November 22, 2019

INSIDE: 2019 Holiday Happenings & Gift Guide SPECIAL SECTION

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

NOVEMBER 22-DECEMBER 12, 2019 • VOLUME 17, ISSUE 22

Water Supply Community Gets Look at Water Reservoir E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6

The Santa Margarita Water District recently gave a tour of construction at the Trampas Canyon Reservoir and Dam, which will store recycled water. Photo: Collin Breaux

Capistrano Lights at the Mission EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

Turkey Trot on the Ranch

EYE ON RMV/PAGE 7

thecapistranodispatch.com

JSerra Water Polo Wins First CIF-SS Title SPORTS/PAGE 22

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week Mission to Hold Capistrano Lights Event THE LATEST: Mission San Juan Capistrano is holding Capistrano Lights, a nightly holiday lighting program, in December and January. There will be a ticketed opening night on Saturday, Dec. 7.

“This is our opportunity to celebrate the Mission’s place as the most historic faith tradition place in Orange County,” Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence Adams said.

“Opening night features a lot of public programming that resonates and brings people of all faith traditions hopefully closer.”

The historic grounds will be decorated, and there will be Christmas trees from community groups and music for guests to enjoy opening night. Capistrano Lights continues through Monday, Jan. 6.

“We have a fabulous Santa Claus,” Adams said. “He’ll be coming on several different days during December.”

Mrs. Claus will also be there to visit with kids. After people visit the Mission, they can explore the rest of downtown San Juan Capistrano, which Adams said is “on a renaissance and revival of investment and stewardship and preservation.”

Visit CapistranoLights.com for information on tickets, times, and other program aspects.—Collin Breaux

Caltrans Prepares to Launch Environmental Studies for Toll Road THE LATEST: The city of San Clemente hosted a town hall forum on Wednesday, Nov. 13, to discuss traffic relief in South Orange County. The panel of participants included representatives from California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA), as well as local elected state officials Sen. Patricia Bates and Assemblymember Bill Brough.

The initial stages of the environmental process to study the proposed 241 Toll Road extensions through San Clemente and parts of San Juan Capistrano are officially underway, as Caltrans last week began to accept public comment and review of the South County Traffic Relief Effort.

scoping@sctre.org or in person at a public meetings on Dec. 4 at the Ocean Institute.

Comments can also be mailed directly to Caltrans. Both public scoping meetings are in an open-house format and will run from 5-8 p.m. Information about the SCTRE is available at sctre.org. —Shawn Raymundo and Lillian Boyd The initial stages of the environmental process to study the proposed 241 Toll Road extensions are officially underway. Photo: File

“The purpose of this town hall is to provide information. The Toll Road is a community issue that is paramount,” said acting Mayor Dan Bane, who moderated the panel. “As a council, we’ve been working on a lot of issues.”

On Friday, Nov. 8, Caltrans, in coordination with the Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency (F/ETCA)—part of the TCA—submitted the Notice of Preparation/ Notice of Intent and announced a pair of public scoping meetings for Nov. 20 and Dec. 4.

The Relief Effort, which includes a series of proposed routes—some of which intend to extend the 241 through San Clemente and connect to the I-5 Freeway while another is to extend Crown Valley Parkway to the 241—are intended to “improve north-south regional mobility in South Orange County and accommodate regional travel demand,” according to Caltrans.

The proposed options that could potentially impact San Clemente and San Juan include alternatives 13, 14, 17, 21, 22 and 23.

Alternative 13 would have the 241 extension come down through San Juan and cut west to connect to the I-5.

Alternative 17 would similarly have the 241 travel down through San Juan and continue south into San Clemente, connecting to the I-5 through Shorecliffs.

Alternative 14 is proposed to extend down near the western border of Rancho Mission Viejo, cross over La Pata and join the freeway by Avenida Pico.

Alternative 21 comprises two separate roadway segments, with the first one extending Los Patrones Parkway from Cow Camp Road to Avenida La Pata. “The second segment would provide a median-to-median, high-occupancy toll (HOT) lane connector from SR 73 to I-5,” according to Relief Effort.

Alternative 22, a road alignment plan that Orange County Board Supervisor and Chairperson Lisa Bartlett proposed, would connect the new Los Patrones Parkway from Cow Camp Road to Avenida La Pata, running along the east side of the Prima Deschecha Landfill.

Alternative 23, which has a few potential components to it, would extend the managed lanes—High Occupancy Toll lanes and High Occupancy Vehicle lanes—on the I-5, from Pico to the Basilone Road interchange.

WHAT’S NEXT: Members of the public can submit comments to Caltrans via email at

The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

School Officials, Students Celebrate Renovations THE LATEST: Students at Harold Ambuehl Elementary School and officials with Capistrano Unified School District celebrated renovations at the school with a ribboncutting on Friday, Nov. 15.

Work included upgrades to the play area, drinking fountains, restrooms and library.

The library in particular is being turned into what’s called an Innovation Center, with open room for kids to interact, read and engage in other activities.

Superintendent Kirsten Vital called the school “beautiful” and said students were likely surprised when they noticed the changes when they came back to school for the new school year.

“Our board of trustees approved $5.7 million from the sale of the Whispering Hills and Mello-Roos bond to fund this work, and it’s made such a difference,” Vital said.

The upgrades were completed over the summer and addressed the school’s fire safety systems by installed automated door systems in case of lockdowns and fires, according to a news release from the district. The school previously had heavy fire doors that would have to be closed manually to isolate fires—CB

Students Learn About Medical Use of Virtual and Augmented Reality THE LATEST: Students at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School learned about the medical uses of virtual and augmented reality when Dr. Robert Louis made a recent appearance during a psychology class at the school.

Louis, the Empower360 endowed chair in skull base and minimally invasive neurosurgery, also is the program advisor for the Skull Base and Pituitary Tumor Program at the Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute at Hoag Hospital.

Louis cited addiction, mental illness and surgical planning as areas in which virtual and augmented reality can be used and applied.

“It can be used to change a channel in your brain from an unhealthy perception or thought pattern to a healthier one,” Louis said.

Virtual reality can mimic environments for patients undergoing exposure therapy to deal with phobias or other matters in a safe way—for instance, mimicking tall heights for patients with a phobia of heights.

Page 3

Virtual reality has also been used to decrease physically abusive behavior in men, said Louis, who cited a study from Spain.

“They did a virtual switch. They took a video of them being abusive, then reversed the situation and in VR put the men in the situation of being the woman and had to physically deal with being abused and not being able to get out of the situation,” Louis said. “Something like 60 or 70 percent of those men became reformed and no longer abusive as a result of that.”—CB

Surf & Turf Therapy Gets Boost THE LATEST: Surf & Turf Therapy, which uses equine and surf therapy to address strength deficits and other physical issues, got a boost during a fundraiser on Thursday, Nov. 14.

The local nonprofit organization held a fundraising event at Orange County Polo Club that featured music, food, and polo matches and brought out patients and supporters. The equine therapy barn is based in San Juan Capistrano, and the surfing is mostly done in Dana Point.

“We were founded in September 2018.

We started just with the surf side of the program,” said Jillian Stewart, founder and executive director. “We have speech, physical, and occupational therapists on staff using both of these kind of more non-traditional approaches to still work on functional, day-to-day goals.”

Patients learn to use both sides of their bodies, sit upright, and language skills.

The therapy “is geared towards anyone and everyone,” said Stewart, a physical therapist. “My youngest is a 2-year-old with cerebral palsy and my oldest is an 84-year-old struggling with some memory loss. I have a wide range of ages and disabilities—cerebral palsy, stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, Down syndrome, autism.”

Suzan Koo-Mahathirath said Surf & Turf has helped her son, Keilan Mahathirath, who turns 13 in December, with core strengthening and motor planning. KooMahathirath likes how Stewart addresses all needs and works with children.

“We have been doing it since the summer, so it hasn’t been too long, but in the short amount of time he has been with Surf & Turf and specifically working with Jillian, he’s improved a great deal,” KooMahathirath said. “He enjoys it. He loves it. He loves the social aspect of it. Every time he goes to a session, there’s new volunteers, and it’s engaging for him to interact with all of these new individuals and it helps him want to do better and perform for the people that are volunteering.”

The event at Orange County Polo Club—a big supporter of Surf & Turf—was the first formal fundraiser for the nonprofit. For more information, visit surfandturftherapy.org.—CB thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Nonprofits Receive Grants from Bank of America Human Options and the J. F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center, nonprofit organizations that assist people in need, have been named as the 2019 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders award winners for Orange County, a news release stated.

The nonprofits each receive a $200,000 grant, a year of leadership training for the executive director and an emerging leader, and the opportunity to access capital to expand their impact.

“What sets this year’s Neighborhood Builders apart is that both Human Options and the Shea Center empower leadership at all levels of their organizations,” Allen Staff, Orange County market president for Bank of America, said in the release. “The impact that these nonprofits have on meeting specific needs in our community grows exponentially because of their leadership culture that is not dependent on one person.”

The grant will allow Human Options to increase access to safe and stable housing for domestic violence victims.

“We are honored to be the recipient of the Neighborhood Builder Award and to be part of a community of transformational organizations,” said Human Options Chief Executive Officer Maricela Rios-Faust. “This partnership makes it possible to respond to the complex needs of individuals and communities impacted by relationship violence.”

The Shea Center, a therapeutic equestrian center serving people with disabilities, will use the grant to sustain and grow its programs.

“For 41 years, the Shea Center has improved the lives of people with disabilities,” said Shea Center Executive Director Dana Butler-Moburg. “Each day, victories happen for our clients, such as that first step, a first word spoken, a smile and eye contact, or even a first hug. The generosity of our friends at Bank of America is overwhelming.

We are truly grateful for the support that transforms the lives of those we serve.”

Over the past 15 years, Bank of America has invested $240 million in 49 communities through Neighborhood Builders, partnering with more than 1,000 nonprofits, and helping more than 2,000 nonprofit leaders strengthen their leadership skills, according to the release.

San Juan Garden Club Beautifies ‘La Sala’ Courtyard at Library The San Juan Capistrano Garden Club has been busy beautifying the courtyard at the San Juan Capistrano Library.

The project, over a span of five years,

FRIDAY, NOV. 22 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, NOV. 26 Cultural Heritage Commission Meeting 4:30 p.m. The city’s Cultural Heritage Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Visit SanJuanCapistrano.org for more information.

Human Options and the J. F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center, nonprofits that assist people in need, have been named as the 2019 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders award winners for Orange County.

From left: Susan Chaney Purel, Agnes McGlone Swanson, Shari Battle, Dana Butler-Moburg, Allen Staff, Lisa Sims, Patty Conover and Greg Talbott. Photo: Bank of America

enhanced features of the “La Sala” courtyard, including around the pool. The club put up pots near the pool, planted new trees and other vegetation in the courtyard and put up a bench.

Club members and city employees worked together on the beautification. For more information, go to sanjuancapistranogardenclub.com or email gardenclubofsjc@gmail.com.

Ms. Fiesta and Señor San Juan Support Veterans Ms. Fiesta and Señor San Juan have recently been busy helping veteran causes and raising awareness of the struggles veterans face.

James Kelly, with The James Kelly Band, recently traveled to Chattanooga, Tenn., to play music for Freedom Sings USA, which uses music to help veterans heal from ailments. They were in Tennessee to support Van Booth, who is walking across the country to raise awareness about veteran suicide.

James and Marie Kelly, a married couple, were named Ms. Fiesta and Señor San Juan for the 2020 Fiesta de Las Golondrinas season by the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association.

Verdugo Street Construction Continues Construction continues on Verdugo Street in Downtown San Juan Capistrano.

In an email to The Capistrano Dispatch on Wednesday, Nov. 13, city officials said the city’s contractor, C.S. Legacy, has removed catch basins and storm drain pipes and installed new storm drain pipes at the

The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

west end of Verdugo Street.

“Construction activity over the past three weeks has included removal of the southerly sidewalk and sections of street pavement (i.e., near the Verdugo Street cul-de-sac and Regency Theatres),” the email said.

Construction of the new catch basins, underground electrical conduits, irrigation lines, storm drain lines, and removal of existing streets lights were underway at the time the email was sent.

Construction for the beautification project began in October, at which time Verdugo Street from Camino Capistrano to the train depot plaza was closed to vehicular traffic.

The street will remain closed for approximately four to five months, and the project is anticipated to be complete in spring 2020.

“This long-awaited capital improvement project will provide wider sidewalks, decorative brick pavers, enhanced lighting, landscaping and a more pedestrian-friendly gateway to the downtown,” the email from the city said.

City staff is said to be actively coordinating with the business community to mitigate potential impacts to customers.

Businesses in the area remain open and still have patrons coming in, and business owners are encouraging people to still come out. The nearby Los Rios Historic District is also still active. Dennie Hahn, owner of The Cottage Gallery, said in an email to The Capistrano Dispatch there is a “critical need for the community to still come out and shop and dine regardless of the construction.”

“The holiday season plays a huge part in our success or failure as a business,” Hahn said. “The fact that this construction is happening at a critical time of the year is

Page 4

TUESDAY, DEC. 3 City Council, Housing Authority, and Successor Agency Meeting 5 p.m. The city’s governing body will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Visit SanJuanCapistrano.org for more information.

MONDAY, DEC. 9 Youth Advisory Board Meeting 5:29 p.m. The city’s Youth Advisory Board will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Visit SanJuanCapistrano.org for more information.

TUESDAY, DEC. 10 Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. The city’s Planning Commission will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Visit SanJuanCapistrano.org for more information.

THURSDAY, DEC. 12 Design Review Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. The city’s Design Review Committee will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Visit SanJuanCapistrano.org for more information.

FRIDAY, DEC. 13 The next edition of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

quite a burden.”

For more information on the project, visit the city website at sanjuancapistrano.org.

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

EYE ON SJC

The Santa Margarita Water District gave a tour of the Trampas Canyon Water Reservoir and Dam on Saturday, Nov. 16. Construction is expected to be finished by 2020. Photo: Collin Breaux

Reservoir Project Aims to Store Recycled Water

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

reservoir and water dam project aiming to store recycled water is on track, according to water management officials.

The Santa Margarita Water District gave a tour of the Trampas Canyon Reservoir and Dam on Saturday, Nov. 16.

Construction began in January 2018 and is expected to finish by 2020.

The dam and reservoir are south of Ortega Highway on land acquired from Rancho Mission Viejo. The reservoir is intended to hold 1.6 billion gallons of recycled water. The City of San Juan Capistrano is actively engaged in a process to transfer the city’s water and sewer utility systems to the SMWD. An annexation agreement with SMWD is anticipated to be brought to the San Juan Capistrano City Council in early 2020, with the actual annexation planned for spring 2020.

“This reservoir will allow us to store that water and utilize it in the summer, when right now we’re short recycled water and as development increases,” said Don Bunts, deputy general manager

for the SMWD. “If we get severed from Northern California and the Colorado River, we will have drinking water available for all the customers.”

In the winter, when recycled water is produced, it normally goes out to the ocean, because there is no way to store it.

The reservoir was originally built in the early 1970s for sand mining. “Because this dam was here, we started working with the ranch to determine where could we put this seasonal storage reservoir, because we knew we needed one,” Bunts said. “We were weighing the pros and cons of utilizing this site.”

The site south of Ortega Highway was more attractive than other options since it had already been used, meaning the SMWD doesn’t have to build on an unused, pristine, all-natural site.

Trip attendees were driven to different areas of the dam and reservoir, had to wear hard hats and safety vests, and were provided water by the SMWD. People took pictures of themselves at the site throughout the trip. The buses took off from the SMWD building on Antonio Parkway in Rancho Santa Margarita, one of the areas the SMWD serves.

The 177-acre site south of Ortega Highway looks like a desert scene you’d see in a movie. The elevation is steep. Measurement statistics include being 3,000 feet long from the east dam to the west side of the reservoir, the face of the dam being 216 feet high, and the reservoir being able to fill the Rose Bowl nearly 20 times.

Currently, there are no plans for recreational use of the Trampas Canyon Dam and Reservoir, SMWD Public Information

The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

Manager Nicole Stanfield said during a question-and-answer session, before the buses took attendees to the different spots.

The reservoir won’t be continually filled like a lake, but instead have water levels that go up and down as needed, with officials comparing it to a bathtub. It will be the biggest surface water reservoir in South Orange County once finished.

The project is intended to increase the amount of recycled water the SMWD uses, with the goal to have 100 % recycling with wastewater.

“That way, we’re using every drop more than once, hopefully more than twice,” Bunts said. “It is so expensive and precious to bring in, so we’re trying to utilize that multiple times.”

Long-term payoffs for the project include sustainability, reliability, and cost savings, Bunts said. Costs for imported water are going up. Contractors are reportedly working two 10-hour shifts a day on the project. Construction costs are $93 million. The Board of Directors of SMWD authorized the construction of the project in November 2017. Funding sources for the project include a grant and a lowinterest loan.

Most of the water “will come from the Chiquita wastewater treatment plant, which is about seven miles from here,” Jeff McDonnell, engineering construction manager, said during a question-andanswer session at the dam. “That is all the treated wastewater that goes through that plant and will be delivered to this location and stored at this location.”

The soil material comes from a borrow

Page 6

site nearby. There are also about a “million cubic yards of sand and gravel” imported.

A perimeter security fence will be around the entire site to keep animals and the general public out.

“All during construction, when we’re doing the excavation in the borrow pit areas, we have a paleontologist on site to make sure we’re not finding any fossils or things of that sort,” Bunts said. “We have biologists on site so that we’re not having any kind of impacts beyond what we’re allowed to and beyond what the environmental impact report allows us to touch.”

Rocks have been put up at the site to protect against permanent erosion.

Ventura County resident Lori Constan attended the tour, because she was curious about the project and is concerned about water availability. She brought along her young nephew, so he could see the site and be mindful of water usage.

“It’s a valuable resource, and it’s going to be an issue. It is an issue,” Constan said.

“It’s impressive, everything I’ve read so far about how Orange County is managing these plants and their water issue. It’s really forward thinking.”

Constan is a fan of the Trampas Canyon Reservoir and Dam, particularly since it focuses on recycled water.

“That is brilliant. We don’t necessarily need to be transporting water from other states just so we can water our lawns and plants, and potentially drink,” Constan said. “I think I’m more of a proponent of a reservoir as opposed to desalination. I’m still needing to learn more about both, but I think I’m leaning more towards this way.” CD thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON RMV

NEWS & HAPPENINGS AT THE RANCH

Events at The Ranch

NOV. 22

Hilltop Bar Night & Swirl. Sniff. Sip.

5-9 p.m. The spacious event bar at The Hilltop Club is open every Friday evening, so come grab a drink, then stay to hang out with good friends and close neighbors. This is a Ranch-residentonly event. 65 Esencia Drive, Rancho Mission Viejo. 949.768.1882.

RanchoMissionviejo.com/Events.

NOV. 23

Family Astronomy Night

5-7 p.m. Families and kids are welcome to come gaze out into outer space and learn about astronomy. Discuss the stars and galaxy with The Reserve and Orange County Astronomers. There will be astronomy-themed games and activities, craft-making and nighttime stories. Telescopes will be available.

Participants must be registered or on the wait list by 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22. Event is for ages 6 and older. Visit the website for price information. The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo, 28811 Ortega Highway. 949.489.9778. rmvreserve.org/calendar.

DEC. 2 The third annual Turkey Trot on the Ranch will be contested on Thanksgiving Day at Rancho Mission Viejo. Runners participate in the 2018 event. Photos: RanchLife

Turkey Trot Coming Up at RMV

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

L

ike everyone else, Rancho Mission Viejo is getting ready for Thanksgiving.

On that special Thursday, Rancho Mission Viejo will host the third annual Turkey Trot on the Ranch, which will include a 5K run and 1K Little Gobbler’s run.

Race proceeds will benefit The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo, a habitat that offers opportunities for environmental learning and community involvement. The race course will run along a picturesque path.

“We’re excited to again kick off Thanksgiving Day with the 3rd annual Turkey Trot on The Ranch for residents, their family and friends,” Amaya Genaro, director of community services at Rancho Mission Viejo, said in a news release. “This year, we’re expecting 1,000 participants to gobble up and enjoy the unique amenities and experiences The Ranch has to offer.”

Registration and packet pick-up will be at 7:30 a.m. on race day at Sendero Field and The Pavilion. The 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. at The Pavilion. Wearing a turkey outfit or other similar apparel is welcome and encouraged. 5K runners are advised to be in the start area before the race time. Strollers are allowed.

The 1K starts at 10 a.m. at Sendero Field.

Parking and RanchRide shuttle service are free on race day, according to a news release.

A photo opportunity is available to participants when they finish the race. Photos from the 2018 race show smiling participants in brown Turkey Trot shirts, some posing with people in turkey costumes and others wearing turkey-themed hats and other running wear. The event has drawn runners of all ages in years past.

Participants who register before race

The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

day can pick up a packet at Dick’s Sporting Goods, 27502 Antonio Pkwy, #B, Ladera Ranch, on Wednesday, Nov. 27 from 10 a.m.6 p.m. Participants will be able to check out their run time at the event and later online.

Prizes and medals will also be awarded.

Event volunteers are also welcomed to help runners stay on course, give water and snacks to runners, assist with parking and traffic direction, help with registration and packet pick-up and bib distribution, help set up and take down the event, snap pictures of runners, hand out medals to participants, and assist in other ways. Volunteers must be a minimum of 13 years old; those under 18 will require a parent’s consent on the liability waiver.

Visit turkeytrotontheranch.com for information on the course, runner and volunteer times, more details on parking, how to register, and other elements of the Turkey Trot.

Page 7

Monday Weeding and Restoration

7:30–9:30 a.m. Start the week off helping Reserve staff keep the premises looking nice early in the morning.

Participants must be registered by 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1. Event is for ages 10 and older and free for volunteers. The Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy, 28811 Ortega Highway.

949.489.9778. rmvreserve.org/calendar.

DEC. 7

Ridge to Ridge Hike

8:00–10:30 a.m. Take a loop hike on The Reserve in recognition of autumn ending. The path will go several miles.

Participants must be registered or on the wait list by 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6.

Event is for ages 10 and older. Visit the website for price information. The Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy, 28811 Ortega Highway. 949.489.9778. rmvreserve.org/calendar.

thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Collin Breaux, 949.388.7700, x109 cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh, 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Debra Wells, 949.322.4765 debra@wellsadsolutions.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Collin Breaux Senior City Editor, DP Times > Lillian Boyd City Editor, SC Times > Shawn Raymundo Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho

Real Estate Sales > Debra Wells (SJC) Multi-Media Assistant > Kendra Burns ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS

Letters to the Editor DISMANTLE SONGS? NOT SO FAST: A RESPONSE TO NOV. 8 LETTER TO THE EDITOR —JOHN MITCHELL, San Juan Capistrano In my opinion, publishing the Nov. 8 letter is equivalent to shouting “fire” or “bomb” in a crowded venue.

Statements such as “canister full of more radiation than the Chernobyl disaster” is demonstrably and absolutely false.

Regardless of opinion, a thorough risk analysis followed by extensive testing has concluded that the storage protocol being implemented at San Onofre is safe. Life itself is a risk. There are probably more deaths from traffic accidents in Southern California than total fatalities from Three Mile Island, Chernobyl and Fukushima combined. Each was several orders of magnitude greater than any possible spent fuel incident that could occur at San Onofre.

Until the federal government makes good on its longstanding obligation to provide a spent fuel depository, the fully studied, approved storage on site at San Onofre will exist. People had better get used to it!

For anyone unwilling or too afraid to live with this reality, their sole option is to move a distance they consider safe. In my opinion, like shouting fire, they do not have the right to inflame public opinion with false statements.

Finance Director > Mike Reed General Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Copy Editor > Randall Youngman

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Tim Trent

> Traci Kelly (SC) > Debra Wells (SJC)

EDITOR EMERITUS Jonathan Volzke

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 17, Issue 22. The Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly

by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (sanclementetimes. com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

FACEBOOK.COM/CAPODISPATCH • INSTAGRAM @CAPODISPATCH TWITTER.COM/CAPODISPATCH • LINKEDIN PICKET FENCE MEDIA

SPECIOUS ALLEGATIONS —LUDO DESCHUYTTER, San Juan Capistrano I was taken aback by your publishing Mayor Brian Maryott”s accusation that Congressman Mike Levin was the recipient of “dark money.” It is clearly evident that political parties make use of current legal shell games to inject anonymous money into politics. For Mr. Maryott to blatantly deflect Congressman Levin’s efforts to clean up political funding under the assertion that he has been bought by “political elites and out-of-state extremists” is specious. Both parties raise money for their candidates.

HR1, entitled For the People Act, was the first legislation to come out of this year’s House of Representatives to reform outrageous voting machinations and, in particular, to limit the influence of money in politics. We are all well aware of the infusion of massive amounts of money from the fossil fuel industry, big pharma, financial monoliths and various other conglomerates. Corporate money vastly outweighs the influence of individual

The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

persons—the people. The For the People Act curtails this excess, creates transparency, and returns an ethical honesty to the political process. Congressman Levin is a signatory to this bill and an active supporter of it. Unfortunately, this bill sits on the Senate majority leader’s desk unacted upon. In the face of all this, Mr. Maryott’s comments and accusations are facetious and disingenuous.

HONESTY VS. HYPOCRISY —DARCIE HARRIS, San Juan Capistrano I am deeply disappointed in San Juan Capistrano Mayor Brian Maryott for his inflammatory comments to the Dispatch about Congressman Mike Levin and equally disappointed in Picket Fence Media for printing content one would expect to see in a paid political ad. It’s sadly hypocritical for Maryott to voice concern about “dark money” when Republicans have already garnered millions in Super Pac dollars, earmarked for the 2020 House congressional races. And it’s not good journalism to print shallow quotes from Maryott, peppered with the standard demagogic words like “elites” and “extremists,” without digging deeper into the larger issue. For example, according to opensecrets.org, “A powerful Republican Super PAC received nearly half of its contributions during the first half of 2019 from a dark money group that shares its Washington, D.C., office.”

It was the Citizens United’s decision that opened the floodgates of unlimited contributions from undisclosed donors—both parties raise money this way. But Congressman Levin actively worked to pass the For the People Act, which would help curtail the political influence of big money.

That bill was passed in the House 246 days ago and has died like so many others in the Republican-controlled Senate. If Mr. Maryott wants to get “dark money” out of politics, perhaps he’ll make his voice heard to Mitch McConnell.

Let’s give credit where credit is due: Congressman Levin has stood strong on cleaning up nuclear waste from San Clemente, is unfailing in his support of our veterans, and has worked hard to protect our beautiful coastline. I am grateful, as are many others.

MARYOTT SHOULD BE ASHAMED —RON HERBERT, San Clemente

The article in your issue last week in which San Juan Capistrano Mayor Brian Maryott accused Congressman Mike Levin of receiving “dark money” is very convoluted.

The article states that Mr. Levin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi held an event in Oceanside, where they were discussing the For the People Act, which was recently passed by the House of Representatives.

Page 8

Mr. Maryott stated that because of that discussion, it “was utterly apparent that Mike Levin is bought and paid for by D.C. political elites and out-of-state extremists.”

To accuse Congressman Levin of this simply because they discussed the legislation doesn’t make any sense. Quite the contrary.

As the article states, the For the People Act is aimed at enhancing the fairness of elections and curbing the political influence of big money. How Mr. Maryott comes to his conclusion is mind-boggling.

Mr. Levin voted for the act with the express intent to eliminate “dark money” in politics.

Mr. Maryott’s accusation is ridiculous, and it is a lie. He should be ashamed of himself.

WHAT’S IMPORTANT NOW? —STEVE HOPS, San Clemente One of the most critical measurements of a society is how the community educates its young. Just how important are our local schools? While we do have a world-class team of educators and administrators, many of our facilities are just old.

Recently, I listened to one of our bright, well-spoken high school students describe having to attend class in trailers that had rats, failing ceiling tiles and broken air conditioning issues. When my son played for the high school water polo team, their home pool was shallow in one end, forcing them to avoid putting their feet on the bottom.

The Las Palmas Elementary School was built in 1927, and San Clemente High School is 55 years old. Our schools need our attention now.

This coming March, we will have an opportunity to approve a local bond issue to make our schools much more functional and comfortable. While space does not allow me to list all the improvements at our various facilities, the high school will be outfitted with a new library, cafeteria, kitchen, student services center, performing arts theater and a competitive pool.

I see this as a chance to show our community pride and do the right thing by supporting our students and teachers.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning. The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published. thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

At the Movies: ‘Ford v Ferrari’ Wins Movie Viewers

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

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

Friday | 22 CHUNKY KNIT BLANKET WORKSHOP 6:30-9:30 p.m. A workshop that will guide you step-by-step through the hand-knitting process. Participants will receive enough chunky chenille yarn to make an approximately 40” x 50” blanket. AR Workshop San Juan Capistrano, 31107 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite B2. 949.482.1362. arworkshop.com.

EDITOR’S PICK The San Juan Capistrano Skate Park Coalition will host a Skate Jam on Saturday at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center. Photo: File

SATURDAY, NOV. 23: SKATE JAM 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Skate Park Coalition will host a Skate Jam at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center. There will be skating (safety gear including a helmet and elbow and knee pads is required), local youth bands and giveaways. 25925 Camino Del Avion. 714.931.3814. sjcskateparkcoalition.com.

Saturday | 23 SEASONAL GARDEN TOUR 9:30-10:30 a.m. Check out the fall sights at Tree of Life Nursery. Take a tour to look at seasonal blooms and learn how to handle your yard during fall and winter.

33201 Ortega Highway. 949. 728.0685. californianativeplants.com.

KAI KALAMA AT TREVOR’S 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Live music featuring artist Kai Kalama at Trevor’s at the Tracks.

26701 Verdugo Street. 949.493.9593. trevorsatthetracks.com.

SMALL WORLD AT SWALLOW’S INN 2-6 p.m. Live music by Dana Point band Small World at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano. 949.493.3188. swallowsinn.com.

COFFEE, MOVIE, AND THE BOOK OF MATTHEW 4 p.m. Read through the Bible and watch a movie at Overflowing Church. Visit website for more information. 27132 Paseo Espada, #1223. 714.234.7000. overflowing.church.

Sunday | 24 PANNING FOR GOLD 11 a.m.-3 p.m. At Mission San Juan Capistrano. Search for gold in a trough. Recurring event. Visit website for more information and cost. 26801 Ortega Highway.

949.234.1300. missionsjc.com.

TRIVIA AT FIVE VINES 4-6 p.m. Have fun at general trivia. Sub-

31107 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite B2.

949.482.1362. arworkshop.com.

jects include geography, pop culture and sports. Must be 21 years or older, maximum 6 players per team. Each round has a winner. Free to play. Five Vines Wine Bar. 31761 Camino Capistrano, unit 11.

949.800.9145. fivevineswinebar.com.

CAPISTRANO VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL 10-YEAR REUNION 7-11 p.m. The CVHS Class of 2009’s 10year reunion will take place at Hennessy’s Tavern. Check out the Facebook group CVHS ’09 | 10 10 Year Reunion for more information. 31761 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

Tuesday | 26 STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY 10:30 a.m. At the San Juan Capistrano Library. Songs, stories, and fun for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers. 31495 El Camino Real. 949.493.1752. ocpl.org.

THE BATTLES AT FIVE VINES 7:30 p.m. Live music by The Battles at Five Vines Wine Bar. 31761 Camino Capistrano, unit 11. 949.800.9145. fivevineswinebar.com.

Wednesday | 27 CRAFT HOUR AT THE LIBRARY 3 p.m. At the San Juan Capistrano Library.

Craft event is free; all ages are welcome.

31495 El Camino Real. 949.493.1752. ocpl.org.

BRANCH & ARROW AT TREVOR’S 6 p.m. Live music by Branch & Arrow at Trevor’s at the Tracks. 26701 Verdugo Street. 949.493.9593. trevorsatthetracks.com.

Friday | 29 BLACK FRI-YAY WOOD WORKSHOP FUN 5-8 p.m. Have fun with a wood project and personalize it with designer paints and non-toxic stain colors. Register at website. AR Workshop San Juan Capistrano,

The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

Saturday | 30 WHISKEY RIDGE AT SWALLOW’S INN 9 p.m. Live music by Whiskey Ridge at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano.

949.493.3188. swallowsinn.com.

Friday | 06 FIRST FRIDAY FILM AT THE LIBRARY 7-9 p.m. At the San Juan Capistrano Library. Adults 18 and over are invited to enjoy watching a movie at the La Sala Auditorium the first Friday of each month.

Call the library to find out what’s playing.

31495 El Camino Real. 949.493.1752. ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

Page 10

Photo: Merrick Morton/20th Century Fox Film Corp.

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

J

ames Mangold has considerable range as a studio moviemaker, with past hits such as the drama Girl Interrupted (1999), the horror flick Identity (2003), the Western remake 3:10 to Yuma (2007), the superhero character study Logan (2017), and arguably the best music biopic of all time, Walk the Line (2005). Here, with Ford v Ferrari, he adds sports action feature to his resume.

It’s 1963, and Ford Motor Company needs an image makeover and a guaranteed win at the next 24 Hours of Le Mans race in France. Company Vice President Lee Iacocca (Jon Bernthal) thinks buying the Ferrari model will do the trick. Meanwhile, former racecar driver Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) is forced to quit driving because of a heart condition and is now an automobile manufacturer.

English driver Ken Miles (Christian Bale) is living in the U.S. with his family, struggling to get gigs at local races, and his repair garage is on the verge of going bankrupt. They all come together to form the perfect car for the race, known as the Ford GT40.

What does Ford v Ferrari have that we didn’t already get six years earlier with Ron Howard’s own racecar picture, Rush (2013)? Well, not much.

Script-wise, this is probably the most basic, safest movie released this season. But what it does have, it does well enough. The car sequences—whether visual effects, editing, sound design or direction—are all spot-on. Despite being a co-lead, Bale’s performance as Miles is the heart of the film and really sells both the hot-temper on the road, and supportive father at home. If you want to see the exciting biopic, make sure it’s on a big screen. CD

thecapistranodispatch.com

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS SATURDAY, NOV. 23 Annual Surfing Santa & Stand-Up Paddleboard Contest 8 a.m. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel presents the annual Surfing Santa & StandUp Paddleboard Contest to benefit Surfers Healing. The two-day event takes place at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 23-24, where contestants dress as Santa or other holiday-inspired characters and battle it out in the waves for a great cause. The contest features 10 categories, inclusive of surf and stand-up paddleboard, and available for both children and adults. Contestants can register and learn more at surfingsantacontest.org.

33333 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

Santa’s Photo Express

Noon-6 p.m. Have the kids take a photo with Santa Claus at the Center Court of the Outlets at San Clemente. There will be select dates for when to get pictures with Santa. 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.535.2323. Visit outletsatsanclemente.com for exact days.

SUNDAY, NOV. 24 Open House and Tree-Lighting Ceremony

4-6 p.m. Guests and the local community come together for the annual Open House and Tree Lighting Ceremony at The RitzCarlton, Laguna Niguel. There will be holiday music, an appearance by Santa Claus, and other activities. Donations of new toys, nonperishable food items, and children’s books

will be collected for Miracles for Kids and the Orange County Rescue Mission. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com.

THURSDAY, NOV. 28 42nd Annual Turkey Trot

6 a.m. The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce’s 42nd annual Turkey Trot will be held Thanksgiving Day. Registration opens at 6 a.m., with races starting at 7.

949.496.1555. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point. turkeytrot.com.

Turkey Trot on the Ranch

7:30 a.m. Thanksgiving Day race and other events at the Ranch. Proceeds from the race will benefit The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. Registration/packet pick-up opens at Sendero Field and The Pavilion. Start locations are The Pavilion, 2 Tierno Road, Rancho Mission Viejo and Sendero Field, 29201 Ortega Highway, Rancho Mission Viejo. Visit turkeytrotontheranch.com for full times and more information.

FRIDAY, NOV. 29 ‘A Christmas Carol’

8 p.m. Adaptation of the classic story directed by Darrell Hill at the Camino Real Playhouse. Runs through Dec. 22. Show times for each day vary. Dickens will be introduced to the audience, observe, and perform roles.

31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.8082. Visit caminorealplayhouse. org for schedule and ticket information.

(Continued)

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

(Cont.)

SATURDAY, NOV. 30

SATURDAY, DEC. 7

City of San Juan Capistrano Christmas Celebration

Boat Rides with Santa

4:15-5:45 p.m. Head to the Historic Town Center Park for an evening of entertainment and a Christmas tree lighting. Free shuttle service is available. 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 6 45th Annual Boat Parade of Lights

4:30-7:30 p.m. Dana Point Harbor will undergo a Tiki Holiday takeover. Also held Dec. 6-7, 13-14. Festivities begin at 4:30 p.m., and the boat parade starts at 7:30. Dana Point Harbor, 34571 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.388.3663. danapointharbor.com.

Holiday Storytelling

5 p.m. Children and families can enjoy a selection of holiday storytelling at the Eco-Adventure Center at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Donations of new children’s books will be collected for Miracles for Kids. Also happens Dec. 7, 13, and 14. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Join Santa and Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching on a 20-minute cruise around Dana Point Harbor to take pictures with Santa and his holiday helpers. Boat rides will be offered Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7-8. During your holiday adventure at sea, a $5 donation benefiting the El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club is welcome and appreciated. Voyagers can take the Boat Ride with Santa at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, located on the east end of the Harbor near Waterman’s Harbor at Dock 1. For more information, call 949.496.5794 or 949.923.2255 or visit online at danawharf.com.

Santa Paws

9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Pet Project Foundation is excited to host the 8th annual Santa Paws event. Bring your pets and have their picture taken with Santa for a small fee at the Clock Courtyard in Dana Point Harbor. All proceeds go to support the Pet Project Foundation, which supports the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter. For more information, visit petprojectfoundation.org. 34571 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. 949.492.1617.

(Continued)

Cool Picks

gift ideas for eve ryone on your list AWARD WINNING SALON Book your Holiday Appts now Brush Salon 31770 Camino Capistrano San Juan Capistrano • 949.496.8800 brushsalon.com

GIFT CARDS FOR A ONE HOUR MASSAGE Mention this ad for $10 off 2 or more gift cards The Massage Associates 31952 Camino Capistrano San Juan Capistrano • 949.489.7924 themassageassociates.com

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS D ana Point W inter Fe stiv al and T ree Lighting

Noon-5:30 p.m. The annual event will take place at La Plaza Park in Dana Point and feature Santa Claus, a craft fair, carnival games, rides, cookie decorating and more. The tree lighting takes place at 5:15 p.m., with free hot chocolate and cookies. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point. 949.248.3536. danapoint.org.

Capistrano Lights

5:30-9 p.m. Opening night for the holiday program Capistrano Lights at Mission San Juan Capistrano. There will be holiday readings and other features during the openingnight program. Opening night is a ticketed event. Capistrano Lights is a recurring event going through early January. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. Visit capistranolights.com for ticket and schedule information.

MONDAY, DEC. 9 Pines Park T ree Lighting

4-5 p.m. There will be carolers, a dog costume parade, refreshments and other fun activities for the tree lighting at 5 p.m. Pines Park, 34941 Camino Capistrano, Dana Point.

949.248.3536. danapoint.org.

THURSDAY, DEC. 12 ‘ T he N utc rac k er’

7-8 p.m. Sit just steps away from the stage at Casa Romantica’s annual production of The Nutcracker. Orange County Ballet Theater delivers a 90-minute version of the beloved holiday ballet. $40 per person. Casa Romantica, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 14 Holiday N ature Crafting at the Reserv e

9-11 a.m. Enjoy a cool, winter morning creating treasured keepsakes and personalized gifts made from natural and recycled

(Cont.)

materials. Take a walk around the area to look for natural treasures for winter plant bundles. Participants must be registered or on the wait list by 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13.

The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo Headquarters. 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. rmvreserve.org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 15 M erry M onarc h Celebration

3-5 p.m. Celebrate the season and support Capistrano Unified School District students at Monarch Beach Resort. There will be student performances, hot cocoa and cookies, visits with Santa Claus and a holiday tree lighting. One hundred percent of ticket sales will benefit music program in the district.

Tickets may be purchased at the door for cash only. One Monarch Beach Resort , Dana Point. 949.234.3900. Visit bit.ly/MerryMonarch2019 to purchase tickets in advance.

THURSDAY, DEC. 19 Christmas Bird Count at the Ranc h

8-11 a.m. Join experienced birders for the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count.

Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them, though there will be plenty to borrow. Ages 10 and up. Participants must be registered or on the wait list by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, December 18. The Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy, 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.9778. rmvreserve.org.

TUESDAY, DEC. 31-JAN. 1 N ew Y ear’ s at San Juan Hills G olf Club

8 p.m.-1 a.m. Ring in the New Year at San Juan Hills Golf Club, with a DJ and a special guest band. The event will feature tapas, appetizer stations and a champagne toast.

Tickets are $120 per person. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.1167. sanjuanhillsgolf.com.

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

A Look Back at the History of San Juan Capistrano EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the second part in a three-part series. The first part was published in the Nov. 8 edition.

R

odolphus Cook was ranch manager for the Congdons. He married the eldest daughter, Harriet, and it was their son, Congdon Russell Cook, who married Margaret Day. Remember, she was one of the three women who started the Presbyterian Sunday School back in 1916. And it was C. Russell Cook who donated the property on which the church stands today. When the Rotarians in town changed their meeting time from noon to the evening so that farmers could attend, Cook joined the group and remained a member for 37 years. He was also part of starting the Chamber of Commerce and became Chair of the Planning Commission after the City’s incorporation.

Frederica and William Stroschein were farmers from Anaheim who wanted to move to San Juan Capistrano. However, the land that they wanted belonged to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and they were not about to sell to a Protestant, much less a Lutheran. But when William told the rector of the Anaheim Church, the priest offered to buy the land with Stroschein money and give it back to him. And that is how in 1887 the Stroscheins moved to San Juan Capistrano.

They had 10 children, three of whom became charter members of the Community Presbyterian Church, as

did Frederica. She was left a widow in 1915, with five young children still at home. Sons Fred and Carl built Spanish Colonial Revival homes in the Mission Hills area and the house at 31682 Camino Real, known as the “The Little Yellow House.” It was the home of Carl and his wife, Ruth Nieblas. Carl was the last elected Constable of San Juan Township: 1932-1953.

He also formed a Civilian Defense Council in town during WWII with four other residents.

They converted an old water tower into an observation post and taught classes in first aid and bomb disarmament. “The Little Yellow House” is on the National MOMENTS Registry of Historic IN TIME

By Jan Siegel Places. The youngest son, Herbert, is the father of Gretchen Stroscher Thomson, a third-generation church member. When William came to America, his last name was Stroscher, but the immigration service misspelled it.

The youngest son, Herbert, legally changed it back to Stroscher.

The Williams name was another very influential family in San Juan Capistrano. Wendell (Guy) Williams married Catherine C. Bathgate and his brothers, Judge Roger. (R.Y.) and William, gave him a parcel of land in San Juan Capistrano. He built a house at 29931 Camino Capistrano on the

Congdon Russell Cook donated the property on which the Community Presbyterian Church stands today. Photo: Jan Siegel

Jan Siegel was a 33-year resident of San Juan Capistrano and now resides in the neighboring town of Rancho Mission Viejo. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 13 years, has been a volunteer guide for the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library’s architectural walking tour for 26 years and is currently the museum curator for the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. She was named Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The 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 Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

Sudoku

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Maple

BY MYLES MELLOR

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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

M

aple is a pretty little kitty with a quiet disposition. Only 5 months old, Maple is very calm for a kitten and prefers to spend her afternoons birdwatching.

She gets along well with other friendly cats and would do well in a peaceful home.

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

northern portion of land the Williams family had purchased from Judge Richard Egan in 1913. The house was a two-story Craftsman house and today is on the National Registry of Historic Places. Judge R. Y. Williams also built a two-story Craftsman house. Upon his death, the house was inherited by his sister’s children, the Swanners. This house, known as the Swanner house, is also on the National Registry. The three brothers started by growing walnuts, but Roger and Guy began growing citrus and tomatoes along with other farm products along with Guy’s brothers-in-law Will and Sim Bathgate. Guy planted the first commercial orange groves in San Juan Capistrano in 1914. Guy was one of the first Trustees for the Capistrano Union High School District. Catherine Williams, with 15 other women, organized the Capistrano Social Club in 1921, which became the San Juan Capistrano Women’s Club.

Related by marriage, Will and Sim Bathgate purchased property from their brother-in-law R.Y. Williams. The two brothers grew walnuts. In 1938, during a devastating flood in Southern Orange County, Sim tried to protect an irrigation pipe from storm damage along with another friend. Water came rushing down the creek and both men drowned. Their bodies were never found. Will continued to farm the property but switched to raising Valencia oranges and avocados after a pest infestation wiped out the walnut crop.

Reduced adoption costs all November for rabbits & cats

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

The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

Page 18

thecapistranodispatch.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE—SAT. NOV. 23 Saturday, November 23 - 8 a.m. 4011 Calle Abril, San Clemente. Lamps, butcher block counter top, king size headboard, duvets, Christmas village, kitchen/desk cabinet, hot tub cover and more.

COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Brisa Del Mar neighborhood (in Rancho S.C) Saturday Nov. 23rd from 7AM-12PM. Sponsored by Michelle Wilson, Realtor GARAGE SALE—NOV. 23 Saturday, November 23 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. 34442 Via Verde, Capo Beach, cross streets are Camino Capistrano and Via Verde.

MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE Huge multi-family garage sale- The Landing/Dana Crest. Saturday December 7th, 2019 7:30-11:30am. Cross streets- Josiah and Golden Lantern.

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

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@thecapistranodispatch.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED PART-TIME OFFICE ASSISTANT Part-time Office Assistant- Flexible daytime hours. Office work, Mailing Duties. Must live locally San Juan Capistrano. Send resume with the subject line “Office Assistant” to info@elitemedlistings.com

FOR SALE RESTAURANT LIQUOR LICENSE (TYPE 47) Type 47 Restaurant Liquor License for sale.

Text or call for details 949.510.9724

Do you want to reach 24,150+ people in the San Juan Capistrano area? *2.1 readership per 11,500 copies distributed

Then you need to be in The Capistrano Dispatch. Call us today!

949.388.7700 ext. 104 The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

Page 19

thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

Veterans Recognized on Veterans Day

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

V

eterans were recognized for their service on Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, during a ceremony at Veterans Park in San Juan Capistrano. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3801 of San Juan Capistrano and its Auxiliary honored all veterans during the event.

Veterans, members of veteran service organizations, local officials, and the community came out to give remarks, eat food, and thank veterans for giving back to the country. The event also featured music and veterans standing up to be recognized with applause.

“It’s really nice,” Jim Gregory, who served from 1951 to 1959 in the Navy, said of the ceremony. “I joined when I was 17 years old.

Went right over to Korea for the Inchon invasion, and later on went to Vietnam with this thing called Operation Passage to Freedom.”

He served during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, saving lives in Vietnam. Gregory is now 85.

Al Macias, who was grabbing a bite to eat while sitting in a chair during the event, said the recognition means a lot. Macias served from 1968 to 1972 and was a Navy corpsman.

“It was the best thing I ever did,” Macias said.

His wife, Christina Macias, said it was nice to see Vietnam veterans finally get respect, because they went through a lot and initially had no help for the post-traumatic stress disorder they went through. Christina and Al Macias have been coming to the Veterans Day events for many years. CD

Veterans were recognized for their service on Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, during a ceremony at Veterans Park in San Juan Capistrano. Photos: Collin Breaux The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

Page 20

thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Rule the Pool

it, and, really, out of halftime, the boys really knew what needed to be done.”

San Juan Hills (22-9) leaned again on its star, and the USC-bound Miller came through with six goals and another three shots off the post. Senior Zachary Van Blarcom scored two

goals, and senior goalie Noah Johnson was extremely sharp in the first half.

The Stallions led by one at halftime, 7-6, but the break was just what JSerra needed to find its focus and turn the game in its favor.

With San Juan Hills up, 8-7, JSerra

scored four straight goals by owning the extra-man opportunities and working low across the goal mouth. The Lions were 8 for 10 with the extra man.

JSerra led, 11-8, going into the fourth quarter, when each team scored two goals for the final score. JSerra held on to win its first CIF-SS championship in the Lions’ second title game appearance and in Ormsby’s second season at the helm.

“For where we are, I’m pleased,” Ormsby said of the state of the program. “I don’t want to look too far ahead. I’ve talked a lot about (the fact) we have in place a lot of the characteristics that you would look at for a strong perennial program. You can only win the division that you’re in. We did a nice job with that. We’ll see what the future holds for us.”

It was also the second CIF-SS title-game appearance for San Juan Hills. The Stallions went to the 2016 Division 5 Final in coach Ivan Buich’s second year with the program.

JSerra won all three matchups against San Juan Hills this season.

On Saturday, the Stallions rocketed to a 4-0 lead with two goals by Miller along with strikes from junior Bradley Engelke and senior Jack Baughman.

However, JSerra stayed the course and scored the game’s next five goals to take a lead in the second quarter. The teams traded goals, with San Juan Hills taking a 7-6 lead into halftime. But JSerra seized control for good with its scoring surge in the third quarter.

JSerra’s season will continue as the Lions play Schurr of Montebello in the CIF SoCal Division II Regional playoffs at Segerstrom High School on Friday, Nov. 22. CD

Friday, Nov. 22.

Washington State-commit Joey Hobert had another standout performance in the quarterfinals with two receiving touchdowns and the highlight of the game—a 101-yard interception return for a touchdown. Hobert also roped in a team-high 10 tackles.

Hudson Jones completed 15 of 16 passes for 193 yards and five touchdowns.

Paramount (11-1) has also dominated in the playoffs, with wins over El Toro, 60-10, and Roosevelt of Eastlake, 41-17.

The Pirates have scored 40 or more points in eight straight games, and their lone loss was by one point in overtime to Division 1 qualifier Bishop Amat on Aug. 30.

Saturday, Nov. 16 at the Riverside Cross Country Course.

The CIF-SS Finals will be contested on Saturday, Nov. 23 at the same Riverside course.

The JSerra boys won their Division 4 heat on the strength of a first-place run by back-to-back state champion Anthony

Grover. The JSerra girls advanced by finishing seventh in their heat.

The reigning CIF-SS champion St. Margaret’s boys and girls were both ranked No. 1 in their Division 5 polls entering the postseason and advanced easily, with the girls winning their heat and the boys placing second in theirs. CD

JSerra comes back against San Juan Hills to win first CIF-SS water polo title

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

n an all-San Juan Capistrano final with No. 1 seed JSerra and No. 2 seed San Juan Hills each looking to win its first CIF-SS water polo championship, the CIF-SS Division 4 title game lived up to its billing.

San Juan Hills sprung out early on another huge effort by Max Miller, but JSerra mounted a comeback with a fivegoal third quarter and hung on to earn the win, 13-10, and the Lions’ first CIF-SS water polo championship at the William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center on Saturday, Nov. 16.

JSerra (27-5) won without a senior on its roster and a full team effort on the way to its comeback victory. Junior Lachlan Treister and freshmen Conor Brough and Johan Thrall each scored three goals for the Lions, and both junior goalie Jeffrey Muller and freshman goalie Jack Helfer were strong in the cage.

“I knew because they’re young, there was going to be some bumps at some point or another,” JSerra coach Brett Ormsby said. “We composed ourselves after the rough start. Give San Juan Hills credit; that wasn’t just us starting slow, that was them starting really strong. We got back to the game plan. We did a great job of executing

San Juan Preps Roundup

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

For in-game updates, news and more for all of the SJC high school sports programs, follow us on Facebook and Twitter @SouthOCSports

San Juan Hills Football Advances to First Semifinal The fourth-seeded San Juan Hills football team dominated Hart, 52-21, in the CIF-SS Division 4 quarterfinals at San Juan Hills on Friday, Nov. 15.

The Stallions’ victory was the first quarterfinal win in program history, as San Juan Hills (9-3) advances to its first semifinal at No. 1 seed Paramount on

JSerra scored five goals in the third quarter to come from behind and defeat San Juan Hills for the CIF-SS Division 4 water polo championship. Photos: Zach Cavanagh

St. Margaret’s, JSerra to Run in CIF-SS Cross Country Finals Both the St. Margaret’s and JSerra boys and girls cross country teams advanced out of the CIF-SS preliminaries on

The Capistrano Dispatch November 22-December 12, 2019

Page 22