May 24, 2019

INSIDE: Spring Aging Well: For the Young at Heart SPECIAL SECTION

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

MAY 24-JUNE 13, 2019 • VOLUME 17, ISSUE 10

Welcome to the Skate Jam

The Spring Event Provides Haven for Local Skateboarders E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 5

Chance Moreno, a 25-year-old Rancho Mission Viejo resident, gets some air while participating in the Spring 2019 Skate Jam at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center on Saturday, May 18. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

City Approves Rate Hikes to Downtown Parking EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

City Sues Insurance Company, Blenheim EYE ON SJC/PAGE 4

thecapistranodispatch.com

Little League Bestows First Dave Rosa Awards SPORTS/PAGE 28

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week City Approves Temporary Rate Hikes to Downtown Parking Structure THE LATEST: Parking rates are set to increase at the Franciscan Plaza Parking Structure in San Juan Capistrano’s downtown corridor this summer.

In a 3-1 vote, the City Council on Tuesday, May 21, approved a resolution to temporarily raise parking fees at the structure on Verdugo Street. Councilmember Derek Reeve opposed the plan while Councilmember John Taylor was absent from the meeting.

The raised parking rates will coincide with a summer-time pilot program the council approved of earlier this month to offer valet parking services to visitors in San Juan’s downtown district.

Reeve said his opposition was related to his doubts about the program’s “temporary” status.

“My concern is that pilot programs, temporary government programs are not temporary. I’m concerned that this won’t end at the end of summer,” he said, proposing that the council include a sunset clause in the resolution to ensure the program ends after the summer.

The council voted without including such a clause in the resolution, however, the city has stated in its reports for both programs that the increased rates and the valet services are scheduled to begin Friday, June 7, and end Monday, Sept. 2.

Under the temporary rate structure, spaces 1 through 73, which are designated for Metrolink commuters and currently costs $2 for daily use, will cost $2 from 7 to 10 a.m. on weekdays and then $2 hourly between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. On the weekends, the Metrolink spots would cost $2 an hour with a three-hour limit all day.

The Amtrak overnight parking spots, 74 through 108, would increase from $0.25 an hour or $6 daily to $12 a day. The current limit for those spots is 14 consecutive days, but under the summer rates, the spots would be limited to 72 hours.

The free spots—spaces 109 through 352—would cost $2 an hour, with a threehour limit from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

Canisters wrapped in plastic await to be filled with nuclear fuel rods containing spent nuclear fuel at a SONGS loading area. Photo: Cari Hachmann

The resolution also authorized the city to purchase a new $1,300 pay station that will be installed on the second floor of the parking garage. City Manager Ben Siegel explained that the second pay station is meant to accommodate visitors who park in the upper levels of the garage.

The city also noted that it intends to put up new signage in the downtown corridor along Verdugo, as well as Camino Capistrano and Ortega Highway, to direct motorists to off-street parking options.

The city proposed the rate increases after hearing from downtown business owners who have raised concerns about parking availability for patrons. By hiking the price for certain spots and charging for spaces that are currently free, businesses hope to increase turnover.

The “proposed rate increases are intended to deter employee parking and long-term vehicle storage in these highly desired parking spaces, while also promoting parking turnover in the structure,” the city’s report stated.

The city also notes that the proposed rates are based off the parking meter rates of other destination communities such as San Clemente and Laguna Beach.

WHAT’S NEXT: After the pilot programs end in September, city officials are expected to put together an analysis that will be presented to the council in the fall.

Siegel said much of the analysis would be based on anecdotal evidence, including meeting with the downtown business owners to see what customers have said about parking. Gauging a level of “success” would be difficult, Siegel acknowledged, noting that a study could be done during the program, though that’s usually just a snapshot in time.

“Frankly, this is one of those issues where anecdotal feedback is more impor-

tant,” Siegel said.—Shawn Raymundo

NRC Gives Edison the OK to Download Spent Nuclear Fuel at SONGS Again THE LATEST: Southern California Edison (SCE) has been given the green light to resume its ongoing efforts to transfer spent nuclear fuel at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) into dry storage, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) announced Tuesday, May 21.

Though the NRC has provided the go-ahead, SCE has yet to determine when it will officially restart downloading the nuclear fuel into canisters for its storage facility.

“The ultimate decision on when fuel transfer operations will resume will be made following a careful review of operational readiness by SCE and our contractor,” SCE said in a press release. “SCE will continue to provide timely updates to the community and our stakeholders as we move through this process.”

Edison and its contractor, Holtec International, suspended transfer operations following an incident this past August.

During the incident, a canister carrying spent fuel was being lowered into a vertical receptacle but wasn’t aligned properly, causing it to get stuck on a guiding ring.

While the misalignment was corrected and the canister properly stored, the incident should have prompted SCE to notify the commission within 24 hours of it occurring—a point Edison officials have since acknowledged.

The NRC imposed a fine of $116,000 to Edison over the incident itself and not for missing the 24-hour notification deadline,

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news files state.

Since the August incident, SCE said, it has conducted a “comprehensive review” of its transfer operations and has made adjustments to its program “through better procedures, better training, and more intrusive oversight.”

“This, in part, includes the addition of cameras and load monitoring equipment, which will provide valuable information during download operations,” John Dobken, the media relations manager at SCE, said in an email. “We have demonstrated these improvements are effective and sustainable through numerous dry runs, regulatory inspections and independent reviews.”

Edison officials have also explained that teams have been conducting dry runs during the loading hiatus to better improve procedures.

According to the NRC, its determination to allow Edison to resume operations was based on an “extensive review of technical data” that SCE submitted “regarding the possible effects of scratching on spent fuel canisters” during operations.

Issues of incidental contact have been raised by activists who have claimed that damage to the canisters carrying the spent fuel could weaken the canister’s protective stainless steel structure. Both Edison and the commission have disputed such claims, stating that any contact sustained would be minimal.

“SCE has also completed visual assessments of eight loaded canisters. The incidental contact that may occur during canister downloading, as the NRC recently re-affirmed, poses no impact to the safe storage of spent fuel,” Dobken said in the release.

WHAT’S NEXT: The NRC will hold a webinar Monday, June 3, from noon to 1 p.m. to discuss the resumption of fuel loading at SONGS. Those interested in viewing the webinar and submitting written comments can go to the NRC’s website to register.—SR

Litigation against Moulton Niguel Comes to an End THE LATEST: According to a settlement agreement released on Monday, May 20, Moulton Niguel Water District has agreed to pay $4.8 million in unpaid bills and legal fees to settle a lawsuit originally filed by Dana Point-based South Orange County Wastewater Authority in 2017.

The joint statement released by all parties involved in a lawsuit filed against MNWD was short and simple—unlike the litigation that had led to it.

The statement said that the agencies involved would work together in the future toward the betterment of the region and (Cont. on page 4) thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) the coastal environment.

The initial suit was filed by SOCWA in May 2017, alleging that since July 2016, MNWD had stopped making payments toward the upkeep of a SOCWA-run water treatment facility, which serves several cities, including Dana Point, Laguna Beach and parts of San Juan Capistrano.

In March, The Capistrano Dispatch reported that a preliminary court ruling placed MNWD on the hook for roughly $2 million in delinquent payments related to capital improvements and maintenance costs for a wastewater treatment facility at Aliso Creek.

The Riverside County Superior Court on Tuesday, Feb. 26, tentatively ruled that Moulton Niguel is responsible for paying its share of the bills toward the Coast Treatment Plant’s upkeep in Laguna Niguel until February 2030.

Moulton Niguel “is legally obligated to pay its proportional share of all costs, including capital costs and items, necessary to operate and maintain the Coastal Treatment Plant,” the tentative ruling states.

“This was how the judge interpreted the contract to establish a contract end date and to determine what money was owed,” said Joone Lopez, General Manager of MNWD. The Dispatch received a scanned version of a check for $4.8 million from MNWD to SOCWA dated May 20. According to a statement released by SOCWA, MNWD will pay approximately $2.1 million to cover past invoices dating back to July 1, 2016 and will pay approximately $2.7 million to reimburse legal costs incurred by Laguna Beach, South Coast and Emerald Bay during the dispute. Lopez stated that a breakdown of costs for the $2.7 million had not been part of the agreement discussion yet.

In the May 20 joint statement from SOCWA, Moulton Niguel, South Coast Water District, Emerald Bay Service District and the city of Laguna Beach, it read that in regard to litigation on the coastal treatment plant, the parties have agreed to resolve their differences on mutually agreeable terms.

As members of a joint agreement with SOCWA, Moulton Niguel, South Coast Water District, Emerald Bay Service District and the city of Laguna Beach are each required to pay a certain portion of costs to maintain the treatment plant.

According to a news release sent by Moulton Niguel Water District, all legal proceedings relating to this litigation, including potential jury trial, have been concluded as part of an agreement.

WHAT’S NEXT: “With litigation behind us, we will work to make necessary improvements, and then evaluate its size, cost and technology in an effort to optimize its longterm value to the region,” the Moulton Niguel Water District release states.

As for when the contract expires in 2030, Lopez says MNWD will “without a doubt” not be renewing a contract.—Lillian Boyd The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

City Sues Insurance Company, Blenheim to Recoup Losses Fighting Coastkeeper Lawsuit THE LATEST: In an effort to recoup its losses associated with fighting allegations that the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park contributed to pollution in San Juan Creek, the city of San Juan Capistrano is suing the park’s insurance provider, as well as the company managing the facility.

According to a summary of the lawsuit, which was filed with the Orange County Superior Court in early April, the city has a laundry list of allegations against Tokio Marine Specialty Insurance Company and Blenheim Facilities Management, LLC. The city argues that Tokio and Blenheim breached several aspects of their respective contractual agreements over the park by failing to repay the city for legal costs it incurred while settling last year’s Clean Water Act lawsuit with Orange County Coastkeeper.

According to the city, Tokio is in breach of its environmental insurance policy by not covering the city’s losses and costs for attorneys, experts and consultants, “despite agreeing that it had an obligation to do so.”

The city goes on to state that Tokio allegedly “breached the duty of ‘good faith and fair dealing,’ committed insurance bad faith, and engaged in unfair business practices by taking numerous acts to protect its own interest to the detriment of the City.”

Among such practices, the city is accusing Tokio of “threatening to ‘fire’ the city’s attorneys on the eve of the settlement of the Coastkeeper lawsuit in an attempt to force the city to accept lowered payment.”

Tokio could not be reached for comment as of press time.

In 2017, OC Coastkeeper, an environmental advocacy group, sued the city and Blenheim over claims that the riding park contributed to pollution in the San Juan Creek. Both the city and Blenheim have denied the allegation.

The city and Blenheim reached a settlement agreement with Coastkeeper in September 2018. Under the terms of the settlement, the city paid $1.9 million toward Coastkeeper’s attorney fees and must also pay $1 million to fund projects through the California State Parks Foundation.

The city also contends that Blenheim, which is included in the lawsuit, breached the “Riding Park Management Agreement.”

The contract, according to the city, “requires Blenheim to indemnify the City for any lawsuits or losses the City suffers in connection with operation of the Riding Park. The City contends that the Coastkeeper lawsuit is the type of lawsuit for which Blenheim must indemnify that City, and that Blenheim refused to do so.”

Wayne Call, Blenheim’s attorney, said the city’s suit against the management company is “without merit.”

“We regard the suit to be without merit insofar as Blenheim is concerned, and I intend to defend the case for Blenheim,” Call said.

When asked whether he believes the lawsuit is going to impact the company’s relationship with the city and willingness to operate the Riding Park, Call said they hope it doesn’t.

“We hope this won’t affect the relationship with the city of San Juan Capistrano,” he said.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Orange County court has scheduled a case management conference on Aug. 8 for the attorneys and judge to discuss how to handle the case.—SR

River Street Marketplace Takes Step Forward THE LATEST: With a show of overwhelming support from the community, plans to build a marketplace development alongside San Juan Capistrano’s historic Los Rios District cleared a couple of hurdles on Tuesday, May 14.

The Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the River Street Marketplace project will soon go before the San Juan Capistrano City Council for certification, as the Cultural Heritage Commission and Planning Commission each voted to move the report forward.

However, the Planning Commission’s approval to send the EIR to the council came with some caveats. Some of those conditions include a requirement that the developer, Dan Almquist, make a commitment to prohibit weddings and amplified noise at the marketplace, as well as consider implementing a smoking ban.

Since 2016, Almquist has proposed building the “pedestrian-oriented” marketplace on the southeast corner of Paseo Adelanto and River Street. The plan is to include nearly 65,000 square feet of “indoor and outdoor dining, farm fresh produce, and unique retail venues” across five buildings, according to the city.

To show off “San Juan’s agricultural roots,” as Almquist stated, the buildings in the marketplace would be designed with a craftsman and California vernacular theme, while the landscape incorporates a California-native palette.

The marketplace, Almquist said, would steer away from retail chains and instead cater to “artisan-type” businesses while creating a community gathering place.

Almquist noted that the project has gone through a series of iterations and changes, as he’s worked with the city and community to address concerns related to lighting, noise, security and parking.

Based on concerns brought up in the EIR regarding light poles along the east side of the development—which sits directly behind several homes on Los

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Rios—the city noted that Almquist has revised the design to instead use bollard lights. The city also noted that there will be nearly 300 parking spaces.

As for safety concerns, Almquist assured commissioners that there would be 24-hour security on the premises and that the eastern strip between the buildings and Los Rios homes would be an emergency-access road only.

During the Cultural Heritage and Planning meetings, which were held back-toback, commissioners heard from several San Juan residents, many of whom spoke at both meetings. The majority of those who weighed in on the project voiced support, believing it would be great for the city’s economy and business sector.

Carolyn Franks, owner of ZOOMARS Petting Zoo in the Los Rios District, called the marketplace a true “game-changer,” because it could increase foot traffic to the local businesses already in the district, as well as deter homeless individuals from camping in the area.

Los Rios “really needs help; businesses there are barely getting by,” she said, adding that the project “will really reenergize Los Rios.”

Local resident Stacey Fitts questioned why residents wouldn’t want such a project in their backyard and said she’s “very supportive” of the development and wished it had been around when her kids were growing up.

She also said she’s “really excited for it” and will “meet everyone there for a drink in a couple of years.”

While there was considerable praise for the project, there were a handful of opponents who came to City Hall to speak out against it.

One such opponent was Jeff Vasquez, who lives on Los Rios Street. Vasquez, who provided visual aids with his own renderings of how the project will look from the nearby residents’ perspective, raised concerns regarding the buildings being backed up against his yard.

He also warned that “the commercial activity will drive out residency on Los Rios” and have a “detrimental effect.”

Addressing the project’s critics, Stephen Rios, the current owner and occupant of the historic Rios Adobe, which has been passed down through his family for more than 200 years, said he’s not deterred by the project, stating that it’s “certainly going in the right direction” and is happy to see that it enforces the city’s agricultural roots.

“Those that oppose the project have never brought, to my knowledge, any project that had any viability that can be seriously considered as an alternative,” Rios said.

WHAT’S NEXT: If the council certifies the EIR, Almquist would then need to prepare construction drawings and submit a building permit to the city, according to City Manager Ben Siegel. The council is likely to consider the project’s EIR in June or July.—SR thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Welcome to the Skate Jam The Spring Event Provides Haven for Local Skateboarders

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

W

henever you see a group of skateboarders practicing kick flips in parking lots, it’s a safe bet that they’ll eventually be chased out by security or the police.

But on a breezy May afternoon in San Juan Capistrano, the parking lot of the city’s community center was a haven for skateboarders who got to use quarter pipes and ramps to work on their tricks without the worry of local law enforcement intervening.

That’s because of the SJC Skatepark Coalition, a nonprofit organization that’s working to raise money toward the construction of a skate park in San Juan.

The coalition hosted its Spring 2019 Skate Jam on Saturday, May 18, attracting skaters from all over South County to the Community Center, where a portion of its parking lot was turned into a makeshift skate park.

The event—the third of its kind the group has held in the past year—was meant to show the community that there’s a significant need to get a skate park built in the city. Touching on his own childhood, Skatepark Coalition President Peter Carey recalled not having a place to skate while growing up.

“Even back when I was a kid, when I used to skate, we couldn’t really skateboard in residential or business districts; there’s not a place to skate,” Carey said.

“Like every sport, you’ve got soccer fields to go play soccer, baseball fields to go play baseball. These kids need a place to skate, that’s what it’s really all about,” he said. “They’ll just go skate anywhere and get kicked out. Businesses don’t want to take that liability; you don’t want kids skating in front of your house, or where there’s traffic.”

Steve Raubolt, a Ladera Ranch resident and parent, echoed Carey’s sentiments, noting that without a designated park to skate in, kids are likely to inadvertently damage property while practicing tricks.

“If they’re not here, what are they doing? They’re probably skating in neighborhoods, skating in shopping centers, damaging property . . . you know, not on purpose, but when they’re grinding and jumping and going over rails and things

Dozens of skateboarders throughout South County participate in the Spring 2019 Skate Jam at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center on Saturday, May 18. Photos: Shawn Raymundo

The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

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like that, it damages property,” he said.

Raubolt said his 14-year-old son, Steven, wanted to come to the Skate Jam to help support the Coalition’s cause.

“That’s all he does, is hang out at skate parks after school and on the weekends,” Raubolt, 40, said. “And so we know San Juan Capistrano doesn’t have its own skate park, so he’s down here to support it.”

Pointing to the issue of safety, Raubolt further explained that a skate park could provide a safer alternative for kids.

“What ends up happening is when the

kids are skateboarding out on the streets, they don’t wear helmets and they don’t have any instruction, so they’re just out being careless,” Raubolt said, adding that in a controlled environment “you can require kids under 18 to wear pads, you can require them to wear helmets, you can have them sign waivers, you can educate them on how to be safe; otherwise, they’re just roaming around.”

The San Juan Capistrano City Council approved the conceptual design of the proposed skate park in March 2017.

Standing in the way of its construction: securing funding.

The park, which was designed by Spohn Ranch, Inc., a Los Angeles-based skate park developer, is estimated to cost close to $2 million.

“The design incorporates local skateboard history, an area for beginner skateboarders, and will make San Juan Capistrano home to a world-class action sports facility,” according to the city.

At the beginning of the year, Carey emphasized the goal of 2019 is to raise $1 million toward the skate park.

However, the coalition’s major fundraising efforts haven’t begun yet, according to Tina Auclair, the coalition’s treasurer. She explained that since the coalition received its nonprofit status this past December, the group’s attention has been toward garnering support for the park.

“We have nearly 1,000 signatures so far, and this last skate jam helped show the need for a skate park in SJC, with close to 100 skaters and even more spectators,” Auclair said in an email.

Before working on a big push to get donors, the group has also been putting together a Memorandum of Understanding with the city. The MOU is meant to establish a formal relationship between the city and the coalition.

“We have drafted an MOU proposal for the city that includes their help with e-blasts, booth space at events, etc.,” she wrote. “We also look forward to their continued support in determining the best way we can get this job done.”

To attract corporate sponsors, the coalition is also seeking approval from the city to offer potential donors naming rights on certain parts of the park, Auclair said.

“Our plans for the near future include continuing to raise awareness and gather support within the community until we can get together with the city to obtain approval on things like naming rights for bricks, bowls and overall park naming rights,” she wrote in the email. “Once that happens, we will be focused on the next level of corporate fundraising.”

Carey said the coalition is dedicated to reaching its $1 million goal—even if it takes a bit longer to get there.

“If we have to raise a million (dollars), it’s going to take us a little longer than we want, but I think if we raise a large chunk of money and we show the awareness and need for the park, that that will get some things done for us,” Carey said.

“We want to see someone break ground and start building it; let’s get it done,” he said. “If it ends up being a $2 million park, fantastic. If it ends up being something smaller, fantastic. Ultimately, we can hope for the best, but just got to keep going.

We’re not trying to get caught up on how much money we have; we just want to get it done.” CD

thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Women Protest Abortion Bans on Estrella Overpass As a show of solidarity with other prochoice advocates who held rallies throughout the nation, a small group of women from the tri-city area gathered on the Camino De Estrella overpass on Tuesday, May 21, to protest a handful of abortion bans and restrictions that states have passed this year.

The #StopTheBan rallies called for an end to such laws that abortion rights advocates argue are an affront to women’s reproductive rights.

“We’re here because we’re pro-choice, and we believe women should have the freedom to choose. . . . These bans are illegal, and there’s women in these states that need our support, and a large group of men choosing what to do with my womb is not acceptable,” San Clemente resident Traci Arth-Streets said while holding a sign that read “Freedom of Choice” and waving to passing motorists.

States such as Georgia, Ohio, Kentucky and Mississippi, which have GOP-dominated legislatures, have recently passed laws that ban abortions after the detection of a fetal heartbeat, or roughly six weeks into the pregnancy—when many women aren’t aware that they’re expecting.

Other states have either passed or are considering similar legislation to the so-called heartbeat bills. Earlier this month, Alabama passed a law that allows a woman to have an abortion only if there is a serious health risk to herself or the fetus.

Alabama’s controversial law also prohibits abortions even in cases of rape or incest.

Proponents of the laws have acknowledged that the bills are meant to challenge Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court’s 1973 ruling that determined bans on abortions to be unconstitutional, as a woman who decides to terminate the pregnancy is protected under the nation’s “right of privacy” law.

Doreen Dailey of Dana Point criticized the lawmakers who passed these recent bills and stressed the privacy issue.

“I think the choice about abortion and birth control is very, very private,” she said, adding, “It has nothing to do with legislators who don’t know the circumstances.”

Arth-Streets and Dailey said they aren’t worried about any such law being passed in California, and that the concern is at the national level, because these bills are likely to be challenged in the Supreme Court, which now has a conservative majority.

Wildfire Mercantile to Add Men’s Department Wildfire Mercantile in San Juan Capistrano will be adding a new department that caters to menswear this June.

The expansion, which is to be called The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

TUESDAY, MAY 28 Planning Commission Meeting 6: 30 p.m. The city’s Planning Commission will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29

A handful of women from the tri-city area wave signs on the Camino De Estrella Overpass on Tuesday, May 21, to demonstrate against the wave of new abortion bans and restrictions that several states have recently passed. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

“Wildfire Mercantile Fine Menswear,” will incorporate the space behind the shop, formerly held by Rags & Stones, according to a press release from the store.

Though Wildfire has focused primarily on offering upscale women’s Western fashion since opening its doors in 2017, Susan and Troy Stansbury had envisioned expanding the store to include a men’s department.

“Adding a men’s department has always been in the plans; we just weren’t sure how to do it,” Susan said in the release. “Then the space behind us became available, so we said now is the time.”

Construction to remove the back wall separating the stores and develop the newly acquired space began on Wednesday, May 15. The store has been temporarily closed since May 20 to accommodate construction.

Wildfire is expected reopen on Saturday, May 25, and continue to operate during the remainder of the construction.

The Stanburys are eyeing a grand opening date of June 10, according the press release.

The Western store and gift boutique is located at 26850 Ortega Highway, Suite K, in San Juan Capistrano, directly across from the Mission.

Construction of New Passing Siding Track to Begin This Month Construction to add a new passing siding railroad track between San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Niguel is set to begin this month, according to the city’s weekly announcements.

In coordination with Metrolink and the two cities, the Orange County Transportation Authority will add nearly two miles of passing siding track that will run from Trabuco Creek in San Juan to the Laguna Niguel-Mission Viejo Metrolink station.

By adding the passing siding track, which will run adjacent to the existing track, trains traveling in opposite directions will be able to pass each other

without stopping.

“The project will reduce delays, increase safety and provide more reliable rail service,” the city stated in its announcements.

Construction is expected to be completed by early 2021 and will occur mostly during the day. The city notes that there is likely to be some weekend and nighttime construction throughout the project.

In those cases, advance notice will be given out prior the nighttime activities, as well as to notify residents of street closures.

More information about the project can be found on the OCTA website at octa.net.

Summer Trolley Service Rolls into SJC Next Month The free weekend trolley service returns to San Juan Capistrano next month.

Beginning June 7, those visiting San Juan’s downtown corridor on the weekends can utilize the trolley to get around the district.

The service will incorporate two trolleys on a 20-minute loop throughout the downtown district, extending from La Zanja and Camino Capistrano to Stonehill Drive and Del Obispo Street—the Dana Point Trolley connection.

The trolley is scheduled to run Fridays from 5-9 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. The program will also include holiday services for Independence Day on July 4 and Labor Day on Sept. 2, which will mark the end of this year’s program.

The service will also be offered from 4-9 p.m. during the San Juan Summer Nites Concert Series at HTC Park on certain Wednesdays this summer.

Tom Toman, the city’s public works director, can answer questions regarding the summer trolley service. He can be reached by phone at 949.234.4580 or via email at ttoman@sanjuancapistrano.org.

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

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

FRIDAY, MAY 31 Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Hennessey’s Tavern, 31761 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

TUESDAY, JUNE 4 City Council Meeting 5 p.m. The city’s governing body will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit sanjuancapistrano.org MONDAY, JUNE 10 Youth Advisory Board Meeting 5:30 p.m. The City’s Youth Advisory Board will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12 CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting 7 p.m. The Capistrano Unified School District governing body meets at district offices, 33122 Valle Road. To see the board’s agenda, visit capousd.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 13 Design Review Committee 4:30 p.m. The City’s Design Review Committee will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 14 The next edition of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON RMV

NEWS & HAPPENINGS AT THE RANCH

New Retirement Community Officially Opens in RMV

Events at The Ranch MAY 24

Educational Spirits Tasting

3:30-6:30 p.m. Join Gelson’s Market on The Ranch for in-store spirits tastings as it offers up samplings of Copalli White Rum. Gelson’s Market, 30731 Gateway Place, Rancho Mission Viejo.

949.226.5807. gelsons.com.

BY ANDREA CLEMETT, FOR THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Now that Reata Glen, Rancho Mission Viejo’s new senior living community, has opened its doors, it is anticipated to welcome more than 300 new residents beginning the week of May 28.

According to Reata Glen, the retirement community’s objectives are to provide seniors with maintenance-free villas and apartment homes with convenient services. The community will include 480 residential living apartment homes, featuring 20 variations of floor plans and views of the surrounding valley.

“Seniors in the area have been wanting something different, something fulfilling; a community with flexibility and lifestyle options they can’t find anywhere else,” Reata Glen Executive Director Suzanne Nasraty said in a press release. “And given the changing times, we’ve made it a top priority to provide seniors with a sense of security— they want to know that everything they’ve worked hard to attain in life is protected.”

The community will offer more than 200 activities per month, including amenities such as a putting green, a dog park, business center, billiards tables, card rooms, a movie theater and multiple dining venues.

RMV Attracts Homebuyers with Updated Website

BY ZARA FLORES, FOR THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

The tight-knit community of Rancho Mission Viejo welcomes potential homebuyers to the last working ranch in Orange County through its newly upgraded website.

The new website, RanchoMissionViejo.com, features an opening montage of the historic land on which RMV sits, “nestled between Cleveland National Forest and the historic town of San Juan Capistrano five miles from the beach.”

The website was designed by Greenhaus Agency, which works to create emotionally The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

Hilltop Bar Night & Swirl. Sniff. Sip.

Rancho Mission Viejo’s newest senior living community, Reata Glen, is set to welcome more than 300 new residents beginning the week of May 28. Photo: Courtesy of Reata Glen

There are also outdoor activities in the surrounding area for walking and cycling trails, with access from San Juan Creek Trail on the way to Doheny State Beach of Dana Point. With a neighboring health center, residents can access assisted living, memory care, as well as long-term care in a trained nursing center, if requested.

Continuing Life, the developer of the community, currently advises Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) and health centers in California, including Reata Glen, in providing business services and support for retirement communities.

The partnership has focused on extensive services in order to manage a sustainable community in accounting, maintenance,

housekeeping and home care. By creating a community that tackles many facets of retirement living, Reata Glen said it allows for seniors to experience comfort, freedom and peace of mind.

Reata Glen estimates that 300 jobs will be offered in the Rancho Mission Viejo vicinity, because it has partnered in building the community with California-based W.E. O’Neil Construction and KTGY Group Architects + Planning.

“Reata Glen is a wonderful addition to the Rancho Mission Viejo area,” Nasraty said in the release. “It represents a significant investment in senior living, provides a positive impact and adds another jewel to our community.”

compelling campaigns.

Stephanie Walker, director of marketing for Rancho Mission Viejo, LLC, said the website was developed in a collaborative effort between Greenhaus and The Ranch, resulting in more organic content, as well as an in-depth and intimate look at the community.

Since the website launched on April 23, the site visitation has significantly increased, and it’s had a very positive response from current residents and prospective buyers, according to Walker.

The ultimate goal of the new website was to simplify and streamline the information for users and showcase all of the unique qualities and amenities of the RMV community. One of the main benefits of the site is that a lot of the information and content provided to users is resident-driven, from the point of view of current residents.

For residents, the content allows them to express their thoughts on the community, while prospective buyers are able to view photos and read testimonials from those actually living on The Ranch.

The new website offers loads of information for everything RMV, from Esencia School to Gavilan 55+ Lifestyle. The community amenities include clubhouses, gyms, pools, playgrounds, parks, and wouldn’t be complete without nature trails and farms.

The list of amenities and events hosted in the community read more like a five-star resort than a community.

“The unique lifestyle found at Rancho Mission Viejo is unmatched by any other community in the region,” Walker said.

The website also offers a customizable search of homes for prospective buyers. The search for a new home can be narrowed down by price, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms and by neighborhood. Images and floor plans are readily available to get a better feel of the home, right from your computer screen.

The design of the website was created with Greenhaus’s attention to detail and RMV’s love for the community, which helped to capture and encapsulate the town’s feel and environment.

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5-9 p.m. The spacious event bar at The Hilltop Club is open every Friday evening, so come grab a drink, then stay for a hangout session with good friends and close neighbors. 65 Esencia Drive, Rancho Mission Viejo. 949.768.1882. ranchomissionviejo.com.

JUNE 1

Farm Stand

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Reap the benefits of living in a community with local farms. Visit the Esencia Farm Stand to pick up freshly harvested produce grown right here in Rancho Mission Viejo by your neighbors.

Esencia Farm, 75 Esencia Drive, Rancho Mission Viejo. 949.768.1882. Ranchomissionviejo.com.

JUNE 2

Caspers Park Foundation Nature Talk: Snake Bite Prevention and Treatment 10-11 a.m. This nature-themed lecture is held in association with the monthly meeting of Caspers Park Foundation volunteers. Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. For information regarding this event, please contact the Caspers Park Foundation via email at CaspersParkFoundatioalkn@gmail.com or by phone at 949.923.2210. rmvreserve.org.

JUNE 13

Lecture: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

7-8:30 p.m. A quarter of the world’s mammals are bats. These much-maligned creatures have a bad reputation, but do they deserve it? Join Michelle Rivers, bat enthusiast and UK Bat Worker, to discover the good, the bad and the ugly facts about the bats in your neighborhood and the rest of the world. You’ll discover the hidden lives of bats, their adaptations and why we should all love bats. Guest House in Rancho Mission Viejo, 11 Brioso Street, Rancho Mission Viejo. 949.625.6500. rmvreserve.org.

thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Note from the Publisher: Props from Our Peers

BY NORB GARRETT, OWNER AND PUBLISHER AT PICKET FENCE MEDIA

Picket Fence Media had a big night recently at the California Newspaper Awards event in Long Beach. Surrounded and joined by top editorial teams from around the state producing daily, weekly and online news, our outstanding editorial staff took home six awards as judged by their peers—an incredible achievement.

Topping the list was the San Clemente Times, which took home three second-place awards, followed by the Dana Point Times with two awards and The Capistrano Dispatch with one.

For the SC Times, Sports Editor Zach

Cavanagh won second place for his sports story about San Clemente High School’s football team beating Mission Viejo; Art Director Jasmine Smith and the entire edit/design team won second place for the Best of SC “Golden Ole People’s Choice Awards” special issue, and outgoing Senior City Editor Eric Heinz took OWNER & second for his photo story PUBLISHER on the Ocean Festival.

Norb Garrett For the DP Times, City Editor Lillian Boyd took fourth place for “Coverage of Local Government” leading up

to the city elections, while Smith and the edit/design team took fifth place for the Best of DP “Golden Lantern People’s Choice Awards” special issue.

And The Capistrano Dispatch took a fourth place award for the Best of San Juan Capistrano “Golden Horseshoe People’s Choice Awards” special issue by Smith and the entire editorial team.

All of us here are very proud of these awards and the recognition of our efforts by our peers, and I am particularly proud of our entire team here at Picket Fence Media and their tireless efforts to make a difference in our communities. Congratulations, everyone! 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 Shawn Raymundo, 949.388.7700, x108 sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh, 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Debra Wells, 949.322.4765 debra@wellsadsolutions.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com

Letters to the Editor IS THE CITY COUNCIL GIVING UP ON PRESERVING THE PAST? —MARK NIELSEN, San Juan Capistrano I find it ironic that the City Council recognized May as National Historic Preservation Month, when they seem to be working to undermine our town’s historic character and preservation. The Mission, Los Rios, our open space and downtown represent “real” historic California and are unique in the urban jungle of Southern California. The historic, small-village and equestrian character of our community defines who we are, and the preservation and enhancement of this character has been a fundamental responsibility and hallmark of our city’s leadership for decades.

The City Council is planning to repeal our Historic Town Center Master Plan (HTCMP) after the City spent more than $400,000 to expand the original 1995 Master Plan with an updated vision in 2010. Innumerable citizens gave input at workshops and hearings before the plan was ultimately approved. This current push to abandon our Historic Town Center Master Plan is wrong-headed, especially after decades of our General Plan recognizing the importance of treating our historic downtown and Los Rios District differently than the rest of our city. Our City Council wants to repeal this overall vision and just keep some of The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

the form-based code that gives specific building guidelines. That is like saying we want to repeal our Constitution, but “it’s OK because we are keeping a bunch of laws.” The laws lose their meaning and cannot be properly applied without the overarching vision and guidelines of the Constitution. Our General Plan is San Juan Capistrano’s Constitution, and the Historic Town Center Master Plan and Los Rios Specific Plan are part of that overall Constitution.

“

The plan’s purpose is to present the future vision of our Historic Town Center and ensure the historic character is preserved, enhanced and expanded over time.

—MARK NIELSEN, San Juan Capistrano

”

Why would anyone want to abandon the defining vision of our historic town center that is the reason so many of us chose to raise our families here? The City Council would have you believe it is because the plan has some inconsistencies and opens the city to future litigation.

That argument is pure spin as 1) the city has had a Historic downtown Master Plan for decades that previous Councils embraced; 2) while the 2010 Plan has some inconsistencies with the General Plan, a

previous Planning Commission identified specific fixes that can avoid repealing the Plan; and 3) the City Council only finds itself in court when it ignores the city’s General Plan or changes it to accommodate developers instead of forcing developers to conform to the city’s vision.

If you look at the recent development projects that have caused citizens to push back, they all involve changes to our General Plan and zoning laws. If the City Council is serious about avoiding more lawsuits, it should insist on developers meeting our standards. Instead, it appears our Council prefers to change our Constitution (General Plan) to accommodate developers or landowners, maximizing the value of their property at the expense of the rest of us and our historic village character.

The plan’s purpose is to present the future vision of our Historic Town Center and ensure the historic character is preserved, enhanced and expanded over time. Some goals include: “Preserve and honor the historic buildings and other resources of the Town Center; Enhance the design of all open spaces, including streets, parks, plazas, as a well-connected network of comfortable pedestrian-oriented public realms—the ‘outdoor rooms’ in which the life of the town may thrive; Support a village-scaled density with building massing that strengthens the pedestrian realm and historic character.”

How could any San Juan resident turn their back on such guidelines?

Abandoning this plan makes it easier to approve projects that do not conform to our historic town vision and is a dereliction of duty to the preservation

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GENERAL MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA Real Estate Sales > Debra Wells (SJC)

PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Shawn Raymundo

ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith

City Editor, DP Times > Lillian Boyd

Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex

City Editor, SC Times > Cari Hachmann

OPERATIONS

Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh

Finance Director > Mike Reed

Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho

General Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Copy Editor > Randall Youngman ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Susie Lantz (SC) > Debra Wells (SJC)

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Tim Trent EDITOR EMERITUS Jonathan Volzke

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 17, Issue 10. 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 2019. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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SOAPBOX and enhancement of our historic town center. The city’s motto is “Preserving the Past to Enhance the Future.” The City should be focused on amending and updating the Master Plan to fix the inconsistencies with the General Plan with full public input, not throwing up their hands and repealing the whole document. Preserving the past admittedly takes some work, but it is well worth the effort. Let’s call on our Council to do the work properly!

RIVER STREET PROJECT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED WITH BROADER FOCUS —MARK SPEROS, San Juan Capistrano The River Street project, for all the promise of additional sales-tax revenues and revitalizing our downtown, ignores a simple truth: The resulting traffic it must create results in gridlock that may paralyze the entire downtown! I would strongly encourage every resident to actually walk the property around 5 or 6 p.m. and consider the following: • If a tractor trailer (or even large truck) were making a delivery, how could it possibly access the site? It’s too tight a turn to make it on Los Rios (heaven forbid a car coming down the narrow Los Rios Street and prohibiting a truck from completing its turn … while straddling the railroad tracks … when a train comes).

Paseo Adelanto is a better choice, but with 300 cars coming in and out (along with all those businesses fronting Del Obispo directly to the south also creating traffic of their own), that street will be packed.

• Ghost Train—Spend any time at that intersection, especially during rush hour, and you’ll notice that not only do the railroad crossing gates close frequently for the still-unresolved “ghost train” crossings … but the additional RR-only dedicated traffic signals now stop traffic on their own accord, for no reason. What happens when a large truck is trying to negotiate access through Los Rios and the crossing gates go down?

• Gridlock—Mornings and evenings, Camino Capistrano and Del Obispo are completely gridlocked. Between all the schools, businesses and railroad crossings (real and ghost), it’s very common to sit in place without moving a car length at 5 p.m. through multiple traffic light cycles.

In reading through the city’s staff report, the traffic impact of the addition of 65,000 square feet of retail, 300 cars (and who knows how many delivery vehicles) is being deliberately minimized. Yes, the TR-2 section (traffic) of the Mitigation Monitoring Requirements mentions very minor revisions to Paseo Adelanto (restriping), but that road is not nearly wide enough to accommodate the anticipated traffic … and zero mention is made of the impact it will have along all of Del Obispo and Camino Capistrano. The response

The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

listed on page 2-65 R5-1 of the EIR is very limited on the viewpoint and suggested improvements.

At least with the Citibank—soon-to-be Chick-fil-A—application, there was some consideration of vehicular access on and off of Del Obispo, but this was for a single restaurant.

To avoid this project being the tipping point, I would encourage the city to consider this project in a broader focus, such as: • Requiring a broader traffic study to be conducted (during peak rush hour times) to accurately measure what the current traffic volume is for a half-mile in all directions from the intersection of Del Obispo and Camino Capistrano—and what the proposed, additional traffic would do to that flow. It should be mandated to coincide with the most active RR crossing time.

• Inclusion of a requirement that the Ghost Train issue be resolved prior to the start of construction.

• Boxing out the RR crossing area in paint to make it extra clear to residents and visitors to “Keep area clear.”

• Prohibiting tractor-trailers from turning right on Del Rios, lest they block traffic and/or get hit by a train.

• Requiring the synchronization of traffic signals on both Del Obispo and Camino Capistrano through the entire downtown area to move traffic more smoothly through the city.

• Enlarging Paseo Adelanto to allow for a much longer left-hand turn lane, while also providing a wider inbound lane for truck traffic. Also eliminating any curbside parking for its entire northern length to free up flow into and out of the proposed site.

Hopefully, this prompts additional discussion and consideration.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning. The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published.

CORRECTION: On page 15 of the May 10 edition of The Capistrano Dispatch, the Editor’s Pick photo was erroneously captioned. The photo, taken by Kristina Pritchett, featured Chris Isaak performing during the 20th annual Doheny Blues Festival at Doheny State Beach.

Page 9

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List What’s going on in and around town COMPILED BY STAFF

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

Saturday | 25 NATIVE BEES: THE BIOLOGY, THE BEEHAVIOR & THE PLANTS THEY LOVE 9:30-10:30 a.m. Southern California is a biodiversity hotspot, home to more than 700 species of native bees. As urban development marches on, native plant gardens can be a crucial stepping stone for wild bees. Join the Tree of Life Nursery as researchers from UC Cooperative Extension San Diego share the results of their studies in the nursery’s experimental garden, including show-and-tell with specimens of native and introduced insects. Tree of Life Nursery, 33201 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.728.0685. CaliforniaNativePlants.com.

LOW-COST PET VACCINE CLINIC 3:30-5 p.m. Pets Plus-San Juan Capistrano offers low-cost vaccinations for all dogs and cats on various Saturdays and Sundays. All veterinary services are provided by Vet Care Vaccination Services, Inc. Vaccination packages, microchips, physical exams, prescription flea control, fecal exams and diagnostic testing will all be available on site. Pets Plus, 32022 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

1.800.988.8387. vetcarepetclinic.com.

OC MEMORIAL WEEKEND SINGLES DINNER DANCE 6:30-11 p.m. Invite friends and come meet new people, even if you don’t dance.

Single+Passion Ministries is hosting its dinner and dance event, where guests can meet friendly people to celebrate a red, white and blue Memorial Day Weekend together. Cover charge of $20 without food and $15 with food. Bumpin Ballroom, 32953 Calle Perfecto, San Juan Capistrano. 951.440.4201. singlespassion.com.

COMEDYINTHEOC PRESENTS LIVE STAND-UP COMEDY 7:30-9:30 p.m. ComedyInTheOC presents “Lass Your Aff Off,” a monthly comedy show produced by veteran comedian Tom Riehl that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Featuring comedians from teleThe Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

EDITOR’S PICK The Hawaiian Surf Club of San Onofre celebrates its 26th annual Polynesian Festival and Luau Feast in 2016. Photo: File

SATURDAY, MAY 25: POLYNESIAN FESTIVAL & LUAU FEAST 10 a.m.-10 p.m. The Hawaiian Surf Club of San Onofre will host its 29th Anniversary Polynesian Festival & Luau Feast. Come enjoy a day and evening full of Polynesian music, art, dance, food, and culture. Polynesian dancers from all over Southern California will perform traditional dances in their native costumes accompanied by traditional Polynesian musicians. Vendors promoting beach lifestyle clothing, jewelry, crafts, and assorted Polynesian curios will exhibit their wares. Classic surf Woodies will be on display. David Matuszak will appear to sign his 1,500-page book, San Onofre: Memories of a Legendary Surfing Beach. So, bring the entire family, throw down a towel or chair on the grass, close your eyes and imagine you’re in the islands for a delightful Polynesian experience. San Clemente Community Center, 100 North Calle Seville, San Clemente. 949.361.8264. hawaiiansurfclub.org.

vision, radio, and comedy clubs across the country, each show runs about 90 minutes and is capped off by a national headliner. This month’s headliner is the very funny Tom Clark, with performances by Murray Valeriano, Steph Clark and Bob Ooten. Full bar and dinner menu available. Lots of free convenient parking. Doors open at 5 p.m. Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn, 2600 Avenida Del Presidente. 949.481.1222. Buy tickets at ComedyInTheOC.com.

Monday | 27 MEMORIAL DAY MURPH 8-10 a.m. Join the No Boundaries family on Memorial Day for its inaugural Memorial Day event called “Murph”— a workout created in honor of fallen soldier Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy.

The No Boundaries community and the CrossFit community at large will gather to complete this tough workout to honor the lives of all of those who have fought for and served the country. The workout event will consist of four heats, with the first one scheduled for 8:10 a.m. A $20 donation is required to participate. All donations will go to a charity that helps individuals in our Armed Forces and their families. CrossFit No Boundaries, 27136 Paseo Espada, Suite 1101, San Juan Capistrano. 949.229.8049. crossfitnoboundaries.com.

BINGO AT GOODY’S 7 p.m. Every Monday, Goody’s hosts a bingo night for a charity of the month.

This month’s beneficiary is Friends of San Clemente Foundation. Cards are $1 per sleeve, and raffle prizes are offered.

Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real.

Page 10

949.492.3400. goodystavern.com.

COUNTRY DANCING 7 p.m. Stop by the Swallow’s Inn for country dancing with DJ Patrick and a happy hour that lasts all day. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. swallowsinn.com

Wednesday | 29 WEDNESDAY NIGHT TRIVIA 7:30-9:30 p.m. Enjoy friendly competition and craft beers among friends during the BrewHouse’s weekly trivia night.

Food trucks are on site during the trivia contest. The BrewHouse. 31896 Plaza Dr., Suite D3, San Juan Capistrano.

949.481.6181. thebrewhousesjc.com.

(Cont. on page 23) thecapistranodispatch.com

AGING WELL

AGING WELL for the Young at Heart

For the latest edition of Aging Well, our biannual guide for seniors, we’ve highlighted several fun and exciting programs for readers to stay actively engaged in the Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano communities.

T

his guide will offer resources for readers who are looking to move their loved ones closer to home, as we provide an overview of several senior living facilities in the tri-city area. We also outline information on where seniors can learn more about utilizing technology, as well as direct them to a litany of podcasts and smartphone apps to keep a sharp mind.

Readers can also learn about volunteering opportunities with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, which is a great way to help support local police services while promoting safety in the community.

And in this issue, we dive into details on how to identify early warning signs of memory loss and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, which is becoming more prevalent among seniors who are living longer than previous generations.

All of these stories and resources are meant to help our senior citizens in the community thrive as they approach their golden years. With so much to offer, South Orange County is certainly an ideal place for seniors to enjoy a beautiful life.

S TAY O N T H E R OA D LONGER with AARP’s Driver Safety Course

T

By Shawn Raymundo

o help keep aging motorists up to date on the rules of the road, AARP offers driver safety classes at local community centers in South Orange County.

During the AARP Smart Driver Course, instructor George Dobbie will review all of the laws and procedures on the books, as outlined by the Department of Motor Vehicles. With the course geared toward elderly drivers, Dobbie noted how advanced age can impact our driving.

“As we grow older, things happen within our bodies, and we take medications and the conditions that we have in our bodies, they all affect our driving,” he said. “Our purpose is to help people drive safely for a longer period of time.”

The course, he also said, is ideal for those who may be preparing to retake their written driver’s license exam with the DMV. “A lot of people come to us when their license is about to be renewed,” he said. “The things that we cover help them with being able to know the things they need to know in order to renew their license.”

As an incentive, many car insurance providers also offer discounts to drivers for completing the course, explained Heidi Ivanoff, senior program coordinator at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center.

“What they can do with that is take (the cer-

for the Young at Heart

tificate) or contact their insurance provider and ask them if that provider gives them a discount for taking that course; and many do accept that,” Ivanoff said.

The class, she also noted, is strictly an old-fashioned, student-instructor-style course and doesn’t incorporate any behind-the-wheel instruction.

New students, or anyone who hasn’t taken the course in more than five years, are required to first complete the two-day class. After that, participants who just want a refresher can take the one-day class.

AARP members can take the class for $15, while non-members pay $20.

Dobbie will conduct two-day courses at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center on June 18 and June 20 and at the Dana Point Community Center on July 24 and July 25. He’ll also hold a one-day refresher course at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente on June 11. All classes are scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To register, contact your city’s community center or go there in person.

The San Juan Capistrano Community Center is located at 25925 Camino Del Avion and can be reached by phone at 949.493.5911.

The Dana Point Community Center is at 34052 Del Obispo Street and can be contacted at 949.496.2337.

San Clemente’s Dorothy Visser Senior Center is located at 117 Avenida Victoria. The phone number is 949.498.3322.

AGING WELL

for the Young at Heart

BANK ON IT Food Banks and Senior Service Groups Partner to Close Hunger Gap

By Lillian Boyd

H

ome-delivered meals are becoming more and more popular, with dishes being brought to your home with the touch of a button on your smartphone or computer. But with aging residents becoming dependent on a fi ed income and losin mo ility, access to fresh, quality food becomes more of a necessity than a convenience.

Beginning June 1, seniors in California who receive Social Security Income (SSI)/State upplemental ayment ) enefits will e a le to apply for al resh food enefits. alifornia has been the only state in the country to disqualify SSI/SSP recipients from receiving CalFresh, or food stamps, prior to June 1.

“This has been a huge barrier for seniors hoping to apply for CalFresh,” said Ellie Nedry, the community program manager for Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County. “We believe that nobody should go hungry, ever.

Our work focuses on helping clients overcome those barriers.”

Second Harvest works to provide nourishment to more than 300,000 people throughout Orange County, including Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. The organization works with more than 200 partners in the

community to combine efforts in combating hunger.

Second Harvest’s Groceries for Seniors program provides supplemental groceries to low-income seniors at nearly 40 sites around Orange County, twice a month. You do not need to rin proof of income, a e, or identification.

Sites of service include Father Serra’s Pantry at Mission Basilica and Boys & Girls Clubs of Capo Valley in San Juan Capistrano, RH Dana Elementary School in Dana Point and Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) in San Clemente.

Second Harvest also offers a mobile pantry service that brings fresh produce, lean protein items and healthy foods to the public. Nedry says this service has been overwhelmingly popular since the organization implemented feedback to provide healthier options, as opposed to canned goods and items with preservatives.

“These sorts of services are really what make a difference in a senior having to choose between paying for medication or rent and paying for a meal,” Nedry said. “Nobody deserves to go hungry.”

Second Harvest’s programs are free for recipients. For information regarding food distributions in your area and other direct food assistance in English and Spanish, call the helpline at 1.855.2.FEEDOC. Dana Point’s senior services offer a nutritional food program each weekday beginning at 11:30 a.m., which includes an entrée, beverage and dessert. The program is operated by Age Well Senior Services within the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street.

Age Well conducts several programs that cater to the needs of senior residents.

Every Monday, from 11 a.m. to noon, Helping Hands Worldwide distributes food items donated by local businesses and grocery chains through a number lottery system.

Additionally during the week, Room B at the Dana Point Community Center has been transformed into a arden af for a fine din-

Tech & Seniors

By Zach Cavanagh

in e perience. ro ram or ani ers hoped to steer away from a cafeteria setup and create a welcoming environment with tablecloths, cloth napkins, silverware and glass dishes.

“The (City of Dana Point) has really put forth an effort to improve services and e perience for senior residents,” said Sandy Anderson, the site manager for Age Well at the Dana Point Senior Center. “They’ve remodeled the space, and they provide a lot of items for our programs.”

Free transportation is available for Dana Point residents, age 60 and older, to the weekday lunch program. Call the City of Dana Point at 949.248.3536 to register.

For homebound seniors, age 60 and older, or anyone unable to shop or cook on their own, Age Well provides home-delivered meals. For a suggested donation of $7.50 per day, recipients are given three meals, including breakfast, hot lunch and cold dinner.

“Our mission is to provide resources for older adults to promote their vitality and support their independence,” said Anderson. “Our

founder, Marilyn Ditty, believed that nobody should be denied our services. Nobody should go hungry.”

For the month of April, Age Well Senior Services provided 448 meals at the center, and 1,129 meals were delivered to homes in Dana Point.

A e ell enior ervices is a nonprofit organization providing resources throughout South Orange County, with several sites, including Dana Point. While the 501(c)(3) relies on government funding, services also depend on private donations, Anderson said. About 90% of money donations support the programs directly.

Age Well is currently holding a fundraiser du ed ive , ive in order to finance meals on wheels and transportation services.

Visit give.agewellseniorservices.org to give a donation.

The fast-paced world of new technology can make life tough on aging adults. Luckily, there are plenty of local options to assist those who need a little help keeping up on technology: >> San Clemente’s Dorothy Visser Senior Center offers two technology programs each week. Computer Assistance is held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays, and Technology Assistance is held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursdays. The center’s computer lab is also open daily Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 949.498.3322. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. >> an uan apistrano holds cell phone tutorin sessions on the first ednesday of every month, by appointment, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center’s Senior oun e. arlos A uilar of nited ealthcare offers help with cell phones, ta lets, te tin , emails and photos. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 949.493.5911 or in person at the community center reception counter. The senior lounge also provides public access computers and free WiFi while open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 949.443.6358. San Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano. >> Saddleback College’s Emeritus Institute is offering a summer class to help ease the use of technology for seniors. The class, titled “Life and Technology Integration for Older Adults,” is described as introducin students to new technolo ies that create an ease and efficiency in completin daily tasks. The description says students will learn about Internet use, computers, tablets, smartphones and apps, among other technologies. The class will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-3:50 p.m. beginning May 28 and ending between July 17-23 at the San Juan Capistrano College and Career Campus at 31522 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. For more information or how to register, visit saddleback.edu/emeritus.

AGING WELL

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MEMORY LOSS: IDENTIFYING E A R LY S I G N S OF DEMENTIA

By Shawn Raymundo

M

emory loss can be a frustrating feeling. And while misplacing small items such as keys may seem inconsequential, if it becomes frequent at a certain age, it could be an early sign of dementia.

In her experience as a quality assurance care lead and registered nurse with Home Instead Senior Care in Mission Viejo, Jaiden Tanaleon said the age at which a person may develop symptoms of dementia can vary, but usually it’s found in those in

their 80s and 90s.

“If you’re starting to get it in your 60s or 70s, that’s early onset . . . that’s not good; it tends to progress,” she said.

While advances in medicine and technology continue to keep people alive longer, the risk of dementia and degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, increases, Tanaleon notes.

“As our population gets older and older, a problem we come across is dementia,” she said.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alzheimer’s disease ranked as the fifth-leadin cause of death for those a ed and older in . Al heimer s wasn t on that list ac in , the notes.

Tanaleon said that if family members or friends begin to notice signs of memory loss in a loved one, the person should check with their primary physician to get a referral for a neurologist.

Tanaleon further explained that there are several signs for both early and late stages of dementia.

When it comes to the late stages of dementia, Tanaleon said the individual would experience changes in their basic activities of daily living, including forgetting how to do familiar tasks. Such activities include dressing, eating, ambulation—or walking and movement—toileting and hygiene.

As a mnemonic, Tanaleon notes, these activities spell out DEATH. In the early stages of dementia, she said, those close to the person would start seeing changes in their instrumental activities of daily living, which include shopping, housekeeping,

accounting, food preparation and transportation—or SHAFT. Using that mnemonic device, Tanaleon explains that a person showing early stages would display the following: • Shopping: forgetting certain items that they meant to buy.

• Housekeeping: not putting items in the right place or not disposing of trash properly.

• Account management: letting bills pile up without paying them or improperly writing checks.

• Food preparation: havin difficulty coo in meals, especially when it comes to new recipes, not washing hands, or not turning off the stove or oven.

• Transportation: losing the ability to drive safely, such as going in the wrong direction, ettin lost, or not loo in out for traffic.

Tanaleon said the T in SHAFT could also stand for Telephone, as the individual may not remember a family member’s number or just forget how to answer phone calls.

Other situations, she added, may also involve the person not knowing where they are to whom they’re talking.

“They may be disorientated, may not know where they’re at or what’s going on,” she said.

For family members, the transition can also e difficult, as they re stru lin to fi ure out how to cope with the situation.

“Some family members may take it personally,” she said, later adding that there are a lot of resources to turn to in order to better help their loved one.

Tanaleon recommends “being very patient.

Listen every time they speak, even if it’s the same thing they said over and over again. . . . or them, it s the first time they re sayin it, so the family member has to treat it that way.”

“And if there’s a point, especially when it gets later in the stages, where a family or a senior ets very difficult to tal to, she said, you should “take a moment to cool off, as long as the senior is safe, take a step back. You don’t have to win the battle. You have to think about the war.”

For that senior or individual who’s suffering from memory loss, Tanaleon explained that it feels like they’re losing control.

“Many times our seniors are struggling for their independence,” she said. “If they’re not able to do the daily activities or their daily living, they’re losing control.”

AGING WELL

for the Young at Heart

S TAY AC T I V E BY VO L U N T E E R I N G

with Local Police Departments

By Cari Hachmann

Senior volunteer patrol programs coordinated with Orange County Sheriff’s Department are a great way to stay active, help support police services and get involved with the local community. The cities of San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente all have their own programs, with each varying slightly according to the town’s needs. Volunteer patrols are generally geared toward seniors and retirees who have more free time to spare, but there are not necessarily strict age requirements.

RSVP // ne of the first pro rams of its ind, established in 1985, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) provides support for the city of San Clemente Police Services. The group of about 30 volunteers dedicates close to 11,400 hours of service each year to act as extra eyes and ears for the local police department, according to the city of San Clemente’s website. volunteer duties include par in enforcement, traffic and crowd control at special events, clerical support, speed radar trailer placement and assisting in certain emergency situations.

Volunteers may also conduct vacation chec s at homes for out-of-town residents, ma e visits to home ound people as part of its You Are Not Alone Program (YANA) and staff the Police and Community Together (PACT)

house at the San Clemente Pier. is loo in for new volunteers, said ou eto, recruitment quartermaster for . t s a reat way to ive ac to the city and a reat way to ive ac and e involved with the local San Clemente Police Services,” said eto. olunteers are as ed to serve four days a month in the summer and three days a month in the winter, in addition to covering city events throu hout the year, eto said.

An volunteer of five years, eto estimates the program saves San Clemente about a quarter of a million dollars each year by allowing Sheriff’s deputies more time to do the duties their jobs demand.

For more information, call the city’s RSVP Volunteer Administrator at 949.361.8353 or email HR@san-clemente.org or visit sanclemente.org.

ASAP // Formed in 1992, the Associated Senior Action Program (ASAP) is a group of about 40-plus volunteers assigned to the city of San Juan Capistrano Police Services.

Bill Mase, head of operations for ASAP, said there are a variety of options for interested volunteers, ranging from highly active duties to more stationary wor . olunteers can choose activities depending on their interests or capabilities.

tions and summer night concerts. or someone that is interested or would li e to volunteer, this is great opportunity to get into any one of those groups,” Mase said.

People just need to have enough time to dedicate, almost li e a part-time o , he said.

For volunteers, that can be as few as one shift per wee .

For more information about the ASAP program, call .949.443.6369 or visit sanjuancapistrano.org.

Ray Vegas and Beth Lukina, members of the Associated Senior Action Program (ASAP) for the San Juan Capistrano Police Services, pose in uniform for ASAP’s bike patrol unit. Photo: Bill Mase

or e ample, oinin A A s i e patrol could involve riding 15 miles of trails on a given day, chec in pu lic par facilities and removin raffiti. ther police service volunteer areas include administrative support, van patrol to help enforce lawful par in in and around downtown San Juan Capistrano, as well as hosting the city s rain epot nformation ios .

A A volunteers also assist with traffic and par in control at special city events throu hout the year, from parades to holiday celebra-

VIPS // The Volunteers in Police Support (VIPS) program assists the city of Dana Point Police Services through four separate volunteer areas, including van patrol, bicycle patrol, clerical support and neighborhood watch. volunteers also help out with traffic and crowd control at the city’s special events. Other important duties include ma in daily chec s to resident homes during its vacation patrols.

Currently, 22 members serve in the program, performin valua le tas s that save the city of Dana Point an estimated $103,000 annually, according to the city’s website.

Dana Point Police Services Neighborhood Watch program prides itself as one of the est in the re ion, with more than loc captains that meet quarterly to represent the community.

For more information, visit danapoint.org.

AGING WELL

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Weekly Events Every week, the cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano offer several activities for seniors in the community. These weekly events are meant to provide opportunities to stay in shape, mentally active and social.

Bingo Games

1-3 p.m. Every Monday, compete for cash prizes with rounds of bingo at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center. 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. 949.498.3322. san-clemente.org.

Chair Yoga

- p.m. ertified yo a instructors will lead you in a series of simple movements to strengthen and stretch your whole body while seated in a chair. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. 949.498.3322. san-clemente.org.

Commodities Distribution

Friday Flicks

Free Bingo

Hula Dance for Fun and Exercise

9-11:30 a.m. On Thursdays after the third Wednesday of the month, the Dana Point Community enter distri utes free food to qualified senior residents by the Second Harvest Food Bank. 949.248.353. recreation@danapoint.org. danapoint.org.

12:15-1 p.m. Win great prizes every Tuesday and Wednesday by participating in Dana Point Community Center’s free bingo games. 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point. 949.248.353. recreation@danapoint.org. danapoint.org.

1-3:30 p.m. A variety of movie genres will be shown, and free popcorn and refreshments will be offered. This weekly movie day is held each Friday to those age 50 and older. 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point. 949.248.3536. recreation@danapoint.org. danapoint.org.

8:30-9:30 a.m. Improve mobility, strength and flexibility with this free beginners’ dance class for seniors every Monday. Intermediate classes are also offered following the beginners’ course. Preregistration is not required. Old Fire Station Complex, 31421 La Matanza Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

Sit & Fit Chair Exercise

10:15-11:15 a.m. This free DVD video class is offered at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

No registration is required. 25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

Stretch & Tone Exercise

8:30-9:30 a.m. This free class is offered at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Bring an exercise mat. No registration is required.

25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

Game Days

1-4 p.m. Head to the Dana Point Community Center to socialize, play cards and board games, work on puzzles and more. A variety of games and puzzles are available. This free drop-in program is held each Tuesday and Thursday for those age 50 and older. 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point. 949.248.3536. recreation@ danapoint.org. danapoint.org.

Ukulele Sing-Along

1-3 p.m. Every Thursday, those 50 years and older can go to the San Juan Capistrano Community Center with their ukulele to play music.

Music and song lists will be provided, and those who aren’t experienced will have help getting started. 25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. sanjuancapistrano.org.

AGING WELL

for the Young at Heart

D I G I TA L R E S O U R C E S

for Seniors

By Lillian Boyd

hese podcasts and smartphone apps are accessi le for on-the- o education and rain stimulation to eep your mind, memory and attention sharp.

Podcasts The Lux Radio Theater

he u adio heater, once hosted y ecil e ille, was a classic radio antholo y series that first aired in the s. t quic ly rew into one of the most popular, dramatic radio specials, airin for more than two decades. he u adio heater adapted roadway sta e wor s and films such as The Treasure of Sierra Madre and The War of the Worlds) into hour-lon , live radio presentations that can now e streamed in the form of a podcast and can e downloaded on i unes.

Freakonomics Radio

This podcast stems from the oo Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything, y economist teven . evitt and New York Times ournalist tephen . u ner. he nonfiction oo e plores the relationship etween pop culture and economics. u ner welcomes o el laureates, entrepreneurs and intellectuals on the podcast for provocative and educational discussions. The series can e streamed at frea onomics.com.

Good Job, Brain!

ood o , rain is a wee ly podcast that s part qui show and part off eat news. he pro ect e an as a ic starter fundraisin initiative in ecem er in order for the hosts aren Chu, Colin Felton, Dana elson, hris ohler) to share their love of trivia with others in the form of podcastin . earn somethin new each wee . ood o , rain can e downloaded on iTunes, SoundCloud or at ood o rain.com.

Smart Phone Apps to Keep You Sharp Wizard

his amin app was created y neuroscientists at niversity of am rid e to improve episodic memory such as where you placed your wallet or par ed your car).

Lumosity

his co nitive science app trains your rain in the form of fun ames. ou can customi e your app e perience to fit your s ill levels.

BrainHQ

his app was desi ned to improve the user s hearin in crowded places and improve focus. t offers attention, memory rain speed and intellectual exercises.

A A

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

D E L AY I N G E N R O L L M E N T I N T O M E D I C A R E i ty-five used to mean retirement and oin on edicare h, how times have chan ed. ost people don t retire at a e these days. hey mi ht cut ac on their hours, ut wor in doesn t come to a halt, especially when you live in ran e ounty. And while you can retire anytime you li e, when you o on Medicare it has a protocol that you must follow, or you could end up livin with lifelon financial penalties. f you et your health insurance from a roup health plan with or more employees, then you can wait to enroll in Medicare. You can leave that insurance whenever you li e, ut when the time comes to enroll in edicare there will e a document that needs to e si ned off on from your company showin proof that you had that insurance while a e

and over. ou will also need to save a document that will e mailed to you that shows proof of prescription dru covera e. ou must have credi le dru covera e when you re . hen you do then o on edicare, the overnment will want to see proof that you had it prior to your edicare dru covera e, or else you et a lifelon financial penalty. ecidin to enroll in edicare while still wor in comes with some deli eration. actors to consider are many. ow much do you ma e hat you pay for edicare art and art is ased on your ad usted ross income and there are now different levels of ad ustments that et added onto the ase premium for art and art . oo le AA ncome elated onthly Ad ustment Amount). ow ood are your health enefits at wor edicare, when coupled with a

edicare upplement and a dru plan or transformed into a edicare Advanta e plan, has fantastic enefits ou can have enefits where you pay nothin when you o into the hospital, have outpatient sur ery, s, physical therapy and more. he premium s) to et the additional enefits are very afforda le, and most edicare Advanta e plans have no premium at all. ts important to compare how much you pay for your enefits from your roup insurance plan and how their deducti les, co-pays and coinsurance compare to your options with Medicare health plans. his entire decision process can e very overwhelmin and comple , ut to me it s ust another day at my office. f you d li e to discuss your options, I’m happy to help and my services are free.

Insurance 101 Services Stephanie Frisch 949.351.2443 InsuranceEducation@att.net CA License #OF18674 YourInsuranceEducation.com

AGING WELL

for the Young at Heart

OTHER SENIOR LIVING FACILITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY AND NEARBY

Dana Point The Fountains at Sea Bluffs 25411 Sea Bluffs Drive 949.354.0033

Capistrano Beach Care Center el ey 949.496.5786

San Clemente The Presidio

105 Avenida Presidio 844.870.8103

Moving a Loved One CLOSE TO HOME

Aegis of Dana Point

By Zach Cavanagh

t s a i enou h decision to move a loved one from their home, ut findin the ri ht place to relocate is ust as important. here may not e room at home, so where to o ne t outh ran e ounty has numerous senior living facilities to help residents in each one of our towns. Whatever the location or the amenities you re loo in for, they can e found in one of our towns or, at the very least, ri ht ne t door.

Aegis of Dana Point

Crestavilla

Reata Glen

Aegis’ Dana Point location offers spectacular ocean views from its location on top of the bluffs of Capistrano Beach.

Aegis Living has locations up and down the est oast and defines itself as an employeecentric company. Ae is elieves that happy employees means happy residents.

Aegis of Dana Point offers assisted living, memory care and short-term care for residents.

Aegis has its 24/7 staff on deck to help with all the little things, as well as personal needs and care plans. he community offers three chef-prepared meals per day, as well as a wide variety of scheduled activities from mornin until evenin every day of the wee . ach day offers a fun theme as well. he community also offers a eauty salon, ar er and massa e services. he memory care at Ae is offers a secured livin area within the community. Ae is provides uplifting activities to reduce stress and lower an ieties for those in need of memory care, along with personalized services for those residents.

Aegis of Dana Point offers two floor plans: a studio and a one- edroom.

Aegis of Dana Point is located at 26922 amino de strella in ana oint. or more information, call 949.340.8558.

A rand-new senior livin facility has opened near y restavilla in a una i uel.

Crestavilla offers independent living, assisted livin and memory care for its community. ndependent livin ta es care of the day-today maintenance with all-day dinin options, housekeeping and scheduled Tesla car service. restavilla provides fitness classes, uest spea ers, entertainment performances, art workshops and civic engagement opportunities.

Assisted living offers all that independent living does, in addition to offering assistance for necessities such as bathing, medication, getting out of bed or chairs and providing escorts to meals and events.

Crestavilla offers a slew of features in the community. here is a rooftop area with a lounge, sunroom, patio, garden, greenhouse and art studio with a pottery iln. restavilla also provides a heated pool, therapeutic hot tu , salon, spa, aquarium, three wellness centers, two fitness centers, movie theater, li rary, kids’ zone and a dog park.

Crestavilla offers three floor plans: studio, one- edroom and two- edroom. restavilla is located at i uel oad in a una i uel. or more information, call 949.281.7970.

San Juan Capistrano’s Reata Glen is one of the latest senior communities to open in South Oran e ounty, with a -acre campus in ancho Mission Viejo. eata len offers all that you now of senior livin and more. he community has a state-ofthe-art fitness center and spa, as well as a pool, sauna and Jacuzzi. Reata Glen provides all sorts of outdoor activities with a tennis court, short- ame olf course, occe all field, wal in and cyclin trails, a do par and more.

Reata Glen has a lot going on inside the campus, too, with fitness classes, travel roups, a guest lecture series, theatrical productions, dance lessons, art classes and book clubs. he community also provides restaurantstyle dinin featurin fresh and healthy dishes. ach residence also includes a modern itchen for residents who like to cook for themselves.

Reata Glen has its own health center that provides residents access to assisted living, memory care and a nursin center. here are nearly floor plans availa le at eata len with one-, two- and three- edroom apartments, as well as two- and three- edroom villas.

Reata Glen is located at 28805 Ortega i hway in an uan apistrano. or more information, call 949.545.2200.

San Clemente Villas asily located at the north end of an lemente, an lemente illas rin s quality livin and personali ed care to outh ran e ounty seniors.

The Villas centers its offerings around social interaction and activities that encourage residents to be active, engage with new friends and learn new s ills. he community provides three meals per day, ocean views, live music, dancin , transportation shuttle and a full calendar. he illas also offers a appy our on soft drin s and lu ury dinin options. he illas also has an Al heimer s in with speciali ed care options. he win is private and secure, has its own dinin room and provides a wide-open outdoor recreation area. here are three floor plans for the livin quarters a studio, one- edroom and two- edroom. he plans e in at , per month. an lemente illas can e found at amino e os ares in an lemente. or more information, call . . .

San Juan Capistrano Adagio San Juan

31822 San Juan Creek Road 949.899.8388

Atria San Juan

32353 San Juan Creek Road 949.625.4889

Brookdale San Juan Capistrano 31741 Rancho Viejo Road 844.630.8835

Casa de Amma

alle Arroyo 949.496.9001

Del Obispo Terrace Senior Living 32200 Del Obispo Street 949.257.2928

Silverado San Juan Capistrano Memory Care Community 30311 Camino Capistrano 949.240.0550

Other Nearby Communities The Covington 3 Pursuit Aliso Viejo 949.389.8500

Seasons & Autumn Years 27783 Center Drive Mission Viejo 866.567.1335

Sunrise Senior Living ountry lu Mission Viejo 949.582.2010

rive

IN-HOME CARE RESOURCES CareAssist Services

31726 Rancho Viejo Road, #102 San Juan Capistrano 949.276.8413

Healthy at Home Caregivers

24672 San Juan Avenue, Suite 206, Dana Point 949.340.2617

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 10)

Thursday | 30 OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-9 p.m. Five Vines Wine Bar presents its Open Mic Night every Thursday. Five Vines is looking for musicians, comedians, poets—anyone who wants a mic and an audience. Must be 21 and older. 31761 Camino Capistrano, #11, San Juan Capistrano. 949.800.9145. fivevineswinebar.com.

At the Movies: Non-Fiction: More than a French Re-Write

ACOUSTIC THURSDAYS AT BARNOA 7-9 p.m. Live music every Thursday. A rotating cast of Orange County’s most talented musicians play acoustic covers and original music. Enjoy a great wine selection, craft beers, tasty appetizers and Barnoa’s full dinner menu. Must be 21 and older. Barnoa Wine and Craft Beer Bistro. 831 Via Suerte, San Clemente.

949.388.4378. barnoawinebar.com.

ADOPTION EVENT Noon-4 p.m. Meet adoptable cats and kittens, as Southern Counties Rescue Inc. will have 15 to 20 kitties at most events.

For more information and to complete an adoption questionnaire before the event, visit southerncountiesrescue.org. Petco, 32391 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 714.756.0679.

Saturday | 01 WILDFLOWER WRAP-UP 9:30-10:30 a.m. Wildflower season may be winding down, but the Tree of Life Nursery’s enthusiasm for native wildflowers is not. Join the nursery and relive the 2019 bloom. Bring your favorite wildflower photos from this spring on a USB drive to share with the nursery. Each person will have five minutes to show-and-tell their highlights.

Get tips on where to catch wildflowers next year and where you can still see what’s left of this year’s bloom (hint: the mountains are calling). Tree of Life Nursery, 33201 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.728.0685. CaliforniaNativePlants.com.

WORLDWIDE KNIT IN PUBLIC DAY 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Bring along your projects and join the Yarnover Truck at the San Juan Capistrano Library as it holds its Worldwide Knit in Public Day celebration one week early. The Yarnover Truck loves taking its yarn out to people and hopes you will, too. The San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 818.394.0551. yarnovertruck.com.

THE GROVE CULTIVATED ARTIST SHOWCASE 6-9 p.m. The Grove Cultivated Artist Showcase is a wonderful event that celebrates both the artists and the arts. Presale tickets are $10, and the event is for everyone. Visit The Grove’s website at thegrovecenter.org for tickets. Mountain View Church, 32382 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

Monday | 03 OPEN MIC AT BARNOA 7-10 p.m. Orange County singers and songwriters join host Gary Wright on the first three Mondays of every month to share The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SOLAR EDUCATION SERIES 11 a.m.-noon. Join your San Juan Capistrano community for a powerful Q&A with nationally certified energy practitioners and nonprofit experts. Find out how you can go solar and secure the 30% federal tax credit in 2019. Learn the latest technologies, how solar works, if solar will work for your home, battery storage and integration, available state and federal incentives and much more. San Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano. 949.387.7559.

Sullivansolarpower.com.

Photo: Ad Vitam /CG Cinema

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

know what you were thinking if you might have seen the trailer for Olivier Assayas’ Non-Fiction before whatever indie movie you were attending: “Oh, this is just a Woody Allen-esque movie made by French people.” In some ways, it is a little bit of that. Midlife crises, affairs, existentialism, older people out of touch with society, etc. Which is amusing, because Allen began his career taking tons of influence from French New Wave features from the 1950s. But, fortunately, Assayas doesn’t come off as a knock-off director in Non-Fiction.

In the literary world of Paris, novelist Leonard Spiegel (Vincent Macaigne) is struggling to convince his publisher, Alain Danielson (Guillaume Canet), that his new book will be a hit. Leonard and Alain are colleagues and casual friends. On top of this, Leonard’s been having a long-term affair with Alain’s wife, Selena (Juliette

their musical talent. Bring your musical instruments and love of live music. The stage is set with everything you need. Must be 21 and older. Barnoa Wine and Craft Beer Bistro. 831 Via Suerte, San Clemente.

949.388.4378. barnoawinebar.com.

Saturday | 08 DESERT BONSAI BOWL 9:30-10:30 a.m. Observe and learn how

Binoche), who is tired of being the star of her own TV series. Alain is also secretly having casual sex with his publication’s young digital transcriber, Laure (Christa Théret).

Nora Hamzawi co-stars as Leonard’s own wife, Valerie, who doesn’t seem to care about any of the drama.

Non-Fiction could have easily been outdated in concept, but surprisingly Assayas isn’t afraid to see things from the younger generation’s perspective. The movie isn’t just another racy sex romp with subtitles; it is a commentary on the characters’ reluctance and concerns with adapting to digital technology taking over literature. Most surprising is that Binoche is the least-interesting actor, as she continues to typecast herself as a woman in her mid-50s reacting to her mortality through promiscuity.

Hamzawi is a more intriguing and charming cast member in this film.

CD

to make a “desert bonsai” using a planter bowl or shallow pot in the bonsai tradition.

Tree of Life Nursery will match the pot to desert plant species, rocks, pebbles and sand top dress, dry branches or burls and other natural features. The finished pot will exemplify a miniature desert scene that will grow and thrive in the pot for many years to come. Tree of Life Nursery, 33201 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685.

CaliforniaNativePlants.com.

Page 23

ADOPTION, FOSTER & KINSHIP CARE SUPPORT GROUP 4-6 p.m. Join other adoptive foster and kinship parents for support, training, and encouragement as we learn how to better relate to our children and bring healing.

The support group meets on the second Saturday of the month in the Student Zone of the Rancho Capistrano campus of Saddleback Church. If you have children in fifth grade or younger, you may check them into the Saddleback Kids program during the support group session. Saddleback Church Rancho Capistrano, 29251 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.609.8555. orphans@saddleback.com.

Saddleback.com.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GHOST WALK 8-9:30 p.m. As the sun sets on the walls of the ruins of the great stone church, the dead walk the streets of old San Juan Capistrano. Join the newest venture into the dark and the macabre through the historic streets of one of California’s oldest cities. Tours meet just outside the brick visitors’ information booth near the train tracks located behind the Franciscan Plaza Parking Structure at the end of Verdugo Street. 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 866.446.7803. hauntedoc.com.

Wednesday | 12 COOKING DEMONSTRATION 6:30-9:30 p.m. Join Ciao Pasta on Wednesday or Thursday night for a four-course Italian Dinner Demonstration. Imported Italian wines will be served through the entire event, and trivia games with prizes will be played. Space is limited. To RSVP, please call 949.496.5002. Ciao Pasta, 31661 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

Ciaopasta.net. thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

Where are the single men?

I

n 1961, Connie Francis had a popular song called “Where the Boys Are,” which was on the song track for a movie of the same name. In the song, she sang, “Where the boys are, my true love will be.

He’s walkin’ down some street in town and I know he’s lookin’ there for me…”

Thirty-three years later, in 1994, my first column was published, inspired by an unexpected divorce. By then, those boys Ms. Francis sang about were men, and women column readers started asking, “Where are the men?”

And there were times back then, when—as a new single guy—I wondered, “Where are the single women?”

As readers have aged along with me during the ensuing quarter-century, “Where are the men?” remains the most frequently asked question I hear. If anything, I hear it more often now, and there’s a reason for that. The ratio of single women to single men keeps getting larger, so finding a mate becomes more difficult for women.

For years, I’ve believed and written that the ratio was approximately 2-to-1.

Last week, when I read that the Census Bureau recently published some new statistics on the 65-and-older population, I decided to see if I could get an accurate, updated ratio of single women to single men.

The study was conducted in 2016 with a sample size of 3.5 million households across the United States and Puerto Rico. Every county in the nation was included. The numbers listed were estimates based on sample size.

I analyzed the 25-page report to see if it provided information that would be of

interest or helpful to older singles.

The study revealed that in 2016, there were 49.2 million people in the U.S. aged 65 and older.

Women outnumbered men, 27.4 million to 21.8 million. The survey broke down the information into three age groups: 65 to 74; 75 to 84; and 85 and older.

The survey revealed that widows outnumbered widowers by 3-to-1, although in the 85-andolder category, the ratio was 2-to-1. It’s difficult for ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 widows to find widowers

By Tom Blake to date.

The number of non-married women and men in each age category, along with the ratio of those women to men: 65 to 74 • 6.8 million women, 3.8 million men = ratio 1.8 to 1.

75 to 84 • 4.9 million women, 1.8 million men = ratio 2.7 to 1.

Photo: Courtesy of OC Public Libraries

Those ratios don’t seem as bad as I had anticipated. However, when you consider that many of those men included are in a relationship, or don’t want to be in a relationship, or never married, or aren’t “relationship material,” as some women point out, the realistic ratios are much larger.

So, how many eligible guys are left? It’s slim pickings! And the older people get, the slimmer the pickings become.

By age 85, 72 percent of the women were widowed.

So when women say, “What’s wrong with me? I can’t meet a nice man.”

The answer: “There is nothing wrong with you; numbers don’t lie. There just aren’t that many older men available. But there still are many, many couples who meet and become committed after age 65, so all hope isn’t lost.”

The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

Keep in mind that these stats and numbers were estimates from the 2016 survey, but, as the saying goes, they are close enough for government work—and probably close enough for the age 65-and-older group as well.

Too bad, 58 years after Connie Francis sang “Where the Boys Are,” we can’t get her to sing a new song: “Where the Men Are.” She is 80 years old; her song would be an inspiration to many of our readers.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and

a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites findingloveafter50. com; vicsta.com and travelafter55.com.

To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@gmail.com. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

BY MYLES MELLOR Solution:

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

Every issue, The Capistrano Dispatch will publish a historical photo. Online, The Capistrano Dispatch will create a gallery of the month’s photos. To submit your historical photo for consideration, provide information about the photo along with your name, date, location and a small description to sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com.

Sudoku

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Eugene

Eugene. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

FROM THE ARCHIVES Juanita Rios, matriarch of the San Juan Indian Council. A member of the Juaneno tribe, her family has been in San Juan Capistrano for 10 generations. She is a descendant of Feliciano Rios, one of the Spanish soldiers who helped build the Mission San Juan Capistrano. It’s unclear when this photo was taken.

85-and-up • 3.5 million women, 1.0 million men = ratio 3.5 to 1.

ne-year-old Eugene is quite the character. Full of energy and a goofy personality, Eugene is loads of fun to play with. He is very loving and would be a good match for someone with an active lifestyle who can keep up with all of his silliness.

If you would like to know more about Eugene, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617 or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente.

CD

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 24

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SJC LIVING

Island of the Swallows

BY FRED SWEGLES, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

It may come as a surprise that Cozumel Island, a magnet for Caribbean tourists, shares a heritage with San Juan Capistrano.

Whether you arrive by air or at the ferry dock, a large welcoming sculpture greets you: gracefully flying swallows.

The island’s name, in Mayan, is “Cuzaam luumil,” or “island of the swallows.” Legend has it that the first humans to visit the area observed many swallows flying over the island.

You won’t find an annual swallows fiesta on Cozumel, the tourist office affirmed. There’s no parade, no song “When the Swallows Return to Cozumel.”

But there are swallows on the island, though not as many as before, I was told. They’re primarily in remote mangroves or in large aquatic caverns known as cenotes.

Searching for swallows would be a wonderful excuse for swallows fanatics to go sample the white-sand beaches, the turquoise waters and the watering holes of Cozumel. CD

Business Beat News from San Juan Capistrano’s business community

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

New Business MOTHER WARRIOR COUNSELING 31815 Camino Capistrano, Suite 24 San Juan Capistrano, 949.633.0482 A new counseling service in San Juan Capistrano is working to help new mothers in South County by shining a light on maternal mental illness.

Kris La Fave Smith, a licensed marriage and family therapist, recently opened Mother Warrior Counseling in San Juan’s downtown district to work with mothers who are experiencing postpartum depression.

Smith notes that about one in seven women reports having postpartum depression after a pregnancy, with symptoms developing within a year after giving birth.

The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

People stroll past Cozumel Island’s downtown monument to the island’s swallows, while preparing to board ferries to the Mexican mainland, Playa del Carmen.

Photo: Fred Swegles

Such symptoms include excessive crying, severe mood swings and fatigue. Women experiencing postpartum depression are also likely to lose interest in being around family and friends.

Though postpartum depression is a common occurrence among mothers, Smith said many women don’t come forward.

“Many don’t talk about it; it’s (perceived as) very shameful,” she said. “They feel a lot of guilt about feeling the way they do, even though logically and cognitively, you know that it’s very normal and very common.”

As of mother of two, Smith stressed the importance of seeking mental health rather than dealing with it on your own.

She notes that postpartum depression can have serious consequences if untreated, including suicide and infanticide.

“For many women who can’t get help and don’t get help and are so ill . . . unfortunately, many resort to death by suicide and, of course, there’s infanticide, where they terminate the life of the child,” she said. “So there’s some pretty dire outcomes for moms who don’t get help.”

Smith works with clients one-one-one in a variety of settings at the mother’s choosing. That includes the traditional sit-down

in her office, going to the mother’s house for a session, having “walk ’n’ talks,” or chatting online through a forum that’s compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

As a mom who also went through postpartum depression with her first child about 14 years ago, Smith wanted to make it easier for her clients to get the proper help by working around their schedule and accommodating them with home visits.

“I know how many barriers there are to being a mom, in getting anything done,” she said.

“But that’s one of the reasons they’re not getting help, because they don’t think they can figure out how to do it, or they can’t leave their home or they can’t get a babysitter or afford a babysitter,” she said.

“I didn’t want that to be a barrier.”

Through her sessions, Smith said, moms are provided with a space to let out how they’re feeling and normalize the issue of maternal mental health.

“Moms especially need to know that they’re not bad and they’re not wrong for feeling the way they’re feeling,” Smith said. “They can be very normal feelings and emotions, and they will get better.” CD

Page 25

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Kris La Fave Smith’s Mother Warrior Counseling in San Juan is working to help new moms through postpartum depression. Photo: Courtesy thecapistranodispatch.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com GARAGE SALES MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE Saturday, May 25, 7 a.m. Located at the top of Mecha near Linda Lane Beach Park, on W. Marquita. clothing, furniture, TV with wall mount, pictures, Toys, new men’s shoes, kitchen items, Christmas decor, hardware and more!

YARD SALE - SATURDAY, MAY 25 26532 Palisades Dr. , Gas Stove, kids toys, plants, kids clothes, musical instruments, some tools , lots of misc. and some furniture

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

HELP WANTED

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

HELP WANTED-SHIPPING/RECEIVING Se necesita ayuda/ para mandar y recibir.

Picture Frame Manufacturer, San Clemente location. Part Time or Full Time available.

Medio tiempo complete. Available hours Monday-Friday between 7:00am-5:00pm. $12.50-$14.00 depending on experience.

949.388.8403 ask for Scott. Se habla espanol

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

Submit your info online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

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

949.388.7700 ext. 104 The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 14, 2019

Page 26

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Tribute to Character SJCLL awards first Dave Rosa Awards in memory of late Long Beach Fire Captain, league president

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he San Juan Capistrano Little League Closing Day ceremonies added a new and lasting tribute on Saturday, May 18 at Hausdorfer Field at the San Juan Sports Park.

Along with recognizing its season champions and winners of the day’s skills competitions, SJCLL honored the first recipients of the Dave Rosa Awards. The award recognized one player in each competitive division for sportsmanship, love of baseball, ability as an ultimate teammate and exemplary player to coaches and individual contributions to their teams.

The award is named for the late Long Beach Fire Captain David Rosa. Rosa, who was fatally shot responding to an emergency incident last June, was a member of SJCLL for nearly nine years, serving as president, umpire-in-chief, board member, manager and coach.

“We spent so many years in Little League,” said Lynley Rosa, Dave’s wife, who was on hand to help present the award. “From tee ball until our sons aged out, it’s part of our lives. (Dave) gave a lot and sacrificed a lot in time. Being part of the community was huge. We love San Juan so much. We are so happy to live here. He just loved everything baseball represents. Community, helping one another, learning skills, growing, all of that.”

SJCLL has paid tribute to Rosa all season with “Rosa 10” embroidered on the sides of

the caps of many coaches and players. Lynley and son Sam took part in the season’s opening pitch ceremony in March.

“This means a lot to us,” Lynley Rosa said. “It’s very humbling to be here and have all the support that we’ve received throughout this past almost year. It’s great to have them recognize him. I’m kind of surprised at all the lives he touched. Honestly, a little overwhelming sometimes.

To get all the letters and phone calls and that kind of stuff, it makes me realize how important our lives are and how we really

can make an impact by being who we are and helping others.”

SJCLL will continue to pay tribute to Rosa with this award, which comes with a special trophy, $200 scholarship, a sign at Old Majors Field and a Dave Rosa Award patch on their uniforms next season.

Zane Larson, Dean Rogers, Gael Galeana and Jeremy Galeana were the first winners of the Dave Rosa Award and were presented with their trophies and large checks by Lynley Rosa and San Juan Capistrano Mayor Brian Maryott. CD

The San Juan Capistrano Little League awarded its first Dave Rosa Awards in memory of the late Long Beach Fire Captain as part of the league’s Closing Day ceremonies on Saturday, May 18 at Hausdorfer Field at the San Juan Sports Park. Photos: Zach Cavanagh The Capistrano Dispatch May 24-June 13, 2019

Page 28

thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

San Juan Preps Roundup

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

F

or 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 Boys Tennis Wins First CIF-SS Title For the underdog to take the title, it requires belief, energy and all of the right moves to exploit a matchup to its advantage.

The San Juan Hills boys tennis team found all of that to earn its first CIF-SS crown.

The Stallions upset No. 1 seed Orange Lutheran in the quarterfinals and No. 2 seed Mater Dei in the CIF-SS Final, the first title match in program history, to capture the Division 3 championship on May 10 at the Claremont Club.

Throughout the season, San Juan Hills had relied on its top three singles players

to deliver victories. Julien Sanseverino, Spencer Cinco and Chris O’Farrill were strong at the top for the Stallions to carry the struggling doubles teams.

Going into the playoffs, San Juan Hills coach Bruce Sanborn knew he needed to make a change for the Stallions to finally succeed at the next level.

“We needed to get everyone involved, change the negativity in doubles, boost the confidence by getting encouragement from everyone,” Sanborn said. “Once everyone is contributing, then it will be fun again, and hopefully then they can motivate each other.”

Sanseverino and Cinco went down to doubles and partnered with the No. 2 doubles team. The players of the No. 3 doubles team moved to singles. This lineup gave Sanborn two options depending on the opponent.

In the semifinals against Redlands East Valley, the new lineup excelled, as the Stallions maneuvered around Redlands’ doubles teams and No. 1 singles player.

Redlands won six points in the singles, but San Juan Hills took 10 of the other 12 points for the win.

In the Division 3 Final, Sanborn pulled one more string and moved the rotation order to hopefully gain one last edge over Mater Dei. It worked according to plan. San Juan

Hills led, 4-2, after the first round, but Mater Dei evened the match, 6-6, after the second round. The third round continued to an 8-8 tie, with the last two matches to decide the title.

Sanseverino and Scott Cole pulled out a rally to take a 7-6 tiebreaker in doubles to earn the overall game-count lead in the match, and John Lyon, San Juan Hills’ No. 8 player, clinched his last singles match for the 10-8 San Juan Hills victory and CIF-SS title.

CIF-SS Track and Field Championships • San Juan Hills’ Sean Rhyan won the Division 1 shot put title with a throw of 59 feet, 5 inches on May 11. Rhyan finished second at the CIF-SS Masters with a throw of 61 feet, 10.75 inches to qualify for State on Friday and Saturday, May 24 and 25.

• JSerra’s Peter Herold won Division 3 titles in the 1,600 and 3,200 meters. Herold ran a personal-record time of 4:10.52 in the 1,600. Herold also won the Masters title in the 1,600 and finished third in the 3,200 to qualify for State in both events. Teammate Anthony Grover also qualified for State in the 1,600.

• St. Margaret’s Nathan Soto won the Division 5 pole vault title with a personalrecord of 14 feet. CD

San Juan Hills’ Sean Rhyan won the CIF-SS Division 1 shot put title with a throw of 59 feet, 5 inches. Rhyan qualified for State with a secondplace throw at Masters. Photo: San Juan Hills High School