September 22, 2017

Inside: Fall ‘17 Aging Well, A Guide to Senior Living SPECIAL SECTION

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

SEPTEMBER 22-OCTOBER 12, 2017 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 18

Living Proof Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum reopens, making pre-Mission history accessible to the masses S J C L I V I N G / PAG E 3 0

Domingo Belardes, curator of the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center, addresses visitors during the museum’s grand reopening on Aug. 26. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Substation Expansion Moves Forward, CPUC to Consider Request for Rehearing EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

‘Romance of the Mission’ Raises $221K for Mission San Juan Preservation SJC LIVING/PAGE 29

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Matt Robinson’s Patience Key in JSerra Football’s Success SPORTS/PAGE 38

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

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

Taylor Morrison held a groundbreaking event on Sept. 13 for the 70 news homes coming to Pacifica San Juan.

Photo: Courtesy of Taylor Morrison

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week Taylor Morrison Breaks Ground on 70 New Homes in San Juan THE LATEST: On Sept. 13, homebuilder Taylor Morrison officially broke ground on 70 new homes at Pacifica San Juan in San Juan Capistrano.

The Cove at Pacifica San Juan will include 70 attached homes featuring three open-concept floor plans that range from 1,836 to 2,068 square feet. The homes feature American Farmhouse and Craftsman architecture, and residents will have access to a resort-style pool and spa, exercise room, cabanas, barbecues and a picnic area. Prices start in the low $700,000’s.

The groundbreaking news for the new homes comes about a year after Taylor Morrison’s unveiling of four new model homes last summer. Last August, the company launched sales in two Pacifica neighborhoods— Belle Haven and Blue Harbor. The August 2016 grand opening marked the first model homes to debut at Pacifica in nearly a decade.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Cove is located at 33387 Paseo El Lazo in San Juan Capistrano. For more information about The Cove at Pacifica San Juan, visit www.taylormorrison.com. —Allison Jarrell

CHP Investigating Fatal Hit and Run on Interstate 5 THE LATEST: Authorities are investigating the circumstances that led to the death of an unidentified pedestrian, whose body was found lying on Interstate 5 south of Ortega Highway on Sept. 20.

California Highway Patrol-San Juan Capistrano dispatch received calls at approximately 9:41 p.m. on Sept. 20 regarding a “possible body or animal” lying on southbound I-5, just south of Ortega Highway.

CHP officials said in a press release that “for reasons undetermined,” the male victim was lying in the right lane. Authorities said that at some point, the victim was struck by an unknown vehicle driving southbound on I-5, south of Ortega Highway, in the right lane at an unknown speed.

The victim sustained fatal injuries as a result of the incident and was pronounced deceased by the Orange County Fire Authority.

“All findings are preliminary and the traffic collision is still under investigation,” officials said in the release. “Officer T. Meyers will be handling this collision investigation.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The victim’s identity was not available as of press time. His identity will be released by the Orange County Coroner’s Office pending next of kin notification.

Anyone with questions or information regarding the collision should contact the Capistrano Area CHP Office at 949.487.4000. —AJ

SDG&E Substation Expansion Moves Forward THE LATEST: City officials announced on Sept. 19 that the California Public Utilities

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

Commission (CPUC) is set to consider San Juan Capistrano’s request for a rehearing of San Diego Gas & Electric’s substation expansion during the commission’s closed session meeting on Thursday, Sept. 28.

The city filed a lawsuit against the CPUC in federal court on June 23 and requested a rehearing to continue the fight against SDG&E’s substation expansion adjacent to residential neighborhoods.

The CPUC unanimously approved the expansion on Dec. 15, despite an “environmentally superior alternative” that was proposed in 2015. The alternative involved expanding SDG&E’s existing Trabuco substation in Laguna Niguel.

The expansion, which is part of SDG&E’s South Orange County Reliability Enhancement (SOCRE) project, involves rebuilding and upgrading a portion of its transmission infrastructure. The project aims to create a redundant electrical system that would rely on two substations rather than just the current facility in Talega.

City Manager Ben Siegel said on Sept.

20 that the city had received notice that the rehearing item is on the CPUC’s Sept.

28, closed session agenda.

Siegel said city staff will be providing the community with talking points and information that residents can use to notify the CPUC of their opposition to the project and “hopefully encourage them to reconsider that decision.”

“This will be one opportunity to voice your opinion,” Siegel said.

visit SDG&E’s office in town, located at 31521 Camino Capistrano, Suite B. —AJ

WHAT’S NEXT: Duane Cave, SDG&E external relations manager, confirmed that some work has already begun at the project site. Cave said residents who live within 230 feet of the site were notified last month (30 days in advance) that work would begin at the site in order to “start the clock on the construction of the project.”

Even though the city has sued the CPUC over the approval of the project, Cave said the lawsuit currently has no bearing on the project, and there has been no order for the utility company to cease working.

Cave said the work currently being done does not require permits from the city and includes surveying at the site, soil borings and cleanup inside the old substation building. SDG&E does need permits from the city to begin demolition, grading and construction, which have not yet been granted.

Cave said there is currently no timeline or estimate as to when SDG&E will submit project plans to the city, but once that happens, he anticipates continuing to work with city staff on some of the design specifics before going before city commissions and receiving more input from commissioners and the public.

Cave said residents interested in learning more about the SOCRE project can

FIND OUT MORE: The city launched a new emergency preparedness video during Wednesday’s City Council meeting that includes more information on the importance of having volunteers participate in city emergency preparedness programs.

To view the video, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org/Departments/EmergencyPreparedness. —AJ

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Registration Open for City’s Fall CERT Classes THE LATEST: With training beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 27, the city of San Juan Capistrano is seeking residents interested in volunteering with its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

“The (CERT) program is designed to increase individual and community preparedness and self-reliance in the event of man-made or natural disasters,” city officials said.

The city offers disaster preparedness training for free to the community, which includes 20 hours of classroom and handson training. CERT training encompasses disaster preparedness, terrorism awareness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, disaster psychology, disaster communications, team organization and disaster simulation.

WHAT’S NEXT: Fall 2017 CERT classes will be held for six consecutive Wednesday nights—Sept. 27 through Nov. 1— from 6:30-9 p.m. The final class will take place on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will culminate with a disaster simulation that will test skills learned.

To sign up for the classes, visit www. sanjuancapistrano.org/Departments/ Emergency-Preparedness.

State Representatives, Local Agencies to Address ‘Opioid and Heroin Crisis’ THE LATEST: On Monday, Oct. 2, State Assemblyman Bill Brough and State Senator Patricia Bates, in partnership with the Capistrano Unified School District and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, will host a presentation on the “opioid and heroin crisis” in South Orange County, and how it affects local families.

The event will run from 6-8 p.m. at the San Juan Hills High School Performing Arts Center, located at 29211 Stallion Ridge in San Juan.

WHAT’S NEXT: Those interested in attending can RSVP at the following website: bit. ly/2h52f3v, or call 949.347.7301. —AJ www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

The Miramar Event Center is slated to be discussed during the Oct. 17 City Council meeting. Parking waivers for the center are expected to be approved. Photo: File

News Next Door

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

DANA POINT

Council Denies Appeal Regarding Capo Beach Duplex Project Despite the number of residents who voiced their opposition against a duplex project in Capistrano Beach, City Council voted 4-1 in favor of denying an appeal to the Planning Commission’s approval of the project.

Mayor Debra Lewis voted against the motion while Councilman John Tomlinson abstained due to a conflict of interest. City Attorney Patrick Munoz told the members of the public Tomlinson owns a home across the street from the property.

In June, Planning Commission approved a project that would allow the construction of two detached duplexes on Via Verde.

The project will consist of two detached dwelling units on two continuous parcels that are approximately 2,500 square feet.

Each will have four bedrooms and fourand-a-half bathrooms.

Capistrano Beach resident Richard Gardner filed an appeal on the project and stated the decision was based on design compatibility.

“We would like to retain our beach community,” Gardner said during the Sept. 19 meeting.

Mayor Pro-Tem Paul Wyatt said he understood the concerns of the residents and was sympathetic, but he didn’t feel the buildings were too “dense” or had too much “mass,” which were most of the concerns the residents had.

“It looks to me that the architect thought a lot about how to make it look really nice and fit in really nice,” Wyatt said.

Lewis said she didn’t feel the project would fit into the character of the neighborhood.

For the staff report and more details on the project, visit www.danapointtimes. com. —Kristina Pritchett Page 4

SAN CLEMENTE

Miramar Theater Parking Waivers Discussion Continues City Council opened discussion to the public regarding the Miramar Event Center during its Sept. 19 meeting, but no decisions were rendered. A current injunction against the city for issuing permits and licenses in certain commercial areas is still in effect.

During the discussion, a few residents spoke in favor and against the current plans.

San Clemente Historical Society Member Larry Culbertson said the city should protect its historical structures and that revamping the Miramar would be a benefit to the city and its residents.

Plans for the Miramar have gone through the necessary steps for approval and now await City Council’s vote. The Planning Commission, which is tasked with examining projects and development in San Clemente, approved the plans for a series of restaurants to be built within the structure as well as the plans to fix the theater itself.

George Gregory, a North Beach resident, was incensed by the proposals to grant the theater parking waivers, as he argued overflow of parking would hamper his own ability to park at this dwelling.

Gregory has been an advocate for the prosperity of the North Beach area, but he has voiced his opinion related to parking issues at numerous meetings.

Prior to decisions regarding the Miramar Theater, the city is looking to have the injunction that is in place related to emergency shelters lifted. The city is prohibited from granting permits and licenses on commercial structures until a court settlement or decision is reached related to the lawsuit against it to establish adequate zoning for a shelter. At the Sept. 19 meeting, the city approved its second reading of its Housing Element, which designates shelters in the Rancho San Clemente Business Park area.

The next City Council discussion of the Miramar Event Center will take place on Oct. 17, the second Council meeting of the month. —Eric Heinz www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

Murder Conviction Affirmed for Men Involved in 2015 Botched Jewelry Store Burglary On Sept. 11, the California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division Three, affirmed the murder convictions of two men who were involved in a botched burglary at Monaco Jewelers on Doheny Park Road in San Juan Capistrano in 2015.

The Court of Appeal affirmed a 2015 judgment by the Superior Court of Orange County for the “provocative act” murder conviction of Alan Keith Hunter, 45, of Moreno Valley, and James Stephan Paschall, 47, of Gardena.

“Two of the defendants’ accomplices were shot to death by a jewelry store owner in a botched attempted robbery of the man’s store,” the Orange County District Attorney’s office stated in a press release.

“Hunter and Paschall were each found guilty by a jury on April 9, 2015, of felony first degree murder and attempted second degree robbery, and were sentenced to 30 years to life in state prison on May 15, 2015.”

To read the full published opinion and the specifics of the 2015 case, visit www. thecapistranodispatch.com.

Community Leaders Looking to Form Skate Park Fundraising Committee Members of the community interested in participating on a committee focused on raising funds for a skate park in town are invited to meet at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 6, at the Capistrano Football Club, located at 32158 Camino Capistrano, Suite 210, in San Juan Capistrano.

Peter Carey, co-owner of Capistrano Skate, and Eric Groos, founder of local nonprofit Great Opportunities, are looking for people interested in raising funds for the approved skate park, which the city has estimated will cost $2 million to construct in addition to funds needed for annual maintenance. The San Juan Capistrano City Council approved the park’s conceptual design back in March, but noted that funding sources have not yet been identified.

All interested parties are welcome to attend the meeting on Oct. 6. For more information, follow the “Great Opportunities Skate Park” group on Facebook.

Outlets of San Clemente to Hold Third Annual Shopping Extravaganza Residents will have the opportunity to support local charities such as Catholic

Charities of Orange County, and Capistrano Valley Christian Schools during the Outlets of San Clemente’s third annual Shopping Extravaganza on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Interested shoppers can buy a ticket for the charity of their choice for $35, and $25 will go directly to that charity. The event includes exclusive discounts at more than 40 participating stores, a catered lunch and entertainment, wines and cocktails in a VIP lounge, and the chance to enter to win $40,000 in prizes, including gift cards to more than 55 stores.

For event details, or to purchase tickets, visit www.outletsatsanclemente.com/ tickets.

Homebuilders Selected for Final Esencia Neighborhoods Five homebuilders have been selected for the final nine intergenerational residential neighborhoods now under construction at Esencia, the mixed-use hillside village in the 14,000-home Rancho Mission Viejo community.

The nine neighborhoods, known collectively as the NorthWalk Neighborhoods, will include 752 attached and detached homes.

Named for their location at the northernmost point of Esencia, the new neighborhoods will offer backcountry panoramas and walkable pathways linking neighborhoods to a new 5.5-acre linear park.

The homebuilders selected for the third collection of neighborhoods at Esencia include CalAtlantic Homes, Meritage Homes, Pulte Homes, William Lyon Homes, and The New Home Company.

To learn more, visit www.ranchomissionviejo.com or visit the Esencia Visitors Center located within The Canyon House Neighborhoods at Esencia.

Surterre Properties to Host Blood Drive in Monarch Beach Surterre Properties will be hosting their semi-annual blood drive on Friday, Sept.

22. Sponsored by the American Red Cross, the drive will be located at Surterre’s Monarch Beach location (33522 Niguel Road).

The drive will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information on participating in this event, contact Surterre’s Monarch Beach office at 949.545.2000 or visit www. redcrossblood.org/make-donation and enter “Surterre Properties DP” as the sponsor code to sign up.

San Clemente to Host Toll Road Walk In an effort to bolster its position against the Transportation Corridor Agencies’ proposals of establishing toll

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

roads through San Clemente, the city will host a trek of its open space areas to show people what it values and why officials say the proposals would be detrimental to San Clemente. “…Naturalists Joel Robinson and Jarrod Gaut will join San Clemente City Councilmember Lori Donchak and Public Works Director/City Engineer Tom Bonigut in leading and narrating the “Toll Road Trek” hike on the Forster Ridgeline Trail,” a press release from the city stated.

Robinson is the executive director and head naturalist for Naturalist For You, the release stated.

“The San Clemente City Council is concerned about potential adverse impacts associated with the proposed alternative alignments 13, 14 and 17 as depicted on maps prepared by the TCA and are being studied as part of the 241 Toll Road extension,” the release stated. “These routes would decimate existing open space and residential areas, if approved.”

The city sued the TCA in July in order to “to reset and broaden the process of solving South County transportation challenges.” The Reserve homeowners association also sued the TCA related to its process of environmental impact review process as well as its disclosure of the settlement agreement the agencies forged with environmental groups.

The hike will start at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23, at the trail at Avenida La Pata and Camino Del Rio. The city has asked participants to park on Camino Del Rio in Forster Ranch.

More information can be found on the city’s website at www.san-clemente.org/ about-us/city-news/toll-road-information, and people can call 949.361.8254 or email fergusonl@san-clemente.org. —Eric Heinz

FAM’s 30th Annual Hunger Walk Registration Now Open Join Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) as they walk to end hunger in South Orange County on Sunday, Oct. 15.

To celebrate the walk’s 30th anniversary this year, food, live music and children’s activities will begin at 12:30 p.m.

“Help us celebrate 30 years of creating awareness and raising funds for hungry neighbors in South Orange County,” event organizers said. “The FAM Board of Directors and staff invite you to participate in our Hunger Walk by signing up to walk and fundraise, becoming an official sponsor, or making a donation.”

FAM is a food pantry and local support outreach organization that strives to help people in the area from becoming homeless, and to find housing for people living on the streets. For more information, visit www.family-assistance.org.

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

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Community Meetings TUESDAY, SEPT. 26

Cultural Heritage Commission Meeting

4:30 p.m. The city’s Cultural Heritage Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 27

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.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 29

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.

TUESDAY, OCT. 3

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.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting

7 p.m. The Capistrano Unified School District governing body meets at district offices, 33122 Valle Road. To see the board’s agenda, visit www.capousd.org.

FRIDAY, OCT. 6

First Friday Film

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

SATURDAY, OCT. 7

Free Saturday Film

10 a.m.-noon. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library welcomes families to enjoy free popcorn and a showing of Spark: A Space Tail. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.248.5132. www.facebook.com/SJCFriends.

FRIDAY, OCT. 13

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths by Jim Kempton

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

Debra Wells, 949.388.7700, x104 dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com BUSINESS MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

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, Heidi Mefferd, Danny Ritz

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 15, Issue 18. 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.

Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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The Freedom of the Press is our Cardinal Liberty “Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”

—Thomas Jefferson

T

here is a reason why the founders of our great nation addressed the protection of a free press as their first article in the Bill of Rights: It is the primary guardian of all our other rights.

Only with an educated, informed citizenry free to speak peaceably, assemble and petition for redress grievances can an effective democracy sustain its vital institutions.

In our community, most residents rely on local newspapers and community websites to provide needed information and cover important issues for us. With few exceptions, our various media outlets provide accurate, well-researched coverage of issues that help us evaluate and act upon the topics that surround our local life.

Small-town Americans as well as larger urban centers depend on the dedicated journalists and observers who research, collect, assemble and disseminate the myriad events evolving daily.

For the most part, my sense is that the more independent a media outlet, the better.

It is not just the quality of content the audience receives; it can also be the quantity.

We’ve seen this occur throughout Orange County, the state of California and the rest of the nation, where local papers that used to run five weekly editions have been reduced to printing just one—and that one ends up being bundled with the

Letters to the Editor HARMING OUR TOWN —Dave Solt, San Juan Capistrano I’d like to draw your attention to the actions taken against the Hotel Capistrano, being built downtown behind the Egan House. The owners of that property are local residents, Steve and Toni Oedekerk.

Plaza Banderas is a competing hotel being built next to the Mission. The Banderas developers, also local folks, are Bill Griffith and Dan Friess. Their actions are harming our city and costing tax payers money with no return on those lost dollars.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

flagship publication—and sometimes the flagship publication is then bought by a large, national conglomerate.

This forces subscribers to also buy the main paper in order to receive our beloved local publication(s).

For decades, local correspondents report on the local news with evenhanded, comprehensive and amazingly prolific reporting for their respective hometowns.

These towns received a lot less of that coverage when the local publications lost autonomy.

The consequence of that subtraction of information flow opened the door to another prized American institution: unfettered competition. Some areas have seen small competitors WAVELENGTHS established in the wake

By Jim Kempton of these transitions.

But it got me to thinking, could a large corporation buy up all the media and own it for its own purposes? What if a local politician accused the town newspapers of being “fake news” because they didn’t like the investigative reporting about them?

How would we feel if a big company in town tried to discredit or attack local news organizations because it exposed their wrongdoing?

What if the local sheriff’s department decided one of our papers should be shut down?

It stands to reason that none of the fine City Council members, businesses or sheriffs would think of doing something like that. They’re track record shows they respect the rule of law, the responsibility of their job and the sacred importance of

our shared democratic institutions.

Protecting our First Amendment rights are by far our most important—because without media informing us, we don’t even know the rest of our rights are being trampled. Without a free press, no one would be aware that we might be spied on by our government, jailed without charge, poisoned by our water supply or sent to war with false cause.

Without a free press, Stalin would be a hero, Nixon would have served a second term, pesticides would still be unlimited, and smog would still blanket the air. If media professionals couldn’t expose wrongdoing, tobacco would still be innocent of cancer and Wells Fargo would still be fleecing its credit card holders.

That a handful of massive corporate conglomerates now own most of the television, radio and newspapers in America is not a reassuring trend. But to hear our national leader demean this freedom by claiming unassailable facts “fake news” and calling journalists “enemies of the state” is a truly jarring experience.

Because when it comes to true liberty, an unabridged press isn’t just instrumental to freedom—it may, when liberty is strained, be the only one.

Jim Kempton is a local writer and surfer who believes media can be good or bad, but without freedom, it can be nothing but bad.

He worries that the freedom of the press may soon be limited to only those with powerful influence. CD

As the developers of the Hotel Banderas, their actions are predatory and we should all be alarmed. They are using multiple lawsuits to interfere with another land owner; one they see as a competitor for their hotel project, and are denying the owners of the Hotel Capistrano their private property rights. As a result, they are denying our town an important new downtown resource; one that would bring many jobs to local citizens, bring in sales tax and the important Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT, the special tax on hotel room occupancy).

This one excerpt from the Griffith/ Friess/SPM Fairfield legal brief of July 7, 2017 is referring to the restaurant building: “...the new hotel development will impact the aesthetics of the Judge Egan House”

“...the new hotel development would obstruct the historic town center’s view corridor.”

This legal action by Griffith/Friess will delay Oedekerk by more than a year while being litigated. Yet days later, Griffith/ Friess submitted their Plaza Banderas project to the city with their “Building A” being significantly larger than the Hotel Capistrano’s restaurant building, as well as literally obscuring the view of the Mission.

The Hotel Capistrano restaurant building is set back further from Camino Capistrano than any other building in downtown, and the Judge Egan House will continue to be visible from every conceivable angle on Camino Capistrano. The restaurant building is also nearly half the size of “Building A.” Are Griffith and Friess applying a double standard? Are they suing only to

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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

SOAPBOX delay their competitor?

There is a letter to the city’s Design Review Committee, available as public record, from Mr. Oedekerk that outlines a number of similar hypocritical actions from the Banderas Camp. I have been attending many of the meetings, public hearings and events swirling around this project, and it’s my opinion, just my suspicion, that the Griffith and Friess stakeholders are unable to procure their financing as long as the Hotel Capistrano is further along. More competition equals additional risk, and lenders do not like risk. Therefore, as I see it, Griffith/Friess and company have crossed the line ethically, and they are doing anything they can to block the competing hotel.

This affects you—local jobs and payrolls are not being created. Our city is denied the important revenue from the hotel tax.

There is no sales tax being paid to nearby shops and restaurants while there are no hotel guests. Other quality projects for improving our downtown are on hold waiting for the hotel/anchor to be opened. Further, the word has spread in the development community to not bring your project to San Juan Capistrano, as you will double your costs because of delays and litigation. This leaves us with only those developers who have large in-house legal departments and can wait it out or slug it out with Griffith and Friess. Who does that leave—Holiday Inn, Victoria’s Secret, Walgreens?

We have to answer the question—will our town be a quality destination, or another town run-over by greedy developers? Please join me and other good citizens of San Juan Capistrano in voicing your opposition to this example of bad business practices.

PROTECTING LOS RIOS HISTORIC DISTRICT —Shelly Welcome, San Juan Capistrano My family is a big fan of Huell Howser.

We were really saddened when he passed away. We have learned a lot about California and have visited many places in California because of Huell Howser.

I encourage people to watch his “California Gold” episode on San Juan Capistrano, or just watch the last 15 minutes about the Los Rios District. (See the online version of this letter for a link to the episode).

Currently we have two big developments proposed for downtown, and now this proposed Los Rios mini mall project.

What exactly is the City Council’s view of what San Juan Capistrano should look like? Just mini malls and parking lots? One big traffic jam?

Our City Council should do everything to preserve the unique Los Rios District as a historic area. Our City Council should not change zoning so that part of the Los Rios area can be developed into a fake barn façade mini mall and parking lot. I do not begrudge the Ito’s right to sell and retire. They have worked hard for many years on their business. But building a mini mall in one of our city’s and our state’s most precious historic spaces goes

against the zoning and against the preservation of the Los Rios District. Sell the property, but please sell it to a person who wishes to farm, put in a nursery, or build a park. We already have enough empty mini mall spaces in San Juan Capistrano.

I do not feel people should besmirch the Ito family’s character, nor should the Ito family besmirch anyone else’s. At the Sept.

5 city council meeting, Ms. Ito seemed to imply that some people who disagree with the selling of her property do not have good character. I do not know if that was her intention. In the meeting, Ms. Ito also pointed out that people have rented out their homes in the Los Rios District and that people have added on to their homes. Yes, people rented and added on within the rules and zoning of the Los Rios District, and not to the detriment of their neighbors.

The Los Rios District in San Juan Capistrano is beautiful and authentic. It has the oldest functioning homes in San Juan Capistrano. Los Rios is not all about business. It is a unique neighborhood community. Citizens should encourage the City Council not to change the zoning of Los Rios so that another mini mall and parking lot can be built in our city’s historic, oneof-a-kind area.

Huell Howser said that the Los Rios District and the surrounding area is part of “California’s gold.” I’d like to emphasize that once that gold is spent, it will be gone forever.

LACK OF LOCAL BUS ROUTES MAKES IT DIFFICULT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES —Salena Theirrien, San Clemente Growing up means becoming independent, which you can do by going to school, work or even to the store without relying on someone telling you when or how to get there. I’m sure some people can walk outside and get in a car to go to Walmart, Albertsons or Target, but for me and many others, doing that takes more time than needed. Not everyone has a car.

Bus routes like the 191 in San Clemente stopped by the store and in front of San Clemente High School. However, these routes have been taken out, leaving the bus stops with a sign saying take a Lyft or an Uber; however, I do not make enough money to take some taxi everywhere I need to go.

The bus was affordable and convenient when I needed it, but now it is gone.

Personally, I would like to try to bring it back if others feel the same as I do. Thank you.

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.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

Page 9

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

LIVE THEATER: “CABARET” 8 p.m. Forget your troubles and head to the Cabaret at the Cabrillo Playhouse.

Cabaret explores the crazy and tumultuous life of Cliff, a young American writer, and English singer Sally Bowles as they become friends and enjoy the bohemian lifestyle of the final days of Germany’s Republic. Tickets $20-$25. The show continues through Oct. 8. Cabrillo Playhouse.

202 Avenida Carbillo, San Clemente.

949.492.0465. www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT CRUISE 8-10 p.m. Hop aboard the Ocean Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer to witness marine birds, sea lions and bioluminescent plankton.

A net will drop down 600 feet to capture these creatures. Cost is $24-$45. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23: SHEA CENTER BBQ & FAMILY FAIRE 4-10 p.m. The 39th annual Shea Center BBQ & Family Faire features over 300 silent auction items, old fashioned country faire games, a petting zoo, Shea Center rider demonstrations and a BBQ dinner from the Montage Laguna Beach. Western wear is encouraged. Live music by Swingshift. Tickets must be ordered online at www.sheacenter.org.

J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center, 26284 Oso Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.240.8441.

The List What’s going on in and around town COMPILED BY STAFF

Saturday | 23 SOUTH OC CARS AND COFFEE 7-9 a.m. South OC Cars and Coffee is a gathering of car enthusiasts every Saturday. Vehicles of all makes and models will be on display. More than 500 cars are expected to show up. Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa. www.facebook.com/southoccarsandcoffee.

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

RSVP online at www.fodph.org. Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point.

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. West Coast Strayz performs, followed by Lightning Train at 8:30 p.m. Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

SAGE ADVICE SERIES: HARD-WORKING NATIVES 9:30-10:30 a.m. Native plant expert Colin Dunleavy will lead a discussion of hardworking, low maintenance native plants.

Learn about which plants will be dependable in the garden. Tree of Life Nursery.

33201 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. www.californianativeplants.com.

‘THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN’ IN CONCERT 4 p.m. Community Presbyterian Church Friends of Music presents “The Perfect Gentlemen” in concert. This nationally known vocal quartet blends harmony and humor together in an energetic, upbeat show for the whole family. All are welcome to attend. (Free-will donation). Community Presbyterian Church, 32202 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1502. www.sjcpres.org.

MEET THE DESIGNERS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Armstrong’s team of designers will give an overview of available services, show portfolios of previous work, and answer general landscape design questions. Registration is not required.

Armstrong Garden Centers. 32382 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.6666. www.armstronggarden.com.

SLEEP LIKE A BABY WORKSHOP 6-8 p.m. Join Alan Hostetter for an evening of relaxation through his workshop which includes Yoga Nidra, aromatherapy, crystal singing bowls, and more.

Price is $20 for pre-registration and $30 at the door. Yoga Bungalow. 32382 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano. www.yoga-bungalow.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

Sunday | 24 GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park.

Parking is $5, the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

LIVE MUSIC: OLIVIA ROHDE 1 p.m. Listen to live music at Rancho Capistrano Winery. 26755 Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano. www.ranchocapistranowinery.com.

COWGIRL & COWBOY WESTERN GALA 5:30-10 p.m. The Pet Project Foundation’s annual gala aims to benefit the San Clemente/Dana Point Pro-Humane Animal Shelter. There will be a three-course meal, silent and live auctions, dancing and more.

Tickets are $135 each, and sponsorships are available. Bella Collina Golf Club.

200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. www.petprojectfoundation.org.

Monday | 25 YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Suggested donation of $8. Classes also occur every morning at 10 a.m.

Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

Wednesday | 27 CRUISE INTO HISTORY 5-6 p.m. Join the Dana Point Historical Society in celebrating their 30th anniversary with a Cruise into History aboard the Dana Pride. Tickets are $50–$60.

Contact the Dana Point Historical Society Page 10

at 949.248.8121 or email events@danapointhistorical.org. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. www.danawharf.com.

Thursday | 28 LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens volunteers at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano. Help care for and maintain native plants and butterflies while enjoying a little dirt therapy and friendship.

Every Thursday. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

WINE OR WHISKEY SOCIAL 5 p.m.-midnight. Join The Wine Bistro for their wine or whiskey social. Guests can choose from wine or whiskey paired with three courses for $35. The Wine Bistro Dana Point, 34091 La Plaza, Dana Point. www.winebistrodp.com.

SUMMER NIGHTS JAZZ SERIES 6 p.m. Elizabeth Lamers will host an album debut party. Tickets are $10 at the door or online. Casino San Clemente, 140 W. Avenida Pico. 949.369.6600. www.thecasinosanclemente.com.

BELLANTE WINERY TASTING EVENT 7:30-10:30 p.m. Bellante Winery will feature different wines for sampling.

Prices are $25 and includes light appetizers. Barnoa Wine Bar. 831 Via Suerte, #106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

Friday | 29 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.

LIVE MUSIC: THE MARK & LOREN INTERNATIONAL GUITAR DUO 7 p.m. Loren Barrigar and Mark Mazengarb will perform live. Tickets are $30. Dana Point Community House.

24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point. www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

LIVE THEATER: ‘DRACULA’ 8 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse presents Dracula. Undeniably entertaining and exhilarating, this play is appropriate for all ages, but has enough scary moments to keep even grown-ups on the edge of their seats. Tickets are $27-$37. Show runs through Oct. 15. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

(Cont. on page 12) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 10) LIVE MUSIC: YACHTY BY NATURE 9 p.m. Yachty by Nature at StillWater Spirits & Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. www.danapointstillwater.com.

Saturday | 30 INVESTIGATING HABITATS FAMILY WALK 9-11 a.m. Discover how native animals design and build their homes and how to protect them. Tickets are $5 for adults and children. Participants must be registered by 4 p.m. on Sept. 29. The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. www. rmvreserve.org.

CHEESEMAKING WORKSHOP 10 a.m. Learn about the ingredients, tools, skills and step-by-step processes of cheese making. Participants will also learn about culturing, draining and ripening cheese.

Price is $60 for non-members and $50 for members. The Ecology Center.

32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano. www.theecologycenter.org.

BARRE3 IN THE PARK 3-4 p.m. Join the second annual Barre3 in the Park class. Take the class and stay for a healthy snack, a braid barre and some raffle prizes. Proceeds benefit Wounded Veterans Initiative for Canine Companionship. Register at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. www.facebook.com/barre3sanclemente.

LIVE MUSIC HARBOR CRUISE 8-9:30 p.m. Every Saturday join Dana Wharf for a live music harbor cruise.

Tickets are $25 per person. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. www.danawharf.com.

Sunday | 01 SUP YOGA 8-9:30 a.m. Join Westwind Sailing and iHeartYoga for stand-up paddleboard yoga.

Classes are $35 with board rental, $25 without. Sign up at iheartyoga.com. Westwind Sailing, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. 949.363.3152. www.iheartyoga.com.

DANA POINT ARTFEST 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Join the community celebration of fine art, live music, food and more in the Lantern District. For more information, visit www.dpartfest.com.

Monday | 02 LAUGHS FOR LEATHERNECKS 5:30 p.m. Join the comedic event to raise money for the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group. Comedians such as James P. Connolly, P.J. Walsh, Stephanie Blum and Tom Riehl will be in attendance.

Tickets are $35 and those who cannot attend can sponsor a Marine to attend.

Irvine Improv. 31 Fortune Drive, Suite 216, Irvine. www.danapoint5thmarines.com.

ON THE MENU

THE BEEF TORTA AT EL COYOTITO

Saturday | 07 HEADLANDS NATURE WALK 9-11 a.m. Join the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center for a walk that focuses on the plants and animals that can be found on the headlands. The one and a half-mile walk occurs the first Saturday of each month. RSVP to dpnaturalresources@danapoint.org or 949.248.3527. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. www.danapoint.org.

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. Parking fee is $5. For more information, email caspersparkfoundation@ gmail.com. Caspers Wilderness Park.

33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.923.2210. www.rmvreserve.org.

LET’S EXPLORE! 11 a.m. Join the library as they stomp full STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and explore the world. Learn about dinosaurs to celebrate international dinosaur month. This is a program for families and kids ages three to five years old. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517. www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

The beef torta at El Coyotito Mexican & Seafood Restaurant. Photo: Duane Paul Murphy

BY DUANE PAUL MURPHY, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

E

l Coyotito Mexican & Seafood Restaurant is a 17-year-old establishment in San Juan Capistrano owned by a local family that hails from central Mexico. The eatery offers impressive daily specials, such as $0.99 tacos and $2.50 beers every Tuesday. Other specials include buy one entrée and two drinks, get the second entrée free, or receive a free drink with any to-go order.

Their torta sandwich is a must-try meal for lovers of authentic Mexican cuisine. With ingredients such as cheese, lettuce, fried

DANA POINT OKTOBERFEST Noon-7 p.m. The annual Dana Point Oktoberfest returns for another year at Sea Terrace Park. Guests can choose from a selection of beers, a wide variety of food and live entertainment. Admission to the event is free. A collection mug can be purchased for $20 for beer, after the first drink refills are $10. There will be a free shuttle service from Dana Hills High School. Sea Terrace Park. 33501 Niguel Road, Dana Point. www.danapointoktoberfest.com.

THE VINTAGE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL 6-10 p.m. The San Juan Chamber of Commerce’s annual food and wine festival takes place at Mission San Juan Capistrano. The event commemorates the migration of the swallows while raising funds for the chamber and showcasing local restaurants, wineries and breweries. The evening includes dancing and live music by Family Style.

Admission is $95, or $1,150 for a table of 10. Table reservations must be made by calling 949.493.4700 or at the chamber, located at 31421 La Matanza Street. Individual tickets can be purchased in person, by phone or at www.vintagesjc.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.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

Page 12

beans, rice and beef, this sandwich packs a lot of flavor. Other torta choices include carnitas, chicken and chorizo.

If in the mood for breakfast, try their pancakes or huevos rancheros. If leaning toward fish for lunch or dinner, consider entrees such as Ostiones (oysters), Camarones Al Mojo de Ajo (shrimp in garlic) or Mojarra Frita (fried fish).

El Coyotito is open Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

El Coyotito Mexican & Seafood Restaurant 32141 Alipaz Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano 949.496.9439, www.elcoyotitomexicanrestaurant.com

At the Movies: Audiences May be Put Off by ‘mother!’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

B

ehold, the most divisive and polarizing movie of 2017. If you thought Nicolas Winding Refn was the most shamelessly self-indulgent and pretentious filmmaker of Western cinema with Only God Forgives (2013) and The Neon Demon (2016), you won’t be surprised that title now belongs to Darren Aronofsky’s mother!—with the annoyingly gimmicky, lowercase lettering and exclamation point in the title and all. Amusingly, Aronofsky has given audiences great, conventional, straightforward dramas like Requiem for a Dream (2000), The Wrestler (2008) and Black Swan (2010).

But here he really outdoes himself to a farcical level beyond The Fountain (2006).

There really is no plot outside that of a young wife (Jennifer Lawrence) and her older husband (Javier Bardem) being bothered by strangers continuously barging into their countryside house. The wife wants them to go away, but the husband is enjoying the visits, as most of them are aware of his work as a novelist. Ed Harris, Michelle Pfeiffer and Domhnall Gleeson play some of the house guests.

Photo: Paramount Pictures

Lawrence is possibly the best part of the film. After spending so much time in two franchises, she returns to something artfully intriguing—even if off-putting— and shows how strong she can maintain emoting and carrying every single scene almost entirely on her own. But the rest of the film is filled with heavy-handed, over-the-top at best and stereotypical at worst religious and political allegories with some great sound mixing. If you are self-aware and enjoy indulgent arthouse films as a guilty pleasure, mother! might be for you. For everyone else: stay far, far away. CD

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

aging well |

Welcome to

aging well | FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART In this biannual edition of Aging Well, Picket Fence Media has assembled various editorial features highlighting local senior-friendly events in the South Orange County area, what our local senior centers have to offer patrons, as well as itineraries and ideas for nearby road trips and getaways.

Seniors will also find an expert’s opinion on getting organized with a pre-planning life celebration checklist, Medicare enrollment options, information on setting boundaries if an adult child is moving in, and technology etiquette for those entering the online dating world. Considering an encore career? This issue includes the stories of a few local seniors and more to assist you on your aging well journey through life.

Penny Pincher Discounts, perks for celebrating life as a senior

Cover Me What to know about health insurance plans

BY ERIC HEINZ

Understanding the landscape of medical insurance, or health care, can be a daunting task. To get a better grasp on what you need for coverage, it’s best to speak to a licensed insurance professional, but in the meantime, here are some important tips for signing up for health care coverage.

Open enrollment for Medicare beneficiaries will begin Oct. 1 and end Dec. 7.

For non-Medicare beneficiaries and those under age 65, open enrollment starts Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 31 in California.

For Covered California, the state’s exchange for insurance, you can apply online independently or use the services of a licensed Covered California certified agent by selecting “free local help to enroll” on the website’s home page.

If you don’t qualify for advanced premium tax credits (subsidies to help offset the cost of your monthly insurance premium), then you should consult an insurance broker who can help you find the right insurance plan that meets your needs and contracts in-network with the doctors you and your family go to.

Stephanie Frisch, owner of Stephanie Frisch Insurance 101 Services, said Medicare is provided by the federal government, and during the open enrollment and San Clemente makes traveling north or south a breeze. Once the train reaches its destination, Greyhound buses can extend the journey and discount. Both companies offer 15 percent off to seniors ages 62 plus.

CAR RENTALS: Not an AARP member?

Joining the organization should be on anyone’s to-do list once they turn age 50. AARP offers 25 percent off or more at several car rental services such as Alamo, Avis, Hertz, National Rent-A-Car and more.

HOTELS: At age 62, hotel enterprises such as Marriott and Holiday Inn Express offer travelers a 15 percent discount, while hotels such as Sheraton, Westin and Ramada offer 20 percent off.

Dining

BY RACHAEL MATTICE

In a world obsessed with anti-aging, youth and family-oriented activities, it can be difficult to surpass these biases and look forward to the empty nester age or life beyond 55. But the years of senior living should be celebrated and a time of exploration now that many of life’s nine-to-five responsibilities have ended.

Here are a few perks offered by organizations to help seniors enjoy their third phase and simultaneously stash a few extra bucks for new adventures.

Travel AIRLINES: Whether its traveling abroad or domestic, many airlines offer various discounts to seniors ages 65 and up, but most do not openly market this perk. Southwest, United and U.S. Airways all request calling their customer service numbers to inquire before booking a flight.

RAIL AND BUS: Living on the Golden Coast with Amtrak stops in San Juan Capistrano

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

RUBY’S DINER: Enjoy one of SoCal’s favorite diners by joining Ruby’s Jitterbug Club to receive 10 percent off of entrees and up to three guests for a total of four discounts. If guests visit between the hours of 3-5 p.m., the discount doubles.

FAST FOOD: Quick fix masters Burger King and Subway offer 10 percent off of their menu items to seniors ages 60 plus, while IHOP provides reduced prices with smaller portion sizes to those over 55. El Pollo Loco and Fuddrucker’s have 10 percent off for 55 plus.

period, people can change and update their private insurance options.

For example, someone could switch from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare and add a prescription drug plan and a Medicare Supplement plan, or vice versa.

“Advantage plans cover everything that Medicare Part A and B cover but add additional benefits and cover more than what Original Medicare covers,” Frisch said. “The majority of them also include prescription drug coverage and offer a $0 premium in Orange County.”

Frisch said it is also helpful for people to seek assistance with understanding the latest news in health care coverage.

For example, “One of the major insurance companies, Anthem Blue Cross, is pulling out of Covered California and the Individual/Family plan market in Orange County as well as most of California,” Frisch said. “Everyone who’s on an Anthem plan, if they don’t replace it, they’ll be uninsured or switched to another company with the lowest premium for the same type of plan if they’re currently getting their insurance through Covered California. This means those people most likely would lose their current doctors.”

More information about Medicare can be found at www.medicare.gov.

Entertainment MOVIES: If planning to catch a flick, check out AMC Theaters for discounts up to 30 percent off for patrons over 55. Regal Entertainment Group offers half off of a 32-ounce soft drink and a 64-ounce popcorn at their movie theaters.

SHOPPING: Buying a new pair of glasses at any age is pricey, but LensCrafters sweetens the deal for seniors with 30 percent off prescription glasses. Patrons should mark their calendars for the first Wednesday of each month too, because Albertson’s offers 10 percent off of groceries galore to those over 55. Ace Hardware even gives 10 percent off to customers over 60.

CLOTHING RETAILERS: Mid-week shoppers over the age of 62 can get 15 percent off at Kohl’s on Wednesdays. Clarks, Dress Barn and Banana Republic all offer 10 percent off to seniors at all times. TJ Maxx offers 10 percent off too, although only on certain days of the month.

There is a plethora of perks available to senior citizens in addition to the items listed above. When in doubt, always ask. Visit sites such as www.seniorcitizendiscountlist. org or www.bradsdeals.com/blog/seniordiscounts for a larger list.

aging well | helps teach kids about bike repair and maintenance and donates bikes to kids in need.

“Ricardo Beas, the owner of Ricardo’s Place restaurant, has helped us in so many ways I can’t even begin to name them.

“We are making a huge difference in these kids’ lives. Most of the children have very little. Some don't even have lunch when they travel with us. We provide a safe and positive environment for kids to build confidence and self-pride.

“A part of our program is to discuss with students the effects that gangs, drugs and bad choices can have on their lives.

“Our website is www.greatopps.org. We are on Facebook and Instagram as well.

Funding is 100 percent from donations.”

Jeannine and Jerry, Capistrano Beach

Encore Careers

& Volunteering

BY TOM BLAKE

Some seniors find themselves desiring a quiet life in their retirement years, while others tend to crave new meaning, intellectual challenges and social hobbies that fulfill an unexpected void left over after their working years. For those such individuals contemplating how to fill the void or eliminate the feeling of restlessness, some may consider going back to work, at least part-time.

Here are a few examples of local seniors who have taken on an encore career and how they embraced their need for a job-fueled active lifestyle.

Debbie Franks, 60, San Juan Capistrano

Debbie said, “I worked at the Ocean Institute for 19 years. I didn’t think there was another job after leaving there. But, I was wrong. I work in San Juan Capistrano at Creative Gift Source. This job gives me the opportunity to learn something new.

Working keeps me busy and fulfilled. There are more people out there who would enjoy working if they just took the leap.”

Chris Anastasio, 83, San Clemente Chris said, “I volunteer at the San Clemente Villas. I was a former dance host on cruise ships and now dance twice a week with the residents there. At Christmas time, I dress up as Santa Claus and hand out gifts, and I am the Easter Bunny at Easter to take pictures with the residents.

“Not only is volunteering at the Villas good exercise for me and keeps me sharp mentally, it helps me lead a fulfilling life by helping others. It’s one of the things that keeps me active and involved socially.”

Eric Groos, 59, and David Groos, 55, San Clemente Natives

Eric said, “Our charity, Great Opportuni-

ties, was established in 2002 by my brother David and me. We volunteer our time for underprivileged children who live in the District Attorney’s Orange County Gang Injunction areas, which are high density, low-income neighborhoods.

“David and I are San Clemente natives who grew up on T-Street and graduated from San Clemente High School. For decades, we were both seasonal lifeguards for the city of San Clemente and for the State of California. David retired this year. I'm still self-employed as a mobile notary public.

“David and I realized these underprivileged children did not know how to swim.

Their neighborhoods are only three to four miles from the beach, and a lot of these children have never been in the Pacific Ocean.

The program is free.

“In the summer, we take an average of 40 kids a day to different beaches and expose them to swimming, fishing, surfing, kayaking, whale watching and SUP. “We accomplish our mission with the help of our LMT (leader mentor teacher) program. These are teenagers that go through our leadership training program.

“Two senior businessmen in San Juan Capistrano help our programs a great deal.

Jim Curwood, the founder of Buy My Bikes,

“Jerry and I began volunteering as dog handlers at the San Clemente-Dana Point shelter in 2009. Both Jerry and I had a love for dogs and an interest in training them.

“We have both retired and continue to find the work at the shelter to be both mentally and physically as challenging as any work we have done. I have lost several pounds and gained strength working with some of the larger, more challenging dogs.

The other dedicated Pet Project Foundation volunteers and staff at the shelter make going to ‘work’ a real pleasure. Nothing is more satisfying than to see a dog that came in with behavior problems become a great companion to a loving new ‘parent.’”

Noreen Hitchcock, Dana Point

“I was a teacher for 31 years and brought many of my first-grade classes here when it was still called the OC Marine Institute to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants.

“Since I retired in 2012, I went from being extremely busy to doing nothing at all. There were hours in the days to fill and so volunteering seemed to be the right fit. I work in the gift shop four or five days a month.

“I love meeting and talking to people from all over the country and the world. Sometimes my Spanish has come in handy, too.

The staff members are nice and friendly. I

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

would recommend the Ocean Institute for anyone since there are a lot of different jobs where they need volunteers, besides in the gift shop.”

Martin “Martino” Gerschwitz, 65, Dana Point

Anybody living in the tri-cities area who enjoys music probably knows of Martin “Martino” Gerschwitz. He plays keyboard, violin and sings vocals and has appeared at dozens of venues in Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

Born in Germany, Martin moved to California in 1986. Martin said, “For the next 30+ years, I toured musically on four continents, in 37 countries, and in 49 states with bands such as Meat Loaf, Vanilla Fudge, Iron Butterfly and Eric Burdon and The Animals.

“I’ve recorded 10 CDs of my own original music, and in 2015, I released my first book, titled, “I Only Look Loud.”

“Music isn’t a job for me; music is my passion. Retire? I won't stop until I die, or at least until I have the success I somehow can foresee, but even then, I doubt that I'd stop.

I usually tell people that I'll play at my own funeral.”

Bernice Villanueva, Dana Point

Bernice said, “The Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center is a small learning facility located atop the Dana Point Headlands and part of the 60+ acre Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area. More than 20 docents help run the facility, engaging with visitors to learn about the natural, historical, and biological significance of our local area.

“Our docents come from varying backgrounds and specialty interests but all unite in inspiring the public on conservation and the importance of natural open spaces.

Most docents are on average 60-65, and use this volunteer experience as a chance to connect with other docents, work in a beautiful area, and keep mentally and physically active. Many are Dana Point residents, and some have volunteered since the opening of the center in 2010.”

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

Life in the Fast Lane Nearby, senior-friendly road trips for tri-city residents

BY RACHAEL MATTICE

Road trips are for the young and adventurous at heart, regardless of the individual’s real age. Oftentimes cruises, international trips and cross country excursions do not fit the needs, health and budget of many seniors still longing to check off items on their bucket list. Being geographically located in South Orange County and Southern California allots for many close trip options that are fitting for any senior lifestyle. Here are a few senior-friendly road trips tri-city residents can look into for singles, couples or even family excursions.

FOR THE OUTDOORSMEN AND HIKERS

FOR FOODIES AND SOMMELIERS

• ACQUIRE AN “AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL” NATIONAL PARK LIFETIME PASS: Arguably one of the best discounts and perks offered to seniors, the national parks lifetime senior pass and/or annual pass offers free admission to any national park in the U.S. to residents age 62 and over. For $80 for a lifetime or $20 for an annual pass, one or two road trips alone will give seniors a return on investment. Visit www.nps. gov for more details.

• NAPA OR SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA: Whether traveling north to Napa Valley or hopping on the train for a few hours to Santa Barbara, foodies and wine connoisseurs alike can enjoy a culinary road trip to one of California’s several wine pockets.

Many of these packages include guided culinary shopping, cooking classes, wine tastings and farmers’ market forays. Edible Destinations has several examples depending on location, budget, length of stay and ethnic food preferences.

• ZION NATIONAL PARK: In approximately 7.5 to 8 hours in the car, seniors can reach the magnificent Zion National Park in Utah for an extended weekend of sight-seeing, small hikes to the Lower Emerald Pools, walks along the Virgin River and dining out in Springdale. Check out www.utah.com/zionnational-park-itinerary-for-all-ages for a sample itinerary for seniors.

• YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK: For those wishing to stay within California state lines, both Yosemite and Joshua Tree National Parks offer different, but breathtaking views and experiences that can be tailored for seniors. Most of the major attractions at the 2.5-hour trip to Joshua Tree in the high desert lead travelers down Pinto Basin Road and Park Boulevard. Sample three-day itineraries are also available for all ages. Seniors can also check out what AARP offers when booking hotels near Yosemite National Park.

If considering traveling with an adult child, their “on-a-schedule” lifestyle may be different from what most retired seniors have become accustomed to. Before setting off on the road trip together, here are a few tips from SlowTrav.com to discuss so expectations from both sides are clear: • Time is relative • Provide peace of mind • Pack together; make sure luggage is accommodating to the vehicle

Where There’s a Will, There’s a Better Way

BY JAN MEYER

R

emember the movie Ghost, where Patrick Swayze is a ghost witnessing life happening without him? Let’s pretend that you’re Patrick Swayze, and you’re witnessing your family muddle through the days after your passing. Now, envision two scenarios—one where there is absolute chaos and one with order.

Behind the first door, you see that your spouse has checked out from all decision making; your bossy child has taken over; your selfish child has claimed everything for herself; your wayward son is back asking for his share; the cheapskate is yelling cremation; and your religious relative wants a family plot for you, her and your cousin, Al, whom you can’t stand and cannot fathom spending eternity with.

Door number two reveals a different scenario. Your distraught spouse and your loved ones open a box with a letter, two folders and a binder. The letter expresses your love for your family and explains that the box contains your wishes. The top folder contains a well thought out memorial service plan. The second folder has your prepaid cremation paperwork. The third document is your estate planning binder with all your other wishes, including instructions on how to manage your wayward son’s inheritance. As your loved ones mourn your loss, they also feel your love.

Above are worst-case and best-case scenarios of an afterlife. The ideal scenario falls somewhere in the middle.

Here are some tips to help get your loved ones prepared.

1. Make a list of your funeral wishes.

Handwrite a note or have it as part of an estate plan. At minimum, it should indicate your choice between cremation or burial, a big farewell or an intimate gathering, and can even include list of your favorite songs and readings. Telling your family what you want enables them

to execute your wishes without feeling like you’re being honored incorrectly.

2. Pre-plan and pre-pay your funeral expenses. It may seem morbid to order a funeral in advance, but like planning a party, it’s all in the details. There are companies that offer prepaid cremation, memorial services and burial packages.

By pre-planning and pre-paying for these services, families are left to grieve without having to make any of these decisions. No need to figure out mom’s bank account information to get funds for funeral expenses or stressing about coming up with the funds immediately.

3. Have a family roundtable. It is a difficult conversation to have for many people, but it is so important. Open communication ensures that everyone is put on notice—no surprises. Family members can ask questions and to come to terms with your decisions that may be contrary to their own wishes.

4. Get an estate plan drafted. A typical estate plan has the following documents: a revocable trust, a pour-over will, a durable power of attorney, advance health care directive, a HIPAA and a Final Disposition form. You get to appoint who will execute your wishes, who will inherit the fruits of your hard work and how, and make plans for your incapacity.

Doing all of the above will not only give you peace of mind, it will be the best love letter to your family from beyond. My clients have expressed the relief felt once the final document of their estate plan is signed, even before the ink dries. Being proactive gets the proverbial monkey off your back so you can go on with the best part of life—living!

Jan Meyer owns her own trusts and estates law office in Dana Point. Since opening her practice seven years ago, Jan’s focus has been on guiding families and individuals with comprehensive family protection planning.

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FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

Technology Etiquette

Online Dating Sites & Advice for Seniors

BY TOM BLAKE

Many senior couples have met via online dating sites.

For people living in small towns or remote areas, internet dating may be one of their only choices to meet potential mates.

But seniors using these sites must be extremely cautious.

Here’s why: • Online dating sites are in business to make money—your money—make no mistake about it. Some advertise as being “free” sites, but to get the full benefit of those sites, you must upgrade to paid memberships.

• Some sites lure you in with free offers to browse photos of “singles” within the geographical area you choose and the age range you seek. But to communicate with those people you see, if they even exist, requires payment. And even then, I hear from seniors who have been totally misled by some sites.

• Many sites sign you up for a month, but end up charging you for a year. Breaking your contract can be a nightmare as can getting a refund. Auto renewals end up costing you even more, and trying to get out of those commitments is almost impossible. Customer service? You might hear a recording like this: “Due to unusual call volume, please call back later (or tomorrow).”

• Most sites make you sign a disclaimer that allows them to use the information you post. Your personal info is no longer yours. Some sell your information to other sites.

• And then there are online dating scams. The Federal Trade Commission states that “millions of Americans use dating sites, social networking sites, and chat rooms to meet people. And many forge successful relationships. But scammers also use these sites to meet potential victims.

They create fake profiles to build online relationships, and eventually convince people to send money in the name of love. Some even make wedding plans before disappearing with the money. An online love interest who asks for money is almost certainly a scam artist.”

To avoid some of those negative experiences with online dating, make sure you read and understand the subscription policy of a website before signing a contract and paying with your credit card.

It’s also best to do some research before signing up for any site. Check dating service reviews on websites like DatingCop.com, Consumeraffairs.com, Huffingtonpost.com, and Sitejabber.com. (But be aware that DatingCop will try to get you to click on dating sites they are promoting and benefitting from.) RomanceScams.com is also a must to visit before online dating. You will learn a great deal about scammers and how to avoid them.

To compare many dating site prices, visit www.giveyourhandabreak.com/price.

for Seniors

BY TOM BLAKE

Cellphones • Poor cellphone etiquette is becoming an epidemic.

People turn on cellphone speakers in restaurants, pubs, buses, trains, malls, stores and they speak too loud. It’s rude. When in public, be considerate of those around you.

• Never answer your phone or view a text while on a first date, or any date. It’s poor etiquette. That call or message can wait.

And remember—dating sites are in business to make money.

With those comments in mind, here are some apps seniors might want to use: Meetup.com: The most important dating app for seniors is not a dating app at all. Rather, it’s Meetup.com, which provides a wealth of information on activities and places to go for seniors.

When singles get out and mingle with others, they vastly improve their chances of meeting potential mates. And the best app for that is Meetup.com. It has 80,000 meetup groups in 100 countries. The Meetup website states that there are 6,019 meetups “nearby” to South Orange County.

Meetup users can search within whatever mileage radius around their city they want. And the website shows the number of members within each group—it might be just a few people or hundreds. People can even create their own meetup group if there isn’t an existing group to their liking.

And best of all, there is no cost to use this site.

Our Time: Bills itself as the premier online dating destination for seniors. Monthly cost is $29.96. Six months cost $107.76. Our Time owns the Match.com group, POF (Plenty of Fish), OkCupid, Tinder and BlackPeopleMeet, among others. Each of the Our Time sites have the identical dating “Safety Tips,” which are critical to read.

SeniorPeopleMeet.com: Seniors can view 15 free valuable dating articles without having to sign up, including “A Crash Course in Online Dating Tips,” and “5 Age-Defying Dating Tips.” Read them all. Cost: $29.97 per month. $90 for six months. This site is free to browse/view mature singles, but to interact with those singles, you will need to subscribe.

Finding Love after 50 Facebook Group: Free. About 500 members. Must request to become a member. Owner (me) will approve or disapprove you. eHarmony.com: Extensive personality questionnaires are long and tedious—do they help? The cost is about $60 per month. Some reviews warn that it’s hard to terminate your contract.

Primetimelove.com: There are several positive reviews on sitejabber.com. See “Mature Dating Tips” on the website homepage.

FarmersOnly.com: For people in remote areas, ranchers and farmers. A man I know in West Texas found his mate on this site.

In addition to using the internet for dating, the two best ways for seniors to meet potential mates are: Networking: Tell your friends and relatives you’d like to meet a potential mate. They might know of someone who would be perfect for you.

Being social: Get off the couch, out of the house and involved in activities you enjoy. This will help you meet potential mates you share interests with.

• Shopping lists are often stored on cellphones. Brilliant idea. But, don’t stop in the middle of a busy aisle in Costco to look at it or text. Same goes if you must call your spouse about an item on the list. Step away from others and out of the flow of shopping carts. It’s just common courtesy.

• When texting, you’re distracted. In your car, it’s rude, dangerous and against the law. Phone use by sidewalk pedestrians is becoming more and more pervasive and intrusive. They often walk into others without even noticing.

• Many of us probably share a common pet peeve: The traffic light turns green, but the car in front of you doesn’t move. The driver is either having a senior moment, or using a cellphone. You give a short beep and they flip you the bird. Don’t be one of those creeps.

Computer/Tablets • Sending copies of emails to multiple recipients via “cc,” instead of via “bcc,” is unprofessional.

• Emails without paragraph breaks—seniors do it often. I receive page-long emails without a paragraph break. Senders get a stream of consciousness going and don’t come up for air. It makes it hard to read and wastes the recipient’s time. Hit the “enter” key occasionally. Also, to prevent atrocious spelling and grammar, use spell check or even grammar check if necessary.

• People’s attitudes show through in emails. They may begin or end an email very abruptly without common courtesy. The solution? Write emails as if you are talking face-to-face with the recipient. Make emails as pleasant as possible.

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the Beach Cities Senior Club will take a deluxe motor coach from the Dana Point Community Center to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library. Lunch will be at the library or Mimi’s. To sign up, contact Evie Love at 949.496.4109. Guests must arrive 30 minutes before departure time. Cost is $99. 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point.

October 01 Dana Point Art Festival The annual Dana Point Art Fest will feature one-of-a-kind art for sale from more than 100 local artists, with booths lined along Del Prado Avenue. The event will be held from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and includes free admission and free parking. Live music will also take place throughout the day. Applications from both amateur and professional artists are encouraged. Interested artists can find out more at dpartfest.com or by emailing dpartfest@gmail.com.

01 30th Annual San Clemente SeaFest Taking place 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. on the Pier, SeaFest includes a surf contest, art exhibits and other entertainment for all ages. Attendees can also taste test some of the best chowders in San Clemente during the annual chowder cook-off. Call the San Clemente Chamber at 949.492.1131 or visit www.scchamber.com for ticket prices and information.

07 The Vintage Food & Wine Festival Sample signature dishes and beverages from local San Juan Capistrano restaurants, wineries and breweries at the San Juan Chamber of Commerce’s 21st annual Vintage Food & Wine Festival. Tickets include food, wine and beer tastings, with entertainment and dancing, too. The event takes place from 6-10 p.m. at Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. Visit www.vintagesjc. com for tickets and information or call 949.493.4700.

11 Casa Wellness: Yoga Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens hosts monthly classes blending multiple yoga disciplines into an integrated practice suitable for beginner and seasoned yogis. Admission is $5 for guests

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

11 Veterans Day Program Join the city of Dana Point and VFW Post 9934 for an unveiling of the updated memorial plaques at the Dana Point Veterans Memorial. The program will take place from 10 a.m. to noon on Selva Road at Strand Beach, just off the Pacific Coast Highway. Visit www.vfwpost9934.org/contact for more information.

The Vintage Food & Wine Festival

Hit the Town

Fall & Winter 2017 Events Calendar for Seniors

BY STAFF

and members are free. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. Visit Facebook @casaromanticasc for more events.

14 Goin Native’s Fall Fest Experience a new fall festival at Reata Park with speakers, exhibitors, workshops, food trucks and live music. Eat, drink, plant and learn at Reata Park and Event Center from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets are $5. 28632 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

16 iHope Golf Classic Register for the iHope Golf Classic tournament to benefit local at-risk and homeless populations. Hosted at Bella Collina in San Clemente,

San Clemente SeaFest

the event takes place from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. followed by a cocktail hour, auction, dinner and awards. Register online at www.iHOPEoc.org and click on “iHope Golf Tournament.” Call 949.322.7845 for more information.

20 Oktoberfest Luncheon and Party Seniors can get ready to party German-style at the Dana Point Senior Center’s Oktoberfest luncheon and party. Entertainment is to be announced. The luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

A donation of $4.50 is encouraged. 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point. 949.496.4252.

tion. 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente.

November Sept 7 – Nov 16 Senior Tennis Clinic A clinic for seniors who love tennis and want to learn a few new skills of the game. Players are required to bring their own tennis racket and appropriate shoes. Register online for the San Gorgonio Park course at www.san-clemente.org/ recreation. 2916 Via San Gorgonio, San Clemente.

26 Senior Twilight Dinner The Dana Point Senior Center is hosting an evening dinner for seniors ages 50 and older at $10 per person, which includes a meal from a local Dana Point restaurant and entertainment. The dinner begins at 5 p.m., and doors open at 4:45 p.m. Reservations are required. Call Monique Leon to reserve at 949.248.3507. 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point.

07 Boomer Fitness Seniors can get fit for fall and winter with this class incorporating weights at the Community Center in San Clemente. Classes are held on Tuesdays Nov. 7 through Dec. 19 from 9-9:55 a.m. Cost is $70. Thursday classes run Nov. 9 through Dec. 21 from 9-9:55 a.m. and cost $60. A one-time fee of $3 is also due on the first day of class.

Register at www.san-clemente. org/recreation. 100 N Calle Seville, San Clemente.

28 Bingo Saturday Night Live Join the Dorothy Visser Senior Center for a night of fun. Call 949.498.3322 for more informa-

08 Senior Club Trip to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library Members and non-members of

23 Senior Twilight Dinner The Dana Point Senior Center is hosting an evening dinner for seniors at $10 per person and includes a meal from a local Dana Point restaurant. Entertainment is also included and reservations are required. Call Monique Leon to reserve at 949.248.3507. 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point.

December 02 Dana Point Winter Festival & Tree Lighting Artisans of all ages are wanted to be a part of Dana Point’s winter festival and tree lighting ceremony.

Booth space fee is $40 for those wanting to show off their craft.

Call 949.248.3530 or email recreation@danapoint.org for more information.

02 Christmas at the Mission Celebrate the holidays with Mission San Juan Capistrano. Held in conjunction with the city of San Juan Capistrano’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and community-wide holiday celebration, the event runs from 5:30 – 8 p.m.

Bring the family and enjoy “Merryachi” music, real snow sledding, cookie decorating, carolers and more. 26801 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano.

03 Yappy Howl-iday Celebration The monthly puppy happy hour takes on a holiday theme. Canines and their companions have the opportunity to be photographed with Santa Claus. Guests are asked to bring unopened cans of dog food, treats or dog toys to be donated to an animal rescue center. The event will be held from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The Ritz Carlton, 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point.

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FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART athletic favorites.

Offering more than 40 adult classes, both Davis and Muraira noted that their dance and workout classes such as Jazzercise and several disciplines of yoga are among their most attended.

Other community favorites are the aquatics classes offered through the city, as they offer high physical output in a fun atmosphere without the high-impact nature of other athletic activities.

“We work hard to complement our incredible senior center,” Davis explained. “For example, they have a fantastic gym at the senior center, but with our (growing) aquatic facility resources, we can offer a very wellrounded program.”

A full schedule of the adult recreational class offerings, in addition to a wide variety of other programs, can be found on each city’s website.

Essential Assistance Maureen Stewart leads a class through a Jazzercise routine, a favorite at the San Clemente Community Center.

Photo: Danny Ritz

Senior Center Month

Celebrating Seniors in September

BY DANNY RITZ

In 1985, then-President Ronald Reagan signed off on National Senior Center Week with a presidential proclamation. Since then, the National Institute of Senior Centers has expanded the week to a month-long celebration recognizing the “mastery of aging.”

Every September since 2007, the N.I.S.C has encouraged communities to honor the diverse range of opportunities available at their local senior centers and take part in the creation of a positive image of aging.

For any one of the more than 200,000 citizens of South Orange County over the age of 65, there is an abundance of opportunities to continue their intellectual growth, enhance their physical fitness, and connect to age-specific health services in the area.

Continuing Education Dan Predoehl is the Assistant Dean of the Division of Community Education, Emeritus Institute and K-12 partnerships, and the Director of the Emeritus Institute of Saddle-

back College—a “college within a college,” as he puts it. Working cooperatively with senior centers in every major city in South Orange County, the Emeritus Institute serves more than 6,000 adult students with free graduate-level off-campus education classes.

These not-for-credit courses are held to the same curriculum standard as any other California Community College system class.

After gauging academic necessity and social interest, all classes have to pass through department chairs, curriculum committees, academic councils, and the Board of Trustees before being approved by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office.

Dan Predoehl. Photo: Danny Ritz This process, in addition to minimum requirements for instructors, ensures that the Emeritus Institute classes appeal to most, if not all, of what Predoehl calls the Emeritus Institute’s “four pillars.”

“These courses are to be academically rigorous, mentally stimulating, socially engaging and health improving,” Predoehl said.

Predoehl said he enjoys working in “nontraditional” age education, as he regularly

sees students participating in his programs for the “pure joy of learning.”

“Yes, our students are learning content, but they are getting intrinsic value from their classes,” Predoehl explained. “We’re offering more than just something for people to do.”

Offering more than 50 classes this fall, more information on the Emeritus Institute can be found at their website, www. saddleback.edu/emeritus, or by phone at 949.582.4835.

Pure Recreation When it comes to recreation opportunities in San Clemente, Samantha Davis, the city’s recreation manager, and Melissa Muraira, the city’s recreation coordinator, are focused on one crucial thing.

“We’re here to make sure you’re having fun,” Davis said laughing.

A recently conducted demographic survey shows that 35 percent of San Clemente’s population is over the age of 55, and the city earnestly gauges what recreational activities are preferred by its aging population.

“Our adult classes are open to everyone, but predominately attended by the 55 and older community,” Muraira said. “Our instructors are very receptive to particular needs.”

Muraira is in charge of the recreational class offerings by the city of San Clemente, and has recognized a growing interest in the arts in comparison to the more traditional

In addition to the previously mentioned educational and recreational activities in the area, local senior centers also provide a much-needed age-appropriate support network for community members.

Cathy Lee is the director of the Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente, where she works cooperatively with the city of San Clemente as an employee of Age Well Senior Services. Age Well is a nonprofit, public benefit 501(c)(3) organization based out of Laguna Hills.

At the Dorothy Visser Senior Center, Lee and her team offer a wide variety of services such as AARP Smart Driver courses, blood pressure checks, braille and visual aids courses, legal aid and case management (by appointment only).

All 11 Age Well Senior Center locations in South Orange County—including San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente— provide a crucial nutritional program as well.

Free to community members over 60 years old (with a recommended donation of $4.50 and $6 for anyone 60 years or younger), Age Well Senior Centers provide an appealing and nutritional daily congregate lunch.

Meals on Wheels services are also accessible for those in need of in-home service.

Kathleen Wiltse, the nutritional site manager of the Age Well branch at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, also emphasized the importance of the ethnic diversity of her staff, and how increasing that diversity allows their programs to become more relatable and better suited for the community’s needs.

“We have a large Hispanic population here in San Juan Capistrano, and with the addition of Spanish-speaking staff members and activities, we have seen a substantial increase in Hispanic community members attending the senior center,” Wiltse said.

For information about your nearest senior center, visit your city’s website or contact Age Well Senior Centers at 949.855.8033 or visit www.agewellseniorservices.org.

Reliant on donations, Age Well welcomes the public’s support through donations to ensure their continuance in assisting the senior community of South Orange County. •

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FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

No Freeload Zone It is suggested by experts to set a pre-determined rent, or room and board price, that is comfortable for both parents and children returning home. Establishment of this precedent is beneficial to the parents who can be proud that they are instilling independent values in their children, and also will build confidence in the adult child who can feel they are making a tangible contribution to the home.

Nothing Is Not an Option Ideally, the adult child is earning some income, and the return home is temporary due to an unfortunate or unforeseen incident, but it is important to remember that even if this is not the case, there are options. Parents might suggest that adult children, in the interim, perform odd jobs or tasks around the home in the parent’s place to save money.

Respect the Space

Beneficial Boundaries Creating a positive atmosphere when an adult child moves back home

BY DANNY RITZ

The phrase “boomerang child” might seem more fun than it is, for everyone involved. With an increasingly competitive job market—a result of rising college graduation rates and decreasing job opportunities for most of the last decade—adult children are returning home to “the nest” more than ever before.

In a study conducted in 2012, the Pew Research Center found that 29 percent of parents reported the economic downturn had caused their children to move back in with them within the past two years.

“A generation ago, living with your parents wouldn’t have been accepted if you were an adult,” said Christina Newberry, author of The Hands-On Guide to Surviving Adult Children Living at Home. “That stigma isn’t there anymore.”

Experts universally agree that frowned upon or not, such

living arrangements can be a positive experience, but can also be cause for family conflict if strict guidelines are not set and adhered to.

With a recovering but fluctuating economy, and the high cost of living familiar to Southern Californian residents, we’ve compiled a few guidelines from the experts that should be agreed upon in multigenerational homes to secure both financial progress and peace of mind.

It is important for parents of multigenerational homes to establish pre-set ground rules and proper habits concerning guests. These can be individual to each parent's needs, but topics such as the number of guests, romantic partners, and personal habits such as drinking or smoking, should be discussed to avoid both figurative, and literal, pollution of a parent’s space.

See the Light “Don’t assume your child will leave when the time is right,” Newberry said. A “move-out” goal date will help the adult child that has returned home reach independence as they pursue a new life-path under a deadline. Presuming the intention of desired independence of the adult child, these timelines should be realistic and made to the comfort of all parties involved.

Stand Your Ground It should be understood that if these guidelines are not strictly adhered to, the adult child will not be able to maintain a residence in the home. "Many parents who have adult children living with them are too timid and always tip-toe around their kids," says personal finance expert Lynette Khalfani-Cox. "If anything, it should be the other way around."

Living in a multigenerational home can be a positive experience for both the adult child and their parents if guidelines such as these are adhered to. Clear communication, honesty, and respect for the consequences of not following these guidelines can ensure that a house actually remains a home.

aging well |

A Classical

Kind of Life San Clemente guitarist continues to find and give inspiration through his music

BY DANNY RITZ

Randy Pile takes a break after playing a set with the Saddleback Ensemble. Photo: Danny Ritz

Much like the classical music he plays, Randy Pile, of San Clemente, continues to inspire.

His lifelong loyalty to the craft, both in honing his talents and sharing his knowledge, has been a large part of maintaining his health and happiness into his 60s. As a student, a performer, and an educator, Pile has enriched many lives across the world in addition to his own.

At 63, Pile has been playing the classical guitar for over 50 years. Born in North Dakota, he first picked up the nylon-stringed instrument at age 10.

“It was my brother’s,” Pile recalled. “I don’t think he ever learned, because I always had it!”

After learning his fundamentals through lessons, Pile had his first experience teaching when he took a job conducting guitar lessons at a local music store at 15 years of age in Northern California.

“I guess you could say I’ve been teaching ever since” he said.

Infatuated with the instrument, Pile found himself unable to join in the rock n’ roll and pop music groups his peers were starting at the time.

“With pop music, I find that the first time I hear it, it’s the best. It’s a powerful art form, and each subsequent listening awakens great memories for me,” Pile said. “With classical music, I find that each time I listen to it, it reveals something new to me. It isn’t reminiscent; it's alive, active.”

Following his passion, Pile studied music at the University of California Berkeley, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in music.

After learning that the internationally renowned guitarist Pepe Romero, the son of universally recognized Celedonio Romero of “Los Romeros: The Royal Family of the Guitar,” would be moving from teaching at the University of Southern California to The University of California-San Diego, Pile made the immediate decision to become his understudy.

The move to Southern California opened unprecedented doors for Pile as he not only earned a master’s degree and later a doctorate degree studying under Romero, Sr., but he also managed to step into "Los Romeros," with Celedonio, Celin, and Pepe. Stepping in for either one of the sons or the father, Pile began traveling the world playing five-star concert venues for elite musical audiences.

After gaining international respect traveling as a member of the highest regarded Spanish guitar ensemble in the world, Pile returned home to Southern California.

Pile became a touring artist for the California Arts Council, where he traveled the state with other Californian artists playing shows as well as entering the local music education programs.

In 2000, the Arts Council ran out of funding, and Pile began receiving calls to teach in Orange County.

Today, Pile teaches at Orange Coast College and Saddleback College and occasion-

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

ally gives private lessons. Pile said he has recognized his potential to inspire the youth.

“In more guided classes, you might have five or six special students, and they might make something of themselves,” Pile said.

“That’s great, really great, but they usually wind up with a high level of skill and possibly a poor quality of life. I enjoy introducing the art to many students and seeing 50 sets of eyes light up, seeing 50 sets of eyes realize how special and how personal this is.”

The personal experience of the classical guitar is important to Pile.

“I never really knew where this was all going,” he said. “I just like to think that I made myself available to the opportunities. I had opportunities to do other things, to take jobs I wouldn’t like, or relocate, and I just stuck with what I actually loved. It isn't hard; music is so fulfilling."

Now, after years of teaching heavily, Pile says that performance opportunities are becoming prevalent again. He recently returned from Canada after performing for guitar societies, guitar festivals, and in major concert halls.

When asked about what his experience with music was like these days, Pile said, “If you don’t learn when you’re young, it becomes too intellectual when you’re older, more complex. For me now, it's intuitive.

Music's simple.”

By keeping his passion a central component in his life choices, Pile continues to play a song we can all enjoy and grow from. •

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Romance of the Mission Gala Raises $221K for Mission San Juan Preservation

Eftihia dancers perform traditional Greek dances at the San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival on Sept. 17.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

Greek Festival Delights with Traditional Dance

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S Mission San Juan Capistrano Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence Adams and Barb Beier, director of development. Photo: Carla Rhea THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he Mission Preservation Foundation held its annual Romance of the Mission benefit gala on the grounds of Mission San Juan Capistrano on Sept. 15.

Over 450 guests attended the black-tie fundraiser, which netted $221,000 for the preservation of Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Mission San Juan Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence Adams was joined by Mission Preservation Foundation President

aint Basil Greek Orthodox Church hosted its annual San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival Sept. 16-17. Each year, the free weekend-long event invites the public to celebrate all aspects of Greek culture and cuisine—from dancing and live Greek music, to Greek coffee and pastries. For more information on Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, visit www.stbasiloc.org. CD

Vocalist Heather Headley with the gala’s honorees, Sheila and Jim Peterson, of San Juan Capistrano.

Photo: Carla Rhea

George O’Connell to celebrate San Juan residents and Orange County philanthropists Sheila and Jim Peterson for their ongoing support of Mission preservation efforts.

“The Romance of the Mission gala is the foundation from which we spring-board to action for the next year,” Lawrence Adams said. “Tonight’s event gives us the financial, and in some cases spiritual and emotional, wherewithal to keep up that fight—to do all that we can to make sure that this landmark

Vocalist Heather Headley performs in the ruins of the Great Stone Church during the Romance of the Mission gala on Sept. 15. Photo: Tereza Harper

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

is never forgotten as a place of inspiration, education and preservation.”

The evening also included a concert in the ruins of the Great Stone Church, featuring Tony and Grammy award-winning vocalist Heather Headley.

Headley’s performance began with an acapella version of Amazing Grace and culminated with a 12-member choir joining her on stage for a soulful rendition of “When the Swallows Come Back to Capistrano,”

followed by Elton John’s “My Song” and “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand).”

“I’m humbled and honored to perform in this beautiful, sacred space,” Headley said.

Following the concert, the Mission bells were rung, and guests enjoyed dinner in the central courtyard presented by The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel.

To learn nmore about preservation of the Mission, visit www.missionsjc.com. CD

Guests enjoy the ringing of the Mission bells following a concert in the ruins of the Great Stone Church.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

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SJC LIVING

Living Proof Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum reopens, making pre-Mission history accessible to the masses

PHOTOS AND TEXT BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

t was a clear, sunny afternoon along El Camino Real as dozens of residents, city officials, community leaders and members of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, gathered around the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center for the center’s long awaited grand reopening.

Museum curator Domingo Belardes, of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, addressed the crowd with an emotional speech—thanking the city, the museum’s board, volunteers, family and friends for their constant support and work to reopen the museum after more than two years of closures.

Over the last few years, Belardes has worked diligently with the city and the Blas Aguilar Adobe Foundation to renovate the 223-year-old adobe, create a native garden, and restore the courtyard between the Blas Aguilar Adobe and Casa Tejada (a former neighboring adobe), which now 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 Capistrano and Acjachemen his-

The Blas Aguilar Adobe, circa 1930s. Photo: Courtesy of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society

tory with those who visit.

As the Aug. 26 grand reopening progressed, Belardes invited some tribal members to pray and honor their ancestors in song. Members of the crowd held up their phones, ready to record the significant moment and share it with those who couldn’t be there in person. As Belardes prepared the group of singers, a question rang out—would he allow videotaping of the singing?

“We don’t do this very often to be picky anymore,” Belardes said smiling.

The decision to allow people to record and share such a significant moment in San Juan Capistrano’s history was easy for Belardes. His goal with the museum and

in hosting future events is to share history and Acjachemen and Juaneño culture with future generations so that it can thrive and live on.

“You’ve got to video tape. We’ve got to be able to show this to kids, so they can see this on a computer,” Belardes said.

“We have to get it out there and into their realm.”

Belardes could even be seen carrying a sign he said his daughter “made him” bring to the event—a large blue QR code that when scanned by a phone, will direct people to the museum’s Facebook page.

(He admitted he wasn’t quite sure how to use it.)

“We do this to show our young ones,

our little ones, that this is what we can do,” Belardes. “This is still alive, and we’re proud of who we are.”

Belardes said it’s been a “big undertaking”—relaying traditions to younger generations, like singing to honor their ancestors. He said times have changed from the slower way of life, when sharing oral histories was the dominant form of communication.

“Today, people are busy,” Belardes said.

“People came here today, and some had to leave early due to other commitments. It’s how life is.”

Belardes told the crowd that much of the work on the outside of the building— like the native garden with plants from

Left: Ellen Sue Olivares Schneider, and her aunt, Teeter Romero, of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, showcased traditional and contemporary basket weaving at the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum’s grand reopening. Right: Domingo Belardes sings alongside Steven Villa, of Mission Viejo, as they honor their ancestors during the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum’s grand reopening.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

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SJC LIVING Tree of Life Nursery and the walkways with ADA access—were all measures taken to make the museum more inviting for residents and tourists who come through San Juan. He hopes people will take the time to visit the center and learn from volunteer docents.

“It’s one thing to come into a building and see artifacts that somebody had touched thousands of years ago or hundreds of years ago, but it’s totally different to see the people who descend from them, who hang on to that culture and that heritage and still practice it,” Belardes said.

“And that’s what the basis for the adobe is—that we’re still here, and we haven’t gone anywhere.”

The Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center is located at 31806 El Camino Real. The museum is open Friday, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., although Belardes noted that he hopes to expand those hours.

“We’re volunteer-based. If you guys have got nothing to do, I’m here after work; come visit me,” he said with a grin.

For videos from the Blas Aguilar Adobe’s grand reopening, extended interviews, and a full photo gallery (including before and after photos of the adobe), view the online version of this story at www. thecapistranodispatch.com.

For more information on the Blas Aguilar Adobe, follow the museum on Facebook @blasaguilaradobe. CD

Domingo Belardes, curator of the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center, worked tirelessly with the city and the museum’s board to restore the adobe over several years.

SJC LIVING

Staff Sgt. Reckless, a decorated war horse, circa 1957.

Photo: Courtesy of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society

GUEST OPINION: Then & Now By Rhonda deHaan

In Celebration of True Heroes

I

n the last issue of The Dispatch, columnist Jan Siegel mentioned that this year is Camp Pendleton’s 75th anniversary.

In honor of the occasion and our local WWII heroes, the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society is hosting a dinner and movie premiere of Bob Kline’s Pendleton at 75: The History of Camp Pendleton on Monday, Sept. 25, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the historic El Adobe de Capistrano.

There is another anniversary and military hero I’d like to tell you about. The old photo featured above was taken of a special horse named Reckless. Reckless THEN AND NOW served with the Marines

By Rhonda during the Korean War. deHann The story goes that in 1952, Lt. Eric Pederson bought the horse from a young Korean boy in Seoul for $250. Soon after, she was trained to carry ammunition for a Recoilless Rifle platoon in the 5th Marines.

But it was in 1953 that Reckless proved she was a true Marine. In March, the Chinese launched an attack that resulted in one of the fiercest battles in Marine history: the Battle for Outpost Vegas.

The battle went on for five days. In one day alone, Reckless carried nearly five tons of ammunition over treacherous terrain, making 51 trips over 35 miles through heavy enemy fire. Although wounded twice, she continued transporting munitions and wounded Marines up and down the steep slopes.

Many owe their lives to that spunky little horse, and she was beloved by all.

Page 32

About a year ago, a statue of Sgt. Reckless was unveiled at Camp Pendleton. Photo: Courtesy of the U.S. Marine Corps

Some say an angel watched over Reckless that day, and stories of her bravery spread far and wide. She was awarded the Purple Heart, promoted to sergeant and, at the end of the war, she came to Camp Pendleton with her division.

Reckless stayed at Camp Pendleton, and when she passed away in 1968, she was buried there. Nearly a year ago, a life-sized bronze statue of Reckless was unveiled at the base as a tribute to a true Marine hero.

Rhonda deHaan is a 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

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SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Dirt Therapy By Marianne Taylor

Respite Care: Unplug & Connect in the Garden

I

n this rapid world of stressful news and a constant barrage of email and text messages, there’s never been a more important time to really unplug, unwind and restore your soul.

The first step is to get your hands off of your phones and computers and into the dirt. You may not have a garden, but not to worry—there are many volunteer garden opportunities calling your name. You’ll learn a new skill, meet new friends and develop a healthy lifestyle.

We are social creatures of connection; we need human interaction to thrive.

Whether it is your own garden or supporting the efforts of a community garden, you are contributing to a larger social web and ties that are oftentimes overlooked.

Social ties are important to the wellbeing of people in a community, since they can encourage positive health effects and community involvement. Community gardens allow for the creation of social connection and build a greater feeling of community.

These connections help reduce crime, empower residents and allow residents to feel safe in their neighborhoods.

Gardens have been an important aspect of many cultures throughout history. In the past, community gardens were commonly used to provide food for families year-round. During World War II, victory gardens were an important source of food for American families.

Community gardens can provide fresh, healthy produce for residents, and allow them to reduce their food bills. Many cities and organizations provide opportunities for residents to become involved with community gardens. Check your city for availability to lease a garden plot. Growing your own food provides respite care—a chance to slow down, simplify and calm the mind.

Maybe you would rather connect in the garden at The Ecology Center, which

offers volunteers an opportunity to learn and work in their abundant gardens. Or there’s Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano, which offers weekly volunteer opportunities to care for and maintain the butterfly gardens. Working side by side with volunteers has a hypnotic effect, calming the brain and reducing stress from everyday demands. Not only are you cultivating a beneficial garden, you’re cultivating beneficial relationships. Amazing things happen when people gather in the garden—we find a common ground. We learn that we are not alone.

Join us at Fall Fest on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Reata Park and Event Center to connect and engage in nature. Learn DIRT THERAPY something new; bring

By Marrianne an instrument, jam with Taylor the bluegrass bands; kiss a pony; enjoy the day in nature and be amazed what happens when you gather with community in the garden. For more details on Fall Fest and other programs and volunteer garden opportunities, please check out www.goinnative.net.

Marianne Taylor, of San Juan Capistrano, is the founder and executive director of Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens, a 501(c)(3) teaching gardening and life skills as a way of empowering, engaging and connecting people. Goin Native focuses on educating local families, special needs adults, seniors, at-risk youth and members of the military. 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

Solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Page 34

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SJC LIVING

Operation School Bell to Help Students in Need Assistance League of Capistrano Valley program to provide clothes for 1,100 children THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

E Photo: Courtesy of Orange County Archives

FROM THE ARCHIVES

A group of guests and their feathered friends enjoy Mission San Juan Capistrano in this March 13, 1935 photo from the Tom Pulley Postcard Collection.

Do you have a historical image you’d like to see featured? Email submissions to ajarrell@picketfencemedia.com, along with a brief caption and photo credit.

lementary and middle school students in need of assistance with school clothing, will be provided with “shopping events” at Target in San Clemente as part of Operation School Bell, the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley’s (ALCV) main philanthropic program.

With the guidance of ALCV volunteers, students select and purchase school clothing of their choice. Students also receive personal care kits and a gift card for new shoes at Payless Shoes.

Operation School Bell expects to provide school clothes for 1,100 children from 28 schools from the Capistrano Unified School District. For more information, visit www.assistanceleague.org/capistrano-valley. CD

Obituary: Willis E. (Bill) Hardy, U.S. Navy, Retired

C

mdr. Willis E. (Bill) Hardy, U.S. Navy, Retired, of San Juan Capistrano, passed away peacefully at age 97 in the loving company of his family on Sept.

15. He is survived by his wife of 72 years Marilyn Burke Hardy, daughters Charlee Hardy (Ed Riggs) and Sandra Hardy Reigel (Don), five grandchildren, brother John Hardy (Sue), sister Betty Jacobs (Johnnie), nephews and nieces. His daughter Annette Hardy Hutchins and several brothers and sisters predeceased him.

Cmdr. Hardy was a long-time resident of San Juan Capistrano, and a native Californian. He was born in Corning, California in 1920 to Willis and Lulu Hardy, the oldest of nine children. He graduated from San Diego Academy, and was working his way through Southern California Junior College by milking cows when the call of adventure enticed him to join the U.S. Navy in 1939.

He flew Corsair aircraft in early war missions and supported the United States Marine Corps in the 1945 invasion of Iwo Jima through preemptive aerial bombing

destruction of gun caves on Mount Suribachi. As a lieutenant junior grade, Cmdr.

Hardy earned the distinction of Ace in a Day by shooting down five enemy aircrafts that were on an aerial suicide mission in the Pacific.

In 1959, Cmdr. Hardy retired from the United States Navy as a commander, was an avid antique restorer, and had a successful career in aerospace for North American Rockwell and the Collins Radio Division.

He was a proud member and advocate of the American Fighter Aces Association, where he served in a variety of roles including president. He has been honored for his service by a number of organizations and institutions, including the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. His military service decorations included the Navy Cross, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with four gold stars, and the Presidential Unit Citation.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 29, at 1 p.m. at McCormick & Son Mortuaries in Laguna Hills.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

Bill Hardy had just returned from a combat cruise in F6F Hellcats on the aircraft carrier USS Hornet and later converted to F4U Corsairs at Fallon Air Base. Photo circa VJ Day, 1945. Photo: Courtesy of Homefront America

A military funeral service will be held at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego on Monday, Oct. 30, at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Cmdr. Bill Hardy can be made

Page 36

to the American Fighter Aces Association, c/o Matt Hayes, Museum of Flight, 9404 E. Marginal Way South, Seattle, WA, 981084094 or online at www.museumofflight.org/ giving/donate. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

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

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

HELP WANTED WANTED: AFTERMARKET AUTO PARTS SALESPERSON You are a motivated, energetic salesperson with several years experience selling automotive aftermarket parts and assemblies to auto repair shops, dealerships and/or parts distribution centers, preferably in California.

Compensation will be commensurate with your experience and industry standards.

We are a San Juan Capistrano-based manufacturers rep for China’s largest network of high-quality auto parts suppliers.

Please send your resume and cover letter to: jobs@naautoparts.us

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949.388.7700 ext. 104 The Capistrano Dispatch September 22-October 12, 2017

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Matt Robinson’s Patience Key to JSerra’s Success Quarterback’s pocket presence a revelation for Lions offense

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

W

ith the ball at Vista Murrieta’s 25-yard line, his team up by nine in the third quarter, JSerra quarterback Matt Robinson saw receiver Munir McClain had single coverage against him on the outside.

He took the snap and scurried some 15 yards backwards as the Broncos blitzed.

He glanced to the left, drawing the lone Vista Murrieta safety over, narrowly avoided a sack, rolled right and threw a deep ball off one foot from what was now the 43.

The long ball found McClain inside the five-yard line and he was pushed out at the two. The pass set up a rushing touchdown on the next series and JSerra went on to win.

It was a highlight reel play, for sure. But it was also a testament to Robinson’s newfound skill in patiently waiting for things to unfold in front of him.

In years past, Robinson was known as a solid passer that could extend drives with his legs. He threw for just over 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior, but was also the team’s second-leading rusher, averaging 41.7 yards per game on the ground. He is very swift on his feet and has the ability to make opponents miss.

With no defender in sight, the Robinson of 2016 might have taken that third-quar-

ter ball against Vista Murrieta and ran it all the way for a touchdown. That’s what his coach, Pat Harlow, wanted him to do.

Regardless, the first-year coach was happy with the result.

“I wish he would have ran that one in,” Harlow said with a smile. “But he’s truly become a pocket quarterback. When he’s felt pressure he’s been able to step up and do the right thing with the ball. He’s improved in that area tremendously.”

When Harlow took over the program in the offseason he wanted Robinson to be more committed to staying in the pocket.

The idea being it would play to everyone’s strengths.

The Lions have a large and physical offensive line. There are playmakers at nearly every skill position and they have a quarterback with a canon for an arm and three years of experience starting in the Trinity League under his belt.

The combination produced a highpowered offense that has not been seen at JSerra in quite some time, maybe ever.

The undefeated Lions (4-0), ranked 13th in the state according to www.calhisports. com, are averaging 44.5 points per game.

They scored 45 against Corona del Mar in the season opener, dropped 48 on Alemany the next week and scored a seasonhigh 59 points in a win over Bishop Amat.

Robinson, a Montana commit, and his arm have been the catalyst.

JSerra’s Matt Robinson is averaging 279 passing yards per game, the fifth-highest mark in Orange County.

Photo: Steve Breazeale

The Capistrano Dispatch September 22–October 12, 2017

JSerra quarterback Matt Robinson has made a commitment to staying in the pocket and the Lions are reaping the rewards. Photo: Steve Breazeale

M AT T ROBINSON 2017 STAT S

Games 4

Completions 66

Attempts 117

Completion % 56.4

Yards 1,119

Yards per game 279.7

Touchdowns 10

Interceptions 3

By staying put and not running at the first sign of trouble, Robinson is throwing more often, more accurately and has improved on every statistical passing category from his junior season. He has thrown for 1,119 yards and is averaging 279.7 yards per game, the fi fth-highest mark in Orange County. He is completing 56 percent of his passes and has thrown 10 touchdowns to three interceptions.

Harlow wants Robinson’s completion percentage to improve but said the mark he has now is a byproduct of the Lions taking multiple shots downfield every game.

He has carried the ball just four times for 41 yards in four games.

“I think our offensive line has been better this year so I have more time and there’s not as much pressure coming through,” Robinson, who has been sacked just three times this season, said.

“I can just stay in there and make all the throws.”

Robinson admits he misses scrambling for first downs and making spin moves in the open field but knows he has that ability in his back pocket at the ready.

There’s no doubt he will have to improvise multiple times this year with six tough matchups remaining on the schedule.

Robinson has been dishing out passes to talented receivers like Tyler Shimomura, Tarik Luckett and Munir McClain.

Page 38

All three receivers are averaging at least 67 yards receiving per game and McClain leads the group with five touchdown catches. The Lions’ strong running attack, led by senior Al Fisher, adds another dimension.

“We have a lot more playmakers this year … I have more experience and I know more coverages,” Robinson said. “We’re all on the same page and we’ve got a good balance between the run and the pass.”

Robinson said the team’s first quarter against Bishop Amat on Sept. 8 was a display of just how good the offense can be.

The Lions scored 24 unanswered points and he threw two touchdown passes in the first 12 minutes against a historically strong program. JSerra would eventually win in a shootout, 59-35, and Robinson threw for a season-high 295 yards and five touchdowns.

The JSerra offense will be tested repeatedly as the schedule creeps into October.

A matchup against Los Alamitos (2-1) awaits JSerra on Friday, Sept. 22. The Griffins have allowed just 34 points in three games.

JSerra opens Trinity League play at Cerritos College against Servite on Friday, Oct. 6. Games against powerhouses Mater Dei (ranked No. 1 in California) and St. John Bosco (No. 2) are on the horizon.

Robinson and the Lions will be patiently waiting for them. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com