August 26, 2016

INSIDE:

Inaugural ‘Aging Well,’ A Guide to Senior Living PULLOUT SECTION

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

AUGUST 26-SEPTEMBER 9, 2016 • VOLUME 14, ISSUE 16

Celebrating Silver

U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Coach Robert Ridland leads team to silver medal, receives warm welcome at RMV Riding Park E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6

Surrounded by city officials and representatives of San Juan’s equestrian community, U.S. Olympic and National Show Jumping Team Coach Robert Ridland addressed the crowd at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park Sunday afternoon during a welcome home ceremony. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Pacifica San Juan Opens New Model Homes Saturday EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo Returns This Weekend GETTING OUT/PAGE 11

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Prep Football Kicks Off Another Season on Friday SPORTS/PAGE 18

INSIDE: 10 WEEKS OF LOCAL ELECTION COVERAGE BEGINS

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week Pacifica San Juan to Unveil New Model Homes Saturday THE LATEST: Following a year of work reviving the previously stalled Pacifica San Juan development, homebuilder Taylor Morrison is unveiling four new model homes and launching residential sales in two Pacifica neighborhoods this Saturday, Aug. 27. The grand opening marks the first model homes to debut in nearly a decade.

From atop a bluff, Pacifica San Juan overlooks San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and the Pacific Ocean. The 416-unit development was previously owned by Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc., which began development in the early 2000s, but only completed 98 of the planned homes before the recession hit, leaving the company bankrupt. Taylor Morrison purchased the community in the spring of 2015 and is set to complete the remaining 318 luxury homes.

WHAT’S NEXT: During the grand opening this weekend, visitors can tour four model homes in Pacifica’s Belle Haven and Blue Harbor neighborhoods. Belle Haven will have 39 residences priced in the low $1 million range, and Blue Harbor will have 23 homes in the same price range.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information on Pacifica San Juan, visit www.LivePSJ.com.

To read an interview with Phil Bodem, Southern California President for Taylor Morrison, and to view a photo slideshow of Pacifica’s newest models, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —Allison Jarrell

RMV Rodeo Returns to Riding Park with $295K Purse THE LATEST: Some of the country’s top cowboys—and a handful of world champions—are riding into town this weekend for the 16th annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo Aug. 27-28 at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park at San Juan Capistrano.

Heralded as “America’s richest two-day rodeo,” the annual event has been hosted

by Rancho Mission Viejo’s O’Neill-Avery-

Moiso family for the past 16 years in celebration of the golden age of early California rodeo tradition and the heritage of the land. This year’s purse has increased nearly $50,000 from past rodeos to a total of $295,000.

As in years past, the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association line-up features the top rodeo contestants in saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping and team roping.

On Saturday, gates open at 1 p.m. with opening ceremonies at 3:45 p.m. and the rodeo at 4 p.m. The competition will be followed by dancing and live music performed by Danny Griego at 6 p.m. Gates open at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday with the rodeo beginning at 1:30 p.m.

Pacifica San Juan is unveiling new model homes on Saturday, Aug. 27. Photo: Courtesy of Peter Cooper

WHAT’S NEXT: Tickets are $30 for adults, $10 for kids 4-12 years old and free for kids 3 and under. Parking is $5 cash only with limited availability. Tickets are on sale at six locations in South Orange County (cash only): The Swallow’s Inn and Ortega Tack & Feed in San Juan Capistrano, Hennessey’s Tavern in Dana Point, Boot Barn in Lake Forest, Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo and the Esencia Visitor Center in Rancho Mission Viejo. Tickets can also be purchased at the gates. For more information, visit www.rmvrodeo.com.—AJ

Esencia to build a multipurpose gym with space for sports like basketball and volleyball, as well as events. Adjacent to the gym will be CUSD’s new Esencia K-8 school, anticipated to open in fall 2018. About 50 acres of commercial space in Esencia will be occupied by retail, restaurants and offices.—AJ

Ranch’s Esencia Hilltop Neighborhoods to Open Sept. 25

THE LATEST: A coalition of students representing four area high schools presented 1,438 signatures to the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees on Aug. 17, requesting the board explore the feasibility of installing solar panels at each of the district’s high school campuses.

Russell Tran, a junior at San Juan Hills High School, led the call for action, followed by five students from high school environmental clubs, including the SJHHS Ecology Action Team. The solar petition was launched in March, and Tran said the group has been working with CUSD’s Business and Support Services Department since 2014 to explore solar projects.

The petition, Tran said, was a friendly way to demonstrate the community support for a solar project. The students presented the board with the economic, environmental and educational benefits of solar panels, as well as potential funding mechanisms such as Prop 39 funds, low interest loans from the California Energy Commission, general obligation bonds and clean renewable energy bonds. Ultimately, the students requested the board pursue a solar feasibility analysis.

Students Present Solar Petition to CUSD, District to Explore Feasibility

THE LATEST: Following record sales for Esencia’s Canyon House Neighborhoods, which debuted last fall, Rancho Mission Viejo officials have announced the village’s second round of neighborhoods, which feature some of the highest elevations on The Ranch, will open to homebuyers on Sunday, Sept. 25 at 9 a.m.

Visitors will be able to tour more than 20 model homes within five of Esencia’s new Hilltop Neighborhoods—part of the 14,000 units planned in Rancho Mission Viejo. A sixth Hilltop Neighborhood, called Iris, will open in fall 2016.

The 522 homes within the six Hilltop Neighborhoods feature coastal and backcountry views, and are expected to range in price from the high $300,000s to over $1 million.

Esencia is the second village to debut on The Ranch, following the now-sold out Sendero. Since opening last fall, Esencia’s 12 Canyon House Neighborhoods, which encompass 840 homes, saw 430 sales within 10 months, according to Ranch officials. At buildout, Esencia will provide 2,537 homes on The Ranch.

WHAT’S NEXT: Plans are also underway in

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

WHAT’S NEXT: Superintendent Kirsten Vital said after speaking with Clark Hampton, deputy superintendent of business and support services, on potential next steps, staff’s recommendation was to do a request for proposals to understand and

Page 3

assess whether solar panel installations would “pencil out” for the district.

Hampton said the students’ idea of buying solar energy systems was a good one and important to include in the district’s analysis due to difficulties other organizations have had with solar lease programs and payments.

Trustees commended the students for their work, while also emphasizing the need for conservation of energy in addition to pursuing such a project.

Hampton said staff is already working with Schneider Electric, the district’s Prop 39 partner, on concurrently analyzing solar prospects, energy management systems and conservation practices.

The board directed staff to send out an RFP per Vital’s recommendation.—AJ

City Seeking Applications for Utilities Commission, Youth Advisory Board THE LATEST: The city is asking residents interested in serving on San Juan Capistrano’s City Council-appointed Utilities Commission, or as an adult advisor on the city’s Youth Advisory Board, to submit their applications to the City Clerk’s office, located at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

Application forms are available online at www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

The Utilities Commission appointee will serve through March 31, 2017 and must be a registered voter in the city of San Juan Capistrano. The Youth Advisory Board’s new adult advisor will serve through Aug. 31, 2018.

WHAT’S NEXT: Applications for the Utilities Commission vacancy are due to the City Clerk by 4:30 p.m. today, Aug. 26. Applications for the adult advisor position on the Youth Advisory Board will be accepted through 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 9. For more information, contact the City Clerk at 949.493.1171.—AJ www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

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.

Thursday, August 18 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Aeropuerto, 26000 Block (4:03 p.m.)

A woman called police complaining about the homeless camp on the hill behind the trailer park. She said people had “engineered an explosive device on the railroad tracks” and she “saw wires and a USB cord on the train crossing.” Deputies located the object and discovered that it was trash. They found nothing suspicious.

DISTURBANCE Edgewood Road/Aspen Way (3:45 p.m.) Deputies patrolled a park for 10 to 15 male subjects smoking marijuana on the upper hill area.

PATROL CHECK Del Obispo Street, 32000 Block (3:25 p.m.) A patrol check was

requested for “gangsters” around the building possibly selling drugs. The caller said he was in the area visiting relatives and was about to go back home to Mission Viejo. No gangster was located.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 32400 Block (3:21 p.m.) A patrol check was requested at Vons for a subject outside the store begging for money and playing the accordion.

DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32200 Block (2:35 p.m.) Subjects were reportedly drinking beer near some garages.

WELFARE CHECK Camino Capistrano, 32200 Block (12:57 p.m.) Deputies patrolled near the Wells Fargo for a woman in her mid50s yelling at passersby.

TRESPASSING Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (12:34 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for a man and woman camping behind a house and refusing to leave.

Deputies made contact with the people and they agreed to leave.

VANDALISM REPORT Via La Jolla, 26500 Block (9:29 a.m.) Between midnight and 12:30 a.m., five cones were cut down at the end of Via La Jolla and Calita. A neighbor reported hearing a power saw around that time. The cones cost $700 each. Prosecution was desired.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES El Camino Real, 31600 Block (8 a.m.)

A patrol check was requested in front of the house on the corner near San Juan Elementary School. A black and yellow backpack with a package had been sitting outside the fence for four days. Deputies located the backpack and speaker box in front of the house. Police contacted the homeowner, who said it was her backpack and speaker. She wanted to give the items away. The items were removed and given back to the homeowner.

PATROL CHECK San Juan Creek Road, 32300 Block (3:57 a.m.) A caller was concerned about a man with long hair, no shirt and gym shorts running in the neighborhood.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Del Campo, 31100 Block (3:23 a.m.)

Deputies patrolled for two men who were trying the door handle on the caller’s neighbor’s vehicle.

Wednesday, August 17 9-1-1 HANGUP Camino Capistrano, 31400 Block (10:47 p.m.) Someone was on the line at a payphone but wasn’t saying anything. Police could hear someone breathing and cars passing by in the background.

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

Annual Labor Day Pig Roast Returns Sept. 5

The Capistrano Eagles Motorcycle Club is hosting its 18th annual Labor Day Pig Roast at the Swallow’s Inn from 2-6 p.m.

The carving and buffet begins at 1 p.m., and the event includes raffles, dancing and live music performed by Family Style from 2-6 p.m. A $15 donation includes food.

For more information, call 949.493.3188 or visit www.swallowsinn.com. The Swallow’s Inn is located at 31786 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano.

Shea Center BBQ & Family Faire Set for Sept. 24 The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center opens the gates for its 38th annual BBQ and Family Faire on Saturday, Sept.

24, at 4 p.m. The family gathering brings together over 1,500 attendees in an equestrian setting nestled against the hills of historic San Juan Capistrano. Those attending will be Shea Center riders and their families, donors, sponsors, community and business leaders, volunteers, equestrian professionals and the general public.

Again this year, the Montage Laguna Page 4

Community Meetings WEDNESDAY, AUG. 31

Downtown Farmers Market

3-7 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from dozens on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday. Visit www.farmersmarketsjc. com or call 949.493.4700 to find out more.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 2

Coffee Chat

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

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

TUESDAY, SEPT. 6

City Council, Housing Authority and Successor Agency Meeting

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

FRIDAY, SEPT. 9

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes

Beach joins the event in preparing and serving a “barbecue-western” meal. In the early evening, guests can win family faire prizes in games of skill, including ball tosses, a strength-tester bell ringer and the popular mechanical bull. Children in attendance will also enjoy face painting, a country faire “tattoo” parlor and more. Over 300 valuable items and unique experiences will be offered in live and silent auctions.

There will be rider demonstrations and the “Parade of Stars” of over 60 therapy clients and their families. The evening’s featured rider will be Kevin Whitney, 27, who came to The Shea Center through the Long Beach Veteran Affairs Spinal Cord Injury program, following a parachuting accident. His experience as a recovering patient, and his time at The Shea Center, have led him to pursue a medical degree at California State.

Country dance band Swing Shift will help carry the party into the night.

General admission is $55 for adults and $30 for seniors 55+, children 13 and under, and persons with disabilities. A family pack, for two adults and two children, is discounted to $155. For more information on sponsorships or to purchase tickets, call 949.240.8441, ext. 135, or visit www. sheacenter.org/events. The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center is located at 26284 Oso Road in San Juan Capistrano.

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

EYE ON SJC

Eight Vie for Two Seats on Council Meet the District 1 and 5 candidates for the San Juan Capistrano City Council

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

his November, San Juan Capistrano residents in Districts 1 and 5 will choose from two and six candidates, respectively, to fill two seats on the City Council.

With no incumbents running for reelection, District 1 residents will have a choice between Sergio Farias and Nathan Banda, and District 5 residents will choose from candidates Larry Kramer, Jim Schneider, Robert Parks, Mechelle Lawrence Adams, Ronda Mottl and Brian Maryott.

In the coming weeks, The Capistrano Dispatch will be providing ongoing coverage of the election, including publishing the candidates’ responses to our questionand-answer series about issues facing the city, culminating in our special election issue Friday, Oct. 14.

To kick off The Dispatch’s 2016 election coverage, candidates for City Council submitted statements this week on why they’re running. Those eight statements are compiled below in the same order the candidates’ names will appear on the general election ballot.

as a business owner and as one who can identify with our neighborhood residents and their concerns. I am the only fluent Spanish-speaking candidate for this district.

As your Council member, I will bring your concerns before the Council and city staff. I strongly feel we, as a city, should address community concerns such as the local street parking issues and improved traffic circulation.

We must meet the additional recreational needs of our neighborhoods, like more soccer fields and a new community pool.

I will work closely with our sheriff’s deputies to ensure the safety of our residents.

Our water rates are out of control.

Every city resident is impacted. Instead of lowering our water rates, the Council is involved in lawsuits that they continue to lose and pay millions out in losses of our city tax money.

I believe in protecting our open space and ensuring multi-use trail access for residents. Our roads and infrastructure repair need to be a priority. We need to remove the choke point on Ortega Highway for all of our residents and school children. I believe in well-planned growth that protects our heritage and puts our residents first, not outside interests.

I am a City Council candidate for District 1 to ensure we have a place at the decision-making table and that our issues and concerns are addressed. I feel the majority of our current Council has not considered our neighborhoods a priority and that must change.

I trust you will support me in this endeavor.

I have worked tirelessly to preserve our history while reinforcing our economic vitality. In recent years, I’ve focused my attention on establishing Capistrano Grind Skate Park while running the Native American Education Program in association with the Capistrano Unified School District. I am the only candidate who speaks Juaneño, and I’m also an avid supporter of our Chamber of Commerce, serving as an ambassador to welcome the newest members of our business community.

As your City Councilman, I will utilize my knowledge of City Hall to improve public safety, ensure the efficiency of essential services, while attracting strong community relevant businesses and jobs. It is imperative that we resolve our traffic and parking issues while improving our public parks to provide our residents a better quality of life. Additionally, it is important to me that we revive the San Juan Capistrano Citizen Leadership Program so we may prepare members of our community to take roles of responsibility in the future.

I will be an approachable and attentive steward of our collective vision for the future while working to ensure that all voices are heard. It is time to elect someone who truly understands this community, a homegrown resident who will represent your needs on our City Council. www.bandasjc.com.

DISTRICT 5

Jim Schneider PROFESSIONAL GEOLOGIST/ PROFESSOR

DISTRICT 1

Larry Kramer RETIRED SUBMARINE CAPTAIN

Nathan Banda BUSINESSMAN/CITY OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO COMMISSIONER

Sergio Farias SMALL BUSINESS OWNER As a lifelong resident of the city, and specifically of District 1, I feel I am the most qualified in addressing issues within our neighborhood and the community as a whole.

I will bring my problem-solving skills

property values of our homes and their actions may soon have a negative impact.

Foremost is the huge litigation liability the Council has placed upon the residents of our wonderful historic town. I will reduce legal costs and use the money for additional police officers and long-deferred street maintenance.

I support carefully considered changes in our Historic Town Center in keeping with our heritage and the preservation of our historic structures, and I will work hard to ensure that we get two four-star hotels in the Historic Town Center. I will work to ensure that we obtain desperately needed additional parking downtown.

As your representative for the Fifth District, I will work to remove the Ortega Highway choke point and ensure public use of the Riding Park and Reata Park. I will work for a pocket park at San Juan Creek Road and La Novia.

As the candidate with the most management and leadership experience, not only as a Naval Officer but also locally, I ask for your support on Nov. 8.

As a lifelong resident of this historic town, I can truly understand and appreciate our city’s motto, “preserving the past, to enhance the future.” For 10 generations, my family has had the great fortune of living in San Juan Capistrano. My Latino and Native American heritage will give our City Council a unique and rarely seen perspective, important to guiding the future of our town.

For the last nine years, I have served as a Cultural Heritage Commissioner, where

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

After 30 years of service to our country, I retired as a Naval Submarine Captain. In 2002, my wife, Chris, and I moved to this beautiful valley of San Juan Capistrano to be close to our family.

My commitment to public service in our community began with my involvement in the local Rotary Club, then as a City Transportation Commissioner, followed by the Open Space Committee, and finally as an elected Council member and city mayor. I have also been a classroom volunteer for over 10 years.

I am running for City Council because I am very concerned with the direction and attitude of our current City Council majority. They have done nothing to improve the

Page 6

As I see it, the current and long-term top priority for our city is to remain solvent. Expenditures are rising—police, pensions and attorneys. How will our city raise money in the future? Others propose more tax. I do not.

Other priorities: annexing the water plant (O.C. LAFCO), resolving major lawsuits (water, land use, etc.), CIP’s, finding a better solution to the proposed SDG&E substation, increase business, fix zoning, keep open space and re-examine our Long Term Strategic Plan and Master Plan.

San Juan Capistrano is in competition for business! What drives them here to SJC? We do not have a harbor, pier, major sports complex, theater or major shopping in our downtown. I think we need to go beyond our current SJC Master Plan and Long Term Strategic Plan for long-term revenue. I have an idea for just that.

I refuse funding and fight my campaign on city issues and resolutions. This is a grassroots-style city and requires Council members be in-touch with residents’ ideas and issues rather than personal agendas. I am running because I remain dissatisfied www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC with current policies and have concern for the future of our city. I will represent the people of this city and District 5 vehemently.

Credentials? I am a problem solver.

I work hard. I am honest and direct. I believe in family, neighbors, historical preservation, sense of community, justice, equity and inclusiveness. I am a business owner, professional geologist, geology professor, commercial diver and former Marine (USMC). I have vast experience in business—contracts, bids, contractors, safety, HR, QA/QC and completion of work to the tune of many millions. I follow through on everything, and always finish what I start. I read the fine print. I read owner’s manuals—for everything.

My name? Jim Schneider—please vote for me in November.

Robert Parks RETIRED DISPOSAL MANAGER I am a Commissioner for the city’s Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission, and I would like to be the new voice for the city.

I’ve been here in San Juan Capistrano for more than 35 years, and I have been involved in SJC Little League for more than 20 years. I have managed, coached and given private lessons for the boys and girls in our area for free. I also do baseball clinics for free. I have been a part of our community for a long time and I love this city! It’s become a part of me.

I have so many ideas that could help us flourish and grow. One thing we have to remember—we were an old city, a sleepy city, but we’ve become a young city. We have more young people moving to San Juan Capistrano. I’m a strong supporter of finishing the widening of Ortega Highway and Del Obispo. I also support two beautiful hotels, which will bring a lot of new jobs.

Also, Los Angeles is bidding for the Olympic Games, and where do you think the equestrians will be? In our riding park. My goal is to keep our lovely city beautiful. Our city has so much to offer.

We need a new voice in our city, a strong voice. I believe I can be the one. We do not need the same people running with old philosophies. It’s time for a change.

I also support our veterans and seniors

who made our city what it is today.

Thank you, Robert Parks. You can call me anytime at 949.378.2587.

Mechelle Lawrence Adams DIRECTOR, HISTORIC MISSION As Executive Director of Mission San Juan Capistrano, Chairwoman of the City’s Cultural Heritage Commission, 20-year resident, and someone who has been actively involved in the community for the last three decades, I care deeply about our town.

I am running for City Council because I feel I can make a difference by putting my extensive knowledge of the city, strong community and business relationships and proven management experience to work to benefit all of our community. As a strong, passionate and experienced advocate, I will work hard to have a positive impact on our city’s future.

During my 13 years managing the Mission, I successfully developed local, regional and statewide partnerships, deploying innovative strategies to celebrate and preserve our history, while practicing necessary fiscal conservatism.

With my foundation, I have successfully led the effort to raise over $10 million dollars to preserve Serra Chapel, the historic South Wing, West Wing Building, Mission art and artifact collection, and most recently the $3.3 million Gate House Preservation Project which included the rehabilitation of the original 1919 ticket booth and construction of a new Mission store.

Prior to the Mission, I served as a city planner and economic development manager at San Juan Capistrano City Hall for 12 years, learning and helping to make government work more efficiently for our residents and businesses.

As a mother of three SJC-raised children, I have first-hand experience with our parks, equestrian facilities, schools, churches, library and historic downtown.

These valuable assets must be nurtured and protected for our seniors, families and children.

I am the only candidate with a 25-year track record of serving SJC every day and want to offer my expertise to make it even better. I humbly invite your support. You may call me at 949.441.0265.

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

Ronda Mottl

Brian Maryott

MEDIA EXECUTIVE

FINANCIAL SERVICES EXECUTIVE

The reason I’m running for City Council is to be the voice of the consensus in my district. If elected, my number one job is to listen to my constituents about their concerns—from within the neighborhood to citywide.

The challenges for the city are numerous, such as a projected budget deficit in 2018-2019 due to an increase in the Sheriff’s contract, ongoing litigation and overall increasing expenses to run the city.

I am a proponent for reasonable development that will benefit our city in tax dollars and resources to help balance the budget.

Another issue facing the city is our water; we outsource our gas, power and cable— why should a city of 35,000 be in the water business?

I am running against very passionate and qualified candidates, but my unique proposition for the community is that I have a strong business background in working with Fortune 500 Consumer Packaged Goods Companies on the West Coast. In addition, I am a realtor, former president of Little Balboa Island Property Association and former membership chairman for the Orange County Young Republicans. I received my MBA from UCLA at night while working for Nestlé during the day.

If elected, I would like to have quarterly town hall meetings in my district where I can review and discuss current issues and have a guest speaker from the city with the sole purpose of keeping my district informed and providing an opportunity to voice your concerns.

If elected, I want to help restore the trust in our city government. A vote for Ronda Mottl is a vote for your voice to be heard and represented in City Council. A vote for Ronda Mottl is to maintain open space and to preserve our historic cultural jewel of Orange County, San Juan Capistrano. Mottl4sjc.com.

My wife and I are raising our family here in San Juan Capistrano, and like most residents of this great city, we are enamored by its historic, hometown charm. It would be my honor to represent District 5 on our City Council. I currently serve as a Commissioner on our Trails and Equestrian Commission, and previously served San Juan’s Little League as a board member and treasurer.

I work in the financial services industry, where I am a senior vice president and regional manager with Wells Fargo Advisors. Earlier, I spent several years in state government as both a legislative aide and staff director. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from American International College in Massachusetts.

Looking forward, we must protect and maintain our city’s bold commitment to open space. As a community, we should work together to identify suitable and thoughtful redevelopment, and strive to ensure economic and cultural vitality in our great downtown area. I will work diligently with our City Council, city staff and local experts on addressing our core services as well, with our challenging water supply and cost issues being of paramount importance. It is time to give our residents and our modest aquifer a break, and exit the water and sewer business.

Additionally, we must mitigate the potentially expensive lawsuits plaguing our city, while collaborating with the City Council, city staff and local citizenry to avoid future risk. Our local government should be inclusive and collaborative, not divisive.

As your City Council member, I will devote my financial expertise to improving the efficient, conservative use of our taxpayer dollars, while maintaining a regular, open dialogue with you, my friends and neighbors.

Page 7

The next edition of The Capistrano Dispatch will include coverage of state and local elections, including profiles of the candidates for the Capistrano Unified School District and a look at the race for California’s 49th Congressional District between Rep. Darrell Issa and Doug Applegate. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Surrounded by city officials and representatives of San Juan’s equestrian community, U.S. Olympic and National Show Jumping Team Coach Robert Ridland addressed the crowd at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park Sunday afternoon.

Celebrating Silver, San Juan Capistrano-Style U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Coach Robert Ridland leads team to silver medal, receives warm welcome at Riding Park PHOTOS AND TEXT BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

F

ollowing the conclusion of last Friday’s Olympic show jumping competition and medal ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Coach Robert Ridland went straight to the airport and hopped on an overnight flight home to Irvine so that he could celebrate the U.S. team’s silver medal victory with his family and friends.

When he and his family arrived home on Saturday, they were greeted by a completely redecorated house—red, white and blue décor, complete with a large sign thanking them.

“That’s what I loved so much, because Hillary and Peyton and McKenna have been a huge part of it,” Ridland said of his wife of 18 years, son and daughter. “It’s not about me; it’s about what everybody did.

It was very touching to come around the corner and see that.”

It was Facebook that tipped Ridland off to a welcome ceremony at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park at San Juan Capistrano, which took place Sunday afternoon. Ridland is president of the two companies that manage the riding park— Blenheim EquiSports and Blenheim Facil-

ity Management. Hundreds of residents and visitors dressed in patriotic attire, along with city officials and Blenheim management, gathered at the riding park to honor Ridland and his family prior to that afternoon’s $30,000 Markel Insurance Grand Prix and $2,500 Interactive Mortgage U25 Developing Rider Qualifier.

The ceremony, which took place on the riding park’s Oaks International Grand Prix Field, included the singing of the National Anthem and speeches given by city officials, Blenheim staff and representatives of San Juan’s equestrian community.

Ridland also addressed the crowd, thanking everyone for their continued support and sharing his thoughts on the U.S. team’s world-class performance in Rio. Ridland’s ties to San Juan Capistrano and the riding park run deep. He was running horse show events and grand prix down in Del Mar when he was first introduced in the late 1990s to Blenheim Farms owner R.J. Brandes of San Juan Capistrano. Brandes intended to expand a field that was originally designed by Joan Irvine Smith.

“A lot of things came together at that point, and R.J. and I became partners in the company we started, which was

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

Blenheim EquiSports,” Ridland recalled.

“My company was EquiSports, his was Blenheim, so we put the two together, and that’s how it really started.”

Shortly after the creation of Blenheim EquiSports, the company pushed to host Olympic Trials at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, which became a reality in 2000 and again in 2004.

“It was a dream of mine, ever since I was a rider back in my early 20s on the international team,” Ridland said. “I’m from California, born in California, but most of our sport was on the East Coast at the time, and beyond that, most of the sport was in Europe. All of the Olympic trials had always been held on the East Coast, so it was really important that we make a big push to try to bring it to California.

San Juan’s always had the equestrian tradition, so we pushed really hard to get it here, and it was the first time the Olympic trials were held west of the Mississippi River.”

The riding park continues to see its fair share of Olympic talent—riders from around the world compete in the park’s shows each year on their way to world championships and Olympic Games, including members of this year’s U.S. team.

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A two-time member of the U.S. Olympic Equestrian team—as a reserve in Munich in 1972 and a competitor in Montreal in 1976—Ridland’s accolades include designing show jumping courses for international events, such as the 1992 and 1996 U.S. Olympic Trials, and has twice earned the American Horse Show Association’s Course Designer of the Year award. Four years ago, Ridland was hired as the U.S. Show Jumping coach.

Ridland said the 2016 U.S. Olympic team was comprised of some of the best professional riders in the world: McLain Ward, Lucy Davis, Kent Farrington and Beezie Madden. Ridland said the seasoned team of competitors went to Rio with confidence, but also with awareness of the sport’s high level of competition.

Ridland said the team’s strength allowed them to persevere through unexpected circumstances, such as Madden having to withdraw from competing due to an injury to her horse. The team was left without their anchor rider.

“We were trying to pull off something that had never been done before—win a medal with only three riders with no discard score where they couldn’t make any mistakes,” Ridland said.

By the time McLain was up to ride, the team knew they couldn’t get the gold, but Ridland said McLain didn’t let that affect his ride at all.

“He gave a picture perfect ride,” Ridland said. “He gave us the chance to win silver.”

It took a while before the team knew they had officially secured second place, but when they did, Ridland said they were “pretty overcome.”

“There was a whole lot of hugging, that’s for sure.”

So when does the U.S. team begin preparing for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo?

“Now!” Ridland laughed. “Four years will come sooner than we think. Tokyo is in our sights, and we want to get another medal. Maybe even a different color.” CD

Following the ceremony, show jumpers competed in the $30,000 Markel Insurance Grand Prix at the Oaks International Grand Prix Field at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park at San Juan Capistrano.

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SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: San Juan Capistrano City Councilman John Perry

Ortega Highway—To Widen or Not

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rtega is designated as a scenic highway under State Streets and Highway Code. The purpose of this designation is “to preserve and enhance unique or special aesthetic and visual resources with sensitive highway design and development of scenic corridors.” Ortega has maintained this designation for decades under the John Perry past guidance and protection of San Juan Capistrano City Councils.

The adopted City Council values statement reads: “San Juan Capistrano has a distinct sense of place; it is separate from the highly urbanized areas of Orange County; That it values and is determined to sustain its open space and natural advantages as a source of calm and enjoyment, and is also a factor that distinguishes it from other, more fully developed communities in Orange County.”

As the nearby communities converted their roadways to high capacity thoroughfares leading to the freeway, San Juan Capistrano has been true to its values and has developed and maintained the Ortega Highway as a scenic place where trees and meandering sidewalks provide the driver with a sense of calm in a place of natural beauty.

For the past 10 years, there has been an ongoing controversy of how, or even whether, to widen Ortega into an arterial roadway. There is a 0.9-mile stretch of roadway that maintains the original two

lanes of traffic that once was the width of the highway that stretched from Lake Elsinore to San Juan Capistrano. Recent improvements have created a four-lane divided stretch of road from Antonio Highway to the city limits. When the road narrows, drivers must merge into two lanes for the roughly one-mile stretch of the original Ortega Highway. This causes the traffic to reduce speed to approximately 30 miles per hour. Beyond the one-mile stretch, the highway widens to four lanes leading to the freeway at the 45 miles per hour posted speed limit.

In order to increase highway capacity and speed, Caltrans and OCTA have prepared plans to widen Ortega to four lanes from the current two lanes. The cost is estimated at $29 million. Caltrans would build roughly 2,000 feet of retaining walls—up to 14 feet high on the south side of Ortega to deaden the noise generated by the rush of traffic that travels unimpeded from the Reata stoplight to Via Cordova. On the north side of Ortega, retaining walls would be up to 24 feet tall because hillsides would need to be removed in order to provide space for four lanes. During the widening, 110 mature trees would be removed so the retaining walls can be constructed.

In my opinion, the eastern entrance to San Juan Capistrano will resemble a concrete tunnel, forever destroying our beautiful scenic highway. The net result will allow commuters to reach the freeway a few minutes sooner, only to find the free-

way slammed by the traffic generated by overdevelopment in South Orange County.

The proponents of the Ortega widening include the Rancho Mission Viejo Company, which is in the process of constructing 14,000 new homes in the canyon area, and some local residents who do not seem to care about aesthetics. The proponents of the Caltrans project claim it is unsafe to drive through the “choke point.” I believe the narrow road moderates traffic speeds and reduces traffic on the highway. The recent traffic accidents that have occurred on Ortega were caused by drunk drivers, speeding or illegal U-turns, according to OCSD. None of the traffic accident reports cite road conditions as the cause of the accidents.

Because Route 74 (Ortega Highway) is a state highway, someday the road will be widened to accommodate the ever-increasing traffic caused by overdevelopment.

The Ranch’s EIR traffic report projects that the 14,000 houses being built will generate more than 183,000 trips per day by 2035 when the project is completed.

We will need to build several new six-lane highways to move the residents from where they live to the freeway. Let’s do a little more planning on how this is going to happen before we tear up our community to accommodate an interim solution. CD

Letters to the Editor

increase. On May 26, 2016, El Nido residents received a 90-day notice that their rents were going to be increased by $403 per month, which would represent as much as a 70 percent monthly increase for some of the residents. The increase was to be effective on Sept. 1, 2016. The park owner then offered an option of a $57 per month increase if the resident would sign a long-term lease, which could in effect remove that resident from the protection of the city’s rent control ordinance.

This attempt to raise the rents of the tenants living in El Nido Estates is also an attempt to ignore or undo the city’s rent control ordinance. This blatant attempt to defeat or override the city’s ordinance also creates an expenditure of finances and staff resources in order to uphold city laws.

Mobile homes are not really mobile and the mobile home residents, unlike apartment dwellers, or even condominium owners, are not able to simply just pick up and move at will, or on short notice. By imposing an extraordinary rent increase, which many in the estates cannot afford to pay, and to allow only 90-day window for

the owners of the house to try to sell their home and move, could almost be construed as a form of extortion. The owner of El Nido Estates is not only putting the park residents in an untenable situation, he is threatening to take away their savings and jeopardizing their ability to live within their limited means. The emotional stress this matter has created cannot be overstated.

The El Nido Estates residents have no other option available to them than to try to fight this increase through the rent control procedure as provided by the city of San Juan Capistrano. The city is very conscious of the need for affordable housing in the city, and the need to help protect the senior citizens living in their city.

We are hopeful that the city’s rent control ordinance will again protect everyone’s interests.

SENIORS AT EL NIDO ESTATES FACE ANOTHER EXTREME RENT INCREASE BATTLE —Tom Perrin, San Juan Capistrano What if your landlord or your bank gave you a 90-day notice that they were going to double your rent, or increase your house payment by almost 100 percent? And what if you were unable to find or move all of your belongings to another apartment, or find, buy and move into another house on such short notice? And, what if you were a senior citizen living on your retirement savings, or a pension or on any other fixed income? Well, that is the situation that the residents living in El Nido Estates are facing today.

After going through a very costly rent increase battle last year, the residents, seniors, living in El Nido Estates must now must fight another proposed rent

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

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

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@thecapistranodispatch. com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

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HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Allison Jarrell, 949.388.7700, x108 ajarrell@thecapistranodispatch.com SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

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SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Amanda Giannelli Debra Holm Jorge Maldonado Cameron Sadeghi Tim Trent

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 14, Issue 16. 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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HOW TO TURN VOLUNTEER WORK INTO A SECOND CAREER MEALS ON WHEELS DELIVERS MORE THAN FOOD TO THE COMMUNITY FITNESS AND RECREATION TIPS FOR THE ACTIVE SENIOR

WELCOME TO

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aging well | FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

s there a better place to age well than South Orange County? If there is, it’d have to have recreational opportunities, perfect weather, vibrant community centers, entertainment options and leading medical care and assisted living facilities—all of which the tri-city area has in abundance.

Almost 45 percent of residents in Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano—almost 60,000 people—are over the age of 45, which means it’s no secret the area attracts those looking to live well as they age. In this inaugural edition of Aging Well, we’ve assembled features that highlight what the area offers seniors, and how seniors in the area are finding their own sources of entertainment and exploration.

In Aging Well, you’ll find several stories about how to stay active in the community with fellow seniors. Check out an article on our local community centers, page 6, a look at senior fitness, page 7, and find local hotspots from local themselves on page 12.

We’ve also assembled profiles of all the places seniors can go to live within a like-minded, and like-aged, community. Flip to page 4 for a feature on San Clemente Villas by the Sea, with a rundown of all the senior communities in the tri-city area. And look on page 11 for a profile of the San Clemente Village nonprofit, a group that is seeking to help seniors stay independent as they age.

For practical advice on aging well, we’ve included a story on senior nutrition, page14, ways to protect against falls and other common injuries, page 8, and expert advice on Medicare and similar packages on page 10.

Lastly, we’ve included stories for those who are looking to give back. Read about the local Meals on Wheels program, page 14, and find ways to stay active via volunteering on page 13.

There’s a lot to do in South Orange County for seniors, and there’s a lot to read about in this issue—so start reading, and start aging well.

WHAT LOCALS ARE SAYING

We asked local seniors in Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano: How are you aging well in South Orange County?

Rene Cortez, Dana Point

“I was born and raised in this town.

I volunteer at the senior center. I do Meals on Wheels.

I’m a docent up at the Dana Point Headlands. And I just started a nonprofit up there.”

Evie Love, Dana Point “I volunteer (as events coordinator at the Beach Cities Senior’s Club). We go to musicals, we go to casinos, we go to luncheons.

We just do a lot of activities here.” page 3

Pat Burkholder, San Juan Capistrano “Being a senior, I joined about five senior places and they go on the trips.

At the end of this month, we’re going to Laughlin and they’re very inexpensive. You get the busride, two nights at a motel and meals for under $200.

You can’t beat that.”

George Ruiz, San Clemente “The nature trails, some of those. I like coming to the community center, walking along the beach. Any one of the city’s activities is fun to walk around and see.”

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

HOME AWAY FROM, BUT NEARBY, HOME

SAN CLEMENTE VILLAS BY THE SEA OFFERS A LOCAL SPIN ON RETIREMENT LIVING

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BY MATT CORTINA

here are a lot of perks that come from a locally run retirement and assisted living facility. You’re never too far away from your friends and family, nor your favorite restaurants. And it means the folks taking care of you have an investment in making your life as comfortable as possible—you’re neighbors after all.

Paul and Aileen Brazeau built the San Clemente Villas by the Sea in 2002 after they noticed a need for senior care and community growing in San Clemente.

“I thought there was a need for assisted living,” Aileen said. “Did you know that the baby boomer generation after World War II is aging? There’s a lot of elderly people and we wanted to provide a space in San Clemente (for them).”

Immediately, the Brazeaus felt like there was an opportunity to provide more intimate, localized care than some of the larger chains that provide a “formula” to senior living.

“We’re kind of different. We’re a familyfriendly operation, and we’re about fun living and enjoying life,” Aileen said. “People are herd animals, and we like to be in groups and we like to be social.”

Part of that community aspect extends to the resources available to seniors at the Villas. Aileen says they go out of their way to provide unique experiences for their residents and guests.

“My husband and I, this is our only community so we spend extra money on activities, more money on food. It’s all about fun,” Aileen said.

Activities offered by the Villas include a creative writing and watercolor paint-

ing class; dancing and singing activities; a book of the month club; brain activities; movie nights (mostly musicals and comedies); trips to the casino; wine dinners; cruises—“It’s like this Club Med sort of thing,” Aileen said.

The Villas are home to about 160 residents and 127 employees. The residents include people from all walks of life from beach bums to doctors and professors.

What brings them all together to the Villas is a love of San Clemente and the shared passion for the things that make the city, and the area, so special.

“We have nonstop activities and you can be as active as you want to be,” Aileen said. “I think the sunshine and good food and getting vitamins and medication on time, you just feel great. We have residents who have lived here for over 10 years just because they love it.”

She added that her office is always open to residents and guests looking to suggest new activities or just to talk. In that way, and in so many others, San Clemente Villas by the Sea is a real, caring community.

The edifice and reception area of San Clemente Villas by the Sea. Photo: Courtesy

Bedrooms are characteristic and fun, like the Villas and their members. Photo: Courtesy

Movies are screened every night at the Villas. Photo: Courtesy

Owner Aileen Brazeau stands in a common area of the facility. Photo: Courtesy

The facility is home to a heated pool for year-round enjoyment. Photo: Courtesy

The tri-cities are home to a number of senior living and assisted care facilities, as well as seniors-only communities.

The broad range of options ensures that seniors have choices when it comes to the quality and style of life they want to lead. Check out the facilities and communities in Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano and visit their websites to see all they have to offer.

Dana Point: Aegis Living of Dana Point, The Fountains at Sea Bluff San Clemente: AMADA Senior Care, Cottons Point, Rosehaven Care Homes, SC Villas by the Sea, Vintage Shores San Juan Capistrano: Atria San Juan, Brookdale Senior Living, Del Obispo Terrace, Silverado San Juan Capistrano, Seasons Senior Apartments, Villa Paloma Senior Apartments

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aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

CENTER OF ACTION Local community centers offer myriad entertainment opportunities for seniors

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BY MATT CORTINA

ommunity centers in South Orange County provide locals of all age groups the opportunity to connect, exercise, dine and, more than anything, enjoy their neighbors. The centers are keys to truly aging well, both for the mind and body. In addition to regular events like yoga and bridge, senior centers also offer holiday events and special celebrations throughout the year. There’s also excursions lead by the Beach Cities Senior’s Club to concert venues, casinos, museums and more. Take a look at what these community centers have to offer.

Senior Center Director Vanna Murphy addresses a Dana Point Senior Center luncheon. Photo: Matt Cortina

Local Dana Point seniors enjoy the lunch, one of many activities at the center. Photo: Matt Cortina

Dana Point Community Center

34052 Del Obispo Street. 949.496.4252. www.danapoint.org/department/community-services-and-parks/seniors The activities for seniors rotate every month at the Dana Point Community Center, but there are a few staples to set your watch to. Bingo runs every weekday, and card games take place on Thursday and Friday. Lunch is served every day at the Center at 11:45 a.m., and is available with the recommended $4.50 donation.

Special lunches range from chili dogs to luau-inspired fare. Special events include Western Day, where attendees can dress in Western garb; Halloween dinner, where prizes go to the best costume; and Thanksgiving Day feasts. There’s also valuable resources like driver safety courses, legal counsel, transportation services and health care management.

Dorothy Visser Senior Center (San Clemente)

117 Avenida Victoria. 949.498.3322. http://san-clemente.org/recreation-community/recreation/classes-programs/senior-activities Look out for lunches, exercise groups, art classes and more at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente. The center usually has two exercise groups every morning—yoga, pilates, tai chi, strength training, balance work and aerobic exercise are all offered.

Later in the day, folks can get their crafting muscles moving with knitting workshops, watercolor and oil painting classes, and jewelry making. The Center also has a computer lab and community dining available to all patrons.

There are also resources like healthcare counseling, visual aid consultations, health advisors and more. And there’s plenty of opportunities for fun with bridge, bingo and holiday-specific celebrations.

San Juan Capistrano Community Center

25925 Camino Del Avion. 949.493.5911. https://www.sanjuancapistrano.org/Index.aspx?page=299 The opportunities for seniors in San Juan Capistrano are limitless. It starts with a senior lounge open from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, where guests can shoot pool, play cards, watch TV and socialize.

There are yoga, balance, hula and other exercise classes available at the Center and nearby. The San Juan Senior Club also offers dozens of one-day and overnight excursions for the senior traveler.

The Center also provides resources like legal aid, estate planning, tax help, a driving safety program and more. Seniors can stop by for meals on weekdays at 11:45 a.m., and stick around for the camaraderie. page 6

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

OVER 50? JOIN THE BOOMERS FITNESS MOVEMENT AND GET ACTIVE

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BY JEANNIE MCCORMACK

hen we’re in our 20s, 30s and 40s, we get the feeling that our bodies are invincible. But then the 50s hit, and our bodies start to call time. I’ve heard countless clients tell me that they looked at themselves in the mirror at age 50 and thought, “Who are you?” The good news is, it’s not too late. Committing to a routine of regular exercises is one of the healthiest decisions you can make.

The benefits of exercise at any age are well documented, but for those over 50, exercise can be lifesaving. Studies show that exercise reduces the impact of illness and chronic disease. Benefits of exercise for adults over 50 include: • improved immune function • better heart health and blood pressure • better bone density • improved sleep • improved mental clarity • boosted mood • better focus • enhanced self esteem • enhanced mobility, flexibility, and balance, and better-looking skin

Those that exercise also have lower risk of chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s, diabetes, obesity, cancer, osteoporosis and arthritis, even if you already have the symptoms.

Thanks to the boomers, who began turning 65 in 2011, the population of older Americans is expanding. By 2030, one in five Americans will be a senior, nearly double the 12 percent mark of 2000.

We can age better than our ancestors to be sure. I flash back to my own ’60s iconic childhood. I fondly remember my mother turning on Jack LaLane in the morning.

She would encourage my sister and I, both preschoolers, to follow along. My lovely mother with the frosted beehive hairstyle would swing her pedal pushered legs over the side of an armchair and smoke a cigarette. She never actually did the exercises herself but she did most definitely encourage myself and my six siblings to live an active lifestyle. The decision to exercise has to be a lifestyle choice.

The biggest single reason given for not exercising on a regular basis is not having enough time for the recommended 30 minutes a day to maintain health. It is vital that you find this time as it has a direct bearing on future well-being. It can be as little as

three 10-minute walks a day, a 30-minute walk, an exercise class, a swim, a bike ride, a friendly game of golf or tennis. Exercise can be as effective as medication in combatting depression. Walking, jogging, weightlifting and stationary bike have all been found to make an impact on mood.

Pilates and yoga are my favorite modality with the over-50 crowd. If you had an active lifestyle growing up, chances are good you well have no trouble picking up yoga or pilates practice and you will see rapid results in improved physical condition. You can practice both pilates and yoga well into your advanced senior years. The last class I took from renowned pilates master Ron Fletcher is proof in the pudding. At the age of 86, he was climbing onto a reformer and demonstrating most all of the moves. If that weren’t telling enough, both yoga and pilates are a mind-body tradition, meaning that you must concentrate on form and breath. It therefore becomes a moving meditation.

Recent studies at University of California, Irvine showed that 20-40 minutes of daily meditation reduced cortisol levels by 27 percent. And we know what happens when cortisol levels spike: belly fat. And belly fat is deadly, literally.

Seniors exercise at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center. Photo: Matt Cortina

My AARP card recently came in the mail. My husband held it up with a wink. I didn’t find it so funny. In fact, I was horrified. But while aging is inevitable, we don’t have to get old now, do we? Just get out there and get active.

aging well |

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FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

PREVENTING FALLS … beyond the obvious

BY DR. MARY SONDAG, PHYSICAL THERAPIST

asked my mother, 85, if she’d fallen recently. “Well, yes,” she admitted.

How did it happen? “Well, I was trapping the chipmunks in the live trap so I could take it over to the forest preserve. I don’t really know what happened, I guess I tripped over a high spot on the patio.

I didn’t think to say anything—I wasn’t hurt.” I shook my head— most people just say they fell over a rug, or tripped over a curb. Not my mom—she was out trapping chipmunks!

You’ve heard it all before: the fall risks, the statistics for falls in people over 65, the tips and tricks for avoiding falls, making your home safer by picking up throw rugs.

And yet, down you went. You didn’t even bother to mention it to anyone—you didn’t get hurt, no broken bones, no harm done.

This is exactly the time you should take notice and start asking questions. Why did I fall? What were the circumstances?

Should I start using a cane in certain circumstances? Did it happen cleaning the

garage? Trapping chipmunks? What could I have done that would have decreased my chances of falling?

I’ve been a physical therapist for almost 35 years and if I had one piece of advice to give to people over age 65 it would be that: be proactive. It is so much easier to prevent an injury due to falling than to undergo the rehab required to resume normal life after such an injury. It breaks my heart when someone loses their independence when it could have been prevented.

There is no guarantee that we will never fall. From the moment we are upright on two legs, we are at risk. From a 10-monthold taking her first steps to a 45-year-old who was texting while walking to the 85-year-old checking her chipmunk trap, we are at risk of falling and, no matter how in shape or nimble we are, many of us still fall.

However, if we understand the reasons that gravity sometimes wins this battle of the upright, it can help us make better decisions as we move about and limit our chances of falling when we least expect it.

“I haven’t fallen, I don’t have an injury, I don’t need physical therapy.” Well, maybe, maybe not. Medicare Part B is happy to pay for an evaluation and comprehensive balance screening, which is really the

Physical therapy is a valuable resource for seniors looking to prevent falls. Photo: istock

only way to assess your risk. When I perform a standardized balance test, it is not surprising to learn that what I have initially observed when the person walked in is not the whole story. Someone may walk in and look perfectly fine, but when their balance is challenged, it is obvious they need therapy due to lack of strength, balance reactions or other factors such as diminished sensation. On the other hand, someone may walk in and look as if they

are about to fall over, but testing reveals they have strength and balance reactions in their trunk and extremities that serve them well and keep them off the ground.

So be proactive. Make an appointment with a physical therapist and find out where you are in the spectrum of fall risk.

That baseline information can be used at future checkups to assure you that you can still trap chipmunks safely and without falling.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

For Your Health

TURNING 65? MEDICARE ADVICE FROM A HEALTH INSURANCE EXPERT

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BY STEPHANIE FRISCH

o matter their level of understanding of health insurance, many people are served well by a quick refresher course on Medicare. Advertisements on TV and in magazines indicate as much— ‘Are you confused about when to enroll for Medicare?’ and variations thereof is a common line on the airwaves.

So here’s a basic overview of what to expect as you approach 65.

Once you enroll in Original Medicare, you’ll have a choice of using Medicare as your primary medical insurance and purchasing a supplemental to Medicare to cover medical and hospital costs. You will then also need to purchase a prescription drug plan (whether you need it or not at the time, or face a penalty). Another option would be to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan—this is a health plan offered by private health insurance companies that contract with Medicare to provide the same benefits that Medicare offers, but they go further in coverage and generally include prescription drug coverage and additional benefits at no cost. These plans are mostly an HMO, and there are a few PPO plans left in Orange County, but they may change for 2017.

Medicare is broken into two parts—Part A covers hospitalization, skilled nursing and hospice to some degree, and Part

the gaps of Original Medicare coverage).

You won’t be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part B unless you took your Social Security early at age 62 or at an earlier age because of a disability. Part A enrollment happens automatically when you turn 65 (and is at no cost to you if you or your spouse paid into it for 40 quarters while working).

The reason this is the case now versus a few years ago or when your parents turned 65 is because the age that someone gets fully vested into social security is increasing. It used to be age 65, so when someone applied for their Social Security benefits, Medicare would be notified that they were turning 65 and mail out a card with both Part A and B activated. If someone didn’t want Part B at that time (because of group coverage most likely) they’d sign the attachment refusing that coverage.

What I find is happening now is that people expect their Medicare card to arrive with Part A and B activated automatically and both aren’t; their card arrives with only Part A activated. They may not look at it closely, they just tuck it away, and when the time comes to enroll in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plan, there is a “uh-oh” moment because they assumed they were all set to go and now they have to scramble to get to the Social Security office and get the Part B portion activated.

The protocol now for Part B to be activated is either going online to www. medicare.gov to do that, or going in to the closest Social Security office. The earliest you can activate Part B is three months

The key is that you must have both Part A and Part B active in order to enroll in a Medicare Advantage (also known as Part C) or a Medicare Supplemental plan (which fills in the gaps of Original Medicare coverage).

B covers 80 percent of outpatient and all physician services. There’s also Part C and Part D, but let’s focus on A and B. The key is that you must have both Part A and Part B active in order to enroll in a Medicare Advantage (also known as Part C) or a Medicare Supplemental plan (which fills in page 10

prior to your 65th birthday.

There is a lot of financial exposure having only Original Medicare and nothing else to fill in the gaps. Medicare doesn’t cover outpatient prescription drug coverage either, you have to enroll in a plan offered by a private insurance company.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

Seniors with the San Clemente Village celebrate the nonprofits launch in Hawaiian-style at the Outlets.

Photo: Courtesy

IT TAKES A VILLAGE SC Village helps local seniors lead independent lives

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BY AMANDA GIANNELLI

t is hard to define what you need, and sometimes, even harder to ask for it.

Sherry Reams is a San Clemente local who worked as a stock broker and traveled around the country for her entire career. Though her work ethic and determination had her striving to work until her 70th birthday, she reluctantly retired at 69 years old. Still living on her own, Reams would say, “I don’t need help, because who wants to think of themselves as old?”

Reams is one of many with this mentality, and that is why the nonprofit San Clemente Village isn’t here just to help, but to enhance the lives of seniors in the community.

Reams founded San Clemente Village about a year ago and has now become the vice chairperson of the organization.

It’s part of the Village to Village Network, which started in Beacon Hill, Boston.

After receiving television recognition, City Councilman Bob Baker, and Nancy Sutherland, a member of San Clemente’s Human Affairs Committee, both got involved and started to promote this “neighbors helping neighbors” organization.

Today, there are close to 300 villages in the country. San Clemente has now joined that list with a Village launched this September at The Outlets in San Clemente.

San Clemente Village offers not only transportation for members, but along

with assistance with simple maintenance or technical problems, the membership can include the ability to go to social outings with like-minded people like going wine tasting or taking a day to see San Diego or the Julian Trails. There are volunteer opportunities all around San Clemente for which members can easily sign up. Members must be 55 or older and live in San Clemente. All the vendors that are available to the members are prescreened and all the volunteers helping the organization are interviewed to ensure both safety and comfort. Those who purchase a one year’s membership by Sept. 30 will also receive an extra three months free, along with a free additional membership of the same value for another person living in the same residence.

Reams said that any “members who are interested in the community should know their community is interested in them.” As a small Spanish beach town, the surfers are seen, the youth is always heard, but we seem to forget to ask the question “What about the seniors?”

The future for San Clemente Village is bright, “As we grow, we want potential members to look forward to joining with us.” Sherry said. “Let’s make each decade wonderful. Let’s enhance their lives.”

For more information on becoming a member, a volunteer or joining the referral network, visit www.scvillage.org or call 949.441.1348. page 11

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

AGING WELL… as told by locals

G

My life partner, Greta Cohn, who retired in 2007 after 31 years of being a special education teacher at RH Dana Exceptional Needs Facility in Dana Point, believes that exercise is critical to aging well. Three mornings a week Greta does water aerobics with a group of 37 women and four men. And, on Tuesday mornings, she does Tai Chi at the Doris Walker Memorial Area in Heritage Park with a group of men and women. And on Thursday morning, she attends a Tai Chi class at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center next to the Marco Forster Middle School. Greta also volunteers in the Ocean Institute Gift Shop.

BY TOM BLAKE

rowing older doesn’t have to be something to dread. In fact, most of the retired and senior people I encounter are “aging well.” Our tri-city area provides a plethora of activities and opportunities for getting out, getting involved and enjoying life.

Here is how some of our local citizens are embracing life while growing older.

One of the reasons that John Bates is aging well is he gave up his car even

Brad and Judy Brandmeier are aging well. The former owners of Beacon

Printing in Dana Point are now retired.

They were enjoying the free outdoor concert at Dana Point’s Sea Terrace Park on Sunday, Aug. 7, while sitting in a nice shady spot with friends, grooving to the sounds of Hot August Night, a Neil Diamond tribute band. They looked relaxed and were having an enjoyable time. Judy and Brad do a great amount of volunteer work for the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.

before he retired a few years back and rides his bicycle from his San Juan Capistrano home to Dana Point Harbor and other destinations around South Orange County. John admits that his wife, Judy, still owns her car and once in a while he’ll ride in that when they are going to out-of-the-way destinations. Pumping that bicycle keeps John in good shape.

Four to five times a week— Russell Kerr, the past Chairman of the

Carole Kelly says, “I believe it is very important as we age to stay both physically and mentally active.” She teaches swimming at the San Clemente Sports Park on Vista Hermosa, Aqua Exercise for 24-Hour Fitness, and gives private swimming lessons for children. She walks in Dana Point Harbor daily and volunteers one day a week at Doheny Beach as a docent in the Visitor’s/Interpretive Center. Need to learn how to swim? Go see Carole.

Chris Anastasio, San Clemente, lets no grass grow under his feet. At

Ron and Lee Cohan, Dana Point,

former owners of Zia Jewelry, San Juan Capistrano, exercise nearly every day of the week whether it be swimming, walking, doing Tai Chi or ballroom dancing. I saw them on the dance floor on a recent Saturday night at the San Juan Capistrano Mission, swinging to the sounds of True Willie, a Willie Nelson tribute band, along with hundreds of other country music fans. Exercise is their top priority in retirement.

age 81, he still travels the world half of the year with his girlfriend Tina, who lives in England. An email I recently sent to Chris came back with this message: “I am on the road again. I’ll be gone until the Fourth of September.”

And the email had this sign-off: “Life is like a book. If you haven’t traveled, you have only read the first page; but if you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion, and avoid the people, you might as well stay home.”

Chris volunteers as a dance host at the San Clemente Villas and always dresses up as Santa Claus for the Christmas parties there. page 12

Board of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, who just turned 70 and is retired from the Edward Jones Company—and I do stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) together at Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor.

We aren’t the only old-timers doing SUP at Baby Beach, there are probably a couple hundred men and women paddling each day, even more on weekends. It’s almost like a fraternity the people are so friendly.

All it takes to age well in the tri-city area is a little initiative to find out what is best for each person and to make an effort to get out there. Saddleback College Emeritus Institute lists 26 tuition-free classes for older adults for this fall www. saddleback.edu/emeritus. That’s a good place to start.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

SECOND CALLING SENIOR VOLUNTEERS CONNECT WITH OC NONPROFITS FOR NEW CAREERS

Members of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) were honored among other volunteers at the OneOC Senior Symposium. Photo: Courtesy OneOC

T

BY MATT CORTINA

here are a myriad of ways for seniors to stay active and busy during their retirement years. Some pick up new hobbies (or ones of which they’ve dreamed for years), others work part-time at local businesses. But many seniors are increasingly turning to volunteering as a rewarding and satisfying way to stay busy and help their communities.

There is local support for seniors looking to volunteer in Orange County.

OneOC is a nonprofit organization that matches volunteers with groups looking for help—it’s everything from seasonal work to prominent board positions.

Maria Lemus, volunteer services coordinator at OneOC, said the relationship between senior volunteers and nonprofits is mutually beneficial.

“A lot of nonprofits are very excited to know that we have a pool of individuals who have experience, they have the time commitment and have a passion about serving,” Lemus said. “What we’ve heard from our volunteers is that they are very excited to volunteer because it gives them something to do. They’re able to socialize, so they get to meet individuals … with the same interests as themselves.”

Many volunteers come equipped with a lifetime of career skills and knowledge, which equates to a productive volunteering experience. OneOC matches seniors with nonprofits looking for help based not only on interest, but on skill level.

“We do emphasize having (our program) be very skill-based, so it’s not just sending out our volunteers,” said Floridel Martinez, communications specialist at OneOC. “I know a lot of our volunteers … say the work they’re doing really does mean something because they’re using their skills and page 13

being able to apply it more directly.”

OneOC does offer training to volunteers, particularly those who want to serve as board members at nonprofits. The range of opportunities for all seniors interested in volunteering is vast—and searchable via their website—but can be categorized into several main groups.

“A lot of our nonprofit partners that are part of this program, they focus on education, disaster preparedness, health and wellness and public safety programs,” Lemus said.

Lemus added that OneOC runs the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), with more than 400 volunteers serving in those specific areas. Members of RSVP who reach certain landmarks (like 4,000 hours volunteered, for instance) are honored annually at a celebration.

OneOC, through all their volunteer connections, worked with more than 43,000 volunteers last year, who logged more than one million volunteer hours.

Lemus said the volunteer opportunities in Orange County also allow seniors to either pivot from their previous interests, or double down and find new outlets for their lives’ work.

“I think a lot of the time, seniors are very committed to (their volunteer responsibilities), because they’re looking for something very different from their first career,” Lemus said. “Individuals working in an office setting with very little social interaction, now they’re looking for the exact opposite. People in education, for instance, either they’re very passionate and keep with it or they decide they want something different, they want to build something. It’s the next career in life.”

Those interested in volunteering can browse www.oneoc.org for opportunities in the county.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

NUTRITION AND DAILY CALORIE INTAKE for adults over 50

DAILY CALORIE LEVELS FOR WOMEN OVER 50 Common sense tells us that the number of calories needed to maintain health is related to the amount of activity a person is willing, or able, to undertake. The chart below illustrates some basic guidelines.

1,600

Lower physical activity: only performs activities associated with typical day-to-day life

1,800

Lower physical activity: walks the equivalent of 1.5 to 3 miles a day at 3 to 4 miles per hour

2,100

Active lifetstyle: walks the equivalent of more than 3 miles a day at 3 to 4 miles per hour

CALORIES CALORIES CALORIES

DAILY CALORIE LEVELS FOR MEN OVER 50

2,100

Lower physical activity: only performs activities associated with typical day-to-day life

2,300

Lower physical activity: walks the equivalent of 1.5 to 3 miles a day at 3 to 4 miles per hour

2,600

Active lifestyle: walks the equivalent of more than 3 miles a day at 3 to 4 miles per hour

CALORIES CALORIES CALORIES

Source: National Institutes of Health

Fresh or frozen, vegetables contain a wealth of nutrients, as well a healthy dose of fiber.

Asparagus is one of the most nutritionally wellbalanced vegetables—high in folic acid and a good source of potassium, fiber, thiamin, and vitamins A, B6, and C. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C and other essential nutrients.

Along with citrus fruits and other berries, they also contain phytochemicals, whose health benefits are beginning to be researched.

VEGETABLES

creating a

FRUITS

HEALTHY

plate

Grains are a staple of any healthy diet. Those who eat whole grains may enjoy a reduced risk of many chronic diseases. Grains are packed with elements of good nutritional value such as iron, magnesium, fiber, B vitamins and more. The USDA suggests making half your grain intake whole grains.

Protein is an essential nutrient, made up of 20 amino acids, or building blocks, that our bodies need. The USDA says our best sources of protein come from meat, poultry, seafood, beens and peas, eggs, processed soy, nuts and seeds.

WHOLE GRAINS

PROTEIN, DAIRY & HEALTHY OILS

ORDER IN

MEALS ON WHEELS BRINGS FOOD AND FRIENDSHIP TO SENIORS’ DOORSTEPS

S

BY MATT CORTINA

pinach cannelloni. Pineapple glazed ham. A harvest vegetable plate. Those are just some of the 300,000 meals delivered annually to Orange County seniors via the Age Well Senior Services Meals on Wheels program. And in South Orange County, about 400 people depend on the food preparation and delivery program for their three square meals every day.

The process by which the meals are delivered to residents involves a lot of moving parts—including a cadre of volunteers to help deliver the meals and meet with senior residents. It starts when a senior over the age of 60 in South Orange County contacts Age Well and signs up for the service.

Though the program receives federal funding, a $7.50 per day donation is suggested— though no senior is ever turned away.

The meals are prepared by Langlois in

Meals on Wheels delivers three meals a day from a rotating menu to over 400 residents in South Orange County.

Photo: Courtesy Age Well

Laguna Beach, a company that specializes in frozen and specialty meals for groups like seniors. Lisa Gibson, the nutrition director at Age Well, designs the menus every month to meet key health goals for the service’s recipients.

“We base the nutrient requirement on a sedentary 70-year-old woman,” Gibson

said. “1,600 calories per day. The sodium is under 2,300 milligrams a day. And we have to get all the vitamins and minerals.”

The meals are portion-controlled and are generally not catered to specific therapeutic diets, like blood pressure or diabetic diets. That’s because all meals possess a healthy level of calories, sodium and other

page 14

elements, and specific diets can leave out valuable nutrients for seniors like protein.

Once the meals are prepared, the real magic of the Meals on Wheels program begins. An all-volunteer staff of delivery drivers are tasked with making stops for lunch and dinner, with breakfast included in the last delivery of the day. Volunteers are asked to perform home checks on the recipients, to ensure that people involved in the program are healthy and living in a relatively good situation. That said, the state of many seniors who are on the program might surprise their neighbors.

“You have no idea how some people are living. People have the perception of all of South Orange County being very wealthy and it’s not,” Gibson said, adding that the home checks are important because many seniors will say they’re doing fine on the phone when their reality is slightly different.

For many of the program’s clients, the highlight is the interaction with volunteers.

“Some of the clients, they don’t want to talk so they just take the meal and go inside, but others you can hardly say goodbye,” Gibson said. “Our volunteers will be an extra hour on the route because they develop relationships with the client.

They’ll take trips and send postcards back.”

Gibson said the program generally has enough volunteers, but that the size of the group ebbs and flows. Many volunteers are seniors themselves, and transition into recipients of the meals.

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

EDITOR’S PICK

What’s going on in and around town

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 26 MISSION ART WALK 11-11:45 a.m. Mission San Juan Capistrano is now offering art walks every Friday. The docent-guided 45-minute tour teaches visitors about the collection of rare paintings related to the Mission’s history, dating back to the 1700s. Walks cost $8 per adult in addition to paid admission. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

BARKS & BREWS 5-8 p.m. Celebrate your pooch on National Dog Day at Outlets at San Clemente. Dinner will be available from food trucks like The Classic Tacos & DogTown Dogs, as well as cold beer from Left Coast Brewing Company. There’s also live entertainment, a doggy costume parade with prizes, photo booths and free treats. All proceeds benefit the Pet Project Foundation. Outlets at San Clemente. 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. www.shoposc.com/woof.

DANNY GRIEGO & THE ELECTRIC TUMBLEWEEDS 7:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Saturday | 27 OHANA MUSIC FESTIVAL 1 p.m. The lineup for the second annual event on Saturday and Sunday at Doheny State Beach includes Eddie Vedder, Lana Del Rey, Elvis Costello, Cat Power, Band of Horses and more. In addition to offering a full day in the sun with a diverse music lineup, Ohana will donate a portion of proceeds to the San Onofre Parks Foundation.

Craft beer, wine, and signature cocktails, as well as artisan food options from local restaurants and food trucks will be available all day long. Tickets start at $99.50 for a full-day pass. www.theohanafest.com.

FROM PLASTIC TO FANTASTIC 6-9 p.m. Join the Surfing Heritage and Cultural Center (SHACC) to celebrate the opening of their latest exhibition, “From Plastic to Fantastic,” which showcases innovative apparel made from plastic and other recyclable material. A no-host bar and appetizers from L&L Hawaiian

Photo: Copyright © Focus Features

Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27 AND SUNDAY, AUGUST 28: 16TH ANNUAL RANCHO MISSION VIEJO RODEO 1 p.m. Enjoy a weekend full of old-time family entertainment at the richest two-day rodeo in the nation, where the top 30 contestants in saddle bronc, bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping come to the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park for the chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 1 p.m. on Saturday with the rodeo starting at 4 p.m. On Sunday, gates open at 10:30 a.m. with a 1:30 p.m. rodeo. Saturday evening ends with a concert and dance. $30 per day for adults, $10 for children 4-12 and free for kids 3 and under. 30753 La Pata Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.842.3782. www.rmvrodeo.com.

BBQ will be available. Free admission for SHACC members, and $5 for the general public. 110 Calle Iglesia, San Clemente.

949.388.0313. www.surfingheritage.org.

be a variety of craft beers available.

Cannons will be providing appetizers and dessert. All proceeds will be used to provide a “Welcome Home” for returning deployed Marines and their families in September. Reservations are $30 per person. Cannons Seafood Grill. 34344 Street of the Green Lantern, Dana Point.

949.496.6146. www.marinecorpsleaguesouthcoast.org.

RODEO PARTY FEATURING ROB STALEY BAND 7 p.m. Rodeo Week comes to a close at Bad to the Bone BBQ with a rodeo party featuring the Rob Staley Band. The evening includes dancing and a full bar.

31738 Rancho Viejo Road, 949.493.4700, www.facebook.com/SJCRodeoWeek.

Thursday | 01

Monday | 29 DANA POINT 50-YEAR TTIME CAPSULE OPENING 4-6 p.m. Watch the unveiling ceremony of a time capsule buried 50 years ago in the Dana Point Harbor. If you have an original BBQ dinner ticket from the 1966 Time Capsule Ceremony, you can use that ticket to receive a complimentary BBQ dinner.

Event is free for spectators. Baby Beach.

34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. www.danapointharbor.com.

Wednesday | 31 MARINES CORPS LEAGUE WINE AND BEER TASTING BENEFIT 6-8:30 p.m. Six vintners will offer 16 different wines to be sampled, plus there will

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

OC PARKS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 6-8 p.m. JR JR with Big Monsta will perform during the summer concert. The event is free and open to the public. There will be food trucks, a beer tent and more.

Buff Park at Salt Creek Beach. 33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

949.923.2280.

Friday | 02 FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7-8:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library presents a movie night featuring Puerto Ricans in Paris, an R-rated comedy starring Luis Guzmán and Edgar Garcia. A $2 donation supports the library. La Sala Auditorium, San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495-A El Camino Real.

949.493.1752. www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

(Cont. on page 12)

Page 11

At the Movies: ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’ Strikes a Chord

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

M

oving to the complete opposite spectrum of Sausage Party from last week, the end of August gives us the family-friendly Kubo and the Two Strings. The movie is produced by Laika Entertainment, which has brought back the medium of stop-motion animation that was common in the 1980s before CGI became the default technique. Though making only modest hits with audiences, critics have praised the company for expanding the limits of animation with Coraline (2009), Paranorman (2012) and now Kubo.

In a small Japanese village, Kubo (Art Parkinson) is suddenly orphaned when his single mother is killed saving him from two vengeful witches (both voiced by Rooney Mara). Now he must discover his destiny and family’s past connected to his magical guitar, and how his new friends—a talking monkey (Charlize Theron) and a life-size talking beetle (Matthew McConaughey)—fit into everything.

George Takei and Ralph Fiennes co-star. Kubo’s main strengths are its stop-motion production— especially in an era where 2D animation has been obsolete for almost a decade in favor of the easy and fast convenience of CGI—and guitar-heavy music score

by Dario Marianelli. Though CGI can be impressive in its own right, Laika’s stop-motion is fresh and exhilarating to view on the big screen. The story of Kubo and the Two Strings is fairly basic and could have had a stronger third act, but Regina Spektor’s lovely cover of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” along with the visuals almost makes up for it. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

Saturday | 02

rano Library, 31495-A El Camino Real.

949.493.1752. www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

TOUR OF ECOLOGY CENTER 10 a.m. Join The Ecology Center for a guided tour of their historic home, built by pony express rider Joel Congdon in 1878. $5 suggested donation. The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.443.4223. www.theecologycenter.org.

MONARCHS OF JAZZ 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a three-course dinner and listen to an evening of live music.

Tickets are $195; VIP tickets are $250 and include a meet and greet with the artists and premier seating. Monarch Beach Resort. One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point. 949.234.3200. www.monarchbeachresort.com.

FAMILY FILM FEATURE 10-11:30 a.m. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library presents a familyfriendly matinee film the first Saturday of the month. This month features Ratchet & Clank. Free admission and popcorn.

La Sala Auditorium, San Juan Capist-

View the full “Event Calendar” at www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

Have an event? Send your listing to events@thecapistranodispatch.com.

Coach House: Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals

BY MATT CORTINA, DANA POINT TIMES

W

hen Felix Cavaliere comes to the Coach House, he’ll be bringing more than his iteration of the iconic ’60s band The Young Rascals. Fifty years since hitting No. 1 on the Billboard charts, he’s bringing songs that helped define a generation.

The Rascals recorded hit after hit in the ’60s before disbanding in 1972. Before they did, they laid the tracks to favorites such as “I’ve Been Lonely Too Long,” “Groovin’” (No. 1 in 1967), “How Can I Be Sure,” “A Girl Like You,” “A Beautiful Morning,” and “People Got to Be Free” (No. 1 in 1968).

“There is no better feeling than to hear your song on the radio,” Cavaliere said in a press release. “We were young kids and we just wanted to play music—Good Lovin’ really surprised us as a hit, but as they say, the rest is history. People still associate that song with us, and we’re all so proud that

it’s been a part of many generations’ lives.”

Cavaliere now records and lives in Nashville.

Many may not know he’s an illustriously decorated musician, having been inducted as member of the Rascals into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Grammy Hall of Fame and Vocal Group Hall of Fame, as well as an individual enshrinement in the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Cavaliere is touring the country with his Rascals, and will be stopping by the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Saturday, Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. CD

The Best Thing We Ate This Week

Escargots de Bourgogne L’HIRONDELLE

31631 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.0425. www.lhirondellesjc.com

The stigma of snails, seemingly born from and perpetuated exclusively by cartoon kids’ shows, has long prevented the critter from taking off on U.S. menus. Though that needs Escargots de Bourgogne. Photo: Matt Cortina to end, it makes the snail unique to elsewhere—namely, France, and namelier, Burgundy.

A trip to points between Lyon and Beaune will reveal a landscape that is aggressively fertile (not unlike snails, FYI), that produces rustic foods, wines and spirits that taste like the terroir.

Cooked in boiling hot butter and garlic and served on a special plate, L’Hirondelle’s take is traditional and well-executed. The snails are imported from the South Pacific or Europe, depending on the season, and are cooked unshelled (snails are typically sold canned, later placed in shells) to unctuous perfection. The bite is fatty, warm and a little dirty, with pops of heat from the garlic, and a lasting savoriness that connects the dish between bites.—Matt Cortina Page 12

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

Frustrated Senior Dating

D

ating again after losing a mate can be overwhelming, particularly for senior women. This week, Brenda (not her true name) shared her frustrations.

Brenda said, “I am a widow of two years.

A year ago, I was on two internet dating sites for three weeks. I met several men, but they were mostly just awful; they were negative or had issues. So I got off both sites.

“Recently I got back on one to try again! It’s very strange to be ‘dating’ at this age! I am not looking to remarry or even live ON LIFE AND with a man, but I do want LOVE AFTER 50 a special relationship. I

By Tom Blake had a loving and devoted husband for over 30 years, and I miss being someone’s special someone.

“Trouble is I am 68, and for people over age 60, I read that there are four to five times as many women as men. So, the older men have their pick of women. I have met about 12 or 13 men for coffee dates that I would not be caught dead with.

“I have a full life with friends (even male friends) and activities. I do volunteer work and take salsa and square dance classes.

I am fit, healthy, active, intelligent and educated. I am attractive, fun-loving, warm and nurturing. I am financially set and have a nice home.”

Brenda, I understand your frustration.

Your marriage of 30 years to a loving and devoted husband has set the bar very high for another loving relationship. And I commend you for putting yourself out there on the internet. Since you asked for my opinion, I will comment on five items. Do not take the comments personally.

1. The number of available men. At age 60, the ratio is not four or five women to each available man, but closer to three-to-one. At 68, it is a bit wider. So, although the ratio is daunting, it’s not quite as bad as you have suggested. Plus, the lack of men doesn’t

appear to be your problem. When you first went on the dating sites for three weeks, you met “several” men, whom you said were “mostly just awful.” I assume that means that one or two of those men weren’t so bad.

2. Your attitude toward dating and the men you are meeting. You say you “hate dating.” That feeling is evident in your email and might be just as evident when you meet these men in person. Drop the word “hate” from your dating vocabulary.

You also said, “…so many loser men out there.” Your negative attitude toward men may be turning potentially good men into disappearing ones. No man will match what you had with your husband.

3. Your problem isn’t meeting men, it is meeting the wrong type of men. The words, “I was lookin’ for love in all the wrong places,” from the 1980 Johnny Lee song “Lookin’ For Love” may apply to you.

I suggest you be more selective in the guys you agree to go out with. Look in the right places. Try different internet sites and get out and volunteer in a myriad of places.

4. From what you say, you’ve got it all: health, friends, active lifestyle, financially set, a nice home, intelligence, fun-loving attitude, warmth and a nurturing side. Look in the mirror, appreciate what you have, and get out there and help others who are less fortunate. Give back.

5. How soon is too soon to give up seeking a mate? Age 90 to 95 would be when you might say, “I’m not going to look for a man anymore.” That’s about 22 years from now.

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.findingloveafter60.com; www.Vicsta.com and www.

Travelafter55.com. Email: tompblake@ gmail.com. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@ thecapistranodispatch.com.

Dustin Rief, David Kerber, Kevin Jack and Bryan Powers of Mercer Advisors participate in the fourth annual HOPE Golf Tournament. Photo: Courtesy of Laura’s House

SCENE { I N S AN JUAN }

Laura’s House Raises Funds for Domestic Violence Services

Laura’s House, a local nonprofit committed to ending domestic violence, held its fourth annual HOPE Golf Tour-

nament at Marbella Country Club in San Juan Capistrano

on Aug. 8. The event, sponsored by South County Lexus and chaired by Monica Timpe, raised $62,000 to benefit

Laura’s House and its programs, including an emergency

shelter, transitional housing, a 24-hour crisis hotline, legal services and counseling and education programs.

For more than 20 years, Laura’s House has served those

whose lives have been affected by domestic violence.

Over the past two decades, Laura’s House has provided

shelter and support services to more than 4,000 battered women and children, and counseling, life skills education and legal assistance to nearly 50,000 people.

—Allison Jarrelll

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Dirt Therapy by Marianne Taylor

Home Cooking: Is It Really That Hard?

What was once a lost art is back and gaining momentum

O

verwhelmed by a long day of work, you’re tired, the kids are starving, you go to the refrigerator and you’ve got nothing to eat—your worst nightmare. What do you do? Call for takeout? Go to the freezer to search for that TV dinner? Or better yet, run out again for fast food? Welcome to the daily dinner dilemma.

Are people really overwhelmed by home cooking? I’m the first to say yes, since I grew up with a mother who DIRT THERAPY baked more and cooked

By Marianne Taylor less. You could say she cooked, if you call goulash cooking! My mother would dump a variety of items in a pot every night, creating a mystery meat meal. We never quite knew what we were eating, let alone how to remake it if we did like it. Cooking was a challenge for my mom, and it is for me today.

Why? Probably because we both didn’t learn the basic cooking skill set that is needed to be proficient in the kitchen.

When you’re proficient at a skill, you’re not so overwhelmed in doing it.

Cooking nightly at my house has often turned into the infamous goulash, or reproducing the same comfort foods that are easy to remember. I call it my cooking rut; I have to push myself to find a new recipe and then gather the momentum to plan, shop, prepare and cook—sometimes the entire process is overwhelming. It’s a chore.

Turns out I’m not alone—we have many generations of people who had access to so many convenience foods that they just didn’t learn. No fault of theirs, we were just living in a time in society where focus was not on home skill sets but more on career path. Those ideals are changing with more and more people wanting to get connected to their food source and health.

Making your own meals at home is, quite simply, far less expensive than dining out, takeout or prepackaged meals at home.

However, many people simply don’t do it for two reasons: it’s inconvenient, or they have no idea how to prepare a good meal.

With numerous cooking channels, the internet, YouTube videos and social media like Pinterest, everything you need to know to create a great meal is at your fingertips. It’s all there right in front of us, and yet why do we still feel challenged?

It’s all about time management and planning. Take the next 10 minutes and look at your last week’s schedule—how many times did you eat out and how many times did you eat at home? (Sorry, eating takeout at home or ordering pizza doesn’t count as

eating in!) OK, so you ate out more—don’t be too hard on yourself, just write it down.

Your next step is to make the time to plan and shop. If you fail to follow this step, your plans will fail. Start with planning one easy dinner for next week, and maybe doubling the recipe so it will feed you for lunch the next day. Increase a meal each week until you have more dinners at home than out.

Need recipes? You can find an array of home-cooked meals for beginners online.

I also like the book How to Cook Everything by Mark Bittman, which features simple recipes for great food. Check out www.bbcgoodfood.com and pick up 25 skills every cook should know by Sarah Lienard. Learning these skills will help a kitchen beginner gain more confidence and whip up meals in no time.

Now that you have the recipes, it’s time to prepare your shopping list. I often use www.healthyeating.org to organize my shopping list. The website also offers a food personality quiz and ideas for last minute meals.

While in the grocery store, be sure to shop the perimeters—stay out of the center unless you need spices and canned items. The centers of all grocery stores have the most processed foods. Don’t forget to purchase organic produce or stop by a local produce stand or farm.

With food and recipes in hand, it’s cooking time! If you’re still unsure about cooking from scratch, make it fun and invite your kids or enlist a friend to join in learning new skills while cooking dinner together. Remember to keep cooking fun and not a chore. Cooking at home is not only financially rewarding, it can be quite spiritually rewarding once you gain some basic skills.

Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens will be offering Goin Healthy cooking classes at the Boys & Girls Club for club kids ages 11-13, making cooking a lifelong fun, healthy habit. For more information, email marianne@goinnative.net.

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

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

A stream of people converges in the middle of Avenida La Pata for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 13.

Photo: Eric Heinz

La Pata Opens with Fanfare

BY ERIC HEINZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

fter about 20 years of contemplation and two years of construction, the long-awaited Avenida La Pata Gap Connection—a 2.3-mile stretch of road connecting San Juan Capistrano and San

Clemente—officially opened at 8 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 14. On Aug. 13, a ribboncutting ceremony took place in the middle of the road to celebrate the completion of the project. CD

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9.

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

Pet of the Week: Confetti

C

onfetti, a 3-year-old Calico beauty with gorgeous markings and green eyes, came aboard The Ark from the Orange County shelter with her five newborn kittens. All of her kittens are grown and have found homes, but Confetti is still waiting in The Cattery at the San Juan PetSmart for her forever family. She is very sweet, likes other cats, plays and loves to snuggle.

To meet Confetti, you can attend weekend adoption events on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Cattery, or contact The Ark at 949.388.0034 or cat@ arkofsanjuan.org to arrange a meeting.

The Ark of San Juan is a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that

Page 16

Confetti. Photo: Courtesy of The Ark of San Juan.

rescues adoptable animals in San Juan Capistrano and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit www.arkofsanjuan.org. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY LOCALS ONLY

BUSINESS LISTINGS AUTOMOBILE REPAIR

Star Motors

32959 Calle Perfecto, 949.443.1970, www.star-motors.com

ELECTRICIANS

Excel Electric

32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, 949.493.7769, www.excelelectric.com

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

Excel Electric - CA #793860

32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, 949.493.7769, www.excelelectric.com

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San Juan Photo & Digital

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

32301 Camino Capistrano, 949.661.5668, www.sjcphotodigital.com

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Bryan Krueger Enterprises, Inc. 33208 Paseo De Cerveza, Ste. B, 949.212.0499

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools 32032 Del Obispo Street, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org

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YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100! Write-up of 50 words with logo.

CLASSIFIEDS

Submit your classified ad online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com

FOR SALE YAMAHA 750CC 1997 12,000k perfect condition. $1,000. gailgeorge10@hotmail.com CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring.

We sell tile too! Mike 949-240-1545.

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

GARAGE SALES

HELP WANTED

SERVICES

GARAGE SALE Small tools, supplies and equipment.

Must liquidate everything. Saturday August 27, 8 AM to 12 PM. 24965 Dana Maple, Dana Point NO EARLY BIRDS.

HOUSEKEEPING – HOUSEKEEPERS, HOUSEMEN, LAUNDRY ROOM – Full time – Immediate openings, paid holidays and vacation time.

FRONT DESK CLERKS/RESERVATION AGENTS – Part time, weekends. Apply in person – Dana Point Marina Inn, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, Ca 92629 949-496-1203

HANDYMAN CHRIS Flat screen TV’s installed, anything Electrical, Plumbing, Finish Carpentry, Drywall Repairs, Mold and Wood Rot issues, Waterproofing, Decks and Patio covers repaired, Doors, Windows, Kitchens and Baths, Water Damage Restoration, Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication and Much More. Phone Chris – 949 510 6645

Do you want to reach 24,150+ people in the San Juan Capistrano area?

WOOD DECK REPAIR WIZZARD Wood Rot Repair Certified Specialist, Wood Decks, Balconies, Patio Covers + Outside Stairs Repaired / Replaced, New Decking Systems, All work Guaranteed. Phone Chris -949 510 6645

MONTESSORI SCHOOL LIQUIDATION Everything sold by the pile. This sale is ideal for educators; a 25-year collection of high-end educational tools for children. Friday and Saturday, August 26 and 27 from 10am to 5pm and Sunday, August 28 from 2pm to 5pm. Bring cash and your own boxes. Questions: call Harry 949 697 1411 Sterling Estate Sales.

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

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

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Page 17

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

San Juan Capistrano Preps Football Season Kicks Off

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he 2016 high school football season is underway, and one local team already picked up its first win.

For scores, in-game updates and news more for all San Juan prep football teams, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

TARTANS BATTLE THE ELEMENTS FOR FIRST WIN IN HAWAII The St. Margaret’s football team might have had the most desirable season-opening game in Orange County. The Tartans kicked off their season with a trip to Hawaii and a matchup against Hawaii Preparatory Academy of Kamuela on Aug. 20.

But despite being in paradise, the Tartans were all business when they took the field. St. Margaret’s battled against tricky wind conditions and came away with a 41-7 victory.

The wind was consistently gusting early in the game, which negated the ability of senior quarterback George Krantz. The Tartans pivoted to a run-first approach, and sophomore running back Koa Todd was up to the challenge. The rising sophomore ran for 226 yards and two touchdowns, racking up 117 yards in the first half.

“The wind was a huge factor in the game. … We needed Koa to carry the load, and he did a great job of running after contact and making guys miss,” head coach Stephen Barbee said via email.

While the Tartans’ running attack was the star of the game, the defense also made its presence felt. Senior linebacker Nick Amoukhteh scored the team’s first touchdown of the season after recovering a Hawaii Prep fumble in the end zone in the first quarter.

Krantz, who passed for over 3,000 yards and tossed 43 touchdowns as a junior, also made an impact. The senior connected with receiver Austin Locke for a long touchdown pass in a decisive third quarter. Senior running back Nick Krantz also scored in the third and Todd punched in his second touchdown of the game during the quarter.

For Barbee, the versatility of the team’s

The St. Margaret’s varsity and junior varsity teams played Hawaii Preparatory Academy on Aug. 20. Photo: Courtesy

offense and tenacity on defense was the key to the game.

“We decided that we were going to have to win the game the old-fashioned way and grind it out. They had no problem with us having to change the game plan early in the game,” Barbee said.

The Tartans arrived in Hawaii on Aug. 16, which allowed them to soak in the culture and also lend a hand through community service. The team volunteered at two churches during the week, where they washed windows, weeded out gardens and chopped down trees.

SAN JUAN HILLS SET TO HOST DOS PUEBLOS The big question heading in to San Juan Hills’ game against Dos Pueblos on Aug. 26 will be “Who is starting at quarterback?”

The Stallions are looking for a replacement for Patrick O’Brien, who is now at Nebraska. Juniors Matt Rodriguez and Doug Jackson were fighting for the starting job in the offseason.

Whoever starts for San Juan Hills will be surrounded by playmakers. The San Juan Hills receiving corps is one of the better

Scoreboard THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

The California Football Academy’s girls 2001 team placed first in its division at the San Clemente Surf Summer Classic on Aug. 21. Photo: Courtesy

Local Soccer Team Wins Big at SC Surf Classic The California Football Academy’s girls 2001 team won their division at the San Clemente Surf Summer Classic tournament on Aug. 21.

The team, which draws players from San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente, went undefeated in four straight victories.

The team includes Dafne Saldivar,

The Capistrano Dispatch August 26-September 9, 2016

groups in the area, and features returners Jacob Huff and Cayden McCluskey. Running backs Brock Cazel and Cole Suchesk will do the damage on the ground.

Dos Pueblos is coming off a 3-7 season, and returns quarterback Kellen Roberts.

Roberts threw for 2,082 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2015.

JSERRA GETS HIGH-PROFILE MATCHUP WITH NORCAL CONTENDER Sacramento Charter High School will be making the long drive south to play against JSerra at Saddleback College on Aug. 26.

The Dragons ran away with the Metropolitan League title last season and advanced to the second round of the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division 2 Championships. Sacramento Charter is coached by Justin Reber, the former head coach at Saddleback Valley Christian and someone who is very familiar with the local programs.

JSerra is a very young team this year, and will be led by returning junior quarterback Matt Robinson and senior Riley O’Brien, who will be an impact player on both offense and defense.

Savannah Burns, Alyssa Smith, Gianna Garrido, Charlotte Jones, Lucy Terry, McKenna Alverez, Juliana Craft, Caitlyn King, Paige Campbell, Isabell Peloso, Peyton Lynch, Brianna Mendozo, Anabel Caudillo, Sabrina Tanamachi and Hadley Thorsell. The team is coached by Paul Caligiuri.

Saddleback Cowboys Baseball Wins Tourney in Cooperstown Playing in renowned Cooperstown, New York, the Saddleback Cowboys 12U Grey

Page 18

NEW-LOOK EAGLES READY FOR FIRST TEST Veteran head coach Rick Curtis will lead Capistrano Valley Christian on to the field for the first time on Aug. 26. The Eagles will travel to play Tri-City Christian, the defending Pacific League champions.

The two teams squared off against each other in last year’s season-opener and TriCity Christian won by forfeit.

The Eagles are led by returning quarterback Dawson Piper and linebacker Nolan Kahal.

SVC HITS THE ROAD TO TAKE ON NORTHWOOD Saddleback Valley Christian was scheduled to play Northwood, a larger public school in Irvine, on Aug. 25. Results were not available at press time.

The Warriors had an unbelievable 2015 season, and lost a large group of seniors that were major contributors. But the team returns senior Cade Henjum to the all-important quarterback position. With Henjum under center, the Warriors have had a smoother than anticipated offseason.

team won the Cooperstown All-Star Village tournament on Aug. 4.

The local team, which draws players San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente, bested the field of 48 teams to claim the division championship. The team beat SGV Hustle 10-9 in the final game.

The team includes: Trent Caraway, Adler Carrison, Jack Collins, Rocco DiFrancesco, Ryan Edwards, Andrew Griffin, Kevin House, Luke Lavin, Sebastian Moore, Chase Nichols, Tyler Norgaard and Leo Sanchez. www.thecapistranodispatch.com