May 25, 2018

Inside: Aging Well For the Young at Heart OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

SPECIAL SECTION FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

MAY 25–JUNE 7, 2018 • VOLUME 16, ISSUE 10

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www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Get informed about the local primary election in this week’s guide.

South County NO-asis: Water Conservation, Availability and Security EYE ON SJC/PAGE 7

City Council Goes Forward with Amendments, Ordinances Tied to Vermeulen Ranch EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

St. Margaret’s Sun Wins Division 4 High Jump SPORTS/PAGE 26

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 San Juan Capistrano City Council Goes Forward with Amendments, Ordinances Tied to Vermeulen Ranch THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano City Council passed four items on Tuesday, May 15 related to the Vermeulen Ranch property that will allow for potential future developments to move forward.

The Vermeulen Ranch, a 35-acre parcel of land off of Del Obispo Street owned by the longtime, farming Vermeulen family aiming to sell the land, has been sought after by Spieker Senior Development to build on it for years. On May 15, City Council unanimously (with Councilmember Pam Patterson absent) passed a resolution for a mitigated negative declaration pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), approved a general plan amendment to change the land use of the property, a first reading of an ordinance to allow a residential community on the property and the first reading of an ordinance to approve a development agreement.

Amid pending litigation related to a former project proposal with Spieker, in September 2016, City Council adopted a resolution to initiate a general plan amendment study for a proposed commercial/residential development with a maximum of 180 residential units on approximately 30 acres of the property, a city staff report said.

The lawsuit ruling is still pending.

At the May 15 City Council meeting, city staff’s recommendation was to pass two resolutions and approve and introduce the first readings for two ordinances. The four items passed unanimously and will enable a future developer—more than likely, Spieker—to submit residential development applications.

The new project, that applicant Vermeulen Ranch, LLC is requesting, requires the approval of the general plan amendment to the property’s land use. Currently, the Vermeulen property is designated as agribusiness, which includes crops, orchards, nurseries, animal breeding, etc. Vermeulen requested to switch from agri-business to specific plan/precise plan, which the City Council passed unanimously.

The specific plan/precise plan land use The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

Highlighted is Vermeulen Ranch, the 35-acre parcel of land off of Del Obispo Street. Photo: Google Earth

designation allows a property to be governed by that specific plan/precise plan, with the maximum intensity of development dictated by that plan.

Vermeulen Ranch proposed a specific plan to designate to the property, dubbed “The Farm Specific Plan.” This plan would allow the 35-acre property to be developed into a residential community of up to 180 single-family units, a 0.5-acre park and a public trail leading from Del Obispo Street to Via Positiva. City Council unanimously approved the introduction and first reading of that ordinance, in addition to approving the introduction and first reading of the development agreement ordinance.

The development agreement ordinance includes a commitment with the city for a future developer to provide various “public benefits in exchange for vested development rights,” the staff report said.

The City Council also unanimously passed the resolution to declare the mitigated negative declaration to analyze the potential environmental impacts, which a city staff presentation at the May 15 stated that potential impacts, including traffic, were not significant.

Spieker representative Troy Bourne spoke on behalf of the Vermeulen Ranch Center, LLC at the May 15 meeting.

“I think that the legal disagreement is unfortunate, and an action tonight, as staff has recommended, removes any claim against the city,” Bourne said.

Councilmember Derek Reeve said his “yes” vote was due to costs of millions of dollars going toward potential ongoing litigation if the Council did not approve the resolutions and ordinances.

Some 15 residents spoke regarding the

Vermeulen Ranch property, many of whom opposed the development, but also some said that the proposed plan is a better option than a cookie-cutter development.

WHAT’S NEXT: When the ordinance for approval of the Farm Specific Plan and the development agreement ordinance come back to City Council for a second vote, The Dispatch will write a follow-up story.

—Emily Rasmussen

San Juan Capistrano Councilmember Patterson Meets President, Discusses Sanctuary State Law THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano City Councilmember Pam Patterson met with President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss the California Sanctuary State Law (Senate Bill 54), at around noon on Wednesday, May 16.

Patterson was invited to the White House along with some 15 other Southern California representatives who oppose SB 54. On April 3, San Juan Capistrano City Council passed a resolution, 4-1, condemning SB 54 as a state law that “severely inhibits” law enforcement and brings a “threat” to public safety. SB 54 has been in effect since Jan. 1 and essentially gives state and local law enforcement agencies discretion in whether to use money or personnel to investigate, interrogate, detain or arrest persons for immigrant enforcement purposes. “(SB 54) cripples our law enforcement and creates a threat to public safety,” Pat-

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terson said at the April 3 meeting.

At the roundtable meeting with Trump, nearby leaders in addition to Patterson included Laguna Niguel Mayor Elaine Gennaway, Orange County Supervisor Michelle Steele and San Diego County Supervisor Kristin Gasper, who is also running in San Juan’s 49th congressional race.

Patterson, who was on the Community Engagement Panel of local leaders, nuclear experts and entities adjacent or near the San Onofre Nucelar Generating Station (SONGS), cited concerns of the openness of the Mexico-California border and its proximity (of about 70 miles) to the decommissioned power plant. “…(B)ack in 2001, they were testifying before Congress that the terrorists were saying ‘target the power plants,’” Patterson said to Trump at the May 16 meeting.

“So, the fact that we have this unsecured border is putting us at great risk because we know that terrorists are coming in.”

Patterson also said to Trump that SONGS has “no” security and is a Fukushima “waiting to happen.”

“It doesn’t sound too good,” Trump said after saying that he would look into it.

San Juan Capistrano Mayor Sergio Farias, the only dissenting vote against the city’s resolution to condemn SB 54, said that he hopes Patterson doesn’t use city funds for her travel expenses to Washington, D.C. As of May 16, San Juan Capistrano Assistant City Manager Jacob Green said that no city funds have been used for Patterson’s trip to D.C. Farias, who is now on the CEP, also criticized Patterson’s statement to Trump that SONGS is the most unsecured power plant in the nation, saying it was factually incorrect. He also criticized her for characterizing immigrants as terrorists.

“I’m guessing she meant immigrants coming through the southern border; they both (Trump and Patterson) characterized them as being terrorists, which is untrue,” Farias said, noting that more than 5,000 San Juan Capistrano residents are nonU.S. citizens.

In regard to SB 54, Farias said, “I think it’s a divisive topic. I think people, regardless of their legal status, are invested in the community they live in; I think that we shouldn’t ignore them or consider them foreign. We should consider them as a part of their community.”

Patterson did not return calls requesting a comment on the visit.

WHAT’S NEXT: Patterson’s term on Council will be up for election in November, along with Councilmembers Reeve and Kerry Ferguson. Reeve and Ferguson have announced that they will be running for reelection, but Patterson did not respond for comment if she is also running for reelection. —ER (Cont. on page 4) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3)

City Council Approves Plans for Northwest Open Space Community Park Project THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano City Council on Tuesday, May 15 approved plans for the Northwest Open Space Community Parks Project, which will include a cultural area, multi-use trail and more.

NUVIS, the contractor used for design work for the city, outlined what the 3.61acre park would look like and presented a Village of Putuidesm concept plan. In the plan, outlined is a village gathering area that would contain educational elements, a community grinding rock and a variety of art.

The Council adopted a resolution to approve the mitigated negative declaration for the project, approved the project plans, authorized city staff to advertise the project for a bid and to issue request proposals for archeological and paleontological services, including Native American monitoring.

The Council also approved funding for the park project—a $2.8 million budget for design and construction, and an additional $60,000-$80,000 annually for maintenance—will come from the Farm Operations Fund.

The Council voted 3-1 on four items, with Councilmember Derek Reeve opposed, because of the financial aspect, he said.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city staff report estimates that the project could be completed in spring or early summer of 2019. —ER

CUSD Talks Future Bonds and Budget THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) board of trustees on Wednesday, May 23 celebrated many of its teachers, staff and students, at its last meeting of the 2017-2018 school year.

As the board commended CUSD affiliates for a successful school year, they also began discussions for what is on the horizon for next year. In the works are a potential bond measure for 2020 and the proposed 2018-2019 budget.

The potential bond measure is being discussed back-and-forth by the CUSD board and its finance advisory committee, working together to find a concept for a potential bond measure to be put on the 2020 ballot. The board discussed the pros and cons of doing a district-wide bond measure, or to propose a singular, or multiple, location for a bond measure to be proposed. San Clemente was brought up as a potential location for a proposed bond measure. The board is expected to produce a timeline of the bond’s progress at its next meeting.

The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

The proposed 2018-2019 budget expenditures are at approximately $502 million, compared to the approximately $499 million from 2017-2018 budget. The majority of expenditures derive from salaries and employee benefits. The CUSD board did not take an action on the budget and is expected to vote on it at their next board meeting.

Also, the board unanimously voted to approve the tentative agreement with the Capistrano chapter of the California School Employees Association, a $3.8 million contract for July 2016 to June 2018.

The board also agreed to a new term agreement with the association for July 2018 to June 2021.

WHAT’S NEXT: The next CUSD board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 20 at the district’s office, at 33122 Valle Rd., San Juan Capistrano.

—ER

Local Leaders Discuss Prop 13 Split Roll Tax THE LATEST: State Sen. Patricia Bates, State Board of Equalization member Diane Harkey and Orange County Taxpayers Association President and CEO Carolyn Cavecche held a presentation related to the petition circulating on the Proposition 13 split roll tax, on Friday, May 18.

The presentation, held at the Outlets at San Clemente, was about the petition to put the split roll tax on either the 2018 or 2020 ballot, that would propose to change how commercial property taxes are assessed via Prop 13—the tax reform passed in 1978 that sets property tax rates at 1 percent of the property’s assessed value each time it is sold. The split roll tax would propose to require commercial and industrial properties to be taxed based on their market value, opposed to their purchase price. Residential properties would remain as is.

Bates, Harkey and Cavecche spoke against the petition for the split roll tax, claiming it would damage business, particularly small business, in California.

“The idea of reforming (Prop 13) is supposedly under the guise that it is unfair currently to residential homeowners because businesses don’t pay their pay share,” Bates said. “That is a falsehood.”

Bates continued on that Prop 13 has advanced economic opportunities in the state, in addition to homeowner opportunities. Harkey said that she believes this change to Prop 13 would begin at the commercial properties but would eventually lead to residential properties.

WHAT’S NEXT: Bates is running for reelection for State Senator in the 36th district and Harkey is running for Congress in the 49th district. Assemblymember Bill Brough, who was stated as a host on the event flyer but did not attend the event, is running for reelection for his seat in the State Assembly in the 73rd district. —ER Page 4

EYE ON SJC

Community Meetings WEDNESDAY, MAY 30 Early Voting at the Farmers Market 3-7 p.m. There will be a pop-up (mobile) voting service center at Downtown Farmers Market for the 2018 California Primary Election. Services offered at the pop-up center will allow secure vote-by-mail ballot drop off, inperson polling place voting, replacement ballots and voter assistance. The Downtown Farmers Market is located on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street, at 31800 El Camino Real. Go to www.ocvote.com for more information.

History Lecture 7 p.m. Join Dr. Rose Marie Beebe and Dr. Robert Senkewicz for a history lecture on Junipero Serra: The Man Behind the Myth. Seating is limited, RSVP to Brenda Mumma at bmumma@missionsjc.com. At the Mission San Juan Capistrano Soldiers Barracks Gallery, 26801 Ortega Hwy. FRIDAY, JUNE 1 Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Hennessey’s Tavern, 31761 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome.

Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

TUESDAY, JUNE 5 Statewide Primary Election Voters will participate in the 2018 California Primary Election that includes candidates for Governor, Congress, State Senator and other local representatives. To find your polling place, go to www.sos.ca.gov/ elections/polling-place/.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 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, JUNE 8 Next issue of The Dispatch publishes.

The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

Mission San Juan Capistrano Wraps Up Battle of the Mariachis Festival More than 3,000 people flocked to Mission San Juan Capistrano on Saturday, May 12 for the 14th Annual Battle of the Mariachis Festival.

The event showcased young mariachi musicians during an all-inclusive day of cultural celebrations and family fun. The event featured live performances by mariachi groups, competing on stage for cash prizes in front of distinguished judges.

“The festival featured 13 mariachi groups from three states, including California, Nevada and Arizona,” a press release said. “A sold-out audience of more than 3,000 guests experienced exciting performances from the mariachi music groups which ranged in age from elementary school to university and professional level.”

The first place youth category winner was Mariachi Corazón de Tucson, of Tucson, Arizona; and the first place open category was Mariachi de Uclatlán, of University of California, Los Angeles. Each team won $1,500.

Battle of the Mariachis Festival at Mission San Juan Capistrano in 2013. Photo: File

chili and best pie will also be given out as free activities for kids. St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, 27129 Calle Arroyo, Ste. 1803, San Juan Capistrano. For more information, go to www.hoedown4hunger. org or call 949.542.3445.

SC Area Republican Women Federated Announces Scholarship Recipients

St. Basil Hoedown for Hunger with FAM Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) and Focus OC are hosting a Charity Hoedown for Hunger from 12-6 p.m. on Sunday, June 3. The event is a fundraiser with 100 percent of the proceeds going to feed hungry children and families in Orange County through FAM and Focus OC. Focus OC delivers food to families who don’t have enough money to feed their children and are living in small hotels. Focus OC provides food via vouchers and are more essential in summer when school food programs are not available.

FAM runs a daily food bank in San Clemente and a weekly food bank in San Juan Capistrano on Wednesdays. FAM also gives out clothing, delivers food to elderly people living in cars and on the streets, in addition to other services. The hoedown is being hosted by founder Irene Basdakis, of the St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church in San Juan Capistrano.

“We truly begin to live a life of purpose when we can look beyond our own churches and households and see the community around us as our neighbors, whom we are called to care for and embrace as part of our extended family,” Basdakis said in a press release.

The hoedown will feature live music from the Kelly Boyz and will have choice of ribs, hamburgers or hotdogs, and drink selections. Awards for the best tasting

The San Clemente Area Republican Women Federated (SCARWF) organization announced its 2018 Scholarship Awards. The following winners are: San Juan Hills High School representatives Lucy Collins of Ladera Ranch, who will attend Columbia University, and Morgan Derifield of San Juan Capistrano who will attend Texas Christian University.

At St. Margaret’s, Skyler Cordrey, who will attend Pennsylvania University, was a representative. Several other students from area high schools received scholarships as well. All students achieved exceptional GPA scores, were involved in their communities by serving on various extracurricular activities and exhibited outstanding qualities to be leaders in their new colleges, according to a press release from SCARWF. “We are delighted these eight individuals will go out in the world to represent us in the future and hold our beliefs to stand as the future of the Republican Party,” the release stated. “Winners will be invited to speak at our June 13 luncheon at Talega Golf Club on the subject: “Why They Feel They Are Republicans.”

Each recipient was awarded $1,100 in credit to be used at their college of choice.

“We had a great number of applications to review, who were all gifted students;

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however, we are sorry we could not offer scholarships to all who applied and we wish them the best in their future,” the release stated. “Juniors should study hard and apply next year.”

Red Cross Calls for Summer Blood Donations to Prevent a Shortage The next Red Cross blood drive in San Clemente will take place at the San Clemente Community Center, located at 100 N. Calle Seville, from 1-7 p.m. on Friday, May 25.

There will also be a blood drive in Dana Point at the Monarch Coast Apartment Homes, 32400 Crown Valley Pkwy., from 1-7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 29.

According to a press release, the American Red Cross is counting on volunteer donors to give blood and help ensure patient needs can be met this summer.

Around Memorial Day, the Red Cross sees a steep decline in blood donations.

Busy summer schedules, vacations and school breaks also cause a drop in donations.

Schedule an appointment to donate this summer by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting www.redcrossblood.org or calling 1.800.733.2767.

All who donate blood or platelets now through June 10 will receive a $5 Amazon gift card via email, courtesy of Suburban Propane. Additionally, those who come to give May 25-29, will receive an exclusive Red Cross branded T-shirt, while supplies last.

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

EYE ON SJC

South County NO-asis: Part 1

working earnestly to explore options with their recyclable water.

“We’ve (SCWD) been investing heavily in the recycled water program for more than 35 years,” Erkeneff commented. Largely an irrigation solution, Erkeneff explained that recycled water frees potable water by cleansing and purifying wastewater for irrigation uses as well as other uses.

For example, Rayfield commented that Monarch Beach Resort recently underwent conversion to recycle its laundry water.

Examining water conservation, availability and security in South Orange County

BY DANIEL RITZ AND EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

R

ecently, unprecedented water shortages in the African metropolis of Cape Town, South Africa, have brought water security to international consciousness.

According to a recent report by the United States Drought Monitoring agency at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln on May 17, the entirety of Orange County is still considered to be within what they call a “severe drought scenario.” According to that study, some areas of the Southwestern region’s precipitation (rainfall and snowpack are measured by the state of California by “water year,” which runs from Oct.1 to Sept. 30) was in the second percentile or lower.

As South Orange County officially enters summer on June 21, leaving the wet season behind, water security remains a top priority.

WHERE ARE WE NOW? The 2017 rainy season added to the state’s unimpaired runoff, which represents the natural water production of a river basin, unaltered by upstream diversions, storage, or by export or import of water to or from other watersheds, according to the California Department of Water Resources (CWR).

In the 2016-2017 seasonal statewide total (October to April) of unimpaired runoff, the statewide total tallied 68.8 million acre feet (AF), according to a CWR report.

That compares to 2012-2013’s seasonal total, which some refer to as the height of the drought, that came to 20.8 million AF. In 2017-2018, the seasonal total came to 21.4 million AF. The majority of the 2017 rainfall was north of what is called the “Bay area delta.”

Unlike other areas of California and Orange County where more accessible ground water basins have been tapped to exhaustion for decades, South Orange County relies heavily on imported waters, making water conservation more pertinent, Metropolitan Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) Director of Public Affairs Damon Micalizzi said.

South Coast Water District (SCWD) Directors Rick Erkeneff and Wayne Rayfield said their users rely on 85 to 100 percent of imported potable water from a combination of water from the California State The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

Reservoirs may be above average from 2017’s hearty precipitation, but in 2018, snowpack and rainfall measurements returned to well below average levels. Eastern Sierra’s. Photo: Emily Rasmussen

Water Project (SWP) and the Colorado River aqueduct.

The SWP collects water from rivers in Northern California and redistributes it to the water-scarce but more populous south through a network of aqueducts, pumping stations and power plants.

About 70 percent of the water provided by the project is used for urban areas and industry in Southern California and the San Francisco Bay Area, and 30 percent is used for irrigation in the Central Valley. To reach Southern California, the water must be pumped 2,882 ft. over the Tehachapi Mountains, with 1,926 ft. at the Edmonston Pumping Plant alone, the highest single water lift in the world.

The Colorado River is the source of 4.4 million AF per year for California. Six other states along the river’s watershed (Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona) and Mexico, share allocated portions of river water. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) hold priority water rights on the Colorado. It sells water to 95 percent of the South Coast region.

“Right now, the key reservoirs in the state are above average, so from a supply standpoint we’re in pretty good shape,” Micalizzi said. “Due to generous rains from last year’s winter, reservoirs are looking good and groundwater basins are being replenished.”

LOCAL PROGRAMS Locally, SCWD is the agency that provides water to the majority of Dana Point properties, although the city of San Juan Capistrano and Moulton Niguel Water Dis-

trict also cover small areas in Dana Point.

Rayfield said in a way he and SCWD were “blessed” in terms of conservation, as SCWD users have shown to be above average in terms of water usage “bounceback” after exiting the major drought period of 2013.

“It’s a funny business,” Rayfield laughed, “convincing people not to buy our product.

“At maximum reduction, SCWD users in 2013 cut their usage down 26 percent from average,” Rayfield said. “As a lot of the state has returned to more regular usage rates, our users have maintained an approximately 20 percent reduction.”

In San Juan Capistrano, the city uses a mix of local groundwater and imported water from MWDOC. The city’s water consumption varies on weather, with a running annual average of about 9,000 AF, said San Juan Capistrano Assistant City Manager Jacob Green. About 2,700 AF, or 35 percent, of that is from local groundwater, and the groundwater pumping and treatment capacity is about double the 2,700 AF, although the below-average rainfall over the past several years has lowered the groundwater to the point where the city has limited ability to extract groundwater, Green said.

“We have seven days of water saved in various local reservoirs in the area in case of an emergency,” Rayfield said. “We also recently invested in a reservoir off Oso Parkway in Mission Viejo called the Upper Chiquita.”

The Upper Chiquita reservoir is largely owned by Santa Margarita Water District, with SCWD owning a 10 percent share.

Erkeneff said that SCWD has also been

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INVESTING IN THE FUTURE It is projected that California’s population will grow to almost 50 million by 2050.

If that prediction comes true and there is no action to increase the water supply, the difference between water demand and supply would be between 2–6 million AF by the year 2020.

With statistics such as these, the decades-long over-dependency on a finite groundwater basin, as well as fixed usages such as agricultural production for food, have Erkeneff, Rayfield and SCWD looking for future options for water security.

“There are examples, in California, of the ground literally giving way, literally ‘shrinking,’ as what little groundwater exists is mined from below,” Erkeneff explained. He added that the length of time to get a pump, and having to increase the depth that they are built, is rapidly growing.

One alternative option is the Doheny Desalination plant project, which recently released an initial draft Environmental Impact Report.

Erkeneff reasoned particular benefits to a desalination plant, which would convert ocean water to usable water at Doheny, include the fact that SCWD currently owns the land the plant would be housed on and it would utilize new subterranean slant wells that would not disrupt sea life or ecosystems by pulling open ocean water. Advancing brine-blending enabled by utilization of the South Orange County Wastewater treatment facility outpour pipe outside Doheny State Beach would reduce the creation of kill-zones due to over-salinized water too.

A graphic on SCWD’s website shows that if the district decides to pursue desalination, in five years, it could potentially provide 75 percent of supply while dramatically reducing imported water reliance to only 5 percent.

Both the Doheny Desalination Plant, and long-term water conservation programs, are initiatives requiring long-term foresight.

As another dry summer season lurks around the corner, regional distributors, local municipalities and distributors, and residents will have to work together to ensure that what has been described as “true California gold” remains accessible.

“South County NO-asis” will be an ongoing series concerning water conservation, availability and security. Be sure to look for our next update in the early summer months, in print and online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Meet the Candidates for California’s 49th Congressional District

BY ERIC HEINZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he election for the 116th United States Congress has shaped up to be a monumental contest. The atmosphere of challenging new ideas, innovative solutions to the nation’s problems and political ideologies are culminating across the United States.

Many high-profile representatives will not seek reelection in their districts, one of whom is the 49th’s own Darrell Issa, a Republican based in Vista. Issa said in a press release earlier this year that he would not defend the seat that represents San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, which he’s held since 2001.

That opened the door to many local hopefuls who want to bring change in their own ways to the House—an astonishing 16 candidates have thrown their hat into the ring—but only two will be selected in the primary election for a runoff in the general election on Nov. 6.

Polls for the primary election are open 7 a.m.-8 p.m. on June 5 for the primary election. Visit www.ocvote.com to find out more information and where to vote.

Registration to vote for the primary election has passed, but people can still register in person using the conditional voter registration process.

Some of the key issues in the debates have surrounded current and ongoing issues, such as gun-control laws, immigration and legal status conflicts, foreign policy and environmental debates.

To simplify the process, we’ve selected four of the top policies the candidates are championing through their forums as well as candidate statements from their websites.

Some of the issues omitted include the proposed toll roads through San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano communities, as it is a local issue that would likely be decided by officials within Orange County and Southern California.

Sources of information were taken from candidate forums, statements of candidacy and candidate websites.

CANDIDATES HAVE BEEN LISTED IN BALLOT ORDER: ROBERT PENDLETON, No Party Preference/K-9 Party-affiliated • Wants to create legislation to protect personal data and require companies to ask permission to use it through transactions • Supports increasing minimum age to 21 to purchase guns, federal background

The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

DOUG APPLEGATE, Democrat • Has vowed to work with federal legislators to remove spent nuclear waste from San Onofre Nuclear Generating

checks • Advocates immigration policies based on work and skill merits • Wants to place term limits on Congress SARA JACOBS, Democrat • An advocate for women’s rights in health care, employment opportunities and advocates against harassment

and abuse • Is in favor of a universal health care model, similar to models in Europe and other countries • Wants to stop gun violence by introducing federal background checks on people who attempt to purchase firearms • Advocates funding Housing and Urban Development programs to address issues of growing population

MIKE LEVIN, Democrat

• Wants to explore clean energy and give incentives to companies for converting to alternative and renewable fuels; opposes off-shore drilling proposals for 2024 in California and other coastal-state waters • Advocates for strengthening the Affordable Care Act and creating a more uniform health care system • Opposes deportation policies set forth by the Trump administration • Advocates for more funding in education, specifically for science, technology, engineering and math

Station • Wants to bring more power back to Congress to approve U.S. military engaging in combat missions and wars • Is in favor of having 100 percent renewable energy in the U.S. in the next 10 years • Advocates for a single-payer health care system

JOSHUA SCHOONOVER, Republican • Vows to help keep the ocean and environment clean by providing incentives to businesses to use sustainable materials and waste removal practices • Wants to decrease the cost of health care • Advocates to fix illegal immigration problems • Wants to remove cannabis from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s schedule of illegal drugs MIKE SCHMITT, Republican • Advocates for health care reform to repeal the Affordable Care Act, return control to patients and doctors • Opposes offshore drilling by 2024 off U.S. coasts • Supports gun rights and is a “strong” proponent of the Second Amendment • Advocates immigration policies to accept based on merit and skill sets

PAUL G. KERR, Democrat • Aims to create easier access to better education • Advocates for strengthening care for military veterans, wants to curtail mental health problems they face • Is an advocate for strengthening the middle class, advocates for an accessible health care system for low-income families • Is self-described as “100 percent prochoice” on abortion rights

DANIELLE ST. JOHN, Green • Is in favor of bringing harmonizing discussions to Congress in an effort to make collaborative legislation • Wants to drive a “cooperative economy” that is accountable for all members, eliminating any kind of greed in the marketplace • Advocates for a complete reform of the U.S. education system, increasing teachers’ salaries and better physical health and creative curriculum • Advocates for gun laws that allow responsible ownership

KRISTIN GASPAR, Republican • Opposes various taxes and new taxes, self-described “tax fighter,” is an advocate for reforming federal tax code • Opposes California’s “Sanctuary State” law, wants to strengthen Southern California’s border • Wants to increase funding for regional sciences and education to make U.S. workforce more competitive in future markets • Wants to repeal the Affordable Care Act and allow for practitioners to work across state lines

ROCKY J. CHÁVEZ, Republican • Wants to scale back federal regulations and intervention into business to create an easier market on small businesses and industry • Advocates creating programs to crack down on human trafficking and other violent felony-level crimes • Has stayed neutral on federal and state gun-reform policies • Favors creating a stronger national defense

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DIANE L. HARKEY, Republican • Wants to make changes to the federal tax code • Advocates for strengthening California’s resources of water, power and transportation • Is in favor of reducing the national deficit by cutting federal spending • Supports stronger national defense JOSHUA L. HANCOCK, Libertarian • Seeks to address the growing homeless populations in California and U.S. • Supports increasing funding for U.S. border security • Wants to dramatically cut federal spending to decrease the national debt • Supports responsible gun ownership, would not ban assault rifles BRIAN MARYOTT, Republican • Wants more national security measures in place; would vote to authorize more authority to the president to engage in foreign conflicts, such as with North Korea • Does not support off-shore oil drilling, advocates for environmental protection, but wants a balance of responsibility • Favors repealing the Affordable Care Act • Opposes California’s “Sanctuary State” laws JORDAN P. MILLS, Peace and Freedom • Opposes the Trump administration’s proposed wall along the Mexican border as well as deportations • Is in favor of outlawing high-caliber rifles for public purchase; opposes all war • Supports pro-choice policies for women • Wants to strengthen Social Security and social services DAVID MEDWAY, Republican • Aims to lower the national debt • Favors affordable health care across the spectrum • Is a pro-choice candidate and is pro women’s rights to access health care services • Wants to find “innovative” solutions to stop gun violence CRAIG A. NORDAL, Republican • Supports the Trump administration’s plan to increase offshore oil drilling by 2024 in an effort to boost U.S. trade status • Advocates for a more Christian-based Legislature, religious freedom and liberty • Is in favor of overturning Roe V. Wade • Supports building and completing a wall along the Mexican border www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Sheriff’s Department Showdown In sheriff’s race, Orange County will choose reform or business as usual

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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fter 10 years of leading the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD), Sheriff Sandra Hutchens’ seat is wide open.

OCSD is the nation’s fifth largest sheriff’s department, which serves 3.1 million residents and oversees nearly 4,000 employees. On June 5, voters will choose who OCSD’s next leader will be.

With nearly 30 years of experience at OCSD, Undersheriff Don Barnes, secondin-command to Hutchens, is running a campaign based on his administrative experience in law enforcement, his accomplishments as undersheriff and his endorsement by Hutchens, among others.

Barnes hopes to build on policies and strategies he’s been a part of since 2016, when he began as undersheriff.

Also with nearly 30 years of experience with OCSD, Aliso Viejo Mayor Dave Harrington is running a campaign on reforming the Sheriff’s Department and

his experience as mayor. Harrington’s main goals are to increase efficiency and transparency in the Sheriff’s Department.

Harrington’s list of endorsements largely include local mayors and councilmembers, among others.

Duke Nguyen, with more than 26 years of law enforcement experience, started out with the Santa Ana Police Department and currently works with the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office in the Justice System Integrity Division. Nguyen is running a campaign largely based on community policing and transparency, and one of his endorsements includes the Democratic Party of Orange County.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department, which oversees 13 cities including Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, has been on the forefront of many local issues facing South Orange County.

Last year, in response to rising law enforcement contract costs with its 13 cities, a coalition was formed by the city managers to draft a study to look into the costs.

The findings are expected to be released later this year.

Orange County made national headlines in its controversial response to vacating its some-700 people living in the Santa Ana riverbed, which led to lawsuits and fingerpointing countywide. A long-term solution is yet to be determined.

California Senate Bill 54—the Sanctuary State Law that prohibits law enforcement from cooperating with immigration authorities—has also put Orange County in the national spotlight, as cities including Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano publicly condemned the bill. OCSD’s response to the legislation was to make inmate information publicly available online.

It All Comes Down to This Orange County District Attorney election features fiery candidates

BY ERIC HEINZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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range County district attorney incumbent Tony Rackauckas and challenger Todd Spitzer have been all but salivating at the opportunity to face each other in an election. But it won’t be without getting past newcomers Brett Murdock, a victims’ rights attorney, and currently suspended attorney Lenore Albert-Sheridan of Huntington Beach.

Rackauckas has been Orange County’s district attorney since 1998.

Since then, he’s aggressively pursued human trafficking, drug-related crimes, started the Gang Reduction Intervention Programs (GRIP) around the county and touts prosecuting more than 60,000 cases The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

Clockwise from top left: Tony Rackauckas, Todd Spitzer, Lenore Albert-Sheridan, Brett Murdock.

under his watch with “a felony conviction rate of 90 percent,” according to his candidate statement. He’s also been an ally of Orange County Sheriff Sandra Hutchens.

Spitzer is currently serving as an Orange County supervisor in District 3. Spitzer has been extremely visible to

The Capistrano Dispatch asked each of these candidates their views on these three issues and how they will handle them if elected sheriff. Here’s what they said.

RISING CONTRACT COSTS • Barnes said an approach that he’s been contemplating is to regionalize law enforcement, taking down city borders and creating a hybrid model with contract cities. That would mean cities would still fund patrol deputies and traffic enforcement, but to deploy those resources on a broader scale. “That gets overlaid as a patrol support provision, rather than something that you carry the full cost of,” Barnes said.

• Harrington said his approach would be to combine cities between management services, such as combining police chiefs between multiple cities, and not to regionalize deputies out on the street. Said Harrington, “For example, Aliso Viejo and Laguna Hills want to share a lieutenant and an admin sergeant, so essentially between those two cities we’d eliminate $700,000 approximately from the contract.”

• Nguyen said his plan would be to increase public safety by putting more deputies patrolling streets and curtailing services that cities don’t need as much.

“I want to sit down with every mayor in every South Orange County city and visit the issues, and make sure that the contract is exactly what it’s called for, we don’t overcharge or undermine the contract,” Nguyen said.

that. His long-term plan is to educate the public on the homeless and to create an enforcement plan with a “larger collaborative strategy.”

• Harrington said he wants to separate the different groups of homeless people, such as criminals and those mentally ill, because “those groups are all dealt with differently, they need different services, the mental health people need more wrap-around-style services, others need transitional housing and criminals need law enforcement.”

• Nguyen emphasized that being homeless is not a crime, and his goals are to create a mental health evaluation team and provide long-term shelter. “We have $700 million in the county to utilize to get our people who are homeless into some sort of a long-term shelter,” Nguyen said.

HOMELESSNESS • Barnes said he managed to get several hundred people into services from the Santa Ana riverbed and made 500-plus arrests, and wants to build on

SANCTUARY STATE LAW • Barnes is against the Sanctuary State Law and said he plans to continue the OCSD’s practice of posting inmate release information online and to speak out against the bill with legislators.

• Harrington is also against the Sanctuary State Law and said he agrees with the Sheriff Department’s posting of inmate information. He hopes the courts will sort the issue out.

• Nguyen said that if elected, he would retract the online postings of inmate information, and people who commit higher felonies, are always deported anyway.

Nguyen said he would release inmate information to immigration officers if they had proper court orders.

To learn more about the candidates, visit their websites: www.barnesforsheriff. com; www.harringtonforsheriff.com; and www.nguyenforsheriff.com. CD

South County’s voting base in the last year as one of the liaisons to the Transportation Corridor Agencies and recently took a stand against one of the proposals for the 241 southbound extension through San Clemente.

Spitzer has also been Rackauckas’s nemesis since he was employed by the District Attorney’s Office about 10 years ago. The two had a falling out of sorts, and Spitzer has openly criticized Rackauckas’s decisions. Spitzer touted his work with Federal Judge David O. Carter on the homeless lawsuit (which is ongoing), his trial record of 122 cases and achieving a 92 percent conviction rate, and decried current crime rates as inaction from the district attorney.

Murdock takes a bit of a different approach. Instead of presenting a conviction record, his top priority is to try to influence rehabilitation instead of incarceration. He stated he wants to increase transparency at the district attorney’s office, and he accused Rackauckas of corruption and criticized Spitzer of having a political agenda that influences him negatively as a member of the judicial process.

Albert-Sheridan has also advocated for reform instead of jail time. She advocated for programs to help reduce crimes in neighborhoods where crime rates are high as part of a federally funded outlet, and she cites her experience as a victim of crime that gives her the necessary understanding of how to be an advocate for victims. Albert-Sheridan said she wants to tackle corruption crimes harder than any other of her predecessors.

Albert-Sheridan was suspended from the California State Bar on Feb. 14 for at least 30 days until she complies with the terms of her suspension.

Spitzer and Rackauckas have had their fair share of instances as well.

Rackauckas has had to deal with corruption accusations for years while also explaining the extent of a recent “snitch scandal” at Orange County jails. Spitzer was infamously involved in a situation in 2015 at a Wahoo’s Fish Tacos in Lake Forest when he made a “citizen’s arrest” of a transient man who was mumbling to himself, and eventually he lost a lawsuit to keep the records detailing the incident sealed. CD

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www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Meet the Candidates for State Assembly’s 73rd District

BY DANIEL RITZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

WILLIAM “BILL” BROUGH, Republican Top Priorities: • Supporting Assembly Bill 346. The measure authorizes redevelopment “successor” agencies to use portions of their existing affordable housing funds for the development of homelessness services, transitional housing or emergency housing services • Supporting Assembly Bill 911 and its cousin Senate Bill 781 which aim to amend California law that prohibits emergency rooms from being without sufficient inpatient quarters • Brough has hosted, with Senator Patricia Bates, several presentations on opioid abuse in Orange County • Supports the repeal of the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, establishing a comprehensive transportation funding program by increasing the motor vehicle fuel tax by $0.12 per gallon ED SACHS, Republican Top Priorities: • Sachs is adamantly opposed to any sanctuary state laws and firmly believes that California citizens have been endangered by AB 109, Proposition 47 and 57

Be sure to vote on June 5 for the 2018 California primary election. Photo: File

• Public safety. Sachs said he believes law enforcement needs to be fully funded • Sachs called for a meeting of all South Orange County mayors under Secure OC Schools to ensure finding and filling security gaps at every school, attempting to look for money to secure schools.

SCOTT RHINEHART, Democrat Top Priorities: • Rhinehart believes it is unreasonable for citizens to spend twice as much on health care costs as other nations providing health care to all of their citizens • Believes renewal efforts must be implemented to protect California’s coastlines from new offshore drilling. He believes fracking must also be stopped immediately to save limited water supply • Rhinehart believes California’s infrastructure is aging and potentially dangerous and must be addressed. He believes such efforts will create new jobs on the district, county and state levels. He wants to develop California into a world leader of renewable energy production • Rhinehart says the lack of affordable housing is inevitably assisting the homeless crisis

Meet the Candidates for State Senate’s 36th District

BY DANIEL RITZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

PATRICIA C. BATES, Republican Top Priorities: •Fighting to repeal gas taxes added to gasoline costs.

Bates believes voters should have a say in any future attempts to increase gas taxes • Believes securing the border of California should be one of the legislature’s highest priorities even if it calls for deploying the National Guard • Defunding Gov. Jerry Brown’s “High Speed Rail” project • Bates believes that at least 80 percent of education spending should be required to be spent in the classroom instead on administrator salaries

Sources of information were taken from candidate forums, statements of candidacy and candidate websites.

MARGGIE CASTELLANO, Democrat Top Priorities: • Pushing for “common sense” gun legislation • “Common sense” state regulations for residential treatment facilities to protect both the person in recovery and the neighborhood residence around such a facility • Enhancing protection of the environment from offshore oil drilling and climate change • Immediately removing all nuclear waste from San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station

Race for South Orange County’s Board of Education Member Orange County voters will choose who guides the county forward in education

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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he Orange County Board of Education promotes student achievement, offers leadership, services and resources for Orange County school districts, educators and the community.

In addition to approving the annual budget for the Orange County Department of Education, policies that the Board of Education enact can range from instruction materials, funding and to school safety. Trustee Area 5 encompasses South Orange County, including Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

Linda Lindholm has held the Area 5 seat since 2014 and is not running for reelection, with five candidates vying to take the seat. Here’s a summary of what The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

each candidate has to bring to South Orange County’s future in education.

Sources of information were taken from candidate forums, statements of candidacy and candidate websites.

KIMBERLY CLARK • Has experience as a public school siteadminister, counselor and director of an educational nonprofit organization and is completing a master’s degree • Aims to be student centered • Priorities on school safety, focusing on mental health • Focus funds for inside of the classroom MIKE DALATI • Is an educator • Dalati was not immediately available

for comment, but according to a 2016 race for the South Orange County Community College District race, has experience as an ORT Jewish college professor and is the co-founder of OC Latino Outreach DAN DRAITSER • Is a mortgage lender • Draitser could not be reached for comment MARY NAVARRO • Is a former assistant superintendent, school principal and teacher • Hopes to expand after-school enrichment and arts programs • Top priority is security at schools for students and teachers • Focus funds for inside of the classroom

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LISA SPARKS • Has 25-plus years of education experience and is currently the dean for the Chapman University School of Communication • Aims to prepare the “whole student” for college, career and life experiences • Plans to expand the number of charter schools • Focus funds for inside of the classroom ••• For more information on these candidates, visit www.votekimberlyclark. com, www.votemarynavarro.com, and www. votesparks.org. The Capistrano Dispatch could not find a website or candidate statement for Dalati or Draitser. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

aging well

For the Young at Heart

An Alternative Method More senior patients turn to medical cannabis instead of opioids come to me with years of using opioids,

By Emily Rasmussen and I’ll take them off and onto using efore cannabis was legalized in marijuana and (many) feel like they have California, many people were using their life back. the plant for medical purposes.

Why does medical cannabis create From traditionally smoking the plant, to that response? ingesting it via edibles or using cannabiEveryone knows we’re in an opioid cridiol, medical cannabis continues to push sis, there’s a lot of reasons: lack of theraback its negative stigma and is reaching pies, over marketing of pharmaceuticals, more patients than ever before. etc. But in the early 90s we started using As South Orange County, along with more opioids and I started observing that the rest of California, battles the opioid patients would use an opioid but need epidemic—including San Clemente City a higher dosage to get the same effect Council’s vote on April 3 to hire a law firm (from when they started). They want that to file litigation against companies that pain relief from the beginning so they take they claim are directly responsible for more and more. Then their pain scales contributing to the opioid crisis, joining would increase to nine or 10 (on a scale other statewide attorneys on the same of 1-10) because of low pain cause—many people are tolerance and high dosages. ready for a change.

How many of the patients In Orange County, Dana you recommend medical canPoint has the highest 5-year nabis to are seniors? average (2011-2015) rate of I would say at least oneemergency department visits, third of them are over the age at 120.2 per 100,000. San of 60. It’s becoming more and Clemente came in second more common now. Before, highest at 92.4 per 100,000; the geriatric population and San Juan Capistrano Dr. Mark Wallace wasn’t open to this. Now, it’s came in seventh at 72.8 per becoming common, but 20 or 100,000, according to “Opioid 30 years ago they wouldn’t.

Overdose & Death in Orange County,” a Are seniors at a higher risk for opioid 2017 report by the Orange County Health addiction or overdose?

Care Agency (OCHCA).

The elderly population are at risk for The majority of overdose deaths (opioid) overdose because they might be were non-Hispanic whites at 81 percent, on more medications, they may not mefollowed by Hispanics. Orange County tabolize opioids as fast, some might have residents between the ages of 45 to 54 lung disease or heart disease, and so had the highest overdose death rates, they probably are at risk with overdoses and nearly half of all deaths occurred for for opioids. But cannabis is a much safer those between the ages of 45 to 64, acalternative. We have never seen a death cording to the OCHCA report. directly related to cannabis, but there are Mark Wallace, M.D., the pain manageopioid-related deaths. ment specialist chair and head of the What would you say to people who are University of California, San Diego Health’s considering using medical cannabis?

Center for Pain Medicine, has been There’s a growing geriatric population researching cannabis as an alternative to using medical cannabis and using it sucopioids for decades. Throughout Wallace’s cessfully. I would look at the risks and years of research, he believes that medical benefits, the harmful effects of medical cannabis is a safer alternative to opioids, cannabis are quite low; we base that on especially for seniors, although he added thousands of years of it being integrated that more research needs to be done. into society. In historical literature it’s refHere’s what Wallace told Picket Fence erenced for thousands of years. It would Media: be no different than prescribing any other Picket Fence Media: What type of remedication, other than it doesn’t come search have you done regarding medical from a pharmacist and insurance doesn’t cannabis and opioid use? pay for it, there’s also less quality control.

Dr. Wallace: I’m taking this approach of However, with those risks, cannabis isn’t patients on opioids, and I’m taking them for everybody, some people try it and it off of opioids, so I’ve been significantly doesn’t work, then they move on. • reducing their dosage. A lot of patients

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aging well

For the Young at Heart

Don't Ever Stop Dana Point resident, 72, follows national icon’s footsteps, one at a time

By Daniel Ritz ears ago, during a high-altitude fishing e cursion in the astern Sierras, Dana Point resident ussell err encountered an elderly mountaineer. uring that chance meeting, err as ed the older man what his secret to summiting the region’s abundant high peaks was. The man’s answer set a precedent for the remainder of err’s life ou never stop, you can absolutely never stop moving,” the man responded.

Now 72, the New Zealand-born Kerr has followed that mantra to a number of the highest pea s in the ierras, across Africa, and throughout his homeland of ew ealand Currently, err is embar ing on his largest, and lengthiest adventure yet as he attempts to reach t verest base camp, more than , feet in altitude, in honor of the th anniversary of ir dmund illary’s first summit ver eight days, err and his group, supported by a team of herpa’s and ya s to carry a ma ority of their gear, loo to reach base camp on uesday, ay after eight days of climbing si to eight hours a day espite being an e perienced climber

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and outdoorsman, Kerr said he never imagined underta ing such a challeng ing ourney I’ve done some serious climbing, but nothing li e this, err clarified through a smir , e plaining that the thing he e pects to be most challenging is the duration of the climb Kerr’s shared that he was talked into this adventure by his sister and brother in law only a month ago, while on a trip visiting them in New Zealand. The couple were the last ew ealander’s to manage the hospital built by illary in the valley illary’s history of assisting the na tive herpa of the region dates bac to the s when illary as ed a herpa, If there was anything I could do for the herpa people, what do you thin that would be?” o which, the herpa replied ur children have eyes, but they are blind and cannot see e would li e you to open their eyes by building a school in our village.” his touched illary’s heart and he immediately set about building the first school in hum ung e went on to build schools, hospitals and health clinics across the olu humbu region in the foothills of verest

Dana Point resident Russell Kerr, 72, is attempting to climb to Mt. Everest base camp. hoto Courtesy

err and the appro imately 3 other climbers ta ing part of the group climb honoring illary’s initial ascent will be continuing to support the hundreds of thousands of herpa that live along the valley where verest ascents begin err e plained that before, and after their e cursion, the group will be ta ing part in social and reconstruction efforts within the valley In , the valley region, including many of the schools built by illary and the imalayan rust, were ravaged by a catastrophic magnitude earthquake leading to towns being leveled and buried in landslides.

A former emergency relief wor er for orld ision, err has spent countless years abroad, and said the humanitarian aspects of this climb resonated with him illary is a national hero in ew ealand, err shared e’s on the five dollar note!”

Kerr shared that he remembers being seven years old when he first learned of illary’s ascent to verest, but more recently had a serendipitous moment of connection with him, the only man to set foot at both of the earth’s poles as well as it’s tallest peak.

A few years ago, while sitting on the balcony of his hotel in Auc land, ew Zealand, overlooking the pier, Kerr said

he looked down and saw a boat spreading something into the waters of the Auc land harbor below Those “something” were ashes. Sir illary’s hat was such a special moment of connection for me, err said, reflecting egarding his health, err said since he is more than years old, he had to be cleared by a orld pedition physi cian before embar ing on this ourney err said that he has been training for the hi e by spending e tensive time in the mountains in addition to his regular active lifestyle routine I have never had acute altitude sic ness before, err said, voicing his grati tude for the team of herpa’s and physi cians that will accompany the group y best friend ust died, years old, and this is the sort of thing that you do when you can, while you can, for those that would be there to do it with you, but didn’t have the good fortune or good health,” Kerr remarked.

I’ve lived a life full of challenges, and opportunities, err said, two days before leaving for Asia ore information can be read about imalayan rust at www himala yantrust org ore information can be found on orld peditions at www worlde peditions com •

aging well

For the Young at Heart

Karen Rottmann holds two of her pups, Noel and Gizmo. Photo: Emily Rasmussen

Furry Friends Local seniors find benefits in owning pets

By Emily Rasmussen hether you’re a dog person who can’t get enough of your pup’s adorably-dopey smile, or a cat person who enjoys a relaxing cuddle on the couch, many people find having a pet to be a rewarding and loving e perience Sandra Ackerman, one of the founders of San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter, has been volunteering with the shelter for 3 years Ac erman, a clear animal lover, said that she’s personally seen the benefits of owning a pet, in addition to seeing others adopt Ackerman said that she is extremely healthy at 77, slender with low cholesterol, and although she doesn’t wholly credit her animals to her health, they do give her a sense of purpose I have had many dogs over the years For a while I was taking in the older dogs that were not going to get adopted, so rather than having them sit in their cage for the rest of their life, which is depressing to the volunteers including me, I too them into my home and they gave me purpose, Ac erman said I’m a widow, I lost my husband 13 years ago, and dogs being in my house gave me a sense of purpose In a study on the use of animals in patients with dementia, demented subjects in the presence of a pet or animal had more social behaviors such as smiling or speaking, had reduction in the amount of behavioral disturbance and agitation, and held longer conversations, according to he enefit of ets and Animal Assisted herapy to the ealth of lder Individu als, a study by aul Cherniac and Ariella Cherniac San Juan Capistrano resident Karen Rottmann, 66, said that her three dogs ma e life better in every way

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Rottmann, who retired two years ago, said that although she has had her three dogs for years, she’s come to realize the importance of having their companionship now that she is at home more he said the canines reduce stress, give compan ionship, encourage e ercise and provide unconditional love, ottmann said ince retirement, the first time that Rottmann realized the importance of their company was when the first rainy season came around, when she couldn’t leave the house o, she got hoo ed on allmar movies, popcorn and snuggling with her three dogs “They aren’t just pets, they’re a part of the family, she said hey’re li e e tra ids but they don’t tal bac Ackerman said she encourages all ages to adopt a pet, but notes that she encourages seniors to adopt an older, calmer pet for companionship; not only because they are easier to handle and are often already trained, but also because if a senior adopts a young pet, they could live past the owner The feedback that Ackerman sees from people who adopt pets from the shelter brings her to tears o see a child wal out with their first animal, or a young couple, or a senior citizen coming in and coming out with a dog that’s going to keep them company, is ust so heartwarming, Ac erman said “People who adopt animals will see me there, so I’ll see them on the street or the store, and I’ll have people come up and iss my hand because they’re so over oyed at having an animal If you’re interested in adopting a pet, call the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal helter at or go to Avenida abricante, an Clemente •

aging well

For the Young at Heart

Table for One How single seniors cope with loneliness

By Tom Blake he effects of loneliness on single seniors is a growing concern.

Studies indicate that loneliness has been linked with a higher risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. A May 1 Cigna study stated, “There is growing evidence that loneliness can kill.”

Those are scary thoughts for single seniors, many of whom acknowledge being lonely. Last month (April 13), I wrote an article on how seniors combat loneliness.

Today, I share responses to that article from four aging-well, single seniors, who discuss how they cope with it.

Les Jones, 92, of San Clemente, said, “In 1944, while serving in the Navy on a destroyer escort during the Normandy invasion, a German U-boat torpedoed my ship. My lower back was damaged. I received a Purple Heart.

I have lived with that damaged back for 74 years.

This Memorial Day, I won’t be lonely; I’ve been invited to represent the United States at the WW II Memorial for the Presentation of Wreaths ceremony in Washington, D.C. Plus, I will be an honorary grand marshal in the National Memorial Day Parade. I also had this honor in 2017.

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If I had not been active and forced myself to keep moving through the pain, I’d be in a wheelchair now and would not be out interacting with people.

I was widowed two years ago, losing my best friend and wife of 49 years and nine months. I look at the empty chair where she sat in our living room and it tears my heart to pieces.

To combat loneliness, I surround myself with positive people and force myself to keep moving, although at times, the back pain is debilitating.

It’s important when you are single and alone, to have a good place to go where you know people. I go to the Dana Point Yacht Club for friendship.”

Stella, in her 70s, of Newport Beach, said, “Years ago, a man I met from Czechoslovakia told me: ‘Loneliness is an emotion. It can be overcome. You don’t have to be lonely. Do something else.

Distract yourself. Pick up the phone, take a walk, sing! Don’t choose loneliness.’”

In April, Stella left loneliness behind when she walked the famous El Camino Santiago de Compostela trail, which crosses northern Spain. She met many interesting people from all over the world.

Sandy Watts, in her late 60s, from

Sonoma County, lives alone in a small uninsulated cottage surrounded by grapevines.

She said, “The ‘disadvantage’ of being at peace with being alone is that I sometimes like my own company more than the prospect of dating ’ I try to find mi ed groups where I can get to know people of all ages and backgrounds naturally.

When I’ve attended functions and singles’ dances alone, I’ve pretended that someone was meeting me there. Standing alone is the first challenge ut, then it is good to ‘get over oneself’ – and think of the others, who are likely as uncomfortable as I. Learn about others, ask questions, invite someone to get a drink, or food, or whatever ort of li e finding one’s own ‘Cheers Bar.’” Cliff Gross, 65, a widower, of Laguna Hills, has a unique way of dealing with loneliness. Cliff is the volunteer commissioner of a 12-team NFL fantasy football league to which I belong. Most team owners have been in Cliff’s league for 25 years; we are all close friends.

Cliff hosts a pre-draft meeting, the actual 14-round draft and the post season banquet at his home. From early September to the Super Bowl, he is in contact

with the 11 other teams by email at least twice a week and often by telephone as well. On Sundays, team members can gather at his home to watch NFL games.

During the off-season, he organizes frequent “beach parties” at Hole-In-The Fence in Capistrano Beach for team members and their significant others e organizes camping trips to the Sierras.

And, almost every Friday afternoon, he and five or si of us play bocce ball at Doheny Beach.

“This is my passion,” Cliff said. “Our league members are the greatest group of guys on the planet. With them in my life, I don’t have time to be lonely.”

The Cigna survey also revealed: “Respondents who said they have more in-person social interaction on a daily basis reported being less lonely.”

That theory is reinforced by the comments from the single seniors included here. Frequent contact with friends and acquaintances is a critical step toward combatting loneliness. • Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@gmail.com.

By May Yacoob, Ph.D. or more than a decade I have watched yoga studios open and close. I have also encountered seniors who have told me they’ve hurt themselves at yoga or how they felt that yoga was for the young and athletic.

As a mature practitioner, I can vouch for the fact that yoga is much more than standing on your head or doing numerous repetitions of ‘up dog’ and ‘down dog.’

Recent studies have demonstrated that yoga helps with back pain and other health challenges such as heart disease, insomnia and arthritis. A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that yoga classes for the boomer-age group can be as safe and as effective as physical therapy in easing chronic pain.

As a result, more and more people of all ages are turning to yoga to enhance their health. For those new to the practice, however, it is essential to recognize that yoga classes vary widely in style— from vigorous and athletic to relaxing and restorative—and in substance—from “yoga flavored” exercise to “meditation in motion.”

Over the past 15 years, I’ve trained in numerous styles and philosophies of yoga, as well as how to teach yoga to more mature groups, specifically, to boomer-age students. One of the classes I lead—Yoga for Boomers—is hosted at St. Andrews by-the-Sea on Calle Frontera in San Clemente.

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Yoga for Boomers Strategies for a safe, effective practice

Photo: Eric Heinz

Even yoga instructors who are ade uately trained to teach able and fit students typically have a limited understanding of the important safety considerations that are vital when working with older adults. In an article about back pain, Robert Saper, a physician and director of Integrative Medicine at Boston Medical Center, noted on National Public

Radio, that the practice of yoga has to be adapted to the audience practicing it and must include breathing and relaxation. o find the appropriate class and instructor for seniors, here are a few tips to consider: • Talk to your care provider: This is particularly important if you have a serious health condition, so get guidance about

aging well

For the Young at Heart

any specific movement precautions or example, people with glaucoma may be advised to avoid head-down positions which increase pressure in the eye. Recognize, however, that many physicians don’t know much about yoga and might assume that you are planning to stand on your head. Be sure to let your physician know that you are interested in starting with a gentle class consisting of simple movements, stretches and breathing practice.

• Find a well-trained and experienced yoga teacher: Don’t be shy; ask your prospective instructors how long they have taught yoga and whether they have any training in working with special populations such as older adults or people with health challenges.

• Consider beginning with some individual sessions: Work one-on-one with a ualified yoga instructor who will tailor a practice specifically designed to address your health goals.

• Be sure to share with your instructor any new health issues that crop up. A good instructor will consult a physician to find out e actly what a diagnosis means and how it affects the practitioner’s yoga practice. • May Yacoob, Ph.D., is a yoga instructor in San Clemente and is a professor of health sciences at Chapman University. She is currently teaching a course in health and aging. Dr. Yacoob can be reached at www.drmayyacoob.com. Yoga for Boomers is held every Tuesday and Friday from 9:30-11:00 a.m. at St. Andrews by-the-Sea, located at 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente.

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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EDITORIAL

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

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 16, Issue 10. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly

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The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

Letters to the Editor COUNCILMEMBER PAM PATTERSON’S MEETING WITH TRUMP —Nancy Ferruzzo, San Juan Capistrano I read with total shock the words of Pam Patterson in her meeting with Donald Trump. In no way does this woman speak for the people of this city. We have a wonderful, diverse population, both tolerant and compassionate. To equate the immigrants from Mexico and Central America, desperate to escape poverty and lack of opportunity, with the terrorists of 9/11 borders on insanity. Fortunately, her term is up for re-election in November.

GOVERNOR SHORTCHANGING LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS —Patricia Bates, Laguna Niguel, 36th District State Senator In November 2016, California’s voters approved Proposition 51, a $7 billion bond measure to fund school construction. But so far, only $600 million in school bonds have been sold, and Governor Jerry Brown’s budget for this year proposes only slightly higher bond sales, even though the Coalition for Adequate School Housing has identified $3 billion in shovelready classroom construction projects.

New school facilities and classroom repairs are desperately needed all over the state, and South Orange County is no exception. Putting Prop. 51 funds to work now would fund nearly $74 million of school construction projects in the Senate district I represent, benefiting students attending Capistrano Unified and Saddleback Valley Unified schools.

Besides repairing and replacing dilapidated school facilities, Prop. 51 funds can also be spent for new projects to improve education, including building laboratories and specialized facilities for Career Technical Education facilities. These facilities are critically needed to improve our state’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs, giving our kids a chance to compete in the global marketplace.

Despite this backlog of need, the governor’s January budget proposal only funds school construction projects which were submitted before 2014. This means that every project submitted since 2014 will not even be considered until fall 2019. That is a five-year delay.

Now is the time to get moving. Interest rates are still low (though starting to creep upward), meaning the sooner money is dedicated to school construction projects, the more money will be available in future years for education spending. Let us not forget that school construction projects

also create solid paying jobs right where the work is being done.

If California’s state government can raise taxes and spend billions on distant horizon projects like high-speed rail, we can certainly invest in projects that will benefit local communities for a long time.

California’s students and their parents deserve better. As the governor and the Legislature work to enact a 2018-19 budget

by June 15, I will fight to make sure that promises made are promises kept.

OPEN LETTER TO SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CITY COUNCIL AND PLANNING COMMISSION —Barbara Szemenyei, San Juan Capistrano (My husband) Steve and I, and our townspeople that voted for you, helped to get you elected, gave you our trust to make decisions that are best for us all.

When you accepted public office of Council persons for San Juan Capistrano you accepted a fiduciary responsibility to those of us that elected you and to the rest of our town’s people. That means an individual in whom another has placed the utmost trust and confidence to manage and protect property and money (property taxes in this case). The relationship wherein one person has an obligation to act for another’s benefit.

On a science site called Phys.org there is an article dated February 2018, titled “Drought Deepens Dramatically in Southern California,” an excerpt reads: California is rapidly plunging back into drought, with severe conditions now existing in Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties—home to one-fourth of the state’s population.

Years ago, when I worked in our Capistrano school district, I followed one class from fi fth grade through graduation. I saw the drug damage and decided to resign and begin work on drug abuse prevention.

I started on a rant on drug damage like I have been now on water. I had a couple of people tell me they felt I was over reacting. I wasn’t about drugs, and I’m not over reacting about possible loss of water for all of us.

Right now you will be making a decision to add more traffic to your already traffic-stressed constituents. And right now you will be making a decision to add more people to your town on the possible brink of running out of water and having to move somewhere else for water. I have decided to publicly give you my trust to make the right choice for everyone you represent.

SPENT NUCLEAR FUEL NEEDS MORE ATTENTION —Roger Johnson, San Clemente How many people realize that with 1,773 tons of high-level uranium and plutonium, San Clemente is near a large percent of the nation’s stranded nuclear waste? The

Page 19

Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) officially lists San Clemente as the location of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) waste.

Does anyone think we are safe because it is 1.6 miles away? Each of the 123 canisters has the radiation potential to spread more fallout than the Chernobyl catastrophe over northern Europe in 1986.

Consider that the amount of uranium in the Hiroshima atomic bomb was the size of a grapefruit and the half-life of plutonium is 700 million years. Our thin canisters are warranted for 25 years, but how long will they last with internal temperatures of 500 degrees? The current plan would keep them here indefinitely. No progress is being made on temporary or permanent storage sites, and soon they might be too fragile to move.

The danger is not nuclear explosions but the release of radionuclides into the winds that could emit deadly alpha, beta and gamma radiation. Gamma can penetrate anything, including lead and steel and, of course, the roof of your car or home. Even the demo work over the next decade could be dangerous. Demo work at Hanford recently spread plutonium dust to homes and cars outside the facility and poisoned 42 workers.

If there were a plume, everyone must discard clothing and be hosed off before entering a home or building. No one in cars or homes can turn on heat or AC regardless of temperature. Radiation release could go on for months or years, and no insurance covers radioactive contamination.

In protest, 170 residents sent a petition to Edison asking them to hold a “Community Engagement” meeting in San Clemente to discuss serious external threats such as missiles, drones or truck bombs and to have medical experts discuss what to do if we are engulfed with radioactive fallout. Edison ignored the petition and does not want people talking about what might happen.

Also alarming is how few residents know or care about the biggest threat to the future of our area.

Editor’s note: An extended version of this letter can be found at www.thecapistranodispatch.com under the same headline.

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.

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GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

EDITOR’S PICK

At the Movies: ‘Let the Sunshine In’ Casts Shadows

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

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

Friday | 25 LAUGHS FOR LIFE COMEDY NIGHT 8 p.m. Laughs for Life Comedy Night, hosted by comedian Jim Taylor, is bringing laughs to The Coach House for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This fun and hilarious event features comedians Tony Calabrese, Vince Harper and Richard Daryl Osborn. Ticket purchases are open seating, with a two-item food or drink minimum. Ticket sales will benefit the Orange County Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Tickets are $25 and the doors open at 6 p.m. For more information, call 949.496.8930 or visit www.thecoachhouse. com. Buy tickets at www.afsp.org/LaughsForLifeOC. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

THE CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS ‘BYE BYE BIRDIE’ 8 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse brings Bye Bye Birdie, one of Broadway’s biggest hits, back into the spotlight. The show runs until June 3, with additional dates at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 26; 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 27; 8 p.m. on Friday, June 1; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 2; and the final showing at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 3. This show is about a struggling songwriter’s attempts to write one last hit before his star client is drafted into the army. This effervescent, toe-tapping production is a show both for the kid with you and the kid within you. Camino Real Playhouse. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. Tickets range from $22$58. For more information, visit www.caminorealplayhouse.org or call 949.493.4700.

Saturday | 26 LIVE MUSIC AT THE COACH HOUSE: OINGO BOINGO DANCE PARTY 8 p.m. Oingo Boingo Dance Party features former members of legendary new wave group Oingo Boingo, performing hits such as “Dead Man’s Party,” “Weird Science,” and “Just Another Day.” Original 80s and 90s era Oingo Boingo members Johnny “Vatos” Hernandez, Sam “Sluggo” Phipps, The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

The San Juan Capistrano Memorial Day Ceremony from last year. Photo: File

MONDAY, MAY 28: MEMORIAL DAY AT THE OLD MISSION GRAVEYARD 10 a.m. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Serra Post 3801 will be celebrating its annual Memorial Day ceremony at the Old Mission Graveyard. The Graveyard is off of Ortega Highway, between Avenida Los Cerritos and Rancho Viejo Road. Parking is available off Rancho Viejo Road in the nearby business complex. All veterans are welcome to join.

There are a lot of Capo Veterans from the Civil War through the Vietnam War who were interred there. The VFW has been hosting this ceremony for more 30 years. Contact Matt Gaffney at 949.412.0811 for more information.

Carl Graves, and occasionally Steve Bartek, John Avila and Doug Legacy, are joined by Brendan McCreary. Join the band for a night of dance and nostalgia, with this high-energy concert. Admission is $30. The Coach House. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

Friday | 01 LIVE MUSIC AT THE COACH HOUSE: ROBBY KRIEGER 8 p.m. Robby Krieger, the guitarist for the The Doors, is coming to The Coach House to play hits from the classic band that spawned Krieger’s career, in addition to his own songs with the Robby Krieger Band and special guest vocalist Waylon Krieger. Krieger penned hits such as “Light My Fire,” and after Jim Morrison’s death, Krieger continued onto solo ventures and featured as a guest in other bands, including the Butts Band and Blue Oyster Cult. Admission is $35. The Coach House. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

Saturday | 02 SHEA CENTER ANNUAL GALA 5:30-11 p.m. Put on your disco boots and strut on down to Montage Laguna Beach for The Shea Center’s 27th annual gala.

The evening theme celebrates the music

of Donna Summer, Andy Gibb, Gloria Gaynor, Barry White and more of your favorite disco stars. Commemorating 40 years of service to the disabled community, “Shea Night Fever” will feature tributes to riders served by Shea during the past 40 years. The event begins on the Montage Pacific Lawn with specialty cocktails, appetizers and entertainment. Guests will also enjoy a silent auction before strolling into the grand ballroom for a Montage dinner. After dinner, the evening will continue with the Fosheim Rider Support Fund, a live auction, and dancing to classic disco sounds. Montage Laguna Beach, 30801 Pacific Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach. For more information, go to www.sheacenter.org.

Sunday | 03 ST. BASIL HOEDOWN FOR HUNGER 12-6 p.m. The Charity Hoedown for Hunger is a fundraiser with proceeds going to feed hungry children and families in Orange County through two outreach nonprofits: Focus OC, who delivers food to families; and Family Assistance Ministries (FAM), who runs a daily food bank in San Clemente and a weekly food bank in San Juan Capistrano. The hoedown will feature live music from the Kelly Boyz and will have choice of ribs, hamburgers or hotdogs, and drink selections. St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, 27129 Calle Arroyo, Ste. 1803, San Juan Capistrano. For more information, go to www.hoedown4hunger. org or call 949.542.3445.

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Photo: Courtesy of Sundance Selects

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

n a weekend where every woman older than 50 went with their best girlfriends or sister to see the campy Book Club, French film legend Claire Denis’ newest movie, Let the Sunshine In, is still tugging along in theaters. Like with Book Club, the movie Sunshine centers on a female lead over a certain age. Except that unlike the mainstream female ensemble comedy, Denis’ film is more existential and basically a midlife crisis theme with fellow French film legend Juliette Binoche.

In modern Paris, Isabelle (Binoche) is 55 years old, divorced, having casual sex with multiple lovers, not really enjoying it, wants to be in love again, but doesn’t know how to instigate romance without sex. One of her lovers is a married man, a rude banker named Vincent (Xavier Beauvois); another is a 30-year-old pretentious stage actor (Nicolas Duvauchelle); and the third is a mysterious stranger she meets on a vacation (Paul Blain).

Let the Sunshine In is loosely based on Roland Barthes’ 1977 book Fragments: A Lover’s Discourse. In an industry that’s given us dozens of features like The Seven Year Itch (1955) or Chloe in the Afternoon (1972) where we see married men have crises over the fact that they still feel attracted to other women, it’s nice to see an older woman experience the same dilemma. But the problem is Isabelle isn’t a particularly likable person, and by the end of the film, we barely care about the outcome of her meltdown. Binoche is great, as she usually is, being one of the best actresses of her generation. Other than that, this is a lesser effort from Denis. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Cuba on the Go Local photographer brings the streets of Cuba to the San Juan Capistrano Library

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

Local photographer Judith Anderson’s exhibition ‘Cuba on the Go’ debuts at the San Juan Capistrano Library on Saturday, June 2. Photos: Courtesy of Judith Anderson

GUEST OPINION: Then & Now by Rhonda DeHaan

The Man on the Horse

M

eet Pablo Valenzuela. A man on a horse. I found nothing in my research to indicate he is a member of any of the town’s foremost families. We see nothing about him that is particularly notable. Yet, there is something about this photo that conveys so much about San Juan Capistrano with just the one image.

The year is 1934. The moment is captured in the plaza area in front of Mission San Juan Capistrano. A man sitting on a horse.

In the background is the Mission. Having undergone extensive restoration under The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

the guidance of Fr. John O’Sullivan, it had become a showplace and a popular stop for travelers. Yet the town had remained a quiet agricultural community neighbored by vast ranch lands.

And this man on a horse reminds us of those simpler times.

He seems content in a place undisturbed by the progressive chaos of larger, more modern cities. While we know there must have been cars and THEN & NOW businesses nearby, this

By Rhonda man and his horse draw DeHaan us instead to a peaceful place engrained with historic charm.

I was moved by this photo perhaps because I had just enjoyed a presentation

by Donna Friess in advance of the release of her newest book about San Juan Capistrano’s equine roots (Capistrano Trails,

ince traveling to Cuba from the United States became less difficult in 2016, many travel addicts have pounced on the opportunity to explore the culturally dense island.

International photographer and longtime San Juan Capistrano resident Judith Anderson was no exception, having gone to Cuba for the first time in July 2017 for 10 days. An adamant art lover who used to live in Jamaica with her husband years ago, Anderson was excited for the opportunity to visit Cuba. Her first stop was Havana.

“It’s a beautiful, colonial city—it’s an absolute charming city,” Anderson said.

Beginning Saturday, June 2, Anderson is presenting a photographic exhibition called “Cuba on the Go,” a compilation of photographs she’s taken, in addition to the work of other photographers and Cuban art. The exhibition will be featured at the San Juan Capistrano Library until July 31.

“It’s an overview of some Cuban artists, as well as our perspective as American photographers,” Anderson said. “I wanted to create a stroll through Cuban streets as far as eye work is concerned.”

Most of the photographs in the exhibit are Anderson’s work, in which she shot during her July 2017 trip to Cuba.

Pablo Valenzuela circa 1934. Photo: Courtesy of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society

which is due to be released toward the end of the summer). Her book was inspired by the many people whose efforts have helped preserve the heritage of San Juan Capistrano and promises to be a rousing tribute to our equestrian history.

While libraries grow with stories of our little village, there is always room for

Page 21

Throughout the 10-day trip, Anderson took many photos of the lively streets of Cuba, filled with classic cars and other colorful modes of transportation.

Many travelers have been captivated

by Cuba’s feeling of being able to step back in time, and Anderson appreciated the clash of past and present within her photography. Many other travel photographers have featured classic cars including old Chevy’s in their work, and although Anderson includes these gorgeous cars in her work as well, she wanted to express the other aspects to Cuba’s transportation life.

“I didn’t put just (the classic cars) because I wanted it to be richer,” Anderson said. “The other modes of transportation, such as the taxies, are a great way to get around in Havana and other cities, there’s an open air bike taxi and it’s a lot of fun.

(The riders) have to peddle up and down cobblestone streets which is very fun.”

In addition to Anderson, other featured art will include work from photographer Larry Shapiro and Cuban graphic designer Jonathan Tillman. There will also be a display of authenticated prints from the BFC, El Fondo Cubano de Bienes Culturales, produced by the National Museum of Belles Artes and their Collection of Cuban Art (Colección Arte Cubano) of Havana, Cuba.

“They have suffered, but they have also developed these amazing things on a higher level than we have here,” she said, however, “(the exhibition) is sweet and light, my goal is to not be heavy.”

Anderson said that she is already “chomping on the bit” to go back to Cuba.

In the meantime, readers can see the Cuba on the Go exhibit, with 24-28 pieces total, at the San Juan Capistrano Library, located at 31495 El Camino Real. CD

one more interesting anecdote or tidbit of information about San Juan Capistrano and what makes it unique and special. I hope you enjoy reading this column and learning about this town as much as I like writing about it. And if you know anything about Pablo Valenzuela, please share with me at editor@sjchistoricalsociety.com.

Rhonda deHaan enjoys learning about San Juan Capistrano and its history, sharing fun photographic finds along the way.

She is proud mother of two, a freelance writer and a member of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society Board of Directors. She is also serving her eighth year as member of the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com FOR RENT SAN JUAN EAST, AGE 55+ COMMUNITY 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath. $2700 per month.

Call 949.661.5274

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

HELP WANTED HOUSEKEEPERS FT/PT, HOUSEKEEPING RUNNERS, FRONT DESK CLERKS FT/PT, RESERVATION AGENTS PT Apply in person. Dana Point Marina Inn. 24800 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point. 949-496-1203 HOUSEKEEPING ATTENDANTS NEEDED IN LAGUNA BEACH!!!

Laguna Brisas Hotel in Laguna Beach is currently looking for Housekeeping Room Attendants to join our team at our Laguna Brisas property. Pay is $13.50 per house plus all the standard benefits (401K, vacations, holiday pay, etc.) As a Room Attendant, you’ll be responsible for cleaning and maintaining assigned guestrooms. Job Responsibilities: Cleaning assigned guestrooms in accordance with company standards; Replenishing amenities and supplies in assigned guestrooms; Stocking and maintaining Housekeeping cart; Greeting guests in hallways in a pleasant and friendly manner. Job Requirements: The minimum qualifications for the Room Attendant position are: E-verify; Ability to perform job functions with attention to detail, speed and accuracy; Ability to move perform frequent and repetitive movements, including bending and stooping; Must be able to lift, push, and pull a moderate weight frequently; Ability to scrub and scour surfaces, extending arms over head to perform cleaning tasks, and work in confined spaces; Basic ability to comprehend English language sufficient to understand information such as labels and instructions and basic guest requests; Previous cleaning experience preferred; Must have the ability to work a varied schedule that may include early morning, evening, night, and weekend shifts. An Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply at www.evolutionhospitality.com, or come to the hotel in person and ask for Roger Lujan (949-497-7272).

HELP WANTED-PICTURE FRAMER Mat cutting, picture fitting. Must be good at addition and measuring, clean in your work. Cortador de mats. Ensamblador de cuadros para posters.

Que conosca medidas del metro, que sea limpo en trajabo. Part Time or Full Time available. Medio tiempo complete. Available hours Monday-Friday between 7:00am-5:00pm. Pay based on experience + bonus. 949-388-8403

ROOM WANTED SEMI-RETIRED FEMALE PSYCHOLOGIST SEEKING AFFORDABLE QUIET ROOM WITH SHARED BATH TO RENT ($500 MONTH).

If needed can assist with errands, pet sitting and walking, doctor’s appointments & psychological support. Excellent references. Please call Joanne at 949-632-7312.

The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

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

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

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

Page 22

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SJC LIVING

Photo: File

GUEST OPINION: Dirt Therapy by Marianne Taylor

Enjoying Life’s Simple Pleasures: Friends, Family, Graciousness

V

isiting a friend recently I was introduced to a Scandinavian way of life called hygge (pronounced “HUE-gah”). Hygge is a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary as cozy, charming or special. My usual visit wasn’t anything out of the ordinary, just a convivial greeting from a friend, being welcomed with a hot cup of herbal tea in a cozy sunroom with the aromatic scent of lavender and bergamot surrounding me.

The word hygge comes from a Norwegian word meaning “well-being.” But it is also speculated that hygge might originate from the word hug. Hug comes from the 1560s word hugge, which means “to

DIRT THERAPY

By Marrianne Taylor

embrace.”

For those not familiar, ‘hygge’ refers to the Danish lifestyle craze that’s seen something of an international hysteria of late, according to “What is hygge? How the Danish lifestyle trend became a Word of the Year” published in the Independent. A concept roughly described as a feeling of comfort and contentment, as well as indulging in all the good things and people in your DIRT THERAPY

By Marrianne life, the article reads. It’s Taylor one often connected to the idea that the Danes are the happiest people in the world, and that it’s, “hygge”

that provides the secret to their success, the article said.

The craze has focused largely on the idea of making the ordinary special, or meaningful, through ritualizing everyday activities such as making a cup of coffee or having dinner; that means putting technology to one side, and embracing simple practices such as lighting candles, purchasing flowers, or brewing real tea in china cups. It also boasts intimate settings and spaces either indoors or outside, simple decor, and plenty of comfort food.

It is easy to cultivate a sense of peace where ever you are.

It’s easy to bring hygge to your everyday life. Here are ideas below to start your simplified routine.

Aromatherapy diffusers: You can create a personalized set-up using essential oils.

These oils have a calming effect on the body: • Lavender • Rose • Vetiver • Ylang Ylang • Bergamot • Chamomile • Frankincense Look for companies that source unsprayed or certified organic ingredients or that maintain membership in the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy to ensure high quality.

Soft Lighting: Indirect natural lighting from windows creates a warm and inviting setting to gather or meditate. Bright lights, glare and harsh fluorescent will squash a good mood. Use of fireplace, candles or low lights will produce room ambiance and cozy comfort.

Toasty Beverage: A hot cup of tea, coffee or hot cocoa is a delight no matter what season. It is instant comfort to the senses and opens up the opportunity for conversation or preparation for a quiet read.

Clothing: Anything cotton or knitted.

Natural fibers are soft to the skin creating a hug feeling when worn. Sweatpants, knitted socks, or cotton throw around the shoulders provide the best comfort.

Food: Soups, warm baked goods or anything homemade produce warm feelings of goodwill, connectedness and love.

Outside room: Backyards are an ideal place to practice the art of hygge. Create an outdoor setting centered around patio furniture, container plantings and a grill or portable fireplace for instant results of a cozy room.

Have fun getting hygge with it!

Marianne Taylor, of San Juan Capistrano, is the founder and executive director of Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens, a 501(c)(3) teaching gardening and life skills as a way of empowering, engaging and connecting people. Goin Native focuses on educating local families, special needs adults, seniors, at-risk youth and members of the military. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

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

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

Tom’s Friend Intends To Be the Caregiver for His Mother

O

ften, as seniors age, a new and unexpected challenge can arise: caregiving. It could be for a spouse, significant other, sibling or an elderly parent.

Last week, Mick, a friend of mine for 43 years, emailed asking for advice. Mick and I worked together at the Victoria Station restaurant chain in the 1970s.

Mick wrote, “This winter, Emma, my 90-year-old mother, tripped and fell in the chicken house at her farm in West Bend, Wisconsin and suffered a concussion. That fall—and one too many cold winters—finally changed her mind about living alone. She has decided to take me up on my longstanding offer to move to Texas to be near me.

I decided my mother deserved a better fate than to be parked in an ON LIFE AND institutional setting. I LOVE AFTER 50 bought a house that is big

By Tom Blake enough and has the right floor plan to permit us to be housemates, but we still have a healthy measure of separation and privacy. There is enough room to permit live-in help.

I am apprehensive. She and I are fiercely independent and have each lived alone for many years. But, we have committed to give this a try.

I have a new, wonderful lady named Mary Ann, age 61, in my life who lives a short drive away. So, I will get time away from Emma. Mary Ann is totally on board

Photo: Courtesy of Phyllis Girvetz

FROM THE ARCHIVES Pictured is San Juan Capistrano circa 1920.

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.

with Emma moving in with me.

The challenges to this arrangement are obvious. My immediate concerns are: 1. Her loneliness. Emma will be leaving behind her social network and initially will be totally dependent on me for conversation and emotional support. How do I help her develop a cadre of new buddies here to ease that burden?

2. Her isolation. My mother has agreed to give up her car and will not be driving, but I want her to get out and enjoy all that this area has to offer. Which transportation alternatives are safe and reliable?

3. My sadness. I think of my mother as a strong, vibrant woman with a bit of a temper and a lot of spunk. She still shovels snow and chops her own firewood.

But as she ages, she is beginning to show signs of frailty and loss of cognitive skills.

This week, she walked into a glass partition at her Wisconsin bank, fell and severely broke her leg. Fortunately, no hip replacement is needed, but she will have a rod and screws installed to put her femur back together.

How do I prepare myself to be strong but remain considerate and loving?”

I asked my eNewsletter subscribers for their opinions. Six responses follow:

The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

TOM’S COMMENT TO MICK It will be interesting to hear if Emma’s recent fall will affect your decision of having her move from another state to be with you.

She will likely be in a wheelchair or walker for a couple of months or more, which will add a strain on you and will complicate her getting out and making friends.

Try to keep in mind the importance of you maintaining your health so you can focus on hers. Knowing you, you will handle the situation with grace and dignity.

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 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

BY MYLES MELLOR

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Delilah. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente/ Dana Point Animal Shelter

systems provide door-to-door service for the elderly at a very reasonable price.”

Sudoku

Pet of the Week: Delilah

L

Joyce emailed, “I am 81 and still work as a ‘caregiver/companion’ to clients over 90.

I take them shopping, to doctor and dentist appointments; sometimes I shop for them.”

Arlene, “I think Mick is setting himself up for major stress by having his mom live by him. Care facilities are equipped to handle frail, elderly people. The strain on one’s health takes its toll on caregivers. I’ve seen it many times. Although an admirable endeavor, I think he needs to rethink his choices.”

Susan, “Mick may need some logistical and emotional support. It sounds like his new partner, Mary Ann, can offer some of that. He may also need to contact a caregiver support agency that can advise him.”

Joanie, “Mick can hire someone to come in two or three days a week to be a companion and to take her shopping. He is a good son!”

Kaitte, “With Emma’s recent fall, everything could change for Mick. He could hire a live-in for her in Wisconsin. Maybe a family member, even a grandchild? Or, a church friend?

Having been a caretaker, I know it’s best to keep the elderly in their own home if possible.”

Julie wrote, “Some public transportation

ooking for a mild-mannered kitty who can appreciate lap time and a good cuddle? Pretty little Delilah may be just the cat for you. She is a quiet, four- year-old calico ready to start her next chapter in life. Delilah is declawed in the front and back claws and would do best as the only pet in the household.

If you would like to know more about Delilah, please call the San Clemente/ Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with her at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. CD

Solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares.

To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9.

Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium

Page 25

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Laying It Down Saddleback Valley Christian boys volleyball comes together in postseason run

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

G

etting to CIF-SS finals is now old hat for the Saddleback Valley Christian boys volleyball team, but Warriors coach Ryan Van Rensselaer said, “This has by far been the hardest year.”

The journey may have been harder, but the destination was still the same.

Saddleback Valley Christian dropped a tough first set but stormed back to control and win the next three to defeat Quartz Hill, 25-27, 25-20, 25-16, 25-15, in a CIF-SS Division 2 semifinal on Wednesday, May 16 at Saddleback Valley Christian School.

With the win, the Warriors advanced to their fi fth CIF-SS title game, all in the last six seasons, and took on top-seeded Orange Lutheran in the Division 2 final on Saturday, May 19 at Cerritos College in Norwalk.

“We have a team scripture,” Van Rensselaer said, “which is ‘there is no greater love than to lay down your life for your friend.’ That’s what we talk about. … Volleyball is our platform to do that right now.

So that’s really the truth of our success.

All these guys are the kind of guys you’d want at your back when you’re in battle.”

SVC won back-to-back Division 5 titles in 2013 and 2014 and back-to-back Division 4 titles in 2015 and 2015 before being bumped up to Division 1 last season. A younger group of Warriors was knocked off in the

San Juan Preps Roundup

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

For in-game updates, news and more for all San Juan Capistrano high school sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCSports.

St. Margaret’s Sun Wins Division 4 High Jump Junior Emily Sun set a personal record and claimed the CIF-SS Division 4 high jump title at the CIF-SS Finals on Saturday,

The Capistrano Dispatch May 25–June 7, 2018

Saddleback Valley Christian boys volleyball and senior captain Bryce Laxson (center) advanced to their fifth CIF-SS championship game, all in the last six seasons, and to the CIF Southern California Regional semifinals in another playoff run. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

first round last year, but they’ve regrouped in their Division 2 run this season.

Van Rensselaer said the group had a lot of freshmen and only one club player among its upperclassmen, but over the last eight matches, SVC has gelled together in another run to the finals.

“There’s a couple of unique variables,” Van Rensselaer said, “reeling it all in and getting them unified, that’s the battle. I didn’t think we’d get this far, to be honest.

I knew we were capable, but with all those pieces coming together, I thought okay, maybe we can do this.”

In the Division 2 title game, Saddleback Valley Christian fought through its struggles but was unable to find its rhythm until late as Orange Lutheran took

advantage to win in a sweep, 25-20, 25-14, 27-15.

“All throughout the playoffs, my top five hitters were hitting between .300 and .500,” Van Rensselaer said, “doing phenomenal, playing their best volleyball.

All of our hitters today were in the negative except for George and Gabe (Dyer).

I feel like Lakewood (the third seed in the second round) and Quartz Hill (in the semifinals) were as good as that team (Orange Lutheran), and we just didn’t show up today.”

Despite the final result, SVC is now into a second generation of boys volleyball success that has made the Warriors a program with championship expectations.

“Such an incredible accomplishment,”

Van Rensselaer said. “That’s the fun part.

You’re freshmen or you’re juniors and you’re back in the final. What an incredible gift for you to do that and compete at this young of an age. They’re excited.”

By advancing to the final, SVC qualified for the CIF Southern California Regional Division 2 playoffs.

The Warriors went on the road for the first round and took down San Gabriel Academy in four sets, 25-17, 19-25, 25-19, 25-12. SVC hosted Classical Academy in the second round on Thursday, May 24, but results were not available at press time.

If SVC advanced, the Warriors would play the Orange Lutheran-Cathedral Catholic winner on Saturday in the Regional Final. CD

May 19 at El Camino College in Torrance.

Sun improved on her own school record with a jump of five feet, three inches to claim St. Margaret’s first individual CIF-SS gold since 2014.

Sun will be seeded sixth at CIF-SS Masters on Saturday, May 26 at El Camino College. The top seven finishers advance to the state meet.

Masters on Saturday, May 26.

Grover took third place in both the 1,600 and 3,200 and will be seeded 13th in both at Masters. He ran a time of 4:15.63 in the 1,600 and 9:14.98 in the 3,200.

22. San Juan Hills took the lead in the top of the seventh, but Schurr walked off with the win.

JSerra’s Stephens, Grover Qualify for Masters Senior Kelley Stephens took silver in the 200-meter and sophomore Anthony Grover set personal records in the 1,600-meter and 3,200-meter at the CIF-SS Division 3 Finals on Saturday, May 19 at El Camino College in Torrance.

Stephens ran a time of 21.85 seconds and will be seeded third overall at CIF-SS

San Juan Hills Softball Falls in Second Round Fresh off their first softball league title in school history, the Stallions defeated Sultana, 5-4, at home in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 4 playoffs on Thursday, May 17.

Big defensive plays in the top of the fi fth inning gave San Juan Hills offensive momentum in the bottom of the fi fth for a 5-1 lead that carried to the win.

The Stallions travelled to Schurr of Montebello in the second round but dropped a tight one, 3-2, on Tuesday, May

Page 26

San Juan Hills Boys Tennis Drops Tiebreaker After being forced to play a wild card match and on the road in the first round, the top-seeded Stallions hosted Arroyo of El Monte in the second round.

San Juan Hills led the match 7-5 before rain suspended the match on Friday, May 11. The Stallions lost momentum when the match restarted on Saturday, May 12, and Arroyo tied the match, 9-9, and won the tiebreaker by only one game, 77-76.

San Juan Hills had only won seven matches over the previous two seasons, but the Stallions won 17 matches and finished 4-4 in the league this season.

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