March 23, 2018

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OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

MARCH 23-APRIL 12, 2018 • VOLUME 16, ISSUE 6

This Is San Juan

From homegrown residents to visitors, the Swallows Day Parade is a defining staple of San Juan Capistrano culture SJC LIVING/PAGE 33

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

The Fiesta Association celebrates Fiesta Grande on March 21 at the Swallow’s Inn as a part of the event series for the Swallows Day Parade on Saturday, March 24. Photo: Emily Rasmussen

South Orange County Residents Feel Let Down by County in FAA Lawsuit Regarding Airplane Noise EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

Preliminary Ruling Finds City Violated Environmental Laws, General Plan EYE ON SJC/PAGE 8

Record-Holding Para Athlete Looks to Raise Awareness for Para Sports SPORTS/PAGE 38

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

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week South Orange County Residents Feel Let Down

by County in FAA Lawsuit Regarding Airplane Noise THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano residents are spearheading a petition to stop airplane noise from John Wayne Airport in South Orange County cities, claiming that a settlement between the city of Newport Beach and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) left southern cities to fend for themselves.

On Jan. 23 a settlement was reached to adjust flight paths from a lawsuit filed in 2016 against the FAA, by the city of Newport Beach, which involved the city of Laguna Beach and the County of Orange.

The settlement agreement included designs to flight paths that would lessen noise impacts for the Newport Beach or Laguna Beach areas, which led to a design of a curved flight path that goes out to the ocean, turns and heads east, then crosses over Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano.

“The county threw us under the airplane,” San Juan Capistrano resident Robert McDonald said. “Laguna Beach got some relief and so did Newport Beach, but the (rest of) South County didn’t.”

McDonald, an 11-year resident of San Juan Capistrano whose home in the hills near Camino Las Ramblas boasts an ocean view, feels frustrated with how the settlement turned out.

McDonald has been collaborating with residents of his city, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo and other nearby cities to create a petition to stop airplane noise over South Orange County. The petition calls to expand noise limits under the new flight path, that planes fly further out into the ocean to gain altitude before turning back to cross land at a minimum of 18,000 ft.

Within a few weeks, the petition’s about 200 signatures away from its 1,000 signature goal to bring it forth to the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

Orange County 5th District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, whose district encompasses the petition’s cities and others, said that she doesn’t believe the other South County cities received additional airplane noise from the lawsuit settlement with the FAA. “The County was a part of the lawsuit as The Capistrano Dispatch March 23-April 12, 2018

well, along with Laguna Beach and Newport Beach,” Bartlett said. “We were all a part of the same lawsuit and we thought we had some really good solutions and compromises with the FAA, but we are still having some issues from time to time and we’ve got to get these things settled out.”

San Juan Capistrano Councilwoman Kerry Ferguson has met with the group forming the petition and shares some of their concerns.

Ferguson said that the city of San Juan Capistrano did keep an eye on the FAA lawsuit involving the County and other cities, but she felt they weren’t efficiently updated to be a part of it.

“The County, Laguna Beach (and Newport Beach) participated in lawsuits regarding this issue and apparently when the County settled, they didn’t take into account the needs of South County,” Ferguson said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Ferguson said she understands the issue is a “tug of war” for the County between John Wayne Airport and residents.

“I have a lot of work to do, we need to build a mini-coalition of our southern cities,” Ferguson, adding that she’ll be reaching out to Dana Point representatives as well as people from her city.

—Emily Rasmussen

the type of use that they seek out at that time for those buildings.

City Council Denies Appeals Against Plaza Banderas Hotel Project

CUSD Votes for Esencia School to Open as K-5 Instead of K-8

THE LATEST: City Council on March 20 unanimously voted to deny an appeal of the design review committee determinations of the Plaza Banderas Hotel project’s final construction plans.

The appeals claimed there were inconsistencies with the 2011 planning commission approved design plans related to architectural control on the Plaza Banderas Hotel project, which is being developed by Bill Griffith’s Mission Commercial Properties. City Council unanimously adopted a resolution to make appropriate findings, deny the appeals and move forward with the design review committee’s determinations.

Some of the appeals claimed changes to the approved conceptual design plans, piecemealed review violations and elimination of certain design elements.

The appeal was represented by attorney Charles Krolikowski, of Save Our Mission SJC, who suggested that some of the buildings thought to be used as commercial, could be deceptively turned into more hotel rooms.

Plaza Banderas Hotel project associate Dan Friess said that when the time comes, they will apply for permits with the city for

THE LATEST: Parents of the Rancho Mission Viejo and Esencia neighborhoods were upset at the Capistrano Unified School District’s (CUSD) vote on March 14 to open Esencia K-8 School this fall as a K-5 instead of a K-8.

Esencia, a new campus at 5 Aprender St., Rancho Mission Viejo that has been in the works for years, will start as a K-5 for the 2018-2019 school year. The plan is to grow into a K-6 for the 2019-2020 school year, adding a grade each year.

CUSD board and staff said that this was the original plan; however, families who bought homes in the area claim they feel misled, due to the school’s official title remaining ‘Esencia K-8’ on their website and signs around the campus that still advertise a K-8 school.

The unanimous vote by the CUSD board to open as a K-5 instead of a K-8 brought outrage to several parents of children who are either going to middle school this fall or are already going to middle school. Some parents said that they wouldn’t have bought homes in the area if they were told Esencia would open as a K-5.

In past CUSD meetings, the school

San Juan Capistrano resident Robert McDonald tracks the planes that go over his home off of Camino Las Ramblas. Photo: Emily Rasmussen

WHAT’S NEXT: Friess said that with the appeal denials, Plaza Banderas Hotel is slated to open in the fall of 2019.—ER

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district found numbers that estimated there would not be enough students to fill a middle school to properly fill a teaching staff.

Other parents at the March 14 meeting voiced their concerns, with one parent threatening a lawsuit.

“It’s about the numbers,” Trustee Gila Jones said.

WHAT’S NEXT: At the meeting, Trustee Patricia Holloway suggested that CUSD should consider putting up a different sign that does not say K-8 on it. —ER

OC Board of Supervisors Votes to Move Homeless From Motels to Services, Shelters Throughout County THE LATEST: Following the decisions rendered by a federal judge during a seldomseen March 17 court hearing, the Orange County Board of Supervisors voted on March 19 to expend $70.5 million for “permanent supportive and shelter options” for the homeless that were removed from the Santa Ana riverbed (SAR) in February.

Decisions related to a civil lawsuit between the County and Orange County Catholic Worker have been dictating the paths to housing and mental health services for the homeless population that was once living on the SAR since at least Feb. 14 when, as part of an agreement, the County would remove the people living on the riverbed into motels and hotels until (Cont. on page 5) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) the County could figure out what to do with them.

The lawsuit alleges Orange County has the funding and resources to provide assistance to its homeless population, but that officials are unwilling to take effective action on the matter.

The housing credits, or “vouchers,” expired on March 19 but not before the Saturday hearing at the Santa Ana Civic Center, as opposed to the Central District courthouse in Los Angeles, where federal Judge David O. Carter denied a motion to stop the evictions of the homeless people from their motels and hotels, but he met the plaintiffs half-way.

In an agreement, the County is to share information with plaintiffs’ attorneys about where individuals are now and what type of shelter they will be referred to. The plaintiff will have 48 hours to assess the appropriateness of referrals. No more than 100 people per day will be checked out of motels and connected to appropriate resources. According to the agreement, the County reserves the option to extend motel stays for select individuals who may need more time to have their cases examined.

The Orange County Board of Supervisors voted on March 19 to instruct the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA) to do the following: 1. Return to the Board on April 17 with recommendations on how to allocate $70.5 million of Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Community Services and Support funding for permanent supportive and shelter options, 2. Direct staff to enter into contract with American Family Housing for a 12-unit unrestricted site that can accommodate couples, 3. Direct staff to develop the three sites for emergency shelters located in Irvine for up to 200 people, at least 100 people in Huntington Beach and 100 people in Laguna Niguel, and 4. Direct staff to return to the board with an operational plan for the three emergency sites.

People who were removed from the SAR will be placed into housing in the order mentioned above, meaning it’s possible if Irvine is sufficient for the remaining population, Huntington Beach and Laguna Niguel may not receive any. However, that is unlikely, considering there were at least 700 people living in the riverbed, and the County is still shoring up numbers of people who need services.

“The County is there when they reach the checkout date,” Nentwig said. “The County is still available to give them transportation to the courtyard and other centers that will be available for services.”

Nentwig said for people who did not qualify for services or did not need them, they will be placed in the overflow shelters located in the three cities. A timeline for these events has not yet been established as the board of supervisors needs to conduct the April 17 meeting.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 23-April 12, 2018

This decision to move the homeless and establish shelters throughout the county has already been met with opposition.

Laguna Niguel Mayor Pro Tem John Mark Jennings protested the County board’s actions while standing on Countyowned land that is within his city’s boundaries. Jennings made the statement in a Facebook video posted March 20.

“Right behind me is Laguna Niguel City Hall and this is where they’re planning on putting the tent encampments, which is right next to the library where the children go to get their books and our families gather, right across from preschools, from elementary schools and from thousands of residents that live here in town,” Jennings said.

Lawsuits to be filed against the county for the actions regarding the homeless population were approved by the City Councils of Laguna Niguel, Irvine and Huntington Beach at meetings on March 20.

WHAT’S NEXT: Nentwig said the shelters would be expanded as needed and the County will explore its options as to where they’ll be placed and discuss their findings at the April 17 meeting.

Where the homeless will be moved to will depend on what land the county already owns enclaved within the three cities. —Eric Heinz

San Juan Hills High School Students Look for Change at National School Walkout THE LATEST: Nearly 1,000 students at San Juan Hills High School (SJHHS) participated in a national school walkout on March 14 to protest gun violence and to honor the 17 victims of the Parkland, Florida school shooting that happened one month ago.

Almost half of the 2,000-plus students at SJHHS walked out of class at 10 a.m. for the demonstration, with many students sporting orange shirts—the color of the guncontrol movement—and some students wearing shirts supporting the National Rifle Association (NRA). The students gathered in the quad area of the San Jan Capistrano high school for the 17-minute demonstration, a minute for each victim.

WHAT’S NEXT: Olivia Fu, SJHHS student and walkout organizer, said they asked students to register and preregister to vote during the walkout. Fu also said students will continue to work together to write representatives, encourage others to vote and work for action to be made. SJHHS now has the most students registered and pre-registered to vote at any high school in Orange County at 610.—ER ••• EDITOR’S NOTE: To read the full versions of these stories, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

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EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Ammonia Leak at Medical Lab on Ortega Highway An ammonia leak on March 16, at Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute, a medical laboratory in San Juan Capistrano on Ortega Highway near Caspers Wilderness Park, prompted an evacuation of up to 200 employees and a response of more than 50 Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) firefighters, including a hazmat team.

OCFA Capt. Stephen Horner said that at 9:53 a.m., OCFA received a call concerning an ammonia leak from a commercial business on the 33000 block of Ortega Highway in San Juan Capistrano. The leak was inside one of the business’ two-story buildings of the complex, and when units arrived, OCFA evacuated the 100 to 200 employees out of the building.

“Firefighters with OCFA and the hazmat team made entry into the building, they were able to find the leak, stop it and clear the building of any other hazards,” Horner said around 1 p.m. “There were no injuries to firefighters or employees there and the building is being turned back over (to the business).”

Scores of Quest Diagnostics employee’s cars lined the sides of Ortega Highway around noon as employees, who were coming into work for the day, waited for the evacuation to be lifted. The employees, who asked to not be named, said they couldn’t remember anything like this happening before. Security guards who prevented traffic from coming into the lab declined to comment.

Quest Diagnostics was not available for comment.

Mayor Visits Ensenada, San Juan Capistrano’s New Sister City San Juan Capistrano Mayor Sergio Farias took a trip south of the border to the city’s newest sibling—Ensenada—for a ceremony with the Mexican city’s representatives.

Farias, who went with his wife, paid on his own dime for the weekend trip on March 10 to the sister city. The mayor said that he was impressed by the hospitality of Ensenada’s representatives and that he looks forward to developing the two cities’ relationships further.

“The thought was, at least when I got involved, it could be something with a real exchange,” Farias said on when the city began the sister-city agreement process.

“We centered around culture, commerce and tourism. Ensenada has tourists and they also have a Mission, so do we.

They’ve done a good job with preserving some of their historic buildings, so we have a lot in common.”

The Capistrano Dispatch March 23-April 12, 2018

TUESDAY, MARCH 27 Cultural Heritage Commission Meeting 4:30 p.m. The Cultural Heritage Commission will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. The city’s Planning Commission will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28

Orange County Fire Authority responds to an ammonia leak on March 16 off of Ortega Highway.

Photo: Courtesy

The visit was more ceremonial than official, since San Juan Capistrano finished legal paperwork declaring the sister-city agreement about one year ago, Farias said. However, Farias was not expecting the ceremony to be as formal as it did. “(Ensenada representatives) expect everyone that they have relationships with to show they are very active with them, they don’t want it to just be paperwork. They want a real relationship,” Farias explained.

“They were very formal, which I wasn’t used to even though my parents are from Mexico.”

Other than the signing ceremony at the Riviera Center for Cultural Arts, representatives including Ensenada’s mayor, Farias and his wife went around the city with locals, including attending a wine tour.

Going forward, Farias said he hopes to introduce Ensenada representatives to more parts of San Juan Capistrano, including his city’s wineries and the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center. Farias believes there is a lot to learn and develop with the new relationship.

“It could be beneficial for all of us,” he said. “The point is to bring commerce to both of our cities and to have it benefit both of us with cultural exchange.”

San Clemente for a DUI hit-and-run.

According to CHP Officer Raymond Reynoso, the suspect caromed off a black Jeep Grand Cherokee just south of Avenida Vista Hermosa on I-5 at about 5 p.m.

As officers descended on him, he exited southbound on Avenida Pico.

Lt. Mike Peters, chief of San Clemente Police Services, said the man’s car apparently broke down and he fled on foot, but a retired Long Beach Police Department officer was waiting for him and apprehended the man as Orange County Sheriff’s Department arrived.

The suspect was taken to Mission Hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries, and Reynoso said CHP plans to file a criminal complaint with the Orange County District Attorney’s office.

The full name of the man had not been released as of March 13. As the man has not yet been booked into Orange County Jail, his name could not be confirmed under the jail’s information system.

Retired Long Beach Officer Nabs Suspected Drunk Driver on Pursuit in San Clemente

Girl Scout Troop 2901, based in San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point, donated 500 packages of Girl Scout cookies to Homefront America for San Juan Capistrano’s adopted 1/11 Marines.

The Girl Scouts delivered the cookies on March 24 for Homefront America to bring the cookies to the troops.

California Highway Patrol (CHP) is expected to file a criminal complaint against a 28-year-old San Juan Capistrano man after he was apprehended on March 12 in

Local Girl Scouts Donate Cookies to Homefront America

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

Page 6

Downtown Farmers Market 3-6 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, APRIL 6 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.

MONDAY, APRIL 9 Youth Advisory Board Meeting 5:30 p.m. The city’s Youth Advisory Board will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

TUESDAY, APRIL 10 Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. The city’s Planning Commission will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Design Review Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. The Design Review Committee will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 13 Next issue of The Dispatch publishes.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Students Take Action for Suicide Awareness Strength Over Silence group at San Juan Hills talks teen suicide, mental illness eneath the upbeat roofs of South Orange County schools, freckled with thousands of smart and talented students, lies a tenacious and unspoken pattern that haunts the minds of youth on a regular basis—suicide.

In a world where academic performance takes precedent and topics such as mental health or suicide get brushed under the rug, students can fall into isolation quite easily, a handful of San Juan Hills High School (SJHHS) students recount.

“There’s such a stigma around the topic (of suicide) and kids really don’t want to talk about their issues, they don’t feel like they have other people to turn to talk about their issues,” Isabelle Peloso, SJHHS sophomore, said.

Peloso, 16, and a handful of other students at SJHHS are trying to break that stigma at local schools through ‘Strength Over Silence,’ a project created by these students to discuss mental health and to spread awareness about suicide.

“Pain ends when the silence stops,” Strength Over Silence member Kiley Espineira said. “Because we feel like when kids speak up about it, or when anyone who’s dealing with it in general, it gets a lot better than just keeping it to themselves.”

In 2015, suicide was the third-leading cause of death for ages 10 to 14 and the second-leading cause of death for ages 15 to 34, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report.

Suicide has become a prominent issue particularly to students in South Orange County. Since 2018, there’s been incidents of teen suicides publicized, including 16-year-old Patrick Turner of Newport Beach and 13-year-old Emma Pangelinan of Mission Viejo.

Wendy Peloso, Isabelle Peloso’s mother, said the Strength Over Silence project is more timely than ever, hence these recent, higher-publicized suicides.

“It’s tragic,” Wendy Peloso said. “And it’s sad to the degree that it’s all preventable—like being able to talk to someone including peers or counselors. I think we need to come together as a community (to solve this issue).”

Of the suicides that influenced the Strength Over Silence group to culminate, the 2016 suicide of 13-year-old James Ransom of Ladera Ranch was a major influence. Ransom went to Ladera Ranch Middle School—a feeder school to SJHHS— and his older sister, Julia Ransom, 16, also goes to SJHHS.

“(The number of teen suicides) has helped our project grow more, for teachers and adults that are in our district to realize that this is a prevalent issue in Orange County,” Espineira said. “Because some don’t believe that (teen suicide) actually is. Those past three deaths were almost a waking point for people.”

The Strength Over Silence group claims that there’s been more recent teen suicides in the area, but that they have been out of the spotlight due to privacy policies.

“It’s a long list,” Peloso said.

The growing list is frustrating to members of Strength Over Silence; prompting them to find ways to help with the problem in their own ways.

“All of us have been impacted by mental illness in some way—either ourselves, a friend or family member—I thought it was very important for us to educate ourselves first on this topic and then to educate our classmates on it,” Espineira, 16, said.

Espineira added that it’s also easier for students to relate to other students.

“We feel that student presentations are more effective than adult-to-student approaches, because we have a different perspective on (suicide) and more insight into what kids are feeling personally other than just statistics and facts,” she said.

So far at presentations, many parents have been receptive to the Strength Over Silence message, the group said. However, there has been some backlash because some parents say that they don’t want suicide discussed with their children at all.

Strength Over Silence member Grace Aitken, 16, added that getting this message to students in high school and middle school is vital, and that it’s an issue that can no longer be ignored.

“It’s an obvious issue that is happening in Orange County and in the nation,” Aitken said. “By ignoring it and ignoring the problem, you’re making it worse. These mental health issues don’t go away if you don’t talk about—it gets worse.”

Strength Over Silence has been reaching out to private schools and local schools within the Capistrano Unified School District to give presentations to students.

“When we reached out to different middle school and high schools—principals, assistant principals and teachers—were in really big support of our project because they felt their school was not getting enough attention on the subject.”

To learn more about their project, visit strengthoversilenceoc.weebly.com.

To read the full version of this article, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com CD

The Capistrano Dispatch March 23–April 12, 2018

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BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

B

EYE ON SJC nation of the Forster Street extension is inconsistent with the city’s general plan,” case documents read.

San Juan Capistrano Municipal Code The city’s form-based code provides for a three-story limit on hotels in the Historic Town Center area and an overall 35-foot height limit.

The hotel proposed a setback so that changes in the hotel’s elevation will comply with the setback requirement, the court did not find a violation of the formbased code.

“The hotel’s proposed dome, however, which exceeds the overall height limit, does violate the form-based code.”

The lot where Hotel Capistrano by Kimpton is bordered by chain-link fence, neighboring Ellie’s Table. Photo: Emily Rasmussen

Judge’s Preliminary Ruling Finds City Violated Environmental Laws, General Plan The judge agreed with the petitioner’s claims of allegations against the city, which will affect the Hotel Capistrano project

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

tentative decision on a lawsuit from a hotel developer looking to overturn the city’s approval of a competing hotel in town was made on March 12.

The Orange County Superior Court’s tentative decision on March 12 granted a petition for writ relief to SPM-Fairfield, LLC’s (SPM) allegations against the city of San Juan Capistrano of violating the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the San Juan Capistrano General Plan and Municipal Code by approving the Hotel Capistrano by Kimpton.

Bill Griffith, local developer and owner of SPM, filed a lawsuit in the Orange County Superior Court on Oct. 4, 2016 over the legality of the city’s Sept. 6, 2016 approval of the Hotel Capistrano project.

Griffith’s suit claims the Hotel Capistrano “violates many provisions of the city’s general plan, other plans and planning policies established by the city, and the city’s municipal code,” making it an “illegal” development that will “have negative impacts on the adjacent, historic Judge Egan House.”

The 102-room, 4-star Kimpton boutique hotel is on property owned by O Properties, Inc., which is resident and Hollywood director Steve Oedekerk’s company. The 3.13-acre property, to be developed by Stratus Development Partners, LCC, is set to be constructed between the Egan House and the Esslinger Building, which are both owned by Griffith. Griffith recently renovated the Egan House, which is now home to Ellie’s Table.

Griffith dropped his plans for his own Inn at the Mission hotel project around the same time the Hotel Capistrano was approved last year, and since then, he has The Capistrano Dispatch March 23–April 12, 2018

revived his plans to build the previously permitted Plaza Banderas at the site adjacent to the Mission. The design of that hotel project is currently going through the city’s review process.

Here’s what the court’s tentative decision on the three actions against the city of San Juan Capistrano found: CEQA Violations On Oct. 6, 2017, Judge Kim Dunning issued a stay during the hearing, which temporarily halts the proceeding. Dunning’s main reason for delaying a trial (both on Aug. 11 and on Oct. 6) was an earlier lawsuit filed by a group known as Save Our Historic Town Center that’s currently in the Court of Appeals. The group alleged that a 2014 proposed project—the Urban Village hotel and villas—was inconsistent with the city’s general plan. That project was intended for the same piece of land that the Hotel Capistrano is set to occupy.

When City Council approved the Urban Village project in 2014, the CEQA document for the project included a mitigated negative declaration (MND), which identified the Forster Street extension as being consistent with the Historic Town Center Master Plan (HTCMP), among other permit and modification approvals. In 2015, City Council repealed the Urban Village project resolution, which included the repeal of the MND. In the midst of multiple legal battles against the city by the Urban Village Development Co., O Properties had already entered into an agreement with Stratus for Hotel Capistrano. The Hotel Capistrano approvals were pegged to the MND prepared in anticipation of Urban Village; the city issued an addendum to the MND and

it did not initiate a new CEQA process, according to the court’s procedural history on the case.

“The MND and its addendum are at the heart of the CEQA challenge. When the San Juan City Council voted on Jan. 20, 2015 to repeal the Urban Village Resolution, it voted to repeal the MND. That purported repeal, however, was subsequently declared void,” the case documents read.

The city of San Juan Capistrano, O Properties and Stratus argue that the city has already determined Hotel Capistrano does not involve any new or significant environmental impacts, compared to Urban Village, so the addendum is sufficient to address environmental requirements.

The court does not agree.

“Hotel Capistrano is a project that must stand on its own. It requires its own environmental assessment to determine whether an MND is appropriate. The failure to engage in this process is a violation of CEQA,” case documents read.

Inconsistencies with San Juan Capistrano General Plan The petitioner—SPM—alleged Hotel Capistrano is inconsistent with the city’s general plan in three specific instances: it eliminates the Forster Street extension, it violates the height and setback restrictions associated with the Judge Egan House, and it allows a hotel where none was planned in the HTCMP. The Forster Street extension through the Hotel Capistrano project site, connecting Camino Capistrano and Del Obispo Street, was included in the adopted HTCMP. “This court agrees with the petitioner’s first contention and concludes the elimi-

Page 8

What’s next The city of San Juan Capistrano is currently reviewing the court’s statement of decision with the city attorney’s office, Assistant City Manager Jacob Green said in an email. The city discussed the case in closed session with the City Council on March 20, he said.

Councilman Derek Reeve commented on the court’s tentative decision on his Facebook page, noting the City Council’s vote on March 6 that passed a resolution to initiate a study on repealing the HTCMP. “Griffith has successfully delayed the construction of the Kimpton through his lawsuit against the city. The judge’s rationale at times were perplexing and even convoluted,” Reeve wrote. “In short, according to the activist decision by the judge, the Kimpton cannot be built because of the (HTCMP). This solidifies my position that the HTCMP must be rescinded ASAP. Fortunately, the Council voted unanimously last week to begin that process.”

The tentative decision by the court to grant a writ of relief directs the counsel for SPM to prepare a statement of decision and proposed judgment within 30 days. The counsel for respondent (city of San Juan Capistrano) and real parties in interest (O Properties and Stratus) may file within 10 days of the March 12 tentative decision with a document specifying controverted issues they request to be included in the statement of decision.

“Moving forward, this ruling and the related Urban Village/Save Our Historic Town Center litigations will serve as a benchmark to fully enforce the general plan, municipal code and form-based code, correct the inconsistencies in the (HTCMP), and require all future projects to comply with the mitigation measures and project design features in the HTC EIR,” Griffith said in a press statement.

At coffee chat on March 16, Oedekerk discussed the hearing and what it means to his project.

“The bigger thing than the hotel is the HTCMP getting resolved,” Oedekerk said, adding that he’s been prepared for this outcome.

Counsel for SPM must serve and submit to the court within 30 days of March 12. Any objections must be filed within 15 days thereafter. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

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EDITORIAL

Real Estate Sales Executive > Jennifer Guy

Group Managing Editor > Rachael Mattice City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Emily Rasmussen

ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith

City Editor, DP Times > Daniel Ritz

Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex

City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz

OPERATIONS

Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

Finance Director > Mike Reed General Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Tim Trent, Victor Carno

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 16, Issue 6. 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 2018. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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The Capistrano Dispatch March 23-April 12, 2018

Container vegetable garden You don’t need a lot a space or money to get started. The best success for a new gardener is container gardening.

Container gardens will help boost your confidence; you will see the fruit of your labor quickly, best of all, you’ll grow a fair amount of food. Be sure to have a water source close by since containers dry out quickly. While it doesn’t have to be expen-

Letters to the Editor NO GOOD DEED SHOULD GO UNNOTICED —Dave Solt, San Juan Capistrano I’d like you to know about a good deed Buy My Bikes owner, Jim Curwood did. Here in San Juan we have a program called Breakthrough that provides “academic opportunities for highly motivated, underserved students.” They bring university students from around the country to our town for the summer to serve as Teaching Fellows.

Last summer, Aiden Anderson, student at Vassar College, went into Buy My Bikes trying to rent a bicycle, as he had no money to buy one. Jim said, “You’re here for Breakthrough?

Great program. Take that used mountain bike over there. No rental. Just remember to bring it back at the end of summer.” Jim, your kindness helped make it a great summer for Aiden.

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.

Page 10

sive, it can be if you don’t watch and water your garden daily.

Success is in the baby steps Begin with a large container with a minimum 24-inch-wide mouth. Set the container on a tabletop or on the ground; close enough to a door or window so you can observe each day. Fill with organic soils and with edible plants; don’t over fill the pot, 1-2 inches below the lip. For a spring garden, most any plant will do. Try selecting letDIRT THERAPY tuces like romaine, kale

By Marrianne and arugula. Tug a little Taylor at the root, space 3-5 inches apart and plant. Add texture with herbs; sages or basil in between lettuce for flavor. In the center, add one tomato plant. Cherry tomatoes are the easiest.

For fun, try a yellow pear tomato. Add a little organic fertilizer around each plant and water well. Use either bamboo poles or cage to support the tomato. Check the

soil daily. Don’t let it dry out. It’s best to water every few days. You’re good to go!

Want to plant more vegetables, add more containers and follow these same steps.

If you have space in your backyard, try a raised bed and add more vegetable varieties. Try growing brussels sprouts; watch how this plant stock grows vertically. Rule of thumb—plant what you will eat and be sure to share with your family and friends.

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 To view Marianne’s full article, go to our website www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

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.

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Welcome to the 2018 Summer Camp & Activities Guide

School’s (Almost) Out for Summer! tart early on planning and pre-registering for your child or teen’s summer camp and activities-filled time off from the Capistrano Unified School District’s schedule.

Local camps offer youngsters a plethora of options to fulfill every interest and hobby, including surfing, science, reading, acting, exploration and much more.

Our annual Summer Camp & Activities Guide— featuring a mix of half-day and full-day activities in Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and surrounding cities— will provide information to help you and your child plan an endless summer of adventure.

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Carter, 14, San Clemente

Carter, a student at Bernice Ayer Middle School, attends a summer camp that is geared more towards education and his foreseen career path in technology.

Carter started going to iD Tech camp at the University of California-Irvine at age 12 and plans to continue going each year.

“It seemed very interesting and it’s the right way to go if I want a career that involves technology,” Carter said. “Technology seems like (a growing field) in the future; we’re going to need more people in technology because that’s where everything’s going.”

With hobbies including reading and video games, Carter said that learning skills at the iD Tech summer camp—including how to code, create software and build computers—were fun for him.

“It shows you different aspects of technology: 3D printing, design and game development,” Carter said, adding that he is comfortable working with all of these technological facets.

Although still unsure about which venue of technology he hopes to grow his career, Carter said that his interest is in design, since going to the summer camp. Also, he added, the camp has created a support system for him, in that other attendees of the iD Tech camp who are passionate about technology like he is, become close and valuable friends.

Caden, Dana Point, Pictured at 10

Seasons in the Sun Local kids learn valuable lessons in summer camp, with some fun

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN

very child has their own unique experience at summer camp with an even wider variety of takeaways from their time at the youth getaways. With local summer camp offerings ranging from technology to horseback riding, students in Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano learned valuable skills that could apply to their college and career paths—not to mention they had some fun along the way. Here are some of their favorite memories.

Caden, 17, Dana Point

When this San Juan Hills High School student started going to YMCA Camp Oakes when he was 10 years old, he was somewhat doubtful of summer camps because he was homesick his first year.

Although the week-long camp of activities including horseback riding and rock climbing were enjoyable, Caden said that he wasn’t used to sharing his space with so many people and at the time, and just wanted to go home.

“The first time I went, it was new for me

—my first time out of the house for more than a couple days, I missed my bed, my own food, being able to go into my room and have my own space,” Caden said. “I had to be around new people every second of the day—I was kind of homesick the first year, but when I got home I couldn’t wait to go back next year.”

Since that first year, Caden went to YMCA Camp Oakes—based in Big Bear— every year for three years.

“It’s always going to be something new to go out and be on your own, but it is so fun,”

Caden said. “You meet new people, try all of these different activities—it’s something different than your house and family.”

In addition to the camp allowing for Caden to try new, interesting activities, he said that the camp also helped him grow a sense of independence and maturity.

“It was a great real-world experience without having your parents there to coach you on everything,” Caden said. “You have older role models who aren’t full-on adults, the counselors really help—you look up to them and they’re not your parent.”

Kate, 15, San Juan Capistrano

After participating in Westwind Sailing camp in Dana Point for four years, San Juan Hills High School student Kate has her sails set on becoming an assistant instructor.

“It’s helped me to try new things, work with groups and learn how to communicate better with other people,” Kate said.

The camp, which typically has groups of three per boat, teaches attendees how to sail. It’s a physically and mentally challenging task for someone who has never set to sea before, Kate said.

“It’s really fun and you learn a lot; it’s a nice skill to have if you enjoy the beach,” she said.

The skill has also helped Kate learn how to adjust to unfamiliar settings and how to not panic in situations that you would need to act fast, she added. For Kate’s foreseen career and college route in the medical field, these mentalities are important to develop, she said. •

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Going Up the Country Stay engaged with these tips for your next family road trip ummers are made for road trips. On-the-road getaways are not only a wallet-friendly means of travel, but also a family-friendly escape that keeps everyone together. Before you jam everyone into the car for fun-filled summer adventures, here are a few tips, games and tricks to make your road trip entertaining and educational.

Fair Game Benefits of enrolling kids in project, goal-based activities

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN

Ask for input from everyone.

Whether your family is heading up the coast to Monterey, cruising to Mammoth Lakes or are loading up for a camping trip, involve your children in the planning process.

Silence Siri or Alexa and put the navigational system away. Instead, buy a paper map and plot your course. Research places to stop and explore along the way—maybe a visit to the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery outside San Simeon is on your trip north.

Get creative with games inside the car.

Exploration isn’t exclusive outside the car.

Load up your car-game arsenal and use driving time for creative, interactive games.

Go through the alphabet. For this game, pick a category such as fruits, cities or sports

teams. Then take turns coming up with items starting with that letter. Play the license plate game. Keep your eyes set on passing cars. Try to find all 50 states. Ever wonder where other cars are going? Pick a car and craft a story of their travels. Let imaginations run wild.

Embark on a listening adventure.

It’s inevitable. At some point in the trip, the miles will seem endless. Help beat the road-trip lull with an audiobook. The miles are guaranteed to fly by. You could opt for a family-friendly classic adventure novel like Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island or Douglas Adams’ science-fiction comedy The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Whatever you choose, enjoy the journey where your family will be transported to far-off lands for a new adventure together. •

rojects engage children and come in a variety of forms, ranging from science fair competitions, entering crafts or photography in local fairs to volunteering for a long-term cause. Whether it’s a friendly competition between peers or collaborating as a team for an ultimate goal, working on projects teaches children and teens how to manage time, be responsible for their work and take constructive criticism.

Long-term benefits of projects can help children build resilience and learn how to set appropriate benchmarks, said Katie Hurley, a child and adolescent psychotherapist and parenting educator in Los Angeles, in a PBS article titled, “How to Help Your Child Set and Reach Goals.”

According to Hurley, working on projects with long-term goals teaches children: • Responsibility: Success or failure depends on what they put into it.

• Time management: Kids learn how to manage their time to meet their goals.

• Confidence: Nothing beats the feeling of meeting your own goal.

• Resilience: Kids learn to cope with the small setbacks that might stand in their way.

• Perseverance: They learn to keep trying and rework their steps until they meet their goals.

There are a myriad of opportunities in Orange County for students to become involved with a goal-based project, whether it’s independent or with a group.

One option to foster team building skills is with the Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano

Valley, which includes education, art and physical programs. An example of a unique program to the Boys and Girls Club is their character and leadership development clubs, such as the Keystone Clubs or Torch Club.

“Helping youth become responsible, caring citizens and acquire skills for participating in the democratic process is the main thrust of these programs,” the Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano Valley website said. “They also develop leadership skills and provide opportunities for planning, decision-making, contributing to (the) club and community and celebrating our national heritage.”

For more technical projects and goals, OC Science—a student-run nonprofit organization that focuses on science and engineering—is an example of a challenging educational program. OC Science is affiliated with the Orange County Science & Engineering fair, but also has more frequent projects for students.

One of the OC Science projects is Problems of the Week, which engages elementary and middle school students to challenge themselves with sciences such as biology, chemistry, physics and earth sciences.

“As opposed to traditional competitions, OC Science allows students one week to think out their answers and come up with creative solutions to free response questions,” the OC Science website said.

With the program running from October to March, students who perform well and show a deep understanding of the topics are invited to compete in the Science Bowl, which takes place in April.

Extracurricular projects and goals aren’t limited to competitions. With volunteer opportunities that can range from working with faith-based groups or helping the environment, there’s interests for any field your child may be interested in.

Plus, some volunteer groups allow adults to join, so parents can use this as an opportunity to bond with their children while doing a fun and productive activity. OneOC. com is a resource that families can use to find volunteer organizations, with some that will satisfy service-learning hours.

Regardless of the resume-building skills that children or teens will learn while being involved in goal-based projects, the personal knowledge acquired will prepare them for an array of challenges both inside and outside of the classroom. •

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Five

Health Benefits of Enrolling Your Child in Camp

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN

hether it’s sailing a boat for the first time or learning a new technical skill, summer camps push the intellectual boundaries of what children are used to on a daily basis.

Camps give your child an opportunity to grow in a variety of ways, whether it’s a chance to develop a new skill or to have some adventurous fun.

Here’s five health and psychological benefits of enrolling your child in a camp.

1.Sense of independence

If your child has attended camps before, you may have noticed changes in their selfconfidence. Camps can help children grow by allowing them the opportunity to try experiences on their own, growing their sense of independence and overall maturity.

“It is in the crucible of this community that children gain self-esteem with humility, overcome their inflated sense of self, and develop a lifelong sense of grace and wonder,” Bob Ditter, licensed clinical social worker specializing in child and adolescent treatment, said to the American Camp Association (ACA) in their article “Benefits of Camp: Psychological Aspects.”

2. Making friends

This may seem like an obvious reason, but it’s arguably one of the most important.

Building relationships with peers from a variety of backgrounds can help grow your child’s community of friends and mentors.

“Each summer at camp, a unique setting is created, a community is constructed that allows participants to get in touch with a sense of life that is larger than one’s self,” Bruce Muchnick, licensed psychologist who works extensively with day and resident camps, said to the ACA. “The camp community seeks to satisfy children’s basic need for connectedness, affiliation, belonging,

safety, and feelings of acceptance and appreciation.”

3. Change of scenery

Even with school field trips or family vacations, a child’s sense of the world might be limited to their neighborhood or city.

Breaking out of the norm can enlighten your child’s grasp on what else is out there.

“It gets them away from a neighborhood or situation that may exist in their neighborhoods that isn’t healthy,” former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell and former chair of America’s Promise - The Alliance for Youth, said to the ACA. “It teaches them how to get along with others—both young people as well as adults. To give our children a safe place to learn and grow–camp does that.”

4. Taking risks

This may be your child’s first time trying something exciting outside of school or home. Regardless of its size, taking risks is an important lesson for children to learn.

“What makes camp a special community is its focus on celebrating effort. In this less pressured atmosphere, children learn more readily what positive things to say and do when they make mistakes and face challenges,” Michael Brandwein, noted speaker and consultant to the camp profession, said to the ACA.

5. Different perspectives

Camps can serve as a catalyst for understanding people’s differences. Often, children will be obliged to hear other ideas—whether they agree with them or not—which is a healthy start for having an open mind to other people’s thoughts and feelings.

“Campers are urged to include, not exclude, others,” Brandwein said to the ACA. “They are praised for choosing new partners and not always the same ones. They are encouraged to respect the differences between people.” •

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Local Camps

Capistrano Acting Academy

Make it a memorable summer

949 Volleyball

In just six years, 949 Volleyball Club has earned eight Junior Olympic Volleyball medals and has four National Championships of their own. At 949 Volleyball Club, our goal is to teach beginning players the game’s fundamentals and to prepare juniors and seniors for NCAA-level competition. The club promotes sportsmanlike behavior both on and off the court. With each player, we instill the values of integrity, dedication and hard work all while having fun and learning to play the game. Space is limited. Be sure to register early. 32701 Calle Perfecto, San Juan Capistrano. 949.374.2890. www.949vb.com. Email Justin@949vb.co for more information.

Acting Academy

Summer Performing Arts Camps serving ages 4 - 13. Campers are guided through a full theater immersion experience via four daily classes—music, acting, dance and fusion. The culminating event will be a Friday performance on one of our three main stage theaters! Children can participate for one week, the entire summer or anywhere in between. It’s time to watch your star shine at Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente; CommunityRoots Academy PAC, 29292 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel; OC Music & Dance, 17620 Fitch Avenue #160, Irvine 92614, 949.427.0072, www.actingacademyforkids.com.

Excitement and adventure await your kids with loads of Summer Fun! Camp begins June 25 and encompasses six separate weeks, each with a different theme. We accept ages 6 - 16. Each play is an original script with tons of laughter – for both the kids and the audience. Along with enjoying theatre games, these amazing kids learn their lines, blocking, timing and are costumed and made up to perform by Friday at 2 p.m. They offer sibling and return student discounts too. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www. capistranoactingacademy.org.

Basics of Skateboarding

Basics of Skateboarding is a hands-on camp designed to bring kids together with their community. At this camp, children develop and enhance their skateboarding skills while creating new friendships with other camp participants. Our camps are here to guide participants with little to no skateboarding experience through the basics by providing structured lessons.

We also offer intermediate and advanced camps. Camps are open to young skateboarders ages 3-12. 949.922.9922. www.basicsofskateboarding.com.

Bella Collina Kid’s Summer Golf Camp

Evidence suggests regular physical activity may help improve a student’s academic performance. This summer, challenge your child by introducing them to the exciting world of golf. Each weeklong session includes instruction by experienced, nurturing golf professionals. Campers enjoy confidencebuilding activities, on-course play and fun games. Golf achievement medals are awarded at the end of each week. Clubs, lunch and snacks are provided. Runs from June 18 to August 10. Cost is $289 per week ($229 for members). 200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. 949.498.3771. www.bellacollinasanclemente.com.

Johnson Academy

Did you know that one out of every five children struggle in reading? Children who receive intervention before third grade have a 90 percent chance of increasing their reading skills to meet their intellectual abilities. Due to the high demands of literacy, reading is more important than ever. At the Johnson Academy, located in San Juan Capistrano, they offer evidence-based reading and math intervention programs to improve phonemic awareness, comprehension, vocabulary knowledge and cognitive abilities. If your child struggles with keeping up in school, please contact the academy to find out more information. 31831 Camino Capistrano, Franciscan Promenade, Suite 100, San Juan Capistrano. 949.487.5251 scheduling@ocsllcinc.com.

City of San Clemente

Adventures are now open with early bird savings lasting until April 14. The city of San Clemente is offering more than 300 courses and camps this summer. Explore a variety of programs from sports to performing arts, cooking and more. Visit Camp Palooza at the Vista Hermosa Sports Park on Saturday, March 31, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., to meet instructors, earn free giveaways, discover camp discounts and enjoy recreational swimming. For information and registration visit www.san-clemente.org/recreation or call 949.429.8797.

JP’s Surf Camp

Come join the fun at JP’s Surf Camp, San Clemente Pier. Our summer camp, for ages 6 through adult, runs June 11-August 3 daily from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. or 12:30-3:30 p.m. sessions. Small group instruction is provided for beginner through intermediate surfers and surfboards and wetsuits are included. Full week sessions are $275 and single day sessions are $65/day. Early Bird Special pricing runs through April 14. 647 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente. 949.547.2088. www.jpssurfcamp.com.

KG Beach Camps Endless Summer Surf Camp

Learn to surf at San Clemente’s premier surf camp, where dreams have come true since 1992. Whether you have never surfed or if you want to take your surfing to the next level, we have surf instruction and coaching for you. We have day and overnight surf camps as well as private and group lessons for beginning, intermediate and advanced surfers. We also offer surf and turf camps at Talega Golf Course with PGA Teacher of the Year Randy Chang. 949.498.7862. www.endlesssummersurfcamp.com.

Come down to the Dana Point Harbor for a week of fun! There are activities from stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking and tide pool walks to games, crafts and much more. Join us for an adventure on a 60-foot catamaran while we look for whales and explore the open ocean. The little ones will join us for a different adventure every day; crab hunting, treasure hunts, water games and sand castles will fill their days at camp. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point.

949.842.5211. www.kgbeachcamps.com.

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

More Local Camps

The Ecology Center

Mathnasium

We help kids catch up, keep up and get ahead in math. Mathnasium’s goal is to significantly increase your child’s math skills, understanding of math concepts, and overall school performance, while building confidence and forging a positive attitude toward the subject. Children don’t hate math. They hate being confused and intimidated by math. With understanding comes passion.

And with passion comes growth—a treasure is unlocked. 1001 Avenida Pico, Suite E, San Clemente, 949.481.6284; 22 Monarch Bay Plaza, Dana Point, 949.240.6284; www.mathnasium.com.

St. Anne SCHOOL

The Summer Knights Day Camp is the ideal combination of fun and education for kids 2 years old through middle school. Camp days are filled with a balance of light academics, arts and crafts, water play, weekly themes, special guests, cooking and field trips with a flexible schedule for working parents.

The eight-week-long camps begin June 11 with full-day, half-day, and extended hour options. Visit www.st-anne.org/summercamp for more information and to register.

32451 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel, 949.276.6711.

Waterbabies Swim School

We are known for our warm 92-degree salt pool, small classes and teaching every child to be safe and happy around water.

Swim lessons reduce the risk of drowning!

Swimming builds self-esteem! Swimming enhances physical, mental and emotional development! Swimming is an activity that lasts a lifetime! A trusted choice for over 25 years. 142 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.488.2512, www.waterbabiesswimschool.com.

Westwind Sailing

Welcome aboard! Westwind Sailing opened in 1987 to provide public access boating education in our community. Summer fun at Westwind includes sailing and SUP camps and classes for all ages and skill levels. We are a sanctioned US Sailing Community Sailing Center and our instructors hold US Sailing, USCG, ASI, ACA, CPR and first aid certifications. Our programs meet at the OC Sailing & Events Center, located in the Harbor at 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point.

949.492.3035. www.westwindsailing.com.

YMCA of Orange County St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Be inspired, explore interests and have fun at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School this summer. Summer camps are designed and taught by St. Margaret’s renowned faculty on the beautiful 22-acre campus, in dynamic, technology-rich learning environments.

STEM, Performing and Visual Arts, Athletics and Exploration camps available weekly for students Preschool through Grade 12! Registration open now, for more information, visit www.smes.org/summer. 31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.0108.

Discover the adventure of a lifetime! The YMCA of Orange County is proud to offer several amazing camps where any and every child can build confidence and make new friends in a safe and nurturing environment.

Summer Day Camps are available during the school break and are offered at more than 40 schools across Orange County. Specialty Camps at our Health & Fitness Centers offer sports, arts, science fun and more on a weekly basis. For the ultimate summer experience, youth 5-17 are encouraged to join us for Camp E.L.K.’s summer sleepaway camp in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Learn more at www.ymcaoc.org/camps.

13821 Newport Ave., Suite 200, Tustin.

714.549.9622. www.ymcaoc.org.

Photo: Courtesy

Giving Back ocal nonprofits offer volunteering opportunities for youth

s the bell rings and finals are completed, students begin to look forward and think of their summer plans. Amid beach time, summer camps and visiting with friends, volunteering at a local nonprofit organization in South Orange County is a rewarding way to dedicate spare time. Students won’t have to look far in order to find a local organization in need of an extra hand this summer. Here are a few choices.

Family Assistance Ministries

Community Outreach Alliance www.communityoutreachalliance.com

Community Outreach Alliance (COA) focuses on equipping students with the necessary tools to make smart decisions and act as community role models, staying free from drugs and alcohol. Give back while also having fun, as COA empowers kids to lead Youth Alliance clubs and activities that include videogame events, fishing trips, comedy nights and more. COA is more than simply volunteering, it is a lifestyle open to all ages.

The Ecology Center

www.family-assistance.org

www.theecologycenter.org

Headquartered in San Clemente, Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) is a faith-based nonprofit organization with one mission: assisting those in need in Orange County.

Whether it be with food, shelter or counseling, FAM casts such a wide net of help that there is an assortment of volunteer opportunities; anything from helping organize a food drive, to clerical duties, to tutoring a child.

Reach out to the organization for upcoming fundraisers and event opportunities.

A wealth of knowledge, The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano is a one-stop shop for all information regarding the preservation of our planet. The Water Effect is a program ran by local student ambassadors to further educate schools and communities on simple tips to help conserve water, while challenging locals to use reusable water bottles. The Ecology Center runs eco-friendly workshops throughout the summer to give local kids tools to help the environment. •

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

DIY Camp

Try these affordable, at-home activities this summer ooking back at your own childhood, some of the best summer memories are those that were spent at home or in the backyard. With heavy travel and activity schedules for both parents and kids, it’s refreshing (and financially sound) to spend time in the comfort of one’s home. That doesn’t mean it has to be all work and no play. Adventures for your kids can still be found with a few household items, a jump rope or basketball and craft supplies.

Get Crafty Stop by a local arts supplies store and pick up construction paper, markers and crayons.

Encouraging kids to explore their creative side by making decorations for their room, mimicking the solar system or even making cards for local military members currently deployed is an easy and affordable way to bring out their artistic side.

Up-Cycle Art Take crafting a step further and turn cardboard boxes into space ships and milk jugs, and cartons into space packs or use recycled plastic lids to create a solar system.

Kids can take a spin around the world in their rocket ship or sail over the seas with a jetpack then draw images of what they saw on their journey.

Play Around Physical exercise like playing tag, going for a hike, skateboarding or beach volleyball are simple and free forms of fun.

According to the Power of Moms website, including daily rewards after chores or must-do lists is another stimulating and healthy way to keep children busy throughout the summer months.

T U R N T H E PAG E F O R O U R

5-Day Activity Outline!

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

5-Day Activity Outline Making your own summer camp and activities this summer for your kids is guaranteed to be both affordable and memorable!

1

2

3

4

5

Make-it Monday

Trip Tuesday

Wet Wednesday

Think Thursday

Friend Friday

Whether it’s learning how to make a few treats for the family barbecue or Fourth of July party, or building a fort out of old cardboard boxes and leftover firewood, children can explore this day of the week with inventions and innovation.

Grab bikes from the garage and ride along the San Clemente Beach Trail, visit the Blas Aguilar Adobe in San Juan Capistrano or throw Frisbees in Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point. Trips do not have to be four-hour drives through heavy Southern California traffic.

Cool off from the hot weather with the kids and visit the Ole Hanson’s Beach Club pool or one of the countless Pacific beach entrances.

Ever wonder how laffy taffy is made at the county fair?

What about the ecosystem of our local waters?

Compile your own fun facts for kids, pick up a new book or take them to a museum to get them thinking about different ideas.

Socializing with peers is an integral part of healthy development and happiness. Take turns with other parents so children and teens can surf with friends, roast marshmallows at a beach bonfire or head to Ralphs Skate Park.

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

Monday | 02 KOI FISH FEEDING 12:45 p.m. Everyday visitors are welcome to help Mission San Juan Capistrano feed their koi fish in both courtyards. Fish food is free for Mission Preservation Society members and $1 for non-members.

26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

COUNTRY DANCING AND ALL DAY HAPPY HOUR 7 p.m.-Midnight. Stop by the Swallow’s Inn for country dancing with DJ Patrick and a happy hour that lasts all day. Enjoy a steak dinner for $13 when you are finished with the dance floor. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Saturday | 07 EDITOR’S PICK The 2017 Swallows Day Parade. Photo: File

SATURDAY, MARCH 24: 60TH ANNUAL SWALLOWS DAY PARADE & MERCADO STREET FAIRE 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Presented by the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association, the Swallows Day Parade is the grand finale of the Fiesta de las Golondrinas and one of the largest non-motorized parades in the country. The parade begins promptly at 11 a.m. rain or shine. During the parade and afterward, the Mercado Street Faire will take place from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The Mercado Street Faire features an array of food and entertainment vendors at the Historic Town Center Park (on El Camino Real, just off Ortega Highway). Ortega Highway and El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1976. www.swallowsparade.com.

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

Friday | 23 HOOS’GOW DAY 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Hoos’Gow Day is an annual tradition that brings a taste of the wild west back to downtown San Juan Capistrano. The “sheriff” and the “deputies” of the Fiesta Association are dressed in their traditional black and white Western garb while they roam the town in search of city slickers. If you’re not wearing western clothing, the deputies just might “arrest” you and throw you in the Hoos’Gow, leaving you no choice but to make “bail” by purchasing a Fiesta Association souvenir.

For more information, call 949.493.1976 or visit www.swallowsparade.com.

FROG JUMPING CONTEST 4 p.m. The Fiesta Association’s fourth annual frog jumping contest will include music and prizes at the Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. www.swallowsparade.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 23-April 12, 2018

Monday | 26

Park. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

LULULEMON ATHETICA PRESESNTS: MINDFUL GATHERING 6-9 p.m. Lululemon Mission Viejo is hosting a mindful evening spreading awareness about traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI can often go unseen, and this gathering will help community members understand more about this very important topic. Key speakers for the evening will include Kevin and Adam Pearce, founders of Love Your Brain Foundation, Lululemon ambassador Charmaine Shetler and a meditation led by Lululemon ambassador Maggie Gelineau. Admission is a $50 donation to Love Your Brain.

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

Saturday | 31

Thursday | 29 GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join volunteers, students and teachers at Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens to care for and maintain native plants and butterflies. No experience is necessary (they’ll teach you), but you should bring gloves and clippers. No class if it rains. Admission is free. Los Rios

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA 10 a.m.-2 p.m. South Shore Church in San Juan Capistrano is hosting their annual Easter Eggstravaganza on the day before Easter Sunday. This free event is complete with food, drinks, an egg hunt and plenty of activities for kids. 32032 Del Obispo St., San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.4991. www.southshores.org.

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Live music at the Swallow’s Inn. Burgers and wings from Lisa’s Kitchen also are available. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Sunday | 01 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 Hwy, San Juan Capistrano. 949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

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SOUND BLISS-MEDITATION AND SOUND EXPERIENCE 7 p.m. Join Sukhmani (Nicole) Fagone as she guides you through a meditation and sound healing experience. Pamper yourself in guided meditation through sonic vibrations and relaxation. Classes are $20 and a second class will begin at 9:30 p.m.

34207 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point.

855.933.4848. www.mindbodywc.com.

Wednesday | 11 MIXOLOGY UNIVERSITY 7 p.m. Every Wednesday, Waterman’s Harbor bartenders and mixology experts teach guests how to make the restaurant’s cocktails. Guests will have the opportunity to make and taste three cocktails.

Event is $25. Waterman’s Harbor. 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

Thursday | 12 TABLE TENNIS FOR SENIORS 10 a.m.-1 p.m. All seniors 55 or older are welcome to join the Table Tennis Club at the Shorecliff Terrace Mobile Home Park.

Entry is free. 3000 Calle Nuevo, San Clemente. 949.481.2275. jnl5555@yahoo.com.

SESSIONS AT STILLWATER 7 p.m. Listen to live music when artists from around the world perform together.

StillWater Spirits & Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.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.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

At the Movies: Vikander is the ‘Most Memorable’ in New Generation ‘Tomb Raider’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

nly two years after taking “Best Supporting Actress” at the Academy Awards for The Danish Girl, Alicia Vikander surprisingly followed up her success with signing on to be the next live-action face of the iconic video game character Lara Croft. It’s been over a decade since Angelina Jolie originally portrayed the character on film in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) and The Cradle of Life (2003). The first two films were considered mediocre despite the decent casting, but what about the new film—simply called Tomb Raider—with Vikander?

In London, England, heiress Lara Croft (Vikander) lives modestly as a delivery server and boxes at the local gym. Seven years after her father (Dominic West) disappears, she’s still hoping that he is alive.

When Lara discovers that her dad was in the middle of discovering a mystical curse

Photo: Courtesy

on an ancient Japanese island, she decides to pick up where he left off with the help of drunk fisherman Lu Ren (Daniel Wu).

MGM’s Tomb Raider is possibly the best video game adapted for film to date.

That said, the standards in the genre of video-game movies are so low, it’s not saying much. Like most decent action films, the weakest link is the script, which has some hokey character development. The direction is interesting because it tries to distinguish itself as a film while alluding to its video-game roots with the action sequences. But by far the most memorable aspect of Tomb Raider is Vikander herself, who proves she can lead a blockbuster just as much as a drama. CD

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Fiesta Association President Jim Taylor (left) and some of the Fiesta Association board at the El Presidente Ball on March 17. Photo: Emily Rasmussen

This is San Juan

San Juan Capistrano gears up for one of its most beloved events of the year

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he swallows have made it just in time.

San Juan Capistrano’s favorite birds are in town for the Swallows Day Parade—the biggest celebration of the year for the city—for a day of entertainment, food and history. The Fiesta Association, the volunteer-based organizers for the parade, have been ramping up the city in the past weeks with events including the El Presidente Ball, Fiesta Grande and Hoos’Gow Day in preparation for the big day.

On Saturday, March 24, the Mercado Street Faire kicks off the day at 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., with the parade from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Fiesta Association President Jim Taylor told the Dispatch what parade-goers can expect for this year’s festivities: The Capistrano Dispatch March 23–April 12, 2018

The Capistrano Dispatch: What can San Juan look forward to at this year’s Swallows Day Parade?

Jim Taylor: The city can look forward to a huge influx of visitors, anywhere between 35,000 to 45,000 attend. Tourists come down to watch the parade, see the Mercado and stick around downtown.

The parade is going to be spectacular with well over 300 horses, 26 horsedrawn floats, 11 marching bands and around 3,000 people marching in the parade.

How has the parade grown over the past 60 years?

It’s attracting entries from far outside our area. We have a lot of horse groups this year who haven’t been in the parade before. We have equestrian units from all over and bands from as far as Arizona at times, just to be a part of this.

This being the 60th anniversary, we tried to get only the best in the parade this year. We’re trying to hang onto the San Juan traditions—modernization is hitting everyone across the board—and to maintain our position as an equestrian town. I think the parade does represent a huge part of that, a huge step in history, which is one of the reasons we keep it non-motorized. We’ve had people ask to bring hot-rods, but we say no unless it’s being pulled by a Clydesdale.

No Shots Will Be Fired at Swallows Day Parade, Except One The Fiesta Association announced on March 20 that there will be no shots fired from replica weapons at this year’s Swallows Day Parade, with the exception of a blank shot at the start of the parade by the parade chair.

Fiesta Association President Jim Taylor said the decision was made in light of recent shootings, including most recently a shooting at a Maryland high school on March 20 and the October Las Vegas shooting, in

which a few San Juan Capistrano residents are survivors.

“We don’t take any political positions, the Fiesta Association is completely non-political,” Taylor said. “We don’t take a position on any of the issues, but with that said, with a heightened community sense of worry over the situation and the school shootings, we don’t want to add to that.”

To read the full story, go to our website at www.thecapistranodispatch.

What’s your best piece of advice to someone who hasn’t been to the parade before?

Get there early to find parking or take the train. We’ve got people coming from San Clemente taking the train, it’s just one stop, or take Uber or Lyft. Find a nice spot to watch the parade and head over to the Mercado. There will be more than 100 vendors and about 25 food vendors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

pearance in the parade, but I can definitely confirm with my own eyes that they have returned. Also, I’m hoping some of the kids make an appearance, we generally do have some kids in the parade dressed as swallows.

Will we see any swallows at the parade?

I saw the swallows (on March 19) on St. Joseph’s Day at the Mission. It was the most opportune time, they rang the bells and the swallows came out. They also had a swallows expert who confirmed the swallows have returned. They’ve been using the Mission to nest so they’re definitely there and I hope they make a definitive apPage 33

What should folks keep an eye out for at this year’s parade?

This entire parade is geared toward pure entertainment—color, entertainment and character. The horse groups are amazing, the bands are amazing and we have military presence so it’s patriotic. We have two special guests, Leo Chade, 87, a Korean War vet, and Sidney Walton, who just turned 99, is a WWII vet. Also, the Mercado is going to be a lot of fun, we’ll have lots of kid activities and there’s a lot of things to do and eat in downtown. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

Do Widowers Feel the Same about Single Women as They Did in 2000?

L

ast week while doing spring cleaning in my office, I came across a letter in my senior dating files that had been postmarked in Los Alamitos and dated Dec. 22, 2000.

At that time, I was a columnist for the Orange County Register, writing a column called “Single Again.” The letter was written by a widower, age 75, named Lawrence.

He wrote: “I lost my wife just over a year ago after 49 years of a happy marriage. In your column, one lady you quoted complained that men are focused on their dead wives. Of course, we can be. After 49 years, she was my soulmate, sweetheart, friend, lover and an Earth angel. A kind, wonderful, compassionate soul whom I miss very much.

“She told me before ON LIFE AND she passed away not to LOVE AFTER 50 mope and grieve over her

By Tom Blake (easier said than done).

She also told me to find a nice, compatible lady and maybe remarry to enjoy my last years and to not feel guilty about it.

“In the past months, I’ve met many ladies at senior centers, but all the ones I’ve been attracted to are married. The unattached ones seem to have chips on their shoulders or other emotional problems.

“Talking with other men, I found the men complain that there are not too many good, unattached ladies out there, that they either smoke, drink, lie a lot, a few are on drugs, and I have come to the conclusion that the only way to go is to find (if I can, and it’s not easy) a compatible lady who lost a good hubby after a

happy marriage, and is looking for a good reliable man.

“Are there any such ladies out there?”

I wondered what happened to Lawrence. The letter listed his address and phone number. I entered that information online and the results indicated he was still at the same location, same phone number and is now 92. I called the number.

A woman answered the phone. It could have been his daughter. I explained who I was, that I had a letter he had written, and asked if Lawrence was still doing okay and if he had met a compatible woman.

She said, “Lawrence never remarried. Do you want to talk to him?”

Lawrence got on the phone. He explained he couldn’t hear very well so I tried to talk loud and slowly. There was static on the line, perhaps caused by his hearing aid. He asked if I could write him a letter instead, which I did. Mailed it the same day.

I asked my weekly eNewsletter readers if widowers feel the same in 2018 as Lawrence did in 2000?

Three women shared: India said, “I disagree that only widows who had a happy marriage are the only way for him to go. Some of us who have seen the good, bad and ugly have never been happily married. We do not smoke, drink or lie a lot, have never been on drugs and do not have chips on our shoulders.”

Inez stated, “He was comparing each woman he met to the idealized memory of the woman he lost. I’d like to know if he simply gave up or continued to open his mind and heart to a new experience with a new person.”

Drive, San Juan Capistrano in March, 1958.

Every issue, The Capistrano Dispatch will publish a historical photo. Online, The Capistrano Dispatch will create a gallery of the month’s photos. To submit your historical photo for consideration, provide information about the photo along with your name, date, location and a small description to erasmussen@picketfencemedia.com.

Mary Lou wrote, “Lawrence was hurting badly at the loss of his wife of 49 years.

His heart was broken, and he missed her terribly. So, of course he was drawn to the ‘taken’ ladies because they were safer.

What he really wanted was his wife back.

I hope Lawrence writes you back. I would love to know how his journey went.”

I’m guessing in 2018 things are about the same for widowers. I’ve not heard back from Lawrence. I will keep you posted.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who

has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites www.findingloveafter50.com; www.vicsta.com and www. travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@gmail. com. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times 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 SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

BY MYLES MELLOR

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

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

The Capistrano Dispatch March 23-April 12, 2018

FROM THE ARCHIVES Pictured is San Juan Creek at Ganado

Sudoku

Pet of the Week: Kurt ne-year-old Kurt is a poodle mix who just loves a good snuggle.

His favorite thing in the world is a proper belly rub. Kurt would do best in a home with adults who can lavish attention upon him. If you would like to know more about Kurt, call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. CD

Photo: Courtesy of Orange County Archives

Kurt. Photo: Courtesy

Page 34

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Pick of the Irish San Juan Hills junior selected to Ireland’s junior national baseball team to compete in European Championship this summer

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

P

lenty of Americans, of Irish heritage or otherwise, celebrate the culture of the green isle once a year on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day. For San Juan Hills junior Liam O’Connor, his Irish heritage isn’t a once-ayear affair.

“For me, it’s just growing up,” O’Connor said. “My dad would always put on Irish music and get my sisters involved with Irish dancing. Being able to play a bigger role in that is kind of big for me.”

O’Connor’s bigger role comes in a way that might seem unconventional when associating with Ireland as the Dana Point resident has been selected to the Irish junior national baseball team.

O’Connor and a group of Americans with parents or grandparents with Irish citizenship and a handful of players from Ireland will compete in the 2018 European 18U Junior Division Championship in Grosseto, Italy from July 9-15.

“Being able to represent Ireland and with both my dad’s parents having passed away,” O’Connor said, “it was just a way to stay connected with your roots.”

O’Connor’s grandfather hailed from a southwestern coastal town of under 2,000 people, Dingle, and his grandmother came from western County Limerick in the town of Newcastle West.

Liam’s father, Brendan, is also a full Irish citizen, and Liam had an Irish passport well before needing one for selection to the team. While O’Connor would be labelled as Irish-American and many would see the composition of the roster and claim it’s not really a team from Ireland, he doesn’t see that line.

“Being from the United States, people try to separate it and say you’re not really Irish,” O’Connor said. “We have the documented papers and everything like that. We have the same criteria as anyone that was born there. Just being able to represent that from my standpoint, half of my life is around there.”

It’s that idea of embracing their roots The Capistrano Dispatch March 23–April 12, 2018

San Juan Hills junior and Dana Point resident Liam O’Connor has been selected to Ireland’s junior national baseball team and will compete at the 2018 European championships in July in Italy. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

“

The goal is to get a bunch of American players of Irish decent and use baseball as a common thread to celebrate their heritage. Competing for something other than the run of the mill type tournament gives it a higher level of importance.

—Bill Sullivan, Team Ireland Coach

”

that Ireland coach Bill Sullivan sees as key to making this team successful. Sullivan is currently the senior associate director of athletics for Mercy College in New York, which sits 15 miles north of New York City, and was the school’s baseball coach for 15 seasons.

“We’re really together for a short period of time. We’re going to be limited on the amount of practice,” Sullivan said. “The goal is to get a bunch of American players of Irish decent and use baseball as a common thread to celebrate their heritage.

Competing for something other than the run of the mill type tournament gives it a higher level of importance.”

Sullivan likes what he’s seen of O’Connor through video as a dual-purpose type of player that can be capable of great things come tournament time.

Sullivan said this team isn’t just playing for this season but also for subsequent Irish baseball teams. He is trying to help

push the national program forward as well as pushing all the players on the current roster.

“We’re looking for them to have a great baseball experience,” Sullivan said. “Using the European Championship as a platform, these players have the want and willingness to perform. We’re kind of all in.”

Ireland qualified for the European Championship by winning one of two qualifying tournaments beating Belgium, Switzerland, Poland and Russia by a combined score of 65-17. Ireland, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Czech Republic, France, Spain, Lithuania, Great Britain and Ukraine make up the 10-team continental competition.

That group of teams is one of the things that excites O’Connor about the tournament.

“I just want to play baseball with those other European teams,” O’Connor said. “I know in the United States it’s very com-

Page 36

petitive. I just want to see how it is over in Europe. There it’s more soccer, and I want to see how the competition levels stack up and just play baseball.”

O’Connor has actually been to Ireland once three years ago. He said he saw a lot of soccer, Gaelic football and rugby while he was there, and the aims of Baseball Ireland appealed to a kid that’s grown up with baseball and Irish influences.

“There wasn’t as much baseball there,” O’Connor said, “but they (Baseball Ireland) had told us that they wanted to push more baseball culture and get Ireland involved. It was an opportunity to bring more culture. It was exciting to go and travel around and play all these teams you wouldn’t normally play.”

Another thing that stuck out on his initial trip was the people of Ireland, the people he shares a common heritage with and will be representing with the Trinity College harp on his green hat and the green, white and orange Irish tricolor flag on the sleeve of his green jersey.

“Just good people in general,” O’Connor said. “About the culture, it’s the music and dance. It’s just so upbeat and gets in your soul and makes you feel good.”

And if anything, Liam O’Connor, as a good Irish lad, can feel good in that uniform flowing with his favorite color.

“Green is my favorite color,” O’Connor said. “Big fan of that.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

FOR LEASE OCEAN VIEW APARTMENT FOR LEASE Unfurnished Fully Remodeled 1 Bedroom/1 Bath. Living/Dining Great Room. Gourmet Kitchen w/top of the line New Appliances Steps to Del Mar and short walk to the Pier/ beach. $2,400 per/month. 949-622-0200 or rosemary@bahalaw.com.

Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

FOR SALE CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too!

Mike, Lantern Bay Carpets 949-240-1545.

GARAGE SALES SATURDAYS, 10AM TO 1PM AND SUNDAYS 9AM TO 12 THROUGH MARCH. Everything must go. Chairs, tables, household items, clothes, jewelry, tools, patio furniture. Also open during week. 34202 Camino Capistrano, Capistrano Beach.

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

HELP WANTED

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

WE ARE SEEKING CAREGIVERS IN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES. Home Instead Senior Care provides a variety of non-medical services that allow seniors to remain in their homes and meet the challenges of aging with dignity, care and compassion.

Variety of shift options available immediately.

Competitive pay and benefits. https://homeinstead.com/301

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

DANA POINT MARINA INN -NOW HIRING: Front desk clerks, Housekeeping, Breakfast room, Janitorial. Full and Part time shifts available. $12 to $14, per hour. Apply in person.

24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, Ca 92629

Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

SERVICES HOMEBOUND SENIOR ASSISTANCE? Are you concerned with a loved one living alone? For the homebound a caring assistant with a “listening ear” is often welcome.

I can help. I am a semi-retired psychologist with experience in supporting the emotional & psychological needs of elderly clients, helping them maintain independence in their own home. I can also help with errands, appts & social outings. Reasonable Rates. Excellent references and resume.

Call Joanne 949-632-7312 The Capistrano Dispatch March 23–April 12, 2018

Page 37

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Play For All Saddleback Valley Christian junior, recordholding para athlete looks to raise awareness for para sports and clinics

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

K

endall Stier is a state record-holder in the shot put.

The San Clemente resident and Saddleback Valley Christian (SVC) junior is also an All-American, a National Honor Society member with a 4.0 GPA and threw six inches over her state-record mark with an 11-foot, 9-inch throw at the ACSICS Invitational at Irvine High School on March 9.

Stier also has cerebral palsy, a neurological disorder that impairs motor function, and throws in the F-33 classification of para athletics.

“Everyone has their own obstacles and their own challenges,” Stier said. “If you were to believe what everyone is saying, ‘oh you can’t do this because x, y, z,’ there’s always going to be that ‘what if.’

Then there’s your own opinion and you have to form your own ideas of ‘this is who I am’ and I’m not going to let anyone tell me who I am because I know what I want

San Juan Preps Roundup

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Three San Juan Hills Teams in CIF-SS Rankings The Stallions are making early noise in the spring season.

San Juan Hills softball and boys tennis have earned No. 1 rankings in their respective CIF-SS divisions, and boys volleyball has worked up to No. 5 in Division 2.

Softball is No. 1 in Division 4 and has won four games in a row and six of its last seven games.

The Stallions (9-3) have been led offensively by senior Lauren Fairchild’s 14 RBIs. Senior Claire Steines is second with 10 RBIs and leads with two home runs. Senior Gracyn Houmis leads the The Capistrano Dispatch March 23–April 12, 2018

Saddleback Valley Christian junior Kendall Stier threw past her state record shotput mark on March 9. The San Clemente resident hopes to inspire others with disabilities whom follow a passion for sports to enter into competitions. Photo: Eric Heinz

to do and I have my own goals.”

“That’s basically what I’ve been doing for the last two years.”

Stier joined the SVC track and field team as a freshman in 2016, the same year that the CIF state body allowed para athletes to compete with their able-bodied counterparts in track and field and swimming.

Kendall and her mom and coach Shannon Stier saw the fight that went into getting that ordinance passed and are now taking on a new fight to have more para athletes take advantage of this opening.

team in hits (16) and runs (11).

Junior Phoebe Popplewell has taken command on the mound with eight wins and 45 strikeouts.

San Juan Hills doesn’t open league play until April 10 at El Toro.

Boys tennis is No. 1 in Division 4 and opened its season with seven straight wins before dropping its first two league matches at San Clemente on March 14 and at home against Tesoro on March 20.

The Stallions (7-2) were at Dana Hills on March 22, but results were not available at press time. San Juan Hills hosts Capistrano Valley on Thursday, March 29.

Boys volleyball was strong during tournament season and won the silver division championship at the Foothill tournament on March 10. San Juan Hills beat Aliso Niguel, 2-0, for the title.

The Stallions (7-5) have already exceeded last season’s win total of six in the first season under coach Garry Currier.

San Juan Hills opened league at Laguna Hills on March 22, but results were not available at press time. The Stallions return to league play at home against Trabuco Hills on Tuesday, March 27.

Kendall is a SAMbassador – SAM standing for Student Athlete in Motion – for the LA84 Foundation. LA84 is a legacy from the 1984 Olympics that aims to promote youth sports and provide equal access for all sports.

“It was definitely an honor,” Stier said of being named a SAMbassador in 2017.

“Now I get to be a part of process of not just students with disabilities, I get to be part of a process where my opinion on what grants should go to which foundations and help other students, kids, adults be able to play the sports they love.”

Stier is using her success and platform to promote the #PlayForAll movement and spread the word about clinics for youth para athletes.

“That’s a big problem,” Stier said. “Even though we, the para movement, have already fought legally to let students with disabilities play in high school and successfully won, a lot of kids don’t know that they can now compete in sports. We’ve been trying to make advertisements and post on social media and try to get awareness out. I definitely give thanks to LA84 as they’ve been getting the message out as well.”

Stier has also worked as an ambassador for Angel City Sports, the only para athlete clinic in California. The fourth Angel City Games will take place on June 21-24 at the University of California-Los Angeles with clinics and competition in track and field, swimming, archery, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis.

Kendall will continue her work in raising awareness and raising her own game as she competes next at the Arcadia Invitational on Friday, April 6 and looks forward to another potential state title.

With developments at the college level to allow para athletes to score points in regular track and field competitions in some eastern conferences, she will continue to push for that on the West Coast and try to inspire other high school para athletes to join her on the field.

“All you have to do is go to your track and field head coach and say ‘I want to play’ and you’re on the team,” Shannon Stier said. “That’s it.” CD

San Juan Hills boys volleyball has already exceeded last season’s win total under first-year coach Garry Currier and are ranked No. 5 in CIF-SS Division 4. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

St. Margaret’s Boys Lacrosse Opens with Win Streak The Tartans have won six straight to start this spring season with big wins over Servite on March 13, 14-6, at Loyola of Los Angeles on March 17, 6-4, and at Santa Margarita on March 21, 12-3.

St. Margaret’s (6-0) is ranked No. 2 Page 38

in Orange County by MaxLax and No. 9 in the West Region by US Lacrosse Magazine.

Offensively, the Tartans have been led by Conrad Hampson, Andy Shin, Kevin Groeninger and Garrett Kuntz.

Zane Handy has been strong in net.

St. Margaret’s hosts Faith Lutheran of Las Vegas on Friday, March 23 and Yorba Linda on Tuesday, March 27. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com