a Custodian to serve as an important member of the support team in maintaining the campus and buildings of our school.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Sweep, vacuum, mop, scrub, wax and polish floors using industrial vacuum cleaner and scrubbing and buffing machine • Clean and stock restrooms • Clean ceilings and dust and polish light fixtures • Dust inside buildings, outside buildings, and walls • Maintain cleanliness of walkways by sweeping, blowing, and scrubbing • Assist with setting up and taking down tables, chairs, umbrellas and linens in support of events and social functions • Full-time from 3-11:30 p.m.

This position offers competitive pay and a full benefits package (health, dental, retirement, etc.). Applications and/or resumes may be dropped off at the reception window at the St. Margaret’s campus. For more information, please call John at 949-593-0503 ext. 1309.

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or debra@wellsadsolutions.com

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or debra@wellsadsolutions.com

GARAGE SALES

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 12pm Monday.

FOR SALE SURFBOARD FOR SALE Hand-shaped Channel Islands 7’4” surfboard (20 x 2 3/4). Great condition. $300 OBO. Text 949.702.3142.

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED Experienced Tile setters and helpers, Slab Fabricators, Slab Installation 5 years exp. Top pay based on experienced. 949-395-3369 COME WORK WITH US! FULL AND PART TIME IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Small family owned association management business in Laguna Hills hiring Full Time Administrative Assistant and Part Time IT/Graphic Arts positions.

Good computer and people skills a must. Please send resume to vickie@talleyassoc.com

Want to reach 24,150+ people in the SJC & RMV area? Then you need to be in The Capo Dispatch! Call Debra at 949.388.7700 ext. 104

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

Call Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or debra@wellsadsolutions.com

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or debra@wellsadsolutions.com

Page 16

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SJC LIVING

GUEST OPINION | Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

THE HISTORY OF FLOODS IN SAN JUAN I f you believe the headlines of today, you would think that that the Earth is collapsing around us. First, we’re told that global warming was our major concern. Now, it is climate change and the cold weather of winter that we need to be concerned about. We are going from one climate crisis to another. Besides the record summer heat wave, we are told to be ready for the 100-year flood … but what we are going through is a cyclical pattern that has been going on for centuries. Floods have been a part of the San Juan Capistrano landscape since records have been recorded beginning in 1861.

Following our latest “century” flood in 2010, Don Tryon—former archivist for the San Juan Capistrano MOMENTS IN TIME Historical Society

BY JAN SIEGEL and The Capistrano Dispatch—wrote on the history of flooding in our town over the past decades.

Tryon wrote,“The first heavy floods recorded were in 1825, but there was a lack of detail on what happened. But in 1861 and 1862, it was reported that four weeks of rain fell, and the skies poured out water in such sheets that it tore into adobe walls and carried away soil, chickens and loose belongings. The two raging creeks, Trabuco and San Juan Creek, covered the town.”

Between October 1863 and March 1864, 29 inches of rain fell on San Juan Capistrano. The 1916 flood wiped out several bridges, including two railroad

bridges and 1,000 feet of railroad track.

In 1927, railroad bridges were again destroyed, as well as valuable orange trees, which could be seen floating down to the Pacific Ocean. The 1927 flood completely isolated the town.

The next major flood was in 1938.

It was referred to as the 50-year flood.

A record nine inches of rain fell in six days and, once again, San Juan Capistrano was isolated. Both creeks crested over their banks and inundated all the surrounding farmland. McKinley Bridge, which was located behind Zoomars on Los Rios Street, was destroyed … and, once again, the railroad bridge over San Juan Creek was washed away. This flood affected all of Orange County.

Following the 1938 flood, federal money was allocated to try and tame the Santa Ana River. One answer for the money was to build Prado Dam. Completed in 1941, it has been constantly upgraded due to more and more urbanization. Part of the theory behind Prado Dam was the San Juan Creek watershed. Beginning in Lake Elsinore, there are about 19 tributaries that flow into San Juan Creek, including Trabuco Creek that follows Ortega Highway. As it reached flat land, seepage into the ground provided an underground aquifer. The U. S. Geological Survey installed water gauges to measure the water flow into the creek.

The years 1943 and 1968 saw more flooding, but the worst was 1969, when the water gauges at the U. S. Geological Survey at San Juan Creek measured 5.8 feet. In January and February, 14.56

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

Carly

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

Are you looking for an all-around great dog? Look no further than Carly! This good girl has a sweet demeanor and just loves to be by your side. About 8 years old, Carly likes to be active and yet also knows the value of some nice relaxation time.

Give her a chance, and she might just be your perfect companion.

If you are interested in adopting Carly, please visit petprojectfoundation.org 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 OC Public Libraries.

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo depicts a bell at Mission San Juan Capistrano in 1917.

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 cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com.

inches of rain was recorded in San Juan Capistrano. There were more bridges collapsing. Another flood year was 1982.

As was 1993. That year, the front wall surrounding the Mission collapsed.

The last flood year was 2010, which saw the flooding of the San Juan Hills Golf Club course, the evacuation of horses, the closure of the Mission and suspension of Amtrak service.

Spend a “Moment in Time” reflecting on the meaning of “century floods” and take reasonable precautions. A century is not as long as it used to be.

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 PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR 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 Page 17

thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

2022 San Juan Fall Sports Preview

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

CAPISTRANO VALLEY CHRISTIAN

T

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

he fall sports scene in San Juan Capistrano is filled with teams that have championship aspirations and the talent to fulfill

The CVC girls volleyball team has risen swiftly.

After going 5-21 in 2019 and not fielding a team for the 2020 season, the Eagles vaulted forward in 2021, with a 24-10 record and trips to the CIF-SS Division 7 Final and CIF State Division IV Regional Final.

This season, Capistrano Valley Christian is ranked No. 8 in CIF-SS Division 5, and the Eagles haven’t slowed down.

CVC is 7-3 overall and already 2-0 in league play with sweeps of Pacifica Christian and Webb.

Leading the Eagles are juniors Mikenna Henjum and Addi Williams. Henjum is all over the court as the leader in kills, digs and hitting percentage.

them.

There are several contenders for CIFSS playoff success in each of the sports, with plenty of ability to go around on the volleyball court and on the running trails. San Juan Capistrano will also surely make a splash in the pool with tough water polo teams.

Let’s check in on some of the top fall sports teams for the 2022 season in San Juan Capistrano: SAN JUAN HILLS

BOYS WATER POLO Change is afoot in the Wetlands for the San Juan Hills boys water polo program.

First, in the offseason, longtime head coach Ivan Buich left the program to become an assistant coach for USC men’s water polo. Buich essentially built the program to CIF-SS Division 4 runner-up in 2019 and a Division 2 semifinalist last season.

Second, the Sea View League champion Stallions move up to the South Coast League and need to prepare for a gauntlet ahead of them. San Clemente and Dana Hills split the league title last season, and both teams should be better.

San Juan Hills opens league play against Capistrano Valley on Sept. 27 and then plays San Clemente on Sept. 29 and Dana Hills on Oct. 6.

JSERRA

BOYS WATER POLO The JSerra boys water polo team might be the fastest-rising program in all of CIF-SS. Since the hiring of head coach Brett Ormsby in 2018, the Lions went 20-4 in 2019 with a CIF-SS Division 4 championship and 21-6 in 2021 with a selection to the CIF-SS Open Division. JSerra is now firmly in Division 1, looking to compete and win against the best of the best in Southern California.

JSerra is the No. 1 seed for this weekend’s prestigious Santa Barbara Invitational, just ahead of No. 2 seed Mater Dei. JSerra battles through the gauntlet of the Trinity League starting on Sept. 29 at home against Mater Dei. The Lions also get a chance to measure up to their Open Division ouster last season with a trip to Harvard-Westlake on Oct.1.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9-22, 2022

CROSS COUNTRY

St. Margaret’s girls volleyball faces a new challenge in the public-school Orange Coast League, as the Tartans continue to aim higher. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

against No. 5 Mater Dei at home on Tuesday, Sept. 13.

JSERRA

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL The JSerra girls volleyball team looked primed to achieve CIF-SS glory for the first time in program history last season.

The Lions had qualified for the CIF-SS playoffs only three times in program history, with only one win, but last season, JSerra was the No. 2 seed in Division 3 and swept through the quarterfinals and semifinals to advance to the program’s first-ever CIF-SS Final.

However, the day after their semifinal victory, JSerra was ruled to have used an ineligible player in the second round and was removed from the CIF-SS playoffs.

It’s safe to say that JSerra is motivated for much more, and the Lions are showing it early in the season. JSerra is 7-3 overall and ranked No. 16 in the combined Division 1/2 rankings. The Lions’ only losses are twice to Division 2 champion Aliso Niguel and a five-set match against Laguna Beach, ranked No. 12 and No. 13, respectively.

JSerra opens Trinity League play

ST. MARGARET’S

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Like all of St. Margaret’s sports programs, the Tartans move on from the days of small private-school leagues such as the Academy and San Joaquin Leagues and move up to the bigger world of the public-school Orange Coast League.

So far, so good for St. Margaret’s. The Tartans currently sport a 9-2 overall record and are 2-0 in the Orange Coast League with sweeps of Orange and Costa Mesa. St. Margaret’s also has a tournament win over CIF-SS Division 2 champion Aliso Niguel and a five-set win over San Juan Hills.

The Tartans are led by senior outside hitter Brady Moseley and senior setter Luci Hill.

Peppered throughout the Tartans’ league schedule are home matches against high-level nonleague opponents including Orange Lutheran (Sept. 21), JSerra (Oct. 5) and Laguna Beach (Oct. 13).

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San Juan Capistrano features three championship-caliber, distance-running groups, including a reigning state and CIF-SS champion.

The JSerra girls captured the CIF-SS and CIF State Division 4 crowns last season, and the Lions distance group also nearly singlehandedly won the Orange County Track & Field Championships in the spring. JSerra missed the cross country county title by just one point last season, but the Lions are loaded with returners to make runs at everything this season.

JSerra, ranked No. 1 in Division 4, is led by returning seniors Anastasia Snodgrass, juniors Georgia Jeanneret and Brooke O’Brien and sophomore Brynn Garcia. Seniors Ellie Johnson and Cameron Murphy round out the depth for JSerra.

St. Margaret’s boasts talent on both sides of its program, as the Tartans are ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in the boys and girls CIF-SS Division 5 rankings, respectively.

The St. Margaret’s boys are led by junior Everett Capelle, who finished fourth at CIF-SS Finals and seventh at the State Championships. Also returning are seniors Kevin Shen and Keegan Carnell, junior Kevin Chou and sophomores Jared Botuchis and Ethan Stolper.

The Tartans girls finished second at CIF-SS last season and were paced by returning senior Liesel Blau, who placed sixth at CIF-SS and third at the State Championships. Also returning are seniors Ali Botuchis, Maddie Bendzick, Emma Griffin and sophomores Sarah Bendzick and Coco Johnson. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9–22, 2022

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thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 9–22, 2022

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