June 9, 2017

Annual Relay for Life Returns June 10 OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

PAGE 24 FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

JUNE 9-22, 2017 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 11

Ride On, Stallions

Congratulations to the San Juan Hills High School Class of 2017 INSIDE: SPECIAL SECTION

San Juan Hills High School held its graduation ceremony on June 1 at the Bren Events Center in Irvine. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Grand Jury: Ortega Hwy South County Residents Voice Widening Delays Opposition to Toll Road at Have Cost Millions Forum, Council Meeting EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 7

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Phenom Shortstop Royce Lewis Heads into MLB Draft as a Top Prospect SPORTS/PAGE 30

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EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week Chamber of Commerce Honors Businesses, Residents and Departing CEO THE LATEST: The San Juan Chamber of Commerce installed its new board of directors and bid farewell to its departing CEO on June 7 at El Adobe de Capistrano.

The annual installation dinner also highlighted exceptional San Juan businesses and members of the community.

Outgoing Chamber CEO Mark Bodenhamer announced his resignation last January, as his family will be moving this summer to the Bay Area in Northern California. Bodenhamer’s wife, Tallia Hart, was hired as the new CEO of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce.

Bodenhamer is set to leave his post next week, which made Wednesday’s celebration bittersweet. The chamber surprised Bodenhamer by naming him an Honorary Man of the Year for his service to the chamber and the city over the last seven years.

Gerald Muir, who serves on three different city commissions in addition to his work with other local organizations, was honored as 2017 Man of the Year for his service and dedication to the city and residents of San Juan. Ann Ronan, outgoing chamber board member and local travel agent, was named 2017 Woman of the Year for her work with numerous organizations in town. Both Muir and Ronan have long histories of volunteerism with an array of nonprofits throughout the community.

Annabelle Isky, a 44-year resident of San Juan, was named the Ambassador of the Year for her continuous positive presence throughout the community.

Buy My Bikes, owned by Jim Curwood, earned the title of 2017 Business of the Year for his outstanding customer service and devotion to the community. Buy My Bikes originally opened 39 years ago, and Curwood can often be found donating his time, resources and bikes to events and nonprofits in San Juan and across South Orange County.

WHAT’S NEXT: For the full version of this story, including details on this year’s honorees and a photo gallery from the event, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

For information on future chamber events, visit www.sanjuanchamber.com.

—Allison Jarrell The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

The 2017 San Juan Chamber of Commerce board was sworn in during the June 7 installation dinner.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

OC Grand Jury: Ortega Hwy Widening Delays Have Cost Taxpayers Millions THE LATEST: On June 5, the Orange County Grand Jury issued a report, “Ortega Highway: Unnecessary Delays Have Cost Us Millions,” that claims the San Juan Capistrano City Council’s inactions and delays to work on widening 0.9 miles of Ortega Highway have resulted in the loss of millions of dollars of taxpayer money.

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

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

According to the report, previous project cost estimates of $25-$30 million have risen to more than $52 million due to over five years of delay on the widening.

WHAT’S NEXT: The grand jury made three recommendations in the conclusion of its report: • OCTA should continue to actively

work to resolve future traffic concerns on Ortega Highway.

• City staff should prepare a report for presentation to the City Council and the citizens of San Juan Capistrano by Sept. 1, 2017, assessing any fiscal consequences to the city incurred by their withdrawal from the active participation on the Lower Ortega Project, so that citizens are advised of the full impact of actions taken with respect to the project. This includes fiscal damages, claims and penalties.

• The county should continue to work toward timely completion of the Lower Ortega Project.

The city has 90 days following the June 5 publication of the report to issue a response.

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

City to File Federal Complaint against State Commission’s SDG&E Decision THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council voted 4-1 in closed session on June 6 to file a complaint in federal court against the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regarding its decision to approve San Diego Gas & Electric’s substation expansion in a residential area of San Juan. Councilman Derek Reeve was the lone dissenter.

The Council’s vote is the latest chapter in the city’s ongoing effort to oppose the expansion of the substation, which was approved unanimously by the CPUC on Dec. 15. The expansion, which is part of SDG&E’s South Orange County Reliability Enhancement (SOCRE) project, involves

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rebuilding and upgrading a portion of its transmission infrastructure. The project aims to create a redundant electrical system that would rely on two substations rather than just the current facility in Talega.

At the time of the approval, CPUC commissioners said that despite concerns from some residents, the project is the best solution for ensuring greater electrical reliability in South Orange County.

Since then, the city has consistently taken steps to continue opposing the approved project. In January, the Council voted to allocate an additional $25,000 from the city’s general fund reserves to retain special legal services from the law firm of Goodin, MacBride, Squeri & Day, as well as an extra $240,000 for additional legal services from Best, Best & Krieger (the city’s legal representation) for California Environmental Quality Act litigation.

Then on May 16, the Council voted unanimously in closed session to retain legal services from Aguirre & Severson LLP, and to draft a complaint to the CPUC. Attorney Michael Aguirre sued SDG&E in 2008 as San Diego’s city attorney and ultimately won his case against the utility.

WHAT’S NEXT: On Thursday, city officials said there is currently no further information or documents related to the complaint that can be released other than what was reported out of the Council’s June 6 closed session. The complaint was not yet finalized and filed as of press time.

—AJ

Free Weekend Trolley Service Launches Today THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano summer trolley service kicks off today, June 9, and will run for 13 consecutive weekends (through Labor Day). The free trolley service will take riders along a continuous loop from downtown San Juan to the Dana Point trolley connection stop at Stonehill Drive and Del Obispo Street.

The city is leasing two trolleys this year, which is anticipated to cut wait times to about 20 minutes.

Hours of operation are Fridays 5-10 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Riders can use a trolley tracker app called “Ride Services” to see the real-time schedule of each trolley.

The majority of the $154,000 trolley program is funded with Measure M2 and air quality grants from the Orange County Transportation Authority.

WHAT’S NEXT: Any questions or comments regarding the trolley service can be directed to the city’s public works office at 949.443.6339.

To view a PDF of the trolley map, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —AJ (Cont. on page 4) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Vista) speaks to an audience at a packed auditorium on Saturday, June 3, at San Juan Hills High School. Photo: Allison Jarrell

(Cont. from page 3)

Rep. Darrell Issa Takes Questions on Federal, Local Issues during San Juan Capistrano Town Hall THE LATEST: Like many of his colleagues in Congress, Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Vista) of the 49th district recently hosted a town hall meeting and faced questions from a sizeable group of residents from across the district.

The June 3 town hall meeting took place at San Juan Hills High School in San Juan Capistrano. More than 500 people came to the meeting, some of whom could not get in because the venue was filled to capacity.

Protestors and supporters were outside San Juan Hills High School for the duration of the meeting.

The topic of the day was health care, specifically regarding the American Health Care Act, which is currently making its way through the Senate. It already passed the House of Representatives.

The Congressional Budget Office has forecasted the bill would leave 23 million Americans without healthcare. The office also predicts that the bill would reduce healthcare costs for individuals by 50 percent.

Issa said he voted to move the bill to the Senate with the belief that more than 10 million of the people who “will lose their health care will choose, simply, not to be insured.”

That response didn’t sit well with most audience members.

“One of the natures of the Affordable Care Act was that it was anti-choice,” Page 4

Issa said. “You didn’t get to choose (your provider) or not to have an insurer. It is one of the reforms that people with good conscience should have as broad a choice for insurance.”

Issa also emphasized his opposition to single-payer health care, also known as universal, because of the burden it could place on governments.

“Half the money would come from the federal government and half would come from states,” Issa said. “We’re limiting the federal government, telling it what it can and can’t do, and the states can do the rest, and that’s an important consideration.”

The California Senate passed a bill that would allow for single-payer coverage on June 2; however, initial reports show there may not be a financially feasible way to implement it. The legislative analysis estimated $400 billion would be needed to fund it.

“We’re best off when money doesn’t go to Washington, (D.C.),” he said.

Along with healthcare, Issa discussed toll road proposals, President Donald Trump’s decision to leave the Paris climate accord, and the bipartisan climate change caucus he recently became a member of.

WHAT’S NEXT: Mike Levin, of San Juan Capistrano, and Issa’s 2016 opponent, Ret. Col. Doug Applegate, have both pledged to run for the district seat in 2018. When asked by an audience member if he’ll run for another congressional term, Issa said, “yes.”

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

—Eric Heinz www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC San Juan Capistrano City Council to Send Toll Road Opposition Letter to TCA

A woman holds a “Not My Toll Road” sign in solidarity with San Clemente residents who protested outside McKinney Theater at Saddleback College on June 5.

Photo: Eric Heinz

The Road Ahead South Orange County residents voice loud opposition to proposals at third TCA forum

BY ERIC HEINZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) hosted its third public forum regarding toll road proposals in South Orange County on Monday, June 5, at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo.

The McKinney Theater was packed to capacity (406 people) with hundreds more who had to either watch from the overflow rooms or online via The Capistrano Dispatch Facebook Live stream.

Two panels discussed topics related to the toll roads. The first panel reviewed the environmental lawsuit settlement between the TCA and local organizations, which took more than a decade to reach, and the second discussed the roles of the Orange County Transportation Authority, Caltrans and the TCA’s transportation analysts.

Questions were submitted by the public either in person, via the internet or the overflow rooms.

During the first panel, Mike Kraman, the CEO of the TCA; Dan Silver, of the Endangered Habitats League; and Richard Katz, described as a settlement discussion The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

participant, explained what the settlement means. In exchange for a $28 million environmental fund, which could be used for a variety of efforts, litigants such as Save San Onofre Coalition and Surfrider Foundation cannot oppose a South Orange County toll road.

Eighteen new proposals have come to light since the lawsuit that prohibits the TCA from building in certain areas of the San Mateo Watershed, Camp Pendleton and San Onofre State Beach. Some of them go straight through San Clemente, while others cut through portions of San Juan Capistrano and neighboring areas in order to connect the 241 toll road at its current terminus at Ortega Highway. Early on in the meeting, Kraman explained that the proposals are not set in stone and are preliminary ideas. He started to say, “We may not have all the right proposals,” and before he could finish his point, the audience shouted back, “You don’t.”

Doing nothing is still an option, Silver said.

A theme of being behooved by the state to provide adequate transportation in the area dominated the discussion on the second panel. According to various reports by the agencies, traffic is expected to increase 65 percent by 2035 and therefore, they argue, the need for a north-south toll road is imminent.

TCA conducted an ascertainment study to gather ideas from the public in 2015, and that’s how the proposals were born. The agency has hosted public input forums since 2016 and began the project initiation processes in February. The project initiation phase includes conducting biological work and understanding what

Hundreds of people who couldn’t get inside McKinney Theater during the forum on June 5, continued to protest the toll roads outside the theater. Photo: Eric Heinz

species of wildlife may be in the area. A report on the initiation is expected to be ready sometime this fall.

The environmental assessment and consulting group, Psomas, has been targeted by locals who have seen their biologists in the area marking up open space for potential alignments. Most of the concerns are due to the TCA saying they have not started a formal process of toll road construction.

Currently, the TCA’s toll road timeline includes the start of environmental scoping in October, which would conclude in February 2018. Between 2018 and 2019, technical studies will be done, and a draft environmental report is expected to be done in 2020.

The TCA anticipates having a proposal ready to be approved by state/federal agencies by 2021.

During the forum, people who could not attend inside held their own rally against the current proposals. On social media,

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The City Council voted unanimously the day after the forum to send a letter to the Transportation Corridor Agencies that opposes the 241 and 73 toll road routes that would negatively impact San Juan Capistrano.

Drafted by Councilman Derek Reeve, the letter specifically opposes Options 9, 13, 17 and 18 as proposed by the TCA. “These proposed alignments will have significant and irreversible environmental impacts and decimate existing quality of life for our residents,” the letter states.

The letter covers San Juan’s history of working with neighboring communities to enhance regional mobility, including widening Interstate 5 through town, freeway interchange enhancements, the 73 toll road at the north entrance of town, double tracking through much of San Juan, the extension of Avenida La Pata, and not opposing the widening of Ortega Highway.

“We respect that this is only the beginning of a long drawn out process and appreciate the efforts of the TCA and our regional partners,” the letter reads. “The City of San Juan Capistrano remains committed to working with the TCA, OCTA, CalTrans and other regional partners to enhance regional mobility while also being sensitive to regional concerns. We look forward to continuing to participate with an ongoing open and transparent process.”

Councilwoman Pam Patterson recommended using “stronger language” at the beginning of the letter, so that it states they “strongly oppose any alignment which would extend the 241 or the 73 Toll Roads in a way that will negatively impact the City of San Juan Capistrano.” The Council voted unanimously to add the word “strongly.”

The letter from the Council will be signed by Mayor Kerry Ferguson and will also be sent to regional agencies and representatives.

For the full version of this story—including more Council comments, public comments and a copy of the Council’s letter to TCA—visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —Allison Jarrell

many groups, such as Not My Toll Road and members of the Coalition to Save San Clemente, live-streamed their protest of the toll roads that could run through their city.

To watch the forum in its entirety, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com and click the “Watch Live: TCA Toll Road Forum at Saddleback College” article, or on The Capistrano Dispatch Facebook page. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY ALLISON JARRELL

AARP Foundation Experience Corps OC Seeks Volunteers Are you interested in helping children build critical literacy skills? AARP Foundation Experience Corps Orange County is looking for residents age 50 and older who are interested in helping kids learn to read.

Experience Corps OC is launching a program this fall at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley in San Juan Capistrano, Aliso Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita, where tutors will provide literacy support to children in kindergarten through third grade. Experience Corps OC provides peer support, mentoring, coaching and ongoing training to help each tutor succeed.

Those interested in participating in the program this fall are encouraged to attend an informational meeting on Monday, June 12 from 2-3 p.m. at the San Juan Capistrano Library, located at 31495 El Camino Real.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Karen Banse at 949.244.1560 or karen. banse@parentishealth.com.

OCTA Offers Youth Summer Pass The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is encouraging youth to explore their community this summer using the discounted OCTA Youth Summer Pass.

The 30-day Youth Summer Pass is a limited-time discount on the youth monthly pass. It’s being offered to children ages 6 to 18 and costs $20, half off the regular

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter

COMPILED BY ALLISON JARRELL

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt.

The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

Tuesday, June 6 RECKLESS DRIVING Mission Hills Drive, 27100 Block (10:34 p.m.) A dirt bike was seen “racing back and forth” on the trails.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Paseo Adelanto, 32100 Block (6:24 p.m.) A man The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

price. It is valid for unlimited rides on the 65 OC Bus routes from June 1 to August 31. The Youth Summer Pass can be purchased using the mobile ticketing feature of the OC Bus app.

As part of this year’s promotion, OCTA is offering prizes, including Knott’s Berry Farm tickets, movie theater tickets and gift cards, to a lucky winner each week. To enter, participants are asked to hop on an OC Bus, take a selfie with the special summer bus decal and share their photos on social media using #OCSummerBus. To find out more about the OCTA Youth Summer Pass, visit www.octa.net.

First Businesses Open in Sendero Marketplace Starbucks, Sendero Animal Hospital, and Rancho Mission Viejo Master Maintenance Corporation (Rancho MMC) are the first businesses to open in Sendero Marketplace, Rancho Mission Viejo’s newest neighborhood shopping center, located on the corner of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway.

Rancho Mission Viejo encompasses nearly 23,000 acres, including the villages of Sendero and Esencia, and 17,000 acres of permanent open space.

Sendero’s shopping center includes an 1,800-square-foot Starbucks, located at 30835 Gateway Place, and the Rancho Mission Viejo Master Maintenance Corporation (Rancho MMC), which serves the residents of Esencia and Sendero. Both shops opened on May 25. Starbucks is open Monday through Sunday from 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Rancho MMC is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.

Sendero Animal Hospital, which opened June 8, is a full service animal hospital serving South Orange County. Dr. Louis

and woman were reportedly looking into vehicles near Wow Poki.

Saturday, June 3 DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 31400 Block (9:59 a.m.) An apparently homeless person was seen sleeping on the walkway next to the library.

Friday, June 2 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (7:49 p.m.)

A pickup truck was seen leaking gas in the Ralphs parking lot.

Mauna, a graduate of UCLA and University of Missouri Veterinary School, offers physical examinations, customized treatment and vaccinations, wellness plans, dentistry, state-of-the-art diagnostics, surgery and more. The pharmacy is in-house with an online home delivery option.

Sendero Animal Hospital is located on the south end of the center at 30703 Gateway Place. For more information, visit www.senderoah.com.

Upcoming Sendero business openings include Gelson’s Market, Rite Aid, Chevron, Chase Bank, Nekter Juice Bar, The Cleaners & Tailoring, The Nail Lounge, Sport Clips, MemorialCare Medical Group, Mission Hospital Wellness Center, The UPS Store, Sendero Dental Studio, and The Powder Room. For more information, visit www.senderomarketplace.com.

OC Association of Realtors to Host Taxpayer Watchdog Event The Orange County Association of Realtors will be hosting a free seminar featuring a panel of experts who will help “demystify” Mello-Roos Taxes, according to a press release from Orange County Auditor-Controller Eric H. Woolery. Assessor Claude Parrish and Irvine Mayor Donald P. Wagner and more will discuss the details of Mello-Roos and how they work.

The event is scheduled from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Orange County Association of Realtors, 25552 La Paz Road in Laguna Hills.

Parking is open and complimentary.

To register for the event, visit http:// conta.cc/2rVm7Km. Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino Capistrano, 32100 Block (5:50 p.m.)

Solicitors—a woman, a man and two boys—were reportedly harassing customers near the Rite Aid. TRAFFIC HAZARD Avenida Descanco/Avenida Mariposa (5:06 p.m.) “Children at play” signs were left in the middle of the street. The man who put the signs in the street told police that he would move them, but he intended to put them back in the middle of the street once the officer left.

Tuesday, May 30

CITIZEN ASSIST Paseo Don Jose, 31600 Block (5:03 p.m.) A caller told police that the pharmacy is stealing his OxyContin.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Stonehill Drive/Camino Capistrano (8:33 p.m.)

Two men were reportedly “doing something to the Welcome to Dana Point rock” in the median.

INVESTIGATE PERSON DOWN Camino Capistrano/Del Obispo Street (3:27 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for a man face down on the pavement near the exit of the barber shop.

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Community Meetings TUESDAY, JUNE 13

Planning Commission Meeting

6:30 p.m. The city’s Planning Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

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

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14

Downtown Farmers Market

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

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

San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club

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

FRIDAY, JUNE 16

Coffee Chat

8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Hennessey’s Tavern, 31761 Camino Capistrano.

All are welcome. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

MONDAY, JUNE 19

Parks, Recreation, Youth, Senior Services, Trails and Equestrian Commission Meeting

5:30 p.m. The city’s Parks, Recreation, Youth, Senior Services, Trails and Equestrian Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 20

City Council Meeting

5 p.m. The city’s governing body meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano. org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21

San Juan Summer Nites

6-8 p.m. The city’s annual summer concert series kicks off with a performance by Redneck Rodeo. The event also includes dancing, food, beer and wine, a local business expo and free activities for kids.

Free to attend. Historic Town Center Park, 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5911, www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

PUBLISHER’S NOTE:

by Norb Garrett

Welcome to the Team!

W

e’re pleased to announce and welcome Rachael Mattice to the Picket Fence Media team. Rachael joins us as our new Group Managing Editor. An excellent writer and editor, Rachael joins us after gaining experience at such media outlets as OC Weekly and The Indianapolis Star.

She also worked most recently as managing editor for the content team of a local health services company and has been living in the San Clemente area for the past few months.

Picket Fence Media’s Welcome aboard, new Group Managing Editor Rachael Mattice.

Rachael! DP

Letters to the Editor THE WINNERS AND LOSERS OF THE DISTRITO LA NOVIA/MEADOWS PROJECT —John Perry, San Juan Capistrano At the May 16 San Juan Capistrano City Council public hearing on a four-year extension of the Distro La Novia/Meadows project development agreement, it occurred to me that a number of competing interests are in play. In this article, I will attempt to categorize the groups that will benefit or lose from the proposed project.

Winners: The city of San Juan Capistrano becomes the biggest winner because the city gets millions of dollars in developer fees for a variety of purposes.

Advanced Real Estate Services (ARES) becomes a big winner because inexpensive property will get rezoned to a more desirable entitlement from old restricted zoning. The zoning alone could add millions to the potential worth of property owned by ARES. They could choose to sell off the rezoned property without building anything.

The equestrian community is a big winner because the project includes a proposal to build facilities to house 500 The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

horses, together with stables, exercise yards, show stadiums, trails, trailer parking, manure collection and storage facilities.

Losers: The downtown merchants and nearby property owners will become big losers when the Distrito/Meadows development is completed, because downtown business owners and merchants will see much of their current business move to the new and trendy shops and restaurants in the Distrito development. The clientele, who currently frequent shops and restaurants in the old section of San Juan Capistrano, will be attracted by the new and modern facilities constructed by the eventual builder.

The residents of the entire city of San Juan Capistrano, especially those who live along San Juan Creek Road, will experience increased traffic as a result of the construction of the Distrito and Meadows projects. San Juan Creek Road will bear the brunt of the increase in traffic of 8,000 trips per day when the grading for Distrito and Forster Canyon landfill excavation begins and buildings are completed.

In addition, the noise, dust, and reductions in air quality will last for several years. Ten three-story buildings and a parking structure with elements towering nearly 45 feet in the air will dominate the view toward the south from San Juan West and East residential with night lighting from the project obliterating the sunsets and stars.

I have covered just some of the elements of who wins and who loses. It seems to me that after the project is built and the developer has sold off all the buildings and homes and has filled the stables with horses, the residents of San Juan Capistrano, especially residents of San Juan Hills East and West, will have to live with the consequences of extremely poor planning and judgment on the part of our current and past City Councils.

‘COMMUNITY COMMON SENSE’ BEHIND FARIAS RECALL ATTEMPT —Lon Uso, former mayor of San Juan Capistrano Hi San Juan Capistrano, It’s been six years since I left. I do miss many of you and think about my beautiful old town often. I have to say that there is life after San Juan, and I am enjoying it to the fullest here in Cool, California.

I have tried to stay out of the city business because the continuing dysfunction is heartbreaking, yet there are a couple of issues that have come up that make it impossible to stay quiet.

I’ll start with the ridiculous recall of Mayor Pro Tem Sergio Farias. There is something much more important you should be seeing here than this recall attempt. You have to look at a sinister group

that is so intent in maintaining political control of the city that truth and facts have little meaning. I am talking about Community Common (non) Sense and the people who run it.

My understanding is that Mr. Farias asked for their support and that they gave it to him. Once elected, he realized that some of the things that he promised were impossible to keep, which is very common for newly elected officials. When he would no longer take their marching orders, they turned against him, and so you have this absurd recall.

Some might be skeptical of this scenario, but I have experienced their filthy tactics firsthand. During my unsuccessful reelection campaign, they had two handpicked candidates. They approached me and asked me to run with their cabal as a slate. When I told them that I needed my independence as I didn’t agree with them on some important issues, they reached out to another candidate already running and then turned on me like a pack of rabid dogs. They proceeded to print endless lies about me in their rag knowing that as a public figure, I had virtually no recourse.

I guarantee you that if I had kowtowed to them, they would have written very different things about me, but I could have never allowed my vote to be controlled by these people.

I won’t deny that I made some mistakes during my term, but I admitted to all of them because I believed that at the very least, you deserved some honesty.

The second issue is the hotels. You have an opportunity to do something great for San Juan. I know, like and respect the people involved in both of these projects. The fact that these projects have deteriorated into a lawsuit exemplifies the complete lack of leadership from City Hall. There is room for both hotels if accompanied by a comprehensive downtown redevelopment plan. Doing this piecemeal has led to this lawsuit, as they are each trying to capture a small market. The end result could easily mean that you end up with no hotel at all and will continue with a perpetually failing downtown.

I have no dog in this fight, but I hope that in reading this you will be willing to work for Mr. Farias even if you can’t vote for him, because he will need help fighting the influence of this group trying to buy another vote to stay in power. I also hope that you will reach out to City Hall and tell them that you want them to dust off the old downtown redevelopment plan that you spent a half a million bucks designing and putting together and then sit down with both developers to determine what needs to happen to build both hotels.

Good luck my friends. I wish you all health and happiness, but mostly I wish you peace and good governance—you deserve it.

(Cont. on page 23)

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

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EDITORIAL Group Managing Editor > Rachael Mattice City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell City Editor, DP Times > Kristina Pritchett City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Debra Holm Tim Trent Alex Paris

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 15, Issue 11. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly

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

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than standing up here. And who could forget the wise old sage, Mr. Snedeker, teaching us that empathy is the key to learning, and also that student news is the only way to spend a tutorial.

More than anything though, I found you guys and gals, my fellow peers, my devoted teammates, and my heartfelt friends that have made these last four years so unforgettable—the class of 2017.

From Brody destroying the competition in a grueling 3-mile race, tracies and all, to Maddie Oblea helping me out with a couple physics problems after class.

From Julia Gordon absolutely schooling me on theater tech and lighting, to Freddie planning out the next awesome school event.

From kicking it around on the soccer pitch with Vasquez and Fernie, to kicking back and watching the beautiful California sunset with my best friends Justin, Lea and Max. I didn’t change as a person, as I’m sure those who know me can attest.

I’m still that same quirky kid I came into high school as. But through these four years, I’ve had the privilege of celebrating the myriad of people that make up this class.

You’re the people that have defined my life forever—my memories, my hopes and my joys. Don’t live your life by the numbers, the colleges or the scores; live by your impact, the immeasurable impact you’ve all had on me and on each other.

We’re all a part of a wildly diverse class of doers, a wonderfully unique class of dreamers. So dream big San Juan Hills, do good, and most of all, be you.

By Hazel Mellem, San Juan Hills High School 2017 Scholar of Scholars, 4.8 GPA

around. I remember one of my friend’s parents called tenth grade “nowhereland,” and they couldn’t have been more right.

But at least it was interesting.

This was the year our class discovered its fondness for creating anonymous Instagram accounts, like @sjhhs_compliments, @ sjhhs_punkest_sophomores, and my personal favorite, @sjhhs_ hottest_left_legs.

2015 also brought a real-life lockdown drill, when, rather than worry for our safety, we sophomores watched Mulan and dared each other to use the classroom’s emergency toilet.

And then we were juniors. We were finally upperclassmen! We could drive ourselves to school, sit in the student section at football games and actually see what was going on at pep rallies.

We met our new principal and we finally attended prom.

We got last place in Clash of the Classes for getting a little too excited about Greek Day, but at least we proved that our class has a sense of humor.

And before we knew it, it was senior year. We kicked it off with a senior sunrise and homecoming pictures at the pier. Suddenly the year began to fly by, as we

stormed the field at our last home football game, choked on colored powder at our last Dance or Dye, and wondered for the last time how our school has such a strange tradition as Banana Fridays.

And we finally bounced back in Clash of the Classes—a fair and well-deserved win, no matter how hard the juniors try to deny it.

Ending the year with a bang, senior assassins revealed that a little disagreement about the size of a water gun could turn into a class-wide battle.

But at the end of the day, the class of 2017 is still a family. And now we’re here. We did it!

I’m so thankful for the past four years with you all, and I could not be more proud of my senior class.

Whether you’re going to SLO, Saddleback, SDSU, or straight to a career, I know you’re all capable of great things. I have complete faith that you will work hard and dedicate yourself to whatever you do, so for now all I ask of you is this: celebrate, relax and spend time with the people you love.

You have been working for the past 12 years, and now this time is yours. So enjoy it…and then show the world what the class of 2017 can do.

Dream Big Celebrating a class of diverse doers and unique dreamers

By Kyle Gray, San Juan Hills High School 2017 Scholar of Scholars, 4.8 GPA Ok, first of all I want to make it very clear—I’m an antisocial nerd.

(Maybe the robe gives it away).

My hobbies include computers and hiding from the light, and my interests revolve around stuff irrelevant to the mind of the average high schooler—junk like “geopolitical relations” and the “science of empathy.” Whatever.

Seriously though, one of my college essays was about how I used to just sit in the library reading and reading, isolating myself from the world around me.

I felt…different, like I didn’t belong. The beginning of freshman year, I got to know the San Juan Hills library pretty well too, falling

into the same old habits—from class to class to library then home.

Then I made the decision that changed my life: I joined cross country. Immediately, I began to find friends, and slowly but surely, I opened myself up to you guys, the wonderful people around me that I had closed out for so long.

I explored past the library, and I found the school, our school, a place where I finally belonged.

I found the inspiring teaching staff, who have molded us into the scholars and citizens we are today.

We’ve got our resident Irish expat, Mr. Spiers, who taught me the valuable lesson that 10 pages of Euro notes on the French Revolution is “too brief Kyle.” The gleefully eccentric Ms. Villalba, whose one-on-one speaking exams struck more fear into my heart

Stallion Pride Reflecting on a memorable four years at San Juan Hills

Hazel Mellem, San Juan Hills High School 2017 Scholar of Scholars. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Kyle Gray, San Juan Hills High School 2017 Scholar of Scholars. Photo: Allison Jarrell

I’d like to start by thanking the friends and families of the class of 2017, all my teachers and the rest of the San Juan Hills staff.

None of us would be where we are today if it weren’t for you. And of course, thank you to my fellow Stallions, who have become my family over the past four years. I wouldn’t wish to graduate with anyone else.

Reflecting on our time at San Juan Hills, I considered how we’ve all grown since our first day of ninth grade. Freshman year, we felt that strange combination of pride and shame—because we were finally in high school, but we were just awkward little freshmen. We learned not to look too directly at the ground of the quad during lunch, because the blaring white campus would blind you.

And our first pep rally—for Harry Potter homecoming—excited us little newbies.

Until, of course, we were booed for how badly we sucked at the rollercoaster.

But we still had three years ahead of us.

Then sophomore year came

san juan hills high School Class of 2017 Valedictorians (students with a cumulative GPA of 4.0 or higher) are listed in bold type. The Scholar of Scholars (students with the highest weighted GPAs) appear in red. Students earning academic distinction for GPAs of 3.5 to 3.99 are noted with an asterisk (*).

Cooper Wilson Abel Trevor David Abel Rex Bautista Abiang Emma Janell Adams Destinee Yasmine Aguayo Ciaran Padraic Aguirre-Stanton Rafael Alcala Lea Elizabeth Alcantara Chase Van Alen Caroline Marie Alexander Nathan James Allaire Jovanni Almodovar Jasmine Anderson Mark Masami Anzalone Ariana Apopei Jency Jazmin Argujo Inocente Mikayla Reece Arimura* Aaron Matthew Arnold Marissa Irene Arreola* Jose Armando Arvizo Mika Sebastian Astono David Ayala Sebastian Milan Alese Babros Brisna Nunez Bahena Enzo Michael Bak-Boychuk Dakota T. Baker Mikaela Helene Ballmer Scott Ryan Bargelski Cory River Barker Sidney Nicole Barney* Mason Scott Barns* Mariana Elizalde Barrera* Julia Barth-Reeves Madison Corene Bauman Petra Dorianne Beal Bruce William Becker II Madison Paige Beidler Matthew Caleb Bell Isabella Mariel Bellinghausen Annasophia Bellizzi Ashley Bello Nicholas James Belshe Jonathan Robert Benjamin Alexis Caroline Bennett Daniel Samson Berger Macey Paige Bergstrom Isaac Benjamin Berrett* Karan Bhatia Jade Cherie Bieser Ellie Claire Biglin* Brady James Bjorkman Kayla Ashley Black*

Natalie Elizabeth Blackwelder Matthew Wells Bloomberg Rachel Marie Blugrind Lauren Elizabeth Blum* Rebecca Leah Bogdanovic Evelyn Bohl Madison Dawn Boland* Megan Corrie Bolling* Sophie Rose Bolotin Megan Sahar Bost Jenna Grace Bowman Ellenor Georgia Brandt Rayanne Elizabeth Brandt Miguel Bravo Lily Kathleen Brechbill* Grayson Reagan Brengle Stephen Leo Brenner Darla Andrea Brito Ashtin Garrett Brooks Keely Ellissia-Marie Brown Cameron Jack Buchanan* Ashley Renee Buckley* Trevor Avery Buongiorno* James Vincent Burns Cole Bursey Julia Rose Buscemi Jacob Ryan Cain Jessica Calderon Frank Camarena Soto Nicole Ann Cappello Thomas Aurelio Cara Cesar Cardenas Albert Josef Carrison Blake Paul Casey Zachary Archer Casteel Trent Tomas Castillo* Stephanie Castro Austin Anthony Cavaliere Brock Christopher Cazel Brandon Matthew Ceballos* Spencer Javier Cendejas Esmeralda Cervantes Yulisa Barajas Cervantes Jaclyn Anne Charbonneau Cortney Nicole Chase* Liam James Childs Ashley Lauren Chittick Ye Eun Choi Hannah Reid Chon* Fotini Panayiota Christie Zachary Christopher Jacob Thomas Chung Serenity Star Church Ava Grace Cianciola Nicholas Michael Ciauri Amber Lee Clement Alicia Skye Clements Andre Cohen Derek Cohen Sydney Alyssa Cohen* Meagan Elizabeth Cole

Tamarre Kashari Collier* Jackson Oliver Collins Victor Anthony Compean Emily Dawn Conover* Anjelica Contreras Vega* Jared Thomas Cooper* Caleb Christian Cox Robert David Crist Isabella Frances Crocicchia* Ilma Cruz Jesus Daniel Cruz Pierre A. Cruzalegui Jesus Da Angelo Curielmag Kaylie Melissa Currier Madilyn Elyse Currier Brandon Mills Dalporto Ruby Jaye Daniels Connor Scott Davenport Hadley Sue Dayton Halle Nicole de Groot Rafael De la Cruz Karla De la Puente Parker Michael DeLaby Chase Gerard DeLaurie* Venecia Jaqueline Delgado Noriega Isabella Maria DelMonte* Michael Anthony DeMeo Hailey Marie dePoto* Marissa Elizabeth DeStefani* Joseph Michael Dey Nicholas Matthew Dey* Jackelyn Monserrat Diaz Desiray Emily Didier Anna Virginia Dieckmeyer Alana Marie Diersing Savannah Grace Dixon Eric Dominguez Adrian Dominguez Naomi Nicole Rayo Donato Cody Dean Dooley David Ryan Douvillier*

Cosette Isabella Drake Thomas Andrew Drasler Jack Robert Dryer Natalia Duarte Justin Alan Dunham Parker McKay Dunham Jordanna Lynn Dunn David John Duplissey Addison Sage Duran Carly Elizabeth Durant Esther Lauryn Durham Samantha Rose Eden Kaylee Diana Edgar Noah Thomas Edgerton Avery Claire Eichner Paul Michael Eiler III Zakaria Michael El Arabi Peter Nicolai Ellsworth Antonio Enciso Aidan Jeffery Epp Rafael Esquivel Jeremy David Estel Joshua David Estrada Christopher Everastico* Justin Scott Ewoldt* Kelly Pulido Fabian Perla H. Fabian Omar Navarro Fajardo Emma Elizabeth Faukner Thomas Jensen Fedoruk Max A. Ferber Edmond Nicholas Flaherty Justice L. Flenniken* Tania Elena Flores Luis Flores-Cervantes Eric Steven Forbes Mason Daniel Forbes Aidan Eduardo Freund Michaela Charis Fromm Diego Eduardo Fuentes Hernandez Josephina Andrea Gabriele Brittany Alyssa Garcia

Gabriella Garcia* Kennedy Rose Garman* Rachel Sara Gendusa* Ellie Gentry* Travis Jakob Gentry Grace Jeanine Gibson Celina Marie Gigliello Erica Janeen Gillis* Robert Quinn Ginieczki Kyle Patrick Giraldin Atli Gislason Jason Kyle Glass Connor Lloyd Glenn Brooke Shelby Goldfader Tate Lynne Goldhammer* Tristan Tyler Goldhammer Nicholas Ray Gonzales Kathy Gonzalez Michael Rivera Gonzalez Sarah Elizabeth Gonzalez Megan Emily Good Kristen Danielle Goodwin Julia Michelle Gordon Piper M. Graber* Mikayla Brook Grande Kyle Patrick Gray Max D. Grbic Skyler Nicole Gresham Kirsten Faith Griffith Sophie Lea Grigaux Christian Thomas Grimm Elena Gabrielle Guillen Jacob John Gundlach Chase Alexander Gustafson Hector Manuel Gutierrez Kimberly Elizabeth Gutierrez Wendy Jackeline Gutierrez Maximillian Jett Hammer Rylee Mae Hanes* Raina Iizuka Hannegan Ian Fletcher Happy* Payton Zachary Hardin

Mia Raquel Hargraves Ann Elizabeth Harm* Kylie Ann Harman Thomas Alexander Harvey Nicholas Anthony Hatz Wailana Rebekah Haumea Elle Grace Henriksen John Tovar Hernandez Carlos Herrera Moreno Christopher Arthur Hibler* Alanys Kyley Hilgen Brittany E. Hill Madison Rose Hirchag Alivia Rane Holbrook Olivia Christine Holt Jacob Scott Huff Tatem Rose Huggins Samuel Patrick Iacometti* Myles Cristian Isas* Fredie Jacinto Hannah Michelle Jackson Tyler A. Jaeckel Kayla Nicole Janes* Brayden Kirk Jenkins Justin H. Jeon Josephe Jimenez Hernandez Bradley Ryan Joffrion Chet Michael Johnson Jade Irene Johnston Derek William Jones* Eric Aidan Jones Mia Noelle Jones Mia Susan Jones Gabriela Alejandra Juarez-Barrera Melica Sarah Kajeh* Natalie Jasmine Karim Mitchell Louis Earl Kennamore Elissa Abdul Khalek Cameron Brian Kish Makenna Rose Kjellberg Tyler Martin Klassen Aaron Michael Kocourek* Julia Komosa Cory Kenichi Kono Elizabeth Paige Koritz Nicholas Cosmo Kosmides* Rose Swaddling Krol Maya Parvati Dandekar Kulkarni Maria Teresa Torres Labrador Jake Marcel Lachemann Shayah Elizabeth Renee LaCour Kyle Matthew Lambrakis Jessica Mae Larson Emma Sophia Law* Laurel Bell Lechuga Alexandra S. Lee Katie Jane Lee Riley Justine Leivas

Jordan Tyler Lesko Cindy Bin Li* Justin Mendoza Lina Charles KaiSunn Lindberg* Zoe Rain Lindberg-Smith Michaela Jayne Lindeman Jacob Lugo Linton Molly Litman* Amanda Grace Livingston Olivia Camillus Loconsolo Trevor Michael Long Emanuel Alejandro Lopez Victor Francisco Lopez Viviana Lopez Edna Marcela Lopez Serrano Reggie Dakota Lorincz* Tanner Hooper Loveridge Cynthia Lozada Gabriela Luna Delgado* Melia Caitlyn Luna Connor Reed Lynch* Jamie Madison Lyon Gabriella Lauren MacAdam Lindsay Rae Macdonald Sandy Jasmin Macias Luke Benjamin Magee Stephanie Nicole Magnelli Ryan Michael Magro Kanhaiya Mahabal* Emily Ann Mahoney* Lien Ai Mai* Zachary Bryan Malloch Andrew Michael Mansoor Carson Patrick Marchello Jordyn Alexandra Margolis* Jason Marin Alejandrina Martinez Sophia Rose Marzolo Alexandra Riley Mastropaolo Isabella Ashley Mastropaolo Sonja Ann Matienzo Joel Gregory Matters Natalie Rose Mauriello* Ian James McCarthy-Smith Brent O’Malley McClain Cayden Donald McCluskey Gabriella Mary McCormic Grace Leeann McCurdy James Joseph McDonald Sage William McFatridge Konrad Eston McKeague Kyle Owen McLemore Collin Travis McLeroy Troy Christopher Medeiros Alan Austin Medina Daniel Enrique Mejia Morales* Hazel Jane Mellem Michael Harrison Melo

Marissa Yvonne Meltzer Daniel Mendoza Jahdai Mendoza-Lopez Sydney Menosky Madilyn Rae Mercer* Benjamin Adam Meyerhoff Tomas David Meza Brian David Millat Hannah Marie Miller Niayla Shanice Miller* Zachary Thomas Miller Tyler Matthew Miltenberger Alison Nicole Miranda* Vanessa Ocampo Miranda Alyssa Jordan Mitchell* Natalie Maryam Moghadam Dhamar Molina Jack Garrett Montgomery Kaitlyn Sarah Moodie Aliyah Milene Mora Saige Marie Motley JonErik Aidan Moyles* Vanessa Moz Sydney Rebekah Munck* Erik Muniz Jacqueline Muniz Riley James Murphy Riley Marie Murr* Alexander Scott Naddor Kayla Anne Nahirny Esmeralda Nava Lucio David Nava Jaycie Hannah Naval Leanah Alysia Navarro Mina Alexis Nazari Emma Michelle Neu* Thomas Ngoy Devyn R. Nguyen

Emily Minh Nguyen Hunter Max Nicholas Aiden Michael Nolan Sarah Ann Marie Novak Madeleine Suzanne Oblea Leia Marie O’Brian Emily Aubrey O’Brien Bennett Bryan O’Connor Miguel Alonso Olague Daniel Q. Olswang Simon Elijah Orbe Claudia Orozco Pacheco Alexis Brighton Ortiz* David Ortiz Marreros Amanda Elizabeth Osborne Katrina Frances Ostrom Hayward Lorne Otterbein Jared Matthew Pagal Joe Palafox Melanie Alexis Parra Blake Corey Pascual Rosa Isela Pastrana Chandler Christopher Patlan Katrina Maria Elizabeth Pattinson* Jacob Taylor Paxton* Timothy Ryan Paysen Joshua Eddie Pedraza Michael John Pelleriti* Taylor Marie Pernicone Lauren Ellanie Perry Maggie Mae Peters Ryan Thinh Pho Jacob William Pilkington Bryan Henry Pope* Samantha Rayne Porras Kayla Pourreza* Noa Matthew Prados Lauren Rae Preasmyer

Timothy Neal Price Alexander Edward Priest* Luke Damon Pugliese Madison Grace Purkis Reilly Marie Puthuff* Tristan Daniel Pyle @Nicholas Aidan Quinn Grace Lee Rafferty* Ana Judith Ramirez Gabriela Ramirez Kira Emma Rapp Aishwaran Ratnam Lawrence Ray Micah James Ray* Christian Anthony Reda* Ashley Damyana Renteria Samuel Cocke Reynolds Rachel Leigh Rhoades Joshua Ryan Ribera Justin Thomas Ripperger Rachel Marie Ritchie Cameron Wylan Rizzi Gianna-Maria Roberts Dylan Austin Robinson* Christian Anthony Rocha Denise Lourdes Rodriguez Marco Rodriguez Margaret Lee Roh Giovanna Rose Romano Amanda Nicole Rooker Fernanda Rosales Chacon Fernando Rosales Samuel Drake Rose Christian Peter Rotschedl Brittany M. Roush* Jaclyn Helen Ruedisueli Tania Marlen Ruiz Luigi Sabay Brady Clare Sagert Jonathan Joseph Salgado Melissa Salgado Garcia Alexander Merrill Salinas Matthew Peter Salmon* Jennifer Sanchez Briggith Sanchez Maldonado Alejandro Sanchez Pedraza Camille Marie Sanseverino* Cruz David Neyman Santana Ivan Santana Alyssa Jenna Santmyer Danielle Satterwhite Alexis McKayla Sauk* Audrey Schreiner* Gabriella Joy Schultz Jessica Drew Scotty* Kenia Secundino Eric Hameedulla Sedique Jason Hibiki Seely Blanca Elena Segura Juliana Emma Serklew Berenice Serrano Quinn Marie O’Neil Shaw Hannah Noel Sheldon Ryan Maxwell Sherby Aaron Jee Ho Shin Kendra Marie Shreve Stephen Cole Sidles Laura Silva Austin Gary Silveria Weston Michael Simon Michael Justin Simonds Wendel George Simpson Katherine Rose Singer Jenna Siong

Evan Sisk Melia Danielle Sisola Alexis Sixtos Kevin R. Slater* Carson Patrick Smith Charlotte Alletta Smith Ryan Edward Kealoha Smith Joshua Bradly Smothers Austin Anthony Smykal Grace Katharyn Snyder Annalise Lauren Soares Colten Rex Sofonio Daniel Sonboli Lauryn M. Song Sophia Stebbins Daniel Matthew Sterling Laura Frances Sterns Rebekah Esther Sterns* Scott Robert Stevenson River Cayden Stewart Josephine Elizabeth StewartSakach Noah Dean Strommen Brock Allan Stuart Cori Shea Stuckey Cole Douglas Suchesk Kacie Lynn Swanson Sydney J’Nae Tagle Borna Bahram Talle Amelia Marie Tammel Jordan Alexander Tapias Jonathan Omar Tawil Bryce Patrick Thomas Christopher Phillip Hide Thomas Quinn Stewart Thompson Shannon Danielle Tilley Krynn Danielle Tilmont* Emma Eileen Tilton Karris Timko Shirley Catharina Timmerman Alexandra Nicole Tomich Alberto Torres Dara Paulina Torrescano Carrillo Kannon Michale Turner Cameron Tyler Julia Taylor Uhl* Morgan Taylor Utley Nikolas Andrew Vakis Jesse Xavier Valdivia Elijah D. Van Zanten Maria de Jesus Vargas Anthony Vazquez Kiara Vazquez Lourdes Vazquez Katya Anai Vazquez Solis Marisol Morales Velasquez Aine Claire Veon

Anthony John VerBurg Christopher Matthew VerBurg Carson Peter Verity Omar Vidal Meghan Rose Villalpando Ruben Rodriguez Villamil Angela Virgen Zuniga Lauren Vissman Marilu Viveros David Vincent Volk Avery Gwenyth Wagner Michael Christopher Walley Mitchell D. Ward* Shea McKenna Ward* Saxon Connor Welch Danielle Kahiloaaa Wellman Bryson Michael Westcott Lauren Jacqueline Weston* Sommer Whitaker Kody-Knight Sky Whitmer Catherine Leda Wilkes* Griffin Duane Willett Kailey Nicole Wilson Lainey Gwendolyn Wilson Trevor Bradley Wise Samantha Rachel Wold Axel Wolf Salazar Mia McCall Wood* John Patrick Workman Adam Parrish Wright Madison Taylor Wyatt Caroline Elizabeth Wyckoff * Logan G. Yarak* Connor Dwight Yartz* Madison Taylor Yashar* Sophia April Yates-Marshall Ashkon Yavarinia* Sarah Kimberly Yeager* Maya Aviva Yesharim Zackary Marc Zalta Olivia Ashley Zappone* Lily Noelle Zeleznik Valerie Shae Ziesmer*

Saddleback Valley Christian School Class of 2017 ** Scholar of Scholars * Valedictorian National Honor Society

Nicholas Sherfield Andrews Jonathan Forde Arnoldus Marc Alan Audet Emma Joy Benis* Jackson Taylor Bierly Nathaniel James Cantwell Nicholas Michael Cantwell Joshua Steven0Cleye Jordan Ashley0Cortez Willis Ty Cox Seth Isaac Crandall Anna Cristina Crow* Joshua0Giovanni Crutchfield Ariana Davalos-Zadeh Fengyi Ding Wenze Ding Susan JiXiao Edmondson Cole Robinson Etchells* Cole Landon Ewing David Sadao Hamada

Hunter Wesley Harner Cade Michael Henjum* John James House Celine Nicole Hoyle** Kayle Ann Hunn Zach Ismirnioglou Ellis Grant Jensen Bojin Jiang Yichen Jiang Hadley Makenna-Paige Jones Rotimi Kebba0Kirya* Alexander Paul Lattime Kaicheng Liang Jiamin Lin Sydney Renee Linnes Jaden Jeffrey Loftis Xin Ma Hannah Marie Maffris Shannon Nicole McCarthy Victor Felix Mena, III Jonathon David Minsberg Sydney Marie Page Jacob Andre Pelletier*

Rachel Celeste Peters Jordan James Pop Marisa Nicole Ramsey Jonathan Derick Robinson Kyle Campbell Rutman Daysi Salinas Jimenez Benjamin Robb Samuel Delaney May Samuelian

Bridger Adam0Schippa* Gabriel Taylor Schippa* JoshuaEdward Sheldon Zachary Edward Sherwood Trey Davis Smith* Alexander David Sokolowski SkylerRose Stratton Jiayi Sun

Joshua Stewart Tansley Ian David Towles Ellyana Angelique Wright Jianuo Xu Xiaogang Xu Dean Edward Yancey Ilseung Yang Taylor Jane Zaengle Yucheng Zhu

JSerra Catholic High School Class of 2017 ** Valedictorian * Salutatorian

Nicholas Abusaid Jadie Acidera Julia Ackerman Manuel Aguirre Daniel Akerlind Matthew Alinsod Spencer Allen Sofia Andrade Petar Antonic Nicholas Aranda Kerry Ashkenaze Samantha Avera Cinthia Avila Edward Ayala Yiman Bai Chase Bailey Alexandria Balsz Samuel Barr Joshua Barri Kassidy Bellas Noah Berrios Kailey Beuerlein Delaney Bien Daniel Blackburn Sean Blackmer Madison Bolokowicz Brennan Boone Isabelle Bowman Natalie Boyle Rachel Brack Richard Bradley Emily Brady* Ethan Briggs Spencer Bronco Stewart Brown Kimberly Brown Krista Brown Natasha Brown Jacob Brunelle James Bunnel Madeline Burke Joseph Bussone Collin Butier Huakun Cai Nicholas Callen Charles Cariello Stuart Carson Hayden Carter Aileen Casillas Eileen Casler Mengyuan Chai Trevor Charles Pengcheng Chen Zhonghong Chen Daojie Chen Yu Hong Chen Sophia Cianfrani

Anthony Ciraci Rhett Cook Thomas Corkery Ognjen Cosic Alexis Cuff Jack Davis Juliana de Bie Sebastian de la Fuente Tessa De Mari Catalina Dentzel Helmy Jadyn Dessalines Maya Diab Shengnan Dong Hang Dong Julie Doyle Victoria Draper Lia Dueker Alyssa Duncan Kyle Duran Connor Dutton Nicholas Earl Mason Emes Dylan Euzarraga Omeed Fakhimi Anthony Fanticola Matthew Feldmann** Mary Flanagan Matthew Flanagan Antoinette Flores Victoria Fonseca Nicole Font David Garberich Dugan Garrison Ty Gaskins John Geary Anthony Georgopoulos Tomas Germann Jack Giacobetti Samantha Giacobetti McKayla Giacobetti Katie Glavinovich Emily Gloyne Katharina Goerlich Graham Golley Natalie Granito William Griswold Ryan Gutierrez-Smith Christian Hannis Peyton Hansen Maisie Harmon Bianca Hawlish Yike He Brandon Herbert Kayla Hess Ryan Hickey Samantha Hobert Phoebe Hoes Selma Horn Griffin Howard Paige Howard

Photos: Mark Chodzko

Isha Huston Bryan Hustrulid Stephanie Inchaustegui Tyler Jablonski Shiyu Ji Samuel Johnson Cameron Jonas Jett Jordan Zena Kataf Dominique Keane-Cawrse Samuel Keighley Aidan Kelley Sebastian Kharileh Kayla Kmett Lauren Knight Raymond Kofdarali Lisa Kohler William Koss Mikaela Kramer Kristen Kraniger Krista Krantz Riley Kuo Kendall Kupferberg Michael La Chapelle Jefferson Lan Hu Nicole Larson Lucie Laskowski Michelle Lazaran Amadea Lenger Kathleen Leslie Royce Lewis

Zhiting Li Bowen Li Zhangsheng Lian Claire Linnemann Jiayin Liu Melissa Locke Tyler Loftus Corinne Lora Patrick Mahoney Blake Majano Tyler Martinez Fernando Martinez Noelle Massengill Michael McClellan Jon McClintock Alyssa McConkey Joshua McCrae Kayla McFarland Thomas McIver Richard McKeown Gunner McLaughlin Jack McManus Jonathan McMullin Naseem Memar Tyler Merrell Mariah Meyer Jihong Min Christopher Mirigian Live Moe Derek Monroe Ryder Montano

Caleb Monticone Emily Moran Jillian Moyers Sebastian Much Adam Naami Hangyal Nam Hunter Neal Elie Nguyen Chantal Nolet Ryan Noorian Claire Noring Aiyah Obeid Riley O’Brien Minwoo Oh Elijah Ortiz Jack Owen Casey Paganelli Joshua Pahomi Justin Paige William Parton Jacquelyn Partsch Nicola Pedersen James Pendergrass Matthew Petersen Skye Petersen Adreanna Pham Ryan Pham Trevor Phillips Karli Pieropan Thomas Pincus Johnny Porrello

Dante Powell Luke Prendiville Yihan Qi Ethan Racker David Ramirez Cassandra Rasich Taline Ratanjee Jarad Reimer Sydney Reinart Chase Reinecke Bryan Richardson Michael Richardson Devin Rieger Maxwell Rist Preston Robinson Paul Roman Alexa Rydell

Brian Sad Sina Sadri Victoria Sage Amber Salas Kayhan Salmi Cole Samuels Ryan Sanchez Rachael Sandoval-Jaworski Joshua Schubert Leanne Schwartz Gianna Scotto Kian Sedghi Samantha Senske Lorenzo Serio Anthony Shara Sierra Shortt Katharina Shultz

Capistrano Valley Christian School Class of 2017

Allison Smith Stephanie Snedegar Raquel Solorzano Samantha Spence Jordyn Squiers Ryan ST. John Lukas Stashik Christopher Steinker Robert Strickland Matthew Sullivan Brett Sveningson Corrina Tadros Luis Tellez-Rodriguez Rachel Test Landon Thomas Jacob Thomas-Smith Fengyuan Tian

Vivian Tme Conor Tope Colin Townsend Giselle Tran Zelan Tupuola McKenna Ulnick Christopher Ursetta Alexis Vail Jessica Vaisz Michaela Wagner Meaghan Wagner Emily Wagstaff Yifei Wang Yanxiang Wang LingLi Wang Sidney Ward Cassidy Wendell

Nicholas Wharrie Mia Willett Luke Williams Ricky Woo Keegan Wright Zuhua Wu Mingyin Xie Bingchen Xu Qing Ye Kayla Zakhour Ruining Zhang Yingzhu Zheng Haohua Zheng Zeya Zhou Guoguang Zhou Lianxi Zhou Cameron Zwierlein

** Valedictorian * Salutatorian

Claire Ferguson Garin Green Joshua Guy** Carissa Huntting Julia Jedinak Adam Juarez Nolan Kahal Haneal Kebede Zoe Kim Talia Knowles** Claire Landino* Sean Li Dylan Lourenco* Alex Mansfield Aaden Marton Zach Mendez Jackson Miller Jacob Moffatt

Matthew Moscosa Marina Ogawa Sullivan Pecharka Dawson Piper

Andre Antone Elizabeth Babick Katelynn Baird Gavin Barkema Matthew Bergeron Jacob Carreon Nathan Castillo Jessica Castillo Krystal Chen Karissa Da Kendall Dallape Luca DeLeone Mike Deng Lucas Devito Chloe Dingwall Abigail Dougherty

Tyler Piston Kameron Reyes Alexis Rucker David Santistevan Nick Schuetze Micah Spaulding Max Wang Michael Williams Tim Yu Aitong Yu Heman Zhang Yuki Zhang

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Class of 2017 ** Valedictorian * Salutatorian

Jonathan R. Acosta Alondra Ajoleza Martinez Nicholas Gregory Amoukhteh Tyler Ashman Katalina Maria Aviles Ashley Nicole Bahena Maxwell Michael Bienert Garth Ryan Blumenthal Natalie Michelle Bosu Avery Louise Bren Stefan Kendrick Bren Sydney Ann Brinker Kenneth Nicholas Brown Alexis Courtney Brynjolfsson Nicole Erin Brynjolfsson Emma McCormick Butler Brennan Charles Campbell Kevin Keoni Caruana Alex Jung-Ho Choi Lauren Michelle Clements Blake Catherine Crawley Maria Cruz Gutierrez Stephanie Marie Daboub Emma Frances Danly Jeremy Dylan Davis Luke Christian Desforges Shane Micky Dhillon James Herbert Eidt Sharareh Nayereh Famili Kayla Yasmin Farahbod Kayla June Faraji Whitney Grace Fohrman William Joseph Fournier Tyler S. Genevay Luke Avery Gitter

Nicolas Jackson Gitter Madison Belle Golledge Anika Grover Jessica Claire Guerinot Chaohui Sally Guo Hailey Rose Hageman Matthew Hamadani Nicola Joseph Hanna Mitchell Wyatt Hart Elizabeth Nicole Haugan Casey Veronica Healy Joel Thomas Holsinger Tyler David Horgan Christian Burke Jacobs Lew Wallace Jacobs Tyler Justin Jones Connor Thompson Jordan Lucy Jane Kamgar Carolyn Elizabeth Kellner Jong-seok Kim Kylie Chan Kowalske Chris Efstathios Krantz George Robert Krantz Nicholas Terris Krantz Thomas Akira Kwa* Catherine Jeanne Landaas Jin Lee Jocelyn Marie Yuyun Leung Scott Charles Lilly Auston Robert Locke Daniela Gloria Luna Cameron S. Manor Rose McCarver Erica Kimberly Keppler Mendel Elika Colette Miller Makenna Cecilia Mitchell Michael Bradley Morgan Aide Lizeth Najera

Isabella Oedekerk Rebekah Olsen Joshua Ong Anne Sarah Otterbein Emma Leslie Paddon Devon Marie Palladini Reilly Nicole Parkhill Kate Marie Parks Katherine Emily Parrish Ryan Elizabeth Penske Jana Leigh Phillips Savannah Nicole Ramirez Kate Elizabeth Ramm Azzurra-Sky Riley Colby A. Rogers William Taylor Rosenthal Michael Rubenacker Ashley Nicole Salcido Lucas Pierce Santora Nicholas Tyler Scheel Katharine Isabel Schwartz Josephine Louise Shaw Neal Singh Charles Michael Smith** Logan Smith Ariana Joan Stillman James Alexander Swanson Andrew John Sweeney Elise Anne Talley Julien Russell Thurin Charles French Toney Emily Van Duinen Nicholas Richard Visconti Jack William Westhead Ryan Arthur Wilson Jack Joiner Wolcott Michaela K Wolcott Coen Reid Zediker

SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 10)

REBUTTAL TO JIM KEMPTON’S GUEST OPINION —Ron Bacon, San Juan Capistrano In response to the Guest Opinion by Jim Kempton published in the May 26-June 8 edition of The Capistrano Dispatch: For Mr. Kempton to argue that there is no reputable disagreement with the conclusions of 97 percent of climate scientists is a canard in both substance and approach. Science is often advanced when one person, with contrary evidence, refuses to buckle under the pressure of the majority. Also, the 97 percent figure is false and intended to mislead. When precisely did 97 percent of scientists vote on this issue? And, even if they did some kind of voting, their views are by definition not representative, as they were never elected and so do not represent anyone other than themselves.

The three important questions in this debate are: First, is the climate changing or are we simply seeing natural variation that is common to all living and dynamic systems? Second, if so, do humans have a hand in this change? If humans are primarily to blame for the change in climate, how much of the change do they account for?

Are proposals, such as the Paris climate accord, projected to make any substantive changes to the contribution that humans may be making on the change in climate?

(By the way, the answer is no, the Paris climate accord will only hamper the industrial and business progress of developed nations and will have virtually no impact on the alleged manmade climate changes despite billions of dollars expended). And finally, if the climate is changing and humans have a significant hand in causing it, is it lethal to life? There may be changes, but changes can be seen in the geologic and archaeological records, and humans are still thriving. Humans seem to actually do better in warmer climates as food grows at a faster rate there than in colder areas, so the net change would likely be beneficial, unless you live along a coast.

Let me also point out that real estate prices can’t be manipulated by junk science, and if manmade climate change was so clear and the facts so evident, wouldn’t the beachfront real estate prices be going down or at least not going up? Unfortunately, even in Manhattan, an area claimed from the sea by landfill, the prices of properties are continuing to rise. Perhaps the U.N. will consider voluntarily moving from their “dangerous” current location to a place where they won’t need to tread water to be able to get in the front doors? Apparently even the U.N. doesn’t believe the hysteria of the manmade climate change believers. If there is a “no” to any of the three questions listed above, the issue is moot and the efforts of Mr. Kempton and other manmade climate change believers are revealed to be political/religious and should be dismissed by those who don’t care to be manipulated by mass hysteria, The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

particularly from those in the supposed scientific community.

THE OTHER SIDE OF CLIMATE CHANGE —John Mitchell, San Juan Capistrano There can be no doubt climate change is real. One only has to look at North American glaciers—most are receding and have been doing so for many years prior to the relatively recent increase in CO2. At the Athabasca Glacier in Alberta, there are markers on the walkway from the parking lot showing the location of the receding face for about the last 80 years.

Climate is clearly a cyclical phenomenon. Twelve thousand or so years ago, Chicago was under approximately 1,000 feet of ice from the glacier that carved the great lakes. Cleveland, Buffalo and New York City were, too. Boulders in Central Park were an early gift from Canada shoved there by the advancing glacier. If you know what you are looking for, the glacial moraine is visible in the drive to JFK Airport.

Vikings colonized North America in the tenth century in a place they called Greenland. They lived and survived on locally grown crops for about 500 years. Paintings in European museums clearly show colder conditions in the 16th and 17th centuries than exist today. Colder conditions forced the Vikings from Greenland.

The carbon capture and release cycle cited as a cause for climate change is a natural cycle. Carbon released by many sources is essential for plant and sea life and rock formation where it is absorbed to be recycled. In fact, increasing levels of CO2 accelerate plant growth. While humans are certainly altering the rates of both release and absorption, we are not creating or destroying carbon. The carbon inventory originated within an earlier star.

There are three essential questions pertaining to climate change: What is the percentage of human-caused climate change within a natural cycle? Is this a danger? And are there realistic and feasible objectives to reduce manmade contribution short of returning to rather brutal living conditions prior to the industrial revolution?

Answers and solutions are not aided by pejoratives such as denier and conspiracy.

People who are willing to listen are forced into extreme camps—you are either a true believer or not. As in so many instances the real answer likely resides somewhere in the middle. Improving energy efficiency is good; attempting to dramatically alter the energy production mix by statute before the technology is proven and the effects clear is likely not so good.

The population of North America at the turn of the 16th century is estimated to be between 5 and 20 million, certainly living without any appreciable use of fossil fuels.

Today, the population of the same approximate area is something over 400 million, largely relying on fossil fuels for energy and economic success. The energy to sustain civilization and allow poorer parts

of the world to elevate living standards is likely to remain based on fossil fuels for the foreseeable future.

The dream of a civilization independent of fossil fuels with current or anticipated technology would require a significant reduction in some combination of population and/or living standards. Even assuming that 50 percent of current energy needs could be replaced by sustainable sources, dramatic changes would be required to attain the objective.

The question is whether today’s population is willing to significantly reduce the aspirations, benefits and living standards of modern life to address a potential condition in the distant future based on computer projections.

When critically examined, the heavily promoted scientific consensus that states global warming caused by human-produced greenhouse gas is a major danger does not exist and is not supported by evidence.

IN RESPONSE TO ‘LIFE UNDER THE FLIGHT PATH’ —Marvin Smith, Dana Point My first thought after reading “Hundreds of South OC Residents Gather to Discuss Life ‘Under the Flight Path,’” (The Capistrano Dispatch, May 26-June 8) was, “Air traffic noise? What noise?” Maybe I’ve failed to notice over the prevailing and ever-present hum of the 5 freeway. Or possibly I’ve been deafened by the growing number of Harley riders trying to outrace middle-age. Then there’s the cacophony of leaf blowers that now compete with songbirds for who will signal the start of a new day. And skateboarders…well, never mind. You get the point. These are sounds now endemic to life in SoCal. John Wayne Airport didn’t just rise up from the ground. It probably predates most of the affected houses and their residents. No doubt, air traffic has increased—as it has in most economically vital areas of the country. (Ah, remember the peace and quiet of the Great Recession?) But according to Supervisor Todd Spitzer, it’s those greedy and callous airlines that are ruining the quality of life in the OC. All in the name of efficiency, heaven forbid!

Then Supervisor Lisa Bartlett invoked the name of the devil himself, the FAA— a.k.a the federal government. (Cue the hisses!) Of course those bureaucrats could “probably” fix the flight path problem, as they confided to Bartlett. But why would they? At least not without the heroics of our county supervisors.

And in the process, if successful, Supervisors Bartlett and Spitzer will find a way to drive up the costs of serving JWA. While pushing the flight noise problem elsewhere, along with the economic benefits of those flights.

Fifteen years ago the voters of OC were offered a new airport at El Toro and shot it down in order to build the Great Park.

Well, the Not-So-Great Park. The most

Page 23

organized and vocal opposition to a new airport came from South County communities—no doubt, many of the same folks who are now complaining about increased noise from JWA. My recommendation: consider relocating to some of the abundant and peaceful spaces in the Great Park.

BROUGH’S VOTE AGAINST AB 1269 DISREGARDED CONSTITUENTS —Carol Brinkman, San Juan Capistrano Dear Assemblyman William Brough, As a parent, I am sure we can agree that when we tell our son or daughter that curfew is midnight, we must be prepared to enforce that rule, or the rule becomes meaningless and your child has no incentive to obey. It is the same with the Mobilehome Residency Laws (MRL).

If there is no consequence for disregarding the law, the rules become meaningless and ineffective.

That’s why I wonder how you could justify your “no” vote on AB 1269, the “Mobilehome Residents and Senior Protection Act?” This bill provides a dispute resolution and enforcement program within the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) to resolve disputes related to the MRL (the written rules that regulate the relationship between landlords and homeowners in a mobile home park). DFEH already has procedures to investigate and resolve disputes by mediation, negotiation or civil court action, and this bill simply expands their oversight to include mobile home parks. The fiscal impact is neutral since any additional cost is paid for by fines imposed for violations and an annual $5 per mobile home fee that the residents of the park pay. AB 1269 makes no changes to the substance of existing laws nor does it diminish property owner’s rights. It simply provides a process to resolve disputes within the MRL between owners and residents. Homeowners’ only recourse now is civil court, an expensive process that few residents can afford.

In just the small city of San Juan Capistrano where I live, there are nine mobile home parks with 1,213 homes housing approximately 2,000 residents—that’s 2,000 voters. I am surprised and disappointed that you ignored hundreds of those voters who took time to call your office asking you to vote yes on the bill. I doubt you got even one call soliciting a no vote. But rather than listen to the needs of your constituents, you decided to vote the party line without consideration for the people you represent. It is something that you will have to answer for during the next election. Two thousand people in your constituency have a very loud voice: we walk precincts, make phone calls and we vote! I ask that you listen to us.

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

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

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

SAN CLEMENTE CAR SHOW 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Downtown Business Association will host the 22nd Annual Car Show in downtown San Clemente. The show is expected to bring in more than 300 show cars from classic to exotic. The event and is free to the public. There will also be slot car races, a rock climbing wall, food trucks, music and a live band. Family Assistance Ministries will raffle items all day. Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente.

949.218.5378. www.villagesanclemente.org.

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

Friday | 09 DANA POINT TROLLEY HOP 2 p.m. Ride the trolley around the city and participate in the third annual trolley hop.

More than a dozen city restaurants will have food and drink specials. A $10 trolley hop mug must be purchased to participate. www.danapointlda.com.

DANA POINT MOVIE IN THE PARK 7:30-10 p.m. Bring the family and enjoy a free screening of Zootopia. Bring a low-back chair or a blanket and join the city this summer during the movies in the park. There will be free popcorn. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern Road, Dana Point. 949.248.3536.

SAN CLEMENTE MOVIE IN THE PARK 7:30 p.m. Grab the family for a viewing of Secret Life of Pets. The movie is part of the city of San Clemente’s summer movie screening series. There will be a Playschool open house, food served by Baby’s Burger OC and Kona Ice. Tierra Grand Park. 399 Camino Tierra Grande, San Clemente.

LIVE THEATER: MORE… SENIOR MOMENTS 8 p.m. When elderly Rose catches her husband with another woman in the nursing home, she decides to go on a quest for sexual adventure. The show continues through June 11. Tickets are $20. Camino Real Playhouse. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

SUNSET MOONRISE HIKE 8-10 p.m. Join The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo for a hike in the twilight and the moonlight. The event is for ages 8 and up.

Register by Thursday, June 8 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children. The Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy.

28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

Saturday | 10 SHARK SAFARI 8 a.m. Captain Dave is hosting a shark safari aboard the Fast Cat which offers guests an up-close view at the animals.

The vessel has a capacity of 12 passengers, and seats fill quickly. Tickets are $65. Shark Safaris run Tuesday through Sunday. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale SaThe Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

BEND & BREW 11:30 a.m. iHeartYoga holds a Bend & Brew session at Left Coast Brewing Company’s tasting room in San Clemente.

It’s a one-hour yoga class followed by a pint of beer. Admission $10. 1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.363.3152. www. iheartyoga.com.

EDITOR’S PICK Photo: Allison Jarrell

SATURDAY, JUNE 10: 14TH ANNUAL RELAY FOR LIFE OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 9:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life at the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park is open to the public and provides a chance to fight back against the disease, celebrate people who have battled cancer and remember loved ones lost. The free 12-hour event features a survivor breakfast, opening ceremony, games, drawings and prizes, live music and dancing, a luminaria ceremony and a closing ceremony. For a full schedule of events, follow “Relay for Life of San Juan Capistrano” on Facebook. San Juan Capistrano Sports Park. 1 Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano. For more information, email jwohlfiel@fluidmaster.com.

fari. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.488.2828. www.dolphinsafari. com/shark-safari.

SHARK SEARCH ADVENTURE 11:30 a.m. Join Dana Wharf aboard the OCeanAdventures Catamaran and search for great whites, mako, thresher, blue and hammerhead sharks during a two hour trip. Tickets are $45 per person, $29 for children. Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.2240603. www.danawharf.com.

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Head to the Swallow’s Inn for a full day of music. Food from Lisa’s Kitchen will be available throughout the afternoon. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

SOUTH COAST SINGERS: THROUGH THE YEARS 4 p.m. The musical group will take guests on a fast-paced stroll through the musical lanes of the 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Songs from artists Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, The Everly Brothers, Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra and more will be included. Tickets range $10-$20 and can be purchased at www. southcoastsingers.org/our-concerts/. St.

Andrews by the Sea. 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente.

SWING FESTIVAL 6-10 p.m. The San Clemente Community Center will be jumping with sounds of music, dancing and good times during the 24th annual “Big Bad-Swing Night.”

Period attire from the 1940s and 1950s is welcome! 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente. 949.361.6529. www.sanclementerotary.org.

SECOND STAGE STAND-UP 7:30 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse hosts a lineup of four comedians on the second Saturday of each month. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is $17.50; reservations are recommended. To purchase tickets, call 949.489.8082 or visit www. comedyintheoc.com. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Sunday | 11 GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park.

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

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

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BLUEGRASS & BBQ 4-7 p.m. Enjoy the authentic sounds of Burning Heart Bluegrass Band while dining on barbecue selections. At 4:30 p.m., Burning Heart Bluegrass will give a special workshop where they’ll discuss the origins of bluegrass music, the role of individual instruments, vocal syles and the state of the music today. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door for adults, children 12 and under are $10 in advance and $13 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at www.lagunabeachlive.org or by calling 800.595.4849. Laguna College of Art & Design. 2222 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.

Monday | 12 COMBAT GOLF TOURNAMENT 11 a.m. Join the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group during the 8th annual tournament to benefit 5th marines and wounded warriors. Tickets are $200 and include golf, lunch, dinner and prizes.

Individuals can also sponsor marines or wounded warriors to play. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club. 26772 Avery Parkway, Mission Viejo. www.danapoint5thmarines.com/ events/2017-combat-golf.

Tuesday | 13 LECTURE: THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY 7-8:30 p.m. Join the Reserve and discover the weird and wonderful world of bats.

Michelle Rivers, bat enthusiast and UK Bat Worker, will tell different facts about the bats that live in neighborhoods and the rest of the world. Participants should register by 2 p.m. on Tuesday, June 13.

The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

Wednesday | 14 YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this summer. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S 9:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s with food and drink specials.

There will be local and professional talent.

2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente.

949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

Thursday | 15 LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens volunteers, students and teachers at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano. Help care for and maintain native plants and butterflies while enjoying a little dirt therapy and friendship. Every Thursday. No experience needed. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

SHARK LECTURE AT THE OCEAN INSTITUTE 6-8 p.m. Dr. Chris Lowe of the Cal State University Long Beach shark lab will discuss sharks, their behavior and the research done at the lab. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the lecture will begin at 6:15 p.m.

Cost is $10. Register online at www.oceaninstitute.org/guest-lecture-series-sharks or call 949.496.2274. Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

SAN CLEMENTE BEACH CONCERT 6 p.m. Head down to the beach and enjoy music and surf. Fisherman’s Restaurant will provide a BBQ dinner for $8 per person while Wigs & Ties performs. The concert is part of the city of San Clemente’s beach concert series. 622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente.

Friday | 16 MISSION ART WALK 11 a.m. A docent-guided tour highlighting the art collection of rare paintings related to the Mission’s history. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

‘FINDING DORY’ AT THE OCEAN INSTITUTE 5 p.m. The Ocean Institute will present Finding Dory during a family party/movie screening. There will be family-friendly activities, food trucks and more. Seating will be first come, first-served picnic style and families can bring blankets and pillows.

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Doors open at 5 p.m. with the moving beginning at 6 p.m. Cost is $10 per person or $30 for a family four-pack. Ocean Institute.

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute. org/event/finding-dory-party.

Saturday | 17 THE WACKY WORLD OF POLLINATION 9:30-10:30 a.m. In honor of National Pollinator Week, join the Tree of Life Nursery for a discussion on the world of pollinators, from bees and wasps to butterflies and hummingbirds. 33201 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

FATHER’S DAY OUTDOOR ART SHOW & SALE 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The Dana Point Fine Arts Association will host their Father’s Day outdoor sow and sale on June 17 and 18.

There will be a variety of art and guests will be able to speak to the artists. The event is weather permitting. The event will be along Dana Point Harbor Boardwalk in Mariner’s Village. www.danapointfinearts.org.

SMART GARDENING 101: WHAT’S BUGGING YOUR GARDEN 9:30-11 a.m. Learn about what’s bugging your garden during a free class during the 2017 Smart Gardening 101 Series with Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens and the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Master Gardeners. Reata Park and Event Center. 28632 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. 949.606.6704. www.goinnative.net.

BAT WALK 7:30-9:30 p.m. Take an evening walk with bath enthusiast Michelle Rivers to find out which bats live in Orange County.

There will be “bat detectors” and guests can learn about the natural history of local bats. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Participants should register by 4 p.m. on Friday, June 16. The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

LIVE MUSIC: HARBOR CRUISE 8 p.m. Every Saturday through October 28, join Dana Wharf for a live music cruise around the Harbor. Guests can listen to Waterhouse will perform aboard the Dana Pride. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. www.danawharf.com.

Sunday | 18 FATHER’S DAY HIKE 9-11 a.m. Take a Father’s Day hike on the trail through oak woodlands and sage scrub. Tickets are $10 for adults are $10 (Cont. on page 26) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

At the Movies: ‘Wonder Woman’ Finds Her Way Home

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

t only took over half a century, but after numerous comics, cartoons and TV shows, we finally received a Wonder Woman feature film. Lots of hype had been generated since Gal Gadot was announced as the title character, and expectations waned after the disappointments of the first three attempts by Warner Bros.’ new DC franchise with Man of Steel (2013), Batman vs. Superman (2016) and Suicide Squad (2016).

On a magical Amazonian island, Princess Diana (Gadot) is raised by her mother, Queen Hippolyta (Connie Nielsen) and her aunt, General Antiope (Robin Wright), to be a strong warrior.

When a male stranger by the name of Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) suddenly crashes into their world, Diana discovers that there is a war going on back on Earth in 1918. Diana decides to follow him back to his home, not only to help fight, but also to discover her own family background.

Patty Jenkins directs Wonder Woman and makes big steps forward from Zack Snyder’s and David Ayers’ previous failed attempts with DC. This new

(Cont. from page 25) scrub. Tickets are $10 for adults are $10 and $5 for children. Participants should register by 4 p.m. on Friday, June 16. The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

FATHER’S DAY ADVENTURE AT SEA 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hop aboard a voyage on a real tallship. For Father’s Day, families can enjoy breakfast on the historic maritime wharf and then set sail on the Spirit of Dana Point. Guests can join the crew in handling lines and raising the sails, steer the ship or just sit back and relax.

Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

Wednesday | 21 SAN JUAN SUMMER NITES CONCERT: REDNECK RODEO 6-8 p.m. Enjoy live music, free activities for kids, vendors, a beer and wine wagon, and more. Historic Town Center Park.

31852 El Camino Real, San Clemente.

949.496.5911. www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

© 2017 Warner Bros. Entertainment,, Inc. and Ratpac Entertainment, LLC. Photo Credit: Clay Enos/ TM & © DC Comics

movie has a coherent plot and narrative, and the editing is competent this time around. Gadot and Pine are fine leads with a surprisingly high level of chemistry, and Gadot, in particular, proves the naysayers wrong that she was miscast physically. The one thing that makes the film decent, rather than great, is the script—particularly the dialogue—which at times comes across as cliché and corny. But for a blockbuster with some new flashy girl power, Woman does fine. CD

SUMMER JAZZ WEDNESDAYS 6-8 p.m. Laguna Beach Live! Summer Jazz Wednesdays run June 21 through Aug. 30.

The first show will feature Bijon Watson and the Latin Jazz Syndicate. Tickets can be purchased online for $25 for table seating and $20 for side seating. Tickets at the door are $25-$30. Season tickets can also be purchased online. Reservations are accepted until noon on the day of the concert or until sold out. Hotel Laguna, Rose Garden.

425 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach.

949.715.9713. www.lagunabeachlive.org.

Friday | 23 BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT CRUISE 8-10 p.m. Hop aboard the Ocean Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer to witness marine birds, sea lions, and bioluminescent plankton.

There is a second cruise for June on Saturday, June 24. Cost is $24-$45. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

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

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SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

‘Doggie Showdown’ Raises Awareness for Local Rescues PHOTOS AND TEXT BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

an Juan’s Historic Town Center Park nearly reached its cute threshold on Saturday as local animal rescues, dogs and their humans attended the first ever Old Town Doggie Showdown fundraiser.

Event organizers from San Clemente rescue Fur-Ever Home said they plan to hold the fundraiser annually. This year’s event also featured three San Juan Capistrano rescues—The Zuri Pet Rescue, The Ark of San Juan and Doggie Bonez—as well as Orange County-based Leashes of Love Rescue.

The fundraiser included vendors, raffle drawings and prizes, as well as an obstacle course and a variety of contests. Cynde

GUEST OPINION: Branching Out by San Juan Capistrano Library Staff and the Friends of the Library

Literary Summer

Van Vleet, board president of Fur-Ever Homes, said she wanted to emphasize the importance of positive reinforcement training for all dogs with the contests and obstacle course.

“We want to encourage people to train their dogs, especially their rescues,” Van Vleet said. “What better way to show people how fun it is to have trained dogs than with an event like this?

Van Vleet also noted that “not all trainers are created equal.” She recommends dog owners check for certifications when selecting a trainer.

For information on certified trainers, visit the website for the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers at www.ccpdt.org. CD

T

he library offers an array of summer reading opportunities for both children and adults.

It’s summer—time for fun in the sun!

How about taking a book with you?

Summer reading programs are starting all over the country to encourage kids of all ages to keep reading over the summer break. It’s a great time to pick up that book you’ve always meant to read, select a new genre to try and take the kids to the public library to check out something fun.

This year’s theme for the San Juan Capistrano Library’s summer reading program is “Reading by Design.” The program runs from June 19 through July 31, and registration has already begun.

Children and teens can sign up online at ocpl.readingbydesign.org and earn digital badges for the time they spend reading, or they can come into the library and pick up a paper log to keep track of their reading time. Weekly prizes will also be awarded at the library to kids and teens who join in.

Summer reading isn’t just for kids.

The popular “Blind Date with a Book” adult summer reading program will be returning to the SJC library through July 31 (or while supplies last). All adults, 18 and older, are encouraged to participate and read any book, e-book, magazine, audiobook or whatever catches their eye. Need a recommendation? Library staff is always happy to help, and they love it when materials are checked out and taken home.

Pick up an adult summer reading program log at the library, and for every 10 hours of reading or listening to an audiobook, you can return to claim your

Lauren Ramirez, of Palmdale, bonds with a 9-week-old puppy up for adoption from Doggie Bonez rescue in San Juan.

Kelley Peeden and her 5-year-old boxer bulldog, Laila, pose for a photo after Laila won the sit and stay contest.

The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

Nova, a 5-year-old pug-Chihuahua mix, competes in a sit and stay contest.

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“Blind Date” book, DVD, CD or audiobook to keep.

Additional activities are also included on the library’s summer schedule.

The library has a number of popular story times, and from June 12 through Aug. 14, there will be a new addition to the lineup. The Sunshine Readers of the National Charity League will be entertaining families with stories for all ages on Monday mornings at 11.

Also on the calendar are special family programs on Tuesdays at 2 p.m. starting June 20, including Bubblemania, hula, D.I.Y. STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), crafts and activities, and the Wild Wonders animal program.

Our favorite dogs from B.A.R.K. (Beach Animals Reading with Kids) will be visiting every other Thursday for Read to a Dog. Be sure to stop by the library for a flyer with all the dates and times, and check out the summer reading page at www.ocpl.org. All programs are free of charge.

The “Branching Out” column is a collaboration between San Juan Capistrano Library staff and the Friends of the Library, a nonprofit that supports the library and its programs by raising funds through its on-site bookstore and special events. For more information on the library, visit www.ocpl.org or follow @ SJCFriends on Facebook. 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.

Bodhi, a 15-month-old Australian Shepherd, took home prizes in the commands and agility contests.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

Recent Widower Thinks Women Should Be Motivated to Date Him

S

teve, a recent widower, contacted me about dating. He wrote, “I just ‘stumbled’ onto your Finding Love after 50 website, trying to educate myself on dating and my next phase in life. I became a widower in January of this year after a terrific 40-year marriage (together 44, married 40).”

“I am 66 and still working. My wife suffered an accidental death. She was an only child, and I am now responsible for her parents, ages 94 and 93.”

“To get myself moving, I have gone on a couple of dates. The dates went OK, but I have no plans to continue calling them because I see no willingness on their part to continue dating, let alone, have a relationship.”

“My guy friends say I am wrong to give up. I say to let the women ‘get motivated.’ I would like opinions from both genders.”

To comply with Steve’s request for opinions, I asked my On Life and Love after 50 eNewsletter readers for their inputs. Some responses: Kit said, “I’ve been a widow for 25 years.

I urge Steve to get out with groups of people.

He will be ready to move on with another woman when stripping his home of his wife’s special touches does not break his heart. I suggest when he is ready to sell his home, he will make a new place for himself to be comfortable in his singleness. It’s then that he will be ready to form a new relationship.”

Nikol emailed, “I was in a widow and widower support group. My experience with new widowers was they were all in the same big panic to replace their wives.

This panic usually lasted two years, and after this period of adjustment, some of them relaxed a bit.

After they learn to live alone and make a nest, they become more comfortable and don’t think about marriage as much.”

Thomas shared, “Regarding men wanting to replace the wife they lost, they rush into it too fast. I have a very good friend who did just that and he is not a happy camper after 10 years.”

Stella was direct, “Steve, at five months widowed, the full impact hasn’t even hit you yet. Allow yourself time to go through all the stages of grief. Get out and about, have fun and be patient. Your time will come.”

Sally stated, “My dad was married to my mom for 42 years, then he married the church casserole ladies: Verna for 15 years, then Clara five years, then he dated

The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

Hazel (at 93) who said to him, ‘No, I won’t marry you because all of your wives die!’

She was funny, and they enjoyed a friendship until dad died at 98. He loved the ladies. Some men just need a wife, nurse or a purse.”

Maria said, “Steve is just lonely right now and he’s rushing forward.

I’d be scared off if I was asked out by a guy whose partner died five ON LIFE AND months before.”

LOVE AFTER 50 Joanie suggested,

By Tom Blake “Steve might consider taking dance lessons. There are always more women than men, and it’s a way for him to get out into a social scene, meet many women without having to be on a date, and eventually he will meet one who is compatible with him.”

Tom’s thoughts: Likely, the two women that Steve dated sensed he wasn’t ready for a relationship. After all, he had been with his wife since he was 20 years old.

What often happens when a new widower begins dating, a nice woman falls in love with him. A little later, he realizes it’s too soon and pulls the rug out from under her, resulting in a broken heart for her. Not good.

Socializing with new people is important, but entering a dating relationship too soon usually doesn’t work. Widowed people need time to grieve and heal. Besides, he is caregiving his deceased wife’s elderly parents, which is admirable. Most women will not want to interfere with that.

At 66, Steve is still young. When his head is clear and his heart is ready, he will meet some very fine women. But for now, he needs to heal and learn to be on his own.

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 at 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

Military Roots Run Deep in San Juan

T

his year marks the 75th anniversary of the dedication of Camp Pendleton. In honor of that anniversary, the Camp Pendleton Historical Society and the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society have created an exhibit of artifacts and memorabilia, which is on display at the Leck House on the grounds of the Historical Society on Los Rios Street.

Co-chairs for this event are WWII veterans Jim Behmerwohld, U.S. Navy; Bill Hardy, U.S. Navy ace pilot; and Don Tryon, U.S. Coast Guard. Also honored is Col. Chandler Johnson, father of Historical Society member Sue Goode.

Visitors can view memorabilia from WWII, Korea, Desert Storm and Vietnam. Beyond the Camp Pendleton items, there are artifacts and photos from local residents who have served or who had relatives who served during these wars.

One of the most famous photographs of WWII is the American flag-raising on Mount Suribachi on the island of Iwo Jima on Feb. 23, 1945. But this famous photo captured the second flag that was raised on this spot. The first flag raised was photographed by a Marine Corps cameraman, who, along with a 40-man combat patrol, fought their way up that mountain top.

The commander of that patrol was Lt. Col. Chandler Johnson. Following the success of capturing Mt. Suribachi, Col. Johnson continued fighting for ground on Iwo Jima.

Unfortunately, he was killed by a bursting mortar shell as he moved from one observation post to another vantage point. Sue Johnson Goode received the Navy Cross, posthumously awarded to her father for his “extraordinary heroism.”

Cpl. Madeline Helen Corcoran— mother of San Juan resident Marianne Taylor—served in the U.S. Army in the

air division from 1943 to 1945. Corcoran served in England where she worked in the kitchen and as a hand radio operator.

She was also a barber. Corcoran joined the service because of her love of our country.

Her two brothers were also in the service.

After the war, she married and raised her family. She helped her husband in his plumbing business and was an active gardener, member of Fatima’s group of women at her local church and helped the homeless.

She suffered from PTSD due to the ceaseless MOMENTS IN bombings in England TIME and the horrors of war.

By Jan Siegel She requested a military funeral when she passed away in 2007 at the age of 85. She is buried at the Pt. Loma Military cemetery.

Glider pilot Walter Lindberg-Cota was killed in Tours, France on Feb. 22, 1945. His daughter, San Juan Capistrano resident Alana Jolley, was born a couple months later and never knew him.

When Alana was 30 years old, she began researching her father’s family. She has learned that her father was a descendant of “Soldados de Cuera,” who were the first soldiers, explorers, colonizers and builders of the cities of Alta California. Alana’s sixth great-grandfather Andres Cota and his brother came with Father Serra on the first expeditions to California.

There are many more unsung heroic stories which are portrayed in this exhibit.

You can spend a ‘Moment in Time’ and celebrate the history of Camp Pendleton, and the special place San Juan Capistrano plays in that history, by stopping by the Historical Society from now until Veterans Day. Jan Siegel is a 28-year resident of San Juan Capistrano. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 13 years and has been a volunteer guide for the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library’s architectural walking tour for 18 years. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@ thecapistranodispatch.com.

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

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.

Page 28

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:

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The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

Page 29

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

After three years of waiting, Royce Lewis got to play shortstop for the JSerra Catholic High School baseball team his senior season. Photo: Steve Breazeale

Royce Lewis is projected to be an early first-round pick in the MLB amateur draft on June 12.

Photo: Steve Breazeale

Phenom Prospect Royce Lewis Heads into MLB Draft

like Jeter and (current Houston Astro) Carlos Correa … they do it the right way and they look like they have a good time doing it,” Lewis said.

For a while, Lewis’ dream of playing shortstop had to be put on hold. He spent the first three years of high school playing third base for the Lions. He finally got his chance his senior year and made the most of it, showing big league scouts what he is capable of at the next level.

There is debate as to whether Lewis, who also possesses above-average speed, will play the position at the professional level or move to an outfield spot. The fact he was able to step in as a senior and play the position well left his former coach feeling optimistic about Lewis’ chances of playing his dream position.

“Give him a year or two in an organization, or at UCI, and he’s going to turn your mind around about what he is,” Kay said.

“The ceiling for him is unbelievable.”

One aspect of Lewis’ game that has always projected well is his ability at the plate.

Batting primarily at the top of the Lions’ lineup, Lewis batted .388 and reached base at a .569 clip his senior year. He struck out just seven times in 116 plate appearances and stole 25 bases.

He left JSerra as the program recordholder in hits, runs scored, stolen bases, walks, doubles, triples and career batting average. Kay said the team plans to make Lewis’ No. 6 jersey the first number retired by the program.

Part of what has pushed Lewis to this moment in his life is his unquenchable competitive drive. He wanted to break onto the team as a freshman, and he did.

He wanted to help the team win Trinity League titles, and he did. He was determined to show what he could do given the chance to play shortstop and won state

ROYCE LEWIS 2017 SEASON STATS GP 30

AB 80

Avg. .388

OBP .560

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

s his former coach can attest to, there’s nothing on a baseball field Royce Lewis can’t do.

Take the time the 6-foot-2-inch shortstop belted a fastball thrown by one of the nation’s best pitchers over the left field fence and nearly out of Wrigley Field in the Under Armour All-America Game, for instance.

Or the time he fought for a starting spot on a loaded JSerra Catholic High School roster and batted .362 as a freshman in the ultra-competitive Trinity League.

“Royce is the best player I’ve ever seen, and he’s the best player I’ve ever coached,” JSerra coach Brett Kay said.

“He’s just at a different level. There are urban legend stories about him that are all true.”

The tales of his prowess on the field, at the plate and as a leader in the clubhouse paint the picture of a player who has already accomplished so much, but has the ability to reach incredible heights.

On June 12, Lewis will likely be taken early in the first round of Major League Baseball’s amateur draft. Many prognosticators think he is worthy of a top-5

The Capistrano Dispatch June 9-22, 2017

R 35

HR 4

RBI 12

SB 25

selection. Baseball America has him listed as the fi fth-best prospect in the 2017 draft class.

It has been quite the whirlwind month for Lewis. He was named Gatorade’s Player of the Year in California shortly after earning his third consecutive Trinity League MVP award in May. He graduated from JSerra on May 27 and celebrated his 18th birthday a few days later.

Draft day will present Lewis, who is committed to UCI, with a chance to check off another box on his lofty list of goals.

“The opportunity is amazing and I’m humbled by both (college and professional) options,” Lewis said. “It’s not up to me and I don’t have to worry about it, which is awesome. It’s been great preparing for whatever the next level is because it’s going to be a big step in my life.”

Lewis seemed destined to excel at the sport from an early age. His earliest memories involve watching baseball with his family. His first word was “ball”.

One of his idols growing up was Derek Jeter, a tall shortstop like him, and Lewis modeled his approach to the game after the former Yankee captain.

“I fell in love with the position because all my role models are shortstops. Guys

Page 30

Royce Lewis batted .388 and stole 25 bases as a senior for JSerra. Photo: Steve Breazeale

player of the year while doing so.

“He’s competitive in every single thing he does,” his mother, Cindy Lewis, said.

“You want to play cards? Watch out. He wants to win.”

During a workout at JSerra on June 6, Lewis took grounders on an empty field.

No one was watching, except for his coach and two reporters. A huge moment in his life was just days away, but Lewis wasn’t thinking about that at all. Instead, he was focused on how to get better on a cloudy Tuesday afternoon.

“Nothing’s really changed yet for me,” Lewis said. “I’m just getting ready for that next step.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com