December 10, 2021

DECEMBER 10-23, 2021 | VOLUME 19, ISSUE 23

INSIDE: Special Section

2021 Winter Sports Preview High School Teams Ready to Fly with Fewer Restrictions, Higher Goals S P O R T S / PAG E 22

thecapistranodispatch.com

Several of the city’s high school basketball teams are highly ranked in the CIF-SS polls and poised to compete for league championships. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Putuidem Village Opens

Ridlands Secure Negotiations for Long-Term Riding Park Management

Editor’s Pick: WinterScape

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EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

GETTING OUT/PAGE 18

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

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EYE ON SJC

Jacque Tahuka-Nunez, of the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians, shares ancestral details of her people during the grand opening of Putuidem Village on Friday, Dec. 3. Photo: Collin Breaux

What’s Up With...

Descendants of the first people in what is now San Juan Capistrano held ceremonial rituals, smiled, and expressed elation during the long-awaited grand opening of Putuidem Village in the town’s North-

west Open Space along Camino Capistrano on Friday, Dec. 3.

The cultural area honors the region’s indigenous people through cultural markers and other amenities, and it had been in

the works for years. After recent delays to the opening brought about by fiscal uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, the public can now walk through the area, which is largely still open space.

“I am so thrilled to be in this circle. I’m so thrilled because never again do I have to say to the children, ‘Close your eyes and imagine there are dwellings that that look like igloos that are made with grasses.’ Never again, because when they come here, they will see it,” said Jacque Tahuka-Nunez, of the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians.

Tahuka-Nunez said the space is the same land her ancestors walked on, and was founded by a woman warrior chief.

Tahuka-Nunez told other historical stories

City to Negotiate with Ridlands for Long-Term Riding Park Management

scheduled to vote on selecting which group to move forward with during negotiations. The city will now enter into those negotiations with the Ridlands, who could become the operators for the next 20 years if an agreement is reached.

“They had a robust proposal for the consideration. It included continuation of the historic English jumping events, and (in 2022), we’ll have the Nations Cup, which is considered a very prestigious event, at the riding park,” Assistant City Manager Charlie View said during an overview presented to the council on Tuesday, Dec. 7. “They have listened very clearly to the community and are indicating they’ll add Western equestrian events at the facility, and concerts and various musical activities.”

Other enhancements are coming to the park, including the WinterScape

event being held throughout December.

The riding park also is already the host of MissionFest, a country musical festival, and will add a concert by hip-hop artist Nelly in January.

The city put out a request for proposals for long-term use of the park earlier this year. The RFP was intended to solicit bids that could provide funding to satisfy water quality improvements required under a consent decree reached after a lawsuit settlement with Orange County Coastkeeper.

The environmentally minded nonprofit sued the city over allegations the city’s Eastern Open Space—a part of which the riding park occupies—is inadequate due to horses at the park contributing to water pollution through excrement.

Water-quality improvements must be in place by December 2022.

“Anticipated improvements that will

TOP NEWS SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Native American, SJC Community Celebrate Opening of Putuidem Village

BY COLLIN BREAUX

BY COLLIN BREAUX

After months of discussion and consideration, the competition for long-term operations of the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park—a popular equestrian center in San Juan Capistrano—has now essentially been narrowed to one: current operators Hillary and Robert Ridland.

Frontier Real Estate Investments— headed by local developer and resident Dan Almquist—withdrew the only other proposal on the table on Monday, Dec. 6, the day before the City Council was The Capistrano Dispatch December 10-23, 2021

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about the original inhabitants of the area and invited children in the audience to come up for a celebratory dance.

Los Rios Historic District resident Jerry Nieblas, whose grandparents and other ancestors are buried at the Old Mission Historic Cemetery along Ortega Highway, said it was an honor to stand at Putuidem Village—an occasion that left him emotional.

“This is my mother village—myself, my cousin, the Rios. This is our mother village,” Nieblas said. “This is the village of our ancestors. I feel their presence so deeply here today.”

Nibelas said they are now free to share the stories and experiences of their people, good and bad, without anyone looking over their shoulders anymore.

Jerry Nieblas’ cousin, Gigi Nieblas, was similarly pleased when attending the grand opening. She walked through the various parts of the village, as well as past a historic oak tree that represents their people and has survived through the ages while other surrounding parts of the environment have collapsed.

“It’s more beautiful than I even thought. It’s just so cool,” said Gigi Nieblas. “Everything’s fabulous. The rocks with all the writing and directions, they came out fabulous.”

City residents and officials also were at the ceremony, including City Councilmembers.

“Isn’t this a spectacular park? It is fantastic,” then-Mayor John Taylor said.

“Thank you all for being here today. I want to acknowledge my colleagues on the City Council, Councilmember Sergio Farias and Councilmember Howard Hart. Sergio has been with this project a lot longer than I have. It’s so great to be here and see all the old families here, all the people we’ve seen and known for many, many years around town.”

be finalized in the lease agreement, most importantly include the water-quality improvements,” View said. “The City Council made that an overarching requirement of the process that whoever will operate the riding park for equestrian or other purposes must invest in the property and all water-quality requirements.”

Further planned upgrades include permanent restroom facilities and landscaping improvements. A permanent catering kitchen, welcome center, permanent spectator sitting, and an equestrian museum were mentioned as potential future investments.

The Ridlands are well-known and highly regarded in the local equestrian community. Ridland is a competitive equestrian coach and recently helped guide the U.S. show jumping team to a silver medal at the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo. thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

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EYE ON SJC

Los Rios Restaurants Can Now Apply to Extend Alcohol Services

BY COLLIN BREAUX

The Tea House and Ramos House Café, two restaurants on Los Rios Street, are now able to request an extension on their alcohol services from city officials—capping months of debate in the community on if they should be able to do so, and what the ramifications of such a decision could be.

The City Council approved an ordinance allowing the requests to move forward during a meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 7. The two restaurants were looking for a way to formally bring the matter before city officials for consideration—specifically, reinstating an accessory-use permit (AUP) process, which was removed from the Los Rios Historic Plan in 1999.

The AUPs for the two restaurants were approved in the 1990s and are considered legal, non-conforming uses. Owners and operators for the two restaurants have said they are making the request because they want to expand into dinner service and offer high-end cocktails, and are not looking to turn into bars similar to Swallow’s Inn. The AUPs under consideration are only for The Tea House and Ramos House Café, the only two places authorized to sell alcohol on Los Rios Street.

Staff recommendations made with the ordinance were to prohibit alcohol service past 10 p.m. and for alcohol licenses to be restricted to sit-down food use only. Damian Orozco, operator of The Tea House, has previously said he would like to have his last seating for The Tea House at 8 p.m. and everyone out by 9:30 p.m.

The council approved the ordinance by a 3-1 vote. Mayor Derek Reeve, Mayor Pro Tem Howard Hart, and Councilmember Sergio Farias voted yes. Councilmember Troy Bourne voted no. Councilmember John Taylor recused himself from the discussion since he lives in the Los Rios Historic District.

The potential expansion of alcohol services for The Ramos House Café and The Tea House on Los Rios Street has been a topic of community discussion and debate throughout the year. Photo: Collin Breaux

“There were probably, I don’t know, a dozen different options that we looked at—everywhere from everybody should be able to do it to let’s not do anything, which is what (Bourne) is advocating. Compromise, by its nature, makes nobody happy, and thus it’s hard to compromise,” Hart said. “Essentially what we’re being asked to do is take the two establishments that are able to sell alcohol until 5 p.m. and expand that—to liquor with one of them—and allow them to sell it until 10 p.m. We’re not adding additional sites that don’t already sell alcohol. We’re not saying you can turn yourself into a bar.”

The compromise leans more toward not doing anything than saying yes to everything, Hart said.

Bourne said Los Rios Street is not the right place for amending the rules as requested, and there is divided sentiment in the city.

“You have to run this test by you: Can we do it on your street next? If this is a

Council Looks to Update City Seal

BY COLLIN BREAUX

Father Junipero Serra is associated with San Juan Capistrano and included in much of the town’s iconography—including the current city seal.

However, that will likely change by the middle of next year.

The City Council approved, by a 4-1 vote, to change the city seal during a meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 7—effectively The Capistrano Dispatch December 10-23, 2021

removing Serra from the seal. Councilmembers Troy Bourne and Sergio Farias brought forth a proposed new design that has a bell (a symbol associated with Mission San Juan Capistrano, which has historic bells) and a swallow bird.

Though Bourne initially proposed waiting for 12 months before a new seal is implemented, the time frame was later Page 5

residential district and your neighbor comes to us next month and says, ‘Is it cool if I get an exception to the zoning to do food and alcohol sales until 10 p.m.?’—and it’s your neighbor on your street asking us to come in and make that exception, are you OK with it there?”

Bourne said. “Or would you say, ‘Whoa, I just bought this house on this cul-de-sac in a residential designated neighborhood, and I have certain expectations that you guys aren’t going to make exceptions to the code.’ But that’s what we’re being asked to do tonight, in a historic residential district, to make an exception to the code to allow this to go on until 10 p.m.”

Bourne also said there is a potential for perceived inequities when selecting who gets to serve alcohol and expand such service.

Resident Joanne Marquez said she is opposed to the changes and that there is not a need for spirits along Los Rios Street.

“There is no shortage of drinking establishments right across the tracks at the depot, so it’s not that anybody is going to do anything without,” Marquez said. “We don’t need to change the character of the street.”

Phillip Schwartze, who is representing the restaurants in their requests, said both applicants have been in business for many years and draw people to Los Rios Street.

“The actions of the subcommittee to allow them to both file some changes on their end would be very helpful to them,” Schwartze said. “All of them are good businesses. That’s what keeps things going.”

As for what’s ahead, the ordinance will have a second reading on Jan. 18 and go into effect a month later. The Cultural Heritage Commission will then review and make recommendations on the AUP applications on Feb. 22, after which the council will review and make a final decision on the applications in March.

shortened to six months. Suggestions and feedback will be solicited from the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission. If no changes come forth, the bell and swallow seal will be the new look by default.

“Seals do get updated from time to time, including some of the ones we famously use around our country. The U.S. Presidential Seal was updated so many times between 1850 and World War II,” Bourne said. “There’s probably a couple of reasons we can update ours … 52 percent, I think, last year of web

traffic is online, meaning it’s on a phone or mobile device rather than someone going to their computer and accessing something. That seal you see on the wall right there at 3-foot-scale is depicted at a scale smaller than a dime right now on an iPhone.”

While the complexity of the current seal may look great in an art studio or on a wall, that does not translate when viewing it on a smartphone, Bourne said.

The proposed new seal has a “simplified, (Cont. on page 6) thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Derek Reeve Becomes New Mayor For a second time, Derek Reeve is stepping into the mayor’s chair—this time as San Juan Capistrano heads into 2022, another year during the COVID-19 pandemic and tentative recovery from such.

Reeve was named the new mayor during an annual City Council reshuffling on Tuesday, Dec. 7. He has served on the council since 2010 and was previously the mayor in 2015. Reeve’s current term ends in December 2022.

“I don’t have any prepared statement.

First of all, I just want to thank my colleagues for trusting me in this position,” Reeve said. “It means a lot to me, and I appreciate that. As you saw in former Mayor (John) Taylor’s PowerPoint presentation, we’ve accomplished a lot over the past number of years. This is actually a very exciting time for the city.

It’s also very challenging.”

Reeve said he is fortunate to work with great men, and he is proud of the city staff and team. The theme for 2022 can be considered back to the future since the Swallows Day Parade is expected to return in March after not happening for the past two years due to the pandemic, Reeve said.

“We’re going back to having four Summer Nites Concerts,” Reeve said.

“We’re going back to doing what San Juan Capistrano does best, and that’s have fun as a community. I’m really looking forward to it. I’m glad I get the

privilege of being mayor when we have that time.”

Reeve is taking over for Taylor, who served as mayor throughout 2021.

Throughout the year, Taylor hosted mayor’s lunches at various restaurants in San Juan that were open to the community and intended to foster connection and discussion, and he was present for ceremonies recognizing the official water utility transfer to the Santa Margarita Water District and the opening of Putuidem Village.

“Just in the last few weeks, we’ve seen several long-awaited projects and initiatives completed,” Taylor said. “We have so much to celebrate as we close the book on 2021. It has been my honor to serve this community as mayor this past year, and I feel so proud and grateful of all we have accomplished together.”

Howard Hart—who was newly elected to the council after winning the November 2020 election for the District 5 seat—was chosen to be the new mayor pro tem, replacing Reeve in the role. The mayor pro tem has generally gone on to be chosen as the next mayor during the annual reorganization.

“I really appreciate the honor that my fellow councilmembers have afforded me. It’s not often that one has the opportunity to work with four gentlemen one truly respects and loves, and that’s how I feel about these guys,” Hart said.

“I’ve heard horror stories about City Councils and the backstabbing and lack of respect shown. It’s just such an honor to be able to work in a City Council where we interact with humor, with mutual respect, and with a love for the community.”

Derek Reeve will serve another term as the mayor of San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Courtesy of the City of San Juan Capistrano

(Cont. from page 5) easier-to-read font,” he said.

Serra’s legacy has been scrutinized in recent years due to his treatment of indigenous people while establishing missions throughout California, though that did not come up during the council’s discussion. The former Serra High School, a continuation school in San Juan Capistrano, recently reverted to its original name of Capistrano Union High under a decision made by the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees, partially due to the recent scrutiny.

Bourne, Mayor Pro Tem Howard Hart, and Councilmembers Sergio Farias and John Taylor voted yes on eventually adopting a new seal. Mayor Derek Reeve voted no. Reeve said changing the seal has previously been discussed “offline” for years, and he was not aware of the request from Bourne and Farias until he got an email about it days before the meeting.

“It’s not necessarily a bad idea, but as

far as not very bad ideas go, this is the absolutely worst idea imaginable,” Reeve said. “I think this is a terrible seal, but I get it. I’m not mad about it. I get what you’re trying to do. I just think it’s a bad idea.”

Reeve further alluded to potential legal issues that could arise from changing the seal, which he did not elaborate on while on the dais.

“I think my request is pretty reasonable to have this discussion regarding legal issues at the next council meeting,” Reeve said. “There’s three councilmembers that believe that, yes, we definitely have to do the seal. I want you to understand the consequences, and I think more thought needs to go into capturing the unique history and culture of the town that is not being captured in the seal that’s being proposed.”

The change has drawn backlash from some residents and community members, including Matt Gaffney, who sits on the city’s Planning Commission.

“Without Father Serra, who is somewhat out of favor in some quarters of America these days, there would be no Mission. And without the Mission in San Juan Capistrano, there would be no city of San Juan Capistrano,” Gaffney said.

“Our founding fathers recognize this, and hence that was the design they made for the seal. It’s uniquely distinctive and recognizes that it is San Juan Capistrano.”

Mechelle Lawrence Adams, executive director for the Mission—where statues and other representations of Serra are displayed—also expressed her disapproval with the proposed change in an email sent to councilmembers and city staff before the meeting.

“While change is something that can be positive, the fact is that San Juan Capistrano is uniquely special and change should be stewarded always with an eye to the past,” Lawrence Adams said.

“While a few people may be emotively responding to an image that dates to

BY COLLIN BREAUX

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10-23, 2021

Page 6

over a hundred years ago, it seems that there is a lack of appreciating what went into designing the original 1960s-era seal.

Those same values and considerations should be taken into account as we go forward.”

Lawrence Adams further said she did not see any historic analysis in the agenda item, and the potential use of a bell with a swallow “is already plentiful and seen in a variety of already successful logos” for local organizations such as the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association and Historical Society.

“Our seal should aspire to have integrity and authenticity and should appear hand-crafted, not something taken from a clip artboard. It should inspire us to have lasting pride in this community,” Lawrence Adams said. “There is nothing wrong with having a logo that has a reference to the Mission San Juan Capistrano and to the indigenous people, and from that perspective is where I believe this process is best initiated.” thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEW BITES

COMMUNITY MEETINGS SATURDAY, DEC. 11

COMPILED BY STAFF

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 | The Stand Restaurant

Opens in SJC People driving on Del Obispo Street near the Ortega Highway intersection now have yet another food option for dining out.

The Stand, a fast casual restaurant, held a ribbon-cutting on Monday, Dec. 6. It had a soft opening in November and is located at 31882 Del Obispo Street, Suite 160.

The restaurant—which also has locations in Rancho Santa Margarita and Newport Beach—bills itself as “American classics redefined” and has hamburgers and salads, among other items, on the menu. It also sells craft beer and wine.

“We’re thrilled to be here, super-excited to be open in San Juan,” said Executive Vice President Jason Wishengrad.

“We can’t wait to get going, and our team is ready to serve you guys some great food.”

Then-Mayor John Taylor had previously eaten at the San Juan location when they opened, calling the restaurant “fantastic.”

“We’re so pleased to have you in our town. It’s a very high-quality hamburger.

I can tell you that much,” Taylor said. “We wish you great success.”

Visit thestand.com for more information.

CD | Photography Business

Celebrates Grand Opening Local business owner Bethany Pryor waited a year to officially celebrate her new venture with the community.

Bethany Pryor Photography held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 1, with Pryor’s family, friends, and the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce. Though the professional photo studio started in November 2020, she held off on the grand opening due to the strict pandemic restrictions that had been in place throughout the year.

“I specialize in headshots, branding, families, and beauty. I’m excited to bring out the spark and beauty in each person I photograph,” Pryor said. “We’ve had a successful year, and I’m very excited about the future.”

Though Bethany Pryor Photography does photo sessions with families, their specialty is working with other businesses. The photo studio is located in Capistrano Business Center, at 7134 Paseo Espada in Suite 301. Large examples of her work are hung on the walls of her studio, including one photo of her kids The Capistrano Dispatch December 10-23, 2021

FRIDAY, DEC. 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.

The Stand restaurant employees, members of the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce, and other community members celebrated a ribbon-cutting for the new eatery on Monday, Dec. 6. Photo: Collin Breaux

with Santa.

Pryor grew up in San Juan Capistrano and now lives in nearby Ladera Ranch, where she is raising her two kids.

“I used to come to Las Golondrinas in this center all the time as a kid, and now I have a studio here,” she said.

Pryor has been a photographer for 15 years, and started off doing it for fun as a hobby. She used to be a music teacher, but decided to turn her passion into a profession after her kids were born. She initially worked out of a home studio before opening her current studio in the business center.

“I’m excited to be here,” Pryor said. “I’m grateful to my clients for their continued support over COVID.” For more information, visit bethanypryorphotography.com.

setting.”

Hardesty said she was lucky to have a best friend for 58 years, and the two “grew up and became women together.”

“We shared tragedy and triumph. We lived separate lives but maintained a strong friendship with mutual support for the majority of our lives,” Hardesty said. “That came to an end last week, when my best friend, writing partner, and buddy passed away. Nancy crossed over Rainbow Bridge as she slept. Her struggles are over, her pain gone forever.

Things will never be the same without her.”

CD | Elementary Educators

Ask Community to Help Send Students to Outdoor Science School

CD | Community Mourns

Death of Local Author

Usually, San Juan Elementary School teachers and staff hold fundraisers to ensure students can attend an outdoor science school (OSS) with the Emerald Cove Outdoor Science (ECOS) Institute in San Bernardino County—an opportunity in which students get to have unique hands-on lessons in ecology and other topics.

However, since the COVID-19 pandemic has put a damper on their usual fundraising activities, school members involved with the program are asking the community to pitch in with donations— particularly businesses and charitable organizations.

The OSS program will be held March 15-17, and allows fifth-grade students to fully experience the outdoors and natural world in ways they normally can’t get in the classroom or San Juan Capistrano.

Nancy Lee Perez, who many in San Juan Capistrano considered a friend, died peacefully at her home on December 2 from complications of an auto-immune disease. Her husband, Ray, and her sister, Janice Malpass, were by her side. She was 72.

Perez was “a devoted San Juan Capistrano resident for over 30 years,” according to those who knew her. She was originally from Pomona.

“Perez was a passionate reader and spent 30 years writing, creating, and editing advertising content before becoming a novelist,” said friend John Caldwell.

“She and her lifelong best friend, Victoria Hardesty, wrote a series of children’s books about kids and their Arabian horses based in a San Juan Capistrano Page 7

MONDAY, DEC. 20

Parks, Equestrian and Community Services Commission 5:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano City Parks, Equestrian and Community Services Commission will hold a meeting open to the public. People can attend in person or watch online through the city website. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 22

Planning Commission 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting.

The public can attend in person or watch online at the city website. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 24

The next print issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

The fundraising goal for this year is for tens of thousands of dollars.

Donations can be made to the San Juan Children’s Education Foundation online through GoFundMe or by mail at 32158 Camino Capistrano, Ste. A-122, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 92675.

Beneficial activities cited by teachers include hiking, meeting new friends from other schools, or getting to look at stars through a telescope. Students may not otherwise get a chance to participate in those activities, according to faculty members.

Businesses that reportedly have sponsored OSS so far include Feed Barn, Chick’s Plumbing, and Capistrano VW. OSS will follow pandemic health guidelines. thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON RMV

OC Supervisors Approve Funding Mechanism for Rienda Utilities

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

n order to provide funding for infrastructure such as roads and facilities in Rancho Mission Viejo’s newest neighborhood, the Orange County Board of Supervisors gave the green light for the levy of a special tax and bond debts in the Rienda development during a meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 7.

The bond debts are not to exceed $165 million, according to a county staff report. A reimbursement agreement with RMV was approved by the board in January, in which RMV is required to periodically advance funds to the county to “cover all costs associated with retaining the financing professionals, as well as county staff time.”

Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, whose area includes RMV, briefly addressed the matter before the board approved the agenda item.

“I just want to reiterate that, with regard to the authorization of the levy of special taxes, it’s not the county at large,” Bartlett said. “This is specific to the community of Rienda within the Rancho Mission Viejo development, which is in the unincorporated area of the county— and so the homeowners are responsible for this special levy.”

Other supervisors and members of the public did not comment on the matter during the Dec. 7 meeting.

The board approved a resolution of intent regarding the bonds back in Octo-

New amenities and homes are under construction for Rienda, the newest development opening soon in Rancho Mission Viejo. Orange County officials recently approved a special tax levy for the area’s homeowners. Photo: Collin Breaux

ber, and a resolution determining their necessity on Nov. 23. Full approval of the levy will become official during a second

reading at a Dec. 14 meeting.

Homes and amenities for the Rienda development are currently under con-

struction, and they are expected to open in 2022. Price ranges have not yet been set. CD

NEW BUSINESS PROMOTES ACTIVE LIFESTYLE A

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

s owner Derek Strader puts it, Coastal Carts and Out-Fit Fitness is aligned with the Rancho Mission Viejo ethos of wellness and being physically active.

The new company at the Los Patrones Business Park—an industrial center in RMV that houses a variety of business tenants—provides fitness equipment, fitness classes, and licensed golf carts. That last item is a popular mode of transportation throughout the master-planned community, where residents use golf

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10-23, 2021

carts to travel to the area’s shopping centers and outdoor recreation spots.

Strader isn’t just a business owner working at The Ranch—he also lives in the community. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, he saw his neighbors get more into using fitness equipment, which seemed like the right opportunity to open a shop in a place familiar to him.

“I provide a service to (my neighbors) that’s local and approachable,” said Strader, who’s called RMV home for two and a half years. “We’re here to stay, and we

absolutely love it.”

Coastal Carts and Out-Fit Fitness will also provide gym equipment for community fitness centers in RMV, including in the upcoming Rienda neighborhood. The business also aims to make registering golf carts with the state a seamless transition after customers purchase one.

E-bikes, which are becoming popular, are also available for purchase.

Seeing Los Patrones Business Park gradually take off with more and more businesses opening is “wonderful,” Strader said.

“There’s a real need for local com-

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merce,” he said. “There’s a Pilates place.

There’s a winery. I think it’s awesome to provide access to residents where it’s a few minutes away from your home.”

He predicts future opportunities for his own store are extensive, given the eventual advent of Rienda and all the new homes being built over the coming years.

Coastal Carts and Out-Fit Fitness officially opened on Dec. 4, and it had a soft opening in October. Visit coastalcartsandfitness.com and out-fit.net for more information. CD

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HOLIDAY

Happenings FRIDAY, DEC. 10

Boat Parade of Lights

7:30 p.m. Prepare to be dazzled at night while near the water during the 46th annual Boat Parade of Lights. Enjoy the decorated boats while spending time at the harbor. The event also runs at the same time on Dec. 11 and at 6 p.m. on Dec. 12. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. 949.388.3663. danapointharbor.com.

Holiday Storytelling

7:30 p.m. Bring the kids to hear seasonal tales with Santa at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Donations of new children’s books will be collected for Miracles for Kids. The event also runs at the same time on Dec. 11, 17, and 18. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com.

SATURDAY, DEC. 11

Yule-Tide Market and Celebration

9-3 p.m. Celebrate Christmas in a unique coastal way at Ocean Institute. Bring the family to get a photo with Santa or a mermaid. This event requires a ticket purchase. There will also be a mermaid and elf show at various times, and a holiday market with vendors and crafts makers will be held in the Ocean Institute parking lot. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. oceaninstitute.org.

Sunsets with Santa

3-5 p.m. Get a photo with Santa at the San Clemente Pier, with the setting sun as a backdrop. Additional photo opportunities will also be available at certain dates.

Check the city website for specific times.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente.

949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 12

Gingerbread House and Holiday Cookie Decorating

2-4 p.m. Create your own seasonal treats with the family at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. The pastry experts at the resort will guide you through making a sweet memento for the holidays. Call resort services at 949.240.2000 to reserve your spot. Cost is $250 per gingerbread house. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. ritzcarlton.com.

TUESDAY, DEC. 14

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ Screening

6 p.m. Enjoy an outdoor screening of the holiday classic It’s a Wonderful Life at Casa Romantica. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 15

FIRST ANNUAL Boqueria Fiesta

4-6 p.m. Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano aims to bring the community together with this event featuring local artisans and vendors offering jewelry, candles, home décor, and more. There will also be live music, raffle entry opportunities, and an appearance by Santa. Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.503.5700. marriott.com.

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HOLIDAY

Happenings THURSDAY, DEC. 16

Holiday Painting Workshop

5-7 p.m. Learn how to paint miniature ornaments on canvas. Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.503.5700. marriott.com.

FRIDAY, DEC. 17

A Cabrillo Holiday Celebration

7:30 p.m. Join Cabrillo Playhouse for an evening of family-friendly songs celebrating the holidays. The event also runs at the same time on Dec. 18 and at 2 p.m. on Dec. 19. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. cabrilloplayhouse.org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 19

Winterscape & Festival of Trees

5:30-8 p.m. The Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park brings you this fun event, from Dec. 10-23. Activities will include the Festival of Trees, live music, appearances by Santa, ice skating, curling, and more. Take in the beauty of this outdoor park while enjoying Christmastime with your loved ones. Check the venue website for exact hours on each day and event costs. 30753 La Pata Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.299.7219. sanjuanoutpost.com.

Capistrano Lights

4-6 p.m. This annual South Orange County event returns with holiday programming, music, a nativity scene, extended hours for the Serra Chapel, and more. Marvel at

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

the historic grounds of the Mission during select evenings, running through Dec. 30. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. missionsjc.com.

THURSDAY, DEC. 23

Holiday Carolers at Dana Point Harbor 4-7 p.m. Listen to some seasonal tunes while enjoying the water and shops in Dana Point. Carolers will also be out on Dec. 23. 34675 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. 949.388.3663. danapointharbor.com.

FRIDAY, DEC. 31

New Year’s Eve at San Juan Hills GC

9:30 p.m. Say goodbye to 2021 and ring in 2022 with live music from local act Family Style. Doors open at 8 p.m., so you’ll have time to grab some food and drinks before dancing the night away.

Premium tickets are $140 per person. San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1167. sanjuanhillsgolf.com.

SATURDAY, JAN. 1

New Year’s Day with Donavon Frankenreiter

8 p.m. Enjoy the start of the new year with live music at The Coach House.

Have a seat, order some food and drinks, and get ready to relax with the mellow sounds of California-bred musician and surfer Donavon Frankenreiter. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

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The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

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SOAPBOX

PUBLISHER’S LETTER | By Norb Garrett

Good Things Happen in Threes

T

hey say good things happen in threes, so with that in mind …

First, I’m excited to announce that I’ve promoted Shawn Raymundo to managing editor for Picket Fence Media.

Shawn’s been with us for three years, first covering San Juan Capistrano as city editor for The Capistrano Dispatch, then moving over to the San Clemente Times to take over as San Clemente city editor two years ago.

He’s done a great job covering the City of San Clemente, earning numerous writ-

ing awards, and will continue to cover important news stories while also overseeing our newsroom and our city reporters. He can be reached at sraymundo@ picketfencemedia.com or 949.388.7700, ext. 113.

We’ve also hired a new San Clemente city reporter, C. Jayden Smith, to cover the daily happenings in the community. Jayden, who is from Dana Point and graduated from Dana Hills High in 2018, earned his journalism degree from the University of North Texas.

Jayden was most recently a staff reporter at the Salina Journal in Kansas. He can be reached at cjsmith@picketfencemedia.com or 949.388.7700, ext.108.

Lastly, some news about a hyper-local media network I’ve helped to create, which includes Picket Fence Media.

For the past 18 months during the pandemic, I reached out to fellow area independent, hyper-local community media owners in an effort to share ideas and resources as we all battled to stay alive and continue serving our communities.

Each week, for months on end, four other Southern California owners/pub-

lishers and I would get on Zoom calls and talk through ways to pivot our businesses and help each other not only survive, but hopefully thrive once the ruinous economic impact of the pandemic fades away (which, of course, it hasn’t yet).

The camaraderie led to the formation of a new community media advertising network, Southern California Community Media Network (socalmedianetwork.com), which we formally launched two weeks ago.

Now, any of our advertising partners who wish to reach potential consumers in nearby Laguna Beach or Newport Beach, or down in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Temecula, Fallbrook or all the way down to San Diego, can do so through our network, which reaches more than 1.7 million engaged readers.

I’m so grateful for the friendship, guidance and vision of my fellow publisher/ owners—Steve Zepezauer (Firebrand Media), Julie Reeder (Reeder Media), Chris Kydd (The Coast News) and Julie Main (San Diego Community Newspaper Group)— who helped form this new network.

So, please join me in congratulating Shawn, welcoming Jayden, and checking out our new network partners. CD

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Collin Breaux • 949.388.7700, x109 cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh • 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING Debra Wells • 949.388.7700, x104 debra@wellsadsolutions.com DISTRIBUTION Racks, Driveways, Subscriptions Inna Cazares • 949.388.7700, x111 icazares@picketfencemedia.com GENERAL MANAGER Alyssa Garrett • 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA CEO/FOUNDER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL Managing Editor Shawn Raymundo

GUEST OPINION | by Mechelle Lawrence Adams

Mission San Juan Capistrano Reminds Us of What Is Important at Christmastime

I

t’s that time of year when we can sometimes lose sight that Christmas is supposed to be a time for opening our hearts and slowing down in order to see the blessings around us.

Whether it’s the religious tradition of Catholicism established here by Father Serra, or the spiritual and emotional value of this aged landmark that welcomes our visitors, be they Christian, Jewish or Muslim, we see the Mission as being one of most powerful places in Orange County to represent this time of year. It is also a time for expressing gratitude for our native community who built the Mission.

For a bit of inspiration and reflection during this time, we invite you to experience our “Capistrano Lights Returns” programming throughout December.

Upon arrival, each guest is given a special prayer candle—regardless of one’s faith tradition—to be placed in the ruins of the Great Stone Church in appreciation for another year, in anticipation of a new year, and in gratitude for loved ones.

We hope you’ll join us to see the landmark in lights with the large-scale nativity in the ruins and invite you to support local vendors such as Bakery 3:16 and San Juan’s AR Workshop providing sweet

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10-23, 2021

treats and crafts. Enjoy hundreds of poinsettias provided by DM Color that add to the festive setting. There is a large-scale wreath for selfies or discover our new “Family Christmas Wreaths” sponsored by local families. Visitors will also enjoy the community Christmas GUEST OPINION trees representing

BY MECHELLE the town’s nonprofit LAWRENCE ADAMS organizations. There will Dickens-era Christmas carolers and even Santa Claus.

The evening is highlighted by a stunning musical Christmas tree lighting in which guests are transfixed by the site’s beauty while being reminded of the solemnity of the season. The Mission will be open a little later than usual during Capistrano Lights, with the Serra Chapel offering an extended hour for our guests.

The Mission’s Christmas events always remind me to be grateful.

Grateful for a new day. Grateful to history and those who made it happen.

Grateful to those who care and serve this place. In this, my 18th Christmas working

here, I am especially grateful to Mr. Tony Moiso for interviewing me many years ago and giving me the chance to ensure that Mission San Juan Capistrano remains the singular most sacred place in Orange County, where the emotional, spiritual and religious value of the season can be appreciated by anyone with the mindset to do so.

On behalf of all who serve here, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a Happy New Year. We hope to find you here.

Mechelle Lawrence Adams is the executive director of Mission San Juan Capistrano. The Orange County native is 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 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.

Page 16

City Reporter, SC Times C. Jayden Smith City Reporter, DP Times Breeana Greenberg City Editor, Capo Dispatch Collin Breaux Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh Columnists Fred Swegles Tom Blake Special Projects Editor Andrea Papagianis-Camacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes (DP) Advertising Sales Debra Wells (CD) Laura Gaffney (SC) ART + DESIGN Art Director Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS General Manager Alyssa Garrett Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares FINANCE Accounting & Finance Manager Tricia Zines CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 19, Issue 23. 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 2021. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPO DISPATCH

FACEBOOK.COM/CAPODISPATCH • INSTAGRAM @CAPODISPATCH TWITTER.COM/CAPODISPATCH • LINKEDIN PICKET FENCE MEDIA

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CLASSIFIEDS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@thecapistranodispatch.com DEADLINE 12PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. GARAGE/ESTATE SALE - FRIDAY, DEC. 10 Friday, Dec. 10th, 9 am to 2 pm. 3804 La Quinta, San Clemente (across from Trader Joe’s) Antiques, Jewelry, Kitchen items, Crystal, Glassware, & much more.

GARAGE SALE - SATURDAY, DEC. 11 Garage sale this Saturday, Dec. 11 from 8 am to 12 at 34442 Via Verde, Capistrano Beach. cross streets are Via Verde and Camino Capistrano. Lots of Christmas stocking stuffers, clothing, housewares.

HUGE GARAGE & PLANT SALE - SATURDAY, DEC. 11 Designer Women’s clothes, Trafalgar Smoker, Vintage/Estate items, furniture, toys and more! Sat. Dec. 11, 8a-2p, 6 ft. or mask please. 26622 Calle Lago Capistrano Beach

LAND TRADE/EXCHANGE LAND TRADE/EXCHANGE 80 acres of land, Kern County, California Trade or Exchange, Call (909)985-2677

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

LIST LOCALS ONLY. USE LOCALS ONLY. Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 for pricing

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10-13, 2021

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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

SATURDAY | 11 DRIVE-THROUGH DONATION DROPOFF Saturday | 11 and Sunday | 12, noon-3 p.m. Bring donations for clothes, non-perishable foods, non-violent toys, and household items to benefit Laura’s House, Project Hope Alliance, and Thomas House Family Shelter. There will be live music, and donations will be collected in The Coach House parking lot. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

SUNDAY | 12 LIVE THEATER AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE 2 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse is fully open again for a regular performance season, after being shut down throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Come see A Christmas Story, a rendition of the classic holiday movie. The show runs through Dec. 19. 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.

THURSDAY | 16 THIRD THURSDAY ART EVENT 4-6 p.m. Every month on the third Thursday, join a Mission Fine Art Gallery artist for a workshop or demonstration on the beautiful grounds of Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano. Jennifer Matthews will teach participants how to The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

Celebrate the Christmas season at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park during WinterScape. Photo: Collin Breaux

FRIDAY-THURSDAY | 10-23 WINTERSCAPE Times vary. Enjoy live music, appearances by Santa, ice skating, ice curling, and more throughout December during this new event.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, 30753 La Pata Road, San Juan Capistrano.

949.299.7219. sanjuanoutpost.com.

make a ready-to-hang canvas ornament.

Enjoy tapas and a glass of wine while you get into the creative holiday spirit.

Reservations can be made online. Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.503.5700. marriott.com.

later in the day at 7 p.m. Trevor’s at the Tracks, 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.9593. trevorsatthetracks.com.

949.493.3188. swallowsinn.com.

SATURDAY | 18

FRIDAY | 17

MUSIC AT SWALLOW’S INN 2-6 p.m. Come enjoy a drink and enjoy some live music at this famous downtown bar. Feed the Kitty Band will perform. The James Kelly Band will also perform inside at 9 p.m., and Marie J outside at 8 p.m. Swallow’s Inn, 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

MUSIC AT PADDY’S STATION 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Michael Kelly will play Irish songs on the patio. English Joe will play later in the day, from 6-9 p.m.

Drop by, order a pint and some fish and chips, and relax while enjoying the view of downtown San Juan Capistrano, as well as seeing faces old and new. Paddy’s Station, 26701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano. 949.301.2276. paddysstation.com.

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. Selly & The Stray will perform. Anesha Rose will perform

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SUNDAY | 19

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GETTING OUT

ON STAGE AT THE COACH HOUSE

Molly Bergman, Mad Dogs and the Englishman

Singer, songwriter Molly Bergman. Photo: Courtesy of Martin Bergman

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

S

outh Orange County’s own Molly Bergman will be returning to The Coach House in late December, when she’ll open for the Joe Cocker tribute band Mad Dogs and the Englishman. The Dec. 29 show will mark the Dana Hills High alumna’s sixth performance at the San Juan Capistrano venue.

Because she grew up in an artistic family, it was no surprise that Bergman followed in her parents’ footsteps, aspiring to go into show business. Bergman’s mother, Rita Rudner, is a comedian, and her father, Martin Bergman, is a producer, director and writer.

“I've been singing and writing songs forever,” says the young Bergman, who graduated from Dana Hills in 2020.

Bergman's interest in music began with piano. She started playing piano at 5 years old, studying classical piano.

At 6 years old, Bergman picked up the guitar. After going to a Hannah Montana concert, she became obsessed.

“The next day, I woke up and I asked my parents if I could have a guitar; they very nicely said yes and got me guitar lessons,” Bergman says. “And then with that teacher, I kind of just started writing songs, and it’s been the same ever since.”

Bergman says she likes the storytelling, ballad-type songs that singer-songwriters such as Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift write. She finds that she writes her own lyrics similarly.

She also has her dad to thank for her taste in older music.

“My dad has a big influence on my muThe Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

SHOW DETAILS What: Mad Dogs and the Englishman, with Molly Bergman as the opening act When: Wednesday, Dec. 29. Doors open at 6 p.m.; concert starts at 8 p.m.

Where: The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano For tickets or more info: thecoachhouse.com. Tickets are $20.

sic tastes,” Bergman says. “When I grew up, he would always play The Beatles, or Joni Mitchell or James Taylor.”

She has opened for, among others, Jewel, Michael McDonald, Train, and Sammy Hagar & Rick Springfield.

Bergman is currently an undergraduate at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, majoring in Modern Artistic Development and Entrepreneurship, with a minor in Creative American Music. She’s looking forward to winter break and the opportunity to perform again.

“I’m very excited, because I’m out at university and all my classes are very difficult at the moment, and I don’t have as much time to perform out here, so I’m very excited to come back home and be able to do that again,” Bergman says. CD Page 19

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SJC LIVING

GUEST OPINION | Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

The History of Putuidem Village

S

an Juan Capistrano continues to amaze and show how special a community we are.

While this year has been better than the past two, we are still far from leading a “normal” life. There are restrictions on travel, mask wearing, and vaccines. There are still groups that think tearing down the culture for which they do not approve is a positive direction for society. But San Juan Capistrano knows better. We do not tear down; we build up.

Earlier in the year, I wrote about the Randy Morgan sculpture that portrays the history of San Juan Capistrano. Located next MOMENTS IN TIME to Hennessey’s

BY JAN SIEGEL restaurant and across from Mission San Juan Capistrano, the sculpture captures the history and culture of our community.

We also have this year the dedication of the Putuidem Village on the Northwest Open Space on Camino Capistrano. Historically, Putuidem was one of the largest of the Acjachemen villages that sprang up around what is now San Juan Capistrano.

Once established, Putuidem became a mother village, with more and more villages breaking off and starting their own. Putuidem was created by Chief Oyaison, who was leader of the village of Sejat, but as that population grew, there was not sufficient food and game to support all the families. Therefore, the Chief and his daughter, Coronne, as well a few families, left Sejat and journeyed to find a new home.

Putuidem was founded because of its natural and plentiful water supply.

Three major springs flow from the creeks to the village, bringing fish, wildlife and game, as well as water for the people of the village. Once the village was established, Chief Oyaison appointed his daughter Chief, and he returned to Sejat. Coronne led the village for more than 20 years.

Signage at the village recalls the name. “It was called Putuidem, which means navel sticking out, because Coronne had an outie navel.”

Putuidem and the surrounding areas continue to be home to the AcjacheThe Capistrano Dispatch December 10-23, 2021

Juaneno Band of Mission Indians member Jacque Tahuka-Nunez helps to celebrate the opening of Putuidem Village at the Northwest Open Space in San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Collin Breaux

men people. When Father Serra established the Mission, he called it San Juan Capistrano de Quanis-savit. Quanis-savit is the name of the Acjachemen village that was here. He wanted to acknowledge the local people.

Putuidem Village will be an educational, cultural and meeting center for the Acjachemen people and for all the residents and visitors to San Juan Capistrano. The re-creation of village life of the 10,000-year-old society will add greatly to history of the oldest community in Orange County, San Juan Capistrano.

Spend a “Moment in Time” this holiday season and visit the Randy Morgan sculpture and Putuidem Village. Experience what happens when a community builds up its culture, rather than tearing it down.

Happy holidays to all. Wishing you all a very Happy New Year.

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.

Photo: Collin Breaux

WHAT’S HAPPENING | PHOTO FROM THE COMMUNITY The annual Capistrano Lights holiday program at Mission San Juan Capistrano has fully returned this December. View more photos of local holiday events at thecapistranodispatch.com.

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

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THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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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 20

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The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

Page 21

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

SAN JUAN 2021-22 WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW A

league to a basketball powerhouse, Capistrano Valley Christian boys basketball has grown from a “good small-school team” to just plain good.

Since head coach Chris Childress joined the program in 2017, the Eagles have steadily grown to win a CIF-SS Division 3A title in 2019 to a No. 2 ranking in Division 2AA this season.

And CVC, ranked No. 5 in the county, had to improve, because Fairmont Prep (No. 2) has grown to a Division 1 program and Pacifica Christian (No. 11) has continued its rise.

The Eagles (6-0) have been led by senior guard Mac West, averaging 27.5 points per game, as well as the size and athleticism of Ariik Mawien, Bence Duka and Athian Athian.

CVC opens league play at Pacifica Christian on Jan. 4 and hosts Fairmont Prep on Jan. 11.

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

s the 2021-22 sports calendar dips into winter, the winter sports season actually gets to be played in the winter.

Last year, the winter sports were pushed into the spring, and while they were able to have more of a full season than their fall sports counterparts, winter sports teams were among the most affected by pandemic restrictions due to playing indoors.

Back in the days of colored tiers, indoor sports were extremely limited until approved to start, and when the teams did start playing, testing was required ahead of every game, and masks were required of every player. The mask requirement is still there for coaches and fans this season, but with the now weekly testing plan in place, athletes won’t be required to wear masks.

San Juan Capistrano is loaded with winter sports talent and more than its fair share of highly ranked teams looking to capture league championships and achieve CIF-SS playoff success.

San Juan Hills Boys Basketball The San Juan Hills boys basketball team finally broke through to capture its first-ever league championship last season, as the Stallions topped the Sea View League with a 10-4 overall record and a 5-1 league record.

While San Juan Hills graduated its team and league MVP, the Stallions return plenty of impact players as the program takes the next step in its competitive journey. San Juan Hills, ranked No. 2 in CIF-SS Division 2A, should be favored to repeat as league champions and has eyes on a deeper CIF-SS playoff run.

San Juan Hills (10-2) is paced by leading scorer Mark Reichner, a senior guard, and returning first-team all-league senior guard John McFadden.

The Stallions open league play on Jan. 7 at home against Aliso Niguel.

San Juan Hills Girls Soccer The San Juan Hills girls soccer team had a breakthrough of its own last season, as the Stallions finally toppled the South Coast League. San Juan Hills went unbeaten in league with a 4-0-4 record.

Last year’s performance, paired with a blistering 4-0-1 start, has earned San Juan Hills a No. 3 ranking in CIF-SS Division 1.

When this senior class began competing as freshmen, the Stallions made their deepest playoff run in a quarterfinal loss The Capistrano Dispatch December 10-23, 2021

St. Margaret’s Boys Basketball to eventual champion JSerra. Now, these seniors are ready for the next step.

San Juan Hills is led by returning allleague players Taylor Christenson and Lexi Wright, both seniors, and junior Peyton Leonard.

The Stallions open league play at Trabuco Hills on Jan. 4 and host San Clemente on Jan. 6.

San Juan Hills Girls Water Polo San Juan Hills’ best shot at a CIF-SS title in the winter season might just be this girls water polo group.

In their first season in the South Coast League last season, the Stallions went 8-1 overall and 3-1 in league in the shortened season. This season, San Juan Hills has jumped out to a 4-0 start, with 76 goals scored and only 29 against. On Tuesday, Dec. 7, the Stallions dominated JSerra, 21-6.

San Juan Hills is ranked No. 1 in CIF-SS Division 2, and while San Clemente is still the league favorite, the Stallions are ready to give their best shot.

San Juan Hills opens league play at Dana Hills on Jan. 6 and hosts San Clemente on Jan. 18.

JSerra Boys Basketball The JSerra boys basketball team has its sights set high.

Coming into the season, the Lions were ranked among the best teams in California, and JSerra is currently ranked No. 6 in Orange County. However, despite a dominant 4-0 start before their first loss

San Juan Capistrano has some high-flying high school basketball teams, including a handful of schools ranked in their respective CIF-SS divisions. Photos: Zach Cavanagh

on Wednesday, the Lions aren’t ranked in CIF-SS Division 1.

Those accolades will come in time, as this talented JSerra group makes its way through a tough tournament season to prepare for the Trinity League gauntlet.

The Lions have had a different leading scorer in nearly every game this season, with only senior guard Robert Diaz and sophomore guard Aidan Fowler posting team-high point totals more than once.

JSerra opens the Trinity League at home against Santa Margarita on Jan. 5

Capistrano Valley Christian Boys Basketball Just as the San Joaquin League overall has gone from a “good for small schools”

Page 22

The St. Margaret’s boys basketball team has already bounced back from a disappointing season in the spring.

Last season, the Tartans were 5-13 overall and just 1-7 in the increasingly tough San Joaquin League. This season, St. Margaret’s is off to an 8-1 start and a No. 4 ranking in CIF-SS Division 4AA. The Tartans need to keep up this nonleague pace before going up against some of the top teams in the county in league play, including Fairmont Prep Anaheim, Pacifica Christian and Capistrano Valley Christian.

St. Margaret’s opens league play at Capistrano Valley Christian on Jan. 13 and hosts Pacifica Christian on Jan. 18.

Fairmont SJC Boys Basketball Boys basketball is the lone CIF-SS winter sport at the Fairmont San Juan Capistrano campus, and the program has an uphill fight in front of it.

The Warriors have gone through a transition after the school changed from Saddleback Valley Christian following the Fairmont purchase. However, Fairmont SJC was able to post a 9-4 nonleague record last season before running into the San Joaquin League buzzsaw, resulting in a 1-7 league record.

This season is unfortunately much tougher for the Warriors, as they’ve started out 1-11 and the league competition is even more challenging.

Fairmont SJC hosts Capistrano Valley Christian to open league play on Jan. 6 and hosts St. Margaret’s on Jan. 27. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

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The Capistrano Dispatch December 10–23, 2021

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