November 26, 2021

NOVEMBER 26-DECEMBER 9, 2021 | VOLUME 19, ISSUE 22

INSIDE: Special Section

A Tale of Two Cities

Ordinances to Crack Down on Illicit Massage Parlors Have Varying Outcomes in San Clemente, San Juan E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 3

The cities of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano have seen different outcomes since enacting similar ordinances to address illicit massage parlors.

Photos: Collin Breaux and Courtesy of City of San Clemente

thecapistranodispatch.com

Riding Park to Host Show Jumping Qualifier

Ranch Camp Amenity Under Construction

Editor’s Pick: Grand Opening for Putuidem Village

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 7

EYE ON RMV/PAGE 9

GETTING OUT/PAGE 19

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26–December 9, 2021

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thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

What’s Up With...

TOP NEWS SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

A Tale of Two Cities: Ordinances to Tamp Down on Illicit Massage Parlors Show Varying Outcomes in San Clemente, San Juan

BY COLLIN BREAUX AND SHAWN RAYMUNDO

San Juan Capistrano Councilmember Howard Hart first became aware of the pervasive issue of human trafficking when he was an officer in the Navy.

To ensure that military personnel at home and abroad were not contributing to the problem, the Department of Defense began an education campaign several years ago—and as Hart learned more about it, he was taken aback by the “vast scope of the problem.”

“When I began considering a run for city council a couple of years ago, human trafficking was near the top of the list of things I hoped to address,” Hart said. “The problem was that I was stymied regarding ways that local governments could play a role in addressing the problem.”

In one of his first acts after getting elected to the council in the November 2020 election, Hart introduced revised regulations for massage parlors in San Juan Capistrano that strengthen the town’s ability to shut down parlors if they are reported to host unlawful activity—particularly illicit sexual activity.

Since the effective date of the amended ordinance on July 15, the licenses of two massage establishments (SJC Massage on Rancho Viejo Road and Diamond Holistic Massage on Ortega Highway) have been revoked.

“At each of the two sites, an establishment employee attempted to engage in sexual conduct with an undercover officer, which is prohibited under the city’s massage ordinance,” said Ken Al-Imam, San Juan’s chief financial officer, who worked closely with city officials and the i-5 Freedom Network in establishing the updated regulations.

I-5 Freedom is a San Clemente-based nonprofit advocacy organization that aims to raise awareness about and stop human trafficking.

A hearing for a third site (Le Spa on Camino Capistrano), where allegations of similar activity with an undercover officer were reported, was initially scheduled for Nov. 10 but was continued to Dec. 2 to accommodate the schedule of the business’s legal counsel.

While San Juan has had some success in tamping down on illicit activity, progress appears to be slower in San Clemente, where its councilmembers passed

a similar ordinance to strengthen local laws in August 2020.

Based on an Oct. 25 public-records request for information on sites in San Clemente that have closed as a result of the ordinance, only one massage business, Harmony Spa on Camino Mira Costa, had its license revoked last year.

That revocation, however, occurred in February 2020, months before the council passed the ordinance.

According to the city’s records it provided to San Clemente Times, Harmony Spa had continued to operate into early March, prompting site inspections from code compliance officers. The business also had been cited for reportedly violating license and tax payment requirements.

Except for providing the documents on Nov. 18, San Clemente’s city management did not respond to multiple interview requests for this story.

Asked whether there were key differences between San Clemente’s and San Juan’s ordinances that have led to different outcomes, i-5 Freedom Network Founder and Director Brenda Wells said that while San Juan’s is a bit more robust, the differences are not necessarily the issue.

“It’s not the differences in the ordinance, although they do have a more robust ordinance. It’s who’s willing to act on it, that’s the primary difference,” said Wells, who had, through her nonprofit, implored the City of San Clemente to strengthen its ordinance on massage parlors since 2017.

Acknowledging that while San Clemente Mayor Pro Tem Gene James and fellow Councilmember Chris Duncan had previously supported efforts to tackle human trafficking, San Clemente hasn’t had a notable champion on the issue, like San Juan has had with Hart.

It’ll take city leadership, she later added, to drive the issue and mobilize community support.

“You need to have people willing to be proactive like city leaders,” Wells said.

Both San Clemente’s and San Juan’s ordinances are largely the same, as they require businesses to have only one customer entrance in a visible and welllit location, prohibit locks for massage

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

The cities of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano have seen different outcomes since enacting similar ordinances to address illicit massage parlors. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

rooms, and give police services the authority on reviewing applications and license renewals.

One of the key provisions of the two ordinances was the involvement of the owners of commercial properties who lease space to massage parlors, making them more responsible for their tenants.

If a massage parlor is found to be in violation of the city’s code, prompting a revocation of the business license, a landlord is prohibited from renting the same space to another massage business—for two years in San Clemente, and for five years in San Juan.

“Under the new ordinance, if a massage license is revoked, the property owner is prohibited from allowing another massage establishment to open anywhere on that property for five years from the date of massage license revocation,” Al-Imam explained.

That aspect sets a “strong incentive” for landlords to be “keenly aware” of the conduct of their prospective massage tenants, Hart said.

Hart said he got in touch with Wells through his late brother, Bill Hart, who had made his own run for the San Clemente council but was not elected.

“Brenda told me about the work her group was doing educating local hotel staff on the problem, and then mentioned how she had been working with the San Clemente Planning Commission on refining their massage parlor ordinances to make it harder for the traffickers to operate there,” Hart said.

“Brenda educated me on how nearly all illicit massage parlors engage in human trafficking, and that most of those in California are run by Asian organized crime syndicates.”

Hart gradually educated people about the victimization of parlor workers while Page 3

campaigning for the San Juan council, and in time introduced plans for the new ordinance.

“Once elected, I informed (San Juan) City Manager Ben Siegel that my first council action item would be to tackle this issue. Ben was onboard immediately, and the city staff became a true partner in this endeavor,” Hart said.

“In the meantime,” Hart continued, “I was introduced to Emily, a brave American survivor of human trafficking, who was victimized over a several-month period while she was a student at an Orange County university. When I introduced a council action item earlier this year, Brenda and Emily both provided important context to my colleagues.”

The city’s code enforcement staff has worked closely with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department in carrying out the new ordinance.

Wells this week praised that cooperation between the City of San Juan Capistrano and OCSD, stating that “the effectiveness of the ordinance comes down to a coordinated response to all of those entities.”

According to Wells, law enforcement utilizes certain websites designed solely to let clients, traditionally referred to as “Johns,” know where they can get an erotic massage. Rub Maps, which relies on paid users to leave reviews, is one site that investigators largely use.

“They consider that as evidence, so that’s enough to initiate an investigation,” Wells said. “What they don’t do is pursue if the city won’t stand behind their efforts.”

Leading up to the San Clemente City Council’s passage of the ordinance last year, a San Clemente Times cover story found that nine establishments were (Cont. on page 4) thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

San Clemente Council to Weigh Proposal on Annexing Neighboring RMV Community

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

Santa Margarita Water District Deputy General Manager Don Bunts talks during a reception honoring the transfer of San Juan Capistrano’s water utilities on Monday, Nov. 15. Photo: Collin Breaux

City, Water District Celebrate Utility Annexation

BY COLLIN BREAUX

The City of San Juan Capistrano is officially out of the water business—a milestone recognized with a celebration at city hall on Monday, Nov. 15.

The city’s water utilities have now been annexed into Santa Margarita Water District, a process that was years in the making. The city council and SMWD have separately approved the agreement, which was additionally given the thumbs up by the Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission in August—one of the last steps toward solidifying the annexation.

Mayor John Taylor thanked representatives from the city, SMWD, and LAFCO for their guidance, expertise, and support involved with the transfer.

“When the city council began to contemplate the idea of transferring the city’s water utility to another agency many years ago, the goal was simple— ensure the stability and reliability of essential water service to all our customers in the community,” Taylor said. “In selecting Santa Margarita Water District, we have certainly met and exceeded this goal. Management of utilities by a specialized water agency will undoubtedly enhance efficiencies and economies of scale for the city’s customers, and in turn moderate rate increases in the future.”

Reasons previously cited by city officials for San Juan no longer being a water provider include the city not having

enough capability to adequately do so and expected higher-rate increases than under SMWD. SMWD has committed to $25 million in system improvement and optimization investments at the city hall groundwater recovery plant, Taylor said.

Specific ongoing SMWD projects include upgrades to remote control capabilities for facility monitoring (which reduces manpower and increases cost-effectiveness), implementing a water-use efficiency program, and expanding recycled water use within the city.

“We’d like to optimize (the groundwater recovery plant at city hall), and it’s not that this facility hasn’t been run well,” SMWD Deputy General Manager Don Bunts said. “By bringing additional resources to bear, we hope to help double the capacity of this plant of what it’s running right now—which will help reduce the cost per acre foot and ultimately benefit all the citizens of the city, as well as existing customers for Santa Margarita Water District.”

SMWD officials presented Taylor a bell to ring in the moment. Representatives from the offices of Congressman Mike Levin, State Rep. Laurie Davies, and Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett—who sits on the LAFCO board—were also on hand to issue proclamations recognizing the transfer and celebrating the occasion.

Davies said the transfer will benefit both agencies, given San Juan can now focus on important city issues such as public safety and infrastructure.

“Now, you’re going to have a little weight off your shoulder as well, so you’ve got a little bit more time on your hands,” Davies said. “You couldn’t ask for a better water district to be managing and representing you.”

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

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A proposal by San Clemente Mayor Pro Tem Gene James looks to have the City of San Clemente incorporate a portion of Rancho Mission Viejo (RMV), where roughly 2,400 new homes are planned to be built in the coming decade.

The city council was expected in its Nov. 16 meeting to receive a presentation on the steps toward annexing RMV’s Planning Area 5, which sits against San Clemente’s northeastern border, and deliberate whether to initiate an official feasibility study on the annexation process.

However, when that meeting ran long, the council voted to punt the item to the Dec. 7 meeting.

James this past June had requested that city staff come back to the council with a report on the feasibility of annexation. Pointing to an expectation that RMV residents will use San Clemente’s resources, James said this past week that the city should be the one to collect its property taxes.

“There’s no doubt that they will use our city resources; they will be on our beach, be on our parks, they will be using our streets,” he said. “So, consequently, I thought the most prudent thing to do was to explore the possibility of annexation, so the City of San Clemente will benefit from the taxation of those homes.”

Ranch officials, however, noted RMV’s longstanding relationship with the County of Orange to expand the community and develop the town’s infrastructure, which would include public facilities, as well as commercial-use zones.

“Given that all of the approvals for The Ranch Plan’s infrastructure and open space preservation program are

the product of more than 20 years of collaboration with the County of Orange and the resource agencies, it is difficult to imagine the complications caused by annexation into any of our neighboring cities at this time,” Mike Balsamo, senior vice president of governmental relations for RMV, said in an email.

Balsamo declined to comment on whether annexing PA5 would have a financial impact on RMV’s revenues from home sales.

RMV, oftentimes referred to as The Ranch, is a master-planned community comprising 23,000 acres, with 17,000 of it allocated for permanent open space and the remaining 6,000 acres designated as residential.

When complete, RMV will have added roughly 14,000 new homes to South Orange County. PA5 is one of six total planning areas—or villages—that is years away from development. So far, The Ranch has opened the Villages of Sendero and Esencia, and currently is constructing the Village of Rienda, or Planning Area 3, which is slated to begin selling homes in 2022.

According to RMV’s Environmental Impact Report, which was approved by the county in 2004, there are about 5.5 million square feet of commercial-type uses designated on The Ranch, giving the community the capacity to develop and reach tax-base viability from a market standpoint.

PA5, specifically, is expected to include about 2,440 housing units, including senior housing, commercial centers, public facilities and 159 acres of open space, as well as a 200-acre golf course.

(Cont. on page 6)

(Cont. from page 3) reviewed, but only two at the time appeared to be actively engaged in illicit activity.

A review of the site this week could offer an explanation on the apparent lack of progress in San Clemente. According to the site, only one establishment now has had a user recently leave a review, about a month ago. Reviews for all other businesses listed are at least two years old.

Sgt. Todd Hylton, OCSD spokesperson, said in an email that the differences in the ordinances “does not affect the working relationship between OCSD and the Cities of San Clemente or San Juan Capistrano. OCSD works collaboratively with both cities to address crime trends.”

Hart said while he is under “no illusion that what we do in San Juan Capistra-

no will make a significant dent” in the massive issue that is human trafficking, he knows he is making a difference on some level.

“I hope that other Orange County cities see what we are doing here in San Juan Capistrano, find inspiration in it, and follow suit,” Hart said. “It is the right thing to do. And, if enough cities follow suit, together we can make a real difference.”

Hart said that those who engage in human trafficking are not welcome in San Juan, and city officials will continue to do everything in their power to deny them the opportunity to operate in town.

“And my message to those women who are victimized by this practice is, our deputies are here to help you, not to arrest you,” Hart said. thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26–December 9, 2021

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thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Home Developer, City Officials Hold Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Neighborhoods

BY COLLIN BREAUX

People passing by the corner of Calle Arroyo and Paseo Tirador might have noticed a long green fence in the area—and recently, dirt and construction trucks.

That intersection will eventually see new homes in the area. Avelina and Petra are communities being built at the location by Landsea Homes, a developer based in Newport Beach. Representatives with the company and City of San Juan Capistrano held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 17, to celebrate the coming neighborhoods.

“We’re super excited to be in San Juan.

San Juan is an amazing city,” said Tom Baine, Southern California Division President for Landsea. “We’ve got a lot to work to do. The project itself is 132 homes. It’s 43 detached homes, 89 attached homes— of which 14 will be affordable homes for moderate-income families.”

Homes are expected to be available for sale by late summer in 2022. The project area will also have a barbecue area and a public trail along the perimeter that will connect to nearby beaches. Baine also cited the neighborhood’s proximity to the downtown San Juan area and the scenery of the nearby hills. The development is a short walk from the Ortega Equestri-

Tom Baine, Southern California Division President for Landsea Homes, discusses planned new neighborhoods in San Juan Capistrano during a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 17. Photo: Collin Breaux

an Center and a 24-Hour Fitness.

“It’s going to be a great project. What a great place to live,” Mayor John Taylor said. “For some young families in this community, this is going to be a dream to live here. This is going to be maybe their

A bridge across Avenida La Pata on the northeastern part of town welcomes southbound motorists traveling into the City of San Clemente from San Juan Capistrano and Rancho Mission Viejo. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

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starter home.”

The homes are Landsea’s first project in San Juan. Single-family homes and townhomes will start from the high $700,000 range.

City officials have previously referred

to the development as the Tirador Residential Project. A final environmental impact report, tentative tract map, and floodplain land-use permit for the project were approved by the city council in summer 2020.

(Cont. from page 4) The city, in its agenda report to the city council, acknowledged that “RMV does not wish to annex until complete buildout of the Ranch Plan, which is several years out.”

A 2015 report on future governance for South Orange County estimated The Ranch to begin development of PA5 in 2026. However, Balsamo explained, RMV hasn’t initiated any formal development plans yet, and the timeline depends on market conditions.

For James, he’d prefer to begin the process of annexation while PA5 remains undeveloped, as waiting until there are residents already living there would require their votes to approve incorporation.

The city’s report outlines the steps to initiate the annexation process, which include, among other things, the preparation of an Annexation Feasibility Study, the adoption of a resolution to initiate a tax exchange with the county, and an

annexation application to Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO).

Citing annexation feasibility studies for the California cities of Merced and Martinez, the city noted that the cost for San Clemente to prepare its study could range from $29,190 to $420,000. And the cost for an environmental report, the city reported, is “unknown at this time.”

According to Jennifer Savage, assistant to San Clemente’s city manager, the city would also be on the hook for a series of LAFCO processing fees related to the annexation process. She also explained in an email that the city, should it move forward and receive LAFCO approval, wouldn’t purchase the land from RMV, as it’s “just incorporating the land into the city boundary.”

The city council will meet at 6 p.m. on Dec. 7 for the public session, at the San Clemente Community Center, located at 100 N. Calle Seville. The meeting will also be livestreamed, and can be viewed on the city’s YouTube channel. thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEW BITES

COMMUNITY MEETINGS FRIDAY, DEC. 3

COMPILED BY STAFF

Lunch with the Mayor Noon. The last Mayor’s Lunch with Mayor John Taylor will be held at Trevor’s at the Tracks, and the public is welcome to attend. Feel free to chat with Taylor and others, though you’ll have to pay for your own meal. 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

CD | Riding Park Hosts

Upcoming Show Jumping Qualifier For the first time ever, the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup USA will be held on the U.S. West Coast—specifically, at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano.

The event is scheduled for May 10-15 in 2022 and serves as an opportunity for teams from North/Central America and the Caribbean to earn points toward qualification for the annual final competition held in Barcelona, Spain in late September, a news release said.

“We’ve wanted to have another international event at the riding park,” said Hillary Ridland, CEO for The Ridland Group, the park’s current operators. “It will be an amazing thing for San Juan Capistrano and the horse industry in California.”

The Jumping Nations series has been on a yearlong hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. leg of the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup series was last held in 2020 in Wellington, Florida, the news release stated. It is the only series qualifier held on U.S. soil.

The event is expected to have an economic benefit for the area, Ridland said.

Additionally, local young equestrians could also get a chance to see some of their icons up close, she added.

CD | San Juan Capistrano

Native to Discuss Acjachemen Traditions with Unitarian Universalists Fellowship of Laguna Beach San Juan Capistrano native Jacque Tahuka-Nunez, of the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians, will be the special guest for the Unitarian Universalists Fellowship of Laguna Beach’s service on Sunday, Nov. 28.

Tahuka-Nunez will discuss the customs and traditions of the Acjachemen people, who are native to the San Juan area. The community is invited to attend.

“Jacque Tahuka-Nunez, a San Juan Capistrano native, has spent her adult life sharing her Acjachemen ancestral lineage, preserving her culture through the oral Native American tradition of storytelling,” a news release said.“In recent years, Jacque has worked as a cultural consultant for the Indian Cultural Center and Justice Center in Santa Rosa, California, creating educational materials that reflect an accurate history of

TUESDAY, DEC. 7

City Council 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano City Council will hold a meeting open to the public. People can attend in person or watch online through the city website.

City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 8 A regional qualifier for teams to enter a show jumping competition in Spain next year will be held at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in May. Photo: Fédération Equestre

California’s indigenous people.”

The service starts at 10:45 a.m. The church is at 429 Cypress Avenue in Laguna Beach. The event can also be viewed through a Zoom link on the church’s Facebook page.

are stressed, there’s now a safe zone they can enter to catch their breath.

The school hosted a ribbon-cutting for the opening of the zone, referred to as an “escape space,” on Thursday, Nov. 18.

Inside the area, there are hammocks, chairs, exercise machines, and artificial turf, so those with special needs can relax when they feel overwhelmed. The escape-space walls are painted in a calming blue hue to put kids at ease.

“The escape space was a preschool playground that was not being used any longer because the preschool was no longer here, so I asked the principal if we could use that to create a very special space and area for students with severe disabilities,” said Jamie Finnsson, a special education teacher at San Clemente High. “They have some hammocks, so they can read a story.”

Before the area was converted into the escape space, it was full of weeds and debris that needed to be cleared out. The project took years to fully come to life.

The renovation was done in phases and cost thousands of dollars, with numerous donors stepping in to help. Students got to participate in putting up new mural artwork for the escape-space walls.

When opening day arrived, students ran around the space and tried out the amenities with smiles on their faces while parents and teachers watched and took pictures. Families, educators, and supporters celebrated before the official ribbon-cutting with food and a DJ. Boys Scout Troop 724 from the local area also stepped in to help with getting the escape zone off the ground. Troop 724 member Cade Clemons said the idea means a lot to him, because his sister was in the school district’s STEPS (struc-

CD | Rotary Club Helps Out

Needy Families Before Thanksgiving Needy families received assistance from the Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano on the Saturday before Thanksgiving in the form of 100 free distributed turkey dinner meals.

Half of the multicourse meals went to families living in San Juan and the other half went to young military families at Camp Pendleton, according to Rotary Club member John Caldwell.

Donations for the meals were collected through shoppers at local grocery stores, who bought items after being given a list of requested goods by members and affiliated volunteers.

“The last step was filling each large bag and handing it out at the Rotary Scout Hut in San Juan Capistrano,” Caldwell said. “It was a feel-good success!”

CD | News Next Door:

San Clemente High Community Celebrates Opening of ‘Escape Space’ for Special-Needs Students If special-needs students at San Clemente High School feel sensory overload or

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

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Planning Commission 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting.

The public can attend in person or watch online at the city website. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.

THURSDAY, DEC. 9

Design Review Committee 4:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Design Review Committee will hold a regular meeting. The public can attend in person or watch online at the city website. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 10

Coffee Chat 8:30 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. The first Friday of the month will be held on Zoom, with in-person gatherings on all other Fridays at Hennessey’s Tavern in San Juan Capistrano, 31761 Camino Capistrano.

Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

The next print issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

tured, teaching, educationally based, promoting independence, and student-centered instruction) educational program for special-needs students.

“There was a giant structure in the side that we had to take down,” Clemons said when addressing everyone at the ribbon-cutting. “Four years of working on it really touched my heart. All the fundraisers we’ve done, it meant a lot. I’d like to thank all of you and Ms. Finnsson. It’s been so special and such an honor for me to do this.” thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26–December 9, 2021

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thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON RMV

Construction Underway for New Rancho Mission Viejo Amenities and Homes

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

P

rospective homeowners in the village of Rienda—the latest housing development coming to Rancho Mission Viejo—and current RMV residents will eventually get to enjoy a new fitness center, pool, artificial lagoon, and more.

The amenities are part of Ranch Camp, a set of outdoor conveniences intended to complement the residential experience in the South Orange County community. RMV officials recently took The Capistrano Dispatch on a behindthe-scenes tour of Ranch Camp, which is currently under construction.

“This is the biggest facility amenity that we’ve built to date. Six acres of the site is dedicated to an amenity for the residents and a three-acre portion is

New amenities are being built to accommodate new and current residents in Rancho Mission Viejo, particularly with the village of Rienda in the works. Photos: Collin Breaux

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where we’re doing the community sales front,” said Kris Maher, senior vice president of design. “Prospects will come in to learn about the community and then go out to the area.”

A heritage oak tree will also be placed at the front of Ranch Camp to give a welcoming aura. A “heritage house” will give information about the history of RMV, including the area’s ranching aspect, and a “nature house” will teach people about The Nature Reserve, RMV’s outdoor preserve.

The fitness center will be open-air and near a pool, so parents can stay fit while watching their kids or family and friends swim. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy views of the nearby hills while keeping in shape, or relax in deck chairs if they just (Cont. on page 10) thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON RMV

(Cont. from page 9) want to hang out. Fans will provide air circulation, and the terrace is big enough to accommodate fitness classes.

“It’s open to the elements with lots of fresh air,” Maher said. “We built one similar to this in Esencia. This one is a little bit bigger. That fitness center we built in Esencia is so popular.”

The various coming features are expected to provide a lifestyle benefit for new and existing residents, Maher said.

“This is where they’re going to recreate, and have their family and friends over,” Maher said. “What I really like about this amenity is there literally is something for everyone.”

The lagoon under construction is 20,000 square feet. If people don’t want to jump into the water or want to dry off

after doing so, there will also be nearby firepits and picnic tables where they can relax. A check-in area will be at the front of the lagoon area, as will be showers and restrooms. Secure areas for kids will be set aside on nearby land so parents can keep an eye on their children.

“This is what we call the Cove,” Maher said. “(There will be) a little kid’s wading pool. The rest of the Cove, we have a beach entry here that goes down into it. The rest of the Cove is 3½-4 feet deep.

People can easily navigate around it.”

Food trucks and live music are also expected to pop up at Ranch Camp.

“A project this big, we really have to figure out how to stage the construction, because it’s so massive—when you put the trees in, how you get the trees in,” Maher said. “It’s a real logistical challenge

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

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to lay out a site this big.”

For the equestrians, Ranch Camp will also have a three-quarter acre horse pasture. Horses will be available three days a week, which Maher said will be “really fun for kids” and “great photo ops for the families.”

A trailhead will also go up in the area and eventually connect to Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park in Coto de Caza.

As for RMV’s Planning Area 3 for new housing—which is also under construction—7,000 new homes are expected to go up. Planning Area 3 will have a fire station. Duplexes and single-family, detached three-story homes will be available. Price ranges have not yet been set.

Ranch Camp is expected to fully open by early 2022. CD

EVENTS AT THE RANCH

DEC. 11

MISTLETOE AND WINTER PLANT WALK 9-11 a.m. Get a look at seasonal plants and fruits at The Nature Reserve. The Saturday morning walk will be held on the Shady Canyon trail. Enjoy decorating and take home your own mistletoe as a keepsake. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children, and free for Reserve supporters. Participants must be registered or on the wait list by 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 10. Sign up at rmvreserve.org.

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HOLIDAY

Happenings FRIDAY, DEC. 3

Harbor Lights Cruise

the next day on Dec. 5 at the same time.

Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. danapointharbor.com.

6-7 p.m. Enjoy an hour-long boat ride through Dana Point Harbor, courtesy of Dana Wharf. Music, holiday lighting, and other festivities are part of the fun.

The cruise will sail on select Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the holiday season. Cost is $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 3-12, and $5 for children ages 2 and under. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. danawharf.com.

Capistrano Lights

‘A Christmas Story’ Performance

Santa’s Village by the Sea

7:30 p.m. Get the holiday season started with a performance of this classic Christmas story, performed on stage at Camino Real Playhouse. Relive Ralphie’s quest to get a Red Ryder BB gun, but be careful not to shoot your eye out with that thing! The play runs through Dec. 19. Check the venue website for ticket prices and times. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 4

Boat Ride with Santa 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tour the waters around Dana Point Harbor with St. Nick himself.

A boat ride in South Orange County may not be the same as a sleigh ride at the North Pole, but the festive spirt is all the same. Tickets are $5 per person, and all proceeds will be donated to Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay. Reservations are required, and there is a 6-person-per-reservation limit. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point.

888.224.0603. danawharf.com.

Santa Paws 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring your pet down for holiday-themed photo opportunities during the 10th annual Santa Paws, hosted by the Pet Project Foundation.

Pet photos will be offered for a small donation. The event will also be available

4-6 p.m. This annual South Orange County event returns with holiday programming, music, a nativity scene, extended hours for the Serra Chapel, and more. Marvel at the historic grounds of the Mission during select evenings, running through Dec. 20. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com.

4-8 p.m. The City of San Clemente and the Downtown Business Association present a fun event to spread holiday cheer. Get ready for music, food, hot chocolate, snow, and more. Wristbands or tickets are required for certain activities. Check the city website to see the calendar of events and times. Avenida del Mar, San Clemente. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

See the ‘Tallest Tree in OC’ Get a gander of what is being promoted as the “tallest tree in OC” at the Outlets of San Clemente. The 100-foot-tall tree is adorned with bows, ornaments, and lights. Drop by for a picture with the family. 101 W Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.535.2323. outletsatsanclemente.com.

SUNDAY, DEC. 5 + 12

Gingerbread House and Holiday Cookie Decorating 2-4 p.m. Create your own seasonal treats with the family at The RitzCarlton, Laguna Niguel. The pastry experts at the resort will guide you through making a sweet memento for the holidays. Call resort services at 949.240.2000 to reserve your spot.

Cost is $250 per gingerbread house.

1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. ritzcarlton.com.

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HOLIDAY

Happenings THURSDAY, DEC. 9

San Clemente. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

Holiday Carolers at Dana Point Harbor 4-7 p.m. Listen to some seasonal tunes while enjoying the water and shops in Dana Point. Carolers will also be out on Dec. 23. 34675 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. 949.388.3663. danapointharbor.com.

FRIDAY, DEC. 10

THURSDAY, DEC. 16

Holiday Painting Workshop 5-7 p.m. Learn how to paint miniature ornaments on canvas. Jennifer Matthews will guide the course. Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.503.5700. marriott.com.

Boat Parade of Lights 7:30 p.m. Prepare to be dazzled at night while near the water during the 46th annual Boat Parade of Lights. Enjoy the decorated boats while spending time at the harbor. The event also runs at the same time on Dec. 11 and at 6 p.m. on Dec. 12. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point.

949.388.3663. danapointharbor.com.

Holiday Storytelling 7:30 p.m. Bring the kids to hear seasonal tales with Santa at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Donations of new children’s books will be collected for Miracles for Kids. The event also runs at the same time on Dec. 11, 17, and 18. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point.

949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com.

SATURDAY, DEC. 11

Sunsets with Santa 3-5 p.m. Get a photo with Santa at the San Clemente Pier, with the setting sun as a backdrop. Additional photo opportunities will also be available on certain dates. Check the city website for specific times. 622 Avenida Del Mar,

FRIDAY, DEC. 17

A Cabrillo Holiday Celebration 7:30 p.m. Join Cabrillo Playhouse for an evening of family-friendly songs celebrating the holidays. The event also runs at the same time on Dec. 18 and at 2 p.m. on Dec. 19. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. cabrilloplayhouse.org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 19

Winterscape & Festival of Trees 5:30-8 p.m. The Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park brings you this fun event, from Dec. 10-23. Activities will include the Festival of Trees, live music, appearances by Santa, ice skating, curling, and more. Take in the beauty of this outdoor park while enjoying Christmas time with your loved ones. Check the venue website for exact hours on each day and event costs. 30753 La Pata Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.299.7219. sanjuanoutpost.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

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SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | Bartlett Bulletin by Board Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

I-5 Freeway Widening Project in South County—What You Need to Know

I

f you live in South Orange County and travel along Interstate 5, navigating your way to and from the freeway these days can be challenging with traffic volume returning to pre-pandemic levels and ongoing construction of the I-5 Freeway Widening Project.

As a member of the OCTA Board, I strongly advocated for the much-needed widening project to keep South County BARTLETT moving, but how do BULLETIN we minimize the

BY LISA BARTLETT challenging effects that often accompany traffic-improvement projects?

I reached out to our OCTA partners for an update on the project and to share some helpful tips.

OCTA, Caltrans District 12 and the cities of Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Hills and Laguna Niguel continue working together on the multiyear project.

Approved by nearly 70% of Orange County voters, the $580 million project spans 6.5 miles and is being constructed in three segments. The overall project is more than one-third finished, with Segment 1 from SR-73 to Oso Parkway and Segment 2 from Oso Parkway to Alicia Parkway each 50% complete.

optimized and synchronized; • No carpool or general-purpose lanes are closed or reduced during daytime/peak hours; • Ramp and lane closures occur almost exclusively between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.; • Weekly alerts can be emailed to motorists or accessed on the web; and • Full freeway closures are limited to overnight hours and advertised in advance.

Weekend ramp closures may only occur for pre-approved reasons.

and 5 a.m.

LA PAZ ROAD • Open throughout construction • Ongoing access to local schools, shops and residential neighborhoods • Interchange being realigned and reconstructed • On- and off-ramp will be improved, including newly designed NB off-ramp • Vertical clearance will be increased • New bicycle lanes and sidewalks will be added • Preexisting columns will be removed, eliminating barrier and facilitating lane changes • Ramp closures may occur between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

• Fifty-five-hour weekend closures may occur on select occasions to maximize safety and productivity

Below is a recap of what’s happening and in store at various interchanges:

Looking ahead to 2022, the following improvements will move forward: • Paving new general-purpose lanes from Avery Parkway to Alicia Parkway; • Reconstructing interchanges at Avery Parkway and La Paz Road; • Widening bridges at Oso Creek, Aliso Creek, Los Alisos Boulevard and El Toro Road; • Extending the second carpool lane from Alicia Parkway to El Toro Road; • Constructing new auxiliary lanes at seven key locations; and • Adding striping, signage and signals, as well as other operational improvements.

When completed, these improvements will increase freeway capacity and enhance ramp, roadway and interchange operations from Mission Viejo to Laguna Woods.

Here are some construction details to help you navigate and minimize delays.

• All preexisting I-5 general-purpose lanes are open; • Street and signal lights are monitored, The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

AVERY PARKWAY • Remains open during construction • Reconstruction will double interchange capacity • Increasing from 5 to 10 lanes, including dedicated turn and thru lanes • New bicycle lanes, sidewalks and signals • Stage 1 of bridge widening completed in November 2021 • Ramp and lane closures take place at night • Freeway lanes, ramps and street open during daytime and peak hours • Select 55-hour weekend closures permitted to maximize safety and productivity CROWN VALLEY PARKWAY • Interchange remains open during construction • Ongoing access to shopping destinations, medical centers and residential areas • Interchange will be reconstructed and realigned to accommodate new freeway lanes • Ramp lanes will feature dedicated rightand left-turn lanes • Major retaining walls being constructed in northbound direction • I-5 underpass at Crown Valley widened and retaining walls constructed • Auxiliary lanes between Oso and Crown Valley will be constructed • Ramp closures may occur between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

OSO PARKWAY • Interchange remains open during construction • Ongoing access to golf courses, residential areas, etc.

• Interchange will be reconstructed and realigned • Oso Creek bridge being widened— northbound and southbound • New auxiliary lanes will be constructed from Oso Parkway • Ramp closures may occur between 10 p.m.

ALICIA PARKWAY • Interchange remains open throughout construction • Ongoing access to shopping, commercial and residential destinations • Interchange being realigned and reconstructed • New ramp lanes will feature dedicated turn lanes • I-5 Freeway underpass will be widened at Alicia Parkway • Ramp closures may occur between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

EL TORO ROAD • Interchange remains open throughout construction • Ongoing access to local retail, civic and residential destinations • I-5 bridge over El Toro Road will be widened—northbound and southbound • Interchange closures may occur between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

• Fifty-five-hour, weekend interchange closures may occur to maximize safety on select occasions I hope you find this information helpful, and I will continue to keep you updated via my weekly newsletter, which you can sign up for at supbartlett.com and on social media.

Lisa Bartlett sits on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, representing the 5th District. She was reelected in 2018. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch .com.

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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 EDITORIAL Managing Editor Shawn Raymundo City Editor, Capo Dispatch Collin Breaux City Reporter, DP Times Breeana Greenberg Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh Columnists Fred Swegles Tom Blake Special Projects Editor Andrea Papagianis-Camacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman

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

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 19, Issue 22. 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 2021. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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GETTING OUT

Editor’s Pick

The List What’s going on in and around town this week 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 | 26 LIVE THEATER AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE 7:30 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse is fully open again for a regular performance season, after being shut down throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Friday night is the premiere of A Christmas Story, a rendition of the classic holiday movie.

The show runs through Dec. 19. Current health guidelines will be in place. All staff members and actors are fully vaccinated. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

SATURDAY | 27 LIVE MUSIC AT THE COACH HOUSE 8 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue.

Metalachi—a band that plays a unique blend of heavy metal and mariachi music—will perform. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

SUNDAY | 28 LIVE MUSIC AT TREVOR’S 11 a.m. Eat some food, grab a drink and unwind while listening to live music at Trevor’s at the Tracks. Susan Bach will perform. Common Allies Duo and Mouhammed Bassaj will also play later in the day, at 2 and 6 p.m., respectively. Trevor’s at the Tracks, 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.9593. trevorsatthetracks.com.

San Juan Capistrano resident Jerry Nieblas and his cousin, Gigi Nieblas, have deep-standing indigenous ties to the area. Putuidem Village will pay tribute to the ancestry of San Juan’s people. Photo: Allison Jarrell

FRIDAY | 03 GRAND OPENING FOR PUTUIDEM VILLAGE 3:30 p.m. The long-awaited opening for the cultural village paying tribute to the area’s indigenous people has finally arrived. Putuidem Village will feature cultural markers, seating, and other amenities. The event will include a ceremonial commencement and light refreshments. Northwest Open Space, 30291 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1171. sanjuancapistrano.org.

TUESDAY | 30 TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY 5 p.m. The new downtown hotel, Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, will host its first annual tree lighting ceremony. Music will be provided by the San Juan Capistrano Elementary School Choir. There will also be complimentary hot chocolate, holiday treats, a special visit from Santa, and more. The event is free, and attendees can register for it at eventbrite.com. Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.503.5700. marriott.com.

WEDNESDAY | 01 GRAND OPENING FOR BETHANY PRYOR PHOTOGRAPHY 4-8 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon-cutting for Bethany Pryor Photography, a local business. A raffle will also be

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

held to benefit Laura’s House, a shelter for domestic violence victims. RSVP to 949.456.4929 or hello@bethanypryorphotography.com. Bethany Pryor Photography, 27134 Paseo Espada, #301, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuanchamber.com.

THURSDAY | 02 NFR WATCH PARTY 5 p.m. Join the San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition and Open Space Foundation for a Horsemen’s Happy Hour, as they gather to watch TV coverage of the first round of the 2021 National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.

Appetizers will be provided. Hennessey’s Tavern, 31761 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

SATURDAY | 04 VINTAGE AND CRAFT HOLIDAY MARKET 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Page 19

Historical Society invites you to the Los Rios Historic District to check out what vendors have in store. Volunteers are needed to help out with the event.

Email info@sjchistory.org or check out the Society’s pages on Facebook and Instagram for more information. O’Neill Museum, 31831 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano.

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING 5:45 p.m. The City of San Juan Capistrano will host its annual Christmas tree lighting downtown. Come enjoy pre-show entertainment, a holiday stage production, and other festivities. Free shuttles will run from JSerra Catholic High School from 3 to 10 p.m. Historic Town Center Park, 31872 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

CAPISTRANO LIGHTS 4-6 p.m. This annual seasonal tradition returns to the Mission. Enjoy holiday programs, Christmas tree lightings, a Nativity (Cont. on page 20) thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

(Cont. from page 19) scene, and more on select nights in December at one of South Orange County’s premier historic venues. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com.

MONDAY | 06 THE STAND RIBBON-CUTTING 11 a.m. A new restaurant is open in the Plaza Del Obispo Shopping Center, with the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce on hand to celebrate. The Stand serves what it describes as “American classics redefined”—burgers, salads, chicken, and more. RSVP to info@sanjuanchamber.com. The Stand, 31882 Del Obispo Street, Suite 160, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuanchamber.com.

WEDNESDAY | 08 TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE BREWHOUSE 6:30-8:30 p.m. The BrewHouse hosts a trivia night every Wednesday. Test your knowledge with friends, or show up solo and join a team. The BrewHouse, 31896 Plaza Drive, Suite D3, San Juan Capistrano.

AT THE MOVIES

‘Belfast’ Takes International Audiences Back in History

BY MEGAN BIANCO

W

hen I saw the first trailer for Kenneth Branagh’s latest historical drama, Belfast, I instantly thought that it looked like “Roma (2018) for White people.”

Fortunately, outside of the time period, black-and-white cinematography and an effective riot sequence, there actually isn’t much in common between the two

949.481.6181. brewhousesjc.com.

FLASHBACK WEDNESDAY 7:30 p.m. The movie theater downtown

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

films. Loosely based on the filmmaker’s own childhood in the real city of Belfast, Northern Ireland, we are taken back to a moment in history that still deserves some exposure.

In late 1969, tensions are high in the modest family communities of Belfast, as it’s now reached the point where the neighborhood residents have to hide and lock up when Catholic and Protestant gangs take to the streets to riot and attack one another.

On one corner is where 8-year-old Buddy (Jude Hill), older brother Will (Lewis McAskie) and their parents—referred to simply as “Ma” (Caitríona Balfe) and “Pa” (Jamie Dornan)—reside. Pa is away a lot on weekdays for work, and he thinks it might be time to move everyone away from the violence. Ma is reluctant, as she’s lived in the same town her whole life, while Buddy also disagrees with leaving his school friends and local relatives.

I’ve read that a few people complain that the aesthetics of Branagh’s use of black and white, plus shades of color a handful of times throughout Belfast, are a bit dull and uninspired. I really didn’t mind the visuals myself, though, as I think it seemed to fit how simple and quaint the atmosphere is in Buddy’s hometown.

Branagh makes a decent attempt to not take sides or come across biased between the two Christian groups, and portrays both sets of gangs as violent and prejudiced against each other. Hill’s lead debut is filled with many wide-eyed reactions of shock or awe and not much else. But fortunately, he also manages to not fall into the trope of “obnoxious kid on screen.”

Belfast is a fresh and interesting take on the Troubles conflict in Northern Ireland, and it also doubles as a whimsical family drama. CD

will screen How the Grinch Stole Christmas as part of its Flashback Wednesday series. Order some popcorn and sit back in your seat while you enjoy this

holiday film. Tickets are $10. Regency Theatres San Juan Capistrano, 26762 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

844.216.3767. regencymovies.com.

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PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM

PUBLIC NOTICE

In accordance with the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (33 U.S.C. § 2714(c)), the P00547 Pipeline, owned and/or operated by the San Pedro Bay Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Beta Operating Company, LLC, which in turn is a wholly owned subsidiary of Amplify Energy Corporation (collectively “Amplify”) has been identified as the source of a discharge of oil into the Pacific Ocean off the California Coast on or about October 2, 2021. As noted by the Unified Command, as of October 8, 2021, preliminary findings estimate the discharge involved a minimum of 24,696 gallons, or 588 barrels of oil and a maximum of 131,000 gallons, or 3,134 barrels of oil. As noted by the United States Coast Guard, this discharge impacted the California Coastline from Long Beach down to about San Clemente. As the owner/operator of the facility and/or the lessee or permittee of the area in which the facility was located, Amplify may be liable for removal costs and damages and is therefore required to advertise the procedures by which persons who have claims for removal costs and damages may submit their claims.

Removal costs and damages which may be compensated include removal costs performed in accordance with the National Contingency Plan; damage to natural resources; damage to or loss of real or personal property; loss of subsistence use of natural resources; loss of government revenues; loss of profits and earnings capacity; and increased cost of public services. Claims should be in writing, signed by the claimant, for a specified amount; and should include all evidence to support the claim.

Claims presented may include claims for interim short-term damages representing less than the full amount to which the claimant ultimately may be entitled. It should be noted that payment of such a claim shall not preclude recovery for damages not reflected in the paid or settled partial claims. Claims should be mailed to the following address: Name: Chris Moore Company: McClaren’s Inc. Address: 500 W. Colorado St., Unit C PMB 144 Glendale, CA 91204 Office hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM PT, Monday through Friday, except holidays. Claimants may call 1-866-985-8366 for information.

Any claims which are denied or which are not settled within 90 days after the date of submission to our claims representative may be submitted to: Director National Pollution Funds Center (Ca) US COAST GUARD STOP 7605 2703 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR AVE SE WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7605

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

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CLASSIFIEDS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@thecapistranodispatch.com DEADLINE 12PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

WANTED WANTED: COIN COLLECTIONS San Clemente coin collector is buying coins and currency.

Paying top dollar for old coins and currency Free no obligation appraisals Example Silver Coins 1964 and before Dollars $18.00 & up Halves $7.50 Quarters $3.75 Dimes $1.50 Buying pennies, proof sets, etc.

Call or Text Dave 847 769-3590

LIST LOCALS ONLY USE LOCALS ONLY Contact Debra for pricing at 949.388.7700, ext. 104

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

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

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

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SJC LIVING

GUEST OPINION | On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

Which Online Dating Site is the Best for Seniors?

D

uring the pandemic, most single seniors did not interact face-to-face with people. Many of them decided to give online dating a try, and often were frustrated with that experience.

Some seniors don’t use the internet to date. Connie of Laguna Niguel emailed me about the difficulty she’s had trying to meet men. She wrote, “I have never been on an online dating site. I prefer the old-fashioned way (of meeting men).”

What Connie means is networking through friends and/or going to public places and events where she might by chance meet a guy.

I’ve often been asked by seniors, “Which online dating site is right for me?”

Take Ellen, for example. She recently wrote: “I am a widow, 66, and recently retired. So, I’m starting a new chapter in my life. When I think of the future and see myself alone for the rest of my life, that makes me feel sad. However, when I look at my life today, I am happy—busy with kids, grandkids, hobbies, and church.

“I tried online dating for a few years.

Tried them all: eHarmony, Plenty of Fish, Catholic Match, Senior Dating, and OurTime. I met some nice people, but nothing clicked.

“More times than not, when I emailed someone, I never got a response. After a while, it just wasn’t ON LIFE AND LOVE worth the work anyBY TOM BLAKE more, and internet dating is a lot of work. I keep my options open, but I figure at this stage, I am well done with online looking. But I am certainly open if I meet someone in person.”

I’m not an internet dating expert. After all, I’ve been with Greta for 24 years and have never been on a dating site. So, how do I advise women like Ellen to find the right site?

I turn to Christine Baumgartner, an Orange County expert on dating and a relationship coach, whom I’ve known for more than 20 years. Baumgartner calls her business “The Perfect Catch.”

Recently, Baumgartner posted comments on Facebook under the title, “Which internet dating site is ‘the best’ one?” I felt what Baumgartner wrote was so informative for single senior daters

that I chose to share some of her highlights in this week’s column.

When Baumgartner is asked by a client which dating site is the best one, her reply is,“You may be surprised at my answer, but they’re generally all the same.”

But she points out that certain sites have a particular focus, such as religious beliefs or sites that cater to a variety of age groups, including sites for seniors.

Baumgartner said, “In reality, the outcome of a person’s online dating experience often has more to do with some of the following …

“Your attitude toward yourself, the opposite sex, and dating in general. Many people tend to struggle if they have negative opinions about the opposite sex (due to past dating experiences).”

When it comes to profile content and photos, she says that many of us are tempted to lie about our age or touch up our pictures. She stresses that singles should be honest with what they post.

“Persistence. Some people give up quickly when dating doesn’t turn out to be what they were looking for,” she said.

Baumgartner recommends people adopt a stick-with-it attitude.

Baumgartner concluded, “I have clients who have met their significant others on dating sites after we worked on these things together. I’ve found that it’s usually not the site causing a person to not find the right date … it’s the person not using the site to that person’s best advantage.”

If I were single and trying to figure out how best to meet someone, I’d contact Baumgartner. She’s a widow and has walked the walk—not to mention that she is one of the nicest human beings one will ever meet.

No wonder she does so well helping senior singles improve their dating success.

Baumgartner’s email is christine@ theperfectcatch.com, and her website is theperfectcatch.com. Contact her, you might be pleased that you did.

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. CD 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 November 26-December 9, 2021

Photo: OC Archives and OC Public Libraries.

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo shows Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano in the 1920s.

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.

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

Amaretto

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

This big-eared beauty is Amaretto, a spayed female bunny who just can’t wait to make your acquaintance. One-year-old, Amaretto is an outgoing and curious rabbit who loves to explore her surroundings. She enjoys being petted, is litter box-trained, and would make a great house bunny for just about any family.

If you are interested in adopting Amaretto, please visit petprojectfoundation.org to download an adoption application form.

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

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

SOLUTION:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

TARTAN TRIUMPH

Stahl ignites late comeback; St. Margaret’s advances to first title game since 2014

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he Tartans had grinded out a physical battle with Claremont as the CIF-SS Division 9 semifinal wound down late in the fourth quarter on Friday, Nov. 19. Ball control with long, punishing drives had put Claremont ahead, and the Wolfpack intercepted the Tartans at the Claremont 6-yard line with five minutes left.

St. Margaret’s got the three-and-out it needed, and then, magic happened.

Will Stahl happened.

St. Margaret’s quarterback Jack Ruff connected with Stahl on three straight plays, including the go-ahead 14-yard touchdown pass, and then Stahl jumped Claremont’s very next passing play for a 33-yard pick-six to ice the game for the Tartans, 23-13, and send St. Margaret’s to its first CIF-SS championship game since 2014.

“They responded,” said an emotional Kory Minor, St. Margaret’s head coach.

St. Margaret’s got a late spark from senior receiver Will Stahl with a touchdown catch and a pick-six to come back and beat Claremont, 23-13. The Tartans will play in their first CIF-SS title game since 2014 on Friday, Nov. 26, at Colony High School in Ontario. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

“At halftime, I said they need to make individual plays, and they did that. No. 11 (Stahl), No. 4 (Ruff), that whole team, they did that. I’m so proud of these young men. … I’m the happiest I can be right now, because they fought through adversity, a damn good football team. I’m speechless.”

Ruff completed 20 of 30 passes for 201 yards, a touchdown and an interception.

Stahl caught nine passes for 144 yards and a touchdown before his interception return for a clinching touchdown.

St. Margaret’s (9-4) will play on the road at Colony High School (7-6) in Ontario on Friday, Nov. 26, at 7 p.m. in the

Division 9 title game. Colony beat Ventura, 28-0, in its semifinal.

Look for features on the St. Margaret’s football team leading up to the game on thecapistranodispatch.com, and live coverage of the championship game on Instagram @CapoDispatch and on Twitter @SouthOCSports. Postgame coverage will again be found at thecapistranodispatch.com.

The Tartans have endured plenty over the past calendar year to get to this point.

As everyone experienced, the pandemic forced delays to St. Margaret’s 2020, and the Tartans would only manage a three-game

Turkey Week Tip-Off SoCal Challenge welcomes major college basketball to South County

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

his week marked a new era in South Orange County sports as the SoCal Challenge, a major college basketball multiteam event, tipped off in the Pavilion at JSerra Catholic High School on Monday, Nov. 22

The SoCal Challenge, a major college basketball multiteam event, tipped off its inaugural session in the Pavilion at JSerra Catholic High School on Monday, Nov. 22. Eight teams, including TCU, Santa Clara, Fresno State and Pepperdine, highlighted the action. Photo: Ken Pagliaro/Courtesy of SoCal Challenge

and Wednesday, Nov. 24.

NCAA Division 1 basketball was played in San Juan Capistrano, with early-session games streamed online by FloHoops and the evening session games broadcast live on CBS Sports Network.

The event kicked off with a thriller in the early session on Monday, as Nicholls

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26-December 9, 2021

State (La.) knocked off Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in overtime, 75-72. Nicholls State went on a 17-0 run in the second half to take the lead, but Cal Poly hit a clutch bucket late to force overtime. In the extra session, Nicholls State knocked down a 3-pointer for the lead that the Colonels maintained for the win.

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season in the spring. Affected by injuries and players’ commitments to other sports, St. Margaret’s played its season with only 17 players and went 1-2 in the short campaign.

Into the offseason, the Tartans’ league was dissolved, as teams dropped to eight-man football or dropped the program entirely.

St. Margaret’s played a tough schedule as a freelance team in this fall 2021 season, but after a 2-4 start, the Tartans found their way to the CIF-SS playoffs and have won seven straight games to make the Division 9 final.

Minor could hardly contain himself in praising his group.

“Those men there. They believed. They bought in. They didn’t question it,” Minor said. “Every single day, they came to work.

It wasn’t always the best work, but they found a way to get through it. They’re here because of that. I owe everything to this team, this community, this culture.

This is special.”

In the final, St. Margaret’s will meet up with an athletic Colony team that possesses a strong defensive line.

Colony was 4-6 in the regular season and finished second in the Citrus 4 league. Colony actually lost to Claremont, 13-6, on Sept. 10. In the playoffs, Colony won on the road in Orange County at Portola, 42-21, and Western of Anaheim, 52-27. Colony won at home against Ventura in the semifinals, 28-0.

St. Margaret’s last trip to the CIF-SS Final was successful, culminating in a 2014 East Valley Division championship over Grace Brethren. Colony’s last CIF-SS Final was also in 2014, when the Titans beat Los Altos for the Central Division title. CD

In the second game on Monday, it was all Utah Valley all the time, as the Wolverines led Idaho by 25 points at halftime and beat the Vandals by 38 points, 83-45.

The biggest crowd of the opening day came in the evening-session opener, in a battle of unbeaten between TCU and Santa Clara. TCU had the crowd advantage, as the gym was filled to near-capacity with Horned Frog alumni. However, it was the scattering of Broncos fans who ultimately enjoyed the night with an 85-66 win.

In the late-night cap, Fresno State and Pepperdine played a tight affair. Fresno State rode its defense and held on to the win, 70-63.

The teams each switched opponents among the early- and late-session groups for Wednesday’s games, which included another unbeaten showdown between Santa Clara and Fresno State, but results were not available at press time.

Check out thecapistranodispatch.com for photo galleries from the SoCal Challenge, and look out for the future, as the SoCal Challenge seems to have hit the ground running in the college basketball landscape. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26–December 9, 2021

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thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch November 26–December 9, 2021

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thecapistranodispatch.com