March 24, 2023

MARCH 24-APRIL 13, 2023 | VOLUME 21, ISSUE 6

INSIDE: Special Section

A Traditional Celebration Swallows Day Parade Rides Again in San Juan Capistrano G E T T I N G O U T/ PAG E 30

thecapistranodispatch.com

Horses will be part of the Swallows Day Parade this year for the first time since 2019. Photo: File

Council Approves Planning Commission Members

SMWD Begins Temporary Road Construction

Coaches Oppose Proposed Youth Tackle Football Ban

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 6

SPORTS/PAGE 34

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The Capistrano Dispatch March 24- April 13, 2023

Page 2

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EYE ON SJC

What’s Up With...

TOP NEWS SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Council Approves Short-Term Extension on Riding Park Lease

BY COLLIN BREAUX

The City of San Juan Capistrano’s current agreement for Blenheim Facility Management to oversee operations at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park is now good through June 30.

The City Council approved a shortterm lease extension on Tuesday, March 21, since the agreement was set to expire on March 31.

City representatives are negotiating with Blenheim officials Robert and Hillary Ridland, a married couple—also known as The Ridland Group—on a long-term agreement that would ensure continued oversight of and improvements at the riding park.

The city owns the property and pur-

New Name Joins San Juan Planning Commission

BY COLLIN BREAUX

Ted Rosenfeldt will join the San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission as a new member.

The San Juan Capistrano City Council unanimously approved appointments to the Planning Commission on Tuesday, March 21, as recommended by a mayoral subcommittee made up of Mayor Howard Hart and Councilmember John Taylor.

Rosenfeldt will join current Planning Commissioners Stan Braden, Darren Fancher, Matt Gaffney, and Tami Wilhelm, who were re-appointed. Rosenfeldt comes to the Planning Commission with experience on the Parks, Equestrian, and Community Services Commission.

He is a familiar face in San Juan, often attending the community’s Coffee Chat discussions and other local events.

The appointments were approved following a lengthy discussion started by Councilmember Troy Bourne regarding his desire for the Planning Commission to serve as a launching pad for future city leaders.

Bourne floated the possibility of placThe Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

chased it and the wider Eastern Open Space, which includes Reata Park, from Rancho Mission Viejo in 2010.

“At that time and continuously since then, the property has been operated by Blenheim Facility Management under various agreements with the city,” Assistant to the City Manager and Community Services Director Matisse Reischl said. “BFM, as they’re known, provides equestrian competitions, soccer tournaments, community and holiday events, and concerts at the facility.”

The short-term extension calls for escalating monthly payments to the city: $40,000 due on April 1, $60,000 due on May 1, and $80,000 due on June 1.

Those funds will go toward maintaining and operating the town’s Eastern Open Space.

Councilmember Troy Bourne said the “significant” rent increase is due to increasing urgency with getting a longterm agreement in place.

“Some of these projects we’re required to see completed as a city have timelines

The San Juan Capistrano City Council approved extending a lease agreement for Blenheim Facility Management to continue overseeing operations at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park through June, as the two parties negotiate a long-term agreement. Photo: Collin Breaux

ing Planning Commission candidates who are long-term city residents and have technical expertise on the Cultural Heritage Commission instead, a choice that ultimately was not unanimously approved by the other councilmembers.

“We’re strong on lifetime residents who have a lot of experience living in San Juan and understand our culture and history. I think we have a lot of names that bring that to the table,” Bourne said. “We’re short on people who might be future city councilmembers.

We’re short on young families.”

A motion by Bourne to substitute Jennifer McNabb and Colin Harris—people suggested by Taylor—for Rosenfeldt and Gaffney died by a split 2-2 vote. Bourne and Taylor voted yes, while Hart and Councilmember John Campbell voted no. Mayor Pro Tem Sergio Farias was not at Tuesday’s meeting.

Campbell said he was “uncomfortable” with disregarding subcommittee recommendations “at the 11th hour.”

Taylor said the applicant pool was “outstanding.”

“It was difficult to choose who we chose. I had a lot of people’s names chosen,” Taylor said. “There were amazing people with great backgrounds in various roles in the community.”

Hart said the matter was a “difficult conversation” to have in private, let alone publicly and in front of the appliPage 3

associated with them, and we’re trying to avoid creating liability for the city by creating some urgency in the short-term extension, so we can get this deal done as consistent as possible with what was originally proposed,” Bourne said.

The city is required to facilitate water quality improvements under a consent

decree reached years ago, following a lawsuit by Orange County Coastkeeper over poor water quality at the Eastern Open Space due to horses at the park contributing to water pollution through excrement.

Similar short-term lease extensions have been previously approved.

cants.

“This is, quite honestly, the worst part of the job. I enjoy this less than any other part of being a councilmember,” Hart said. “You’re looking at Planning Commission, and I don’t think there’s one person that applied that, as a former planning commissioner myself, I looked at and said, well, they weren’t just as good or better than I would have been.”

Hart said he and Taylor’s recommendations were based on applicant responses during candidate interviews.

“A lot of it went on the sense of how it would reflect the council, how it would reflect our priorities, and how it would affect other commissions,” Hart said. “That’s a judgment call, like in so many other ways we operate up here.

There are no black-and-white answers, and that comes down sometimes to a 30-second answer to a question that they weren’t expecting, perhaps.”

Campbell said making such decisions is a “difficult process” and “gut judgment” based on who councilmembers think will do the best job.

“I might argue that, perhaps, there could be some parameters that are put forward to help guide those selections, as well to bring our pool to a different level,” Campbell said. “We certainly have four people that have served on our commission in the past and done an excellent job.”

Bourne praised the commissioners recommended by the subcommittee and said Braden is “one of the most accomplished architects in Orange County” and Wilhelm “is one of the most effective planning commissioners I’ve ever seen.”

Bourne also said he and Rosenfeldt are close friends, and Rosenfeldt was even his campaign manager when Bourne ran for City Council.

“Part of what I’m feeling is we have this really strong leadership, and then I feel some urgency, because I don’t know that we’re going to have Stan and Tami on the Planning Commission for the next 10 years,” Bourne said. “I feel like we have this opportunity to train new leadership, and my fear is that we have everybody out in the next two to four years and we’re starting from scratch— as opposed to bringing some people in that might be in the city in leadership roles, maybe elected, maybe on the Planning Commission, 10 years from now, having served under these really compelling leaders.”

Campbell said Bourne’s remarks were “spot on” and “understandable.”

The City Council also approved appointments to other city boards, including the Cultural Heritage Commission.

New Cultural Heritage Commissioner Kristina Perrigoue will join the reappointed members. thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

San Juan Capistrano Painter Celebrates Important Women with Art Exhibit

BY COLLIN BREAUX

If you’re in Fullerton and stop by The Muckenthaler Cultural Center, you’ll see Allison Adams’ art on display.

Adams lives in San Juan Capistrano and has painted portraits of women considered trailblazers for an exhibit titled “Groundbreaking Girls,” which runs through March 31. Women depicted include Helen Keller, Amy Winehouse, and San Juan Capistrano’s own Modesta Avila.

“I made a connection with the curator some years ago at another exhibit of my work,” Adams said. “It’s taken four years for us to work together, but she invited me, as curator of the Muckenthaler museum, to collaborate on a vision for Women’s History Month.”

The series began in 2017, shortly after the death of Adams’ husband.

“It was a bit of a grief project when it began, to tell the truth,” she said. “I was looking for inspiration, and when I considered all the women who have done great things despite great obstacles, I knew I had hit the jackpot.”

While the COVID-19 pandemic “put a damper on things for a few years,” Adams is happy her work is on display now for in-person visitors.

“I really think that’s how they are meant to be seen,” she said.

When asked about her approach to art and how long her process takes, Adams said her inspiration comes both from her own ideas and interests, as well as

CUSD Trustees Certify District Financial Report

BY COLLIN BREAUX

The Capistrano Unified School District will be able to meet its financial obligations as usual, according to a report district staff presented to the Board of Trustees on March 15.

District officials presented the required financial report certifying the district is in sound fiscal shape, with trustees voting to approve staff’s recommendation of positive financial certification, based on the presented data.

Of CUSD’s current budget, salary costs for both certificated and classified employees have cost $126 million for the 2022-23 fiscal year. Books and supplies cost $5 million.

As for revenue sources, the financial The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

San Juan Capistrano artist Allison Adams’ exhibit “Groundbreaking Girls” is on display at The Muckenthaler Cultural Center in Fullerton through March 31. Photo: Courtesy of Allison Adams

wanting to educate others.

“I imagine getting to know a friend while I paint a portrait and then introducing her, so it feels very personal,” she said.

“I consider diversity as I look for subjects, and I am drawn to stories and faces from whom I can learn something. Working with historical figures gives me all of that.”

Since Adams mostly works in long-drying oil paint, pieces can take a while—though some paintings come together in merely a day or two.

“I tend to have more than one painting

in progress at a time. In my early days of the series, I knew I had an army of paintings in mind, so I worked very quickly,” she said.“Over time, as I secured more commissions, I worked much more deliberately—but time involved doesn’t make a painting better or worse; it’s just the time that that particular conversation took.”

Adams is honored to have her work featured at the The Muckenthaler Cultural Center, which she called a “beautiful stately space.”

“I have been able to show 71 pieces in

this space. The layout is great,” she said.

“It’s fantastic to represent the legacy of strong women in my home county. And I have loved collaborating with (Curator) Lisa M. Berman, who is filled with colorful ideas and has truly brought some pizzazz and style to the museum and to the arrangement of my work.”

The museum is open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visit Adams’ website at groundbreakinggirls.com to buy her artwork and for more information.

report showed that revenue from a state formula introduced in 2013 called the Local Control Funding Formula—LCFF, for short—made up the bulk of district’s money at $297 million.

Other state and local revenue came out to a combined $9 million, while federal funding accounted for only $372,894.

A full budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year is expected to come before the board in May for approval. Negotiations for employee salaries and benefits are still ongoing.

Based on multi-year projections, CUSD’s amount of surplus funds is expected to decrease in the coming years. The district projects to have about $38.58 million in 2023-24; nearly $30.9 million in 2024-25; and close to $22.32 million in 2025-26, in terms of surplus money.

School districts are required to maintain a minimum of 2% in reserve funds,

and CUSD expects to be well above that in the coming years, with projected ending funds of 20.5% in 2023-24; 25.8% in 2024-25; and 28.7% in 2025-26.

Another statistic that has fallen over time is student enrollment, according to the report. Projected student enrollment numbers for 2023-24 are at 40,939 students—a decrease from the 47,205 students for 2018-19.

Enrollment was variously at 46,501 students in 2019-20; 43,719 students in 2020-21; 42,754 students in 2021-22; and 41,854 students in 2022-23.

“Attendance is projected to be less than 93% of enrollment compared to a 96% average in pre-pandemic years,” the report said.

Student Board Member Alex Zhao said he would like to incorporate feedback from current students into ongoing discussions about educational funding, since they have “good ideas” about the reasons behind the decline in enroll-

ment.

“I was already talking with a lot of students,” Zhao said. “They already had a lot of ideas about why this is happening and how the school district can work to bulwark against it.”

Trustees also again reiterated frustrations about public education being underfunded.

“Sometimes, when we get out there (to the State Capitol in Sacramento), it’s upsetting to see the whole process, that we continually don’t prioritize public education in this state,” Board President Krista Castellanos said. “We’d like to throw money at it in our one-time funding. As you all know sitting up here, we can’t plan programming and do longterm goals with one-term funding.”

Trustee Gila Jones said the board should authorize a trustee or other representative to go to Sacramento in person and talk about the importance of funding education to state legislators.

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The Capistrano Dispatch March 24- April 13, 2023

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EYE ON SJC

COMMUNITY MEETINGS TUESDAY, MARCH 28

Cultural Heritage Commission 4:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Cultural Heritage Commission will hold a regularly scheduled meeting open to the public. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street. sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, MARCH 31

Local elementary school student Edward Reising was recognized by San Juan Capistrano City Council and Fiesta Association officials on March 7 for his bravery in overcoming a brain tumor. Photo: Courtesy of Rick Valasek/Fiesta Association

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

CD | Community Honors

Ambuehl Elementary Student for Overcoming Brain Tumor Ambuehl Elementary School student Edward Reising has overcome a brain tumor—a battle that has earned praise from San Juan Capistrano officials and community members.

In recognition of his resilience, Reising will get to ride in this year’s Swallows Day Parade on Saturday, March 25, in a fire truck with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and Fire Authority.

Jim Taylor, president of the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association—which organizes the event—presented Reising with a vest, badge, and honorary membership during a City Council meeting on March 7.

“We also have a cowboy hat for you,” Taylor said to applause.

Mayor Howard Hart also presented Reising an award for courage and resilience.

“Mr. Reising has shown extraordinary courage in the face of daunting physical peril,” Hart said. “In August 2022, doctors discovered a tumor growing in Mr. Reising’s brain. Mr. Reising was flown by helicopter to CHOC Children’s Hospital, where two days later he had surgery to remove the tumor.”

San Juan Police Chief Justin Montano called Reising “strong, courageous, and tough.”

“I want you to know, you have a 24/7 invitation to our substation anytime you want to see a police car, motorcycle, dogs,” Montano said. “You just let your parents know, and we can make it happen. We’re so proud of what you’ve gone through.”

Montano presented Reising with a The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

SMWD became the water provider for San Juan Capistrano in November 2021.

kids’ deputy hat.

CD | Kid Equestrian Picks Up

CD | Outdoor Dinners Return

Win in Horse Show

to Ecology Center

Twelve-year-old Ortega Equestrian Center horse rider Cora Bro Dollar recently won first place in the Green Rider and Youth categories at the 2023 Wine Country Classic, held March 17-19 in Temecula.

Dollar won belt buckles for both divisions, Ortega Equestrian Center founder and owner Kathy Holman said. The competition will help Dollar in her efforts to win the year-end saddle for both divisions, Holman said.

The WCC is held through the West Coast Ranch Horse Association, of which Dollar was also the High Point Champion for its Best in the West award in February.

The Ecology Center recently announced its popular outdoor dinner series has returned for this spring season.

The San Juan Capistrano farm and community hub hosts nighttime gatherings where people can enjoy farm-totable meals cooked up by visiting chefs.

The dinners will be held every Friday through May. “As one of the country’s only regenerative organic certified farms, we aim to create a partnership between food, our farm and the community,” Ecology Center Founder and Executive Director Evan Marks said. “We allow the culinary artists that we collaborate with to go back to the source. They get to connect with beautiful fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, finding inspiration and discovering the rewards of building a relationship with the land.”

Guests will be seated at tables during the event, which gives them a chance to meet new people. The dinners also include educational talks about and tours of The Ecology Center. Happy hour is also open before visitors dine.

Each specially prepared dinner uses fresh greens, land-grown corn and squash, and farm-harvested fruit and berries, a news release said.

Dinners cost $160 per person and are from 6-10 p.m. Visit theecologycenter.org for tickets and more information.

CD | Santa Margarita Water

District Begins Temporary Road Construction for Utility Upgrades As part of a water upgrade project, Santa Margarita Water District will begin construction on Andres Pico Road and Ysidora Street.

The Don Juan Project focusing on those streets will begin March 27 and last roughly two months, SMWD said.

Construction crews will work Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“Santa Margarita Water District will begin upgrading buried pipelines and pressure zone infrastructure throughout San Juan Capistrano over the next several months. The $1.7 million investment will improve water system reliability,” a news release said. “Due to the narrow streets, residents can expect traffic congestion.

Crews will do their best to accommodate you accessing your driveway.”

CD | Robert Ridland Takes

Over for Swallows Parade Grand Marshal After Dennis Quaid Drops Out San Juan Capistrano Mayor Howard Page 6

Coffee Chat 8:30 a.m. A town hall forum on community issues. The first Friday session of the month will be held virtually via Zoom video conference; all other Friday forums will take place in person at Hennessey’s Tavern in San Juan Capistrano, 31761 Camino Capistrano. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for information.

TUESDAY, APRIL 4

City Council 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano City Council will hold a regularly scheduled meeting open to the public. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street. sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

Learning English Class 10-11:30 a.m. The La Playa Center is hosting free English classes for adults on Wednesdays. Students will be provided materials and workbooks.

La Sala Auditorium, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. crossculturalcouncil.com.

FRIDAY, APRIL 14

The next print issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

Hart has mentioned wanting to get a selfie with actor Dennis Quaid, who was supposed to be the Grand Marshal for this year’s Swallows Day Parade.

That won’t happen, because Quaid had to cancel appearing in the parade due to a busy professional schedule.

Olympic equestrian coach Robert Ridland, who manages the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park along with his wife, Hillary Ridland, will replace Quaid in the role.

Jim Taylor, president of the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association— which organizes the parade—said Quaid regrets having to drop out.

Taylor reached out to other celebrities about being in the parade, but he wasn’t able to secure another famous face.

The Ridlands will be riding in the parade, which will take place in Downtown San Juan on March 25. thecapistranodispatch.com

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The Capistrano Dispatch March 24- April 13, 2023

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EYE ON RMV

Rancho Mission Viejo resident Dale Eisenberg has started a senior yoga club so fellow older residents can stay active and healthy. Photo: Collin Breaux

Resident-Led Yoga Sessions Keep Rancho Mission Viejo Seniors Active

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

s calming music plays, several senior citizens slowly stretch their limbs, stand up, and settle into poses.

Yoga mats are laid out, and the room is illuminated only by natural light coming in through the window, giving the scene a serene feel.

This is where residents of Rancho Mission Viejo’s 55-and-older Gavilán neighborhood meet on Wednesday and Friday mornings for yoga sessions, led by resident Dale Eisenberg.

Eisenberg started the group sessions a few years ago when his neighbors wanted to start doing yoga but were intimidated by the possibility of being judged if they went elsewhere.

“I’m dealing with folks that have never done yoga before and, in some cases, have had hip replacements,” he said.

Eisenberg started the practice in his The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

garage. The meetups have since moved to RMV’s Hilltop Club, a community space available to residents, after the group got too big for his house.

He has been practicing yoga for 12 years and was certified to instruct a few years ago. Eisenberg has been active his entire life, having previously taught martial arts classes. He holds a black belt in Aikido, which teaches people to use an opponent’s momentum to their advantage.

Eisenberg’s neighbors still make up the core of attendees.

“They all rave about how better and stronger they feel,” he said. “It makes me feel good to participate in helping these people improve their lives.”

A focus of his instruction is helping his peers manage their mobility and stability. Techniques that Eisenberg teaches include standing on one leg and controlling breathing.

“Some of these folks have had health issues,” he said. “It helps calm their bodies and minds.”

While in good shape, Eisenberg himself had to find that sense of stillness after his first exposure to yoga came during a hot yoga class—an experience that was taxing for a fitness enthusiast who has done marathon runs and 100mile bike rides.

He has spent two and a half years perfecting one pose, for instance.

“I found it, particularly the hot yoga, super-challenging—physically and mentally,” Eisenberg said. “It helps your mind and body and nervous system and balance. I love it. The people are wonderful. It’s the real thing.”

The sessions for Gavilán residents are to help them if they go on cruises and hikes, he said.

Yoga is also great for people who have Parkinson’s disease, Eisenberg said.

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EVENTS AT THE RANCH MARCH 26

Trail Mixer 9-10 a.m. Come learn about The Nature Reserve, how they’re helping to preserve outdoor land, and what opportunities are available to visit, as well as learn about the area. Staff and volunteers will be on hand, and there will be coffee and snacks. The event is free and will be held at the Ranch Camp in the new Village of Rienda. thenaturereserve.org.

The group meets on Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:15 a.m.

“I want to reach out to everyone in the neighborhood,” Eisenberg said. “It’s free.” CD thecapistranodispatch.com

PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO ANNUAL WEED ABATEMENT 2023 Each year in April, the City of San Juan Capistrano notifies property owners of the requirement to perform weed abatement on their property in compliance with City Ordinance No. 348, no later than May 15th.

The native and naturalized landscape of San Juan Capistrano is highly susceptible to fire. Due to dry weather conditions, it is especially important to reduce this fire potential through the removal of weeds, garbage, refuse and dirt throughout the city.

This maintenance is required to help reduce those risks; taking away the fuel that feeds a fire is an important step in prevention.

All property owners are required to perform the weed/refuse abatement no later than May 15, 2023.

If the required abatement is not performed by the compliance deadline, the City will perform the work and assess charges to the property owner for the abatement plus administrative costs. The City encourages property owners to avoid administrative costs by performing their own weed abatement or by contacting an outside company to do the required work. Weed abatement and rubbish disposal specifications for the City of San Juan Capistrano are: Residences (including front, side, back, and parkways): • Lawns: remove all weeds exceeding six (6) inches in height. Mow lawns to uniform height, not to exceed three (3) inches and trim all edges.

• Unplanted or completely overgrown areas: reThe Capistrano Dispatch March 24- April 13, 2023

move all rubbish, refuse, etc. Mow or clear by hand equipment until property is clean of all weeds.

Undeveloped Parcels: • Mow or clear weeds by hand equipment to a height of no taller than (2) inches above the soil surface.

• In the event tumbleweeds exist on the property, they must be removed.

• Edge or hand cut around all walls, walks, curbs, telephone poles, street parkways, and other obstructions until property is clear of weeds.

Note: Burning is prohibited by the County Air Pollution Department; therefore, all tumbleweeds and rubbish must be removed from the site.

The City’s Ordinance also requires properties to be maintained year-round. We need your help to make sure our community stays safe from wildfires. For specific questions regarding weed abatement in San Juan Capistrano, please contact the City’s Weed Abatement Administrator. Telephone: (949) 4983359, e-mail: ed@estewartinc.com Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Complete your required legal or public notice advertising in the Dana Point Times.

EMAIL legals@picketfencemedia.com CALL 949.388.7700, ext. 111

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The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

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The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

NOW N OW H HIRING IRING SEASONAL AND YEAR-ROUND!

PART-TIME POSITIONS: RECREATION LEADERS I,II,&III ($15.75-$21.11) POOL LIFEGUARDS ($17.79-$20.60) WATER SAFETY INSTRUCTORS ($18.68-$21.63) HEAD LIFEGUARDS ($19.15-$22.17)

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WELCOME

Summer Camp & Activities Guide

Local Boys & Girls Clubs to Host Summer Camps

By C. Jayden Smith

T

he onset of summer brings a need for activities to fill children’s days, and one entity well-versed in providing school-age students with fun and learning opportunities is the Boys and Girls Club.

Readers within our tri-city area have two options at their disposal, in the Boys and Girls Clubs’ Capistrano Valley branch at 1 Via Positiva in San Juan Capistrano, and the South Coast Area organization located at 1304 Calle Valle in San Clemente.

The San Juan Capistrano location will host its 2023 Summer Camp on Mondays through Fridays from June 3 to Aug. 4, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Participants will access field trips and opportunities in STEM, art, sports, and more.

The camp is open to students entering first grade up to students entering their senior year of high school.

The price is $125 per week, or $35 for a single day, with financial assistance available.

Contact the Via Positiva branch at 949.542.4495.

Spring is officially here and there’s no better time than the present to start thinking about your child’s extracurricular activities for the summer months, which are just around the corner.

To help parents and guardians who are considering which camps to enroll their kids, we present our annual Summer Camp Guide. The issue is chock full of information on fun—and educational—programs that several local organizations are offering this year.

This year’s Summer Camp Guide is sure to get your kids rockin’ and rollin’ as we chat with the owners and operators of the area’s music schools that are offering fun learning opportunities for students interested in picking up an instrument or fine-tuning their musical talents.

The owners of Goods and Goats Market, the San Juan Capistrano-based farm, highlights its unique, hands-on summer camp where students learn to care for farm animals and grow seasonal fruits and vegetables.

We outline the junior lifeguard programs that the City of San Clemente, the San Clemente and Doheny State Beaches, and California Junior Lifeguards host each year that teach children to be safe and confident in ocean waters, as well as CPR, first aid and rescue techniques.

The Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente tells us about its arts education classes offered to kids of all ages during the summer, such as its Paint and Play series or its college dance program.

And speaking of art, local renowned artist Rick Delanty provides some tips and tricks for kids to start their own summer art project.

Keep reading on to check out all of these stories and to find out more useful information and resources that can help you plan your child’s summer activities.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

Page 13

At the South Coast Area club, its camp will run from June 5 to Aug. 11, on Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The camp will be closed for the days of July 3 and July 4.

In addition to weekly and daily payment options, families can pay $700 for each child to participate for the full summer. Prices increase on May 20.

Discounted pricing is available for families approved by the state’s Expanded Learning Opportunities Program.

The camp is for children going into the first through eighth grades, with free meals and snacks and fun activities. For incoming third- through eighth-graders, sports camps will consist of basketball, pickleball, soccer, volleyball and more.

There will also be field trips to places such as the zoo, a trampoline park, and Santa Ana’s Discovery Science Center, as well as in-house activities including a magician and a petting zoo.

High schoolers will have limited opportunities to participate as Leaders In Training.

Registration opens on April 5 at bgcsca. org/summercamp. thecapistranodispatch.com

Casa Romantica Summer Classes Nurture Passion for the Arts

DAILY ACTIVITIES FIELD TRIPS SPECIAL PROGRAMS

ARE YOU READY FOR

SUMMER CAMP?

June 5 - August 11

10 weeks - June 5 to August 11

By Breeana Greenberg

C

asa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente offers a variety of arts education camps and programs for children of all ages, from their paint and play series introducing visual arts to young children to their college dance program for teens considering a major in dance.

Paint and Play Series Families can enjoy painting and drawing activities on the grounds of the Casa Romantica through the Paint and Play Series. The series is recommended for kids ages 2-5.

Casa Romantica Executive Director Amy Behrens says that early exposure to arts education in childhood development “integrates the left side of the mind, the right side of the mind, They’re utilizing a lot of creative cognition skills, they’re learning how to share and move from parallel play to interactive play with other students.”

“So it’s all around a fantastic class for young children to participate in; it’s a core part of our arts education program for young students,” Behrens continued.

Casa Kids Creative Camp Casa Romantica’s new format of their Summer Camp offers an introduction to dancing, singing and painting. Kids ages 5-8 will work with professionals in Orange County from a wide variety of creative mediums. The program will run for four weeks, with three hours of instruction each Monday.

“We’ve had so many families who wanted to participate in some of our other arts education programs but were hesitant to sign up because they weren’t sure if their children were ready to commit to something,” Behrens said. “Casa Romantica offers this as a service to these families, because it’s such a low barrier to entry.”

In the creative camp, kids can learn about different genres of dance, vocal arts, painting, drawing and sculpting and more.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

“From there, we hope that it’ll inspire those children to participate in activities of their school or after school, during the normal school year,” Behrens said.

Casa Romantica Music Student Ensemble Free masterclasses will be held in August for serious musicians ages 13-17, with auditions and weekly classical music ensemble practices from September through June.

Casa Romantica Music Student Ensemble developed from Casa’s Summer Music Academy, which has run for the past seven years. This year, Casa is taking a break from the Summer Music Academy to launch new programs, including the Music Student Ensemble.

“The classical music ensemble is really one of its kind opportunity for talented young students performing classical music to have access to really fantastic training weekly as an ensemble,” Behrens said.

In the first year of this program, Casa aims to put together a small classical music ensemble from students selected from the auditions. Students in the ensemble will have performance opportunities throughout the year.

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College Dance Program Casa Romantica’s three-day dance program consists of masterclasses for serious high school dancers considering a major in dance in college. The program builds a connection between college dance departments and high school student dancers, partnering with Cal State Long Beach, Chapman University and University of California, Irvine.

“We’ll be providing masterclasses with instructors from each of those universities and colleges, and a variety of genres for teen students and providing them with lecture and instruction opportunities and choreography and movement so that they can put together a portfolio piece to present prospective colleges and universities,” Behrens said.

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Junior lifeguard programs at several sites in San Clemente and Dana Point teach children to be safe and confident in ocean waters, as well as CPR, first aid and rescue techniques.

Photo: File

Safe & Soaked Junior Lifeguard Programs Teach Ocean Safety, Confidence for Kids in the Water

By Zach Cavanagh

S

ummer in South Orange County means sandy, salt-crusted, sunsoaked days cooling off in the waters of the Pacific Ocean. For safe, fun and organized beach expeditions, many youths and their families choose from a selection of junior lifeguard programs in San Clemente and Dana Point.

For kids of all ages, junior lifeguard programs offer a way to introduce them to ocean waters in a fun and safe way. These programs can give kids confidence in jumping into waves by teaching them a safe way to do so.

In addition to marine safety, first aid taught through a slew of fun activities, these programs can also help young watermen and waterwomen develop leadership skills.

Here’s a quick look at the area’s several junior lifeguard programs:

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

City of San Clemente Junior Lifeguards One of the most popular and well-regarded programs in South Orange County is the junior lifeguard program run by the City of San Clemente down at the Pier beach.

Over 800 boys and girls between the ages of 9-16 take part in the program each summer. The program has activities like pier jumping, pier swims, bodyboarding, body surfing and plenty of other swims. The priority of the program is education and experience in ocean safety, along with first aid and rescue techniques.

For kids new to the junior lifeguard program, a swim test must be passed to be eligible for registration to the program. The swim test, which costs $5, will have kids swim four lengths of a pool, which is 100 yards, in under two minutes. These swim tests take place on Saturdays (March 25 and April 1 and 8) at the San Clemente Aquatics Center from

9:30-11 a.m. and Wednesdays (March 29 and April 5) at the Ole Hanson Beach Club from 6-7:30 p.m.

Registration begins on April 26 at 8 a.m. for one of three program sessions (June 5-23, June 26-July 14, July 17-Aug. 4).

For families wishing to enroll in the program but have a financial hardship, scholarships may be available if there is enough funding through the San Clemente Lifeguard & Junior Guard Foundation. In 2022, the foundation funded 10 scholarships, including programming supplies.

More information on the program, registration and the scholarship application can be found at san-clemente.org/JG. San Clemente State Beach & Doheny State Beach Junior Lifeguards The California State Parks runs its own junior lifeguard programs at San Clemente

Page 15

State Beach and Doheny State Beach.

The state programs offer six hours of instruction per day in four two-week sessions.

The programs teach general aquatic safety, team-building and physical fitness. There are recreational activities like surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding and dodgeball. There are also educational activities such as CPR, first aid, rescues and other beach operations.

The state programs make sure to state they are not “learn to swim” schools, which means, like the City of San Clemente program, there are swim tests prospective junior guards must pass to register. The tryout requirements are based on age. For 8-10-year-olds, they must swim 100 yards in under two minutes, 10 seconds. For 11-12-year-olds, the time standard is two minutes, and for 13-15-year-olds, the time is one minute, 50 seconds. The tryouts also include swimming 10 yards underwater and treading water for five minutes.

The tryouts for both the San Clemente and Doheny programs will take place at San Clemente High School from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 15, April 29 and May 13.

The four sessions for junior lifeguards will be June 5-16, June 19-30, July 10-21 and July 24-Aug.4.

Both state beaches also hold a Summer Surf Camp from Aug. 7-11. Doheny offers a three-day surf camp July 5-7 and a Spring Break Surf Camp from April 3-7.

More information for the San Clemente State Beach program can be found at parks. ca.gov/?page_id=21967. More information for the Doheny State Beach program can be found at parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30324.

California Junior Lifeguards & Mini JGs at Salt Creek There are one- and three-week options for junior lifeguards ages 8-17 and a one-week program for Mini JGs ages 5-7 offered by California Junior Lifeguards at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point.

Unlike the City of San Clemente or State Beach programs, California Junior Lifeguards sets itself apart with a younger session for kids 5-7 years old. This Mini JGs program runs from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in 10 different one-week sessions from June 8-Aug.21. There are no tryouts, and the program allows for more fun time for these younger guards.

In the main three-week programs for 8-17-year-olds, junior lifeguards are taught in an educational and recreational environment on how to safely handle ocean situations.

Kids are taught on emergency situations, teamwork, self-respect and an awareness of the environment. There is instruction on CPR, first aid, ocean safety, rescue techniques, surfing and bodyboarding, among other skills.

There are also activities for marine biology, oceanography and nutrition and diet.

Unlike the other programs, there are no tryouts. The California Junior Lifeguard programs are open to swimmers, surfers and bodyboarders of all ability and skill levels.

The three sessions will be held June 5-23, June 26-July 14 and July 17-Aug. 4.

More information on both programs can be found at jrlifeguards.com. thecapistranodispatch.com

Note for Note Music Schools Offer Summer Camps for Kids

By Collin Breaux and C. Jayden Smith

O

n a Saturday morning, the sound of The Cult song “Fire Woman” fills the air.

Kids are up on stage, singing and performing the hit song. They variously speak into a microphone, pound away on a drum kit, or strum guitar strings as they cover the rock hit.

So weekend rehearsals go at Los Rios Rock School in San Juan Capistrano, one of several South Orange County music schools that teaches kids how to perform rock music.

For teens and pre-teens taking a break from school this summer, they can spend the interim as a rock star at various musical camps—including with Los Rios Rock School.

Six camps will be offered this year for students ages 6-17, in June and July.

“Our summer camp is a way for people— especially who aren’t doing the normal yearly membership here—to get a taste of (the school),” School Director Philip Allen said.

“They’re really fun weeklong crash courses in what we do. Kids show up. They learn a song or two, rehearse it with their band, and then put on a concert at the end of the week.”

The cost is $399 for new students and $299 for current students.

“It’s a really cool way to get involved with playing in a band if you’re an instrumentalist and you’ve never played with anyone before,” Allen said. “You can see what that’s like. You get to hang out with the directors and have that immersive experience.”

Kids practice during the morning, from Monday through Friday.

While the school’s focus is on rock, instructors also guide students with general musical compositions.

“We all come mostly from rock backgrounds, but we teach music as a language, as our philosophy,” Allen said. “One of the most amazing things about our culture and campus here is that we encourage everyone to bring their own styles in.”

Kids are welcome to explore their interest in learning country songs, for instance.

“There’s always this sort of ‘I’m not a country player, I don’t want to do that’ (feeling) and then, by the time they learn the song, they’re like, ‘Maybe I l kind of like country now,’” Allen said. “We do try to encourage everyone to push everyone’s boundaries a little bit. We’ve done everything from heavy metal to disco to a cappella.”

The students choose a song to learn and play together for the week and are then assigned specific instruments and parts to perform.

“There’s two parts: learning their individual part on their instrument, but the more important part that we bring is then learning how to apply that in a band situation,” Allen said. “One thing we’re sort of trying to combat a little bit The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

is the idea that there’s a lot of people who can play a song on their instrument when they’re playing to a track or YouTube.”

“That’s great, but a lot of people don’t realize that’s a safety net because you’re playing to a prerecorded track that is never going to be wrong,” Allen said. “You have this thing guiding you along. When you have four people playing together with no safety net, you realize there’s a whole part of it knowing the song by heart, being confident in the next section, and being able to communicate with each other in a musical sense.”

Performing as a band helps teach kids patience and interpersonal skills, Allen said.

“You get in a band, and you realize you’re trying to please four people. When they learn this at an early age, it’s kind of fun because

camp in June and July. The cost is $325 per week.

A visit to Danman’s on a given night will find kids practicing on piano and guitar.

“The camps consist of about, usually, six to 10 students,” founder and owner Dan Lefler said. “We have two types of camps, rock camps and vocal camps. The rock camp gets together, figures out the music they like, picks the songs they want to do, start working out their parts. The next day, they’ll generally do a photo shoot. They’ll do a poster.”

Posters of past camps are hung up at the school.

“Many times, they’ll do T-shirts. They create a band shirt as part of the project,” Lefler said. “They come, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. There’s a little snack period. On

Eliana Martz practices playing the guitar at Danman’s Music School in Dana Point. Photo: Collin Breaux

they have this communal vested interest in this song,” Allen said. “You do start to realize that if someone’s a weak link or if someone’s falling behind, it’s on everyone to help bring them up.”

Even if the students never pursue music after the camp, they can carry that camaraderie and team skills over into their adult lives, Allen said.

“We don’t expect everyone to be best friends, but you still have to figure out a way to work,” Allen said. “As adults, you go into the working world, you realize—joining a company or starting a business or whatever it is—you can’t always be in the workplace with everyone you love, but you still have to make it work. Being in a band situation, there’s something very conducive to that and something that kids can grasp onto early because they are all part of that team.”

Over in neighboring town Dana Point, Danman’s Music School is also offering a summer

Friday at 12:30, they do a concert on stage for parents and friends (next door at StillWater Spirits & Sounds).”

Music education and performing in front of an audience enable kids to learn how to think under pressure, Lefler said.

“When you play music, you have to recall information in a precise order,” Lefler said.

“A lot of kids that are super shy, once they do a few performances, they’re not so shy anymore. Other than that, it’s really fun.”

For those who play on a level above most, San Clemente’s Beach Cities Rock Club offers a fun summer alternative that will help children hone their musical talents.

The Music Video Summer Camp will occur from Mondays through Fridays during the weeks of June 19 to June 23, June 26 to June 30, and July 24 to July 28, at a cost of $299 per camper.

“Basically, the kids are going to learn a few songs in a set, and then we’re going to be virtuPage 16

ally livestreaming it (so) it’s like a music video,” said co-founder and owner Biff Cooper.

From Monday through Wednesday, the children will learn the songs, before recording and filming in the facility’s studio on Thursday and Friday. At the end, the students will receive a copy of their video to share with friends and family.

Cooper added that he is unsure whether the video process will be livestreamed or be recorded separately before ending up on YouTube this year, but the camp has been done in previous summers.

The music school staff do try to help children still in the beginning phase of learning music, but overall, the camp is tailored to those who have reached a specific level of intermediate or higher.

Beyond the camps, the Beach Cities Rock Club is an afterschool program that teaches students to perform cover songs whether by singing or by playing the bass, drums, guitar, piano or ukulele. Monthly memberships are $185 per month and include weekly private 30-minute lessons and band classes.

After his five-year foray into giving music lessons independently, Cooper partnered with another record store in 2013 to start the school. A series of personal events showed him and his wife that they needed to continue on their own.

“The concept was that we would do music lessons in the back of a record store, because that was a way—through osmosis—that kids could get interested in music and look through a record store and have that experience of learning about different genres,” Cooper said.

Now, the school utilizes its own recording studio to help students and artists acclimate to being in a recording environment and put out songs.

Even during the summer, the afterschool times remain the same, as students and parents are accustomed to the classes’ place in their schedules. The music video camp classes will take place in the mornings.

Cooper enjoys the positive impacts music lessons have on those that take part in the school, as he looks to give students a constructive outlet to express themselves and heal.

That sentiment follows the Rock Club’s mission statement as an organization that seeks to guide students toward achievement in a “safe, creative and goal-oriented environment.”

“To me personally, just giving students that purpose, artistically, and (for them) to be inspired by art and to show them that (art) is inspirational,” Cooper said. “That’s probably it for me.”

More information about the various rocks schools can be found online at losriosrockschool.com, danmans.com and beachcitiesrockclub.com. thecapistranodispatch.com

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The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

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Goods and Goats Summer Camp Teaches Importance of Farming and Animal Care

By Breeana Greenberg

T

ucked away on Trabuco Creek Road in San Juan Capistrano, the small Goods and Goats Market farm offers a hands-on learning experience at its summer camp and Junior Farmers Program.

Goods and Goats Market hosts four weeklong summer camps for kids ages 6-12. Campers can sign up for half-day camps from 9 a.m. to noon or full-day camps from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In addition to the summer camp, Goods and Goats also offers a six-week Junior Farmers program where kids can spend more time learning to cultivate the land, care for the farm animals and enjoy spring farm adventures.

Each day at the Goods and Goats summer camp begins with a morning meditation, intention setting and dream journaling.

Once intentions for the day are set, students will move into the gardens and goat areas to focus on planting, soil health, plant anatomy and animal and overall farm care. In the garden, kids will learn to grow fruit or vegetables that are in season at the time.

“We want the kids to actually eat and touch the fruits and vegetables that they plant and cultivate,” Educational Director and Farm Manager Lara Hughes said.

After learning to garden and cultivate an edible garden, Goods and Goats Market Owner Lani Jones explained that kids are more willing to eat something they have never tried before, and it “always tastes better because it gets to fully ripen.”

At the end of the Junior Farmers program, kids will cook a dish from the local seasonal fruits and vegetables that they learned to cultivate.

Each camper will get hands-on, one-on-one time with the farm’s Nigerian Dwarf goats, learning about proper goat care and anatomy.

“Our Junior Farmer program and our summer camps are two parts,” Hughes said. “So part of it, we want to teach kids about cultivating the land and how important that it is to be future stewards of our world and how they can take it on themselves and maybe take it back to their own house and their gardens.”

“Then the other half is our animal anatomy, where we focus on the goats’ horn and hoof care,” Hughes continued.

Every kid will get to choose a goat that they will spend time and bond with throughout the week. The kids will then learn to walk the goat on a lead, like walking a horse and learn about hooves and horns and how to care for them. Campers will even get the chance to enjoy storytime with the goats.

The farm has 36 goats on the property, with many of them born on the property, some from other farms or rescued from untenable living situations.

“Our goats are now born here on the property, but when Lani started, some of the goats came from a different farm so some of the horns have been removed from another farmer or bred out,” Hughes said.

Hughes explained that kids tend to have many questions because some of their goats have horns and some do not.

“So we talk about that and then we teach the kids how to trim their hooves up,” Hughes said. “We also talk—which goes into any farm life—about the cleanup.”

“I think there’s always this glamorous picture of a farm, The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

Goods and Goats Market Owner Lani Jones and Lara Hughes, educational director and farm manager, offer a unique, hands-on summer camp where students learn to care for farm animals and grow seasonal fruits and vegetables. Photos: Breeana Greenberg

“We want the kids to actually eat and touch the fruits and vegetables that they plant and cultivate.”

—Lara Hughes

but the reality of a farm is that’s what happens, they go to the bathroom, we have to clean up, we have to keep them in good conditions,” Hughes continued.

Jones explained it’s valuable to teach the kids about hard work and what goes into caring for an animal, as well as how to compost during the cleanup.

Campers will be able to get creative with many different crafts like building birdhouses, tie-dying, painting kindness rocks and more. Students will also learn through hands-on science experiments.

Hughes’ background in animal science, wildlife conservation and biology informs her experience teaching campers.

“I do really gravitate towards science, so I really like it to be Page 18

hands-on,” Hughes said. “So every Junior Farmer Session and even every week in Camp, there will definitely be one or two science experiments that we do, but it will always pertain to what we’re doing.”

“So winter was potatoes, so we grew potatoes, our feast was potato soup, and then we did a science experiment with potatoes where we all worked together to create a battery with potatoes, and we were able to turn on a clock,” Hughes continued.

Through hands-on science experiments, Hughes can teach campers about the scientific method, creating a hypothesis and testing it.

At the end of the day, campers will have free time around the farm, where they can interact with resident bunnies, guinea pigs and chickens, zip line, play with vintage Tonka sets and more.

Families who sign up before April 15 will receive an early bird special of $40 off per summer camp registration. After the early bird discounts, sibling discounts are available for families who sign up multiple campers. The camp includes a Jr. Farmer Goods & Goats Market T-shirt and a dream journal. thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

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NATURE RESERVE OFFERS OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES FOR KIDS For children eager to spend time outside and willing to learn about ecology along the way, The Nature Reserve in Rancho Mission Viejo is offering a spring break camp where they can explore the preserve in a fun way. The camp will be held from April 4-6, with a new theme each day. April 4 will give kids a chance to learn about reptiles, April 5 an opportunity to make wildflower-themed art, and April 6 concluding with a day of outdoor eco-themed games to teach campers about recycling. Each day will also give youngsters an opportunity to do a 1-mile trail hike. The camp costs $45 for one day and $115 for all three days.

The day’s activities will be from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with drop-off starting at 8:30 a.m.

Registration and more information can be found at thenaturereserve.org. — Collin Breaux

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

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Starting a Summer Art Project with Rick Delanty

By Shawn Raymundo

S

ummertime can bring so much fun and excitement to children’s lives, whether they’re going on adventures with friends, traveling with family, or, on occasion, getting into a bit of mischievousness.

With all that fun, though—in between days of just lounging around the house—those summer months can really fly by, leaving little opportunity for creativity.

To help parents and guardians who are looking for their kids to exercise some creativity this summer, we spoke with renowned San Clemente artist Rick Delanty, who shared some advice on how kids can spark their imagination, putting pen—or pencils, markers or painted fingers—to paper.

“Creativity is not just applicable to art professions, but to any (field),” he says. “I think getting involved in the arts, just like getting involved in sports, is creating a well-rounded, adjusted individual that can be successful anywhere, so I think it behooves parents to give this drawing stuff a try.”

“It’s really exciting for the kids to plunge the depths of their potential and realize things that are in there that they may not otherwise unless the parents or teachers help bring those out,” Delanty adds.

To get started, one of the first things a parent should purchase for their kid, Delanty says, is a sketchbook. The sketchbook simply allows the artist-in-training to learn by doing, drawing various shapes and anything else they see.

One of the goals of the sketchbook, Delanty says, “is to have those kids do anything they want to from their imagination; start drawing things they actually see, emphasize the idea that drawing is not photography, it’s all about shapes and the inter-

San Clemente artist Rick Delanty offers some advice and tips for parents who are looking to access their child’s creative and artistic side during the summer. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

“It’s really exciting for the kids to plunge the depths of their potential and realize things that are in there that they may not otherwise unless the parents or teachers help bring those out.”

—Rick Delanty relationship with that.”

As for what to draw with, the age of your child will certainly be a factor. Delanty says that if your kid is very young, he’d start with finger painting and chalk. For kids in upper elementary

school grades or in middle school, he advises getting them watercolors or markers. And for those in high school, they should be using pens, drawing pencils and paint.

Delanty notes that while he, as a professional, uses an eraser to clean up finger marks on his drawings, he advises parents to not emphasize the use of erasers with their kids.

“I wasn’t a big proponent of erasers because an eraser means you can back up and correct what you did and makes kids tentative,” he says.

Parents, Delanty also advises, should look to maintain a consistent schedule with their kids when it comes to meeting benchmarks on a project. Sitting down to work with them a set number of days a week, at a specific time, will build consistency that allows the kids to set expectations so it’s not just a project to pursue when they’re bored.

“The whole thing is consistency, and developing any kind of creative skill depends upon consistency whether the kid is learning to play the clarinet or whether they’re learning to draw,” Delanty says, adding, “I don’t think creativity should ever be—or a creative act should never be—associated with boredom.”

As some final advice to parents, Delanty says that an emphasis on creativity can’t be underestimated.

“It’s really important that parents focus on creativity,” he says, later adding that “parents can be the kid’s biggest influence in developing their own creativity at home, and this is the major way to do it.”

Delanty says additional information about artist resources and developing a kid’s inspiration for creative drawings can be found at accessart.org.uk.

Scholorships available

WestwindSailing.com (949) 492-3035

 Sailing Camps  SUP Camps  Half Day Classes Adaptive Boating  Private Lessons  Specialty Programs Certified US Sailing Community Sailing Center & STEM Hub The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

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thecapistranodispatch.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

& RESOURCES 949 VOLLEYBALL CLUB 949 Volleyball Club, celebrating 13 years in San Juan Capistrano, provides summer camps for both boys and girls, ages 9 to 18, at any ability level. The club has won 12 Junior Olympic medals, as well as 6 National Championships at the 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 Junior National Championships. The summer camp’s goal is to teach beginners the fundamentals of the game and to prepare juniors and seniors looking to compete in the NCAA. 949 Volleyball Club promotes sportsmanlike behavior inside and outside of the gym, instills the values of integrity, dedication and hard work, and focuses on having fun! Space is limited; please register early. For more information, contact Justin at 949.374.2890 or visit 949vb.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

AMERICAN BEACH VOLLEYBALL CLUB Sign up now for Spring, Summer and Fall sessions. Spring is for ages 12+ and runs March 13 through May 26. Late sign-ups are OK. Weekly Summer sessions for ages 10-12 (Bombers) and 12–24 (Beach Club) start June 5! Come play with encouraging & experienced coaches. Beach Club plays at Doheny State Beach ALL YEAR LONG. We train coed, beginners through pros, youth through college. Beach volleyball helps all athletes with cross-training to gain strength, speed, and agility. Our wonderful coaches include many experienced D1 athletes. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point. 949.485.0826.

AmericanBeachVolleyballClub.com info@americanbeachvolleyballclub.com

CITY OF SC Summer camps are a time for children to form lifelong memories and friendships while seeking out new adventures and engaging in stimulating activities. San Clemente proudly offers over 100 camps and programs by expert instructors for all interests and abilities.

Save on summer camps with discounted prices through “Early Bird Registration.” Savings fly away April 25th; don’t miss out on great deals. Camps fill up quickly! Register today at san-clemente.org/recreation. 949.429.8797, 949.361.8264, 100 N Calle Seville, San Clemente, CA 92672.

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ELITE SOCCER LEAGUE Elite Soccer League is a South Orange County soccer league that offers Recreational and Club soccer options to players ages 3-18. Our goal is to help kids reach their highest potential in soccer and in life. We understand that, through soccer, we are building more than just great soccer players; we are building the future, confident leaders of our communities.

Come give Elite Soccer League a try! Spring, Summer, Winter, and Fall Programs.

Call/Text 949.468.0086. info@elitesoccerleague.com. elitesoccerleague.com.

thecapistranodispatch.com

SUMMER PROGRAMS

FAIRMONT SUMMER PROGRAMS Locations in Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, North Tustin, and San Juan Capistrano Keep your kids curious, challenged, and connected this summer. Fairmont’s award-winning summer programs offer a full lineup of educational programming. CAMP (Preschool-8th Grade): ACA-accredited camp experience combines education, recreation, and field trips to keep kids engaged all summer! SUMMER SCHOOL (Kindergarten-8th Grade): reading, writing, and math taught by Fairmont teachers and individualized to meet students where they are. SUMMER SCHOOL (High School): Dozens of for-credit, UC-approved courses available.

Enroll by April 16th for 10% off ! 714.234.2757 fairmontschools.com/summer.

SOUTH COAST CONSERVATORY When you enter the dance studio, you can leave your worries at the door and simply enjoy your body’s movement. A dance class is the perfect setting to make new friends, branch out socially and maintain positive relationships. And when you’re in the class, it can be one of the best ways to express yourself and even unlock new ideas to use in your daily life. Start your dance journey this summer at SCC! 27652 Camino Capistrano, Laguna Niguel. 949.367.0099. scconservatory.com/SUMMER.

SCAN FOR INFO

SUMMER SKATE CAMPS PRIVATE SKATE LESSONS BIRTHDAY PARTIES

WESTWIND SAILING KIDCREATE STUDIO Kidcreate Studio is an art studio just for kids.

We specialize in classes, camps and parties for children ages 18 months to 12 years. We offer classes in our studio in Dana Point, as well as onthe-go. Kidcreate is a great way to introduce your child to the wonderful world of art. We provide a positive, self-esteem-building environment and projects that match the developmental needs of children at different ages. Exploring art, feeling free to make some messes, and having fun—that’s what Kidcreate Studio is all about.

34255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Suite 113, Dana Point.

949.370.9509. kidcreate.com/dana-point.

OCEAN INSTITUTE Registration is OPEN for our ‘Sell-out’ Summer Camps! Ocean Institute Camps, located in Dana Point Harbor, will run June 12 – August 11, ages 5-17. Enroll today to give your child a new perspective as they explore, discover, and thrive by diving into summer camp! Our camps are immersive educational journeys designed to promote collaborative learning, exploration, discovery, and empower campers to reach their full potential. Our talented staff, top-notch resources and unique campus ensure a summer experience like no other! Visit: Oceaninstitute.org.

949.496.2274, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

Welcome aboard! Westwind has been providing educational, community, boating programs since 1987: Sail and SUP Camps (spring break & summer), Adaptive sailing, after-school programs and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. Westwind is a 2022 DP Times People’s Choice winner for “Best Camp for Kids” and “Best Harbor Recreation”. And we’re a US Sailing, Community Sailing Center and STEM Hub. Boating scholarships are available. Find us at OC Sailing & Events Center: 34451 Ensenada Pl. DP Harbor. 949.492.3035, westwindsailing.com.

COMMUNITY EVENTS VISIT WWW.ETNIESSKATEPARK.COM OR CALL (949) 916 916-6978

YMCA Plan your perfect summer at the Y today!

Our camps develop character, facilitate new friendships, and create lifelong memories.

Camps provide opportunities for kids to join a community as they learn how to be more independent through engaging in physical, social, and educational activities.

To learn more and register, visit ymcaoc.org/ orange-county-camps! YMCA of Orange County, 13821 Newport Ave #200, Tustin, CA 92780, 714.549.9622, ymcaoc.org.

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thecapistranodispatch.com

Summer School Information

Continuing to Learn MINI MINNOWS (4-6 YEARS OLD) 9am - 12pm or 1 pm-4pm :=:=.:=-� ..::Different themed activities, -::.:;-;;= crafts and games each day! Snacks are included.

By Collin Breaux

School’s out for summer…but not always.

Summer school is available for Capistrano Unified School District students who need to retake classes or want to attend for other reasons.

Registration is open to all high school students through May 25. Students are advised to contact their school counselor about registering.

BEACH SAFARI (6-9 YEARS OLD) 9am-4pm Tidepool Walks, Beach Games, Crafts, Swimming, Whale Watching on a 60-foot Catamaran, BBQ and so much more!

H2O ADVENTURE CAMP (9-13 YEARS OLD) 9am-4pm Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Kayaking, Sailing, Rowing, Whale Watching on a 60-foot Catamaran, Swimming, Games, Lunch provided and so much more!!

Check out our website for more details!

KG8eachCamps.com I (949) 842-5211 --. -

..

summer ART CAMPS INSPIRE YOUR YOUNG ARTIST AT KIDCREATE! Kidcreate Studio’s summer art camps allow children to explore art and creativity in an environment full of fun.

CITY RECREATION DEPARTMENTS OFFER SUMMER CLASSES

By Breeana Greenberg

F

rom Ballet Folklorico, filmmaking and beginner guitar classes to “bionerds” and surfing camp, local city recreation departments offer a wide variety of camps and classes for children and families to enjoy throughout the summer.

Dana Point The summer issue of the City of Dana Point’s Lookout Community News and Recreation Guide will be available beginning Friday, May 5 at danapoint.org/recreation. Registration for summer classes will open on Monday, May 8 at 7:30 a.m. A wide variety of recreation programs and classes for all ages are offered through the Dana Point recreation department including summer youth camps.

l PAINTING

l DRAWING l CLAY

l AND MORE!

San Clemente kidcreate.com/dana-point (949) 545 - 7091 l

art classes l birthday parties l l mobile studio l

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

34255 Pacific Coast Hwy #113 Dana Point, CA 92629

The summer session will be from June 14 to July 18, Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., according to CUSD. Classes will not be held on July 4.

While students will do the majority of schoolwork online from home, taking tests in person is required. An online orientation assignment is mandatory by June 30, CUSD’s summer program overview said.

In-person school services will be held at Capistrano Valley High School in Mission Viejo at 26301 Via Escolar.

Acceleration and remediation courses will be offered. Teachers will provide tutoring and labs.

“Teachers are on campus at Capistrano Valley High School Mondays-Thursdays from 8:30-1:30 p.m. to assist students with anything they may need and for required in-person testing,” CUSD’s overview said. “Students that prefer to work on campus are welcome to come to class anytime during the bell schedule.”

Visit capousd.org for more information.

Summer Camp registration is open in San Clemente, with Early Bird discounts open until April 25. Those interested in registering online for a summer camp will need to create an account and visit san-clemente.org/ recreation or visit the Community Center to register in-person.

Page 24

San Clemente’s recreation department offers a variety of classes and camps during the summer such as the Art Exploration Summer Camp at Pico Park, beginning guitar and ukulele, “Bionerds” science camp, surfing camps, filmmaking, sports, dance, active adventure camps, preschool camps and much more.

Some camps do sell out, so staff recommends families register as soon as possible.

San Juan Capistrano San Juan Capistrano’s Community Services Department offers a variety of classes that keep kids active over the summer break including Ballet Folklorico classes for kids from 5 to 18 and other athletic programs.

The spring class flyer detailing class offerings will be posted on the city’s website the week of March 27, with the summer flyer available the week of May 15. Registration for San Juan Capistrano’s recreation programs is available over the phone 24 hours a day by calling 949.493.5911 or residents can visit the community services department in person to register.

The community service department advises to register early or at least 1 week prior to the class starting date.

thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

Page 25

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SUMMER FUN! FIND YOUR PERFECT Y CAMP! SPECIALTY CAMPS

DAY CAMP Join us for an endless summer of fun!

If you are looking for a place for your child to learn something new or practice what they love, enroll today! They will make new friends while participating in hiking, science, music, sports, cooking, crafts, nature awareness, and more!

Our 5-day-a-week day camp will offer a full summer of expeditions including: Sports • Outdoor Activities • STEAM Activities • Field Trips • Character Development • Community Service Projects & More!

CAMP E.L.K.

CAMP OAKES Sleepaway Camp July 8-15

3 Week-Long Options from July 16-Aug. 4th

Pack your bags for a week of fun and food themed excitement at Camp Oakes! Have fun with friends while exploring nature and experiencing adventures that will surely create memories to last a lifetime.

ELEVATE YOURSELF at Camp E.L.K. this summer!

Join us in the Angeles National Forest for a week of adventure, fun outdoor activities, campfires, friendship, memories and more!

Sleepaway Camp

REGISTER TODAY! Visit ymcaoc.org/orange-county-camps or scan the code to learn more!

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

Page 26

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CLASSIFIEDS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com HELP WANTED

SAN CLEMENTE PERIODONTICS & IMPLANTS IS HIRING! Two open positions: RDA and Dental Assistant. Call 949-361-4867 for more details.

Do you want to reach 24,150+ people in the San Juan Capistrano + the Rancho Mission Viejo area? Then you need to be in The Capistrano Dispatch. Call us today!

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

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

Contact Debra at 949.388.7700 ext. 104

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

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24- April 13, 2023

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

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

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

Page 27

thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | Book Talk

by Dan De Neve

‘Blink’ B

link by Malcolm Gladwell is the latest title read by the Seaside Book Group at the Dana Point Library. Gladwell’s theme throughout the book is that we make spontaneous decisions, in the blink of an eye, that aren’t as simple as they appear to be.

He describes several situations in which people make split-second decisions that make sense, even though, at first glance, the decision seems illogical, and the reasoning is nonsensical or goes against conventional thinking.

Using numerous case studies, Gladwell argues for what is called thin-slicing, which is the ability to find patterns in events based on narrow windows, or thin slices, of experience. Do not confuse or assume this is the

GUEST OPINION | A Little Bit About San Juan by Ben Dixon

Behind the Scenes of the Swallows Day Parade

I

hadn’t lived in San Juan Capistrano very long before I attended my first Swallows Day Parade. I especially enjoyed the horses and wagons, as it reminded me of my days growing up on the family cattle ranch outside Huntsville, Texas, which was established in 1891.

I rode and broke most of the horses that supported our cattle operations in those days. The method of breaking horses has changed a lot since the 1890s. The old method was “snubbing” a horse up to a center pole in the corral, climbing on, and away you went. Today’s trainers gentle a horse with ground management before they ever step on.

My parents put me in 4H, where I learned the proper way to care for horses. The competition in 4H was so much fun, and that experience led me to compete in high school and college rodeos.

My love for horses came with me from Texas to California in 1982. After a career with Pfizer Animal Health, working with equine veterinarians in Central and Southern California, I was looking for opportunities to get involved with the community.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24- April 13, 2023

same as intuition or a gut feeling, although in a few of the case studies, it seems there may be some of one or both.

Gladwell covers many aspects of life including autism, speed dating, tennis, gambling, automobile sales, malpractice lawsuits, military gaming, classical music auditions, and why we like tall, male CEOs. In one particular study, a doctor can tell within five minutes of listening to a couple if they will still be married after 15 years, with 95% accuracy.

What makes this book compelling isn’t just the reality of making good decisions despite thinking without thinking, but that this skill can be learned over time. Gladwell also points out that quick judgments are better than what is commonly referred to as paralysis by analysis, which in our day of information overload happens too often.

This was especially true of doctors, who Gladwell shows in one case study overanalyzed heart attack patients, to everyone’s detriment.

One fascinating area that Gladwell

I researched and learned what a great organization the Fiesta Association is.

The Fiesta Association puts on the Swallows Day Parade, the largest annual event in San Juan Capistrano and the largest non-motorized parade in the U.S. With a solid background in horses, in A LITTLE BIT ABOUT 2008, I joined and SAN JUAN volunteered to work

BY BEN DIXON in the equine staging. This area is where all horse entries gather before the parade begins and are funneled into the parade route. I also served as parade chairman for five years, from 2009 to 2013.

The Swallows Day Parade is the largest adjudicated event in the state of California. All equine entries are judged by the CSHA (California Show Horse Association) in various categories, on Buckheim Field, and along the parade route. Awards are presented after the parade in an exciting ceremony, with trophies, plaques, and commemorative belt buckles.

The USMC (United States Marine Corp.) Mounted Color Guard, from Barstow, presents the colors to open the parade. They are the same group that opens the Tournament of Roses Parade.

This year, my role will be Sheriff of the Fiesta Association’s Mounted Posse. We will be presented as the lead entry in the parade, representing the thousands of hours our members put in each year to present a successful parade. As lead entry, it is an adrenaline rush to turn the corner and have 50,000 to 70,000 people watching, cheering, and clapping.

delves into is the lockbox in our mind, the unconscious. What makes this interesting is that some individuals, no matter how they try, cannot explain how they arrive at the conclusions they draw.

Blink is the second book by Gladwell that the group has read, the first being Talking to Strangers. Blink is fast-paced and despite the subject matter, easy to comprehend. As with the first book the group read, I highly recommend Blink.

The Seaside Book Group meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Dana Point Library. For more information, please call 949.496.5517. CD Dan De Neve is a longtime employee of the Orange County Public Library. He currently works at the Dana Point Library as the Adult Services Librarian. He is an avid reader of history, biographies and sports.

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.

I see families and citizens of San Juan Capistrano who have viewed the parade for generations in the same location, year after year. Many will set up chairs the night before to secure their spot.

One of my great accomplishments came in 2014, when I connected with Jim Allen and former Mayor Wyatt Hart.

They invited me to become a member of the El Viaje De Portola western riding group.

This was right down my alley, as it further exposed me to horses and a great group of people who love the cowboy way. The annual Portola rodeo has given me a chance to practice my skills in sorting and team roping. What I especially like about the Portolas are the many charitable causes we support in the community.

In conclusion, I agree with what President Reagan said: “The outside of a horse is good for the inside of a person.”

Horses have taught me a lot about patience, as each horse I ever rode has had a unique personality.

I would encourage anyone who wants to enter the horse world to start at the many stables in San Juan Capistrano and join an organization like the Fiesta Association or the San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition to get started.

I can promise you that it will bring great pleasure and fun to your life. CD Ben Dixon is a longtime equestrian and member of the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association.

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 28

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Collin Breaux • 949.388.7700, x109 cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com 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 CEO/FOUNDER Norb Garrett

Advertising Sales Debra Wells (CD)

EDITORIAL Managing Editor Shawn Raymundo

ART + DESIGN Special Projects Art Director Jasmine Smith

City Editor, Capo Dispatch Collin Breaux City Reporter, DP Times Breeana Greenberg City Reporter, SC Times C. Jayden Smith Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh Digital Producer Evan Lancaster Columnists Tom Blake Special Projects Editor Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes (SC + DP)

Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex Advertising Design Marc Hostetter OPERATIONS General Manager Alyssa Garrett Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares Local Distribution Tim Trent FINANCE Accounting & Finance Manager Tricia Zines CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 21, Issue 6. 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 2023. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPO DISPATCH

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SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | Citizens’ Climate Education by Larry Kramer

GOING ELECTRIC T

hanks to Congress, money will be available to help you purchase electrical devices, from cars to heat pumps to stoves.

One source is already available: tax credits that will apply when you submit your 2023 taxes. The second source, rebates, should be available when you purchase equipment in early 2024.

Why should you want to make changes? It might save you money CITIZENS’ CLIMATE in the long run, it EDUCATION

BY LARRY KRAMER may improve your home air quality, and it is good for the environment. There will be both rebates and tax credits to cover most

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24- April 13, 2023

Photo: Courtesy of yelantsevv/Adobe Stock

electrical devices.

However, new and used purchases of electric vehicles and rooftop solar installations are only available through tax rebates.

Now is the time to investigate and plan. For example, suppose you are considering a heat pump hot water heater to replace your existing gas system that’s a few years old. You rarely know when one is going to fail.

Once it fails, you want a replacement

as soon as possible. Most families do not like to bathe in cold water. Therefore, research what is available now and what would be available in the future.

Do you need additional wiring? Will your electric panel support the additional load? Who are the available manufacturers and installers? If it fails and you replace it, what will be the tax credit?

What are the rebates, if you wait that long? Which one is better for you—tax credit or rebate?

Page 29

When you answer these questions, then you will be ready to make the change when there is a systems failure.

These answers can be easily obtained through research.

Some examples of tax credits include new electric vehicle ($7,500); used electric vehicle ($4,000); rooftop solar (30% of cost); and weatherization ($1,200).

For new vehicles, determining eligibility can be tricky. It depends on where the car and battery are made and assembled.

Some examples of efficiency rebates include electric stove ($840); electric wiring ($2,500); heat pump air conditioner and heater ($8,000). Note again, rebates are not available until early next year.

There are some income restrictions, but they are still quite generous. Do not trust my numbers; do your homework.

To see what is available, paste the following in your browser: cclusa.org. Remember, these are not one-year programs but extend for many years.

Larry Kramer is a 22-year resident of San Juan Capistrano. He is a former mayor and submarine Navy captain. 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.

thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

6-9 p.m. Craft your own wood sign, plank tray or photo frame with this fun DIY workshop. Customize your project with designer paints and non-toxic colors. Participants can register online beforehand. AR Workshop San Juan Capistrano, 31107 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite B2, San Juan Capistrano. 949.482.1362. arworkshop.com.

The List

SATURDAY | 01

What’s going on in and around town this week

COMPOST GIVEAWAY 8 a.m. - noon. OC Waste and Recycling is hosting this giveaway while supplies last. Proof of Orange County residency is required, and residents should bring a shovel and container or bag to fill. Prima Deschecha Landfill, 32250 Avenida La Pata, San Juan Capistrano. oclandfills.com.

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Get a curated list of the weekend’s best events sent straight to your inbox every Friday!

Sign up for The Weekender at thecapistranodispatch.com/weekender

FRIDAY | 24 HOOS’GOW DAY 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Better wear your Western duds this day—otherwise, you might end up in “jail”! This annual Fiesta de las Golondrinas tradition gives a taste of the Wild West. Costumed San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association members are stationed throughout town in search of city slickers who aren’t wearing at least some Western attire. You may get “arrested,” all in fun. To bail out of the old-time jail cell, try to talk your way out or purchase a Fiesta souvenir, with proceeds helping to defray costs of the annual Swallows Day Parade. San Juan Capistrano. swallowsparade.com.

FROG JUMPING CONTEST 4-6 p.m. The Fiesta Association’s annual frog jumping contest is a family-friendly time for entertainment and prizes before the Swallows Day Parade. Bring the kids out to see the namesake amphibians leap around. You might even see “Mark Twain” make an appearance.

Los Rios Park, 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano. swallowsparade.com.

SATURDAY | 25 SWALLOWS DAY CELEBRATION AT EL ADOBE DE CAPISTRANO Noon-7 p.m. Enjoy food, music, and drinks at one of San Juan Capistrano’s signature restaurants during the big day. Grand Junction Band, DJ Tones, and Marie Kelly will be on hand to provide musical entertainment. There will also The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

Editor’s Pick Photo: Shawn Raymundo

SATURDAY | 25 SWALLOWS DAY PARADE 11 a.m. Celebrate the return of the swallows to San Juan Capistrano with the 63rd annual Swallows Day Parade. Horses are back in the parade for the first time since 2019. Community groups will be riding and walking in the parade. Keep an eye out for local equestrian Robert Ridland, who is this year’s grand marshal. The Mercado Street Faire will take place just off the main parade route, if you want to celebrate in a different way. Downtown San Juan Capistrano. swallowsparade.com. be mariachi music on the front patio.

Wristbands for entry into the palenque and garden will be sold the day of the event for $10. The event is for people 21 years of age or older. El Adobe de Capistrano, 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. eladobedecapistrano.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT SAN JUAN HILLS GOLF CLUB 4-7 p.m. Gary Calvaneso 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.

POST-SWALLOWS PARADE CONCERT 5 p.m. The fun won’t stop after the Swallows Day Parade. Head over to The OutPost to continue the celebration with a country music show. Granger Smith, Earl Dibbles Jr., and Lauren Alaina will perform. Doors open at 4 p.m. General admission tickets are $45. VIP tickets are $95. Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, 30753 Avenida La Pata, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuanoutpost.com.

SUNDAY | 26 LIVE MUSIC AT TREVOR’S 11 a.m. Local singer-songwriter Karly Moreno will perform. Enjoy the entertainment on the outdoor patio while you chow down on food and sip drinks. Trevor’s at the Tracks, 26701

Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.9593. trevorsatthetracks.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT PADDY’S 6-9 p.m. Come listen to some live music and dance after enjoying fish and chips and a pint. 24K Country will perform. Paddy’s Station, 26701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.3400. paddysstation.com.

CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE 7 p.m. Enjoy some rollicking sounds over dinner at this intimate and popular South Orange County venue. Reggae band Big Mountain will perform. Tickets are $28.

Doors open at 5 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

MONDAY | 27 BRIDGE GAME 12:30 p.m. The South Orange County Bridge Club hosts bridge games, Monday through Saturday. The club is a nonprofit owned by the members and welcomes people to use their minds and develop new friendships. They also offer classes for bridge players of different levels.

31461 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite 205, San Juan Capistrano. galesenter@cox.net.

FRIDAY | 31 ‘FRI-YAY FUN’ WOOD WORKSHOP Page 30

SPRING ‘EGGSTRAVAGANZA’ 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. The City of San Juan Capistrano is hosting this annual event for kids ages 2-12. There will be egg hunts, face painting, a puppet show, crafts, games, and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. The event is free. Los Rios Park, 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

SUNDAY | 02 LIVE THEATER AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE 2 p.m. Watch a live performance of the hospital-set comedy It Runs in the Family at San Juan Capistrano’s local theater. Renditions will be held through April 16. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

FRIDAY | 07 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. f armakisfarms.com.

SATURDAY | 08 STRAWBERRY U-PICK 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Ecology Center is providing a chance to pick fresh berries.

While baskets will be provided, participants are also welcome to bring their own. After you finish collecting a harvest, head over to the Farm Stand to pay for what you picked. Cost to attend is $9.

The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.443.4223. theecologycenter.org. thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

AT THE MOVIES

‘65’ Is a Snore More Than a Roar

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

his late winter/early spring period of the year is always my least favorite for new movies, because it’s traditionally when the studios just dump most of their flops.

With Scott Beck and Bryan Woods’ 65, I thought, surely male lead Adam Driver and some CG dinosaurs could entertainingly make up a most likely predictable script. But, sadly, I couldn’t even be met with that simple of a request.

Unlike Frances O’Connor’s Emily and Jamie Dack’s Palm Trees and Power Lines, which both recently frustrated me with narrative and direction decisions, 65 does the opposite and plays it so safe, it’s completely boring.

Rather than set it a million years into the future, we go back 65 million years ago, “in a galaxy far, far away …” The protagonist, Commander Mills (Driver), is piloting a spaceship

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24- April 13, 2023

Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures

traveling from his fictional planet to bring a group of passengers to another planet, so Mills can afford a medical procedure for his

daughter, Nevine (Chloe Coleman).

But mid-flight, a ship hits an asteroid and crash-lands onto pre-historic planet Earth,

Page 31

killing all the passengers except for Mills and a little girl named Koa (Ariana Greenblatt).

As you can see from the ads, 65 quickly turns into Driver and Greenblatt versus wild dinosaurs and an ominously looming meteor shower. In many ways, this is the inverse of Dan Trachtenberg’s Prey from last year. But while Prey was a basic Predator prequel executed well technically, 65 feels like everyone just signed on for a quick paycheck.

There is very little dialogue for multiple scenes of the sci-fi journey, similar to Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968). But at least that classic is visually saying something philosophical through science fiction and filmmaking.

65 is just a guy and a girl stuck on ancient Earth with no resources. Many times, we’re reminded of other famous movies that were more memorable.

The action sequences in 65 don’t bring anything new to the blockbuster formula, and the forgettable characters with the barely-there plot make you need to fight from dozing off.

The audience’s lack of interest might distract from some of the convenient plot armor going on, too.

Driver is one of the most interesting actors out there in cinema and has a lot of variety with his movie choices, so he will be fine in the long run. But I’m not sure what Beck and Woods’ follow-up to their first big bomb is going to be. CD

thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

GUEST OPINION | On Life and Love by Tom Blake

‘My Money Is on The Chair’—Six Words Bring Love to a Senior Couple

F

inding a compatible mate in one’s senior years is difficult.

It can happen when people get out of the house, walk, and intermingle with others. Charlotte, a Dana Point woman, shared her senior-finding-love story.

Charlotte wrote, “In 2013, I was 69 and content with my life as a single woman.

I had been walking for 20 years in Dana Point Harbor six days a week.

“One day, while walking on Dana Point Island, I saw a man flailing around trying to collapse a blue-colored beach chair. He looked funny and flustered. I started laughing and called out to him, ‘My money is on the chair!’

“He asked me to show him how it was done. No problem, except I couldn’t collapse it, either. We stood there laughing until a lady saw us from her car and mercifully showed us how to collapse it. He said his name was Phillip.

“I knew on that first day that something special had just happened, that he was the one for me even though he lived in England and was a recent widower. I figured, ‘Just my luck, no chance whatsoever.’ Later, I told four friends and my sister that I had met the one.

“Phillip was visiting his son in Trabuco Canyon for Christmas. He had lost his wife of 60 years six months before, so I knew he was dealing with that.”

They waved goodbye. No contact information had been exchanged.

Charlotte continued, “I KNEW I was going to see him again. I made sure to

look fabulous the next day, and there he was at the same location. I smiled upon seeing him. We talked for two hours.

Phillip said he was going home soon, so we exchanged email addresses.

“We started corresponding. A month later, he said he was coming back ON LIFE AND LOVE to the U.S. I was very

BY TOM BLAKE happy about that.

“I told him how much I missed him and that I loved him. He asked how I could love him; I said I didn’t know, but knew I did.

“Phillip has three children, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

His children had no problem when he told them about me. All they said was, ‘Dad, we want you to be happy.’”

Charlotte commented on their ages.

“Phillip was 82 at the time, 13 years older,” she said. “He was reluctant at first to share that info with me. He did a week later. I couldn’t have cared less; I was totally hooked by that time. He’s a very vital man, mentally and physically.

“He seemed ageless, sharp as a tack, in good shape, and the best part is he made me laugh a lot, and that’s the cherry on top for me; we laugh every day. His sense of humor was all that mattered.

“He moved in with me within a month after his return to the States.

Just four months after we met. He was concerned that it had only been eight months since his wife had passed. I was

Photo: Courtesy of Harley Lobo

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo depicts Frances Clark in San Juan Capistrano in the early 1900s.

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.

sensitive to that issue, too, but, regardless, I just laid it all out there; I truly loved him and told him so again.

“We both knew it was meant to be. It’s been nine years now, and we are as happy as two clams. I say to single seniors, don’t wait around, jump in and swim; you will enjoy the water.

“Had he not been struggling with the blue chair, I would have walked right by and missed the love of my life. We live in

Sudoku

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.

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

Turtle

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 The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

Dana Point. CD 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.

Page 32

This pretty girl is Turtle, a Greyhound/ Labrador mix with a bubbly personality.

Only 1 year old, Turtle is a happy pup who just loves to run and play. Her favorite game is probably fetch with a ball, but she wouldn’t turn her nose up at a nice hike, either. Turtle is looking for an active adopter and a yard where she can run to her heart’s content.

If you are interested in adopting Turtle, please visit petprojectfoundation.org.

Completed adoption forms can be emailed to animalservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

Fiesta Grandé Hosts Pre-Parade Celebration TEXT & PHOTOS BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Even as the rain came down outside, inside at Swallow’s Inn, people got to dancing and having a good time.

The San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association hosted the Fiesta Grandé on Wednesday, March 22.

The event is part of the Fiesta de las Golondrinas, which recognizes the return of the swallows to San Juan. As with other Fiesta events, members of the Fiesta Association and wider community came decked out in their best Western clothing to celebrate San Juan’s culture and heritage.

The James Kelly Band provided live country music. The Fiesta de las Golondrinas will culminate with the Swallows Day Parade in Downtown San Juan on Saturday, March 25.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

Page 33

thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Local Coaches Oppose Proposed State Ban on Youth Tackle Football

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

an Clemente, San Juan Hills and Capistrano Valley Christian are among at least 112 California high school football programs that have marked themselves against a proposed California State Assembly bill that would ban tackle football for children under 12 years old.

AB 734, introduced by State Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), claims it would “protect young athletes from being subjected to brain injury and trauma associated with playing tackle football.”

The bill, which was first read on Feb. 13, referred to committee on Feb. 23 and will be heard by that committee in April, cites a Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that the risk for concussion and head injuries increases with the number of head impacts, and that tackle football athletes between the ages of 6-14 experience 15 times more head impacts in a practice or game than they do in flag football.

“Flag football is an alternative that is safer for youth and can still give them the opportunity to learn the skills to be successful at tackle football later in life,” McCarty said in a release. “The 2023 NFL Pro Bowl was a flag football game for the safety of the players. Why can’t we have that for our youth? AB 734 will help protect kids and nurture their brain development, and not put them in a situation that’s proven to cause irreparable harm.”

This is not McCarty’s first attempt at this legislation.

In 2018, McCarty co-sponsored AB 2108, labeled as the “Safe Football Act,” which originally called for a ban before high school and settled down to the same 12-yearold age limit as this year’s bill. However, the 2018 bill was pulled before it reached a committee vote due to lack of support.

In 2019, the state did pass the California Youth Football Act, which instituted a set of safety standards for youth tackle football, including proper training and certification for coaches and restrictions on the number of full-contact practice sessions.

Last year, AB 1348, which would have required a commission on Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and youth football “to investigate the risks of brain injury associated with participation in youth tackle football,” was pushed through the State Assembly.

However, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed the bill.

“The effectiveness of these recently implemented safety measures (from the California Youth Football Act, which took effect in January of 2021) has not been sufficiently assessed,” Newsom said in a September 2022 release on the veto. “More research is needed to better understand current safety measures and the risks. Furthermore, this bill would require more than $2 million to implement, which was not accounted for in the budget.”

San Clemente High School football coach Jaime Ortiz, whose oldest son just completed Pop Warner football and has a younger son playing tackle football, opposed the legislation and said it should come down to a decision by parents.

“There are multiple levels of football out there, and there are options for finding what’s right for your child,” Ortiz said. “With my son, he played two years of tackle, The Capistrano Dispatch March 24-April 13, 2023

A proposed state bill would ban tackle football for children under 12 years old, in an effort to curb head injuries and their long-term effects. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

then a year of flag and then went back to pads. … They (my sons) get it. My son going through Pop Warner, I saw a difference in a maturity level in playing a team sport.

We do what we feel is best for the family.”

San Juan Hills High School football coach Rob Frith, who also has a son in youth tackle football, echoed Ortiz’s sentiment and praised the specific lessons that kids would learn in tackle football over flag football or any other sport.

“When I look at the positives of a sport like youth tackle football and compare that to the long-term risk,” Frith said, “I feel that, for myself, the positive experiences, what they learn about punctuality, toughness, grit, all these things are taught in tackle football at an age where cognitive development is important.”

“I’ve been around a lot of sports,” Frith continued, “but there’s no other sport where the kids are going to learn that they’re going to be OK. You’re going to battle through when you’re uncomfortable. The good coaches teach them they’re going to be OK or they have a little more to give. This will pass. I’m going to get through this.

It develops the resilience.”

Frith also emphasized the coaching aspect for youth football in drilling down proper tackling technique for young players, mentioning that his son has tackled players nearly 80 pounds heavier without fear of injury because he’s been taught how to do so safely. Frith also noted that it can be important to learn safe tackling techniques at the youth level, because “the speed and strength will only become greater” as players move through the ranks.

Page 34

One of the major proponents of AB 734 and research on concussions and CTE in athletes is Chris Nowinski, co-founder and CEO of the Concussion Legacy Foundation and a former Harvard football player and professional wrestler. Nowinksi also earned a Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience from Boston University in 2017.

“It’s time to protect our young children from a harm they cannot understand,” Nowinski said in McCarty’s release on AB 734. “To protect them, we don’t let children smoke, drink, or use indoor tanning beds. Why would we let 8-year-olds participate in an activity that we now know can give them a brain disease?”

Nowinski turned harder onto the parents of youth football in a radio interview on Monday, March 13.

“If I was advising you as a parent, I wouldn’t put my kid in tackle high school (football),” Nowinski told Vicki Gonzalez of Capital Public Radio. “Football is a CTE-creating machine. … Once you have testosterone and you want to hit people, that’s fine, but for that pre-testosterone group, that pre-puberty group, this is just putting kids in costumes. This is entertainment for the parents.”

On that same radio program on Monday, Ron White of the California Youth Football Alliance implored California State Assemblymembers to vote down the bill.

“This is one of the most misguided, out-of-touch pieces of legislation we’ve seen,” White told Gonzalez.“This is what appears to be a crusade by a single man to try to put an end to an amazing sport for youth athletes. If you follow the science, (McCarty’s claims) just don’t add up. At its best, it’s anecdotal, and it becomes (McCarty’s) crusade.” CD thecapistranodispatch.com

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