July 14, 2023

Paxton Adams, a 12-year-old San Juan Capistrano student, shows off a Monarch butterfly he caught on July 7.

Photo: Clara Helm

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TOP NEWS SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Water District Board Elects to Reexamine San Juan Utility Rates Following Outcry

BY COLLIN BREAUX

The Santa Margarita Water District Board of Directors unanimously chose to not impose proposed new utility rates for San Juan Capistrano customers that would have resulted in annual costs increasing by 288% for the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center.

During a meeting on Wednesday, July 12, the Board of Directors instead elected to continue discussions following protests over a rate study submitted by staff that recommended high increases for customers that used the least amount of water, which included the Shea Center.

The issue will be discussed again during an Aug. 2 meeting. A new rate study for San Juan, removing the fire meter component that drove up costs for affected customers, creating a citizen advisory group that would work with SMWD, and keeping the methodology for San Juan rates separate from other parts of SMWD’s customer area are all now on the table.

Approving portions of the existing study is also an option.

SMWD General Manager Dan Ferons said a new study could take up to 12 months.

“This rate study has been ongoing for over nine months already,” Ferons said. “I would say you’re looking at this time next year if you want to start a brandnew rate study with new principles and how we go about doing that.”

Laura Freese, a board member, San Juan resident, and former City Councilmember, said the commercial fire meter component needs to be looked at, and the impact from that on customers was not mentioned in the executive summary.

“I just have to say, getting ready for this meeting, I am getting more and more angry,” Freese said. “I’m really angry, because (with) the rate study—it follows the template, and it’s fine—but it’s not done with the people in mind. It’s done with legality in mind and water

in mind and not the people.”

Under the rates proposed by staff in the submitted study, the monthly charge would be $175.74 for a 3-inch meter; $274.29 for a 4-inch meter; $546.93 for a

Shea Center staff and volunteers spoke against the rate study and increases during the meeting. Administration for the Shea Center initially found out about additional costs during a May meeting with Freese and Ferons.

“It’s not a what. It’s the how. We agree that our water infrastructure needs to be improved. It’s the how,” Shea Center CEO Dana Butler-Moburg said. “It’s going to take a massive effort to help diffuse the dire impact that these rate increases will have not just on us, but on our friends and our neighbors and our colleagues.”

Other sites that would have been impacted by rate increases include the private schools Fairmont Schools and

COMMUNITY MEETINGS

MONDAY, JULY 17

Parks, Equestrian, and Community Services Commission

5:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Parks, Equestrian, and Community Services Commission will hold a regularly scheduled meeting open to the public. Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street. sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

CUSD Board of Trustees

7 p.m. The governing board for the Capistrano Unified School District will meet to decide on local education matters. CUSD Headquarters, 33122 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano. capousd.org.

FRIDAY, JULY 21

Coffee Chat

8:30 a.m. A town hall forum on community issues. The first Friday session of the month will be held virtually via Zoom video conference; all other Friday forums will take place in person at Hennessey’s Tavern in San Juan Capistrano, 31761 Camino Capistrano. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for information.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26

Learning English Class

10-11:30 a.m. The La Playa Center is hosting free English classes for adults on Wednesdays. Students will be provided materials and workbooks. La Sala Auditorium, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. crossculturalcouncil.com.

FRIDAY, JULY 28

6-inch meter; and $875.41 for an 8-inch meter as of Aug. 1. Meters 10 inches or longer would be charged $1,313.93 a month. The meters do not currently have any monthly costs.

One reason given for increased costs is years of deferred maintenance while water utilities were managed by the City of San Juan Capistrano. SMWD annexed the city’s water utilities in November 2021.

“I felt the frustration of watching the other City Councilmembers vote down helping our infrastructure in San Juan Capistrano,” Freese said. “That’s why we’re in the pickle we’re in now, where so much needs to be done.”

SMWD crews have been working to update water infrastructure throughout San Juan since the annexation.

The Shea Center, a nonprofit that helps clients with disabilities and mental health issues through horse riding, would have seen its annual water bill go up to $45,000 a year—compared to a previous annual cost of $15,000.

JSerra Catholic High School, both which are near the Shea Center.

“Should public officials advance a scheme that places a disproportionate burden on a very small number of customers, some of which are extremely vulnerable, related to a single factor of service—the fire meter services—and for which the district’s general manager questioned whether a particular customer could roust an expert who understands it enough to challenge it?” Fairmont COO Mary Jane Miller said.

San Juan water rates have not increased since 2018.

“San Juan has stayed flat, and all the costs to operate it have gone up,” Ferons said. “There is some work that has to be done that has to balance that out.”

Other factors presented by Ferons include costs for imported water— which makes up 70% of SMWD’s water supply—going up, along with inflation and cumulative cost increases over the past five years.

The next print issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

“The city, because of the way they were structured and what they were doing, they were depreciating the system at about $4 million a year and investing about $1 million a year,” Ferons said. “There were a lot of unfunded facilities that weren’t done. We’re in the mode of going through and looking at that.” Board President Frank Ury said whatever is done in terms of San Juan could impact other parts of SMWD’s service area.

Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Katrina Foley also spoke at the meeting and said SMWD should find alternatives to raising rates, because people are recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board of Directors said staff would reach out to Foley’s office for assistance as they work through the matter.

A fire meter is seen at the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center, as required by law. The meter would have cost the Shea Center an extra $30,000 for its water utility bill, under proposed new rates from the Santa Margarita Water District. Photo: Collin Breaux

A Young, Aspiring Scientist Takes Flight: Paxton Adams’ Exploration into World of Butterflies

BY CLARA HELM

On a hot day in July, many people enjoy their time on walking trails taking in the beautiful scenery. But some have a keen eye for the flora and fauna around them.

Paxton Adams wanders the Oso Creek Trail, butterfly net in hand, ready to swipe at the next sighting of a Monarch butterfly.

“Down the trail, there are a lot of purple bushes, and there is one bush in the sun where I always catch one or two (Monarch butterflies),” says Paxton, a 12-year-old San Juan Capistrano student.

“Usually when we go out on a good day, he spends a lot of time chasing them,” says Siobhan Adams, Paxton’s mom. “I think the record is seven (caught) in a day.”

Paxton can spot a butterfly from almost 10 feet away, at a point when it looks like a mere dot among the various flowers.

Not even a teen yet, Paxton has become a scholar of Monarch butterflies and identifies the disease known as Ophryocystis elektroscirrha—or OE, for short—in the insects.

SPARKING PAXTON’S RESEARCH

Paxton’s unique passion and knowledge of Monarch butterflies are supported by his parents, who take him often to Mission Viejo trails and parks to experience them. His little sister runs alongside him with her own net and helps him catch the fluttering butterflies.

He began his research with Monarch butterflies when an unusually large California migration of Painted Lady butterflies occurred in 2019. Because of their similar appearance, many Californians mistook the Painted Ladies for Monarchs, and Paxton became fascinated with researching the latter species.

When he was in third grade, Paxton brought his first butterfly into the classroom, giving his peers interesting facts about the insect. Every Friday after that, the young scientist-in-the-making brought in different species of butterflies on what was now deemed “Butterfly Friday.”

This year, he has even been invited by his elementary school teacher to talk to students about his research.

“I went back to my third-grade classroom, and I had a presentation to

the whole entire class where I talked to them about butterflies and gave them a Q&A at the end,” says Paxton.

Now in middle school, Paxton has finished an article he’s been writing on Monarch butterflies since 2020 and is expanding his interests in butterfly science. Never feeling that it’s finished to his satisfaction, Paxton continues to tweak the article and has given it to his middle school English teacher to edit.

His article covers topics such as the Monarch’s metamorphosis, migration, predators and other threats, population graphs and advice on how to help the species. It was also important for Paxton to include pictures of the Monarchs that he had taken himself, which make up most of the images.

Paxton has also been able to meet experts in the field because of the online circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“During COVID, a lot of the different butterfly festivals and other things went online, so Paxton actually did a few Zoom meetings, and he’d be the only kid, and it was all adults,” Siobhan explains. “So, he’s met some of the top people (in the field).”

Paxton has also met experts while catching the butterflies, notes Siobhan, such as an entomology professor. He’s had the challenge of balancing the writing of his article and his research with the activities of a sixth-grader.

“In the morning, I normally like to work on the article or before school … and on the weekend, I have more time,” says Paxton.

His family enjoys nature and being outdoors, so going to local parks and trails is a natural activity for them, and Paxton can easily explore to catch butterflies.

PAXTON’S RESEARCH WITH OE

In an unassuming ruled notebook, Paxton records his findings. After he catches the butterfly, he carefully holds them to note its sex, approximate wingspan, and the time, date and location it was caught. As a last step, he captures a sample from the butterfly’s scales to look for the OE disease.

To get the sample, Paxton presses a small piece of tape to the butterfly’s abdomen and then places the tape in his journal, where he will use a microscope to see if the sample is clear or infected. And just as quickly as the butterfly was caught, it is then released back into nature.

OE is a disease that can be reproduced inside the Monarch butterfly’s body, or survive without a host as spores in surrounding plants, such as milkweed. To explain how OE can affect butterflies, Paxton details the compounding results of the disease.

“So, if a butterfly has some (of the OE

bacteria), the next generation of that butterfly will have more, because it just keeps reproducing,” says Paxton. “And then by about the fourth generation, (the disease) kills all the butterflies originally infected by the one.”

The disease also spreads through the infected butterfly’s flight, as it distributes spores where it lands. Scientists and researchers have currently not figured out a way to fully get rid of the disease, Paxton clarifies, except for breeding “clear” (noninfected) butterflies.

There are periods, such as July, when Paxton’s samples are identified as majority-infected.

“It’s either they’re all infected or they’re all clear,” says Paxton. “It’s not normally half and half—either an infected day or clear day.”

While most would euthanize the infected butterflies, Paxton and his family do not have the heart to do so and keep them in an enclosure to live out the rest of their life while not infecting others.

“The population has been down for the Monarch butterfly a lot,” says Paxton. “So, in 2020, there are only like 2,000 Monarch butterflies left in the Western population, and that’s literally supposed to be over a million.”

EDUCATING THE PUBLIC

Once Paxton’s article made its way around to his middle school administrators, such as the ones who take care of the school grounds, Paxton was chosen to help set up a butterfly garden for the upcoming year.

But a challenge has been educating the public on how to correctly help Monarch butterflies, something he covers in his article.

“When people are trying to help Monarchs, there is not much available native

milkweed, so a lot of people buy something called tropical milkweed, which is manmade and grows all year round and never dies back in winter,” says Paxton.

This is an issue, Paxton explains, because if the plant does not die during the winter, the OE bacteria stays on the plant, which infects the butterflies more. The growth of the milkweed also affects the butterfly’s migration abilities, as they can feed on the plant in the winter.

Paxton’s study of how human actions can further the OE disease will hopefully help the butterfly environments around him thrive.

A MULTIFACETED KID

Paxton also participates in other activities outside his Monarch butterfly research. Dividing his time between mountain bike riding with his family, wrestling after school, checking the stock market, or collecting stray golf balls to resell, Paxton keeps himself busy.

While science—specifically, entomology—seems like the obvious path for Paxton, he notes several other interests he could see himself pursuing in the future, such as math, finance, and engineering.

For now, Paxton is considering continuing research with another species of butterflies or native insects.

The family’s typical park and trail walks have also connected them to the community nearby. Siobhan notes that many people have come up to the family because of the butterfly catching, allowing Paxton to share his passion.

“It’s neat, because he’ll be doing his thing, and people will ask what he is catching, and he ends up talking to a lot of people,” says Siobhan. “After a while, if we go enough, people will start knowing him as, like, the ‘butterfly kid.’ ”

Paxton Adams, a 12-year-old San Juan Capistrano student, is passionate about studying Monarch butterflies.

Photo: Clara Helm

Rolling Out The New Water Rates

IN 1996, VOTERS IN CALIFORNIA APPROVED

PROPOSITION 218 Voter Approval Requirement for Local Tax Increases Initiative. Prop 218 set down rules and processes for how local agencies may raise taxes and service rates. Essentially, water providers such as the Santa Margarita Water District may not charge rates more than the cost of providing water and maintaining infrastructure for ensuring reliable service. Those costs are identified through a rate study typically conducted by an outside, third-party.

After all the required studies, public notifications, and public hearings water rates may be set. Right now, the District is restructuring all water rates to better reflect actual usage and costs. When all is said and done, some residential customers will see smaller bills; those with more than the average number per household. Other residents will experience modest increases; some as much as $30 per month. These adjustments are designed to spread the costs more fairly among all San Juan Capistrano residents.

Your specific water rates will reflect the average use by residents in Single-family and Multi-family homes. Your household “water budget” is set for a default of four persons per household each using 55 gallons per day during a billing cycle. Variances are available for households with more than four people. This is described as Tier 1.

The Tier 1 estimate is converted from gallons to units of one hundred cubic feet (CCF) and appears as the Indoor Budget on your bill. Tier 2 includes a total of estimated indoor and outdoor usage (which can be equal to estimated indoor usage) and is shown as the Total Water Budget (TWB) on your bill. Tier 3 is up to 200% of the TWB; Tier 4 is above 200% of the TWB.

You can find more on our website at www.smwd.com, where you can find a water bill estimator.

‘La Havana Madrid’ to Bring Blend of Latin Music and Cultural Storytelling to Mission San Juan Capistrano

BY CLARA HELM

A summer filled with arts and theater ramps up as the South Coast Repertory (SCR) is set to bring the sounds of mambo and salsa to San Juan Capistrano in its production of La Havana Madrid.

The theater company is putting on the play in the picturesque and historic setting of Mission San Juan Capistrano’s Central Courtyard from July 15 to Aug. 4. All performances will start at 7:30 p.m. at 26801 Old Mission Road in San Juan Capistrano.

“La Havana Madrid promises an exceptional blend of live music and personal storytelling, all harmonizing with the stunning surroundings of Mission San Juan Capistrano,” David Ivers, SCR’s Artistic Director, said in a media release. “The characters, songs and narratives populating Sandra Delgado’s beautiful

Don Juan Mexican Kitchen + Bar Opens in Former Bueno Bueno Location

BY COLLIN BREAUX

Restaurateur Marcelo Rey was surrounded by family, friends, San Juan Capistrano community members, and small business advocates on June 28 in Downtown San Juan.

Rey celebrated the grand opening of his new restaurant, Don Juan Mexican Kitchen + Bar, at the former Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen on Verdugo Street. Rey purchased the restaurant space from Rob Quest, who also runs Sundried Tomato American Bistros & Catering around the corner, in September 2022.

“We’re trying to elevate the Mexican cuisine,” Rey said. “We have sea bass filet mignon, sea bass, a lot of different things—not typical Mexican food, but with a Mexican touch.”

Don Juan even has Mexican-style sushi.

“That’s going to be great,” Rey said. “I’m super-excited about this because of the quality of the food we have and the different style of food we have.”

The new restaurant has expanded the interior to make the restaurant space

adventure are born out of lived experiences.”

The play centers around a real-life legendary nightclub in Chicago, named La Havana Madrid, which was frequented by Latine immigrants in the 1960s. The club serves as a social center and refuge for the patrons, unfamiliar with their new environment, to dine, dance and find community.

Directed by Cheryl Lynn Bruce, the play stars the playwright of La Havana Madrid, Sandra Delgado as the nightclub’s singer/guide, as well as actors Eduardo Enrikez (Henry), Maria Jimena Gastelum (Maria), Cruz Gonzalez-Cadel (Myrna), Luis Herrera (Carlos), Marlene Martinez (Maruja), Roberto Antonio Martin (Tony), and Tristan Turner (Carpacho).

A Colombian American writer, actor, singer and producer, Delgado debuted her play in 2017, which had sold-out runs at top Chicago venues Steppenwolf and Goodman Theatre. Featured in the New York Times and CNN, the playwright garnered recognition for her ability to bring to life this once-forgotten part of Latine history and culture.

In an interview with SCR, Delgado expressed that although the play takes place in her hometown of Chicago, the universal experiences of immigrants and their following generations should also

resonate with California audiences.

The energy of mambo and salsa music being played live creates an immersive experience for viewers as they see the stories of Cuban, Colombian and Puerto Rican communities told with a personal lens, SCR said of the play.

“La Havana Madrid resonates joyfully with what makes us all part of a unique American community,” Ivers said in the release.

Founded in 1964 and located in Costa Mesa, SCR has put on more than 500 productions that have ranged from classic to modern plays and musicals. It is now recognized as one of the leading professional theaters in the United States, and SCR-developed works have garnered two Pulitzer Prizes and eight Pulitzer nominations, according to the group.

“South Coast Repertory is delighted to be returning to this beautiful, historic setting for another summer of theatre under the stars,” SCR’s Managing Director Paula Tomei said in the release. “Mission San Juan Capistrano’s commitment to community, culture and presenting vibrant programming to diverse audiences makes them once again, the perfect partner to join us in this engaging and lively production.”

This is the third summer that SCR is bringing an outside production to the Mission’s Central Courtyard. The staff

of the Mission expressed that this event will be an opportunity for those who attend to explore new experiences and uniquely experience award-winning theater.

This year’s production fits well in the setting of the Mission, which is filled with Native American, Spanish, Mexican and European heritage and history, noted Mission San Juan Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence-Adams.

“La Havana Madrid is the perfect production to be set within the aged corridors and architecture of old Mission San Juan Capistrano,” Lawrence-Adams said in the release. “South Coast Repertory’s masterful stage—designed to appear like the Mission itself—is an artful illusion that is just so fun to see. Audiences will be awed by the overall effect of the setting and (the) production caliber.”

This summer, the event will, for the first time, sell tables right next to the stage for $500. Not only do the tables offer a great view of the play, SCR said, they will come with light refreshments.

For those wishing to see the play in less expensive seats, the prices of reserved spots range from $35 to $50, and lawn seating is available for $20 to $35.

Single tickets may be purchased either online at scr.org or by phone at 714.708.5555. More information is available at scr.org.

more open. Don Juan also has a full bar, instead of Bueno Bueno’s focus on just being a tequila bar. A few tables have also been put in inside, ideal for a date night.

The previous concrete flooring and counter have been replaced with Italian-style tile. The wall coloring and lighting have also been redone to give the restaurant a darker ambience, and a fireplace has also been added.

“The main thing is location, location, location,” Rey said of the downtown spot. “I really love San Juan Capistrano. This location is amazing. My neighbors across the street are super-successful, and I would love to be involved with them.”

Rey’s loved ones and business supporters dropped by during the grand opening to congratulate him and sample Don Juan’s food. The occasion was also honored with a ribbon-cutting, during which representatives for local politicians and the City of San Juan Capistrano presented Rey with recognition awards.

“Your drinks and your food are amazing,” San Juan Chamber of Commerce

Board Member Daniele Smith said. “You are bringing much more of a vibrant lifestyle and food option down here to complement the rest of our businesses.”

Rey also owns Stella’s Italian in Dana Point. He lives in Laguna Niguel and emigrated to the United States from

Argentina about 30 years ago with $300 in his pocket.

“I was delivering the paper and working at Domino’s Pizza,” he said. “I can tell everybody to keep working hard and keep dreaming because, even in 2023, the American dream is still there.”

Orange County restaurateur Marcelo Rey is excited to offer a twist on Mexican cuisine with his new Don Juan restaurant in Downtown San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Collin Breaux

The San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition presents the 21st annual

VOLUNTEER NOW

We need in person and online volunteer reading tutors!

The Opportunity:

At Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano

SATURDAY AUGUST

TWO STEPPING UNDER THE STARS 5th

5:00 PM Gates Open & Dance Lessons

6:00 PM Event Starts

10:00 PM Event Ends

ADMISSION IS FREE!

Join us for a night of live music, the largest outdoor dance floor in Orange County, food trucks, a saloon, silent auction, opportunity drawings, and a fun zone for the kids!

Parking

$10- a car when purchased online in advance

$20- online the day-of event www.SJCEC.org for details

This is a no smoking, vaping, pets, lawn chairs, coolers, outside food/drink and no tailgating event

Thank you to our 2023 Sponsors!

Premier Presenting Sponsor Platinum Buckle Sponsor Host Sponsor

Gold Buckle Sponsors

Trails of Discovery

Silver Buckle Sponsors

Rancho Sierra Vista Equestrian Center, Bank of America Private Bank, Skye Ranch, Firner Equestrian, American Horse Products, Orange County Equine Veterinary Services, Kramer Orthopedics, Orange County Horse Show Association, Cuesta Construction, Fieldpiece Instruments, Inc., Diane Craig, DVM, DACVSVeterinary Surgical Specialists of Orange County, 5M Ranch and 5M Equine Performance Center

Bronze Buckle Sponsors

Tegan and Corey Tabor, VCS Environmental, Mission Equine Hospital, Las Vaqueras Riding Club, San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Center, Stone Creek Dressage, Equine Veterinary Associates Inc., Zone 4, Dr. Julie Ryan Johnson and Dr. Gary Johnson, Moe Architecture, Dana Smith Show Team, Dr. Sam and Kate Roth, Swallows Inn, Betsy & Ray King, Padre Junipero Serra Riders, Rancho Mission Viejo, The Shea Center, Gordon and Marsha Youde, Rio Vista Stables, Cinquini Insurance Services, Stephanie Frisch Insurance 101 Services, Farmers and Merchants Bank, Wildfire Mercantile, MG Group - Carrie Gilmore and Paige McDaniel, CVCA Cardiac Care for Pets, Ramblin’ Rogues Square Dance Club Mission Viejo

Copper Buckle Sponsors

The Oaks Equestrian Facility, Capistrano Ranch, Animal Magnetism, Reveal Equestrian, Shook, Hardy & Bacon L.L.P., In Concert Pilates, Kruse Feed and Supply, Vermeulen's Landscaping INC, DVM Management, Diane Harkey, Equivont, Tyra Hattersley and Jon Dibble, The Peppermint Pig Boutique

Volunteer tutors, age 50 and over

Share your wisdom, time, and love of reading.

Help young struggling readers 1st-5th grade achieve reading level proficiencies, and beyond.

All the training and on-going support is provided.

Currently recruiting for the 2023-2024 school year. Share the gift of reading and help change a child’s future!

Join an Information Session to learn more!

When: July 20, 2023 10:00-11:00am

Where: La Sala Auditorium

San Juan Capistrano Library

31495 El Camino Real San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

For Online Information Session Dates

Visit: www.parentisfoundation.org

Join us on Saturday, July 15th for the 2nd Annual Parentis Foundation Pickleball Classic For all details: www.parentisfoundation.org

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Addressing Unmet Needs in State Budget

As your assemblymember, I am committed to being a problem solver, which is why I proudly joined the Problem Solver’s Caucus in Sacramento.

This bipartisan group of legislators shares a common goal of finding practical and effective solutions to address the challenges in our state. While reviewing the new state budget unveiled by Gov. Newsom last month, it is evident there is room for improvement in accelerating housing construction, wildfire prevention, and protecting our beaches.

There was a lack of foresight in creating real incentives to speed up housing construction in California. This omission is particularly concerning, as homeownership becomes increasingly unattainable for Californians, especially young people, seniors and working families.

While there is much more to be done, I look forward to working with other leaders in our community to solve this issue.

The lack of streamlining for wildfire prevention projects is a matter of concern, especially for our communities in the 74th Assembly District. However, I take pride in having secured funding for the Orange County Fire Authority, to purchase equipment to combat wildfires.

Nevertheless, there is still more work to be done, and I believe we can make significant progress in addressing these challenges effectively.

The disregard for coastal and sand erosion programs is another letdown. Our beaches are vital for recreation, sea life, the environment, and our economy. With the creation of the bipartisan Coastal Caucus, I am working with my colleagues to spread the word on this critical issue

Letter to The Editor

AN ACT OF KINDNESS

LESLEY BIRDLOSS, San Clemente

Imagine my horror when I returned from a mountain bike ride in June to find my CamelBak pouch flapping open and my wallet gone. Credit card, driver’s license, money ... all lost somewhere in the hills above San Juan Capistrano. I retraced my route, but no luck. My heart

that expands far beyond just coastal Southern California.

I am pleased to see that both of my bills that tackle this issue have progressed in the State Senate, and I expect them to become law.

I am pleased with two key budget items relating to education.

There is funding that will go toward ensuring every school can purchase Narcan, ensuring the safety of our students amidst the ongoing battle against the fentanyl crisis.

Additionally, there is funding to ensure reciprocity for teachers who are spouses of servicemembers stationed in California. This measure not only addresses our teacher shortage, but also supports military families. It’s a win-win situation for all.

In local efforts, I recently wrote a letter to the California State Lands Commission in support of the San Clemente Sand Replenishment project, a partnership agreement between the City of San Clemente and the Army Corps of Engineers.

This project aims to place 250,000 cubic yards of sand on city beaches. While we continue working on long-term solutions to combat coastal erosion, the immediate commencement of sand replenishment is a vital first step. Also relating to coastal erosion, I recently wrote a letter supporting the Orange County Transportation Authority in their efforts to improve the rail infrastructure in south coastal Orange County. A pragmatic and fact-based approach is critical in protecting and enhancing our rail corridor. Through a compre -

sank as I prepared to have my bank account wiped out and my identity stolen.

Imagine my delight the next day when Aidan Falk knocked on my door and presented me with my intact wallet that he had found while running on the trails. This honest and caring young man took the time and trouble to drive all the way over to my house to return what he knew would be important to me.

More valuable than what I would have lost is the knowledge that there are young men out there who care about their community and step up without hesitation to do the right thing. A huge shout-out to Aidan for an

hensive study and collaboration with stakeholders, we can develop innovative solutions to address environmental impacts, prioritize safety, and foster regional connectivity. While I also submitted a letter in support of a longterm study looking at possible future movement of the tracks, this new effort will ensure we look at steps to take in the short- and medium-term while addressing concerns of all stakeholders.

Please be sure to keep an eye out for announcements related to my Community Coffees that I will be hosting in the upcoming weeks. I look forward to the opportunity to hear directly from you on issues that matter.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve. I am honored to represent you in the State Assembly.

Laurie Davies is a small business owner and former mayor who was elected to the State Assembly in 2020 and reelected in 2022. She represents the 74th Assembly District, which includes Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano in South Orange County—down through Camp Pendleton, and Oceanside, Vista and part of Fallbrook in North San Diego County. CD

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The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 21, Issue 13. The Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (sanclementetimes. com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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 Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

LAURIE’S LATEST BY LAURIE DAVIES

GUEST OPINION | Laurie’s Latest by Assemblymember Laurie Davies

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

FRIDAY | 14

FARMERS MARKET IN SAN JUAN

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Enjoy the farmers market in town every Friday. Check out the produce, breads, cheeses, artisan craft vendors, and more. Farmakis Farms, 29932 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.364.1270. farmakisfarms.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT TREVOR’S

7 p.m. Kai Kalama will perform. Enjoy the entertainment on the outdoor patio while you chow down on food and sip drinks. Trevor’s at the Tracks, 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.9593. trevorsatthetracks.com.

LIVE THEATER AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE

7:30 p.m. Watch a live performance of the raunchy puppet musical comedy Avenue Q at San Juan Capistrano’s local theater. The show contains adult language and themes and is not recommended for children. Showings will continue through July 30. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

SATURDAY | 15

SAN CLEMENTE OCEAN GAMES

7 a.m. The San Clemente Ocean Games, located north of the San Clemente Pier, is a series of ocean competitions comprising three main competitive events: Lifeguard Events, Junior Lifeguard Events, and Open Events. The event will also include a Water Rescue Demo performed by San Clemente Marine Safety and a pancake breakfast hosted by Orange County Fire Authority. Competitions will run throughout the day, starting with the Open 5K Beach Run at 7 a.m., and will culminate with an awards ceremony at 5 p.m. San Clemente Pier, 622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.361.8264. san-clemente.org.

Editor’s Pick

SATURDAY | 15: OUTDOOR THEATER AT LOS RIOS PARK

2 and 3 p.m. Enjoy a live performance in one of California’s oldest areas when the Round About Players present The Capistrano Rainmaker in the Los Rios Historic District. The 15-minute play is based on local history. Plays are underwritten by The Alliance for San Juan Arts, with sponsors that include Trevor’s at the Tracks and the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association. The cast comprises Kathryn Fischer, Gary McCarver, Kenneth Phuong, Mark Schwartz, and Rachel Trant. Local fixtures Tom Scott, Beverly Blake, and Gary McCarver are producing, and McCarver also wrote the play. The event is free, so check it out while you’re strolling about. Additional shows will be held throughout July. Los Rios Park, 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano.

BERRY U-PICK

9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The Ecology Center is providing a chance to pick fresh berries. While baskets will be provided, participants are also welcome to bring their own. After you finish collecting a harvest, head over to the Farm Stand to pay for what you picked. Cost to attend is $8. The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.443.4223. theecologycenter.org.

OUTDOOR THEATER AT THE MISSION

7:30 p.m. Bring a lawn chair, blanket and light jacket for this nighttime staging of La Havana Madrid by South Coast Repertory. The performance depicts Latino immigrants dancing and finding community at a Chicago nightclub in the 1960s. Tickets can be purchased online. Performances run through Aug.

4. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 714.708.5555. scr.org.

CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE

8 p.m. Enjoy some rollicking sounds over dinner at this intimate and popular South Orange County venue. Pink Floyd tribute act Shine On will perform. Tickets are $30. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

SUNDAY | 16

LIVE MUSIC AT SAN JUAN HILLS GOLF CLUB

4-7 p.m. Nicole Rose Wilkins will perform. Stop in to listen and dance, perhaps after playing a round of golf. San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.565.4855. sanjuanhillsgolf.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT PADDY’S

5-8 p.m. Listen to some live music and dance, perhaps after enjoying fish and chips and a pint. Leroy & The Bad Browns will perform. Paddy’s Station, 26701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.3400. paddysstation.com.

MONDAY | 17

BRIDGE GAME

12:30 p.m. The South Orange County Bridge Club hosts bridge games, Monday through Saturday. The club is a nonprofit owned by the members and welcomes people to use their minds and develop new friendships. They also offer classes for bridge players of different levels. 31461 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite 205, San Juan Capistrano. galesenter@cox.net.

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TUESDAY | 18

STORYTIME AT THE SJC LIBRARY

10:30-11 a.m. Bring the kids to storytime, held every Tuesday morning. Children will get to read books and sing songs. The event is geared for the 2- to 6-yearold age range. San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1752. ocpl.org.

SHARKS AFTER DARK

6-9 p.m. Join the Ocean Institute to learn more about the ocean’s apex predators, bioluminescence and more every Tuesday through August. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. oceaninstitute.org.

WEDNESDAY | 19

SAN JUAN SUMMER NITES CONCERT

6-8 p.m. The free outdoor concert series presented by the City of San Juan Capistrano is back on this year. Cover band Flashback Heart Attack will perform. Bring a lawn chair and blanket to relax while you enjoy the music in downtown San Juan. There will also be food trucks, adult beverages for sale, and booths featuring local businesses and groups. A free trolley service will run on concert days from 4-9 p.m. Historic Town Center Park, 31872 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE BREWHOUSE

6:30-8:30 p.m. The BrewHouse hosts a trivia night every Wednesday. Test your knowledge with friends or show up solo and join a team. The BrewHouse, 31896 Plaza Drive, Suite D3, San Juan Capistrano. 949.481.6181. brewhousesjc.com.

MONDAY | 24

NATURE ARTIST FAMILY PROGRAM

10-11 a.m. Parents are welcome to bring their kids to make outdoor-themed art using natural and recycled materials. Children can create drawings of turtles, grass, and other eco-friendly topics. The program is presented by The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission and openhouse style with self-guided activities. Ladera Ranch Library, 29551 Sienna Pkwy, Ladera Ranch. 949.234.5940. thenaturereserve.org.

The Round About Players are staging free and short theatrical performances at Los Rios Park this summer.

Photo: Collin Breaux

AT THE MOVIES

‘Asteroid City’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

As Wes Anderson fans and movie viewers have noticed, the man is at a point in his career where his ambition has no limits, and he’s not afraid to take full advantage of his resources.

He succeeded in creating an epic period dramedy with The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014), then stumbled a bit with the retro anthology The French Dispatch (2021). Now, he returns with another star-studded cast in a pastiche of mid20th century whimsy with Asteroid City.

The story mainly revolves around Augie Steenbeck (Jason Schwartzman), a war photographer and single father of four kids, and Midge Campbell (Scarlett Johansson), a movie star with a 15-yearold daughter, Dinah (Grace Edwards).

They’re all stuck in “Asteroid City,” a fictional city in Nevada, while Dinah and Augie’s teenage son, Woodrow (Jake Ryan), compete in the Junior Stargazer Awards for kids involved with astronomy.

During the convention, a real alien encounter becomes eminent and government agents are revealed to be se -

cretly operating behind the motel where the characters are staying.

Various supporting roles include Augie’s father-inlaw, Stanley (Tom Hanks), Junior Stargazer host Gen. Grif Gibson (Jeffrey Wright), local scientist Dr. Hickenlooper (Tilda Swinton), schoolteacher June Douglas (Maya Hawke), cowboy Montana (Rupert Friend) and Steve Carell as the motel manager.

What isn’t included in Asteroid City’s marketing is that the desert and sci-fi elements of the movie are actually an old-school teleplay being played out by actors and a TV crew in 1955.

Edward Norton, Adrien Brody, Bryan Cranston and Margot Robbie make appearances during these behind-thescenes sequences, which are cleverly subverted in black-and-white cinematography, while the TV plot scenes are in color.

What else can you say about a quality Wes Anderson flick at this point? While his latest efforts can feel a bit bloated,

especially compared to his modest roots of Bottle Rocket (1996) and Rushmore (1998), he has really mastered the art of coining multi-layered colorful personalities. He’s now openly prioritizing atmosphere and character/performance over plot, and that isn’t always bad.

Asteroid City is a tongue-in-cheek, non-linear satire on his own industry while also paying homage, like usual. It’s nice to see his longtime regular actor,

Schwartzman, take the lead again, and Johansson fits in quite nicely in Anderson’s twee world.

Though I think there were aspects in the film that could have been expanded more—such as the desert going under quarantine being reminiscent of the real COVID-19 quarantine three years ago—Asteroid City is near-perfect eye candy for those who appreciate the cinema of Anderson. CD

Photo: Courtesy of Pop. 87 Productions / Focus Features

GUEST OPINION | Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

THE HISTORY OF JUDGE RICHARD EGAN, PART 3

Editor’s note: This is the conclusion of a multi-part series.

When the telegraph came to San Juan Capistrano, Judge Richard Egan became the town telegraph operator, because he spoke both English and Spanish. He quickly learned Morse code. Being town telegrapher would have a downside.

Egan remained a bachelor his entire life, but not for trying. The love of his life was a young girl he first saw at the Mission, Mollie Sheean. Sheean was called the “Belle of San Juan Capistrano,” as she attended many of the parties at his home, Harmony Hall, escorted by Egan. According to Egan biographer Ellen Lee, “Earlier, Mollie had left a suitor named Peter Ronan of Montana from where the family had come. One day, Egan received a wire for Mollie.”

“It was from Ronan, who wanted to visit her in San Juan Capistrano. Egan carried the message to Mollie,” Lee continued. “Mollie was confused about what to do, but she finally told Egan to wire Ronan back and ask him to come to San Juan Capistrano, and so Egan tapped out the telegram that spelled the end of his romance.”

Mollie married Ronan at the old

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION:

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

Mission, rode off to San Diego on her honeymoon, and returned to Montana. She and Peter had nine children.

quent public service. He served 40 years as clerk of the school board in San Juan Capistrano. He served as supervisor of Los Angeles County from 1880-1884.”

Father John O’Sullivan arrived in 1910. Egan passed away on February 9, 1923, from hardening of the arteries. He was found on the floor of his home, Harmony Hall, by Henry Vanderleck, owner of the restaurant across the street and where Egan was expected for his noon meal.

BY JAN SIEGEL

In her diary, Mollie wrote, “Richard Egan, soldier, scholar, judge, great-hearted gentleman, was my friend for fifty-four years. He stood by my father through all his struggles in San Juan Capistrano—the lingering illness and death of my stepmother, the cruel accident which made necessary the amputation of my father’s right arm, in other crises of which I cannot bear to write.”

“He was with my father during his last hours, drew up his will and settled his earthly affairs,” Mollie continued. “For thirty-five years, he tended the plot in the old Mexican cemetery on the hill where he was at rest.”

The current Old Mission Cemetery is the property that the Sheeans owned.

The Santa Ana Register reported that “during his life, Egan was called to fre -

“When Orange County formed in 1889, he served on the commission for the adjustment of disputed claims between the two counties,” The Santa Ana Register reported. “He procured most of the right of way for the Santa Fe Railroad for its Los Angeles to San Diego branch and for years was a director for the company operating that section of the railroad. He was a member of the Orange County highway commission.”

Egan and Marco Forster were concerned that the influx of tourists would add to the neglect of the Mission grounds. In 1892, Egan was appointed to the first Southern California committee formed to help repair some of the damage to Mission grounds.

Egan did much of the restoration work himself and, in 1895, he was financed by the Landmark Club of Los Angeles for his efforts. Charles Lummis, founder of the Landmark Club, called Egan “a whole construction force in himself.” Egan continued helping restore the Mission when

San Juan Capistrano is extremely fortunate that Richard Egan chose this community for his home. You can spend a “Moment in Time” by visiting Ellie’s Table, the site of the Egan House on Camino Capistrano, and share, as Ellen Lee states, “a picturesque reminder of the Irish alcalde, one of Orange County’s most colorful pioneers.”

Jan Siegel was a 33-year resident of San Juan Capistrano and now resides in the neighboring town of Rancho Mission Viejo. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 13 years, has been a volunteer guide for the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library’s architectural walking tour for 26 years and is currently the museum curator for the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. She was named Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The 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 Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch .com.

Perry is a 1½-year-old Jindo who is ready for a new start. Initially brought to the shelter as a frightened pup, Perry has finally blossomed into a sweet and loving dog. Fun-loving and full of playful energy, he loves making friends with all the other shelter dogs. Perry is looking for a home with dog-savvy adults.

If you are interested in adopting Perry, please visit petprojectfoundation.org/adoptions/ to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to animalservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment.

Sudoku- medium- by Myles Mellor

What’s Happening: Seen in the Community

Choco, a therapy horse at the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center, retired on June 7. The Shea Center hosted a ceremony for Choco, who got to enjoy pets from visitors and reuniting with the Orange County Fire Authority, who rescued him from a trail in 2021. Photo: Courtesy of The Shea Center.

San Juan Capistrano Community Celebrates Fourth of July with Carnival

TEXT BY COLLIN BREAUX, PHOTOS BY ALAN GIBBY

The annual Fourth of July carnival was held from July 1-4 at the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park. View more photos at thecapistranodispatch.com.

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

LIONS LINE DRIVES

Hedges, Lewis lead robust crop of JSerra alumni in pro baseball

BY ZACH CAVANAGH

As major and minor league baseball eye the second half of their seasons coming out of the All-Star break, let’s check in on some of the many JSerra Catholic High School graduates in pro baseball:

AUSTIN HEDGES

In his ninth season in the major leagues, Hedges is the longest-tenured big-league Lion. After a long stint with the San Diego Padres upon being drafted in the second round in 2011 and two-plus years with Cleveland, the 30-year-old catcher is in his first season with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

In 59 games, Hedges is hitting .179 with 14 RBIs and a home run with 26 runners caught stealing and 56 defensive assists.

ROYCE LEWIS

The 2017 No. 1 overall pick of the Minnesota Twins is now an established

major league presence after recovering from his second ACL surgery.

Lewis is hitting .326 with 15 RBI and four home runs in 26 games, while helping turn seven double plays and racking up 35 defensive assists from third base.

The 24-year-old is currently on the 10-day injured list nursing a left oblique strain.

LIONS IN TRIPLE-A

Davis Wendzel (Class of 2016) is hitting .249 with 46 RBIs and 17 home runs in 76 games for the Round Rock Express. The 26-year-old shortstop was selected 41st overall by the Texas Rangers out of Baylor in 2019.

Chase Strumpf (2016) is hitting .180 with 19 RBIs and six home runs in 29 games for the Iowa Cubs. The 25-yearold second baseman also drove in 21 runs with seven home runs in 37 games with the Double-A Tennessee Smokies. Strumpf was drafted in the second round by the Chicago Cubs out of UCLA in 2019.

Micah Pries (2016) is hitting .241 with 31 RBI and 11 home runs in 81 games for the Columbus Clippers. The 25-year-old first baseman was drafted in the 13th

round by Cleveland in 2019 out of Point Loma Nazarene. His brother, Jake Pries, (2015) officially retired from the Single-A Tampa Tarpons last October.

OTHER LIONS IN PRO BALL

Eric Silva (2021) moved back down to rookie ball last week after 15 games with the High-A Eugene Emeralds, where he posted a 5.66 ERA over 49 1/3 innings. The 20-year-old right-hander was drafted in the fourth round by the San Francisco Giants in 2021.

Tyler Gough (2022) has posted a 6.11 ERA over 28 innings in eight starts with 22 strikeouts and a 1-3 record for the Single-A Modesto Nuts. Gough was drafted in the ninth round last season by the Seattle Mariners.

Michael Curialle (2019) is hitting .278 with 37 RBIs, 44 runs scored, 39 walks and five stolen bases in 44 games for the Single-A Palm Beach Cardinals. The 22-year-old third baseman was drafted in the 12th round by the St. Louis Cardinals out of UCLA last year.

Blake Klassen (2019) was recently promoted from rookie ball to the Single-A Fredericksburg Nationals. In seven games, the 22-year-old first baseman has scored two runs on four hits with two walks. Klassen was drafted last year in the 17th round by the Washington Nationals out of UC Santa Barbara. CD

Austin Hedges, Class of 2011, is in his ninth major league season and his first with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Photo Courtesy of Pittsburgh Pirates

Royce Lewis, Class of 2017, is back after his second ACL surgery and proving his worth as a former No. 1 overall pick of the Minnesota Twins. Photo Courtesy of Minnesota Twins

THE COACH HOUSE

PEARL