September 10, 2021

SEPTEMBER 10-23, 2021 | VOLUME 19, ISSUE 17

INSIDE:

Finding Inspiration at Mission San Juan Capistrano SOAPBOX/PAGE 13

RMV Receives Fire Safety Recognition EYE ON RMV/PAGE 8

20 Years Later

San Juan Capistrano, Howard Hart, and Nation Reflect on Events and Impact of 9/11 E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 3

An American flag is on display at Patriot Hill in San Juan Capistrano and was placed there after 9/11, in remembrance of the attacks. Photo: Collin Breaux

thecapistranodispatch.com

Ridland Helps Guide U.S. Equestrian Team to Silver Medal

Mission Gala Honors Longtime Supporters

Editor’s Pick: San Juan Summer Nites

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 4

GETTING OUT/PAGE 14

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

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EYE ON SJC

What’s Up With...

TOP NEWS SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Retired Navy Captain Howard Hart Recalls Personal Experiences on 9/11

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Howard Hart was at the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001.

Hart was serving in the Navy as an intelligence officer at the time and started off the day working in his office in Arlington, Virginia, as usual. There was nothing unusual yet about the date.

“The day started in Arlington, like it did in New York City,” said Hart, who has since retired from the Navy and is now a San Juan Capistrano councilmember. “It was a pleasant day—not a cloud in the sky.”

That was not to remain.

Hart was soon told about the initial attacks on the World Trade Center—he didn’t have a television in his office, because the room was new and hadn’t yet been cleared for one by the National Security Agency.

Hart turned to the guy next to him and said he was surprised the attackers hadn’t gotten to the Pentagon.

It was while processing paperwork for his job that he then heard a sound that resembled that of a car crash—as Hart remembers it, the loudest one you could ever hear.

“It’s a sound I’ll never forget,” he said.

Hart remembers seeing smoke and other servicemembers looking at him.

An alarm began sounding. A second airplane—American Airlines Flight 77—was deliberately flown into the Pentagon.

Hart and others were ordered to evacuate, so they headed to the parking lot and under a nearby interstate highway, where personnel regrouped. He lost 14 friends that morning.

“I didn’t know how close I had come to being killed,” Hart said. “I saw all the people I was going to meet with were killed.”

Hart was eventually able to contact his boss, then-wife, and others to check in.

The next day, he went back to his office while accompanied by an FBI officer to retrieve the intelligence in his office.

Whenever Hart is back around the Pentagon in Arlington, he visits the 9/11 memorial there to remember those killed. He eventually got to know the families of the friends he lost.

Asked for what’s on his mind now during the 20th anniversary of the attacks, Hart brought up the recent withdrawal from Afghanistan—which he declined to comment on at length, out of respect for his military colleagues.

Hart did say while it might be easier to claim America should not have gone there in the first place, he remembers the mood after 9/11 and initial disappointment when Osama bin Laden wasn’t captured right away.

“I wish we had a different result in Afghanistan,” Hart said.

Team USA earned a silver medal in the recent Olympic horse jumping competition, with some help from Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland. Photo: Collin Breaux

Robert Ridland Helps Guide U.S. Team to Silver Medal in Horse Jumping

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Though a month has passed since the U.S. show jumping team captured the silver medal at the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo, the accomplishment still hasn’t fully set in for Robert Ridland.

Ridland is the Chef d’Equipe for the U.S. team—a role that essentially equates to a coach or team manager. He is wellknown in the San Juan Capistrano equestrian community as an executive with Blenheim Facility Management, which currently operates the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park off Ortega Highway. The competition was held in August.

“I’ve coached the team for nine years now, and not gone in as the favorite to end up on the podium. We knew we had a good shot of an upset,” Ridland said.

“We had an entirely different set of horses going in this time. Two of the riders were the same.”

The U.S. team had “great veteran riders” heading into the Tokyo games, Ridland said. The U.S. team consisted of Laura Kraut riding Baloutinue, Jessica Springsteen riding Don Juan van de Donkhoeve, and McLain Ward riding Contagious.

The Swedish team won the gold, and the team from Belgium picked up the bronze.

“We had a strategy that was a little bit different from the other teams,” Ridland said. “The weather in Tokyo was a factor—92 degrees every day and 80% humidity, even though the event was held at night.”

The U.S. team had competed against Sweden before. One of the Swedish riders beat the U.S. team “just barely” on cumulative time in Tokyo, Ridland said.

CUSD Announces Modified Health Guidelines as Pandemic Continues

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Though the COVID-19 pandemic is still happening, Capistrano Unified School District students who show no symptoms of the virus can continue attending classes in-person, CUSD announced on Friday, Aug. 27.

Under modified safety regulations that went into effect on Monday, Aug. 30, unvaccinated students who were within 6 feet of someone who tested positive can remain on campus if they show no symptoms, wear masks indoors, and if the person who tested positive was also masked indoors.

Masks are required to be worn indoors at CUSD campuses by children and adults, per California Department of PubThe Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

lic Health regulations.

If no masks were worn indoors, students must stay home for a minimum of seven days, though they are permitted to return if they test negative after the fifth day.

Students in close contact with someone who tests positive must also not be involved with extracurricular activities, sports, or clubs outside the typical school day.

Fully vaccinated students do not have to stay home if they do not display symptoms. Students who test positive must stay home for 10 days.

“Students who may not attend school (Cont. on page 4) Page 3

“It was an amazing event,” Ridland said. “It’s the second consecutive silver medal for the U.S. team. We were also the silver medalists in Rio (de Janeiro in 2016).”

One of the riders for the team that competed in Rio actually won their first Grand Prix at the RMV riding park.

Getting a horse and rider combination ready for the Olympics takes years of work, Ridland said. Riders have to be experienced, though the U.S. team had young riders.

“We had one this time: Jessica Springsteen (daughter of rock star Bruce Springsteen). She’s been a professional rider— even though she’s in her 20s—for the last 10 years or so,” Ridland said. “It takes just an unbelievable amount of experience from the rider’s point of view, and then the riders have to mesh together.”

A celebration for the team’s silver medal was held at the riding park on Aug. 21. Though coaches usually don’t usually get an actual medal, Ridland briefly borrowed the silver medal from Kraut so he could display it back in South Orange County.

“I brought that medal to (the celebration) just so anybody that wanted to see it could see it,” Ridland said. “Kids and adults were lined up. Mostly they wanted to hold the medal.”

Ridland is still enjoying the euphoria that comes with the recent medal win.

“I’m liking where I am,” Ridland said.

“It was so exciting. It got huge coverage on NBC. So many people actually got up at 3 in the morning to watch it live. It’s great for our sport.” thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Mission Gala Honors Longtime Supporters

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

After Connie Spenuzza used to drop off her children at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in the early 1990s, she stopped at Mission San Juan Capistrano to say her prayers and visit the Serra Chapel.

“It became a ritual, and you realize how important it is—on a spiritual level—to honor those places, because they do provide us tremendous comfort … especially in a time of need,” Spenuzza said.

Spenuzza is Roman Catholic and lives in Dana Point with her husband, Peter Spenuzza. The couple has lived in the area for more than 30 years and are longtime supporters of the Mission. Connie has been on the Preservation Foundation Board of Directors for 15 years.

She eventually met Mission Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence Adams and other Mission officials during her visits to the site, and they encouraged her to get involved behind the scenes.

“Mechelle just struck me as someone who was really going to transform the Mission for the good,” Spenuzza said. “It’s always been a beautiful place. It’s been there for as long as we can recall.”

Connie and Peter Spenuzza will be honored at the Romance of the Mission benefit gala on Sept. 17. The sold-out event will be held on the historic grounds and is returning after a hiatus.

“Following the disappointing cancellations of our 2020 events, the Mission’s Board of Directors is thrilled that the gala will resume to generate awareness and replenish important Mission preservation efforts,” Adams said. “The gala is also an opportunity to recognize the many angels among us—like Connie and Peter Spenuzza—who helped get us through this past year, reopen the Mission twice in less than 12 months, and allow the Mission to rise up and serve our community in new and meaningful ways.”

Singer Loren Allred will perform at the gala.

Spenuzza fondly remembers her first

(Cont. from page 3) because they are quarantining will be on short-term independent study, which does not include daily live instruction,” the district guidelines said. “However, they will have access to all curricula and assignments through Canvas. Any student who is ill will not be required to complete their work until they are feeling better.”

Free COVID-19 self-testing kits for students are available at all school sites, and students can administer them at home.

The new guidelines come as cases are The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

Longtime Mission San Juan Capistrano supporters Peter and Connie Spenuzza will be honored at the Romance of the Mission benefit gala on Sept. 17. Photo: Lisa Renee Baker

gala in the 2000s after she had joined the Preservation Foundation Board and began donating to the Mission, when the couple took photos with past honorees.

“It feels good. It feels like history,” Spenuzza said of her turn at being recognized. “It’s been a wonderful thing. We’ve lived here long enough, and we’ve loved the Mission long enough, and it’s nice to

get a thank you. We’re grateful.”

Spenuzza is also excited to finally see other Mission supporters and friends in-person again after the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to some gatherings.

She expects the Mission to again look beautiful for the event.

“It’s quintessential early California.

The lighting is gorgeous,” Spenuzza said.

“People are happy. The food is great.”

Connie and Peter Spenuzza have been married for 42 years. Their two sons are now in their 30s and live in Newport Beach.

“We feel very much in touch with the nature and beauty of South Orange County,” Spenuzza said. “We all just love the ocean, breezes, and friendships. We feel very grateful we found our place.”

present at local schools. The school year kicked off on Aug. 17. As of Wednesday, Sept. 8, there were more than 30 schools listed as having at least one confirmed case.

San Clemente High and Dana Hills High reported five cases each in the latest reporting period, according to CUSD’s online dashboard of confirmed cases.

(Previously, SCHS and DHHS had reported 11 and 12 active cases, respectively.) SCHS has 3,064 students enrolled for in-person instruction, while DHHS has 2,182 students enrolled.

Cases on the dashboard remain there for

14 days from initial symptoms or test date.

Among San Clemente’s other schools, there was one case at Bernice Ayer Middle School in the latest reporting period; one at Las Palmas Elementary School; and three at Truman Benedict Middle School.

In Dana Point, there were seven cases at Palisades Elementary School.

And in San Juan Capistrano, there were two cases at Marco Forster Middle School in the latest reporting period; two at San Juan Elementary School; three at San Juan Hills High School; and two at Wagon Wheel Elementary School.

In Rancho Mission Viejo, there was one case at Esencia K-8.

In schools whose boundaries include those cities, there were seven cases at Capistrano Valley High School; two at Moulton Elementary School; three at Niguel Hills Middle School; and eight at Tesoro High School.

Those figures represented an increase from case numbers in early June, when only Vista Del Mar Elementary School and Niguel Hills Middle School had one case each, and a slight decrease from case numbers on Aug 31.

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EYE ON SJC

City Facilitates Barn Construction Through Code Amendment

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Developer Dan Almquist, owner of Zoomars at River Street Ranch, wants to build a barn that’s higher than the limit previously set by code regulations for a specific portion of the Los Rios Historic District—which led to a review by city staff, and an eventual code amendment.

The San Juan Capistrano City Council approved the requested amendment during a meeting on Tuesday, Sept.

7. The council voted, 3-0, to allow the amendment. Councilmembers Troy Bourne, Howard Hart, and Sergio Farias voted yes. Mayor John Taylor recused himself since he lives in the area, and Mayor Pro Tem Derek Reeve was not at the meeting.

Under regulations set forth by the Los Rios Historic Plan, the maximum height for buildings in the area’s Historic Commercial District was set at 15 feet.

Almquist requested the limit be amended to 30 feet.

The Historic Commercial District was comprised of three areas—a city-owned portion of Los Rios Park, Zoomars, and resident and attorney Stephen Rios’ property. As part of the code amendment, the city-owned portion of the park is no longer designated as part of the Historic Commercial District, and the entire park is now part of the designated Park District.

A variance request was not made since city staff felt it did not meet the spirit of such a request. City Attorney Jeff Ballinger also said variance is a legal issue, since one requirement for such in California is finding a property owner who is attempting to use property in ways similar to other properties in a zoning district.

“There really isn’t another example of another property owner in that zoning district who’s building a 30-foot-tall building,” Ballinger said.

Though Bourne raised concerns about the amendment potentially paving the way for the construction of other high-standing structures in Los Rios, such development is prohibited, because a maximum limit on such set under current regulations has already been reached with the barn. Bourne said he was not against the barn itself.

Almquist requested the council initiate a code amendment study in June.

The accommodation had been approved by other city committees before Tuesday’s meeting.

Permitted uses in the Historic Commercial District include retail sales; non-retail uses such as greenhouses, crops, and tree farming; equestrian-ori-

Public art is becoming more visible in San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Courtesy of The Alliance for San Juan Art

Public Art Advocates Celebrate Decorated Utility Box

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A utility box near Camino Capistrano and Trader Joe’s in San Juan Capistrano has been “wrapped” with Los Rios Historic District-themed art—which The Alliance for San Juan Art (TASJA) is pleased to see.

“Art in the Public Square is beginning to be noticeable in San Juan Capistrano,” TASJA spokesperson Tina Ann said.

“Utility boxes around the globe are being painted or wrapped by local artists associations. Our neighboring cities of Dana Point and San Clemente have extensive programs that have resulted in colorful and interesting artwork on The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

many of the traffic signal and other utility boxes.”

TASJA is working to bring similar programs to San Juan. The organization is a nonprofit recently formed by resident Rich Heimann, who has frequently spoken at public forums about his desire to see more public art in San Juan in the hope it could draw more visitors and revenue for the area.

Art pieces such as the decorated utility boxes can also be conversation starters and deter graffiti, Ann said. The artistic wrapping was done in early August after Heimann noticed the box and discovered it was essentially abandoned, and decorative art was made possible through a grant.

“TASJA is continuing to work with the city to wrap more utility boxes, whether they be city or privately owned, and looks forward to such approval,” Ann said.

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ented uses such as a feed store and saddlery shop; and picnicking and arts and craft workshops.

Douglas Dumhart spoke at the meeting on behalf of Almquist—who was not physically in the council chambers— and said the barn would be built on the west side of the Zoomars property in order to clean up the mini-farm and raise the quality of the petting zoo experience to match River Street Marketplace, an upcoming agrarian-themed retail center in the area that Almquist is also overseeing.

“As you know, at the back of the property, there’s about three storage sheds, an RV used as a caretaker’s unit, and a shed,” Dumhart said. “All that would go away in lieu of this new proposed barn.”

Almquist eventually called in to comment, saying he had no desire to sell the property.

“We just put a ton of money into restoring Zoomars, and there’s a bunch of constraints that would prevent us from ever doing anything,” Almquist said. “We have every intention of doing things the right way. There’s never going to be a two-story shopping mall on that property or whatever else.”

The amended height for the barn will also be within a certain setback of the property line, under a modification made by Bourne.

Resident Dave Hutchins, who lives nearby on Ramos Street, said he is for the project.

“Dan’s done a real good job down there on this property, and I think everything else is going to be fine with it,” Hutchins said.

In other news from the meeting, City Manager Ben Siegel said staff has scheduled three license revocation hearings in October for local massage parlors following a police investigation. Alleged human trafficking in massage parlors in San Juan Capistrano and Orange County has come into the local spotlight after Hart raised the issue, introducing measures to strengthen regulations on massage parlors.

“If the information presented at the hearings supports revocation, notices of revocation will be issued within 10 days,” Siegel said. “Under the city’s recently amended massage ordinance, for a five-year period after revocation, the licensee would not be able to operate a massage business anywhere in the city—nor would any other proprietor be able to open a massage business on that particular business center where the establishment was located.” thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEW BITES

COMMUNITY MEETINGS

COMPILED BY STAFF

SATURDAY, SEPT. 11

Citizens’ Climate Education 10:45 a.m.-noon. This nonpartisan climate action group holds monthly meetings on the second Saturday of the month through Zoom video conferences.

Email larrykramerccl@gmail.com to receive a link to join.

CD | Chamber of Commerce

Awards Citizen, Businesses of the Year During Banquet Members of the San Juan Capistrano business community celebrated persevering through the COVID-19 pandemic during a banquet hosted by the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce at Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano on Thursday, Aug. 26.

The banquet is generally an annual event, but it did not happen in 2020 due to the ongoing pandemic. San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association President Jim Taylor was named Citizen of the Year. Taylor has volunteered with food giveaways and other community events throughout the past year, and he also has been an advocate for suicide prevention.

“It wasn’t just me out there. It was a ton of us,” Taylor said. “So many businesses stepped up during the pandemic.

Restaurants that were shuttered donated food, so it wouldn’t spoil.”

Car dealers in San Juan were collectively named Businesses of the Year: Nissan of San Juan Capistrano, Capistrano Valley Toyota, Paradise Automotive Group, Coastline Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, Ocean Honda of San Juan Capistrano, Tuttle-Click’s Capistrano Ford, Capistrano Volkswagen, and Capistrano Mazda.

Mayor John Taylor noted the economic benefits that the local auto industry had for the town during the pandemic.

The banquet also serves as a passing of the torch for the Chamber’s Chairman of the Board. Doug Abramson was named the new chairman and replaces outgoing Chairman John Alpay.

“Even though we haven’t been front and center, we have been working behind the scenes to best represent the interests of the business community,” Alpay said.

Abramson said the Chamber has navigated two tough years, encouraged people to get involved with the Chamber, and complimented Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano—a boutique hotel that opened downtown last fall.

“Thanks to Inn at the Mission for providing this facility,” Abramson said.

“I hope you all take notice how nice it is, because it is an awesome venue. Please consider it for future events.”

Other awards presented included the Cornerstone Award for Nonprofit of the Year to the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center; Coalition of California Chambers Orange County Emerging Leaders Award to Dirissy Doan, Katheryn Morrison, and Mary Visconte; and the CEO Award to The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 15

Car dealers in San Juan were collectively named Businesses of the Year: Nissan of San Juan Capistrano, Capistrano Valley Toyota, Paradise Automotive Group, Coastline Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, Ocean Honda of San Juan Capistrano, Tuttle-Click’s Capistrano Ford, Capistrano Volkswagen, and Capistrano Mazda. Photo: Collin Breaux

and families in our community despite our challenges with the pandemic,” ALCV President Joyce Helland said. “Our volunteer-run Bargain Box thrift store here in San Clemente allows us to pass along proceeds directly back into our local community supporting children in need.”

The nonprofit has given out clothes, shoes, and school supplies for kids going back to school; awarded grants to local middle schools; and provided scholarships to single parents attending Saddleback College and graduating seniors from military families.

Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department in San Juan Capistrano, and Orange County Fire Authority.

Representatives from the City of San Juan Capistrano were also recognized for their efforts in economic development. Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett said city staff and councilmembers “really kept the train running.”

CD | Registration Open

for FAM Hunger Walk Local nonprofit Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) is encouraging people to register for a walk happening next month that will help the hungry and needy in the community.

The 34th annual Hunger Walk will be on Sunday, Oct. 17. The walk is 2.5 miles and starts at 2 p.m. from the San Clemente Community Center. It will end at the Pier Bowl with a party and live music by local band Jim Plays Dan. Registration costs are $30 for adults, $10 for kids of high school age and younger, and $5 for pets on leashes. Children ages 3-and-under are free.

Visit fam.securesweet.com to register or for more information.

CD | San Clemente Invites

Skaters to Register for SC Open Skateboard Contest Young skaters will have a chance to show off their skills in a series of competitions next weekend, when the City of San Clemente hosts its 20th annual SC Open Skateboard Contest at Ralphs Skate Court.

In conjunction with the Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation, the city is inviting skaters aged 5 through 17 to compete in various male and female divisions, as well as open skate and trick contests.

The contest, which kicks off with a band performing the opening ceremony at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18, will also feature a vendor fair and food and beverages.

There will be two awards ceremonies, one at 5:45 p.m. for skaters 11 and younger, and another at 7:40 p.m. for those 12 and older.

Early-bird registration for the event is $20 per skater through Friday, Sept. 17.

Skaters can still register for $35 the day of the event, starting at 1 p.m.

The city emphasizes that all participants will be required to wear safety equipment such as a helmet and knee

CD | Nonprofit Celebrates 40

Years of Helping Children Assistance League of Capistrano Valley (ALCV) is rejoicing over its 40th anniversary. The nonprofit has aimed to help kids through community programs since its founding in 1980.

ALCV has returned $5.3 million back to the community, the organization said in a news release.

“Last year, ALCV members gave over 13,173 volunteer hours to help children Page 6

CUSD Board of Trustees 7 p.m. The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting. Members of the public can attend in-person or watch the meeting online. Capistrano Unified School District, 33122 Valle Rd, San Juan Capistrano. capousd.org.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 17

Coffee Chat 8:30 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. The first Friday of the month will be held on Zoom, with in-person gatherings on all other Fridays at Hennessey’s Tavern in San Juan Capistrano, 31761 Camino Capistrano. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 21

City Council 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano City Council will hold a meeting open to the public. The meeting can also be viewed online at the city website, sanjuancapistrano.org. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22

Planning Commission 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission will hold a meeting open to the public. The meeting can also be viewed online at the city website, sanjuancapistrano. org. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 24

Lunch with the Mayor Noon. Mayor John Taylor will eat at a different restaurant in San Juan Capistrano almost every Friday, and the public is welcome to attend. Feel free to chat with Taylor and others, though you’ll have to pay for your own meal.

Check with Taylor to see where he’ll be.

The next print issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

and elbow pads.

To register with the city online, head to san-clemente.org/home. thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

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thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON RMV

Rancho Mission Viejo Receives Fire Safety Recognition

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

R

ancho Mission Viejo has taken steps to address fire safety in its community design, home construction, and landscape materials—which has been recognized with a Firewise USA designation from the National Fire Protection Association.

“We’re really proud to receive this designation from the NFPA,” said Mike Balsamo, Senior Vice President of Governmental Affairs for Rancho Mission Viejo, in a news release. “When planning began on Rancho Mission Viejo, wildfires were considered in every major decision we made, and that continues with our present-day planning.”

RMV has partnered with Orange Coun-

ty Fire Authority and County of Orange to address fire safety. The master-planned community has reportedly exceeded county and state requirements on fire safety as they maintain the communities of Esencia and Sendero—and look to build Rienda, their newest neighborhood.

“In addition to exceeding codified fire protection measures, resident involvement at the individual homeowner level was a crucial element in receiving the NFPA’s Firewise Designation. Each village on The Ranch has an Action Plan, which focuses on resident education, volunteerism and engagement,” a press release said. “Items in the Action Plans include passive participation opportunities

like knowing where to find evacuation information and reviewing the ‘Ready Set Go’ Program, to more active volunteerism like joining the Fire Watch Group.”

OCFA trains volunteers to stay alert during months when extreme weather is possible—generally September through November.

Fire Chief Brian Fennessy said crews can respond more effectively with good design and educated residents.

“Rancho Mission Viejo has been a regional leader in Firewise planning for many years,” Fennessy said.“Our partnership and collaboration with Rancho Mission Viejo helps make these communities safer and as prepared as any in the county.” CD

EVENTS AT THE RANCH SEPT. 25

VIRTUAL VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION AND TRAINING 9-10:30 a.m. Take the first step in becoming an official volunteer at The Nature Reserve. Participants will get to learn about the outdoor area’s history, purpose, and other relevant information. The event will be held over Zoom. Sign up at rmvreserve.org.

SEPT. 26

RISE AND SHINE FALL HIKE 8-10 a.m. Explore the trails at The Nature Reserve and personally experience the outdoors in South Orange County. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children, and free for supporters. Participants must be registered or on the wait list by Friday, Sept. 24, at 4 p.m. Sign up at rmvreserve.org.

NATURE RESERVE HOSTS TARANTULA WALK

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo is home to all sorts of wildlife—including eight-legged critters.

The outdoor area will host a night walk on Saturday, Sept. 11, to give families and community members a chance to see tarantulas and other critters up close.

Participants can sign up at rmvreserve.org and must be registered or on the wait list by 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 10. The walk will be from 6 to 8 p.m.

“Participants will have a unique opportunity to join guest leader Bob Allen for a chance to get up close and personal with tarantulas and other arthropods,” said Leeta Latham, Executive Director for The Nature Reserve. “There is new life everywhere on The Ranch, and we’re excited for the community to discover and learn.”

Solitary male tarantulas can usually be found roaming the trails at the Richard and Donna O’Neil Conservancy around mid-August. Males mature around this time, abandoning their burrows and wandering in search of mates, said Latham.

“I think it’s safe to say that we hope everyone who attends this special event walks away having learned something new,” said Latham. “With that education comes appreciation—an appreciation for The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

Get a chance to see tarantulas up close during a night walk in the outdoors of South Orange County. Photo: Courtesy of The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo

the land and the creatures that live on it, including tarantulas.”

Other educational events are coming

up at The Nature Reserve, and can be viewed at rmvreserve.org.

The cost for Saturday’s walk is $10 Page 8

for adults, $5 for children, and free for Reserve supporters. Participants should wear walking shoes. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

Page 9

thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | The Levin Letter by Rep. Mike Levin

Federal Relief Arrives for Cherished Local Businesses S

outh Orange County residents know the value of the small businesses that anchor our community. Locals and tourists alike come together to build memories in the many restaurants, recreational venues, and other locally owned establishments that line our streets. Amidst a pandemic that threatened many of these small businesses, federal relief has enabled many to keep their lights on.

By now, you’ve probably heard of the American Rescue Plan, a comprehensive federal effort to address the public health and economic crises we face. What you may not have heard is how this legislation is making a difference for the local establishments we cherish. The American Rescue Plan not only provided a lifeline to help everyday people struggling to make ends meet, but it also delivered crucial support to local small businesses through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant has brought nearly $19 million in relief for 28 venues in our district. Among the local recipients is the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Founded in 1776, this “Jewel of the

Missions” has weathered storms for centuries, both physical and economic. As the pandemic brought economic activity to a crawl at most gathering places, the Mission fell well short of its 300,000 average annual visitors, missing out on substantial revenue.

Fortunately, a federal THE LEVIN LETTER grant has brought

BY MIKE LEVIN much-needed relief to pay for maintenance and other costs at the 246-year-old venue.

Local restaurants, bars, and other dining establishments have also benefited greatly from American Rescue Plan funding. The Restaurant Revitalization Fund has supported more than 100,000 businesses across the country, including many great establishments in South OC. Among these are Tamarindo Restaurant and The Fuel Shack in San Clemente, and It’s All About the Cake in Dana Point. The fund has helped these business owners keep employees on payroll and cover other operating expenses.

While I’m thrilled to see these programs serve our community, I also recognize that not all eligible businesses have

GUEST OPINION | by John Perry

LAFCO Approves Transfer of the Water Utility

I

n 2015, the City of San Juan Capistrano initiated a study to determine if the city’s water utility could be transferred to a larger regional water authority, relieving the financial burden of operating its own water system.

The city council set three goals for its

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

study to see if it is possible to: 1. Reduce current water, service charge, and sewer rates

GUEST OPINION

2. Minimize future water rate increases

BY JOHN PERRY

3. Improve the level of service for all customers The City of San Juan Capistrano has a particular problem that is not easy to deal with. In 2004, the city council, at that time, decided to build a Ground Water Recovery Plant (GWRP) that would tap into the aquifer that lies beneath the San Juan Creek. The water in this aquifer is highly contaminated with minerals and salt that must be removed before the water can be used for human consumption.

The water in the basin is managed by the San Juan Basin Authority (SJBA) through a permit issued by the State of

received relief. That’s why I am supporting the Restaurant Revitalization Fund Replenishment Act, which would enable thousands of more restaurants access to an additional $60 billion in critical federal assistance.

Like so many successful businesses across the country, our local establishments took a hit during COVID-19 through no fault of their own. Because of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant and Restaurant Revitalization Fund programs, we have been able to help many of these local business owners stay alive and thrive.

These small businesses help keep our economy turning and the spirit of entrepreneurship alive. I encourage all residents to find time to safely support our local businesses—I know I will!

U.S. Representative Mike Levin represents the 49th Congressional District, which includes the South Orange County cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. He was reelected for a second term in 2020 and resides in San Juan Capistrano with his wife and two children. 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.

California. The funding to construct the GWRP was obtained through a sale of $35 million in revenue bonds by the SJBA. In 2004, the city signed a 35-year lease agreement with the SJBA to operate and maintain the GWRP. The annual lease payments of over $2 million are part of the water rates paid by city water customers. The city doesn’t own the GWRP; it leases it from the SJBA for a 35-year period, then has an option for another 35 years at $1 per year.

The GWRP has been in operation for 17 years and has consistently produced water that is costlier than that available from the Metropolitan Water District. Past city councils justified the additional cost of the GWRP production as being necessary to supply the community with local water during earthquakes and drought.

After six years, LAFCO finally approved the merger of San Juan Capistrano water utility into Santa Margarita Water District.

So, what will happen to our water rates and (Cont. on page 13)

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The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

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The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

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SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | Finding Inspiration by Mechelle Lawrence Adams

Faith and Friendship Guides the Way at Mission San Juan Capistrano W

elcome to the Mission’s column, “Finding Inspiration,” which comes from our new book written to celebrate the history and beauty of the Mission gardens.

As we steer Mission San Juan Capistrano through recovery from the pandemic, we look here for inspiration, faith, and friendship to guide the way.

For example, we find joy in the news that the Mission is now open six days a week offering a safe, outdoor experience.

After two closures, being able to open our doors to a grateful public is a source of inspiration.

We remain indebted to O’Connell Landscape Maintenance and our Gardening Angels for FINDING taking good care of INSPIRATION the Mission during

BY MECHELLE this difficult time.

LAWRENCE ADAMS Along with them, we find inspiration from our volunteer docents, who continued to give tours.

There is inspiration in the return of on-site fourth-grade field trips and the fact that 28,000 California fourth-graders took advantage of our virtual field trip program last year.

The beautiful and historic Serra Chapel remains open to our guests to provide inspiration and the chance for personal prayer or meditation in the very place that many local Catholics have called their spiritual home for decades.

After a long hiatus, the Mission Preservation Foundation Board of Directors is also paving the way for its ever-inspiring Romance of the Mission benefit gala.

With reduced capacity, this sold-out event raises important funds for preservation and gives the board the opportunity to

(Cont. from page 10) future water availability after the merger?

Santa Margarita Water District has a tiered water rate schedule, with Tier 1 being the residential rate. It is probable that Tier 1 rates may show a slight decrease and then be slowly adjusted to provide revenue to support the rising The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

Longtime Mission San Juan Capistrano supporters Peter and Connie Spenuzza will be honored at the Romance of the Mission benefit gala on Sept. 17. Photo: Lisa Renee Baker

celebrate Connie and Dr. Peter Spenuzza for their longtime support of the Mission’s preservation. (By the way, this amazing couple is featured in today’s edition of The Capistrano Dispatch).

We find inspiration in the many generous friends who are supporting the gala’s opportunity drawing—including Lugano Diamonds of Newport Beach providing four-and-a-half carat rose gold and round cognac diamond earrings; the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano offering a fabulous Stay and Play Package; and a timeless Cartier Tank Solo watch given to the event from our dear friends at The

Swiss Connection, Inc. and Jean-Jacques Mamie Fine Jewelry. Finally, our pal, Jim Curwood at Buy My Bikes, donated two Electra Townie 7D EQ bikes. All proceeds from the drawing will benefit Mission preservation.

Although this past year was very difficult, the Mission was greatly supported by many generous individuals. May we find inspiration from their collective efforts knowing that the Mission is tethered by time and the lasting impact of faithful stewards.

Mechelle Lawrence Adams is the executive director of Mission San Juan Capistra-

no. The Orange County native was a city planner-turned-nonprofit director with background in preservation, fundraising, economic development and marketing.

Lawrence Adams has served on a variety of commissions, including the Orange County Historical Commission, and her team has been widely recognized for their leadership and impact in historic preservation benefiting California’s historic missions. CD

cost of water, but also to rebuild the aged San Juan Capistrano sewer system.

Santa Margarita Water District has an extensive recycled water program using runoff from communities newly constructed along the Ortega Highway. They have built a huge reservoir to capture and hold treated wastewater. This water will be slowly released into the San Juan

Basin, recharging the basin aquifer. The current Ground Water Recovery Plant (GWRP) will filter the water through reverse osmosis and supply purified water to its customers.

If 60% of the total water demand can be met by the use of recycled water and the remaining 40% from rainfall and snowpack from Northern California, our

water supply in the South County will be sustainable.

John Perry is a former San Juan Capistrano Councilmember. CD

Page 13

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.

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.

thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

Editor’s Pick

The List What’s going on in and around town this week THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Get a curated list of the weekend’s best events sent straight to your inbox every Friday! Sign up for The Weekender at thecapistranodispatch.com/weekender The City of San Juan Capistrano is hosting another free concert at Historic Town Center Park. Photo: Collin Breaux

FRIDAY | 10 FARMERS MARKET IN SAN JUAN 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy the farmers market in town every Friday afternoon. Check out the produce, breads, cheeses, artisan craft vendors, and more. Farmakis Farms, 29932 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.364.1270. farmakisfarms.com.

SATURDAY | 11 REMEMBRANCE GARDEN WORKSHOP 10-11 a.m. Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens will host a free workshop on how to create a remembrance garden in honor of a loved one. No experience is necessary. RSVP online through Goin’ Native’s website. Reata Park, 28632 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.606.6386. goinnative.net.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE COACH HOUSE 8 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue. Tommy Castro & the Painkillers will perform.

Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GHOST WALK 8 p.m. Learn about the eerie history of San Juan Capistrano as you walk through the downtown area and near Mission San Juan Capistrano. The walk is hosted by Haunted Orange County. Attendees are asked to meet at the visitor’s information The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

WEDNESDAY | 15 SAN JUAN SUMMER NITES 6-8 p.m. The second and last of this year’s free concert series from the City of San Juan Capistrano will be another night of outdoor downtown community fun. Tijuana Dogs will perform. There will be food trucks, adult beverages, vendors and local businesses, and children’s activities. Attendees are welcome to bring a blanket and lawn chair. A free trolley runs from 4-9 p.m. Historic Town Center Park, 31872 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.4935911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

booth near the train tracks. Face masks are required on all tours until further notice. 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 866.446.7803. hauntedoc.com.

nation at 1 p.m. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. sanclementeisland.californiadar.org.

TUESDAY | 14

FLASHBACK THURSDAYS AT REGENCY THEATRES 7:30 p.m. The movie theater downtown will screen Back to the Future as part of its Flashback Thursday series. Order some popcorn and sit back in your seat while you enjoy this classic film. Tickets are $10.

Regency Theatres San Juan Capistrano, 26762 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 844.216.3767. regencymovies.com.

GARDENING VOLUNTEER PROGRAM 8-10 a.m. Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens will host a Garden Angel volunteer program at Reata Park on Tuesday mornings and at Los Rios Park on Friday mornings. Learn how to tend to gardens while enjoying the outdoors. Email lynn@goinnative.net for more details.

Reata Park, 28632 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.606.6386. goinnative.net.

FRIDAY | 17

THURSDAY | 16 CONSTITUTION DAY CELEBRATION 1 p.m. The San Clemente Island chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be at Mission San Juan Capistrano for a ringing of the bells to mark the 234th anniversary of the signing of Constitution of the United States of America.

Constitution Week is celebrated annually from Sept. 17-23 and was started by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Bells will ring in unison throughout the

LIVE THEATER AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE 7:30 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse is fully open again for a regular performance season, after being shut down throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The season kicks off with The Nerd, a comedy by Larry Shue and directed by Rhonda Goldstein. The show runs through Oct. 3. Current health guidelines will be in place. All staff members and actors are fully vaccinated. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

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SATURDAY | 18 SHEA CENTER’S 42ND ANNUAL BBQ & FAMILY FAIRE 4-10 p.m. The Shea Center is again hosting its annual barbecue fundraiser.

Attendees can learn more about the therapeutic center’s mission, watch clients ride horses, tour the barns, play carnival games, and more. Tickets limited and only available online. Full vaccination and masks are encouraged. The Shea Center, 26284 Oso Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.240.8441, ext. 101. sheacenter.org.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE BREWHOUSE 6-8 p.m. Jim Plays Dan will perform. Grab some drinks and enjoy this Steely Dan tribute band. The BrewHouse, 31896 Plaza Drive, Suite D3, San Juan Capistrano.

949.481.6181. brewhousesjc.com.

WEDNESDAY | 22 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. thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

FRIDAY | 24 LIVE MUSIC AT TREVOR’S 3 p.m. Eat some food, grab a drink and unwind while listening to live music at Trevor’s at the Tracks. Sawyer Auger will perform. Darden Sisters perform later in the evening at 7 p.m. Trevor’s at the Tracks, 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.9593. trevorsatthetracks.com.

SATURDAY | 25 WILSON DISEASE AWARENESS WALK 8:30 a.m. The Pat Melvin Foundation will host a walk in downtown San Juan Capistrano to raise awareness of Wilson’s disease, a rare genetic disorder that can be fatal if not caught and treated early. Pat Melvin was a San Juan Capistrano native and San Clemente resident who died at the age of 35 from the disease. The walk will also raise money for the Wilson Disease Association to help patients and their families.

There will also be raffle prizes and a kids’ party. The walk is part of the national Big WOW fundraiser. Tickets can be purchased online. Historic Town Center Park, 31872 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

714.727.9126. patmelvinfoundation.org.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

AT THE MOVIES

‘The Protégé’ Barely Stands Out on Her Own

BY MEGAN BIANCO

If the pandemic era didn’t exist, something like Martin Campbell’s latest action flick, The Protégé, would have probably just been dumped in theaters at the end of summer, with hardly anyone even noticing it was even in theaters.

And some of that is true, as it got a late August theatrical release. But at the same time, I saw just as many ads and trailers for The Protégé as I did the new Marvel blockbuster.

The title character, Anna Dutton (Maggie Q), is an exceptionally trained and skilled secret assassin who moonlights by day as a vintage bookkeeper in London. Her life is turned upside down when her mentor, Moody (Samuel L. Jackson), and a handful of other people in her professional life are killed one night.

Rather than go into hiding, Anna vows revenge for Moody, and along the way, she gets mixed up with another assassin, Michael Rembrandt (Michael Keaton). When she finds

Photo: Courtesy of Lionsgate Films

the bad guys are abroad, Anna is forced to revisit her past in Vietnam, the same location where Moody rescued her after she was orphaned as a child.

The Protégé is one of those forgettable action movies that’s right between being legitimately good and being so bad it’s unintentionally amusing. Campbell knows his stuff when it comes to blockbusters, as he is the man behind two of the best James Bond efforts: GoldenEye (1995) and Casino Royale (2007).

The cast is decent, with Q reminding us she

Page 15

can fit right into the action heroine role nearly a decade after leading the CW’s Nikita (2010-13), while Keaton and Jackson do their usual schticks.

Unfortunately, as far as the screenwriting goes, the plot and especially the dialogue of The Protégé are very schlocky and pedestrian.

This is also probably one of the more visually gruesome releases you’ll come across lately.

The fights and explosions are well-directed and shot, but the clichés and unmemorable characters hold The Protégé back from being intriguing. CD

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SJC LIVING

GUEST OPINION | Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

State Legislation Threatens Open Space

T

he city motto of “Preserving the Past to Ensure the Future” has never been more important than it is today. With all the national and international news and the recall election in California, two actions by the California super-Democrat legislative body are moving through committees with little notice by the media.

California Senate Bills 9 and 10 are both intended to erase the state’s housing crisis. But if read closely, they both have the ability to alter private party ownership forever.

Senate Bill 9 requires that lot splits create two parcels of similar size that are at least 1,200 square feet. It also encourages duplexes, even though two-thirds of residential neighborhoods in California currently ban duplexes and smaller houses on a single plot. Nowhere in the law is the mention of additional garage space or parking spaces. And nowhere does it mention making these new developments low-cost or affordable housing. So the point of the bill is … ?

Senate Bill 10 amends the planning and zoning code. The current law requires a city or county to adopt a general plan for land use development within its boundaries. The amended bill adds a housing element. It takes away the right of any local restriction enacted or approved by a local initiative that designates publicly owned land as open space, or for park or recreational purposes. This would be devastating to San Juan Capistrano. Like its companion bill SB9, this bill does not mention low-cost or affordable housing. The bill

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

Roland

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

does say that a local legislative body must pass a resolution to adopt the plan and that it allows for local government to change initiatives passed by voters with a two-thirds local legislative body.

MOMENTS IN TIME That is a lot of presBY JAN SIEGEL sure to put on a small city council. What will be the pressures from Sacramento?

San Juan Capistrano is a very special and unique community. Forty percent of all land in San Juan Capistrano is open space. And this is by design. In 1974, the city adopted a new General Plan that changed the direction of the community by emphasizing its small village-like character, preserving major ridgelines to define the limits of the community by these natural features, and setting aside a minimum of 30% of the city as open space—including areas for preserving active agricultural operations and maintaining a rural equestrian lifestyle. As a result, the city maintains 25 parks for the public.

A bond Issue passed in 1990 with 74% of the vote gave the city the ability to purchase the Kinoshita Farm, which became The Ecology Center, soccer fields, a working organic farm, the Community Center, a Sports Park, the Northwest Open Space dog park, and Putuidem Village.

In 2010, the city purchased 132 acres of open space, including the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park from Rancho Mission Viejo for $27.5 million, using a

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

This handsome guy is Roland, a 2-yearold Doberman Pinscher now available for adoption. Due to his sweet and silly personality, his walkers often call him a “lovable goofball.” Roland is looking for an active family with older children and space for him to run and play. Could this happy fellow be the one for you?

If you are interested in adopting Roland, please visit petprojectfoundation.org 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.

Photo: Thomas Hunn and OC Public Libraries.

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo shows Chula Martine in front of Hotel San Juan Capistrano on El Camino Real in the late 1800s-early 1900s.

Every issue, The Capistrano Dispatch will publish a historical photo. To submit your historical photo for consideration, provide information about the photo along with your name, date, location and a small description to cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com.

$30 million bond the voters had approved in 2008.

All of our open space could be in danger if SB10 passes.

Spend a “Moment in Time” and research these bills. Find out what is being voted on that impacts our community. Remember, “Preserving the Past to Ensure the Future” is what has kept our town so special. Don’t let Sacramento take away our way of life.

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.

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

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

Page 16

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CLASSIFIEDS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com

FOR SALE AUTO - FOR SALE 2010 Honda Accord - dark gray - 75,000 miles. Good gas mileage, 4 cylinder, in good condition. $8,500.00 OBO. Call (714)349-4626

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@thecapistranodispatch.com

DEADLINE 12PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

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

GARAGE SALE - SEPTEMBER 11 8 to 11 am. 218 Ave. Cabrillo, San Clemente. Lots and lots of women’s and juniors clothes. 1 antique nightstand

HELP WANTED PART TIME RETAIL SALES Part Time Retail Sales- Coastal Karma located in the San Clemente Outlets is looking for someone who enjoys fashion and working with friendly people. Hours/ Pay Negotiable. Contact: Jessica at 415-250-4311 to hear more.

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

HELP WANTED OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE

Call Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or debra@wellsadsolutions.com

OPEN JOB POSITIONS CUSTODIAL: The Outlets at San Clemente is currently seeking to hire Full-Time Custodians to help maintain the overall cleanliness and appearance of the entire shopping center. Full-time benefits include paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, short term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance and 401k. Great atmosphere, teamwork, and benefits.

SECURITY: The Outlets at San Clemente is currently hiring Full-Time Security Officers who will take initiative and ensure a safe and positive shopping experience for our employees and shoppers.

Full-time benefits include paid time off, medical/ dental/vision coverage, short term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and 401k. EXPERIENCE IS A PLUS! Guard Card Required. Great atmosphere, teamwork, and benefits.

MAINTENANCE: Building Maintenance Lead-Full Time Energetic, outgoing, and personable candidate who has the will and drive to succeed would be the ideal applicant for Maintenance Lead. The applicant will exemplify the personality of what it takes to work in the retail industry.

Qualifications: High School or equivalent (required) Maintenance Experience Valid driver’s license Can operate Scissor Lift, Boom, Forklift.

Must have experience with electrical, plumbing, carpentry, lighting, a jack-of-all trades!

Great pay and Benefits!! Visit outletsatsanclemente.applicantpro.com to submit an application

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

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

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

SAN JUAN

FOOTBALL ROUNDUP

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

For in-game updates, news and more for all of the San Juan Capistrano high school sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCSports.

San Juan Hills Continues Tough Schedule, Falls to 0-3 San Juan Hills has found itself on the rough end of a tough opening schedule, but the Stallions got two standout freshman and senior performances on Friday, Sept. 3.

The Stallions fell to 0-3 on the season as Roosevelt of Eastvale came to the Badlands and pulled out a 21-14 win.

San Juan Hills was competitive in its opener against Santa Margarita, fell in overtime to Cypress at home and then lost this one-score game at home to Roosevelt. Head coach Rob Frith purposely scheduled a tough slate to test his team and get them ready for the road ahead.

It doesn’t get any easier for the Stallions, as they host 3-0 Yorba Linda on Friday, Sept. 10, desperately needing a win to prevent slipping out of potential playoff contention well before their league schedule begins.

Despite the latest loss, San Juan Hills was picked up by two strong performances from two of its youngest players and a few of its oldest.

Freshman linebacker Weston Port continued his name-making debut season with four sacks against Roosevelt.

Port also made six tackles, including five solo tackles. Port has 23 tackles on the season and 6½ sacks.

The defensive effort was also led by seniors, with Rastin Hazen forcing, recovering and returning a fumble 69 yards for a touchdown. Senior Chase Schmidt also led San Juan Hills in tackles with eight, and senior Max Serrano recovered two fumbles. Sophomore Ryan Haghani made seven solo tackles, including a sack.

Offensively, freshman quarterback Michael “Butter” Tollefson came on late to complete 3 of 7 passes for 41 yards and the Stallions’ only offensive touchdown of the night on a pass to UCLA-committed receiver Braden Pegan. Pegan caught eight passes for 67 yards. Junior quarterback Colton Joseph started the game and completed 12 of 19 passes for 125 yards.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10-23, 2021

The San Juan Hills football team has had a grind of a schedule to open the season, and the Stallions have been on the wrong side of close games in an 0-3 start. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

JSerra Adjusts Schedule, Preps for Tough Opponents The JSerra football team picked up its first win in emphatic fashion with a shutout of Notre Dame of Sherman Oaks on Aug. 27, but the Lions weren’t able to follow up and ride the momentum.

After the 20-0 win at home over Notre Dame, JSerra (1-1) was set to play at Newport Harbor on Thursday, Sept. 2, but due to a positive COVID test in its program, Newport Harbor was forced to call off the contest on Monday, Aug. 30.

However, the game wasn’t completely lost, as the Lions and Sailors shared a pre-league bye week. Newport Harbor will now host JSerra on Sept. 24. It’ll be important for the Lions to get that game in, as it may be the last chance for a truly winnable game on their schedule.

On Friday, Sept. 10, JSerra hosts Centennial of Corona, which is currently ranked No. 4 in the state by calpreps.com. The CalPreps rankings will be used in the CIF-SS’ post-season division alignment for the playoffs. JSerra is currently ranked No. 79 in California.

Centennial won its season opener over Cathedral Catholic of San Diego, 57-14, and beat Sierra Canyon last week, 35-14.

Cathedral is ranked No. 8 in the state, and Sierra Canyon, which is ranked No. 6 in the state, beat JSerra in its Aug. 20 season opener, 40-14.

JSerra then plays at Rancho Cucamonga, ranked No. 42 in the state, on Sept. 17 before playing at Newport Harbor the following week. JSerra opens Trinity League play on Oct. 1 at home against Santa Margarita, ranked No. 29 in the state.

St. Margaret’s Opens Season 0-2 For the second straight week, St. Margaret’s held a lead in the fourth quarter, and for the second straight week, the Tartans ended up on the wrong side of the scoreboard.

St. Margaret’s (0-2) led La Mirada on the road by 11 points in the third quarter, but the Matadors pushed ahead in the fourth quarter with 21 unanswered points to beat the Tartans, 31-21, on Friday, Sept. 3.

St. Margaret’s also had a slim lead in its home opener against Christian of El Cajon, but the Tartans’ offense struggled to be consistent all night in a 20-16 loss on Aug. 27.

St. Margaret’s looks for its first win on Friday, Sept. 10, at Rim of the World (2-0) in Lake Arrowhead, and then the Tartans come home to host Riverside Prep on Sept.

17.

Capistrano Valley Christian Scores Big Shutout for 2-1 Record

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The Capistrano Valley Christian football

team had a lot of building and learning to do over the previous calendar year, and what the Eagles have found is an offense that clicks.

Beyond the explosive offense, CVC (2-1) had its defense come to the party on Friday, Sept. 3, as the Eagles went on the road to shut out Godinez of Santa Ana, 34-0.

Freshman quarterback Nate Richie completed 13 of 16 passes for 116 yards, including a 26-yard touchdown pass to senior receiver Kaden Manrique. Richie also pushed in two touchdowns on two rushing carries for three yards.

Junior running back Tommy Woods carried the ball seven times for 52 yards and a touchdown. Junior Hayden Carlson also threw a 31-yard touchdown pass to sophomore receiver JP Synnott on his only attempt of the game.

Synott also racked up a sack and four tackles on defense, and freshman Jeffrey Foster also had a sack with four tackles. Junior Kai Martinez led with five tackles, and freshman Heath Carlson recovered a fumble.

CVC plays at the California Military Institute on Friday, Sept. 10, and at Desert Christian Academy on Sept. 17. The Eagles are next home against Bosco Tech of Rosemead on Sept. 24 at Tesoro High School. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

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thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 10–23, 2021

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thecapistranodispatch.com