August 25, 2017

RMV Rodeo Returns to Riding Park OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

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FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

AUGUST 25-SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 16

Gearing up for the Gridiron High school football teams begin 2017 season SPECIAL SECTION L to R: Gabriel Martinez, Isaiah Grover and Austin Gifford look to lead the San Juan Hills High School football team in 2017.

Photo: Steve Breazeale

City Council Approves Zoning for Seniors-Only Mobile Home Parks EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

Hundreds Head to San Juan Capistrano for Solar Eclipse SJC LIVING/PAGE 22

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano Celebrates 25 Years SJC LIVING/PAGE 24

GO TO THECAPISTRANODISPATCH.COM FOR THE LATEST NEWS, EVENTS AND SPORTS

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum to Hold Grand Reopening Saturday

Five things San Juan should know this week City Council Approves Permanent Protection of Seniors-Only Mobile Parks THE LATEST: The crowd of seniors that packed into City Hall on Aug. 15 erupted in cheers after the San Juan Capistrano City Council voted unanimously to create permanent zoning for four seniors-only mobile home parks in town.

San Juan is home to seven mobile home parks, ranging from 61 units to 313 units.

Four of those parks are seniors-only communities (ages 55 and over): El Nido Mobile Estates, Rancho Alipaz Mobile Estates, Capistrano Valley Mobile Estates, and Villa San Juan Mobile Home Park.

Earlier this year, El Nido and Rancho Alipaz park owners gave notice to their residents that they intended to convert their parks to all-ages, causing concern in the seniors-only communities. For El Nido residents, the notices marked a new chapter in an ongoing fight with park management over rent control. Park owner Richard Worley is currently suing the city over its rejection of his second request to raise rent in two years’ time.

Hearing residents’ concerns, on Feb. 21, the City Council initiated a moratorium in order to prevent any of the parks from converting for 45 days, and on April 4, that moratorium was extended for six more months. At that point, the Council initiated a permanent change to protect the seniorsonly parks by establishing a mobile home park overlay zone for seniors.

“Essentially, the code prevents any of the seniors-only mobile home parks to convert to all-age,” said Laura Stokes, the city’s housing coordinator and assistant planner. “It would keep them as they are, at 55 and over.”

The code went before the city’s Planning Commission in May and July, receiving a unanimous recommendation for Council approval.

Julie Paule of the Western Manufactured Housing Communities Association (WMA) was the lone speaker against the ordinance. Paule said WMA advocates for private property rights, which is why they are opposed to the code amendment.

“This action will actually harm your working families that are seeking affordable options in San Juan Capistrano,” Paule said. She later added that El Nido

The Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center is hosting a grand reopening fiesta on Saturday, Aug. 26. Photo: Allison Jarrell

and Rancho Alipaz have already given notice to go all-age, and the city will “likely have two lawsuits” coming its way to litigate the matter.

City Attorney Jeffrey Ballinger responded to Paule’s comments, saying that “at least one of the park owners, after the notice of the moratorium was sent out, initiated a process to potentially change the age-restricted nature of their park.” “…six months’ notice is required for the park owner to change their rules and regulations that are applicable to their park,” Ballinger said, quoting California Civil Code.

“Because that six-month time period had not expired by the time the city adopted its original moratorium, it’s staff’s belief and my belief that that change did not actually occur as a legal matter. It wasn’t perfected because of the statutory language.”

WHAT’S NEXT: With the Council’s unanimous approval, the new ordinance will take effect in September (30 days following the Aug. 15 adoption). —Allison Jarrell

Council Changes Mind, Votes to Support Widening of Ortega Highway THE LATEST: In addition to approving the city’s response to a recent Orange County Grand Jury Report, the San Juan Capistrano City Council also voted on Aug. 15 to publicly support the widening of Ortega Highway—a move that surprised some, given the Council’s previous opposition to the project.

The task at hand on Aug. 15 was for the Council to approve a response to a June 5 Orange County Grand Jury report, “Ortega Highway: Unnecessary Delays Have Cost Us Millions,” that claimed the Council’s inactions and delays to work on widening 0.9 miles of Ortega Highway have resulted in the loss of millions of dollars of taxpayer money.

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25-September 7, 2017

The 19-page report points to the Council’s January 2016 action to ultimately halt progress on the widening by reversing its December 2015 decision to execute a design engineering contract for the Lower Ortega Project. That action “took the city out of the role of lead agency and cost San Juan Capistrano residents $185,170 in ineligible expenditures and interest,” the report states.

“In rejecting the role as lead agency, the city also lost an advantage of having some influence over potential design aspects that could be tailored to the particular aesthetics and culture of San Juan Capistrano,” the grand jury states. “Ongoing project delays have resulted in the financial impact of millions of dollars to Orange County taxpayers due to increased project costs and continue to jeopardize the safety of Orange County residents.”

The January 2016 action referenced in the report was a 3-1-1 vote, with thenmayor Pam Patterson, Councilwoman Kerry Ferguson and then-Councilman John Perry voting to rescind a necessary contract for the project. Then-Councilman Sam Allevato voted against the motion, and Councilman Derek Reeve was absent.

On Aug. 15, it was Councilman Sergio Farias who brought up the idea of taking a vote to publicly support the widening of Ortega Highway, and Mayor Kerry Ferguson offered a second. Councilman Reeve suggested the statement, “The City of San Juan Capistrano supports Caltrans’ efforts to widen Ortega Highway according to the Lower Ortega Project.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The response to the Grand Jury was approved unanimously, and the Council voted 4-1, Councilwoman Pam Patterson opposed, to include a statement regarding the Council’s vote in favor of the widening.

FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —AJ

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THE LATEST: Members of the public are invited to help celebrate the completion of the restoration of the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center on Saturday, Aug. 26, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

The grand reopening fiesta, which is free to attend, will include cultural activities, food and drinks.

After more than two years of closures, the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum officially reopened to the public back in April.

Since then, the museum has been open on weekends to visitors while some minor renovations continued, like the installation of a native plants garden.

Domingo Belardes, of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, curates the museum and has been working diligently with the Blas Aguilar Adobe Foundation on restoring the adobe, creating the native garden, and restoring the courtyard between the Blas Aguilar Adobe and Casa Tejada, which features a well and an orno, or oven.

The Blas Aguilar Adobe is the last of 40 plaza adobes that were constructed in 1794 near the Mission to house soldiers and Acjachemen families. Don Blas Aguilar purchased the adobe, known then as Casa de Esperanza, in 1845, along with the neighboring Casa Tejada. Today, the museum aims to share early San Juan and Acjachemen history with those who visit.

WHAT’S NEXT: The museum and cultural center is located at 31806 El Camino Real in San Juan Capistrano. The museum is open Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment by calling Belardes at 949.751.7258. —AJ

Update: Trader Joe’s On Track to Open This Fall THE LATEST: The wait is almost over— Trader Joe’s has confirmed that its new grocery store in San Juan Capistrano is slated to open later this year.

On April 18, the City Council voted unanimously to issue a letter public convenience or necessity for alcohol sales at the incoming Trader Joe’s. That letter was the final city approval needed in order to have off-site alcohol sales at the store.

Trader Joe’s is set to occupy the former Big Lots space in the Mission Village Center at 32151 Camino Capistrano. Proposed hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily with a staff of 15 to 35 people depending on the season.

WHAT’S NEXT: Back in March, a (Cont. on page 4) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

• • • •• • •• • •

Trader Joe’s is slated to open the fourth quarter of this year in San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Allison Jarrell

(Cont. from page 3) representative from Art Rodriguez & Associates—which handled the application for alcohol sales on behalf of Trader Joe’s— had told the city’s Planning Commission that Trader Joe’s was anticipating a September opening. But it seems the store may take a little longer to open its doors.

Trader Joe’s spokeswoman Alison Mochizuki confirmed this month that the store is set to open the fourth quarter of this year. Mochizuki said a more specific opening date is not yet available. —AJ

Sovereign Health Files Motion to Unseal FBI Warrant for June Raid THE LATEST: The Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center, Inc., also known as Sovereign Health, filed a motion in federal court on Aug. 15, requesting a judge unseal the search warrant from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that allowed agents to conduct a raid on its facilities as well as the San Juan Capistrano home of its CEO, Tonmoy Sharma, on June 13.

Sovereign Health is claiming the investigations were “induced” by the insurance company Health Net, Inc. (Health Net) in order to gain favor of the insurance provider’s existing lawsuit with Sovereign and other healthcare companies.

“That and other aspects of the warrants suggest that the affidavit likely contains false and misleading information and omits other material information,” the motion stated. “Sovereign and Dr. Sharma thus seek to obtain a copy of the warrant in order to determine whether the searches were lawfully authorized, and to take appropriate action if they were not.”

When inquiring about the reasons behind the FBI raid on the Sovereign facilities, FBI spokesperson Laura Eimiller said on two separate occasions—once immediately following the raids and another at the beginning of August—that the warrants are under seal by a federal judge and that the bureau could not disclose the nature of its investigation. The FBI did confirm, however, that it was conducting an investigation at the company’s Southern California locations as well as Vedanta

Laboratories where agents were seen carrying out materials and speaking to employees on June 13.

The lawsuit claims that during the raids, the FBI illegally seized property “outside the scope of the authorized seizures, traumatizing both employees and patients” as well as being responsible for reputable damages to the company. Sovereign is also claiming the investigation pertains to insurance fraud because there is no “genuine concern of evidence destruction or witness intimidation” and therefore, should be unsealed, making the warrant documents public.

Counter to the alleged claims for the raid, Sovereign turns the fraud allegations finger to Health Net, citing their “checkered history of fraud and other unlawful… conduct.” Health Net provided insurance services to Sovereign’s clients, but those provisions soon became prohibitively expensive due to the increased demand and access to services, according to the lawsuit.

“On June 30, 2016, Sovereign filed a complaint against Health Net in the LosAngeles Superior Court, alleging bad faith, breach of contract and other state law claims resulting from Health Net’s wrongful denial of over $55 million in claims by Sovereign,” the lawsuit stated.

The Aug. 15, lawsuit mentions the insurance provider is currently under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice for Medicare claims fraud. Sovereign’s legal team said Health Net has provided millions in settlements for other investigations.

Sovereign Health has had a tumultuous relationship with the city of San Clemente for some time.

Since at least 2014, residents have staged protests in front of their corporate headquarters or other residential facilities in the city that are owned or operated by the company. Reasons behind the various protests against Sovereign Health range from complaints about continued disruptions to not following ordinances.

WHAT’S NEXT: A hearing on the case is requested in the suit for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 19, in U.S. District Court in Santa Ana. To read the full motion filed by Sovereign, view this story at www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —Eric Heinz

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25-September 7, 2017

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Community NEWS BITES Theme Announced for Meetings 60th Annual Swallows Day COMPILED BY STAFF

Parade

TUESDAY, AUG. 29

Because I Love You (BILY) Meeting

7-9 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. Presbyterian Church. 119 Avenida De La Estrella. www.bilysc.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 30

Downtown Farmers’ Market

3-7 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from dozens of vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday.

Visit www.farmersmarketsjc.com or call 949.493.4700 to find out more.

San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club

6:15-8 p.m. The Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano meets every Wednesday at the San Juan Hills Golf Club, located at 32120 San Juan Creek Road. For more information, visit www.sjcrotary.org.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 1

Coffee Chat

8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Hennessey’s Tavern, 31761 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

First Friday Film

7-9 p.m. The Friends of the Library presents a film at the La Sala Auditorium in the San Juan Capistrano Library the first Friday of each month. $2 donation supports the library. 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.2688, www.facebook.com/ SJCFriends.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 2

Free Saturday Film

10 a.m.-noon. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library welcomes families to enjoy free popcorn and a movie at La Sala Auditorium. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.248.5132. www.facebook.com/SJCFriends.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 5

City Council Meeting

5 p.m. The city’s governing body meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 8

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes

The San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association has announced the official theme for the 60th annual Swallows Day Parade— “Diamond Trails & Swallows Tales.”

The Fiesta Association held a contest on Facebook in July seeking ideas for the 60th parade theme. The winning idea came from Rachael Wendel, who was awarded with a gift card to Trevor’s at the Tracks.

The all-volunteer nonprofit organization hosts an array of events each year during the three-month Fiesta de las Golondrinas, which leads up to the Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire—one of the nation’s largest non-motorized parades. The 2018 Swallows Day Parade is set for March 24.

The Fiesta Association board’s next public meeting is Wednesday, Sept. 13, at the Nydegger Building, located at 31421 La Matanza Street in San Juan Capistrano.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for socializing and refreshments. The meetings generally run from 7-8 p.m. During the off-season, Fiesta meetings are every second Wednesday of the month.

The next major event for the organization will be the Farewell to the Swallows BBQ at Zoomars Petting Zoo on Saturday, Oct. 21, from noon to 4 p.m. Residents can also meet members of the association at the city’s final San Juan Summer Nites concert on Wednesday, Sept. 20, at Historic Town Center Park, located at 31852 El Camino Real.

Red Cross and Sport Clips to Give Free Haircut Coupons to Blood Donors The American Red Cross and Sport Clips Haircuts are teaming up in September to help replenish the blood supply by offering those who give blood or platelets a coupon for a free haircut.

Those who donate from Sept. 1-30 will receive a coupon for a free haircut via email several days after their donations, according to a press release.

“Blood and platelet donors of all blood types, especially types O negative and O positive, are urgently needed to replenish the blood supply following a critical summer blood shortage,” the release states.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in the area include: Sept. 7: 9:45 a.m.-2:45 p.m., South Coast Christian Church, 31501 Avenida Los Cerritos, San Juan Capistrano Sept.7: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coldwell Banker Beachside, 501 N. El Camino Real, Suite

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25-September 7, 2017

Members of the public are invited to attend a flag-raising event at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9, on Patriot Hill. Photo: Courtesy of Tom Baker

150, San Clemente Sept. 8: 1-7 p.m., San Clemente Community Center, 100 N Calle Seville, San Clemente Sept. 12: 12:30-6:30 p.m., Christ Lutheran Church, 35522 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente Sept. 14: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point Those interested can make an appointment to donate online at www.redcrossblood.org or by calling 1.800.733.2767.

Patriot Hill Flag Raising to Honor Sept. 11 Heroes, Lives Lost Members of the public are invited to attend an annual flag-raising event at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9, on Patriot Hill to honor the lost lives of Sept. 11 and to express gratitude for all the men and women who serve to protect our freedom. Join a group of hikers, runners, cyclists and equestrians who have kept the American flag flying on this San Juan Capistrano open space ridgeline since 2001.

There are steep inclines on all trails leading to Patriot Hill. Those interested in participating can request a trail map by emailing FlagOnTheHill92675@gmail.com or visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org. The map is under Departments-Public WorksOperations & Maintenance-Equestrian and Bike Trail/Open Space.

SOCSA to Hold Clothing and Textile Drive The Friends of South Orange County School of the Arts (SOCSA) and Clothes for the Cause are hosting a clothing and textile drive on Saturday, Sept. 16.

Items such as new or gently used clothing, paired shoes, towels, sheets, blankets,

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quilts, backpacks, curtains, purses, belts, tablecloths, placemats, stuffed animals and more are being collected for a fundraiser to benefit SOCSA. Items that won’t be accepted include glass, breakables, electronics, pet beds, pillows, carpeting, uniforms or bulk items from thrift stores.

Items can be dropped off at Dana Hills High School before 4 p.m. on Sept. 16.

Those who need items to be picked up can call Misti Blodgett at 949.463.6061.

City of San Clemente to Host Hike of Proposed Toll Road Routes The public is invited to join San Clemente City Council member Lori Donchak for a “Toll Road Trek” hike on the Forster Ridgeline Trail on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 9-10:30 a.m. The purpose of the hike is to help citizens learn more about the potential impacts of the alignments being studied by the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA). A naturalist will also participate in the hike and discussion.

The starting point for the three-mile hike is at the trail at Avenida La Pata and Camino Del Rio. Participants are asked to park on Camino Del Rio in Forster Ranch and to carpool if possible. This can be a strenuous three-mile hike on a dirt trail.

Wear tennis shoes, sunscreen, a hat and bring a water bottle. Dogs on leashes are welcome.

More information provided by the city about the proposed toll road is available at www.san-clemente.org/about-us/citynews/toll-road-information. For more information, call 949.361.8254 or email fergusonl@san-clemente.org.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

• • • •• • •• • •

News Next Door

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

FAM to Open Thrift Store on El Camino Real

Marie Kirk holds a “No Toll Road Through San Clemente” sign during the Joint Board Meeting of the Transportation Corridor Agencies on Aug. 10, at the agencies’ headquarters in Irvine. Photo: Eric Heinz

TCA Will Fight Lawsuits Filed Against it by City of San Clemente, The Reserve

BY ERIC HEINZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

F

ollowing a closed session meeting on Aug. 10, the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) voted to defend its position regarding the two lawsuits filed against the agencies by the city of San Clemente and The Reserve Maintenance Corporation, a homeowners’ association in San Clemente.

San Clemente Mayor Kathy Ward, who is a board member on the Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agencies, recused herself from the closed session portion as she voted at City Council’s closed session to authorize the city to file a lawsuit against the TCA. The lawsuit filed by the city of San Clemente seeks the court’s action to require the TCA to go through the process of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) before a settlement agreement is made. The settlement was completed between the TCA and various environmental groups in November 2016, which states so long as the TCA doesn’t build a toll road through an avoidance area, covering most of south of San Clemente and Trestles, the groups will be provided with a $28 million conservation fund.

In a statement from the TCA, read by the Joint Board Chairman Ed Sachs during the meeting, the agencies argued that

they had the authority to settle agreements related to lawsuits between it and local environmental groups. It also disputed claims against them that they violated California’s open meetings act, the Brown Act, when it settled those agreements in a closed session, which are not open to the public.

The TCA disputed claims that they were violating the California Environmental Quality Act, as it has not taken any steps to approve projects under the act. It also disputed claims regarding lack of CEQA processes related to the Oso Bridge project and converting a road in Rancho Mission Viejo into a toll road.

In order to figure out the traffic needs of South Orange County, the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) approved $649,000 to fund a traffic engineering performance assessment report and mobility in the area as well as some additional spending, if necessary.

Ward said the study should reflect data that will be compiled after the I-5 corridor expansion and Avenida La Pata expansions are complete, as data collected during construction times would not accurately reflect “normal” traffic.

The final vote to approve the expense included those points. Jeff Corless, spokesperson for the TCA, said officials will not commence studies until the major traffic projects have been completed.

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25-September 7, 2017

San Juan Capistrano City Councilman Brian Maryott concurred that the data should show the most accurate numbers, adding that he is “very anxious” about the possibility of a toll road being built through San Juan or any other neighboring city.

After a slew of complaints from members of the public who attended the third public forum hosted by the TCA on June 5 at Saddleback College, the agencies will look to formalize a disclaimer form for comments and questions made during public forums.

At the forum, TCA officials acknowledged security personnel “misinterpreted” what items were to be allowed and not allowed at the forum, such as signs showing favor or opposition to the toll road process.

Another problem people disputed was when the TCA collected comment cards from the public and intended to publish them online, people were unaware that their contact information was also published with the cards.

TCA officials said they took steps to correct the errors at the forum, but people at the public comment portion of the Aug. 10 meeting were unsatisfied, claiming the organization did not do all that it could to immediately correct the mistake. The next joint board meeting is scheduled to take place in October. CD

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Family Assistance Ministries (FAM), a local housing assistance program and food pantry with locations in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point, will open a thrift store in downtown San Clemente in the coming weeks.

Mary Perdue, the director of FAM, said volunteers have been helping with the renovation of the store as well as stocking it with clothing, furniture and other donated items.

The thrift store will be located at 540 and 542 (upstairs) N. El Camino Real.

“We’re very excited to help the community, and the income from the store will help our clients and get people into shelters to find permanent housing,” Perdue said.

In addition to the thrift store, Perdue said FAM has helped 93 homeless people find permanent housing or other assistance programs this year, 33 of whom were children. The FAMily House, which launched in April, has helped 52 of those people find housing options.

Perdue said the thrift store is expected to open sometime in September. People who want to volunteer at the store can send their resume to marc@family-assistance.org. —Eric Heinz

Dana Point Website will Provide Development Updates During their monthly development update at City Council, the city’s Economic Development division presented a micro website specifically for investors, visitors and new residents that will provide updates on current development projects.

The website has an interactive development pipeline with information about new projects in a geo-spatial manner.

According to the map, some projects under review include a resort hotel at Cannons, a bed and breakfast near Chart House, the former Dana Marina Inn and a site off Calle La Primavera. The site also shows potential development, approved projects and projects under construction.

The site can be viewed at www.aboutdanapoint.com.

According to the staff report, periodic zoning ordinance “clean ups” are a management practice utilized to ensure the city’s zoning ordinance provisions are clear and consistent with state law. City staff anticipates bringing an update to the Council by the close of the year.

The staff report indicates city staff has been working on updating the Historical Resources Inventory and will hold a workshop in September to present the updated inventory and educate the community on the benefits of historical preservation.

—Kristrina Pritchett www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Allison Jarrell, 949.388.7700, x108 ajarrell@thecapistranodispatch.com SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL Group Managing Editor > Rachael Mattice City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell City Editor, DP Times > Kristina Pritchett City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Tim Trent, Rachel Wilford, Heidi Mefferd, Danny Ritz

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 15, Issue 16. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly

by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (www. 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.

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Letters to the Editor DISGRACEFUL AMOUNT OF TRASH AT CITY ENTRANCE —Kathleen Mahan, San Juan Capistrano I haven’t seen any mention of this in The Dispatch, but it should be.

As I drive north on the I-5 freeway from Capo Beach or Dana Point and exit at the San Juan Creek exit, I can’t believe the amount of trash alongside the freeway and off-ramp. Doesn’t anyone else notice this and say anything to anyone who could remedy the situation? This is not a very pretty picture for one of the entrances to our city. It’s disgraceful.

What about all those “Adopt-A-Highway” signs? What, if anything, does that accomplish?

What can be done?

RESEARCHING THE TCA —Cord Bauer, San Clemente While researching the history of the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA), I found that while the projections for the toll roads were under $800 million, the final costs were over $4 billion. It’s breathtaking how the TCA blew past projections by $3 billion. It made me think of the Solyndra Scandal and how that cost taxpayers over $500 million, which is peanuts compared to the TCA. I found that 2.7 percent of OC residents work in San Diego County, while 22.7 percent work in L.A. County. Estimated ridership numbers on the toll roads still

haven’t been met, even after 20 years.

Surprisingly, traffic on Interstate 5 has been mostly stable for the past 20 years. A recent OCTA study backs this up.

During my research I also found an article from 2008, when the TCA chose the Green Alignment. It says, “But TCA notes that there were 38 alternatives studied, and they all failed for various reasons— primarily due to their negative effects on both natural habitats and homes and businesses,” said Jennifer Seaton, TCA spokeswoman.

I’d like to know how all these failed alignments are now back in play, when the only real changes are increased TCA debt and toll rates.

What checks and balances have they put in place to protect Orange County taxpayers? What’s stopping the TCA from feeding us more cost overruns and missed ridership projections with the next extension?

Perhaps the TCA is gambling that a revolving door of board members will stifle accountability. Maybe they want to pit one community against another in a bid for new toll routes. Either way, it’s been done before.

For 20 years the TCA has been doing the same things over and over and expecting different results. We need to dissolve the TCA to end this insanity.

SAN CLEMENTE TOLL ROAD AND TRAFFIC POLLUTION —Frederick Price, San Clemente According to a Los Angeles Times article published on Aug. 8, “L.A. needs to make sure air filters are being installed in homes near freeways,” the article stated, “... A mounting number of scientific studies link living near traffic pollution to asthma,

cancer, heart attacks, pre term births and an array of other health problems.”

This article went on to say that a 2016 ordinance, signed by Los Angeles City’s Mayor Eric Garcetti, requires “...new homes within 1,000 feet of a freeway to have air filters meeting a standard of 13 on a 16-point industry scale—the minimum efficiency reporting value—that measures how effectively they block tiny pollution particles.”

If the foregoing is true, and I have no reason to doubt that it isn’t; how can the Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) even consider building a toll road (Route 14) that will pass well within 1,000 feet of existing homes and San Clemente High School? Have they chosen to ignore well-established (and published) facts on the health hazards caused by freeways located too close to homes and schools? Or is it that they simply don’t care?

Ed Sachs, chairman of the Foothill/ Eastern Transportation Corridor Agencies, and Mayor Pro Tem of Mission Viejo (and his cohorts) have championed Route 14 through San Clemente as the best alternative to build a toll road. By doing so, they have shown a total disregard for the health and wellbeing of those affected by their erroneous decision.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@ thecapistranodispatch.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

A Big Thank You to Our Summer Interns THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

his summer, Picket Fence Media, which publishes the Dana Point Times, San Clemente Times, and The Capistrano Dispatch, helped guide four interns who were instrumental in providing content to our publications as well as our various special sections.

Danny Ritz will continue to help with coverage at Picket Fence Media, as he is still employed by the California State Parks. Danny decided a few years ago to take his career in a new direction, and journalism is his calling. He has covered topics for travel magazines, has a penchant for environmental reporting and has taken on a substantial workload for Picket Fence Media during his first three months assisting the company. Look for Danny’s work in the upcoming editions of our publications, as he will continue to contribute.

Erin McFaul is going into her sophomore year at the University of California-Los

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25-September 7, 2017

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT

Danny Ritz Erin McFaul Rachel Wilford Duane Paul Murphy Angeles and has already published numerous pieces for the campus paper The Daily Bruin in its arts and entertainment sections. McFaul was a key part of producing content for the Dana Point Times, and we enjoyed her enthusiasm in undertaking

Page 9

multiple stories.

Rachel Wilford is going into her final year of studying journalism at San Diego State University. Rachel enjoys writing stories across many different disciplines, and right off the bat, she was willing to take on assignments to help build her portfolio. Rachel did an excellent job reporting on several in-depth human interest stories and was an asset in assisting The Capistrano Dispatch in its coverage of local businesses during the summer.

Duane Paul Murphy is going into his junior year at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., and also as the op-ed editor of the campus publication, The Tower. Duane expressed an interest in covering politics from the start and helped cover a variety of topics for the San Clemente Times, from business to food and education. He has a passion for finding hidden stories and is looking to increase his depth in reporting. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List What’s going on in and around town

kids about the natural world around the Headlands. Programs are hands-on and generally geared toward kids and families.

Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center.

34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. For details and reservations contact friendsoftheheadlands@cox.net.

EDITOR’S PICK

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 25 MISSION ART WALK 11 a.m. A docent-guided tour highlighting the art collection of rare paintings related to the Mission’s history. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90-minute evening cruise aboard the luxury catamaran. The cruises run Friday and Sunday evenings. Tickets are $49. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

Saturday | 26 TALEGA RUN CLUB 7:30 a.m. Doing your first 5k or your 50th marathon? Run with other new and experienced runners starting at Peet’s Coffee in Talega every Saturday. The club hosts a fun three-mile course planned with several runners, adding miles depending on their training goals. This is a free run club with post-run goodies. 801 Avenida Talega, San Clemente.

SMART GARDENING SERIES: CREATING A BIRD & BUTTERFLY GARDEN 9:30-11 a.m. Join Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens and the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Master Gardeners throughout the year for free gardening classes. Reata Park and Event Center. 28632 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.606.6704. www.goinnative.net.

PRESERVING SUMMER TOMATOES WITH CARLA MOLLOY 10 a.m. Join The Ecology Center and master preserver Carla Malloy for a workshop on all things tomato preservation. The class is three hours long and open to any age. $60 for non-members, $50 for members. The Ecology Center. 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.443.4223. www.theecologycenter.org.

FRIENDS OF THE DANA POINT HEADLANDS CHILDREN’S PROGRAM 10 a.m. Join the monthly children’s programs at the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center every fourth Saturday of the month. The program is designed to teach

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. A day of live music kicks off with Flock of 80’s at 2:30 p.m. followed by Whiskey Ridge at 8:30 p.m.

Food from Lisa’s Kitchen will be available throughout the afternoon. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

BARKS & BREWS 4-7 p.m. “Bark” your calendar to celebrate National Dog Day at Outlets at San Clemente to sniff, schmooze and drink craft brews. Sip on cold beer from local breweries while enjoying live entertainment, a doggy costume contest with prizes, photo booths, a food truck, free treats and of course dog-friendly vendors for your fourlegged best friends. The event is free to attend. Beers are $5 for a 10-ounce pour, with all proceeds going directly to the Pet Project Foundation. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa. 949.595.8899. www.petprojectfoundation.org.

SIXTH ANNUAL HEROES NITE OUT 5-9 p.m. Local nonprofit Homefront America hosts its annual event honoring United States military men and women for their commitment and dedication to protecting residents’ freedoms, while also paying tribute to their supporting spouses.

The event includes dining, music, and a drawing/auction. Admission is $55 per person. All proceeds benefit programs for military families. The event is free for all active duty military. Serra Plaza, 31920 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano. www.homefrontamerica.org.

MAYWEATHER VS. MCGREGOR 5 p.m. The highly anticipated fight between combat sports’ highest-prized fighters—and biggest smack-talkers—will be broadcast at OC Tavern. Tickets are $25 at the door. The Tavern’s website says tickets are likely to sell out quick. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.542.8877. www.octavern.com.

FILM SCREENING OF ‘UNBROKEN GROUND’ 6:30-8:30 p.m. Join The Ecology Center for a movie screening of Patagonia Provisions’ newest documentary on the critical role food will play in the future.

Guests should bring a chair or blanket.

Admission is free, $10 suggested donation.

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

(Cont. on page 19)

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25-September 7, 2017

Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57 Media

SATURDAY, AUG. 26 & SUNDAY, AUG. 27: 17TH ANNUAL RANCHO MISSION VIEJO RODEO 1 p.m. The richest two-day rodeo in the nation returns with the top 30 contestants in saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping competing at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park at San Juan Capistrano. Gates open at 1 p.m. on Saturday with the rodeo starting at 4 p.m. On Sunday, gates open at 11:30 a.m. with a 1:30 p.m. rodeo. Saturday evening concludes with a performance by Grand Junction and dancing. $30 per day for adults, $10 for children 4-12, free for kids 3 and under. 30753 La Pata Road, San Juan Capistrano. For info on where to buy tickets, visit www.rmvrodeo.com.

ON THE MENU

CHICKEN TACOS FROM TACO SURF

STORY AND PHOTO BY ERIN MCFAUL

B

ehind yellow walls and doors plastered with decals and bumper stickers, Taco Surf provides a fun and casual experience for diners with beachthemed décor and freshly made Mexican cuisine.

The hard shell tacos are perfect for customers looking for a crunchy blast of flavor.

Also available in a soft corn tortilla, tacos come with a choice of beef, chicken, grilled fish or carnitas and are then stuffed with lettuce, pico, cheese and guacamole. Taco Surf offers large plates at affordable prices in addition to happy hour specials Monday

Page 10

through Thursday from 2-6 p.m. and Friday from 2-5 p.m. with $1.25 tacos and $2.50 select beers.

Owners George Blake and Dot VieriaBlake brought Taco Surf to Dana Point in 1999. Each of their five locations along the Southern California coast incorporates the duo’s favorite Mexican dishes, from shrimp tacos to fajitas. Before beginning their journey as restaurateurs, Blake previously worked in education and retail.

Taco Surf 34195 Coast Hwy, Dana Point 949.661.5754 www.tacosurf.com

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

San Juan Capistrano 2017 Football Preview Area teams ready for new season, challenges

BY STEVE BREAZEALE AND DANNY RITZ

It’s that time of year again, when the Friday night lights flicker on and hundreds of local football players take the field for the start of the new season. As usual, storylines abound in San Juan Capistrano. San Juan Hills lost a large senior class, but begin the year highly ranked in preseason polls. Over at JSerra, there is a new coach and a new vibe. St. Margaret’s already has a win under its belt, but it came at the cost of several key injuries. Saddleback Valley Christian lost its record-setting quarterback to graduation, and reloads, while Capistrano Valley Christian looks to find its footing in the second year of coach Rick Curtis’ tenure. It’s going to be another action-packed season. Follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports for in-game updates and scores all season long.

Newcomers and Veterans Poised to Lead San Juan Hills When looking around the field during a recent fall practice, San Juan Hills coach Aaron Flowers realized his roster is going to have some major production void to fill.

The Stallions graduated a large, and impactful, senior class that scored a fair amount of points. Just one of the skill position starters on this year’s team has scored a varsity touchdown.

“That’s totally rare,” Flowers said of the situation. “You usually have one or two (skill players returning) but that’s not the case.

We feel like we have younger guys that can fill those spots, they just haven’t shown it in a varsity game yet.”

The situation has led for a very competitive camp, Flowers said, and the Stallions return enough players at other positions that they are poised for another solid campaign.

San Juan Hills debuted as the No. 2-ranked team in the CIF-SS Division 4 preseason polls.

The lone returning starter that has scored in a varsity game is senior quarterback Doug Jackson. Jackson split time at the position last season with senior Matt Rodriguez, who returns. Jackson has won the starting job and possesses good agility and above-average arm strength, according to Flowers.

Play on both the offensive and defensive lines should be a major strength this season.

Lineman Sean Rhyan returns to lead an experienced group. Rhyan, who is 6-foot5-inches and weighs 300 pounds, was one of the hottest college recruits in Orange County this offseason. He picked up offers from nearly every Pac-12 school, including USC, UCLA, Washington and Stanford. He will also play on the defensive line.

Isaiah Grover and Gabriel Martinez return to the line as well.

“We have a lot of (lineman) that can play multiple spots,” Flowers said. “I’m hoping they’ll play well because that usually leads to a lot of good things.”

San Juan Hills will have a new defensive

After reaching the first round of the CIF-SS Division 3 playoffs one year ago, the San Juan Hills football will field a mix of veterans and newcomers in 2017.

Photo: Steve Breazeale

coordinator in Pete Silvey. Silvey inherits a group that returns several impact starters from last year.

Senior linebacker Austin Gifford recorded 74 tackles and an interception as a junior and will return to lead a unit that includes Morgan Derifield.

The secondary is full of experience and includes seniors Jackson Swift (cornerback) and Travis Lau (corner/safety). Swift had 40 tackles and two interceptions last season.

The Stallions nonleague schedule is dotted with high-profile matchups, including a rivalry game against Capistrano Valley, which appeared in a CIF-SS Championship game last year, and Edison, which won the CIF-SS Division 3 title in 2016.

San Juan Hills has always been competitive in the South Coast League, but will need to get past either Mission Viejo or San Clemente to enter the league’s upper echelon. —Steve Breazeale

SAN JUAN HILLS SCHEDULE DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION, TIME

8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/6* 10/13* 10/20* 10/27*

Dos Pueblos Canyon Capistrano Valley Edison Huntington Beach Great Oak Trabuco Hills Mission Viejo San Clemente Tesoro

DPHS, 7 p.m.

SJHHS, 7 p.m.

SJHHS, 7 p.m.

EHS, 7 p.m.

HBHS, 7 p.m.

SJHHS, 7 p.m.

THHS, 7 p.m.

SJHHS, 7 p.m.

SJHHS, 7 p.m.

THS, 7 p.m.

*League game

DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

New Coach, New Venue, New Season for JSerra Football It will be a season of “new” for the JSerra football team. The Lions have a new head coach, a new identity and a new stadium they can finally call home.

Replacing longtime head coach Jim Hartigan, who was let go in the offseason, is Pat Harlow, who has been on the Lions’ staff as an assistant the last few years.

Harlow, who played collegiately at USC and had a lengthy career in the NFL, inherits a talented and experienced team that will feature 13 returning starters. The Lions also got a boost from several key transfers.

JSerra will finally get the chance to play in front of a home crowd on campus in 2017.

The Lions got a new turf field and were granted permission to hold games there at night for the first time in school history.

In previous years JSerra played at nearby Saddleback College. The team’s Sept. 1 matchup against Alemany will be the first official home game.

Three-year starter Matt Robinson, a University of Montana commit, will be the key to the Lions’ offense. He threw for 2,053 yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior, and flashed his dual-threat running ability to the tune of 459 yards and five rushing touchdowns.

While he will again utilize his legs to extend plays, the senior signal caller spent the offseason working on maintaining more presence in the pocket, which his coach believe will help the Lions out tremendously moving forward.

“It’s almost like he is a completely different player,” Harlow said of Robinson.

“He’s always been a great athlete, but he’s become just a really good quarterback. He is understanding where receivers are going to be, throwing the ball on time, not bailing out when he doesn’t need to.”

The Lions have four running backs they will call upon, a group that includes senior Al Fisher, Eli Jefferson, Jamiel Henning and Anthony Ward.

Top horizontal: Eli Jefferson returns a kickoff during a JSerra fall training camp practice. Photo: Steve Breazeale

JSerra quarterback Matt Robinson is committed to the University of Montana. Photo: Steve Breazeale

Receiver Munir McClain, a transfer from Santa Margarita, will be a dynamic presence alongside fellow wideout Tarik Luckett.

The Lions offensive line returns senior standouts Jake Parks and Jack Bolduc.

Fisher (cornerback), junior Calvin Mouisset (safety) and TJ Medina (linebacker) return on defense. Santa Margarita transfer and UCLA commit Malik McClain has had a huge offseason and will lead the Lions’ pursuit at defensive end.

To prepare them for the final slate of games in the Trinity League, the Lions will play a tough nonleague schedule, which

includes matchups against three teams ranked in their respective division’s top-10 preseason polls.

JSerra, which enters 2017 ranked No. 7 in Division 1, tied for fourth-place in the ubercompetitive Trinity League last season. The league features the No. 1-ranked team in the nation in Mater Dei, perennial powerhouse St. John Bosco and regional rivals like Santa Margarita and Orange Lutheran.

“I think we’ll compete well in league,” Robinson said. “This team is definitely the best team I’ve been on and I think we’re going to do some big things.”—SB

JSERRA’S SCHEDULE DATE

8/25 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 10/6* 10/13* 10/20* 10/27* 11/3* Pat Harlow enters his first year as the head coach of the JSerra football program. Photo: Steve Breazeale

OPPONENT

LOCATION, TIME

Corona del Mar Alemany Bishop Amat Vista Murrieta Los Alamitos Servite Orange Lutheran Mater Dei Santa Margarita St. John Bosco

Newport Harbor HS, 7 p.m.

JSerra, 7 p.m.

JSerra, 7 p.m.

VMHS, 7 p.m.

JSerra, 7 p.m.

Cerritos College, 7 p.m.

Orange Coast College, 7 p.m.

Santa Ana Stadium, 7 p.m.

JSerra, 7 p.m.

JSerra, 7 p.m. *League game

DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Senior running back Marcus Knight ran for three touchdowns in St. Margaret’s season-opening win in Hawaii on Aug. 18. Photo: John Cole/Pro Action Photo

Early Challenges Haven’t Slowed St. Margaret’s Down For the second season in a row, the St. Margaret’s football team traveled to Hawaii to play its season-opener.

The Tartans performed well on the Big Island and beat Kealakehe 34-14 on Aug. 18, picking up the all-important first win of the season.

While it was a memorable and successful trip for many of the players, it came at a cost.

Several Tartans suffered multiple injuries during the game, the most significant being to returning junior running back Koa Todd, who hurt his knee and will be out for the remainder of the season.

Todd, who had a respectable sophomore campaign, was slated to be a key contributor at running back and linebacker this season.

Returning junior receiver/linebacker Nick Falshaw broke his ankle during the game, and will be out for several weeks.

The Tartans will also head into the second week of the season without head coach Stephen Barbee, who is away from the team dealing with an undisclosed medical issue.

Rob Healy, the team’s offensive coordinator, is serving as interim head coach until Barbee returns.

Every year a football team deals with injuries and issues, Healy acknowledged. This

year the Tartans are having to deal with both right out of the gate.

“You can’t believe the team bond and togetherness that goes on here. It’s that bond that pulls us through challenging times and will with this adversity,” Healy said.

“When you lose a couple players you look to the guys next to you and that’s what they’ve done. The team has rallied and performed well.”

While a few pieces are missing, the larger whole of the team is intact and it is filled with impact players that could carry St. Margaret’s to yet another playoff berth.

Healy hailed returning senior receiver and Penn commit Ryan Cragun as “one of the best players in the history of the school”.

Cragun recorded over 1,000 yards receiving and 22 touchdowns as a junior. He is also one of the team’s lockdown cornerbacks.

The quarterback position has always been a prominent one at St. Margaret’s and this year James Mott will step into the role.

Mott burst onto the scene last year when he started the final regular season game against Crean Lutheran, passing for three touchdowns and running for two more in a 49-7 win. Mott’s play powered the Tartans to a passing league win at the Battle of the Hills 7-on-7 event this offseason.

Senior running back and receiver Marcus Knight had a breakout game in Hawaii and

ST. MARGARET’S SCHEDULE DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION, TIME

8/18 8/31

Kealakehe Calvary Chapel

9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29* 10/6 10/14 10/27* 11/3*

Valley Christian Bishop’s Laguna Beach St. Pius X-St. Matthias Academy Grace Brethren Nordhoff Crean Lutheran Orange Vista

Win, 34-14 Orange Coast College, 7:30 p.m.

SMES, 7 p.m.

SMES, 7 p.m.

LBHS, 7 p.m.

St. Pius, 7 p.m.

SMES, 7 p.m.

SMES, 3:30 p.m.

CLHS, 7 p.m.

OVHS, 7 p.m.

*League game

rushed for three touchdowns.

Seniors Max Martinez and Ryan Gottlieb return to both the offensive and defensive lines. Senior Brandon Wu will bring experience at cornerback.

The Tartans will have two new linebackers in junior Jack Young and sophomore Caden Smith, who Healy says can be an impact player right away.

The Tartans spent 2016 as a freelance team, with no league affiliation. This year, the Academy League is back, and will feature the Tartans, Crean Lutheran, Orange

Vista of Perris and St. Pius X-St. Matthias Academy of Downey.

Now that they have a league to play in, the Tartans do not have to worry about earning an at-large berth to get into the playoffs. If they finish top-2 in league, they will be in.

“We’re not subject to getting some unlucky situation now. We’re in control of our own playoff destiny,” Healy said. “But our goal is to win league. We’ve got some tough teams in it, and we’re excited about the Academy League being back again.”—SB

DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Warriors Look to Continue Winning Ways Saddleback Valley Christian football coach Brendan Chambers beamed with confidence when asked about his team’s desire to defend its San Joaquin League title in 2017.

The Warriors have won 11 straight league titles, and went undefeated in league play one year ago.

Strong Crop of Juniors Return to Lead the Eagles Following a tough 2016 season that saw his team go 2-8, including a winless record in league play, Capistrano Valley Christian football coach Rick Curtis is optimistic about his sophomore campaign.

“We lost some great players, but this year we are actually more experienced than last year,” Curtis said. “We have a good number of highly skilled returning players that are now more familiar with the game and our program.”

What the Eagles lack in numbers, and in terms of senior experience, Curtis says they make up for in quality.

CVCS returns a strong crop of linemen that will be playing both ways, including senior center and defensive end Keston

Kajitani and senior guard and nose tackle Colin Thornton.

“We hope our interior lineman will lead from the inside out,” Curtis said.

A large junior class makes up a majority of CVCS’s roster. These juniors return for a second full year under Curtis, who took over the program in 2016. They have adopted a more expansive weight training and offseason training regimen since Curtis took the reins.

Seth Yu, a transfer, will be among the Eagles’ key skill position players, playing running back and defensive back. Joining him on the players to watch list will be Trey Henry (running back/linebacker) and Kegan Babick (running back/linebacker).

CVCS kicks off its season against Tri-City Christian on Aug. 25 at San Clemente High School. —Danny Ritz

“No one wants to be a part of disappointing a dynasty,” Chambers said of his team’s mindset. “They show up and they work for that every day.’

After losing their All-League leader and on-field powerhouse quarterback Cade Henjum to graduation, Chambers and his squad are adopting a new philosophy in 2017.

“We’re a young but very talented team.

We’re going to keep it simple, and I think we can do that really well,” Chambers said.

Stepping up and filling the quarterback role will be junior Mason Allen. Chambers said Allen has big arm strength and pos-

sesses a classic drop-back, game-management style.

“I’ve never seen anything like (his style) at this level,” said Chambers, who was a school record-setting quarterback while at SVC. Allen’s precision passing complements a dynamic contingent of returning offensive threats, including Jack Deavila and Jackson Greene, who combined for 1,892 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns last season.

“We’re exciting on the outside. Our speed is our strength,” Chambers said of his receivers.

Anchoring the defensive side of the ball will be junior Donte Seltzer. At 6-foot-tall, 230 pounds, Seltzer looks the part of the prototypical middle linebacker. He returns to play the position after recording 153 tackles last season and will be a force against opposing offenses.

Tanner Jackson, Jackson Combs and Cade Carter make up a trio of transfers that have little experience but promising upside.—DR

L to R: Micah Mink, Jackson Greene, Jack de Avila, Jonah Tolmaire and Daniel House will lead the SVC football team in 2017. Photo: Danny Ritz

CAPISTRANO VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHEDULE

SADDLEBACK VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHEDULE

DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION, TIME

DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION, TIME

8/25 9/1 9/8 9/14 9/29 10/5* 10/13* 10/20* 10/28* 11/3*

Tri-City Christian Riverside Prep St. Bernard Calvary Murrieta Mark Keppel The Webb Schools Fairmont Prep Santa Clarita Christian Southlands Christian Nogales Saddleback Valley Christian

San Clemente HS, 7 p.m.

RPHS, 7 p.m.

Capistrano Valley HS, 7 p.m.

Capistrano Valley HS, 7 p.m.

Capistrano Valley HS, 7 p.m.

Damien, 7:30 p.m.

Capistrano Valley HS, 7 p.m.

SCCHS, 7 p.m.

Nogales HS, 5 p.m.

San Clemente HS, 7 p.m.

8/26 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/29 10/5* 10/13* 10/19* 10/27* 11/3*

Northwood Baldwin Park Escondido Charter El Toro Boron Santa Clarita Christian Southlands Christian Fairmont Prep The Webb Schools Capistrano Valley Christian

Northwood, 7 p.m.

Trabuco Hills HS, 7 p.m.

Trabuco Hills HS, 7 p.m.

ETHS, 7 p.m.

BHS, 7 p.m.

Trabuco Hills HS, 7 p.m.

Rowland Heights HS, 7 p.m.

Yorba Linda HS, 7 p.m.

Trabuco Hills HS, 7 p.m.

San Clemente HS, 7 p.m.

*League game

*League game

• • • • •• • •• • • • (Cont. from page 10) BAD TO THE BONE BBQ RODEO PARTY 7 p.m. Bad to the Bone BBQ hosts their annual rodeo party at the restaurant. The event includes live music and a rodeoinspired dinner for purchase. Musician Danny Griego takes the stage in front of the restaurant at 7 p.m. 31738 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano. www. badtothebonebbq.com.

LASS YOUR AFF OFF! 7:30 p.m. Adele’s monthly Lass Your Aff Off! comedy show will feature comedians from television, radio and comedy clubs across the U.S., produced by veteran comedian Tom Riehl. This month’s headliner is Tony Calabrese. To purchase tickets, visit www.comedyintheoc.com. Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn, 2600 Avenida Del Presidente. 949.481.1222. www.adelesanclementeinn.com.

Sunday | 27 SERRA CHAPEL TOUR 11:15 a.m.-noon. In honor of Saint Serra’s 300th birthday celebration, the Mission is offering guests the chance to enjoy a private tour of the Serra Chapel, the most historically significant chapel in California, every Sunday. $2-3 in addition to regular admission. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

BEND & BREW 11:30 a.m. iHeartYoga holds a Bend & Brew session at Left Coast Brewing Company in San Clemente. It’s a one-hour yoga class followed by a pint of beer. Admission $10. 1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente.

949.363.3152. www.iheartyoga.com.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAYS Noon-3 p.m. Listen to live performances every Sunday. Stillwater Spirits and Sounds.

24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.com.

FOREIGN FILM AT DANA POINT LIBRARY 3-4:45 p.m. A foreign film is shown on the fourth Sunday of each month. Registration is not required. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.

Monday | 28 WOMEN OF SURFING: ART & HISTORY Surfing Heritage & Culture Center (SHACC) has partnered with the Huntington Beach Art Center (HBAC) for the Women of Surfing: Art & History, the art center’s second exhibition of a threepart-series celebrating women in the arts, delving into the artworks of national and international artists who have an intimate relationship with the ocean and the sport of surfing. The exhibit runs until Sept. 2. 110 Calle Iglesia, San Clemente.

949.388.0313. www.surfingheritage.org.

YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this summer. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

Tuesday | 29 HARBOR TIME CAPSULE DEDICATION 10 a.m. The County of Orange will dedicate a Dana Point Harbor 50-year time capsule commemorative plaque at Baby Beach. A celebration of the one-year anniversary of the 50-year time capsule celebration will occur, as well as the unveiling of the new commemorative plaque. Baby Beach. Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

Photo: Claudette Barius/Fingerprint Releasing/Bleecker Street

At the Movies: Soderbergh Makes ‘Logan Lucky’

Wednesday | 30 SUMMER JAZZ WEDNESDAYS 6-8 p.m. During the last show of the series, the Laguna Beach All Stars will perform, along with an array of musicians that have been featured during the concert series.

Tickets can be purchased online for $25 for table seating, $20 for side seating.

Tickets at the door are $25-$30. Reservations are accepted until noon on the day of the concert or until sold out. Hotel Laguna, Rose Garden. 425 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach. 949.715.9713. www.lagunabeachlive.org.

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

C

inematic auteur Steven Soderbergh is an intriguing enigma. He made the successful transition from indie filmmaker to studio director effortlessly, being one of only two directors to ever be nominated for “Best Director” twice in the same year. His public image has mystique too, with multiple pseudonyms behind the scenes, sometimes with bizarre interview gimmicks and erroneously announcing an early retirement in 2013, only to go back to work with Logan Lucky, which is now in theaters.

On the West Virginia border, blue-collar laborer Jimmy Logan (Channing Tatum) loses his job and is about to lose his daughter when he discovers his ex-wife, Bobbi Jo (Katie Holmes), and her new husband are moving the family out of state.

As a quick way to make some big money,

Thursday | 31 LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens’ volunteers, students and teachers at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park. Help care for and maintain native plants and butterflies while enjoying a little dirt therapy and friendship. Every Thursday. No experience needed. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

READ TO A DOG 3-4 p.m. Kids can read to licensed therapy dogs every other Thursday at the San Juan Capistrano Library. Studies have shown that reading to therapy dogs can improve children’s reading skills and self-confidence. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/ libloc/sjc.

Friday | 01 FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7-9 p.m. The Friends of the Library presents a film at the La Sala Auditorium in the San Juan Capistrano Library the first Friday of each month. $2 donation supports the library. 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.2688, www.facebook.com/ SJCFriends.

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25–September 7, 2017

Saturday | 02 FREE SATURDAY FILM 10 a.m.-noon. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library welcomes families to enjoy free popcorn and a movie at La Sala Auditorium. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.248.5132. www. facebook.com/SJCFriends.

CASPERS PARK FOUNDATION NATURE TALK 10-11 a.m. This nature-themed lecture is held in association with the monthly meeting of Caspers Park Foundation (CPF) volunteers. This month’s subject is the Starr Ranch Audubon. Reservations are not necessary, so call the Caspers Park Foundation for accurate seat availability.

Parking fee is $5. 949.923.2210. CaspersParkFoundation@gmail.com. www. rmvreserve.org.

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Jimmy recruits his brother, Clyde (Adam Driver), to come up with a scheme to rob the Charlotte Motor Speedway, along with their sister, Mellie (Riley Keough), and convicted safecracker, Joe Bang (Daniel Craig).

Seth MacFarlane, Sebastian St an and Hilary Swank also make up some of the big-name cast. Logan Lucky is a solid, straightforward heist flick, akin to a southern Ocean’s Eleven (2001), also from Soderbergh. With his usual pseudonyms as cinematographer, editor and screenwriter, Soderbergh reminds us that even with a big budget he hasn’t abandoned his indie roots and doesn’t feel the need to pander. With NASCAR inside jokes and a guitar-heavy score surrounding a backwoods atmosphere with an amusing ensemble cast, Logan is a decent way to end the summer movie season. CD

FALL GARDENING 101 2-4 p.m. Join The Ecology Center for a workshop on gardening in the fall. Each participant will take home a sample of compost and a seasonal planting chart. $20-$30.

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

Sunday | 03 LIVE MUSIC: RYE BROTHERS 2:30-7:30 p.m. The Rye Brothers perform at the Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to The Capistrano Dispatch by going to www.thecapistranodispatch.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

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SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love after 50 by Tom Blake

Widow Puzzled by a Friend’s Warning

R

obyn, 62, a widow of five and a half years, contacted me regarding a comment made to her about waiting too long to start dating again.

Robyn emailed, “I am curious about something, after being told recently by a friend that ‘If you wait too long, you will get used to being alone, and attempts at re-partnering will become futile.’

“I was married 32 years. After the first year of widowhood, I entered a very shortterm relationship, and then six months later, began a relationship that lasted just over two years. I ended the latter relationship (it was going off the rails anyway), as I felt that I needed more time to sort things out and set a new course in life.

“I do wish to re-partner at some point, but feel I am not quite ready to make any overt move in that direction. I have signaled to a couple of trusted contacts that I am open to meeting their single male friends, but am in no great rush to do so.

“However, is there a point of no return, as my friend has suggested? I have read stories of people getting to a place in their lives where they thought they would be alone forever, only to find a most wonderful person to spend their later years with.

My response to Robyn: You say you wish to re-partner, but aren’t ready to make any “overt” move in that direction.

I assume what that means is you aren’t ready to actively look for a potential mate.

However, I think you may be more willing than you realize since you wisely have signaled to a couple of contacts that you are open to meeting single men.

For people 60-plus, networking through

acquaintances and friends is one of the most important steps they can take to meet potential mates. Continue to do that. Your friend suggested if you wait too long, you will get used to being alone, and attempts at re-partnering will become futile. Is there a point of no return? Absolutely not.

Nothing is farther from the truth. Becoming comfortable living alone can be an important and attractive characteristic to have.

Often, older singles are so lonely, they look too hard and come off as desperate and needy. But in your case, you invested the time to discover who you truly are, and you are comfortable in your own skin, which is a trait that men admire.

But, sitting back and doing nothing isn’t a great idea either. You need to live life with or without a mate. Get more involved in activities that interest you. Meet new people. Develop friendships with women, which ON LIFE AND can make going places LOVE AFTER 50 easier since you’ll have

By Tom Blake friends to tag along with.

Yes, we often hear that singles meet a new mate when they least expect it. But, that doesn’t happen by being reclusive and thinking they’d be alone forever. It happens because they are enjoying life and socializing.

So, no, you aren’t past the point of no return. Just crank it up a bit. Plus, the fact that you were involved in two relationships since you were widowed is a good thing.

That means you are open to sharing your life, but, of course, with the right person, and not just anybody who comes along.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middleaged dating. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50. com. Email: 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 The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

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 Solution:

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25–September 7, 2017

Photos: Eric Heinz

Local ballroom dance studio Bumpin Ballroom held a fundraising event on Aug. 12 to help support their expansion to a new location in San Juan, which will { I N S AN JUAN } allow for more youth programs and events. Since the event, the studio has successfully moved to 32953 Calle Perfecto. For more information, visit www.bumpinballroom.com.

SCENE

Photo: Courtesy of Orange County Archives

FROM THE ARCHIVES

T

oday we’re launching a new feature in print and online, “From the Archives,” where we’ll feature one photograph each week that gives a peak into San Juan Capistrano’s storied past.

Every Friday, we’ll post the week’s historic photo on social media, and once

a month we’ll compile the four we chose into a gallery on our website.

In this photo from the Willard Smith Collection, circa 1929, a group of local officials, including Orange County Supervisors Willard Smith and William Schumacher, stand on horses while inspecting the future site of the Ortega Highway. CD

Do you have a vintage image you’d like to see featured?

Email submissions to ajarrell@picketfencemedia.com, along with a brief caption and photo credit.

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www.thecapistranodispatch.com

• • • •• •• •• •

Top: A photo of Don Juan Avila that was digitally reproduced by the USC Digital Library. Photo: California Historical Society Collection at USC Bottom: The Don Juan Avila Adobe, as seen today. Photo: Allison Jarrell

GUEST OPINION: Then & Now by Rhonda deHaan

A Race for the Ages

D

uring a recent trip to the library, I found a book about the role of the cattle industry in the state’s history.

This may not be the first choice of many people, but I was intrigued. I sat down with it, and the first thing I did was find all references to San Juan Capistrano (of course). I came across a story about Don Juan Avila that I thought would be fun to share.

Avila is one of Southern California’s prominent families, and Don Juan Avila played an integral role in the history of San Juan Capistrano. Juan Avila was a successful cattle rancher, and he and his wife, Soledad, were well known for their generosity and hospitality. It is said that they hosted grand fiestas, and travelers were often entertained in their home.

Horse racing was a popular amusement of the great rancheros during the mid-1800s, and Avila had a passion for it.

Former governor Pío Pico was also an enthusiast, and the story goes that there was a great race between “the two most famous horses of the time—Juan Avila’s Coyote and Pío Pico’s Azulejo.”

The terms were agreed to and the stakes were set. And, as the race drew near, excitement grew and wagers were made.

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Opposing factions published challenges in local newspaper notices and taunted each other into making ever larger bets.

The results of the race were reported in the Los Angeles Star: “a great race came off at San Juan…between Don Pío Pico’s horse Azulejo and Don Juan Avila’s horse Coyote. The race was won by the former.

A great deal of money changed hands on the decision.”

It was added that “one backer of Azulejo won at least $8,000 on the race”—quite a tidy sum in those days!

(The book referenced in this article is: The Cattle on a Thousand Hills: Southern California 1850-1880 by Robert Glass Cleland. The HunTHEN AND NOW tington Library, 1990.)

By Rhonda Rhonda deHaan is a deHann resident of San Juan Capistrano who enjoys sharing fun photographic finds as she continues to learn more about this unique town. She is a proud mother of two, a freelance writer, and a member of the SJC Friends of the Library and San Juan Capistrano Historical Society Board of Directors. She is serving her fourth term as a member of the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission. 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 The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

• • • •• •• •• •

(From left) Quothia Wolf, 25, of Irvine; Mary Thompson, 20, of Costa Mesa; and Raymond Arebalo, Jr., 32, of Anaheim, gaze at the eclipse in Caspers Wilderness Park.

Hundreds Head to San Juan Capistrano for Solar Eclipse PHOTOS AND TEXT BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

stronomer Alan White brought 15 pairs of solar eclipse glasses with him to Caspers Wilderness Park on Aug. 21.

White had decided to organize a viewing of the solar eclipse after his plans to travel to Casper, Wyoming fell through.

He rounded up a few of his astronomer friends and volunteers, and together they brought a total of five high-end telescopes with solar filters to the park’s nature center.

White, who also holds a star party at Caspers every Saturday of a new moon, told park officials that anyone visiting the nature center during the Great American Eclipse could take advantage of the telescopes. They decided to post the event to the OC Parks website, thinking they wouldn’t get too many takers on a Monday morning.

But as the cars began to line up, White had a suspicion the 15 pairs of glasses he brought wouldn’t last too long.

And he was right.

Hundreds of people flocked to the nature center parking lot to catch a glimpse of the rare solar eclipse, even though totality couldn’t be seen in Southern California.

San Juan Capistrano saw 60.3 percent coverage, with the peak of the partial eclipse at 10:22 a.m.

Caspers’ parking lots filled up just before 10 a.m. One volunteer said roughly 50 cars had been turned away by the end of the event due to lack of parking.

White suspects it was coverage in local and regional newspapers that brought people in droves to the park.

“Earlier, I had 500 (people) here. It was just solid in here,” White said while standing in the nature center parking lot. “It was crazy. It was never meant to be that. But it turned out alright.”

Even after the peak of the eclipse, hundreds of people continued to explore the nature center, walking around with their glasses on or standing in line to view the eclipse through one of the in-demand telescopes.

One such group of people included Mary Thompson, 20, of Costa Mesa; Quothia Wolf, 25, of Irvine; and Raymond Arebalo, Jr., 32, of Anaheim. The trio made last-minute plans to see the eclipse,

trekking to Caspers on only a few hours of sleep.

They didn’t come prepared with eclipse glasses or viewing devices, but Arebalo said fortunately a man with a 10-pack was selling his extras for $5 a pop in the parking lot. (They appreciated the reasonable price after seeing paper glasses being sold for $15, $30 or even $50 online and elsewhere.)

Thompson said she would consider traveling to the path of totality for the next eclipse, so she can experience the “day-tonight” phenomenon. But she appreciated the beauty of the partial view.

“It’s a once in a lifetime experience,”

Thompson said. “It’s fascinating.”

Astronomer Val Aikins was one of the volunteers helping White man the telescopes throughout the morning. Aikins explained that the special equipment offered guests two unique views of the eclipse.

Two of the telescopes showed the sun in hydrogen alpha light, which allowed people to see small prominences, or hydrogen gas ejections, along the edge of the sun. It was a rare treat, Aikins explained, because those prominences are something people in the path of totality are able to see with just their glasses or binoculars.

“We can see them, and we don’t even have to be there,” he said.

The other three telescopes—including White’s large Schmidt–Cassegrain— showed the sun in white light, which allowed guests to see sun spots. These spots, White noted, are about six times the size of the earth.

As the morning progressed, groups of friends could be seen helping each other take creative sun selfies, while others aimed their cell phones at telescope eyepieces to capture the moment. Visitors waiting in line could be heard repeating iterations of, “Hi, do you have eclipse glasses? Here, look through mine.” The small acts of generosity brought smiles to the faces of young and old alike.

Elementary school teacher Tina Hurney, of Westminster, wore her excitement on her sleeve—her shirt, sprinkled with stars and crescent moons, stood out in the sea of spectators.

Hurney had decided to stay at a hotel in San Juan on Sunday night so she could get an early start the next morning. After gazing at the eclipsed sun through one of the telescopes, she reflected on her favorite part of the day—the excitement and energy of the crowd.

“What a wonderful event to share with the masses in a time our country needs to be brought together,” she smiled. “This brought us all together.” CD

Clockwise from left: Visitors and volunteers use an array of telescopes with solar filters to view the solar eclipse on Aug. 21 in Caspers Wilderness Park; The solar eclipse, as seen through the eyepiece of a white-light telescope; Jessica Pomares, of Lake Forest, lifts her 5-year-old son, Dominic, so he can get a better view of the eclipse through a telescope.

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25–September 7, 2017

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• • • •• •• •• • GUEST OPINION: Dirt Therapy by Marianne Taylor

Preparing Your Cooler Crops Vegetable Garden

S

ummer is traditionally the peak time for harvesting the abundance grown from the vegetable garden. Sharing our delicious summer crops with friends and neighbors, some of us found the time to can or ferment what was left over from the season. Although the dog days of summer are still here, this is the ideal time to start preparing the garden beds for fall.

Milder and wetter fall weather allows a multitude of flavorful crops to thrive, such Carrots grow well in a fall garden. Photo: File as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower and kale, just to name a few. Insects are 4. Loosen the soil: If it’s gotten comless of a bother as they pacted during the summer, fluff it up with hide from the cold, and a garden fork—no major tilling—just the soil has better hydraenough to let the new plant roots grow tion retention as the dayand absorb water. light is decreasing and 5. Amend the soil: Work in some comthe night temperatures post, and be sure to have your planting laybegin to drop. out done before adding compost. You can If you want to start add individual amendments or a general your plants from seeds, organic fertilizer to increase nutrients for this is the time to sow plants.

DIRT THERAPY

By Marrianne your seeds before the 6. Rake the garden site evenly: Remove Taylor night temperature drops any clumps and create furrow to catch the around Halloween. If you choose to work water. with a six-pack of four-inch plants, SepOf course, if this all sounds like too tember is the best time to get plants in the much work, or if you’d like a rest for the ground, giving them time fall, you can always sow a to mature before the cold green manure or cover crop The best vegetables for a nights set in. and let your garden tend fall garden include: Preparing the soil will be itself until spring.

• Beets easy if you’ve been tending Want to learn more about • Bok Choy a vegetable garden and have fall vegetable gardens? Join • Broccoli kept up with the weeding, us at Fall Fest on Oct. 14 • Bush beans removal of diseased or spent from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Reata • Cabbage plants, and didn’t walk on Park and Event Center in • Carrots the soil. All you will need to San Juan Capistrano. General • Cauliflower do is clear the beds from the admission is $5, and children • Kale old plantings, aerate the soil, under 5 get in free. The event • Lettuce add some compost on top, will include guest speakers, • Peas and begin planting. exhibitors, activities for chil• Radishes Alternatively, say the dren, bluegrass music, food • Spinach summer got away from you trucks, craft beer and wine.

• Swiss Chard and your vegetable garden Proceeds from the event • Turnips/Rutabagas is a mess. Don’t worry— benefit Goin Native Therathe same easy steps apply: peutic Gardens’ educational weed, remove dead and diseased plants, programs. For more information, visit remove fallen fruit or vegetables, loosen www.goinnative.net. the soil, add compost and plant.

Marianne Taylor, of San Juan CapistPrepping the fall garden: rano, is the founder and executive director 1. Weed: Remove the plants that have of Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens, a taken over the garden or that are no 501(c)(3) teaching gardening and life longer producing. You may keep tomatoes skills as a way of empowering, engaging plants and herbs. and connecting people. Goin Native focuses 2. Remove diseased plants, spent plants on educating local families, special needs and fallen fruits: These plants harbor pests adults, seniors, at-risk youth and members that will feed on your new plants. Only keep of the military. CD plants that are healthy and still producing.

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch 3. Freshen the soil: Remove the top layer provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columof mulch and set aside. If it’s in good connists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not dition, reuse after planting. If not, use in reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. another area. Straw and shredded leaves If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com make great mulch, too.

Page 23

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• • • •• •• •• •

For the Love of Dance

Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano celebrates 25 years

BY RACHEL WILFORD, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

t’s difficult, maybe impossible, to watch a Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano performance without smiling. The upbeat music, the colorful costumes, the dancers beaming with pride—for more than two decades, locals have looked forward to the troupe’s performances at city events year-round.

More importantly, the ballet folklorico program in San Juan has kept an important part of the town’s culture alive.

Despite some setbacks, the program’s dedicated director has continued the folklorico tradition, and this year, the afterschool dance program for children and teens is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

The term “ballet folklorico” represents a type of traditional dancing which comes from various regions within Mexico. Maricella Moreno, the director of Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano, describes this type of dance as colorful, story-telling movement with a lot of meaning.

Moreno has been running the program since the city of San Juan Capistrano created it in 1992, and she said the dance program was originally created with latchkey kids in mind. The city’s Community Services department, which Moreno worked in for 30 years, developed an array of programs and beneficial activities that kids could go to after school.

The ballet folklorico program began with a mere five students and continued to grow by word of mouth. The city was able to put together a budget in order to provide costumes for the students for the various performances that they would do at different city events.

However, about six years ago, Community Services had to discontinue the ballet folklorico program due to budget cuts. Moreno was devastated that she was going to lose her program.

“I was enjoying what the program was doing,” Moreno said. “I saw the program grow, I saw the kids grow, and I saw how the parents were so involved. I had been with the program for close to 20 years. I couldn’t see myself telling the kids and the parents that there was no more program. I just couldn’t let it die.”

Moreno made a proposal to the board of the Blas Aguilar Adobe Foundation, asking that the ballet folklorico program be adopted under the foundation as a nonprofit organization. The board agreed, ultimately saving the program.

“We still represent the city,” Moreno

It’s tradition for Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano to perform each year at the city’s tree lighting ceremony.

Photos: Allison Jarrell

said. “But now there are more opportunities out there for us since we are a nonprofit. Since we are under the umbrella of the Blas Aguilar Adobe Foundation, they are able to help us and we are able to help them.”

Moreno has always found a way for students to be a part of the program if they were interested, even if they couldn’t afford it. The program holds many fundraisers throughout the year, including a bake sale at the annual tree lighting ceremony, and also receives many helpful donations.

The only items the students need to purchase are their dance shoes and bloomers—all other costume materials are provided through fundraising. This makes the program as cost effective as possible for the families involved.

Every year, the ballet folklorico dancers can be seen performing at events like the city’s tree lighting ceremony, the Battle of

The Capistrano Dispatch August 25-September 7, 2017

the Mariachis Festival, the Mission’s Saint Joseph’s Day and the Return of the Swallows Celebration, the Orange County Fair, and the Swallows Day Parade. The group also recently performed at the Outlets at San Clemente, and at a local senior living home.

Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano is comprised of an elementary group and a teen group—16 elementary students and six teens—totaling 22 kids in the program overall. Moreno said that throughout the life of the dance troupe, she has seen about 2,500 kids go through the program.

One of those kids was so inspired by the program, that she eventually became the troupe’s dance instructor. Juanita Mendez joined the group when she was just seven years old. Today, Mendez is a student at Saddleback Community College, and Moreno said she appreciates how patient Mendez is with the students.

Page 24

Giselle Lagunas, 17, said she loves how Moreno runs the program, and added that Mendez is a wonderful instructor. The San Juan Hills High School student tried two other ballet folklorico groups before finding the San Juan-based program that she fell in love with. Lagunas has been with the program for almost seven years and her sister Nideline, 11, also dances in the program.

“I really like helping the new kids in the elementary group,” Lagunas said. “I like to help teach them the new steps. I just love dancing. It’s my passion.”

Maria Hernandez, whose 10-year-old daughter Anabella has been dancing in the program for over two years, said Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano has had a truly positive impact on her daughter.

“The program has taught Anabella discipline. It’s kept her active, and I’ve really seen her grow,” Hernandez said.

“Performing on stage in front of a crowd has given her so much confidence and has taught her to be responsible.”

Hernandez said that this community-oriented program is personally empowering to her because of her Mexican heritage.

She appreciates how affordable the program is and how it encourages the ballet folklorico tradition.

Moreno also believes that the ballet folklorico program helps build her students’ self-esteem. She said she can see a very noticeable change in her students after they get comfortable in the program.

“It especially boosts them up when they perform and people come over to congratulate them afterward,” Moreno said.

“People want to take their picture and tell them how great they were on stage.

There’s so much negativity going on in the world right now, and this program is a great positive outlet for the kids.”

Children of all backgrounds are welcome to dance in the program. Moreno said she has had children of Japanese, Irish and Chinese descent dance in the program.

“You don’t have to know anything about the Hispanic culture to be in the program,” Moreno said. “If you want to come and dance, then come and dance. We’ll teach you the steps and the music and we’ll dress you up. We work as a team in this program. You are welcome here.”

Moreno teaches her students about the history and culture of each dance before they begin learning it. She knows that many children don’t know very much about different cultures or even about their own cultures, so she believes that is important to teach them about these dances and the countries they originate from.

“I think this program is important to keep in the city of San Juan because it is a part of the culture of a lot of the people who live here,” Moreno said. “But that goes for any culture. I think it’s important to keep part of your culture alive, whether it’s music, dance or art. If you don’t keep that alive, then before you know it, it’s not going to be around anymore.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com

FOR SALE CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point.

Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too! Mike 949-240-1545.

GARAGE SALES ESTATE SALE...HUGE August 25, 26, 27/2017. 7am - 5pm. 25102 Danapepper Dana Point. Antiques, Vintage, Classic.....Treasures for All! Hutch, credenza, wet bar, desk, bookcases, tea table, crystal, sterling silver, flatware, glassware, fine art, mirrors, furniture, vases, Capodiamonte figures, music items, cords, men’s clothes.

Lots of restaurant equipment. Great deals and bargains!

GARAGE SALE - MULTI-FAMILY/SOCCER TEAM FUNDRAISER Saturday, August 26th 7:00AM - 11:30AM 27352 Vista Azul, Capistrano Beach Furniture, sports equipment, clothing, toys, books, small kitchen appliances, and more.

Please NO early Birds.

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

HELP WANTED COOK TRAINEES NEEDED No exp. needed – will train. All shifts available. Apply within: Hennessey’s – 31761 Camino Capistrano, SJC. Hennessey’s Tavern – 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point DANA POINT MARINA INN NOW HIRING - Breakfast room attendant Maintenance worker – full time. Housekeeping positions. Laundry, Runner. Apply in person. 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, Ca 92629.

WANTED WANTED: VINYL RECORDS LP’S & MUSIC MEMORABILIA! Guarantee Best Price Paid For Your Used Vinyl Records LP’s & Music Memorabilia!

1960-Present. Rock, Jazz, Blues, Live, Color Vinyl. I Will Come To You! Mike 310-7567854 or VINYLRECORDBUYER.COM The Capistrano Dispatch August 25–September 7, 2017

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

OUTDOOR OFFERINGS

Garden Upkeep at the Ecology Center

BY DANNY RITZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

There is never a shortage of things to do and areas to explore in Southern Orange County, especially during the summer time.

This week, we are highlighting an outdoor offering at the Ecology Center in San Jan Capistrano. very Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to noon, the Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano opens its doors to community members interested in sustainable gardening.

In these free garden-tending sessions, Ecology Center staff members assist volunteers in the upkeep and maintenance of the center’s more than one-acre of land.

Staff will assist volunteers in a variety of gardening practices based on the center’s four core pillars, which include: • Growth—Making vibrant spaces out of vacant places • Water—Empowering the community to become active water conservationists • Eat—Gathering chefs, farmers and community members together to eat with intention

E

What: Garden Upkeep Hours When: Every Wednesday, 10 a.m. to noon Where: The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano Cost: Free

• Make—Conscious consumption through supporting local artisans “We are all about building community,” said Lauren Feiberg, the Ecology Center’s head of volunteer and school programs.

“As an educator I love seeing people come here and have those ‘ah-ha’ moments.”

Each Wednesday session averages around 10 to 15 volunteers, Feiberg said, which offers an intimate environment aimed at accommodating participant’s specific gardening interests. It also helps volunteers diversify their gardening skills to become a true green thumbs.

The garden upkeep hours are open to all ages. Feiberg believes the sessions are a great gateway for beginners as well.

Those interested in attending must sign up online at www.theecologycenter.org/ volunteers before attending. CD

The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano offers free, weekly hands-on gardening sessions to interested volunteers. Photos: Courtesy

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