April 28, 2017

Inside:

‘Aging Well’ A Guide to Senior Living SPECIAL SECTION

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

APRIL 28-MAY 11, 2017 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 8

Second Act for Playhouse Property City hears public input on development proposals for playhouse site E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6 The future is still uncertain for the 1-acre site that’s been home to the Camino Real Playhouse for more than 25 years. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Historical Society to Kick Off Preservation Month with Fiesta Days EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

City Council Approves Switch to Organic Pest and Weed Control EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

San Juan Hills Girls Surf Team Shines at State Championship SPORTS/PAGE 18

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EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

Johnnie Bavier, a member of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, weaves a basket during last year’s Fiesta Days celebration, hosted by the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. Photo: Allison Jarrell

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week Historical Society to Kick Off Preservation Month with Fiesta Days THE LATEST: May is known nationwide as Preservation Month—a time when communities come together to celebrate the places that are important to them. So it’s only fitting that the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society kicks things off with its fi fth annual Fiesta Days on Los Rios Street. The program, which is free to the public, is set to take place on Sunday, April 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event aims to show visitors what living in the area would’ve been like over 100 years ago. There’s a whaling exhibition presented by Bob Minty, tortilla making demonstrations by Bea Torres, mariachi performances, crafts and other familyfriendly activities.

San Juan Capistrano’s Ballet Folklorico will perform twice during the day. The first performance begins at noon at the O’Neill Museum, 31831 Los Rios Street, and the second performance will take place at 12:30 p.m. at the Montanez Adobe, 31745 Los Rios Street. The ballet folklorico group is celebrating its 25th anniversary The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

under the direction of Maricella Moreno.

This year’s program also includes an early California musical tribute and a preview of an upcoming exhibit on the 75th anniversary of Camp Pendleton at the Leck House. At 1 p.m. a docent talk at the Rios Adobe will be narrated in front of the oldest residential home in California.

In addition to the day’s scheduled events, visitors will also be able to witness historical restoration in action as volunteers continue work on the Silvas Adobe.

WHAT’S NEXT: To find out more about Sunday’s event, follow the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society on Facebook.

The historical society is located at 31831 Los Rios Street.

For more information on the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Preservation Month, visit www.savingplaces. org. —Allison Jarrell

City Council Approves Switch to Organic Pest and Weed Control THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council voted on April 18 to take a non-toxic approach to weed and pest control at city parks and open space areas by directing city staff to develop a new policy that would eliminate the use of weed killers such as Roundup.

San Juan Capistrano is the second city in Orange County to implement such a policy. The Irvine City Council voted unanimously last February to switch to organic methods.

The item was brought before the Coun-

cil by Mayor Kerry Ferguson, who began the discussion by noting that “chemical pesticides and herbicides have proven to be toxic to children, pets and the general public.”

“While their use is somewhat limited in our parks and open spaces at the present time, it would be helpful for a policy to be put into place that gives clear guidelines to present and future contractors to guide them in their practice on our city properties,” Ferguson said.

Last year, the city used a total of four gallons of the Monsanto herbicide Roundup on the city’s landscaped areas, according to Steve May, public works and utilities director. May said the weed killer has been used on the city’s street medians and in planter areas of some parks on a “very limited basis.” He added that Roundup is not used in the city’s open space areas, where there may be equestrians riding or animals that will eat the vegetation.

“I want to make it clear that we’re not out there spraying pesticides in large quantities in school yards and playground areas, or anywhere where children would be playing,” May said.

Roundup made national news recently because on March 28, California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment announced that glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, would be listed as a known carcinogen.

Bruce Blumberg, a professor of developmental and cell biology at the University of California, Irvine, addressed the Council during the April 18 meeting and said there is “plenty of data” that shows how harmful such chemicals can be. He pointed to the possibility that “chemicals that disrupt the function of the endocrine

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system have a role to play” in the rise of conditions and diseases such as leukemia, brain cancer and autism.

Dean Baker, professor of medicine at UC Irvine, said there’s a “large body of scientific evidence” that pesticide exposure in adults is associated with caner, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s and other chronic diseases. Baker quoted a committee of the American Academy of Pediatrics, saying that “prenatal and early childhood exposure to pesticides is associated with pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function and behavioral problems.”

“There’s a strong consensus that pesticides are associated with a broad range of adverse health outcomes, particularly in children,” Baker said.

About a dozen residents from across Orange County spoke in favor of the new policy, including several representing Non Toxic Irvine, a grassroots group that successfully petitioned the city of Irvine to switch to organic weed and pest control methods last year. The group has chapters across the county, including Non Toxic San Juan Capistrano.

Ayn Craciun, a board member of Non Toxic Irvine, informed the Council that since Irvine went chemical-free in 2016, “the city has managed its more than 570 acres of parks, 800 acres of right of way, 70,000 trees and nearly 1.5 million square feet of facilities without conventional pesticides.

“So it can be done,” Craciun said. She added that switching to organic methods supports soil health and makes soil more absorbent, which can reduce watering costs.

The Council voted 4-0-1 to direct staff to create the new policy, with Councilman Derek Reeve abstaining.

WHAT’S NEXT: The new weed abatement and pest control policy will include the following: • No treatment at all unless needed • If treatment is required, use effective organic pesticides and/or herbicides on all city properties whenever practical, using a list of such materials from the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) • Limit exposure to any pesticides or herbicides where children, pets and the general public congregate • Use “Environmental Protection Agency Level” pesticides and herbicides in a targeted manner, and only if deemed necessary to protect public health and economic impact by a licensed pest/ weed control adviser and city staff May told the Council that staff didn’t see the new policy being “overly burden(Cont. on page 4) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 4) some” on the city’s operations. The plan is to report back in a year on the effectiveness of the organic weed and pest control.

—AJ

Trader Joe’s Gets OK from City Council for Alcohol Sales THE LATEST:On April 18, the City Council voted unanimously to issue a letter public convenience or necessity for alcohol sales at the incoming Trader Joe’s. The letter was the final city approval needed in order to have off-site alcohol sales at the store.

Trader Joe’s is set to occupy the former Big Lots space in the Mission Village Center, located at 32151 Camino Capistrano.

Proposed hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily with a staff of 15 to 35 people depending on the season.

The store has already received administrative approval from the city for minor exterior enhancements such as replacing swing doors with automatic sliding doors and other ADA improvements. On March 28, members of the city’s Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve a conditional use permit for the store’s alcohol sales.

WHAT’S NEXT: Peter Impala, of Art Rodriguez & Associates, spoke on behalf of Trader Joe’s at last month’s Planning Commission meeting. Impala said Trader

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.

Friday, April 21 PATROL CHECK Verdugo Street/Camino Capistrano (10:33 a.m.)A subject who was sleeping at the bottom of the parking structure was warned for trespassing and agreed to leave the area.

RECKLESS DRIVING Alipaz Street/Del Obispo Street (8:59 a.m.)A patrol check was requested for a 62-year-old driver who is blind in one eye and partially blind in the other and suffers from dementia. The man wasn’t supposed to be driving and was possibly on his way to Albertsons or Ralphs.

The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

Additionally, San Juan Capistrano was ranked sixth among cities in Orange County for hospitalizations related to drug and alcohol abuse, with 30.3 per 10,000 residents. Dana Point’s rate of hospitalizations was ranked first in the county, with 44.6 hospitalizations per 10,000 people.

San Clemente ranked fourth with a threeyear average of 33.1 people per 10,000 being hospitalized.

Of the coroner-investigated deaths, 48.1 percent of all of Orange County’s accidental deaths from 2013-2015 were caused by prescription medication, and 24.5 were caused by illicit drugs.

Deputies, crime scene investigators and other OCSD and medical personnel in Orange County now carry Naloxone, a nasal spray that may save people who are experiencing an opioid overdose from drugs such as oxycodone or heroin. That program started in fall of 2015.

In 2016, the federal government passed the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, which expanded access to Naloxone, increased access to medicationassisted treatment and prescription drug monitoring programs, created an interagency task force, and increased education programs on prescription and illicit drugs, specifically heroin. The Food and Drug Administration now has to refer applications for new opioid drugs to an advisory committee to seek recommendations. It also requires the FDA’s pediatric advisory committee to create the framework of labeling certain medication.

WHAT’S NEXT: To view the full report, click on the link to it in this article, which will be posted at www.thecapistranodispatch.com. —Eric Heinz

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Ortega Highway, 27100 Block (12:58 a.m.)Police contacted a woman who was driving with expired registration. The woman gave a fake name. Police searched the vehicle and found about 20 grams of heroin, 17 grams of meth, 12 suboxone strips, miscellaneous paraphernalia, a scale and a stun gun. The woman was arrested for a warrant and possession of illegal substances.

TRESPASSING Camino Capistrano, 33700 Block (3:46 p.m.)A woman who had previously stayed at the Residence Inn was taking photos of staff and refusing to leave.

a silver pickup truck at the end of the culde-sac. The caller said the man had slept there the last three nights.

BIKE STOP Ortega Highway/Rancho Viejo Road (12:17 a.m.)Police stopped a known probationer for bicycling without a light, and the man threw his backpack into the bushes. Police searched the backpack and found methamphetamine and hydrocodone. The man was cited for possession of illegal substances.

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE Canyon Crest Road, 26900 Block (1:58 p.m.)A caller told police that a sedan was parked partially in front of his driveway. The man said he thought the car was abandoned because it doesn’t “fit” the neighborhood. The caller wasn’t sure how long the car had been there. Police found that the vehicle was not blocking the driveway. The car was marked and warned for 72 hours.

Joe’s is “very excited about this location” and they anticipate opening the store in September. —AJ

Report: San Juan Capistrano Ranked High on Deaths Caused by Drugs, Alcohol from 2013 to 2015 THE LATEST: The Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHA) released a grim report on Tuesday, April 25, that stated the county saw an increase in drug- and alcohol-related deaths from 2013 to 2015.

According to the report, San Juan Capistrano had 34 drug- and alcohol-related deaths between 2013 and 2015, with most of them occurring in the latest recorded year. The city ranked fifth-highest among all municipalities in Orange County in the three-year average per population. The county’s trend has also been rising since 2013. “…Cities with relatively higher overdose deaths tended to include coastal cities followed by South County locales,” the report stated. “More specifically, Laguna Woods had the highest overdose death rate at 50.8 per 100,000, followed by Dana Point (40.1), Seal Beach (33.8), Laguna Beach (31.4), and San Juan Capistrano (31.2).”

Nine of San Juan Capistrano’s deaths in that time frame were directly related to prescription drugs, which were verified by the Orange County Coroner’s Office.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Paseo Espada/Rancho Viejo Road (2:12 p.m.)A Coca-Cola truck was blocking the street. Police contacted the truck driver who said he was unloading merchandise for Sam’s Liquor. The driver agreed to park in a safer location.

Thursday, April 20 PATROL CHECK Verdugo Street/Camino Capistrano (6:03 p.m.)A subject was warned for possession of marijuana.

TRAFFIC STOP Doheny Park Road/Camino Capistrano (4:11 p.m.)A driver and passenger were cited for having an open alcohol container in plain sight and for the passenger drinking from the container.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Ortega Highway/Interstate 5 (9:36 a.m.)

A man was seen at the Shell gas station trying to buy items with a “giant” stack of debit cards.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Pila Degracia, 32500 Block (8:05 a.m.)A patrol check was requested for a man sleeping in

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Limited Metrolink Service in San Juan, San Clemente This Weekend THE LATEST: This Saturday and Sunday, April 29-30, Metrolink’s Orange County and Inland Empire Orange County lines will have limited service due to maintenance projects, according to Metrolink officials.

Metrolink trains will only operate north of the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo station. Buses will provide service to and from the San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, San Clemente Pier and Oceanside stations, connecting passengers to regularly scheduled trains at Laguna Niguel/ Mission Viejo Station.

Trains may be delayed up to 45 minutes. Regular train service will resume by Monday, May 1.

The North County Transit District and San Diego Association of Governments are doing a number of rail projects south of Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station to improve Amtrak, Coaster and Metrolink services, according to a Metrolink press releas3.

WHAT’S NEXT: For more information, visit www.metrolinktrains.com. —Staff

Wednesday, April 19 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY El Camino Real, 31600 Block (9:05 p.m.)A patrol check was requested at Calvary Chapel for juveniles “beating on the drums really loud.”

DISTURBANCE Rancho Viejo Road, 31700 Block (8:06 p.m.)A woman was being aggressive with customers at Bad to the Bone. She refused to leave.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Chueca, 30700 Block (6:27 p.m.)A patrol check was requested for a man sitting in the driver seat of a Toyota Camry with the door partially open. The man was seen repeatedly pulling up his shirt and putting his hands down the front of his pants.

When police arrived, the vehicle was unoccupied.

DISTURBANCE Avenida La Pata/Stallion Ridge (5:14 p.m.)A caller reported a white pickup truck driving around a dirt lot and doing donuts with four to six juveniles in the bed of the truck. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Second Act for Playhouse Property City hears public input on development proposals for playhouse site

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

fter four months of reviewing proposals, San Juan Capistrano City Council members are nearing a decision on what type of development will be built on the downtown playhouse property.

Since January, the Council has been reviewing 11 development proposals for the property that has been home to the Camino Real Playhouse for more than 25 years. The site in question consists of two adjacent parcels at 31776 El Camino Real and 26874 Ortega Highway.

When the state “dissolved” redevelopment agencies back in 2012, the city of San Juan Capistrano, like other agencies, was required to develop a plan to sell any agency-owned property. For San Juan, this meant selling the two downtown parcels and the Lower Rosan Ranch property off of Stonehill Drive.

In order to get community input on the top four proposals for the playhouse property, the Council held a workshop on April 26 at City Hall.

During the workshop, members of the public listened to presentations on each of the top four proposals being considered. Those in attendance were then able to address the Council with any questions, concerns and opinions.

Below are the four proposals currently under consideration (as described by the potential buyers): Friess Property Investments, Inc.: Redevelop the existing 11,000-squarefoot structure into a special events and performing arts venue and increase the parking count to 88 stalls. The development would result in an auditorium use with a professional stage and support facilities that can be used for community performing arts, special events and musical programs. A valet configuration during special events would expand the 88-car capacity to upwards of 130 parking spaces. The redevelopment would result in an auditorium use with a professional stage and support facilities that can be used for community performing arts, special events and musical programs.

Frontier Real Estate Investments, LLC: The “Capistrano Center for the Arts” would include: • A new performing arts center with an auditorium seating approximately 250 people along with a secondary black The Capistrano Dispatch April 28–May 11, 2017

box theater with 60 to 100 seats. The theater would include a scene shop, dressing rooms, classrooms, storage, lobby area, box office, refreshment area, restrooms and a dedicated loading area.

• First class, full-service street-front restaurants and retail shops • An open-air plaza adjoining the theater with the restaurants and shops • A boutique second-story creative office space • Two levels of subterranean parking, comprised of approximately 250 parking stalls O’Shea Properties, Inc.: The development proposal consists of a two-story, approximately 19,500-squarefoot professional office building with 78 surface parking spaces. The building would not exceed 35 feet in height and would respect the prescribed setbacks from the Blas Aguilar Adobe. The building would be one-story on the ends with a two-story portion in the middle.

Rivendell Land Company, Inc.: The proposal entails rehabilitating the existing 11,000-square-foot building and expanding the building to 14,000 square feet to enhance the views from Ortega Highway and El Camino Real.

The building would include an approximately 1,500-square-foot farm-to-table café on the corner with outdoor seating.

The remaining 12,500 square feet would be used as a performing arts center.

The parking lot would be restriped to increase the parking count to 80 stalls, with approximately 112 stalls available in valet configuration.

The proposal also includes: • Creating a design concept for a “community gateway project” that leads into the historic downtown, and working with Caltrans and the city to include right of way parcels for the gateway project • Conducting a parking demand assessment and creating parking arrangements with downtown businesses and the Mission • Developing a hospitality and performing arts relationship with the downtown hotels Staff noted that the project description Rivendell Land Company submitted for the workshop differs from the initial proposal the city received on Nov. 16. Owned

The future is still uncertain for the 1-acre site that’s been home to the Camino Real Playhouse for more than 25 years. Photo: Allison Jarrell

by local developer Bill Griffith, the company initially pitched a “14,000-squarefoot commercial building including an approximately 1,500-square-foot “farm-totable” cafe to support ancillary hotel uses at the Plaza Banderas Hotel, and preservation of the existing surface parking lot.”

Last fall, Griffith dropped his Inn at the Mission hotel project that was planned for the property that sits across the street from both the Mission and the Camino Real Playhouse, so plans for that site have reverted back to the previously-approved Plaza Banderas Hotel project.

While Griffith has not officially announced whether he will proceed with building the Plaza Banderas Hotel, he did receive a one-year extension for the hotel’s development agreement, which was set to expire on Aug. 3. On April 25, the city’s Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the extension, which is the second of three one-year extensions that are allowed per the agreement.

During Tuesday’s Planning Commission meeting, city staff reported that demolition work, rough grading and the installation of a sound wall have been completed at the site, and that “the project is moving forward.” Staff said Griffith is continuing to work on the construction plans for the Plaza Banderas Hotel and needs additional time to complete those plans. Once submitted, the plans would be subject to review by the city’s Design Review Committee.

Many members of the community,

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including Mayor Kerry Ferguson and volunteers at the Camino Real Playhouse, have expressed their desire to see a performing arts center included on the playhouse site.

The vast majority of the dozens of speakers during Wednesday’s public comment were in favor of Frontier’s proposal, voicing excitement over the detailed plans for a performing arts center.

Frontier managing partner Dan Almquist confirmed that the project would require a general plan amendment, and $10-12 million would need to be raised for the construction of the arts center. Almquist said many people have already expressed interest in funding such a project.

In an email sent to supporters on April 22, Camino Real Playhouse president Tom Scott said “the plan from Frontier has full support from the playhouse board of directors and management team.”

The Council voted unanimously to bring the topic back for discussion during its May 2 closed session meeting. Council members may or may not choose a proposal at that time.

To view the full agenda from Wednesday’s workshop, including summaries and presentations of each proposal, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

For more on this story, including additional background and comments from the developers, the Council and the public, visit www.thecapistranodispatch. com. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Toll Road Update ‘Beltway’ option included in recent transportation studies

BY ERIC HEINZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

D

ozens of residents from San Clemente and Rancho Santa Margarita attended the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) board of directors meeting on Thursday, April 13, in Irvine to oppose the 241 connection toll road proposals put forth by the entity.

Following the settlement of a nearly decade-old lawsuit between the TCA and several environmental organizations, the agencies’ staff members introduced revised alternatives and new options in order to continue the pursuit of a toll road through the southern-most areas of Orange County. The lawsuit settlement prohibits any TCA toll road from being constructed in the San Mateo Watershed, Trestles and other environmentally sensitive areas.

Of the 17 proposals discussed at the Thursday meeting, a few of them showed

Pete Van Nuys of San Clemente, who has been a proponent of the Beltway proposal for years, speaks during the public comment portion of the Transportation Corridor Agencies board meeting on Thursday, April 13, in Irvine. Photo: Eric Heinz

routes that could potentially go right through San Clemente, though the details of what the routes would look like specifically have not yet been determined.

The TCA is currently working toward establishing its next phases of environmental review for its proposals. Another update regarding the proposals for the 241 extension is expected to take place later this summer, officials said after the meeting.

San Clemente residents who attended were able to convince the TCA to consider the “Beltway” option, something that supporters said was discussed at length about 10 years ago. Proponents have argued for some time that a connection of the

This map shows 17 toll road proposals under consideration. The recently added “beltway” option makes a total of 18 proposals. Image: Courtesy of the Transportation Corridor Agencies

241 and 73 toll roads would benefit traffic flow by taking stress off I-5, but it doesn’t necessarily address the TCA’s goal of improving north-to-south traffic.

The total number of proposals is now

18, including the Beltway.

People who spoke in favor of the toll road said there may be no other option than the toll road to alleviate traffic problems.

Beginning in 2015, the TCA initiated a community survey to understand the traffic congestion concerns of residents of South Orange County and to see what routes would be favorable. Then in 2016, the TCA hosted a series of community meetings in Laguna Niguel and San Clemente to further the study, which can be found at the link in this story on www. sanclementetimes.com.

Mayor Kathy Ward deployed another tactic during the meeting, stating that previous arrangements forbid the construction and improvements of the Oso Parkway bridge, a $26.2 million project located just north of Tesoro High School in Rancho Santa Margarita, where the 241 ends. The strategy is if the terminus of the 241 cannot be improved, the toll road wouldn’t be able to expand.

Mike Kraman, CEO of the TCA, said that was not correct and that the board could approve the project, which it did later in the meeting, with Ward as the only vote in opposition.

At the end of the meeting, San Juan City Councilman Brian Maryott and Lisa Bartlett, 5th district Orange County Supervisor, said they want to study the routes in full before making a final decision. CD

EYE ON SJC Citizens’ Climate Lobby is a grassroots advocacy organization with 393 chapters across the U.S. and Canada dedicated to generating political will for effective national policies to address climate change.

The group is working to build support for Carbon Fee and Dividend legislation. In 2016, CCL volunteers held 1,390 meetings with congressional offices, and generated 2,901 letters to the editor, op-eds, editorials and articles.

St. Andrews by the Sea United Methodist Church is located at 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente. Those interested in attending can acquire free tickets for the workshop online at occlimateworkshop.eventbrite.com.

For more information, contact Larry Kramer at larrykramerccl@gmail.com, Paul Barnes p-barnes@sbcgolbal.net, or Chris Marker at chris_marker@hotmail.com.

Local Nonprofit Raises $160K to Build 30 Wells in Uganda

Each year, CREER Comunidad y Familia celebrates the conclusion of its summer youth program with student performances. The nonprofit is hosting a fundraiser on May 18 to help fund such programs. Photo: Allison Jarrell

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

CREER Fundraiser Set for May 18 On Thursday, May 18, local nonprofit CREER Comunidad y Familia will host a fundraiser benefiting its summer and afterschool programs, which serve hundreds of area youth annually.

The event runs from 6-10 p.m. at the San Juan Hills Golf Club in San Juan Capistrano and includes live music performed by jazz guitarist and vocalist Dean Grech and jazz saxophonist Greg Vail.

The concert will provide funds for the children attending CREER’s summer school and afterschool programs, allowing them to receive much-needed assistance in reading, writing, math, science, music, dance and folk culture. All proceeds and donations go directly to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Tickets are $30 for the show, $60 for the show and lasagna dinner, or $100 for the show, lasagna dinner, wine and cheese and two CDs from Grech and Vail. Tickets can be purchased online at www.eventbrite. com by searching for “CREER Comunidad y Familia.”

The 19 Sports Bar & Grill at San Juan Hills Golf Club is located at 32120 San Juan Creek Road.

Music Video to be Filmed Downtown, Producer Looking for Extras On Sunday, April 30, from 7-11 a.m., Beth Carney, owner of Conservatory at Curiosity, is producing a music video to be filmed by Bergstrom Media that celebrates San Juan Capistrano’s historic theater, dining and mercantile district.

The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

The video will utilize a group of young dancers, but Carney said they also need residents who would like to be part of the video’s crowd shots. Anyone who would like to be included in the project is welcome to attend the filming, which kicks off at 7 a.m. at the train station.

Democratic Women of South OC Meeting on May 1 On May 1, the Democratic Women of South Orange County will hold its general meeting from 6:45-8:30 p.m. at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, located at 25295 Camino Del Avion. The meeting will include two presentations: “The Fate of the EPA,” presented by Surfrider, and “San Onofre’s Nuclear Waste,” presented by Ray Lutz, with Citizens’ Oversight.

To purchase tickets, visit www.dwsoc. org. For more information, email contact@ dwsoc.org.

Citizens’ Climate Lobby to Launch South OC Chapter with Workshop Citizens’ Climate Lobby is inviting South Orange County citizens concerned about climate change to a workshop on Saturday, May 13, from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Andrews by the Sea United Methodist Church in San Clemente. The workshop will launch a new local chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL).

During the workshop, participants will learn how to exercise their political power and build political will for climate solutions. The workshop is free and open to the public, and will be led by Jim Waterhouse with Citizens’ Climate Lobby. Once the new chapter is launched, it will meet monthly, and volunteers will work with local action teams and individually.

An estimated 700 attendees supported Wells of Life’s second annual Run4Water fundraiser on Sunday, April 23 at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. Organizers estimate that $160,000 was raised to build sustainable water wells for villagers in Uganda, Africa.

A group of young students from Mission Basilica School and their mothers, known as the Precious Flowers, raised $9,003 for the event, making their team the third highest fundraising group.

Wells of Life founder and executive director Nick Jordan, of San Juan Capistrano, said proceeds from Run4Water will fund 30 new wells that will benefit thousands of families in Uganda’s poorest villages.

“Today we saw a wave of generosity among hundreds of people that made up the Wells of Life community so that no one will lack clean water,” Jordan said.

The fundraising goal for each team made up of families, schools, churches and businesses was $6000, which funds one water well and provides clean water to 1000 villagers for an estimated 25 years.

Mission Women’s Guild to Host Fundraiser May 7 The Mission San Juan Capistrano Women’s Guild is hosting a fundraiser at We Olive & Wine Bar on May 7 from 5:30-8 p.m.

Admission is $35 and includes wine tasting, olive oil and balsamic tasting, and artisan hors d’oeuvres. All proceeds go to the Mission.

We Olive & Wine Bar is located at 31760 Camino Capistrano in San Juan. For more information or to purchase a ticket, call Dottie at 909.273.0357.

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

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Community Meetings SATURDAY, APRIL 29

E-Waste and Document Shredding Event

8-11 a.m. The city is hosting a free e-waste and shredding event at the City Hall parking lot, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. For more information, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 2

City Council Meeting

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

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

Downtown Farmers Market

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

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

San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club

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

FRIDAY, MAY 5

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.

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Planning Commission Meeting

6:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Log on to www. sanjuancapistrano.org to see the body’s agenda.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting

7 p.m. The Capistrano Unified School District governing body meets at district offices, 33122 Valle Road. To see the board’s agenda, visit www.capousd.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Design Review Committee Meeting

4:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Design Review Committee meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Log on to www. sanjuancapistrano.org to see the agenda.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor

quences of this disregard for our immigration laws? Why aren’t tear-soaked articles being writing about them? It is unpatriotic to hire an illegal worker when so many American citizens in California are jobless.

RESPONSE TO ‘A COMMUNITY ON EDGE’

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES WILL SOLVE MANY TRANSPORTATION PROBLEMS

—Jacqueline Cooper, San Clemente As a born and raised Californian, the article “A Community on the Edge” in the April 14-27 edition of The Capistrano Dispatch was disheartening to say the least. I want to see stories like this about our local legal citizens who have been affected by the mass migration of illegal immigrants to our state. What about the U.S. citizens in California who have lost their jobs because politicians decided not to enforce our immigration laws? Lawabiding painters, carpenters and drywall contractors have been ruined by the influx of illegal workers who have taken over the entire construction industry in our state. How about a tear-jerk article about legal citizen families who have lost their livelihood because greedy businesses hire illegal workers to make a bigger profit?

Our tax dollars are subsidizing businesses through the benefit programs taxpaying Californians are forced to give to illegal immigrants. What about the U.S. citizens who have had to bare the terrible conse-

—Steve Pezman, San Clemente Ms. Cyndy Stauffer’s letter in the April 14-27 edition of The Capistrano Dispatch describes her wanting the reconsideration of the defeated 241 Toll Road extension route through San Mateo Valley to Interstate 5 south of San Clemente. The basis for her opinion is her understanding that the defeat was due to “misleading statements concerning the true factual impact of a properly constructed roadway south around San Clemente meeting up to the I-5.” Among those who supported the decision against that route were the Regional Water Quality Board, The Coastal Commission, The Sierra Club, The Audubon Society, Native Americans, Surfrider Foundation, California State Parks and the U.S. Department of Commerce, none of whom are prone to base decisions on “misleading” statements. The facts weren’t misleading. The correct decision was made after years of laborious examination of both sides of the issue.

Worth keeping in mind: Over the coming decades it is an accepted fact that transportation technology will soon allow existing routes to operate more efficiently and safely. Rapid advances in that capability are being announced each year, i.e. driverless cars that are safer in greater traffic density due to more precise automatic controls. Let’s be patient and wait for these advances to solve many of the problems we face, rather than choosing the short-term solution of paving what invaluable open space is left.

DOES DARRELL ISSA REPRESENT YOUR VIEWS ON CLIMATE CHANGE? —Sarah Mosko, Santa Ana You might not know it, given who was recently elected president, but Americans everywhere want their government to tackle climate change. An impressive national survey of over 18,000 adults by The Yale Project on Climate Change Communication found that in all 50 states a solid majority, 60 to 78 percent, of the public both believe global warming is happening and 66 to 81 percent favored regulating carbon dioxide (CO2) as a pollutant.

A breakdown by individual districts revealed a similar pattern of opinions, even in historically conservative areas like Orange County. For example, here in (Cont. on page 10)

Searching for Files in the Cerebral Mainframe

F

The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Group Managing Editor > Matt Cortina

GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths by Jim Kempton

requently in my later life, there is a moment during a group discussion when one of the conversationalists will be unable to recall someone or something. Where was that? What the heck was his name? After a short but fruitless effort, the conversation continues. But often in the next few minutes someone will shout out “Robert from Newport! His name was Robert Dooly!” Why wasn’t that name recalled by our brain’s memory immediately? Why did it take five whole minutes for the data to appear? What was our brain doing anyway?

The answer I surmise is: It was searching for files.

Let’s face it, computers were made in our image, or at least in the image of our brains and nervous systems. We think that because computers process massive bits of data that they are much better than us at doing so. But in reality, our minds process millions of bits of data all the time as well, and spend a lot less time sleeping. The vital daily necessities are center screen on the desktop. But for most data we take in, our brains hit the delete button or at least file the info somewhere deep.

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

Often we send a command and the content is not in the place we think. Hence, the brain goes searching for files.

As we get older, why can’t we remember things as well? Well, again, according to my totally unsubstantiated opinion, we just have too much content to properly store. When we were 6 years old, we could keep our entire world on the desktop.

And those files remain on the desktop eternally. Meanwhile, the 2017 file already has 47 sub-files and thousands of massive documents. With no room left, it isn’t even on the desktop.

Case in point: Isn’t it interesting how many of us can blurt the name of our firstgrade teacher but draw a blank about the last three people we were introduced to this morning? Why can we summon up the family phone number from 30 years ago but have no idea what password accesses our current bank account? I mean, I know my short-term memory is bad, but then so is my short-term memory, right?

Maybe it’s the lack of RAM, an inability to conflate so many ideas at once, resulting in a spiraling rainbow wheel in my mind. Some memories should be like

certain acquaintances on Facebook; they just need to be un-friended.

On the bright side, a bad memory means being able to watch Netflix films a second time and still be in suspense.

WAVELENGTHS Computers of course

By Jim Kempton are as old as Adam and Eve. They had an Apple but very limited memory—just one byte and then the whole network crashed. We’ve been rebooting ever since. And searching, ever searching, for files.

Jim Kempton owned one of the first little Macintosh boxes with a local dial-up connection and remembers when a center-spread of Surfer Magazine took two minutes to load.

His searching-for-files-wheel seems to revolve unexplainably slower each year. 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

Page 9

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick OPERATIONS

City Editor, DP Times > Kristina Pritchett

Finance Director > Mike Reed

City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz

Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

Special Projects Editor > Andrea Papagianis ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Debra Holm Tim Trent Alex Paris

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 15, Issue 8. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly

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

Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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SJC LIVING (Cont. from page 9) California’s 49th Congressional District, represented by Darrell Issa, 72 percent of people surveyed said they believe climate change is happening and 74 percent want CO2 regulated as a pollutant. Given that we live in a representative democracy, one should expect Issa’s actions to reflect the opinions of his constituents. It’s not clear that he has in the past, but there are signs he is coming around.

He’s long been an outspoken skeptic of governmental initiatives to slow global warming and even voted in the last Con-

gressional year in favor of repealing rules establishing limits on CO2 emissions from power plants.

However, he recently took the bold step of joining the Climate Solutions Caucus.

He should be applauded for doing the right thing.

GUEST OPINION: Bartlett Bulletin by OC Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

throughout our community. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 91 Americans die every day from opioid overdose. In Orange County, drug and alcohol overdoses result THE BARTLETT in over 5,000 hospitalBULLETIN izations and nearly 600

By Lisa Bartlett deaths among residents each year. Cities with the highest rates of drug and alcohol related hospitalizations are generally in the southern and coastal cities of the County.

Drug addiction is something that can affect any family. If you or someone you know needs assistance, call 855.OC.LINKS. For information about Prescription Drug Take Back Day, call 714.647.4133.

South County: Under the Flight Path: On Monday, May 15, from 6-8 p.m., I will host a community forum titled “South Orange County: Under the Flight Path” at Laguna Niguel City Hall, located at 30111 Crown Valley Parkway.

This forum will address concerns from South County residents about commercial aircraft flight paths and noise impacting our communities. John Wayne Airport officials will provide information about the Federal Aviation Administration’s Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) and newly implemented Southern California Metroplex Project.

For more information about the FAA’s NextGen, visit www.faa.gov/nextgen.

Like you, I cherish living in South Orange County. It is an honor to serve as your Orange County Supervisor, and I am committed to enhancing our quality of life and addressing community concerns.

For more information about these and other events in my district, visit www.

SupBartlett.ocgov.com, or call my office at 714.834.3550 if I may be of assistance.

Lisa Bartlett is the District 5 supervisor on the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

She was elected to office in 2014. CD

Enhancing Our Quality of Life

S

outh Orange County is a fulfilling place to live, work and play. As such, we place a high priority on maintaining an unmatched quality of life that includes peaceful, safe and thriving communities.

To that end, below are events I am sponsoring that address important community needs and concerns. These events are free and open to the public, including a South County senior summit, prescription drug drop-off day and a forum focused on commercial aircraft flight paths impacting our communities.

10th Annual South County Senior Summit: This year, I am pleased to host the 10th annual South County Senior Summit on Friday, May 12, starting at 8 a.m., at the Laguna Woods Village Performing Arts Center. The theme is “Financial Planning for Your Golden Years.” A complimentary breakfast and lunch will be served to attendees, who will also enjoy a lineup of expert speakers. In addition, the event will include free one-on-one financial advice from certified financial planners.

RSVP is required by May 5. Please call 800.510.2020 or visit www.OCSeniorSummit.com for more information.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day: To raise public awareness and help the community properly dispose of old medications, the county is participating in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. On Saturday, April 29, there will be several drop-off locations throughout South County, where anyone can dispose of unwanted, unused and expired prescription medication. The program is free and anonymous.

National Drug Take Back Day also raises awareness for the opioid epidemic we are experiencing nationwide and The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

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.

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

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

Page 10

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

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

What’s going on in and around town

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2 p.m.-1:30 a.m. A day of live music kicks off with West Coast Strayz at 2 p.m. followed by the Road Kill Kings at 8:30 p.m. Food from Lisa’s Kitchen will be available throughout the afternoon. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 28 LIVE THEATER: ‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’ 7-9 p.m. The JSerra Theatre Company presents Beauty and the Beast, with three performances on Friday and Saturday at San Juan Hills High School. View show times and purchase tickets online. 29211 Stallion Ridge, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.9307. www.jserra.org.

LIVE THEATER: ‘ALMOST, MAINE’ 8 p.m. The Cabrillo Playhouse presents Almost, Maine. In the play, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in the strangest ways on one cold Friday night. Show runs through May 14.

Tickets are $15-$20. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465.

LIVE MUSIC AT OVERVUE 8-11 p.m. A rotating lineup of musicians performs at OverVue Lounge at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott every Friday and Saturday night. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point.

949.661.5000. www.lagunacliffs.com.

Saturday | 29 WOODIE CLUB AND CAR SHOW 6 a.m.- 3 p.m. Start your springtime Southern California-style by visiting the annual Woodie Club and Car Show at Doheny State Beach. Woodies start lining up in the south day-use area at dawn and begin departing in the mid-afternoon. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. www.danapoint.org.

OLD HOLLYWOOD CHARITY GALA 5:30-10:30 p.m. Put on your classic, vintage Hollywood attire and enjoy a night of giving and fun with the San Clemente Junior Women’s Club, which includes dinner, entertainment, fantastic prizes, auctions and classic Hollywood big band music.

The event is open to the public until sold out. Tickets are $85. 200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. www.scjwc.org.

EDITOR’S PICK Photos: Allison Jarrell

SUNDAY, APRIL 30: FIESTA DAYS 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Historical Society will hold its fi fth annual Fiesta Days, featuring crafts, arts, exhibits, food tasting and much more. This year will see the return of many favorites including tortilla making, piñatas, shell bracelets, whaling memorabilia, an 1890 chore table and 19th-century games. 31831 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.8444. www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

GARDENING CLASS: BENEFICIAL BUGS 8 a.m. Stop by Armstrong Garden Center for a class on how to introduce bugs to your garden that will help it grow. No registration required. 32382 Del Obispo St., San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.6666. www.armstronggarden.com.

REPLACE YOUR LAWN WORKSHOP 9:30-10:30 a.m. Designer Susan Trindle leads a workshop on the five senses of gardening when working with native plants. Learn how to create a native garden that will engage your five senses.

Tree of Life Nursery. 33201 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

BACKYARD CHICKENS WORKSHOP 10 a.m. Getting started raising backyard chickens is easier than you think. And the benefits of doing so include the regular production of farm-fresh eggs and fertilizer for your garden. This workshop will teach you the basics of coop design, how to buy chickens, permits you’ll need, how to raise chickens and more. Admission is $20 for members, $30 for non-members.

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

A net will drop down 600 feet to capture these creatures. Cost is $24-$45. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org

Sunday | 30 DANA POINT GRAND PRIX OF CYCLING 7 a.m.-4 p.m. The exciting Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling returns on Sunday.

A variety of road bicycle races begins at 7 a.m. at the start/finish line, located at the corner of Del Prado and Violet Lantern. There is also a simultaneous bike expo, featuring demonstrations, exhibitions, bike tune-ups, electric bike demos, giveaways and much more. Visit www.danapointgrandprix.com for more information about the expo, race route and more.

(Cont. on page 12)

At the Movies: Much to See in ‘The Lost City of Z’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

W

riter-director James Gray’s new movie, The Lost City of Z, comes four months after Martin Scorsese’s Silence, which featured similar themes of exploration and madness in the middle of the jungle.

The latter is about two priests searching for their mentor on a Japanese island; the former is about real-life British explorer Percy Fawcett, who was convinced he could find proof of a lost Amazonian

The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

city. Though Gray’s feature doesn’t have a religious aspect, like Scorsese’s, it is just as thought-provoking.

From 1905-1925, highly regarded military man and family man Fawcett (Charlie Hunnam) is offered the chance to search throughout a recently discovered uncharted territory near Brazil to find if there is a definitive population from the past. Along with him is his newly assigned partner, Henry Costin (Robert Pattinson). While at home, he struggles to maintain an active long-distance relationship with his family, including

wife, Nina (Sienna Miller), and eldest son, Jack (Tom Holland).

Lost City of Z is a fascinating study on obsession and passion of one man’s dedication that most who read the report believed was nonsense. The writing is period appropriate in making Fawcett both a man of his time and ahead of it politically. The cinematography of the tribes and wildlife is beautiful and gives off a stark, mysterious atmosphere.

Gray delivers his most impressive filmmaking since Two Lovers (2008), and Hunnam achieves possibly his best performance to

Page 11

Photo: Courtesy of Bleeker Street/Amazon Studios

date. Even Miller is given some decent character development as the wife at home, when she could’ve been easily wasted. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

WELCOME TO

aging well | FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART ur little corner of the world is the perfect place to age well.

There are opportunities to get and stay active at almost every turn in Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. In our temperate climate, the outdoors is always a suitable playground, but our various institutions also host numerous educational, recreational and social activities for seniors.

It’s a good thing, too—about half of all residents in the tri-cities are over the age of 45. The community seeking to age well is robust. While some choose to engage the social offerings from our city’s senior centers, others take to the open waves on a stand-up paddleboard. While some choose one of several 55+ communities to better their lives, other seniors find members of their community about town.

Our goal in Aging Well is to connect those looking to live a fruitful life with the people, programs and organizations hoping to help them do that. Everything in here is meant to inspire and enrich the lives of those willing to take it by storm.

You’ll get inspired by the snapshots of senior life in South Orange County, and hear firsthand about how senior folks are

maximizing the resources of this area. Read about a local pickleball league that has exploded in recent years, allowing seniors to stay active and social, in a competitive setting, without putting too much stress on the body.

For those looking to take up a new hobby, there’s a feature about how to use community resources to pick up art, education, recreation and volunteering. And for the animal-inclined, there’s a story about the benefits of companionship pets.

In our feature story on 55+ communities, you’ll learn about what really goes down at some of South Orange County’s finest senior living neighborhoods, and how your life can be enriched by living in a place with people your own age and amenities suited for aging well.

Lastly, you’ll find numerous stories about the practicalities of aging, and how to handle them in a stress-free manner. From medical concerns to staying in touch with technology, the stories in this issue will help seniors and others approaching that age begin the process of crossing all T’s and dotting all I’s.

There’s a lot to do in the area for seniors, and many of those things are spotlighted in this issue. So get reading, and start living.

Photo: Courtesy

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

STAY YOUNG by

STAYING ACTIVE

Four quick activities to get you moving, thinking and creating

T

BY MATT CORTINA

hey say nothing good comes of idle hands. But what they don’t say—those glass-halfempty idiom makers—is that good things are made by busy hands. With an active mindset and a willing attitude, your years after 50 can be the most productive of your life.

Luckily, there are numerous avenues to explore an active lifestyle in South Orange County. We’re privy to a natural playground in the Harbor, on the ocean and in our rolling hills. But we also have world-class senior exercise, art, education and volunteering opportunities right in our neighborhoods. Through programs and services offered by the cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, and the County of Orange, you’ll be able to get going on your road to activity in no time.

Create Your Masterpiece Whether your ambition is to create a homemade gift in time for the holidays, or to finally put together the masterwork you’ve always carried in your mind, there are numerous ways to start an art project in South County. The city of San Clemente offers a variety of beginner and intermediate art classes at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center. Whether you want to work with watercolors, sketching, acrylics and oils, or jewelry, there is a class waiting to teach you the basics to get you on your way and let your mind create. If inspiration is what you’re looking for, check out the plein air painting competition put on by the San Clemente Art Association, or walk around the tri-cities to find your own outdoor muses. If theater’s your bag, the Beach Cities Senior Club takes trips to performances on stage regularly throughout the year.

Advance Your Knowledge Keeping your mind fresh and taking on new educational challenges is a key component of aging well. Whether you’re committing to learning a new skill or taking a master’s class, as long as your brainwaves are flowing, you’re doing well. Luckily there are a lot of free, low-commitment opportunities to learn in the tri-cities. The Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center and Ocean Institute can be a wealth of

local marine knowledge. The San Onofre Foundation hosts a regular summer lecture series about a variety of topics. And the San Juan Capistrano Library hosts film nights, book talks and more.

Test Your Body All three senior centers host physical education and workout classes for those over the age of 55. San Clemente offers a small gym with workout equipment, while Dana Pont is equipped with a basketball court. The San Juan facility hosts a number of classes taught by professionals.

There are seated fitness classes, stretching and toning workouts, hula groups, chair yoga and much more. Of course our communities are also home to a number of watersport, cycling, walking and equestrian groups that can apply some of these exercise techniques to a specific task.

Help Your Community Volunteering is a great way to try on a “second career” after retiring while also continuing to provide a service to the community. RSVP, formerly the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, is a free members-only program that matches willing senior volunteers to opportunities that match their interest, skills and desires. Established in 1971, RSVP is one of the largest senior volunteer organizations in the nation with more than 360,000 volunteers. Check out www.oneoc.org for more information on how you can sign up to making a difference in the tri-cities.

aging well |

CREATURE COMFORTS

S

BY ERIC HEINZ

tudies on senior citizens and their relationship with comfort pets show that more often than not, animals and humans benefit each other in a mutual way.

But before becoming the owner of a pet, people should always consult with professionals to see if their living situation will work for both them and the pet.

Sharron Johnson, who visits various assisted living facilities, works with her certified therapy dog, Linus, who had to go through two years of training through the National Therapy Dog Registry “K9 to 5” program and tests administered by the American Kennel Club.

“It’s gaining a lot of traction as more people figure out what kinds of satisfaction can come out of having a therapy dog,” Johnson said.

Johnson frequents San Clemente Villas by the Sea, an assisted living and memory care facility, as well as other nursing

Having a pet can benefit seniors looking for companionship

homes so seniors can enjoy the company of Linus. She said bringing joy to the residents is her top priority.

“They just get so excited to see him,” Johnson said. “I know how much my animals have meant to me, having grown up with dogs. But it takes commitment and consistency. There are some residents at the Villas in assisted living who do have cats or dogs, and they’re a joy.”

Johnson said if people are interested in training a therapy dog, they should be diligent in their search to find a reputable and experienced organization.

Dr. John Agostini of San Clemente Veterinary Hospital is on the board of the nonprofit Pet Project Foundation, which raises funds for medical care for animals at the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter.

Agostini said by keeping the animals healthy and alive, people whose pets recently died may find comfort in another pet looking for a home.

“That allows a nice opportunity for people to adopt these animals,” Agostini

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

Sharron Johnson and her therapy dog, Linus, visit various senior living facilities in South Orange County.

Photo: Eric Heinz

said. “A lot of the people who adopt are senior citizens. I’ve had clients who have been in town for years, and a happy bond is formed. A lot of older people benefit from having a pet in the house.”

Agostini said the pets also help people stay active to some degree, but people should be capable of taking care of the pet, he said.

Most seniors enjoy the company of a lap dog or a dog that isn’t quite as rambunctious as a puppy, Agostini said, but each relationship is different.

Pet Project Foundation also helps senior

citizensiving on a fixed income pay for their pets’ care.

“If someone doesn’t want the responsibility of taking care of the pet, but they benefit from being around them, they can become a volunteer at the shelter,”Agostini said, adding they have to go through training first. “There are many volunteers there who are in their 70s and 80s.”

For more information about Pet Project Foundation, visit www.petprojectfoundation.org. For more information about the National Therapy Dog Registry, visit www.nationaltherapydogregistry.com.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

The 55+ communities at Rancho Mission Viejo offer social and recreational opportunities in a beautiful setting. Photo: Courtesy

SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITIES

Communities for those 55 and older foster relationships and healthy living

A

BY MATT CORTINA AND ERIC HEINZ

s you get older, it’s common to want to live in a community with people of a similar age, who share the same experiences and values as you. With a sizable aging population in South Orange County, there are likewise a number of communities designated for folks over the age of 55.

These communities offer quality of life, more than anything else. With amenities and activities suited for people of a certain age, members are empowered to live without caution and enjoy what life has to offer.

We highlighted two communities in South Orange County: the residential and lifestyle community of Rancho Mission Viejo (and their subsequent senior community, Gavilan), and San Clemente Village, which is an organization that fosters community through events and programs.

Rancho Mission Viejo The Ranch, as it’s known, refers to 23,000 acres of space behind San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. About 25 percent of the land is in the process of being developed, which includes mixed-use villages, parks, clubhouses, retail centers, farms, trails, businesses and senior living centers—in short, it’s a small town.

In total, about 6,000 of these homes are reserved for people over 55 years old. The first village, Sendero, is already built and

San Clemente Village brings the senior community together through programs and events. Photo: Courtesy

sold, but includes Gavilan, a grouping of four neighborhoods of single-floor homes.

In Gavilan is The Hacienda, a 55-plus only clubhouse with a fitness center, lounge, outdoor patio with grills, garden, bocce courts, pool and meeting rooms.

And there’s more to come. In the Reserve’s newest village, Esencia, is more Gavilan neighborhoods abutting all-ages neighborhoods in order to foster mixedage activities. There are six Gavilan neighborhoods currently selling homes. They all have access to The Outlook, a resortstyle pool with an outdoor dining area, fire pit and much more. And of course, all 55-plus residents throughout Esencia can access The Hacienda in Sendero.

But the neighborhood amenities themselves are just one part of the appeal of Rancho Mission Viejo. There are breathtaking views available from the The Hilltop Center, and trails that jut through the region’s rugged terrain.

Homes in the community range from $600,000 to $900,000, and the other neighborhoods are scheduled to be built in phases over the coming years. For more information on the community, visit www. ranchomissionviejo.com.

San Clemente Village Launched in October 2016, the San Clemente Village is a volunteer-run organization that provides mutual services among

its elderly members, ages 55 and older. It is governed by a board of directors and is supported by subcommittees.

San Clemente Village representative Bob Coff, an operating manager who works with other volunteers, said members take turns with various duties as much as they can. They provide transportation, help with errands and other household chores. It’s also intended to be a social organization to encourage people to become engaged with others.

“Socialized isolation is very debilitating, so the Village keeps us very engaged in the community,” Coff said during the April 18 San Clemente City Council meeting.

“We have members who are 90 years old who have given up their cars because The Village provides transportation up to the grocery store or church. For people who are very independent to give up their cars is a very big accomplishment.”

Membership fees can be found on the Village website. Volunteer opportunities are also available to nonmembers. The Village will accept any age for volunteers, and Reams said they eventually want to start working with teens who want to volunteer. That program is still being developed.

Sherry Reams, president of San Clemente Village, said the organization has increased its membership since launching.

“We now have 77 members and 60 volunteers who have gone through background checks and training,” Reams said.

The Village has also increased its monthly and weekly activities, such as lawn bowling, bridge, bunco, cooking demonstrations, yoga and meditation, and more.

The most popular is the dine-out nights, which are once a month.

Reams said about 15 to 20 people attend the night out at a local restaurant.

To help with technology education, the group helps seniors learn how to choose a password and shows people what certain things mean in a computer and how to avoid online fraud.

“One of the things we’re going to start doing is a safety series, such as how to identify Medicare fraud and how to hire a contractor, how to avoid insurance fraud,” Reams said. “We will work with the sheriff’s department for self-defense for seniors.”

An increase of sociability among members has been noticed, Reams said, which has helped them get out of their homes more frequently.

“We want to set up a program for teens who will teach technology for different products,” Reams said “We are always looking for new ideas.”

A monthly newsletter will be distributed in the near future, once the Village is able to get a new marketing professional.

People do not need to be members to sign up for the newsletter, which can be done on the organization’s website.

For more information about the San Clemente Village, call 949.441.1438 or email info@scvillage.org and visit www.scvillage. org for updates and event calendar.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

PREPARATION IS KEY

How to be ready in the event of a natural disaster

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BY MATT CORTINA

e hope it never happens in South Orange County, but of course natural disasters are a part of life on Earth. And though the paths of earthquakes, storms, heat waves, tsunamis and more can seem arbitrary, there are several steps seniors can take to be aware of potential emergency situations, and to prepare for them.

Here are four basic tips to get you started with your emergency plan, but we recommend consulting your local city emergency planning department for more specific information.

1

Survey Your Risks

2

Devise a Plan

Making sure you’re prepared for an emergency first requires you to find out what types of emergencies are most likely.

Regionally speaking, an earthquake, extreme heat and flooding could create an emergency situation. All of these risks lead to specific life-threatening reactions, such as loss of power, structural damage that blocks movement, fire, high temperatures, lack of access to clean water, and hypothermia.

Planning can save lives. This starts with installing adequate fire prevention items like a smoke alarm and fire extinguisher.

It also extends to ensuring food, medicine and clean water are in a reasonably safe and accessible location in your home.

You should keep emergency phone numbers and those of neighbors and loved ones saved both on your phone and in print, near a landline if possible. Planning suitable evacuation routes both out of your home and out of your neighborhood is a potentially life-saving endeavor. And, of course, it’s important to make sure that if you, or anyone you’re living with, has disabilities, that you consider all potential impediments that may create in an emergency.

3

An emergency kit located in a safe, accessible area could save your life. It should include medicine, water, food, a flashlight, batteries, a radio, important emergency and family contacts, backup glasses or hearing aids, and whatever else you deem a necessity. You should replace the perishable items—batteries and food—every six months to ensure they’ll work should they ever be needed. Additionally, you should consider keeping important documents like your insurance, passports and vital records nearby, or in a safe place that will be accessible in an emergency.

4

The tri-cities are home to several emergency preparedness organizations. In Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, the Community Emergency Response Team holds a series of classes that educates members of the community on everything to do in the event of a disaster, from preparation to fire safety to medical concerns. You can also check with each city to see where the nearest shelter is to your community. Also, reach out to your community manager or HOA directors to see if they have localized emergency response plans and designated shelters. It also doesn’t hurt to have a “buddy system” approach, and exchange information with a neighbor or friend in the event of a disaster.

Make an Emergency Kit

Connect with Your Community

aging well |

THE DOCTOR IS IN

Telemedicine, housecalls and concierge services make receiving healthcare more comfortable and convenient

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BY DEBRA HOLM

ast year’s closure of Saddleback Memorial Hospital in San Clemente left many South County residents without a nearby resource for emergency room care. However, many visits to the ER are not truly emergencies. The good news is there is now a convenient local service to assist with acute health care assessment.

MedHero, located in San Clemente, offers “Advanced Urgent Care.” What this means is that in addition to traditional urgent care services, MedHero offers telemedicine via a smartphone app, as well as house calls.

Dr. Gregory Moreno, founder of MedHero, wants to be clear that their services are not intended to replace a necessary emergency room visit, or a call to 9-1-1 in a life-threatening situation. Their goal is to bridge the gap between services provided

by a primary care physician and an unnecessary—as well as potentially lengthy and expensive—visit to a hospital emergency room.

Dr. Moreno states that, “Urgent care and house calls have become a big part of current healthcare insurance reform.” He also observed that, in many instances, the visits senior patients make to emergency rooms involve routine treatment for skin tears and minor bumps and bruises.

Avoiding an emergency room visit is a “win-win” answer for all parties involved.

An insurance company benefits from avoiding an expensive emergency room visit and possible hospital stay. A patient is allowed to receive treatment in the comfort and privacy of their own home. Hospital medical staff can administer to those who truly require immediate emergency care as opposed to those with conditions that can be treated just as effectively by other medical professionals.

The MedHero app may be downloaded on to a smart phone for readily available telemedicine. Photo: Courtesy of MedHero

MedHero’s services include treating lacerations, burns, rashes, stomach flu, sunburn urinary issues, diarrhea and dehydration as well as sprains and broken bones. X-rays are taken onsite, and many prescriptions are available at the facility.

So what is telemedicine? The sequence begins by downloading the MedHero app and inputting your medical history and health concern. An interview is then conducted via telephone. In instances where a laceration, rash or skin infection may be present, a photo taken with a smartphone

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

is submitted. A diagnosis is made, and a treatment plan is recommended. Any prescriptions needed are faxed to a pharmacy chosen by the patient.

Making local residents aware of these services—particularly seniors—has been a challenge for Dr. Moreno and his staff.

Current technology may not be readily available to those they hope to reach. If a patient is treated during a visit to the MedHero office, they are provided with information about the MedHero app and encouraged to take advantage of its many benefits. For potential patients who are unfamiliar with installing apps on a smartphone, the staff at MedHero will gladly assist with this process. For more information, visit www. medherosc.com or call 949.207.3603.

Doctor in My House is a membershipbased concierge medical practice providing services to the tri-city area. Three program options are available that can be tailored to a patient’s specific needs. Services offered include house calls, preventative care, advice regarding nutritional needs, and exercise plans. If a specialist is required, your physician reviews and coordinates all referrals. Doctors also monitor medications to ensure there are no potential conflicts or prescriptions they deem to be unnecessary.

For more information about Doctor in My House, visit www. doctorinmyhouse. com or call 949.491.1424.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

QUITE THE PICKLE Local seniors use pickleball league to stay active

BY STEVE BREAZEALE

Video chatting services offer a way to have a face-to-face conversation with loved ones remotely.

STAYING CONNECTED

WITH LOVED ONES Using technology to keep in touch with family and friends

BY MATT CORTINA

hough much of aging well requires seniors to get outside and unplug from an everincreasing flurry of advertisements, Facebook posts and “fake news,” technology serves a vital role in communicating with loved ones—particularly those in younger generations.

Luckily, about 80 percent of seniors have a cell phone according to a Pew Research study, and 60 percent of adults access the internet. That means the tools of email, video chatting and social media are available to more seniors than ever.

Speaking from experience, video chatting services like Skype, Google video, and Apple’s FaceTime are great ways to have face-to-face conversations with people who live far away or people who

are unable to leave the house. You can watch grandchildren grow from across the country, or just have a conversation with a friend across town without feeling disconnected. Using video recording programs on smart phones and computers is also as easy as opening the program, clicking record, then clicking send—a text or email of your video message will be in the inbox of your recipient in seconds.

Social media is also a convenient way to keep tabs on those important to you. Facebook, of course, allows you a look at the everyday thoughts and images from your network, but ask your friends and family if there are blogs, Instagram accounts (a photo sharing phone program), Twitter handles or more that you can access at your leisure.

he sport of pickleball might have a peculiar name, but the action is very familiar. The court on which it is played is small but the boundaries and movements required are easily understood. It is considered by many to be the fastest-growing sport in the United States, and it is one of the more unique activities out there today.

“It’s like ping pong on steroids.” Dana Point Pickleball co-founder Gary Koupal said, perhaps more accurately, when describing the game.

Pickleball was created in 1965 and has since become extremely popular nationwide. According to the USA Pickleball Association, more than 2.5 million people across North America play the sport, and it has become a favorite amongst seniors.

It is a mix between tennis and badminton that does not demand an excessive amount of movement when played at the recreational level.

Koupal and his wife and group co-founder Patti are the resident pickleball experts in the tri-city area. Gary and Patti can be found doling out game strategy and rules inside the Dana Point Community Center gym every Tuesday and Thursday morning as they lead the members of Dana Point Pickleball in organized games.

The Koupals started the club in 2016 and joined up with the Dana Point Community Center to provide free court usage for all interested players. They are certified ambassadors of the USAPA and teach beginners the fundamentals and rules so people can play the first time they show up for a gym session. Dana Point Pickleball also provides equipment free of charge.

Dana Point Pickleball has grown to include over 40 members since 2016. The group meets twice a week at the Dana Point Community Center. Photo: Steve Breazeale

Since the group started in 2016, their numbers have grown to include more than 50 weekly members. The group has players that range from ages 40 to 80.

A reason for the game’s widespread popularity, particularly amongst seniors, is that it accommodates all skill levels and is user-friendly.

Games usually last around 15 minutes, and a player can achieve anywhere from two to four miles worth of steps in a twohour window, Gary estimates.

A pickleball game features four players, two to a side, hitting a plastic ball back and forth into the other team’s area with paddles, much like the action of tennis.

The scoring system is similar to ping pong, and there is a low net that divides the court.

Once the ball is served and in play, players creep closer to the net and most of the action takes place in close quarters. The action inside tight spaces provides a good low-impact exercise, but it also gets the players’ minds thinking strategically.

“A lot of people are not as agile. I can’t run up to it, but I was practicing all the strategy,” Patti Koupal said. “Some people are naturally just stronger and better but you can kind of balance it off as you play around.”

“People come and play (pickleball) and they have a smile. They come in and play and say ‘Oh, that was a good shot. I had a good time’. It’s just a natural instinct,” Gary Koupal added.

Dana Point Pickleball is open to everyone ages 18 and up, and meets every Tuesday and Thursday at the Dana Point Community Center from 8- to 10:30 a.m.

For more information visit www.danapointpickleballblog.blogspot.com.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

TAKING CARE OF

MOM AND DAD

What to expect when taking care of your aging parents

BY MATT CORTINA

t’s a part of the circle of life for many: parents take care of their children when they’re young, and children in turn take care of their parents when they’re old. There’s a beautiful symmetry in the way parentchild units help each other in times of need.

Nevertheless, it’s not always easy to see our parents get older, and the transition from child to caretaker can be difficult.

Luckily, you’re not the first to go through the process, and there are tons of resources from state and federal aging authorities to nonprofit groups to help you through the process.

Here are a few key points aggregated from the Department of State and the AARP to keep in mind as you begin the process of caring for your aging parents.

Communicate The first step to figuring out any elderly care plan is to communicate with your parent or parents. Let them know that change will only come slowly, and that their quality of life is paramount. They should feel like they are in control of the decisions that will affect the next chapter of their lives. Be sure you know what their concerns are as they age, and also what they hope to accomplish.

Know the Warning Signs Oftentimes, parents will either hide issues from their children or think small details that they’ve lived with, and dealt with, for a while are things they are in control of. Older folks also may develop physical or mental illnesses that they are unable to control. So it’s helpful to know that in conjunction with communicating with your parents, you should educate

yourself on common signs that indicate they need help. Failure to take medication, sudden weight loss, burns or injury marks, extreme forgetfulness or suspicion and deterioration of personal habits can all be signs that something is happening with your loved one, and a medical professional should be consulted.

Research Living Options Whether your parents decide to continue living in their homes or move to a senior facility, it’s good to research the caretaking options available to your family. Senior living facilities range from hands-off 55-andolder living communities to round-the-clock assisted living. Check with your parents’ insurance provider, often Medicaid, to

determine what facilities are available.

If your parent or parents choose to stay home, research caretaking companies that can provide companionship, basic housekeeping and food preparation when you’re not around. The County of Orange also provides services to senior citizens.

Take Time for Yourself It can frankly be exhausting to care for your parents, especially if you have young children and work to manage. That’s why it’s important to delegate responsibility with family, friends and service organizations; communicate with your family and your parents about the toll it’s taking; and stick to the goals you set for yourself with regards to caring for your parents.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

DOUBLE-CHECK THE CALLER ID

Common phone and internet scams of which to be wary

BY MATT CORTINA

echnology enables us to stay in touch with friends and family and conduct a lot of business from the comfort of our own homes. No doubt, it’s a vital piece of aging well. But scammers have long been using telephone and internet channels to bilk people—particularly seniors—out of money.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) highlights several reasons why seniors are often the targets of phone and internet scams. Seniors tend to have nest egg financial resources, which make them targets for scammers. Folks who grew up before 1950 also tend to be more trusting, or at least more willing to hear what a scammer has to say, and thus more likely to be persuaded. Seniors also may feel ashamed that they’ve been had by a

scammer, and thus unwilling to report it— though who can blame someone for being taken, it’s important to let officials know what’s going around the community.

The nonprofit National Council on Aging as well as local law enforcement has

highlighted several common scams for which to look out.

Pigeon Drop In this scam, a person will call you or send you an email indicating that they have a large amount of money and is willing to give you some of it if only you divulge your bank account information or put up money of your own. This is the notorious “Nigerian prince” scam, wherein a member of the African country’s royalty, potentially a relative of yours, says it’s your lucky day. But, it’s not. And you should be wary of any offer like this, even if a lawyer or advocate calls to back up the claim.

Fake Accident Unfortunately, access to the names of your friends or relatives may be readily available on the internet to scammers.

That’s why you may get a phone call or email saying that that person is in trouble and needs money wired to them immediately. But be aware of the person sending that message, even if they have an official-sounding title or email address.

Always check with the relative in question, or feel free to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to check out any potential scam.

Perfect Product Scammers will sometimes try to convince seniors that there’s a once-in-a-life-

time product guaranteed to extend life and vitality. With all the products advertised on TV and the internet nowadays, it’s easy to believe the phone is just another avenue through which to be sold a product. But often, these products never come after payment is received.

Fraudulent Charity Who can forget the episode of Seinfeld where George gives out “donations” to the “Human Fund,” as an office holiday gift?

Of course, he made up the Human Fund, thus having to not pay for gifts. Scammers will use the same tactic, although with less hilarious results. Be aware of anyone soliciting donations for any nonprofit, and do your research on the organization before committing to any payment.

Email Scams There’s a lot we still don’t know about email scams—as technology and virus blockers change, so do scams. But there is a common tactic being employed. Often called phishing, scammers will send you an email asking to verify personal or financial information. This can result in everything from full robbery of your sensitive information to installation of a virus on your computer. Get a good virus scanner on your computer, be very skeptical of opening anything in your email’s junk box and if in doubt, check with a friend, family member or other authority.

aging well |

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

S T OF OUR COMMUNITY O H S P A SN

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BY TOM BLAKE

e who live in the tri-city area are blessed with a wonderful climate, a beautiful ocean and beaches, and a plethora of outdoor activity opportunities. The people aover 50 I encounter embrace life in so many positive ways.

Here is how some of our local citizens are aging well.

Ruth Ruth Levitan, a widow, is a spry 97.

Ruth has lived in the same home in Dana Point for 42 years. Three times a week, she does water aerobics at the Niguel Shores pool with the Dippy Dolphins.

Ruth says, “I also belong to the Garden Club, Women’s Club and a reading club (one book per month). I do bible study at my church (with homework), walk daily and eat fresh fruit and vegetables. I avoid starchy foods.”

Yoko Yoko Smith, 62, San Juan Capistrano, says, “I have a positive attitude and will do anything fun, not dangerous and not skydiving.

“After retiring from a career in industrial engineering in 2010, I’ve had the time of my life: traveling, bike riding, hiking, snow skiing, and taking Zumba and Silver Sneaker classes. In 2016, I sold my home in San Diego and moved to San Juan Capistrano to be near my son and his wife. My grandson was born this January and what a blessing he is!

“I attend a wonderful church (Saddleback Church), play poker with an eclectic group of guys on Fridays, and have dates with my long-distance friend on weekends I traveled to Iceland in February and took a cruise to Vancouver last week. One of my goals in 2017 is to learn standup paddle boarding. Also, if anyone would like to be my bike riding or hiking buddy, let Tom know.”

Laura & Marilyn Marilyn Brown and Laura Schreibman are exercise and stand up paddle boarding friends Brown, 72, says, “I’ve been widowed three years, a San Clemente resident for 37 years, retired Hospice Registered Nurse, mother of three sons, grandmother of four, and daughter to my 94-year-old mother. I am a blessed woman with a loving family, great friends and neighbors.

Marilyn says, “I do stand up paddle boarding (SUP) both inside and outside of Dana Harbor two to three times a week.

“I keep track of my daily steps and try to achieve 10,000 steps a day. My friend and I share a personal trainer twice a week and I belong to Fitness Elite Women’s Gym in Laguna Niguel where I participate in Reformer Pilates, Barre and Urban Rebound classes. I enjoy gardening, belonging to a book club, and recently became a member of Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay and travel as much as I can.

Schreibman, 70, San Clemente, says, “Aging well means continuing an active, involved, challenging lifestyle. Three years ago, I retired from my position as Professor of Psychology at University of California, San Diego, where I taught and conducted research for 30 years.

“I am involved in a lot of exercise activities, six days a week. I take Pilates and Barre classes, work with a personal trainer, and have taken up SUP with a vengeance!

“In college, I played guitar. I have resumed playing in retirement. Social isolation is a huge problem for retirees so I retain prior friendships and make new ones. Plus, my husband and I travel for leisure.”

for two to three hours, three times a week, either in the Harbor or in the ocean. This is an excellent sport to keep you in good overall shape. I love being on the ocean with fresh air, sunshine and a great group of women.

“I recently started strength training with a personal trainer who is also my outrigger coach. I try to stay slim by eating healthy.

“Spending time with my 10-year-old granddaughter is a priority. We like to travel and adventure out together. We go camping, hiking, and take lots of road trips.”

Mike & Jane

Karen Karen Jensen got a great start to aging well—after working for 30 years--by retiring March 30 from Pacific Western Bank, where she was as an assistant vice president.

Karen said, “This chapter will bring a lovely new experience taking up forgotten joys like planting flowers on a beautiful spring day with my sweetheart of almost 50 years, traveling to see our loved ones and actually baking (instead of buying cookies for our six grandkids!).

“Having time to spend relaxing with my Bible instead of rushing through and missing the blessings will be precious.

“I see the golden commodity that has been missing is time. I plan to take advantage and use it or waste it well! Happy times looking back and happy times looking ahead.”

Linda Hakim, 62, a widow, says, “I have paddled with the Dana Point Outrigger Canoe Club for 20 years. We practice

Mike and Jane Lockett, owners of The UPS Store on PCH in Dana Point, believe surrounding themselves with good people helps them stay young. They said, “We have a saying in our family, ‘If your house is not in order, everything else falls by the wayside.’ It’s important for us to put our family and each other first.

“We love walking our dog Zo in our beautiful neighborhood, eating at our local restaurants, and attending our church in Capistrano Beach. Our grandson, a senior at Dana Hills High School, helps to keep us current. Nurturing our personal relationships helps us to be better in all that we do.”

Terry

Ken Linda

day afternoons, and at Stillwater in Dana Point most Wednesday nights.

“I walked every day in 2016. And I watch what I eat; it’s usually yogurt and fruit for lunch. Recently, a friend and I went to Texas and danced in Austin, San Antonio and Bandera.

“If senior single men want to meet nice women, take up country dancing. See you at the Swallows!”

Ken Stetter is aging well. Retired for 14 years, in his 70s, he takes no medications or pills. Ken says, “Country and Western dancing is my passion; I dance three or four times each week. You can find me at the Swallows Inn in San Juan Capistrano on Thursday nights and Sun-

Terry Lee Ives, San Clemente, says, “To me, aging well means I take individual personal responsibility for my health, creating a quality of life as I age into my 70s, 80s, 90s, and over 100!

“As a former triathlete, I recognize the importance of the food I eat, the time spent on cardio exercise, mind and body, and my faith, attitude and positive thinking are important.

“I am active in selling and advising and servicing Medicare A, B, C, and D benefits. I plan to work until age 90, and be a ski instructor until age 101. I have had a second home at the base of Beaver Creek Mountain in Colorado since 1996 and have skied in Colorado for 32 years.”

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 11) GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park.

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

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

Monday | 01 YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this summer. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

Wednesday | 03 FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB 2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.

KARAOKE AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 7 p.m. Sing karaoke, imbibe and eat free popcorn at The Swallow’s Inn’s karaoke night with Bobby and Joel. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS 9 p.m.-1 a.m. All levels of musicians are welcome to perform at this weekly open mic. Bring your instruments, or voice, and show off your talent. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. www.knuckleheadsmusic.com.

FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S 9:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s with food and drink specials. There will be local and professional talent. 2391 S. El C amino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

Thursday | 04 LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens volunteers, students and teachers at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano.

Help care for and maintain native plants and butterflies while enjoying a little dirt therapy and friendship. Every Thursday.

No experience needed. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

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

Stillwater Spirits and Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

SPANISH WINE TASTING 7-9 p.m. Stop by Barnoa Wine Bar for a tasting of Spanish wines. Admission is $25 and includes light appetizers. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente.

949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

THE DISH

FRIED CHICKEN AND WAFFLES

F

Friday | 05 LIVE THEATER: ‘THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS’ 8 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse presents this classic happy-go-lucky view of small town vice and statewide political side-stepping through the demise of the Chicken Ranch, known since the 1850s as one of the better pleasure palaces in all of Texas. Show runs through May 21. Tickets are $29-$39. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Saturday | 06 GARDENING CLASS: CONTAINER GARDENING 8 a.m. Stop by Armstrong Garden Center for a class on container gardening. No registration required. 32382 Del Obispo St., San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.6666. www.armstronggarden.com.

rom Los Angeles to Nashville, fried chicken is sold in warped shacks and up-to-code boutiques reproduced to look like those shacks. Many of these places will claim to have the best fried chicken, and many are right to do so.

But fried chicken is comfort food. Chefs can sprinkle organic smoked sumac in the batter or raise chickens in their grandmother’s backyard, but fried chicken appeals more to the soul than the taste buds, so empirical research is a little fruitless.

Given that criteria, Mollie’s make fried chicken that could stand up against Gus’s, Roscoe’s, Yardbird or any other take. And they don’t make a big deal about it; out of what seems like 300 menu items, “fried chicken and waffles” gets a bolded font and a small box. You could miss it.

But then you’d be missing a breast, wing and thigh that are wrapped in a thin, crispy and deeply umami skin, flecked with a healthy amount of fiery black pepper. The meat is moist and abundant, and the balance of crunch to chew is exemplary.

Underneath, two gorgeous Belgian waffles are crispy and light, and taste like vanilla and lemon. A Tapatio butter rounds out the dish and elevates it beyond reproach—if this isn’t your style of waffle or chicken, the butter is undeniable.

Perhaps it’s the big, perpetually filled coffee mug, or the wood panels, or the well-worn booths—or maybe it really is the chicken—but Mollie’s is comfort. Though you should see for yourself.

Mollie’s Famous Café. 32033 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.240.9261. www.molliesfamouscafesjc.com

MID-SPRING NATURE HIKE 8-10:30 a.m. This spring nature hike will traverse the Sycamore Loop trail to Gato Road on The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo, and will showcase the last of the spring wildflowers blooming on the land.

Tickets are $5 for children, $10 for adults.

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

REPLACE YOUR LAWN WORKSHOP 9:30-10:30 a.m. The first step to planting a native garden is to remove your water-hungry lawn. Learn how to “kill your lawn” with Tree of Life Nursery’s Sam Manning in this informative workshop.

Tree of Life Nursery. 33201 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

SOKA UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The 16th annual Soka University International Festival includes 900 musicians and dancers on four stages; dancing, art and games; international food; children’s activities; and much more. International attire is encouraged. One Univeristy Drive, Aliso Viejo. www.soka.edu.

OUTLETS FIESTA DE MAYO CELEBRATION 1-4 p.m. Outlets at San Clemente will host its second annual Fiesta de Mayo Celebration with all proceeds benefitting the Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation. The event will feature mariachis, Ballet Folklorico, craft beer, a taco truck and free family-friendly fun, including balloon artists, giveaways, a photo

EDITOR’S PICK Photos: Allison Jarrell

SATURDAY, MAY 6 AND SUNDAY MAY 7: ECO GARDEN EXPO 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The annual two-day Eco Garden Expo returns to Los Rios Park. Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens puts on this festival, which includes DIY workshops, guest speakers on a variety of topics, vendors and exhibitors, tastes, plant sales and much more. The merchants on Los Rios Street will also be open for business, some with sales and specials.

The expo is free to enter, and there is a free shuttle from the parking lot at City Hall.

31766 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.606.6704. www.goinnative.net. booth and more. 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.535.2323. www.outletsatsanclemente.com

Sunday | 07 CASA PINWHEEL PROJECT 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Orange County will be sticking 3,000 pinwheels in the ground in the Dana Point Harbor to represent the

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3,000 children who are currently in the foster care system in the county, in conjunction with National Foster Care Awareness Month in May. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. www.casaoc.org/pinwheel.

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

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Dirt Therapy by Marianne Taylor

Nature as the Teacher

Annual Eco Garden Expo at Los Rios Park returns May 6-7

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ather your friends and family and be part of the fourth annual Eco Garden Expo on Saturday and Sunday, May 6-7, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Los Rios Park in historic San Juan Capistrano.

Created by local nonprofit Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens, the Eco Garden Expo uses nature as a teacher and offers the latest environmental-based research from the University of California through the Orange County Master Gardeners speaker series. This year master gardener Brian Hale will once again wow the crowds with his humor and easy approach to DIRT THERAPY growing successful

By Marianne tomatoes. Kris BronTaylor ner will lead the way on creating and constructing a raised bed for vegetables—be sure to watch the live demonstration.

Visitors can also take a walk with master gardener Vivian Martin around the certified butterfly gardens by the Montanez Adobe. Listen to her call to action to help save the endangered Monarch butterfly and provide a healthy habitat for all butterflies. Learn how to make your own hypertufa pot from master gardener Chris Dress using various aggregates mixtures to create a rustic textured container.

Interested in learning about fresh eggs and raising your own backyard chickens?

Master gardener Terry Vargas will show you just how wonderful it is to raise your own food.

At this year’s event, we’re using the power of creativity to inspire greater wellbeing for the earth and for ourselves.

With more than 50 exhibitors showcasing products, plants, resources and services, exhibitors will offer hands-on workshops and live demonstrations. We’ve also created a wellness center with Pacific Coast Kinesiology—stop by for a chair massage, light facial and aromatherapy oils, along with holistic lifestyle talks with wellness center owner Dr. Paul Garcia.

In need of plants? Check out Tree of Life Nursery for California natives, The Fat Plant Man for unusual and unique succulents and cactus, or Goin Native for perennials, natives, cactus, color and ground covers. Visitors can even sign up for a make-n-take log centerpiece workshop, taught by yours truly.

You’ll learn so much from expert guest speakers who will be discussing a wide The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

variety of garden, landscape and environmental ideas at the arboretum stage.

Listen to the professional advice from presenters Wendy Proud of Mountain States Wholesale Nursery; Nicholas Staddon, formerly with Monrovia Nursery; Erik Cutter, urban farmer with Alegría Fresh; Susie Vanderlip, Monarch Butterfly Citizen scientist; and Manny Kiesser of Inside the Outdoors Foundation.

With the drought behind us, we’ve created four different landscaped demonstration gardens designed by Jodie Cook of My Avant Garden and Wendy Proud to help navigate the new normal for California. You’ll take away awesome ideas and healthy tips while learning how to integrate environmental resources into your lifestyle and your home garden.

The Los Rios Street shops and merchants will also be participating in this year’s expo, with offerings like Día de los Muertos-style face painting at Las Catrinas, DIY fairy gardens at Cottage Home and Garden and food-to-go from Hummingbird House Café.

Visitors can enjoy live music, refreshments and art at Cottage Gallery, get cozy while shopping at Nest or grab a scone and tea-to-go from The Tea House on Los Rios. Remember to savor your time while on Los Rios Street and explore the beauty of the oldest residential street in California.

Admission to the expo is free, and a free shuttle will be available from the City Hall parking lot to Los Rios Park from 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Be green—help reduce traffic in our downtown. Come by foot, bike, Uber, Lyft, train or carpool. Every little bit helps. See you at the expo!

For more info, visit www.goinnative.net, email marianne@goinnative.net, or call 949.606.6704.

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.

A view of The Congdon House today.

Photo: Courtesy of The Ecology Center

GUEST OPINION: Then & Now: By Rhonda deHaan

Stewards of the Land

Historic farmhouse highlights Orange County’s agricultural past

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ucked away off the beaten path, but still not too far out of the way, is a picturesque little farm where you can go to buy fresh fruits and vegetables every day. In its 20th year of growing organic produce, this family farm continues a tradition that started more than 145 years ago.

In the middle of this land sits an old farmhouse built by Joel Congdon around 1877. This quaint building is the oldest wood frame home in San Juan Capistrano and reflects charming architectural features of the Victorian-era style. The structure sits well back from the street, nestled among lush foliage that has grown under the devoted care of its current occupant, The Ecology Center.

The remaining 29 acres are a fraction of the original 160 acres Congdon purchased in 1868. When he decided to grow walnuts in 1870, the locals are said to have considered it a risky proposition at best.

However, proving them wrong, Congdon harvested his first crop in 1877. This was the first 6,000 pounds of what would become a major walnut industry.

The Congdon House and surrounding farmland have weathered the passing of time and provide visitors a glimpse of Orange County’s agricultural past. It reminds us of a quieter time before drive-thru’s and freeways, when food was harvested locally and families came together for fresh home-cooked meals.

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The Congdon House was built around 1877 by Joel Congdon, who harvested his first crop of walnuts on the land that same year. Photo: Courtesy of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society

The current stewards of this rich heritage are South Coast Farms and The Ecology Center. At South Coast Farms, it is their mission to provide “delicious, nutritious fruits and vegetables.” They are dedicated to bringing “whole food picked fresh, grown without chemicals” to the community every day at their farm stand.

Next door, The Ecology Center is also open daily and gives visitors an immersive experience in which to learn and be inspired about living well and using environmentally responsible practices. The offices and general store of this nonprofit occupy the historic Congdon House, which they lovingly maintain with respect to its unique past.

The Congdon House was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.

This is a wonderful time of year to visit this beautiful property located at the corner of Camino Del Avion and Alipaz Street. Take the family and enjoy the warm sunshine as you peruse the fresh harvests at the farm stand and take a self-guided tour at the educational center.

Rhonda deHaan has lived in San Juan Capistrano only 10 years but has quickly embraced THEN & NOW the town. She is a proud

By Rhonda mother of two, a freelance deHaan writer, an SJC Friends of the Library board director, and is currently serving her sixth year on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

Madrid, Spain: One of the Great Cities of the World

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ccasionally, when people see my partner, Greta, and I around the tricity area, they say, “We read about your last trip. Where are you traveling to next?”

Recently, we’ve answered, “This April and May, Spain and Portugal.”

Greta and I believe it’s important to travel at this stage in our lives, while we are still physically able to do so, and we feel it’s important to keep our bodies moving and minds active on each trip.

We both wear Fitbits on our wrists, which record the number of steps we take, and in Madrid we knew we’d be taking lots of steps.

We put those Fitbits to the test before reaching our first hotel in Spain. Madrid’s Barajas International Airport is enormous.

It took us 2,500 steps and a seven-minute shuttle train ride to get from the airplane to the luggage pickup area.

The taxi driver, who drove us from the airport to downtown Madrid, delivered us to the wrong hotel, even though we had shown him our reservation print-out, which included the address.

“It’s a 12-minute walk to your hotel,” a desk clerk at the wrong hotel told us. “It happens all of the time.” Twelve minutes of walking turned into 30 minutes. Along the way, we saw another couple walking in the same direction—looking like us— rolling suitcases and holding an identical hotel reservation print out.

“Looking for Hotel H10?” we asked.

Yup, their taxi driver also dropped them at the same wrong hotel. They were from Wales in the UK. We had a small laugh together. Lots of Fitbit miles that day.

Our correct hotel was located adjacent to Retiro Park, the largest park in Madrid.

A mile and a half walk from the hotel through the park took us to the Prado Museum, considered to be one of the great

art museums in the world. A visit to the Prado was our top to-do item in Madrid.

In the park, there is a small lake where rowboats are rented. There had to be 200 boats on the lake with people rowing when we walked past. Also in the park, we visited an all-glass historical structure called ON LIFE AND the Crystal Palace on the LOVE AFTER 50 way to the Prado.

By Tom Blake My favorite painter is El Greco. There is an entire room devoted to him at the Prado, an El Greco-lover’s paradise. Goya, Velazquez, Rubens and other renowned world painters are featured at the museum as well.

Our second to-do item was to eat delicious paella. Twice, we ate paella at sidewalk restaurants in the Plaza Mayor, a well-known square in Madrid.

Greta and I love riding trains in Spain.

One day, we rode the Madrid Metro to the Chamartin train station and took the highspeed train to the ancient city of Segovia, a 30-minute ride.

The Roman-built aqueduct in the heart of Segovia is very impressive. Not far from there is the massive cathedral of Segovia, which by itself is worth the day-trip from Madrid. The cathedral has 27 chapels.

We marveled at how difficult building a structure that large and beautiful must have been in the 1500s.

On two of our Madrid days, we didn’t plan anything specific—no museums, cathedrals, castles, flea markets or art galleries. We just set out walking in different parts of this fascinating city.

We always came upon fun things to see and do. We walked down a busy street called the Gran Via, which has magnificent building architecture and all kinds of

(Left to right) Daisy and Scamper. Photos: Courtesy of Susan Brown Matsumoto Photography

Pets of the Week: Daisy and Scamper

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camper and Daisy came to The Ark after their owner entered assisted living and could no longer care for them.

Scamper is a handsome 10-yearold Maine Coon who was his owner’s whole life and was very loved. Scamper is front declawed and outgoing and curious, but also loves to be on a lap.

Daisy is a 7-year-old Lynx Point Siamese with beautiful blue eyes that will melt your heart. She is a little on the quieter side and just wants to be held and loved.

Both cats’ adoption fees have been sponsored by the caring friends of their previous owner.

shops, stores and restaurants.

On that day, we bought a Real Madrid football club jersey for me and a bota bag wine skin for us to take to the Dana Point outdoor summer concerts—filled with vino, of course. We didn’t even buy any ice cream that day, which is hard not to do in Europe, as ice cream is a local favorite.

In the streets of Madrid, you see lots of mimes posing motionless, dressed in some exoteric costume. Some are very original. But, these two, pictured below, in the crowded Plaza del Sol on a Saturday afternoon, took the cake—suspended in the air on a motorcycle. How in the heck did they pull that off?

Contact The Ark at 949.388.0034 or cat@arkofsanjuan.org to arrange a meeting. The cats can also be visited during store hours at the San Juan PetSmart and during adoption events on Wednesdays from 4-7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.

-2 p.m.

The Ark of San Juan is a volunteerbased 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that rescues adoptable animals in San Juan Capistrano and the surrounding area. The Ark is holding a fundraiser, Kocktails for Kittens, on May 21 at Marbella Country Club to raise money to save more kittens. For more information, visit www.arkofsanjuan.org. CD Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites at www.findingloveafter50.com; www.vicsta.com and www. travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com or email at 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.

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

GARAGE SALES CASITAS DEL RIO HOA COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Saturday, May 6, 2017.Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Corner of Camino Del Avion and Alipaz HAMPTON HILL HOA COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Saturday, May 6, 2017. Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Off of Del Obispo just south of Stonehill

16TH ANNUAL DANA KNOLLS COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE! Saturday, May 6th, 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Dana Knolls Neighborhood, Cross Streets: Del Obispo & Blue Fin Drive, follow the signs & shop till you drop! Sponsored by: Gary Macrides, REALTOR, 01267654 Surterre Properties. 949-370-6827

HELP WANTED DAILY HOUSEKEEPER WITH CAR Family in Laguna Niguel is looking for a experienced housekeeper to clean the house and laundry Monday-Friday 6:30am-11:30am.

Must have car and references. Start $12.00 per hour Please call Ramona (949) 235-1867 for an interview.

DANA POINT MARINA INN We are ramping up for summer and looking for service oriented persons. Full and part time shifts available - Flexible days and hours.

Job listings: *Front desk clerks *Reservation agents *Housekeeping supervisors (experience required) *Housekeepers *Porters *Breakfast room attendants *Maintenance *Painters. Great working environment - Paid vacations Apply in person. Dana Point Marina Inn, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, Ca 92629.

OTHER INTERESTING STUFF CHURCH IS SUCH A HASSLE Attend church this Sunday in a small town in Montana from the comfort of your own home, pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us this Sunday at 8:00AM or 10:00AM. www.bitterrootvalleycalvarychapel.com

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

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

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

949.388.7700 ext. 104

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

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

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

SERVICES 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

WANTED STAMPS! Buying large postage stamp collections. Nick. 619.672.0434 The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Preps Baseball Roundup: Tartans Proving They Belong

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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he St. Margaret’s baseball team entered the season with little to no fanfare. They had just 14 players on their opening day roster, several injuries to key players and were playing under the guidance of first-year head coach Scott Wallis.

Through 17 games, the Tartans are beginning to turn heads.

St. Margaret’s owns a 10-7 overall record and is 5-2 in Academy League play.

They cracked the CIF-SS Division 10 coaches poll for the first time this week, and a playoff spot is very much in reach.

The Tartans are sitting in third place in the league standings.

Seniors Logan Smith, Austin Locke and Brennan Campbell have helped power an offense that is averaging nearly eight runs a game. Smith leads the team with a .417 batting average and Locke and Campbell are both batting .378.

The team’s standout player of the season has been sophomore Alex Smith, according to Wallis. Smith, who bats leadoff and plays catcher, boasts an on-base percentage of .500.

Freshmen Roberto Gonzalez (.318 average) and Wes Kim (.342) have been a boost to the lineup.

With such a young roster, Wallis wanted to focus on team-building exercises that encouraged his players to compete every day. The coaching staff split the players into two separate teams at the outset of the year, and the two squads have been battling in a friendly rivalry ever since.

The Tartans chart every batting practice and set up a points system that awards “wins” to whichever intra-squad team does better on a given day. The Tartans also compete against each other in home run derby contests with sponge practice balls

and wiffle ball bats. The team with the most wins at the end of the season gets to go to an Angels game with the coaches.

“I’m competitive as a coach, and I’ll get fired up sometimes and I want them to reflect that in the way they practice and compete,” Wallis said. “(The competition) changed the personality of the team a bit when we started it.”

In other San Juan Capistrano baseball news: JSerra hosted some of the best programs in the Southland last week as part of the annual Boras Baseball Classic. The Lions went 1-2 at the tournament.

JSerra (11-10, 4-4 league) returned to Trinity League competition with a threegame series against Mater Dei this week.

The Lions lost to the Monarchs 10-8 on April 25, and won 8-3 on April 26. CD

Senior Austin Locke and the St. Margaret’s baseball team played a nonleague game in Angels Stadium on April 19. Photo: John Cole/proactionphoto.com

L to R: Rachel Hall, Lily Benjamin, Meg Roh and Gabby McCormic pose with their trophies won at the SSS State Championships in Oceanside. Photo: Courtesy

San Juan Hills Surf Team Shines at State Championships

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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he San Juan Hills High School girls surf team put on a display of grit, skill and versatility at the Scholastic Surf Series State Championship in Oceanside on April 23.

The four-member team had two surfers nursing nagging knee injuries, but they surfed exceptionally well in spite of it, bringing home a shortboard state title and a runner-up finish in longboard.

Senior Gabby McCormic and sophomore Rachel Hall entered the competition with lingering knee injuries, but when called upon by coach Nate Roberts, they delivered.

Hall was a member of the triumphant shortboard team and McCormic was a part of the second-place longboard group.

Junior Lily Benjamin and senior Meg Roh proved to be indispensable, as both surfers competed for the Stallions in both the shortboard and longboard disciplines.

Because they have such a small roster, the four surfers had to ride in both shortboard and longboard contests all season long. The Stallions’ girls team won the Capistrano Coast League championship and defeated

San Clemente in a nonleague contest for the first time in program history earlier in the season.

“They battled through adversity (at the state championships) and were able to win,” Roberts said. “It was a good testament to how hard my kids worked and how good they are.”

In years past, the Stallions have been the team to beat in the both the Capistrano Coast League and Section B of the state championships. San Juan Hills entered the competition as the No. 1 overall seed and were the four-time defending Section B State champs.

The boys team lost several impact surfers to graduation, but the girls’ squad was filled with surfers who know how to win.

In the shortboard contest, the San Juan Hills girls defeated Canyon Crest, Long Beach Wilson and San Marcos, the eventual overall team champion, to claim the top spot.

After a first-round bye, the longboard team defeated Cathedral Catholic in the first heat before falling to Aliso Niguel in the finals.

The longboard team missed out on claiming the first place trophy by 0.2 points, according to Roberts. CD

Warriors Swim Team Named CIF Academic Team Champions

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

he Saddleback Valley Christian boys swim team is used to racking up accolades and trophies in the water. But this season, the team is getting things done in the classroom as well.

The Warriors were recently named 2017 CIF Academic Team Champions

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The Capistrano Dispatch April 28-May 11, 2017

for small schools, where enrollment is 1,499 and below. The Warriors team currently boasts a cumulative GPA of 3.77, the top team mark for the more than 300 schools in the categor y.

For their efforts in the classroom, the Warriors team was honored alongside other Academic Team Champions during a pregame ceremony at Angels Stadium

on April 25.

Seven of the Warriors’ 18 swimmers posted GPA’s over 4.0 in the final semester. Team co-captains Rotimi Krya and Matthew Bergen led the way with 4.31 and 4.5 GPA’s, respectively.

The team is the second squad in school history to earn the honor, joining the 2009 girls volleyball team.

The Warriors’ girls swim team’s cumuPage 18

lative GPA placed fi fth overall in their category.

In the pool, the Warriors are gearing up for CIF-SS postseason competition. SVC does not belong to a league, but will be racing in the Freelance League Finals Invitational at Capistrano Valley High School on April 29 with the hopes of posting postseason qualifying times. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com