May 22, 2015

A New You: Tips and Resources for Life Improvement SPECIAL SECTION

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

MAY 22-JUNE 11, 2015 • VOLUME 13, ISSUE 10

Getting Louder

Local melanoma survivor Kristi Donahue has dedicated her life to raising awareness of the disease E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 5

San Juan Capistrano resident Kristi Donahue often talks to her clients at Stew’s Barber Shop in Ladera Ranch about the dangers of melanoma and protecting their skin. Photo: Allison Jarrell

El Nido Residents Speak Out Against Rent Increase EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

Bottiaux: Swimming lessons a must for drowning prevention LIVING/PAGE 14

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Tartans Lacrosse Crowned Champions SPORTS/PAGE 17

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EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING Juan Capistrano City Council announced Tuesday following a closed session vote that the city has settled the lawsuit filed by the Capistrano Taxpayers Association.

The choice to settle the suit means the city cannot appeal the April 20 decision by the 4th District Court of Appeal, which ruled that San Juan 2010 tiered water rate system was unconstitutional and did not sufficiently show that each tier was based on usage and the actual cost of water delivery. In July 2014 the city adopted a new tiered water rate structure.

Students and parents hold up signs with messages of support for former SCHS principal Michael Halt while standing outside of the CUSD board room during the May 13 meeting. Photo: Allison Jarrell

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week El Nido Residents Speak Out Against Rent Increase THE LATEST: A group of residents living in El Nido Mobile Estates have turned to the city for answers following a notification from their property owner of a $641 rent increase—which would double rent for some residents—beginning Sept. 1.

Located off of Ortega Highway, El Nido consists of 156 units for seniors, with rent ranging from $550 to $1,150. According to the city’s municipal code, “mobile home park rent increases imposed by the mobile home park property owners cannot exceed the average Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the preceding calendar year.” El Nido residents received a letter April 24 stating the park previously “intended to implement a rent increase based on a 1.3 percent CPI adjustment,” but the letter continued that the park owner would not be implementing that increase. On May 13, residents received notice that rent would be increased by $641 effective in September.

Cynthia Cook, an eight-year resident of El Nido, approached the City Council during public comment at Tuesday’s council meeting to ask about the particulars for filing a petition against the new rates. Cook described her neighbors as panicked over the rent hike.

Mayor Derek Reeve said the city’s attorney and staff have been directed to prepare written information for residents outlining the petition process, per the city’s rent control ordinance. According to City The Capistrano Dispatch May 22-June 11, 2015

Attorney Jeffrey Ballinger, the petition would need to be filed within 30 days after the rent increase goes into effect and would require signatures from 50 percent of the spaces occupied in the estates.

Attorney Robert Coldren, representing El Nido owner Richard Worley, told The Capistrano Dispatch Wednesday the notice of rent increase is not in conflict with city code. Coldren added that residents are not going to be evicted if they can’t pay the rent, so long as the city and residents do not sue, harass, or otherwise treat Worley unfairly.

“So long as the park owner is treated fairly by the city, the park owner has committed that no existing long-term residents of the community will be forced from the mobile home park due to an inability to pay all or any portion of the rent increase,” Coldren said.

Coldren said the owner’s goal is to help the long-term residents who truly need the help. He listed potential solutions including adjusting the rent increase to an amount that would not be a “hardship,” helping residents find roommates, or deferring the rent increase “so that it’s not collected during their lifetime.”

Coldren added that even with the $641 rent increase, Worley isn’t receiving “a market return on the property.”

WHAT’S NEXT: A group of El Nido residents is preparing to circulate a petition against the increase.

“It’s too early to say that it doesn’t comply with the ordinance,” Ballinger said of the rent increase. “I would say, that you can tell from the dollar figures that it’s a significant increase. It’s doubling, in some cases…”—Allison Jarrell

City Settles Tiered Water Rates Case THE LATEST: After more than four years of battling over tiered water rates, the San

WHAT’S NEXT: According to a press release, the city will “institute a streamlined process for crediting customers who were over-charged under the previous water rate structure.”

Jim Reardon of the Capistrano Taxpayers Association said in the release that he’s “delighted” to see the city avoiding further litigation and instead focusing on “urgent water conservation issues.”—AJ

HMLA-469 Crash Victims Identified THE LATEST: The six Camp Pendletonbased Marines who died when the UH-1Y helicopter they were piloting crashed May 12 in Charikot, Nepal have been identified by the U.S. Marine Corps.

The HMLA-469 members who died are Capt. Dustin R. Lukasiewicz, 29, of Harlan, Neb.; Capt. Christopher L. Norgren, 31, of Sedgwick, Kan.; Sgt. Ward M. Johnson, IV, 29, of Seminole, Fla.; Sgt. Eric M. Seaman, 30, of Riverside, Calif.; Cpl. Sara A. Medina, 23, of Kane, Ill.; and Lance Cpl. Jacob A. Hug, 22, of Maricopa, Ariz., according a USMC press release.

The troops were delivering aid and conducting relief operations to people in the country who were affected by a massive earthquake. All of those who died were decorated soldiers, some of whom had extensive combat experience. Two Nepalese soldiers killed in the crash were Tapendra Rawal and Basanta Titara, according to millitary.com.—Eric Heinz

CUSD Holds Special Closed Session Meeting THE LATEST: Following an impassioned Capistrano Unified School District meeting on May 13—during which distraught parents, students and staff spoke in support of former San Clemente High School Principal Michael Halt—the district’s board of trustees scheduled a special meeting for Thursday, May 21, at 4:30 p.m. to discuss “consideration of the employment/evaluation of performance/nonrenewal of public employee(s).”

At the board’s May 13 meeting, trustee John Alpay requested to agendize an

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“independent investigation into the facts and circumstances surrounding Michael Halt’s personnel matters.” The request came following nearly two hours of public comment in support of Michael Halt, who was removed from his position as principal in March and left the school campus earlier this month. Parents, staff and students are largely still wondering why Halt was let go, as state law prevents the district from publicly discussing personnel matters.

On May 13, Alpay requested discussion about an independent investigation take place at an early special meeting, but did not receive a second to support the motion.

His request did not appear on the board’s closed session agenda for May 21.

WHAT’S NEXT: District officials confirmed Wednesday that the May 21 meeting was closed session only. The board is obligated to report any actions taken during closed session. Results from the meeting were not available at press time. To view the agenda, visit www.capousd.ca.schoolloop.com. The next regularly-scheduled meeting is May 27 at 7 p.m.—AJ

Skate Park Location Takes New Turn THE LATEST: At Monday night’s Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission meeting, the selection of El Camino Real Park, which had been previously approved for future skate-friendly development in San Juan Capistrano, was denied 6-1 by the new commission as the potential location for a skate park.

On Dec. 15, the former Parks, Recreation and Senior Services Commission voted unanimously, 5-0, to approve El Camino Real Park as the preferred spot for a skatefriendly development. Proponents of the park noted how accessible it is, with preexisting amenities. However, the majority of the new commission saw issues with the location due to safety concerns related to the park’s proximity to Camino Capistrano.

Rather than approve the El Camino Real location, many of the commissioners encouraged the youth and community organizers to “go big” and aim for a skate park in the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park, situated near Marco Forster Middle School and the Boys & Girls Club. The new suggestion drew a round of applause from the youth in attendance.

WHAT’S NEXT: Stay tuned for updates and follow Capistrano Grind Skate Park on Facebook.—AJ Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about?

••• Send your suggestions to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY ALLISON JARRELL

La Sala Beautification Project at Library Progresses The San Juan Capistrano Garden Club has entered into a five-year understanding with the city to design, enhance and maintain the La Sala courtyard and entry at the SJC Library. On hand for the installation of phase one of the La Sala beautification project on April 21, were the crew from Stevens Gardens—Salvador Contraras, Nicholas Vieyra and Joaquin Estrada; Dan Reynolds and his crew from AC Landscaping; David Hubler and Gil Leon from the city of San Juan Capistrano; and Valerie Drey and Andrea Jones from the SJC Garden Club.

The crew from Stevens Gardens drilled holes in pots, helped stabilize them and planted them once they were in place, and Reynolds’ crew made sure the pots had a stable surface to sit on with decomposed granite installed underneath. Plumbing was also installed for watering.

NCL Chapter Presented with National Recognition The Capistrano Coast Chapter of the National Charity League was awarded The Outstanding Chartered Chapter of 2015 at the national NCL conference in Seattle on April 24. National President Shawn Sylvia presented the award to chapter President Eileen Vansell. Also in attendance from the Capistrano Coast chapter was incoming President Rina Benrubi, PresidentElect Jennifer Wyckoff and Policies Chair Shelly Toole.

The Capistrano Coast chapter has been an active NCL chapter for 35 years and was awarded The Outstanding Chartered Chapter from a total of 202 chapters across the United States. The award was given for the implementation of the chapter’s 2014-15 theme: “The Power of WE is Stronger than the Power of ME!” National Charity League, Inc. is a mother/daughter organization dedicated to serving local philanthropies while fostering the mother/daughter relationship. Mothers and daughters commit to a six-year program, from Seventh to 12th grade, centered on community service.

The members participate in philanthropic work, educational activities, leadership development and cultural enrichment.

The Capistrano Coast Chapter of NCL supports 28 charitable organizations throughout the community.

SJC Historical Society Offers Camp Pendleton Tour The San Juan Capistrano Historical Society will be hosting a tour of Marine The Capistrano Dispatch May 22–June 11, 2015

TUESDAY, MAY 26

Planning Commission Meeting

Phase one of the La Sala Beautification project was installed April 21. Photo: Courtesy of Valerie Drey

Corps Base Camp Pendleton on Thursday, June 25. The day-long event will include a tour of the U.S. Navy LCAC ACU 5 hovercraft facility followed by lunch at Iron Mikes in the Pacific View Club on base.

After lunch, the group will tour the Infantry Immersion Training Facility, where Marines are trained in an intense lifelike Afghanistan Village in urban engagement techniques. USMC Col. (ret.) Jim Williams and USMC Lt. Col. (ret.) Dave Weir will be the on-base hosts. The tour bus will depart from the Los Rios Park lot promptly at 8:30 a.m. and is expected to arrive back in San Juan Capistrano around 5 p.m.

The tour is $55 per person and includes transportation, lunch and two tours. Space is limited and advanced reservation is required by calling Gwen Vermeulen at the O’Neill Museum, 949.493.8444.

Local Pony Club Hosts Championship Qualifying Quiz Rally On March 7, the Bridges Equestrian Pony Club Riding Center of San Juan Capistrano hosted a quiz rally for over 60 Pony Club members from throughout Southern California at Casper’s Wilderness Park.

Competitors age 7 to 18 worked in teams of four to demonstrate their equestrian knowledge in five phases of competition: barn, classroom, written test, stations and mega-room. These phases require that a competitor be able to complete hands-on tasks, verbally answer questions and solve problems as both a team and individually.

The Southern California Pony Club Region will be sending two teams of quiz competitors to the United States Pony Club Western Championships in Woodside, Calif., at the end of July.

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. was founded in 1954 as a nonprofit national youth organization to teach riding and horsemanship through a formal educational program. Youth members range in age from as young as 4 through age 25, and include adult members of the Horsemasters Program. There are approximately

10,000 members throughout the country.

To learn more about San Juan’s Pony Club, contact Allison Carpenter by calling 949.395.8349 or e-mail allie@bridgesequestrian.com.

SJC Chamber Seeks Business of the Year Nominations

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

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting

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

FRIDAY, MAY 29

The San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations from residents, visitors and members of the business community, for its annual “Business of the Year” award.

The award is given annually to a business in San Juan that has gone above and beyond to encourage, help and support the community. The award recognizes businesses that exhibit good business practices, demonstrate quality of service, contribute to local economic growth, show community support and involvement, provide a positive impact in San Juan Capistrano and support local nonprofit organizations.

Last year, for the first time ever, the award was split between two co-winners: Mission Grill and Fluidmaster. Other previous winners include Ricardo’s Place, ZOOMARS and San Juan Photo & Digital.

Nomination forms are available by calling the chamber office at 949.493.4700, emailing info@sanjuanchamber.com or stopping by at 31421 La Matanza Street.

Completed forms are due back by June 5.

The winner of the 2014-2015 “Business of the Year” Award will be announced at the Chamber’s Installation and Awards Dinner on July 9, 5:30 p.m. at El Adobe de Capistrano. In addition to Business of the Year, the event recognizes San Juan Capistrano “Citizen of the Year” and Chamber “Ambassador of the Year.” Tickets are $65 per person or $600 for a table of 10, and can be purchased by calling the chamber.

Proceeds benefit the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce.

Coffee Chat

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

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes

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8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome. Go to www. facebook.com/sjccoffeechat for more.

TUESDAY, JUNE 2

City Council, Housing Authority and Successor Agency Meeting

5 p.m. The city’s governing body meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

To see the night’s agenda, visit, www. sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

Downtown Farmers Market

3 p.m.–7 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from around 40 vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday. Visit, www.farmersmarketsjc.com to find out more.

TUESDAY, JUNE 9

Planning Commission Meeting

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

FRIDAY, JUNE 12

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Getting Louder Local melanoma survivor Kristi Donahue has dedicated her life to raising awareness of the aggressive disease

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

t started with a tiny mole on her neck.

Kristi Donahue had known it was there her whole life, but it was when she was pregnant with her second son, at the age of 38, that her friends began asking her if it was new.

It wasn’t, of course, but she decided to look back at some old photographs anyway. That’s when she noticed how black her once light-colored mole had become.

After a year of visits to her practitioner, she finally got the news—it was melanoma.

Donahue admits she didn’t know much about skin cancer at the time. Born in Anaheim and raised in Dana Point, Donahue grew up much like other SoCal kids, always playing in the sun. During her elementary and junior high school years, she’d often tanned out on the beach with friends, in the backyard with baby oil or, after she turned 15, at tanning salons.

“I went to tanning salons up until my diagnosis at 38,” Donahue recalls. “I knew nothing about what a vicious killer it is, nor did I know it’s the fastest growing cancer in the world.”

In the year following her surgery and recovery, Donahue said she, like many who go through the isolating experience, tip-toed around the subject of melanoma.

For 25 years, she’s worked as a barber at Stew’s Barber Shop in Ladera Ranch, and she began feeling the urge to let her clients know when they had a suspicious mole or blemish with red flags.

About two years ago, Donahue had a new client come in, and while cutting his hair, she noticed a mole on his scalp.

Taking a chance, she offered up the knowledge and asked if he had ever had it looked at. Her client, Eric, said no. She told him it might be nothing, but that he could get it checked at the dermatologist across the street. He went straight to the doctor from his hair appointment. They did a biopsy that same day, and two weeks later, Eric got the call that it was melanoma.

Eric was 33 at the time, and after coming out of surgery, he was told by his oncologist that had he waited a month longer to get it checked out, he would have been gone within a year—the melanoma had very nearly penetrated the final membrane protecting his brain.

The Capistrano Dispatch May22-June 11, 2015

Donahue wrapped her car with facts and images about melanoma, and often holds impromptu classes about the disease when she can. Photo: Allison Jarrell

for Donahue was having her brand new “It was that situation that really set Toyota Rav4 professionally wrapped with me on fire,” Donahue said. “He came in facts, photos and other melanoma-related later with tears in his eyes, and said, ‘If imagery. it wasn’t for you, I probably wouldn’t be “The car was really born out of sheer here next year.’ Here’s this man, looking frustration,” Donahue said. “I kept seeing at me with tears in his eyes—he doesn’t people come into the barbershop, burnt even know me—and he says thank you to a crisp, and most of them don’t want to for coming out of your comfort zone.” talk about it. I’d get frustrated when I went Since then, Donahue’s life has been home at night and would about breaking boundarsee people continuing to ies and stepping out of lose their battles.” that comfort zone. Within Further Research For free information on melanoma Donahue went to a week, Donahue transSpeedpro Imaging formed her barber station, and identifying signs of the disease, visit the Melanoma Research Coastal OC in Fountain filling it to the brim with Valley to have her one“an arsenal of information” Foundation at www.melanoma. org. Donahue’s Facebook page can of-a-kind ride designed of fact sheets, dermatolobe found at Kristi Nyhuis Donahue. and wrapped. In January, gist cards and sunscreen packets. She began pouring her heart and soul into her Facebook page, transforming her personal site into an educational forum and a welcoming meeting space for people newly-diagnosed or battling melanoma. With more than 2,500 friends now, her open page is no longer about her own life—it’s filled with the stories of others struggling with the disease, many in their teens, 20s or 30s.

“The heaviest hit ages are 20 to 29; it’s the number one diagnosed cancer. For ages 15 to 29, it’s the number two diagnosed cancer. It’s literally attacking our youth,” Donahue said. “It’s very limited awareness that we get. That’s why I’ve become so loud.”

Perhaps the most noticeable move

“Hope the Melanoma Mobile” was born. Since then, she’s been giving impromptu classes about melanoma to those intrigued by the images and facts on her car—like the image of a tanning bed on the side door, letting passersby know that the luminous beds have been classified by the World Health Organization as a class one carcinogen.

“If you tan indoors before the age of 35, you increase your chances by 75 percent of getting melanoma,” Donahue said. “Tanning beds are to skin as cigarettes are to lungs.”

Donahue also has collages on her car— photos she’s compiled from her Facebook page of youth and adults who are either fighting melanoma or have already lost their battle. She knows every name and

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story behind their smiling faces, most of whom are children and teens.

“I have seen so many people lose their battles—beautiful young men and women.

It’s terrifying,” Donahue said. “It’s absolutely one of the most vicious, ruthless, non-discriminating diseases out there.”

With her amassed knowledge and everburning passion for spreading awareness, Donahue was recently selected by the Melanoma Research Foundation to speak to Congress about melanoma, specifically the alarming rate of pediatric diagnoses.

As a single mom living in San Juan with her two sons, she’s always checking them, head-to-toe, for any changes. She’s been keeping an especially close eye on a mole atop her 4-year-old son’s scalp—it was during her pregnancy with him that her own melanoma came into being.

“It’s scary, especially because it was my pregnancy with him that brought my melanoma on, and because I know it can transfer. You get extra concerned about it,” she said.

Today, Donahue isn’t shy with her clients. She’ll tell them right off the bat if something looks awry, especially on the head of a child. If she gets a teenager in her chair, she’ll utilize the entire haircut to educate them about wearing sunscreen.

Her coworkers may laugh at her, and parents may roll their eyes, but she knows the value of educating others—of being loud.

“This isn’t the type of disease to sugarcoat,” Donahue said. “You have to really jolt people into reality.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY EVAN DA SILVA

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

Sunday, May 17 SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Alipaz Street/Via Madrigal (11:57 p.m.)

Police conducted a patrol check for a white Chevrolet Suburban with two to four people inside. The caller said the vehicle was unknown to the area and the occupants were pointing flashlights at nearby houses.

Saturday, May 16 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle El Suazal, 26600 Block (11:13 p.m.)

A woman told police her 23-year-old son was under the influence of illegal drugs and cooking more of them on her stove.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 32100 Block (10:26 p.m.) Police assistance was requested after a homeless man in his 30s, who was sleeping in a pharmacy, was refusing to leave.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Mission Hills Drive/Rancho Viejo Road (5:45 p.m.) A caller reported a possible drug deal taking place in a black BMW occupied by a woman. It was believed to be related to one of the homes in the area.

A caller said a boy kicked a soccer ball at their truck. The subject did not desire to file a police report because no damage occurred, but requested police talk to the boy about what he had done. While speaking with officers, the boy said he accidently kicked the ball towards the vehicle. Another man from the area informed police this was an ongoing issue with a group of about five other 14- to 15-year-old subjects.

ID THEFT Paseo Adelanto, 32500 Block (3:25 p.m.)

A woman reported someone had opened a PayPal account in her name.

NARCOTIC VIOLATION Avenida De La Vista/Calle San Francisco (12:34 a.m.) Upon arriving at Orange County Jail, officers found a plastic baggie containing about half a gram of cocaine underneath a new inmate’s feet.

Thursday, May 14 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Arroya/Via Sonora (5:37 p.m.)

Two boys were attempting to steal a park bench with a hummingbird design on it.

The caller told police they were probably taking it down to the creek where the boys regularly smoke illegal drugs.

BIKE STOP Del Obispo Street/Paseo Adelanto (3:25 a.m.) Police arrested a man after a consent search revealed an eight-inch fixed-blade knife concealed in the man’s jacket sleeve against his forearm.

Wednesday, May 13

PATROL CHECK Oso Road/Camino Capistrano (3:19 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested for several off-road pickup trucks that were speeding on the horse trails near the stables.

LOST PROPERTY Via Del Mar, 28200 Block (6:54 p.m.)

A man lost his backpack containing his cellphone and iPad. He did not see anyone take it and it had been missing since last Friday.

ASISST OUTSIDE AGENCY Camino Capistrano/Ortega Highway (1:44 p.m.) The Orange County Fire Authority responded to reports of a 15-year-old boy with blood on his clothes who ran into El Adobe de Capistrano.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Chueca, 30600 Block (5:35 p.m.)

A woman informed police of multiple boys who repeatedly hop over her fence and stay in her home while she is at work.

WELFARE CHECK Doheny Park Road, 33900 Block (12:43 p.m.) A woman in her 30s wearing a baby harness was stepping out into traffic lanes and accepting money from people.

NARCOTIC VIOLATION Alipaz Street, 32100 Block (3:18 p.m.)

Two men on bikes made a drug deal in front of Tony’s Liquor.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-NON INJURY Rancho Viejo Road/Ortega Highway (12:35 p.m.) While she was texting, a woman driving a silver Suzuki Grand Vitara rear-ended a woman in a white Lexus.

Friday, May 15 DISTURBANCE Calle Delphina, 26500 Block (8:43 p.m.)

The Capistrano Dispatch May 22–June 11, 2015

CITIZEN ASSIST Paseo Nicole, 27900 Block (2:13 p.m.)

A man told police he found his lost pants, but that he wanted to talk to a deputy about a woman who has gone into his backyard two to three times a week and scratched on his window. He sounded “extremely suspicious” and said someone must have broken into his home sometime the night before and stolen his dress slacks.

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SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor

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

VERY HIGH DENSITY HOUSING AND BANKRUPTCY IN SAN JUAN’S FUTURE? —Steve Behmerwohld, San Juan Capistrano Did you know that Item F8 on the agenda at the City Council meeting of May 5 was for a general plan amendment to allow “very high density” housing to be built for “very low income” residents less than a mile from the Mission? You may not have noticed because the council chose to approve the item without any public discussion at all. The item was buried in the meeting’s consent calendar, which Mayor Derek Reeve introduced as “items that are considered routine.” The hidden vote highlighted at least three broken promises made by the new council members during their fall campaigns. Throughout the campaign, and during the referendum efforts they led, Kerry Ferguson and Pam Patterson criticized incumbents for voting to amend the city’s general plan. During these attacks, they claimed the general plan was the constitution of our town and should be held sacred and not changed.

What happened? Did our “small town character” change that fast?

At the previous council meeting, on April 21, the council majority voted against a general plan amendment to allow 240 homes at the Vermeulen Ranch site.

Mayor Reeve and Councilman Sam Allevato voted in favor. The housing density at Laguna Glen was less than half the density that was approved in the initiation of the general plan amendment at the City Hall site, just two weeks later. The Laguna Glen project was previously approved, but that approval was subsequently overturned by referendum, without a vote of the people. When Laguna Glen moved its project to Rancho Mission Viejo (although the project still borders San Juan on two sides), the developer saved $15 million.

The city of San Juan lost $20 million in fees for that project. By denying the general plan amendment for the residences, the City Council basically condemned the Vermeulen site. The city essentially told the developer that they had to leave this 29-acre parcel a “farm.” Over the years, the city has previously allowed nearly all of the surrounding properties to be changed from agriculture to residential. A 100-acre parcel might be feasible for a farm. A 500-acre parcel would be more realistic. A 29-acre farm is not viable.

By denying the general plant amendment and condemning the Vermeulen property, the council is inviting a slamdunk lawsuit that will make the Scalzo lawsuit look like peanuts. By voting to initiate The Capistrano Dispatch May 22-June 11, 2015

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Allison Jarrell, 949.388.7700, x108 ajarrell@thecapistranodispatch.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Debra Wells, 949.388.7700, x104 dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com A guest speaker presents information on rebate programs for drought-tolerant gardening and water conservation projects at this year’s Eco Garden Expo. Photo: Allison Jarrell

a general plan amendment at the city’s own property two weeks after denying a general plan amendment at the Laguna Glen site, the council majority has greatly contributed to the credibility of the lawsuit that will undoubtedly be filed by the Vermeulen/ Laguna Glen people.

Consider: $20 million lost by overturning Laguna Glen + $40 million in the next lawsuit = bankruptcy.

ECO GARDEN EXPO A BOON TO COMMUNITY —Alex Choperena, San Juan Capistrano I would like to voice my support for the continuation of Eco Garden Expo in San Juan Capistrano. Having attracted over 3,000 people for two years in a row, the event can be a boon for local business for years to come. The number of major local event sponsors like Valley Crest, Fluid Masters and more would agree. You can also count the immediate neighboring businesses like Whim, Sundried Tomato, Ruby’s, We Olive, Nest, Las Catrinas and others who felt confident enough to sponsor the event’s program.

This is before taking into consideration the exposure garnered by the local business that participate as vendors each year.

Many of the same business who participated the first year were back for the second and many more joined on necessitating creative space use to accommodate a growing exhibition. All of this is an indication of a growing interest and support for the movement that Eco Garden Expo represents.

Regarding that movement, I feel it’s appropriate to disclose that I also volunteer my time as the digital marketing director for Expo. I became involved by being a vendor at the show its first year. During that first year, I saw enough potential to then volunteer my time to help it grow. I, and the volunteers I work alongside, recognize this is an opportunity to help grow somethinghopefully in the town that we love.

It is that forward-looking idea of potential

that I want to emphasize. We are now living with the reality of a drought and an era where water will become as precious as oil or gold. The pure mission of the Expo—to educate and encourage people regarding water-wise landscaping and technology will be incredibly impactful in the years to come. To establish San Juan Capistrano as the epicenter for a movement like that will be a testament to whoever has the foresight to do so. I have lived here (minus school and a couple years after) for 17 years. It is a wonderful community that has a rich history. But we now have the opportunity to grow upward, using those strong roots to reach toward the sky.

I see people like myself, Anna Rodrigues (our communications director), and Steven Homestead (our grant writer) and I see the younger generation of under-30-yearolds excited to grow a community in our backyard. We observed the local business community, our neighbors, and our friends out in Los Rios on a sunny weekend, excited to learn and experience the fruits of our own labor. We are the future, laying the groundwork for a great new San Juan tradition, hoping that San Juan will support us in doing so.

So from a business, philosophical and personal perspective, I hope that you will recognize Eco Garden Expo’s value to the San Juan Community and I look forward to seeing you next year in Los Rios Park!

(Your front-porch-pop is on me).

IN FAVOR OF MORATORIUM ON NEW HOUSING DURING DROUGHT —Margaret Chard, San Juan Capistrano Okay. Let me get this straight. I can no longer keep my grass green (we are being encouraged to go native), I only flush when there is something other than pee in the bowl, I need to turn our fountains off, I limit myself to baths with four inches of water in the tub—or shower for two to three (Cont. on page 10) Page 8

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SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 8) minutes—yet 14,000 homes can be built out on the Ortega? Each residence will have at least three toilets. That is 42,000 toilets alone, plus swimming pools. Do we really need 14,000 more residential homes? Why not concentrate on remodeling existing homes? That way the trades can keep busy. I have read all about the reclaimed water etc., but still, all this building will be a great drain on our environment. At this critical time, there should be a moratorium on new building. And finally, something is really wrong in wasting all that water up north to protect smelt. If they live up to their name, we would be better off with them gone.

NO SDG&E SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SUBSTATION EXPANSION —Randy Lubert, San Juan Capistrano For some time now, San Diego Gas & Electric has been throwing a considerable amount of money around San Juan Capistrano and surrounding communities in order to slam through their San Juan Capistrano substation “enhancement”—a lot of money.

This has been an aggressive lobbying campaign to convince local and neighboring residents and businesses, as well as the California Public Utilities Commission, that this project in San Juan Capistrano is critical for reliability. What a sham.

The reason SDG&E is so fixated on this substation redevelopment rests squarely on their bottom line. They reviewed several alternatives and it evidently proved far cheaper for them to retrofit the existing

Camino Capistrano substation rather than to move it to the area that the upgrade will most benefit—the planned 14,000 residences and commercial centers to the east, which is not located in the city of San Juan Capistrano. Alternative F—an option SDG&E rejected because of cost—places the substation squarely where it belongs— in Rancho Mission Viejo, with its vast open space. Very soon, this area will sport an intense electrical appetite, which will require feeding. This is code for “reliability.”

The existing San Juan Capistrano substation is located within a densely populated residential area. Aside from the health dangers that this “enhancement” will rain down upon the community, the city will be forced to endure the ill effects of more than five years of construction delays on Camino Capistrano, the main traffic artery serving the city. If completed, the San Juan Capistrano skyline will feature several 50-foot-tall concrete megaliths protected by a 10-foothigh and 360-foot-long wall, providing a very unwelcoming gateway statement for visitors and residents alike.

SDG&E is spending a lot of lobbying money so that they can save a lot more money. It is a travesty that this utility and its supporters place profitability ahead of what is in the best interests of our city and its residents. Instead, SDG&E should spend their money on relocating the substation to the new town that it is intended to best serve.

Again, Alternative F. SDG&E, do the right thing and move this project out of San Juan Capistrano.

IN PRAISE OF THE ECO GARDEN EXPO —Greg O’Brien, Connecticut It is with unequalled gratitude that I write to you about my recent visit to Southern California. Within its borders, the land is called San Juan Capistrano, but the very real treasure is its people and Marianne Taylor is a shining example.

On a mission to help people thrive together through gardening and life skills, Marianne brought Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens to life and, because of her tireless commitment to teaching and helping others, the idea of the Eco Garden Expo became a reality.

Making the trip out from Connecticut, I was truly honored to act as Master of Ceremonies for Eco Garden Expo 2015 in beautiful Los Rios Park. Steeped in history and heritage, I quickly saw that San Juan Capistrano is what America is all about. It is rich beyond compare with friendship, loyalty and a respect for others that so many places in our world cannot seem to realize, nor develop.

Marketing myself and others over the past 38 years, I have been involved in countless events around the country and, without question, the Eco Garden Expo is an absolute homerun. I saw a town come together, while seeing the fabric of America unfold right before my eyes. On May 2 and 3, both young and old and everyone in between shared in two days filled with family fun activities and valuable learning opportunities, while walking away with a profound new respect for our environment.

Eco Garden Expo was directly responsible for bringing nearly 4,000 visitors into Los Rios Park, people who otherwise would have spent their weekend somewhere else.

It’s very clear that when people enjoy what’s being offered, they will indeed return and they will bring additional family and friends with them. I can only see the Eco Garden Expo flourishing and growing in years to come, and it only makes sense for all to embrace it.

San Juan Capistrano is an amazing place, but beyond the richness of its land, its people are richer still, with a spirit the rest of America can only hope to mirror. There may be a shortage of water in San Juan Capistrano, but the enthusiasm and sense of community were flowing like a river.

Eco Garden Expo 2015 was an awesome event and a definite boost to everyone in San Juan Capistrano. I am sincerely looking forward to returning next year to help make Eco Garden Expo 2016 even more of a major success story for everyone in San Juan and the surrounding communities. I’ve always believed that it’s a very good day when you learn something new, and I walked away from Eco Garden Expo with a wealth of new knowledge that I can’t wait to share.

Congratulations to Marianne Taylor and her wonderful and dedicated staff of volunteers who are striving to make an incredible and lasting impact on the place they call home. San Juan Capistrano clearly represents the true fabric of America, a rich and vibrant fabric that I will proudly wear for all time.

GUEST OPINION: By Renee Ritchie

Positive Equestrian Projects on the Rise in San Juan

H

i, ya’ll. It’s good to be back!

I wanted everyone to know what wonderful equestrian projects are occurring in San Juan Capistrano. The new City Council has done so much in such a short amount of time, and it truly is exciting.

Horses have been in my life since I was 2 years old. My dad’s family owned a farm in southern Illinois—no running water or electricity, just the bare minimum. It was quite magical as a kid; my playground was nature and we honored each other. I still have that inner child awe with everything that surrounds me.

Our family moved to San Juan for its trails, history and small town ambiance, but mostly, because of my dream to have horses on our property. My 27-year-old mare that I rescued when she was 2 still resides with us. Recently, I purchased a Haflinger horse; he lives at Tar Farms Stables, and we love it there.

So to say that natural ambiance is important to me is an understatement. Leaving things natural is unique, and horses are becoming a thing of the past. To be an

The Capistrano Dispatch May 22-June 11, 2015

advocate for these amazing horses, and let all San Juan residents have the opportunity to enjoy their presence, is my passion.

San Juan’s 42-plus-mile Renee Ritchie multiuse trail system is rare; preserving and improving these trails, as well as our open space, is critical.

These trails have been shared by cyclists, hikers and horseback riders for years, and we all get along quite famously, without swales and independent marked trails, just natural.

Councilwoman Kerry Ferguson was appointed by Mayor Derek Reeve as the equestrian liaison, and she has worked with a few equestrian residents, including myself, to be our voice/representation.

Thus far, she has worked with city staff to rearrange the equestrian staging area in Reata Park back to the original plan of 2012. It is not quite completed, so don’t panic. The council recently voted on improvements for Phase II of the Northwest Open Space. One of the improvements will

be putting in a pole corral. This was the suggestion of Councilwoman Ferguson— she has been awesome as well as a great horsewoman.

All of our council members have been involved, somehow, with horses in their lives, except for Mayor Reeve (he freely admits it). But he has been extremely proactive for our equestrian needs. Mayor Reeve recently took the initiative to reconfigure commissions. The Trails and Equestrian Commission’s duties no longer include studying and making recommendations regarding the city’s open space. However, open space has moved and become the responsibility of the Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission.

This commission only wants the best for residents and will serve our open space needs well.

Our Trails and Equestrian Commission—comprised of five smart, passionate and forward-thinking women—can now focus on our multi-use trails and equestrian priorities. All members have served on city commissions prior, and I am lucky to be serving with Chairwoman Ilse Byrnes, JenPage 10

nifer Friess, Jill Hanna and Gail Zukow.

Please come and express your needs at the Trails and Equestrian Commission. We value your input. Meetings take place the first Monday of the month at 6 p.m. in the City Council chambers. For more information, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

Let’s support this new council. I am sure Councilman Sam Allevato appreciates their ideas of improving and embracing the equestrian history and lifestyle just as he does—with no politics, just passion.

More great news to come! Happy trails.

Renee Ritchie has resided with her family in San Juan Capistrano for 15 years. She currently serves on the Trails and Equestrian Commission, and has served on the Open Space Committee, Open Space, Trails and Equestrian Commission, Shea Therapeutic Riding Center Board and Advisory Board for the San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition. 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 Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

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A NEW YOU

A New You

When it comes to health, you may have heard people say, “It is never too late to make a change.” It’s true. Personally, I’ve also heard, “Why put off to tomorrow what you can do today?” That is often easier said than done.

Life gets in the way of plans. Or is it what happens while you are making plans? Either way, I think it is safe to say we all want to live a happier and healthier life—sometimes we just don’t know where to start. As you read through this annual special section, “A New You,” you will see columns and resources from local experts in pharmaceuticals, fitness, mental health and ancient healing, among others. These articles—straight from the professional authority—are aimed at helping you, and all members of your family, achieve a balanced, joyful and healthy life. So, read through and see what may help on your journey to becoming a new you.

—ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

Page 3

A NEW YOU

Fare Intolerance Is your diet affecting your general health?

By Anne-Marie Amigleo, Holistic Health Coach

THERE’S A GOOD CHANCE CERTAIN FOODS ARE WREAKING HAVOC INSIDE YOUR BODY. Do you suffer from fatigue, brain fog, headaches, cravings, weight gain, joint pain, irregular digestion, skin rashes, runny nose, depression, mood swings and other symptoms that seem to appear without cause?

If so, read on. All of these are possible signs of food sensitivities. Identifying a sensitivity to food may be the breakthrough you’ve been looking for to reclaim your health.

Everyone has unique food and lifestyle needs. Food affects everyone differently and most people have no idea their bodies react poorly to certain foods. Every time you eat a food you are sensitive to, a reaction is triggered. Reactions can strike anywhere from a few hours to days after the problematic food is eaten.

The most common “trigger-causing” foods are corn, soy, dairy, eggs, wheat and gluten. Yes, gluten-free is more than a fad diet. However, depending on the person, other foods can trigger reactions too.

There are a couple of ways you can identify a food sensitivity. First, ask your doctor for a blood test to measure the presence of immunoglobulin E antibodies to specific foods. These tests, coupled with your medical history, can help identify probable allergies. However, they are not always 100 percent accurate.

Another way to identify a food sensitivity is through an elimination diet—a diet where you remove “trigger” foods for a period of time. During this time, take note of any bodily changes you experience.

Then, after the elimination phase, move into the reintroduction phase where you slowly introduce the previously removed foods one at a time to see if there is a reaction.

When realizing you have to remove certain foods from your diet, many feelings may arise: frustration, anger, or even fear. That’s because it’s much more than knowing what to eat and what not to eat.

It’s about learning new habits and changing your lifestyle. But the right system, support and accountability can make the process as easy as possible. You can regain your health and vitality, and look and feel amazing too.

Anne-Marie Amigleo is a Certified Holistic Health Coach and former special education teacher who specializes in teaching families how to address food sensitivities with diet and lifestyle changes to improve chronic conditions. Visit www. amigleohealthcoach.com to find out more.

Common Allergy, Intolerance Prone Foods

Peanuts Page 4

Eggs

Seafood

Milk

Soy

Tree Nuts

Wheat

A NEW YOU

Consistency is the key.

Show up, especially on the days you don’t want to.

A New You through Balance

FITNESS SPOTLIGHT TRAINING CAMP Hot yoga, barre and circuit training: These classes make up the Training Camp’s fitness lineup. This isn’t your typical hot yoga studio. The Training Camp touts a one-of-a-kind heating system that keeps a constant stream of fresh air circulating.

But perhaps the center’s best feature is its understanding of parenthood. Each day, morning classgoers can bring their infants, toddlers and kids to playcare—just another way the Training Camp sets clients up for success in a healthy, encouraging environment.

34000 Via De Agua, San Juan Capistrano 949.489.8100, www.tchotyoga.com

FITNESS SPOTLIGHT BILLY BLANKS TAE BO STUDIO

Personalized, compounded medications can address your individual needs, restore stability

By Dr. Eugene Medley, Sea View Pharmacy

ARE YOU TAKING CARE OF YOU? Life is full of ups and downs and unpredictable obstacles that can lead to an array of changes in your body. Every day we experience a change to the balance that keeps us centered. It is how we handle these unique and individual experiences that make us feel ourselves or whole.

Of course the easiest way to overcome the everyday challenges that we encounter is through proper lifestyle choices: proper nutrition through a balanced diet, exercise via an active lifestyle versus a sedentary existence and emotional wellbeing by overcoming that onslaught of stress that we pile on ourselves. But of course, that is only if you can manage to stay on the so called easy path.

So, are you providing yourself all of the tools at your disposal to achieve a balanced life?

An effective tool that I have found is to restore balance through pharmaceutical compounding and nutraceutical supplementation. Nutraceuticals provide building blocks for health. Pharmacy compounding is the art and science of preparing customized medications for specific patients.

Its practice dates to the origins of pharmacy, way back to Babylonia. In the 1950s and ’60s, pharmaceutical companies became mass manufacturers of drugs, and the Doctor of Pharmacy’s role changed from an apothecary to a dispenser of

manufactured dosage forms. However, this “one-size-fits-all” approach meant that some patients’ medication needs were not being met.

Recently, compounding has experienced a major resurgence. Modern technology, innovative techniques and research have allowed pharmacists to create personalized medications via scientific processes that defined a specific set of standards for the quality and consistency of medications being produced.

Informed and involved patients are working with their doctors to address their unique and individual health needs.

A compounding pharmacist can consult with your doctor about ways to personalize a medication for you. Through a triad relationship of patient, physician and pharmacist, all three of us can work together to solve your unique needs to restore your balance and achieve that “new you.”

Dr. Eugene Medley, owner and pharmacist of Sea View Pharmacy located in San Clemente, is recognized as an expert in pharmaceutical compounding, a method that provides individualized therapy to patients. Visit www.seaviewpharmacy.com or call 949.496.0123 to find out more.

Billy Blanks Tae Bo Studio. Photo: Courtesy

This is more than a gym. It’s a family affair at Billy Blanks Tae Bo® Studio where support is the ultimate result’s factor. Here, all involved parties, whether coaches or fellow clients, work together to achieve one another’s health and fitness goals. From Tae Kwon Do to the full-body, at-home workout that took America by storm in the 1990s, Tae Bo classes are taught by a team of experienced instructors and the creator of these fast-paced, martial arts-meets-dance workouts, Billy Blanks.

34207 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point 949.542.4348, www.taebostudio.com

“A power plant doesn’t have energy, it generates energy. Your body is a power plant, and you always have enough energy to finish your workout strong.”

—Billy Blanks, Billy Blanks Tae Bo Studio Page 5

A NEW YOU

Aging Gracefully A look at age management medicine

By Dr. Colin X. Jairam, Hybrid MD

LET’S FACE IT, THE AGING PROCESS IS NO FUN FOR ANYONE. Women deal with menopause while men go through something similar called andropause. Age Management Medicine is an emerging medical specialty that seeks to address the aging process for both men and women. One can think of it as a wellness specialty that serves to prevent the onset of disease and, in some cases, reverse the beginning stages of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. Heart disease alone accounts for 800,000 American deaths annually.

A good age management program starts with extensive lab work that looks at various inflammatory markers and disease causing indicators, much more than what would be on a standard lab panel.

Youth Isn’t Wasted on the Young

Finding the right fit, staying active as you age

Had George Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde and Mark Twain (the disputed authors of the quote: “Youth is wasted on the young”) lived in south Orange County today, they may have rethought their choice of words.

Each day of the week, in senior centers throughout Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, free and low-cost classes, activities and meals are offered to senior residents. From yoga and pilates to bingo, bridge and casino trips, there is rarely a shortage of activities for the young at heart.

DANA POINT Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street 949.496.4252, www.danapoint.org SAN CLEMENTE Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria 949.498.3322, www.san-clemente.org SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO San Juan Community Center, 25925 Camino Del Avion 949.493.5911, www.sanjuancapistrano.org

Using this information, your age management doctor can determine if you are deficient in any hormones—the main cause of aging being the declining hormone levels we experience. This loss seems to be more evident after the age of 30 for both men and women. In fact, testosterone levels in men decline at a rate of 2 percent per year after the age of 30, leading to the symptoms of andropause.

Aging is also directly linked to the food we eat. Much of our diet consists of highly-processed foods that can lead to inflammation in our bodies. Inflammation, in turn, accelerates the aging process and leads to disease. Age management care is most beneficial when an individual follows an anti-inflammatory diet. It’s a fact: An anti-inflammatory diet is the foundation of any good age management program.

There are many tools out there, like the JZ Fitness Nutrition app by fitness expert Jennifer Zerling that teaches just that—an anti-inflammatory diet with more than 50 meal suggestions.

Additionally, a lack of movement and weight gain accelerates the aging process far more than we realize. Age managePage 6

ment addresses exercise, including frequency, duration and intensity, for all age groups. Improving your cardiovascular endurance through exercise helps to minimize your risk for cardiovascular disease—the number one killer in adults today, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Age management therefore addresses three key factors in the aging process: hormone deficiency, diet and exercise.

Looking at these three things collectively rather than separately helps to minimize the unpleasant consequences of the aging process and allows one to lead a more productive and healthy life.

Dr. Colin Jairam is the CEO/ CMO of Hybrid MD in San Clemente, a practice that combines the medical specialties of urgent care, laser and aesthetic medicine as well as age management medicine under one roof. For more information about Dr. Jairam and his practice, visit www.hybridmdoc.com or call 949.429.1919.

LET’S GET PHYSICAL PILATES Monday, Friday at Dorothy Visser Senior Center; 9 a.m. Fitness classes aimed at improving your flexibility, posture and abdominal strength as well as reducing joint, back and neck pains.

SIT N FIT CHAIR Monday, Wednesday and Friday at San Juan Community Center; 10:15 a.m. In this lowimpact, video class you’ll work to stretch and tone all areas of the body. Free.

STRETCH AND TONE Monday, Wednesday and Friday at San Juan Community Center; 8:30 a.m. Focus on stretching and toning various muscle groups. The class is free and ongoing.

YOGA Tuesday, Thursday at Dorothy Visser Senior Center; 9 a.m. Reconnect and center your mind, body and spirit during these hourlong, gentle-yoga, fitness classes.

GAMES AREN’T JUST FOR KIDS BINGO Wednesday at Dorothy Visser Senior Center; 1 p.m.–3 p.m. Go for the jackpot each week.

BINGO Monday through Friday at Dana Point Community Center; 12:15 p.m. Games hosted each day after hot lunch service.

CARD GAMES Daily at San Juan Community Center; 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Try your hand at Bridge, Canasta, Rummy, Pinochle, Mahjong and others. Call 949.443-6358 or stop by to see what game is being played.

HULA CLASS Tuesdays at Old Fire Station Complex, 31421 La Matanza; 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m. Beginner and intermediate students can learn to dance “awana style” modern hula. Class is free.

KNOWLEDGE AT EVERY AGE ESTATE PLANNING Second Tuesday at San Juan Community Center; 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Private half-hour legal, estate planning and trust services are offered by Attorney Judith Jamroz.

LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP/ BOOK CLUB Second Thursday at San Juan Community Center; 10 a.m.–noon. Hosted by the Braille Institute of Orange County. Call 714.821.5000 for more information.

WILL COUNSELING Third Wednesday at Dorothy Visser Senior Center. Meet with an advisor on will planning by appointment. Call 949.498.3322 to schedule.

LAUGH, SHARE AND EAT DANA POINT Meals are served weekdays at 11:45 a.m. at the community/senior center. Meals include beverage, dessert and good fellowship. $4.50 donation recommended.

Call 949.496.4252 for menu.

SAN CLEMENTE Share a meal with friends at the senior center Monday through Friday. Lunch is served at 11:45 a.m. $4.50 suggested donation. 949.498.3322 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Lunch is served Monday through Friday at the community center. $4 suggested donation. Reservations are required two days in advance. Call 949.493.5921. *Free transportation to all city lunches available on request.

A NEW YOU

Diabetes and Your Vision

Your eyes say it all: Severity of disease can be seen through eye damage

By Dr. Brian T. Kim, Harvard Eye Associates

“WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT FOR ME AS A DIABETIC TO CONTROL MY SUGARS? I FEEL PERFECTLY FINE!” This is a common sentiment I hear from patients. As an ophthalmologist and retina specialist, I treat many diabetics in my practice.

It is widely understood that diabetics have more health problems overall affecting the heart, nerves, skin, feet and eyes.

Diabetes is a blood sugar disorder but it is better thought of as a problem of blood vessels. It is better conceptualized as sugar crystals traveling through the blood stream puncturing and damaging blood vessels.

The only place in the body we can see microscopic vascular damage is in the eyes and from them we can often gauge the severity of damage in other organs.

Diabetes manifests as bleeding and vascular leakage in the retina, cataracts, glaucoma, and in the worst cases, loss of the eye itself.

What makes diabetes so dangerous and difficult to manage is that symptoms often do not occur until the most advanced stages when irreparable damage has already occurred.

Though diabetes is often diagnosed in middle age, we are currently facing an epidemic of childhood obesity and juvenille diabetes. Sadly, this means a growing population of young adults are now suffering from vision impairment and blindness than in previous generations. It is no wonder diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide.

To take control of diabetes, you should know your latest hemoglobin A1c results—this provides a three-month report card of your blood sugar control. For most people, an A1c level of less than 7 percent is the goal but you should ask your healthcare provider what your target number is.

It is also important to see your eye doctor for a diabetic eye evaluation at the time you are diagnosed with diabetes and at least annually thereafter. Dietary and lifestyle changes are the mainstay treatment of diabetes so if you need help, your physician can have you meet with a diabetic educator.

Taking a proactive approach to controlling your blood sugars, cholesterol and blood pressure can prevent many diabetes-related health problems.

Dr. Brian T. Kim is a retina and cataract expert with Harvard Eye Associates who specializes in treating retinal and macular diseases. Dr. Kim welcomes questions at briankim@harvardeye.com. Find out more by visiting www.harvardeye.com or calling 949.493.5411.

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A NEW YOU

FITNESS SPOTLIGHT I HEART YOGA

FITNESS SPOTLIGHT CROSSFIT NO BOUNDARIES No Boundaries may be in the name but coaches know when to scale workouts, when to push further and when CrossFitters are finished. The ultimate goal here is to show people how to develop themselves. From professional athletes to birth-recovering moms, CrossFit No Boundaries coaches can tailor their WODs (Workouts of the Day) to fit each individual’s needs. Encouragement is at the core of these workouts, whether it is coming from coaches or other drenched-insweat WOD mates.

33208 Paseo Cerveza, Suite A1, San Juan Capistrano 949.229.8049, www.crossfitnoboundaries.com

I Heart Yoga in the Park.

Photo: Courtesy

Rain or shine, board or brew, I Heart Yoga meets daily at 10 a.m. It’s an out-in-the-elements class that sees all ages and skill levels “Ommm” together. No membership required, just a commitment to your practice and a suggested $8 donation to keep daily classes running. These teachers, and yogis, love yoga anytime, anywhere. From the harbor on stand-up paddleboards and the beaches of Rosarito, Mexico to the tasting room of Left Coast Brewing Co. they meet. Yes, that’s right. First a bend, then a brew every Sunday at 11:30 a.m. or Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point, www.iheartyoga.org

Squash the excuse. Try this out: Schedule time to excercise for one day— even if it is only 10 minutes—then stick to it.

A NEW YOU

Keeping Your Wits About Diet, exercise and lifestyle choices to help you stay sharp at any age

By Andrea Papagianis

WEIGHING IN AT JUST 3 POUNDS, THE BRAIN IS THE BODY’S MOST POWERFUL ORGAN. Here’s the brain breakdown.

The cerebrum, which takes up a majority of the skull, is involved with memories, thoughts, problem solving, feelings and movements. Next up: the cerebellum is tasked with controlling coordination and balance. Last, but not least, the brain stem connects to the spinal cord and controls the body’s automatic functions such as breathing, digestion, heart rate and blood pressure.

It’s the body’s mission control—a central aspect to its wellbeing.

Embracing a healthy habit-heavy lifestyle packed with exercise, a nutritious diet and both cognitive and socially-stimulating activities can have a positive impact on a person’s entire body—brain included.

At least that’s what some researchers believe. A two-year clinical trial of elderly adults at risk for cognitive impairment

in Finland showed positive signs that a recipe of physical activity, nutrition, social activities, cognitive exercise and heart health management slowed cognitive decline.

While some brain conditions, like Alzheimer’s disease, may not be prevented, cured or slowed, there are things that can be done to keep the brain healthy as you age. The Brain Foundation and Alzheimer’s Association have a few recommend actions to help protect and keep your brain running on all cylinders.

Stay physically active.

Make time to exercise. Set your priorities and keep them. Participating in regular exercise can reduce stress, depression and cardiovascular health risk factors. Create your own exercise opportunities—take the stairs, park farther away and schedule in walks.

Take part in mentally stimulating activities.

The brain needs exercise too. Play games like bridge and chess that involve memory and foreshadowing. Turn off the television and opt instead for mind games or a book.

Take up a new hobby such as quilting, photography, learning a new language, computer skills or musical instrument.

Reduce stress and depression.

Anxiety increases your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to stroke.

One of the body’s toughest stresses is depression. Take time to yourself and find time to meditate. Actively relax— tense up then relax muscle groups—and exercise. Get some rest and sleep well.

Consume a healthy diet.

Nourish your brain with a wellbalanced, low-cholesterol, lowsaturated fat diet. Don’t skip out on breakfast. Order the fish. It combines protein and unsaturated fats—both of which are vital to brain development. Keep in mind: Good nutrition is good for the body and also the brain.

Wear a helmet and seatbelt.

Make safety a priority. Put on a helmet when riding a bike, snowboard, motorcycle, skateboard and other modes of transit to prevent brain injury if you fall or get into an accident. Buckle up. Always wear a seatbelt when driving or riding in a car. Treat any head injury seriously.

A NEW YOU

Take Time for You

Life is demanding. Work, school, dinner, games, grocery shopping, laundry: The list seemingly goes on and on. Where is the time for you? You know, the personal time for that long-put-off eye doctor’s visit, the trip to the gym that plays second fiddle or the simple hour of relaxation. Now is the time to focus on you. Make your health and wellness a priority.

Align Pilates Center Align Pilates Center is an award-winning pilates and yoga studio nestled in the historical heart of San Juan Capistrano. Align is a fully-equipped studio offering private sessions, group equipment classes as well as yoga and pilates mat classes. APC is proud of its world-renowned training, detailed instruction and excellent customer satisfaction.

The guiding principle at APC is that “quality of movement equals quality of life.”

Come in and experience the quality today.

26850 Ortega Highway, Suite K, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.3577, www.alignpilatescenter.com.

City of San Clemente Health happens in the city of San Clemente when you participate in summer recreation and enjoy the health benefits of city classes, camps and events. From toddlers to seniors, there is something for everyone from surfing to swimming, camps to adult leagues, as well as an abundance of amenities from beaches to pools and trails to parks.

Select your summer adventure and make health happen in your life by registering online or visiting a center today. 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8264 or 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, 949.429.8797, www.san-clemente.org/recreation.

C’Siren Day Spa C’Siren is local, family operated day spa.

Owner Torri Crider, LHHP and team members—Kakae Culbertson L.E., Gena Celli L.M.T. and Elise Hendrickson L.M.T.—are dedicated to your health, wellness and beauty. We use certified organic seaweed products from Seaflora and natural M’lis products in our skincare, therapeutic body treatments, detoxifying programs and natural supplements. Call us for more information about our facials, massages,

detoxifying and contouring body wraps, waxing and infrared sauna. 312 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente, 949.498.7700, www.csirendayspa.com.

Desa Prana Pilates & Barre

an elite group of periodontists—only 25 percent nationwide—who offer Periolase as an alternative to traditional osseous surgery. 1001 Avenida Pico,Suite K, San Clemente 949.361.4867(GUMS), www.moranperio.com.

best. Call us today about our complimentary age management consultation. 1031 Avenida Pico, Suite 103, San Clemente, 949.429.1919, www.hybridmdoc.com.

Melrose in the OC

Fitness 19 In ancient Sanskrit, Desa means place or space; Prana means vital energy, life force, breath. Using different modalities, Desa Prana offers a customized approach to wellbeing that can be tailored to any age or fitness level. Desa Prana offers state-of-the-art pilates equipment for reformer and tower sessions, TRX, barre and an exciting yoga program that includes classes and workshops in restorative, power, partner and Ariel yoga. 34700 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 205-208, Capistrano Beach, 949.443.1700, www.desaprana.com

Diana Craft D.D.S. At Dr. Craft’s dental office, we focus on you.

Dr. Craft designs treatment plans based on your individual dental needs and aesthetic desires. We provide comprehensive care for the whole family from cleanings and extractions, to tooth colored fillings and porcelain crowns. Dr. Craft’s gentle manner will put you at ease, so call us today to get started on the road to a beautiful, healthy smile. 1161 Puerta Del Sol, Suite 100, San Clemente, 949.218.0433, www.dianacraftdental.com.

Dr. Alice P. Moran

At Fitness 19 we have more than 10 years of experience serving and motivating the beautiful San Clemente area. Our clean, well-maintained facility was completely remodeled less than a year ago. In addition, we have month-to-month memberships starting at just $9 per month, so there is easily no one in the area who can beat our prices. We would like to invite you down to our state-of-the-art facility and let one of our amazing staff members show you around your new fitness center. 93 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente, 949.369.1999, www.fitness19.com.

Harvard Eye Associates

Harvard Eye Associates has been proudly serving Orange County for more than 40 years, bringing patients advanced treatments and procedures in general, medical, and surgical eye care. Our services also include facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, BOTOX® Cosmetic, dermal fillers, laser skin rejuvenation and a Hearing Aid Center. 24401 Calle de la Louisa, Suite 300, Laguna Hills; 665 Camino de los Mares, Suite 102, San Clemente, 949.951.2020, www.harvardeye.com.

Hybrid MD

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD, is a board-certified periodontist who provides comprehensive, leading-edge periodontal care to preserve smiles. Dr. Moran’s capabilities include dental-implant surgery, immediate implant placement including “all on four” or “teeth in a day,” aesthetic-gum enhancement, pinhole gum rejuvenation and treatment of gum disease. She belongs to

At Hybrid MD, we always focus on healthy living and well-being.

Dr. Colin Jairam is one of a few age management physicians in the area who focuses on hormone optimization. So whether you need a physical or are interested in getting labs checked, Hybrid MD is committed to keeping you functioning at your

Check us out and shop Melrose in the OC where items are always new, trends are hot and prices are cool. Melrose in the OC attracts many customers time and time again because of its great selection of women’s and girl’s fashion, jewelry, notable customer service and prices for today’s economy. 144 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.0561, www.melroseintheoc.com.

O Dental - Dr Carla Bryan & Dr Anmar Obaidi We’ve been providing dentistry of the highest quality in San Clemente for nearly 30 years.

Please join Dr. Bryan and the team in welcoming Dr. Obaidi to our practice. With more than 45 years combined experience, our doctors look forward to taking care of all of your dental needs. We are now accepting new patients. We welcome everyone including families, nervous patients, seniors and veterans.657 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 138, San Clemente, 949.487.6780.

OC Pharmacy

Like family treats family, OC Pharmacy ensures you receive the highest quality medications, over-the-counter drugs, compounding solutions, hormone replacement therapy, vaccinations and immunizations.

Our pharmacists are best known for their expertise in compounding—the art and science of preparing, mixing, assembling and packaging of individualized medications. For your specialized medications, we use pure-ingredient chemicals and raw materials to blend a customized drug exclusively prescribed for your body by your physician. 31654 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite N, San Juan Capistrano, 949.429.5326, www.ocpharmacy.net.

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A NEW YOU Sea View Pharmacy

Orange County Physicians’ Hearing Services Our vision is to provide superior quality, personal and compassionate hearing care for patients that will improve their overall hearing and health.

Based upon individual needs, we provide a comprehensive array of services related to prevention, evaluation and rehabilitation of hearing impairment for all ages. Our friendly staff and doctors of audiology provide the best hearing care services, hearing loss treatment and hearing aids. Five locations to serve you: Mission Viejo, Laguna Hills, San Clemente, Laguna Beach and Irvine. 949.276.4040, www.physicianshearingservices.com.

Orange County Plastic Surgery Orange County Plastic Surgery

By offering a caring and comfortable environment, and combining it with the very latest advances in cosmetic surgery of the face and body, we believe we have created one of the finest cosmetic surgery facilities in all of Southern California. Services include facial rejuvenation utilizing the latest mid-face and endoscopic brow lifting techniques, microfat grafting and lasers, as well as eyelid and nasal surgery. 4501 Birch Street, Newport Beach, 949.888.9700, www.orangecountyplasticsurgery.com.

Paul Reischl, DDS

This year, we celebrate 28 years in San Clemente. With our dental work experience we provide each and every patient with quality preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental treatments. Our staff has worked together for many years to ensure you a positive and friendly atmosphere that will make you feel welcome when you enter our doors. We strive to provide the best dental care in the most gentle and efficient way possible. 657 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 245, San Clemente, 949.492.0166, www.reischldentistry.com.

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Sea View Pharmacy is an independent, family-owned, full-service, retail pharmacy located in San Clemente. Here at Sea View, we provide accredited pharmaceutical compounding for the personal health needs of patients and their pets. Pharmacists are also clinically trained to administer a variety of immunizations and we offer a wide range of medical equipment products. Our customer service is fast, friendly and here to meet your individual health needs. We deliver. 665 Camino De Los Mares, Suite #101, San Clemente, 949.496.0123, www.seaviewpharmacy.com

Shine Bodyworks

In developing Shine Bodyworks services and offerings, we have created a unique combination of traditional American and Eastern inspired massage modalities, breakthrough scientific therapies and modern healing devices. Suzanne and Alfredo provide a welcoming atmosphere and work with you to address your issues.

They educate you about how Shine’s unique philosophies, treatments and technologies work together to achieve overall balance and holistic health. Call or visit our website to learn more. 380 Camino De Estrella, San Clemente, 949.916.1419, www.shinebodyworks.com.

West Dermatology

In 2002, West Dermatology merged with Las Vegas Skin & Cancer Clinics to create a network serving millions in Arizona, California and Nevada. Our team members integrate cutting-edge, evidence-based medical science with our company mission to provide patients with quality healthcare in a professional, compassionate environment. West Dermatology is an established, elite company with innovative, compassionate providers. Your overall health and wellness is our complete goal and your skin is our primary focus.

1300 Avenida Vista Hermosa, Suite 240, San Clemente, 949.489.4290; 22032 El Paseo, Suite 220, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.888.5448, www.westdermatology.com.

Whole Healing: Treating the Mind, Body and Spirit Ancient medicinal techniques are proven to cure illness, promote overall well-being

By Mia Chou L.Ac, Pacific Acupuncture Center

Over the past 3,000 years, traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture has evolved into a complete healing system that includes the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of conditions. With its amazing benefits for the mind, body and spirit, acupuncture has becoming popular worldwide.

Did you know that acupuncture is more than just needles? Combined with ancient Chinese medicine, newly-developed science and various techniques, acupuncture can provide the most effective treatments for arthritis, chronic fatigue, migraines, sleep troubles and more. It also promotes and overall well being.

Good health comes from achieving balance and proper flow of qi, or energy.

It animates the body and protects us from illness, pain and even disease. This balance can be reached through acupuncture treatments—a healing method that consists of needling selected meridians points with pin-like needles.

This technique—coupled with an overall health investigation that gets to the root of a patient’s issues and takes calculations of factors such as lifestyle, emotions and family history—has many centuries’ worth of proven success. That is why acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health and World Health Organization for variety of conditions such as anxiety, pain, immunity and fertility, among others.

Other ancient and time-honored, Chinese medical practices can also be invoked to ensure acupuncture treatments have the utmost impact. Depending on the individual’s condition, the massage technique Tui-Na can be added to acupuncture in order to relieve muscle pain,

tension and inflammation. Gua-Sha, a skin scraping treatment that may produce slight bruising, is another ancient form used. In this method, practitioners use a specialized tool to gently scrape the skin over a problem area to increase blood flow and release muscle tension, tightness and constriction.

A further therapy that stimulates blood flow and balances qi is cupping. With cupping, a vacuum is created over the area being treated using heat. I think of it as a reverse, deep tissue as your muscle is pulled into the cup by suction. The technique is great for muscle tension, pain and the common cold.

Herbal remedies are also recommended for different conditions. There are more than 3,000 herbs that can be used for medical purposes. To create the most effective healing formula, herbs with different quantities are customized for diverse purposes and individual needs. Herbs have proven effective in fighting bacteria and viruses, helping injuries recover faster, healing chronic illness, promoting blood circulation, as well as strengthening and regulating the body for recovery.

Raised in a traditional Chinese medicine environment, Mia Chou L.Ac, of Pacific Acupuncture Center, realized her calling at a young age. Her passion for ancient medicine, compassion for patients and dedication to their healing has defined not only her career but also who she is. Learn more by visiting www.pacificacupuncture.com or calling 949.489.1911.

A NEW YOU

Health, Happiness Start at Home

Five steps toward becoming a more mindful family

By Susan Parmelee, Western Youth Services

IT IS IMPORTANT TO SLOW DOWN AND TAKE TIME TO ENJOY THE SPECIAL RELATIONSHIPS IN YOUR LIFE. Small, meaningful changes can greatly benefit the mental and physical health of all members in your family.

Here are a few ideas to help your family relieve stress, relax and reconnect with one another.

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Enjoy spontaneous moments.

Some of my family’s best memories happened by accident. Slow down and take advantage of happenstance. From toddlers to teens, your kids often have spur-of-the-moment ideas and it is worth following their lead. An hour watching construction equipment with your 3-year-old or letting dinner with your teen be a pile of nachos, can be outings that you will all treasure.

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Start and maintain traditions.

Begin a monthly neighborhood outdoor game night, teach the kids to make Sunday pancake breakfast or host full-moon beach barbecues with family and friends. Keeping up with the traditions can be important to your family and these customs

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are often handed down to the next generation.

Take personal time.

Some days we just need to slow down. Give yourself, and your family members permission to take a break if you or they seem overwhelmed.

Know when to stop a heated conversation or argument. Value your relationships and each other’s health.

Schedule screen-free time.

Challenge the family to be totally unplugged for a few hours or while on an entire vacation. We all need time to disconnect from the

FITNESS SPOTLIGHT FOUNDATION FITNESS

Page 14

Explore new things.

Pick one day a month when you try a new ethnic cuisine, cook together with your family, visit a new restaurant, try a family yoga class, seek out a new hiking trail, sign up for art lessons, or maybe even learn how to meditate. Novelty engages new parts of our neural circuitry and encourages the firing of endorphins

that create happier moods.

Finally, none of these are imperatives.

Just slow down and give it a try. You, and your family, will be thankful for it.

Susan Parmelee is a social worker who works at San Clemente High School in the Wellness & Prevention Center and at Western Youth Services. She is a regular contributor to the San Clemente Times and sends out weekly wellness and prevention emails. To subscribe, send an email “subscribe” in the subject line to tritons41@gmail.com.

“Keep your fitness routine fun! We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”

Remember that feeling of pure elation in your school day when pencils went down, lessons paused and recess was in full session? Well, it isn’t lost. At Foundation Fitness, the days of mini basketball, hula hoop relays and freeze tag are in full swing with Adult PE classes. “It’s the raddest thing in the world to watch people revert back to childhood,” said owner and founder Ryan Steinhoff. It’s self-driven, interval training blended with the fun of days gone by. A community fitness class like no other.

232 Avenida Fabricante, Suite 106, San Clemente 949.478.9264, www.foundationfitsc.com

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stressors in our lives. As adults, we often fantasize about the ability to completely escape from our phone and email. Youth often do not know how healthy it can be to disconnect from outside stimuli and the stress of online communications.

Foundation Fitness.

Photo: Courtesy

—Ryan Steinhoff, Foundation Fitness

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

At the Movies: ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ is a Blast

EDITOR’S PICK

What’s going on in and around town

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 22

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

SWING SHIFT 7:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn. com.

Saturday | 23 ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR 10 a.m. A guided tour of San Juan Capistrano’s historic adobes, Spanish-era dwellings and modern buildings. Occurs every Saturday. Meet at the train depot on Verdugo Street. $5 donation benefits the SJC Friends of the Library. For more information, call 949.489.0736 or visit www.sjcfol.org.

Sunday | 24 KSBR BIRTHDAY BASH JAZZ FESTIVAL 3:30 p.m. Saddleback College Radio Station KSBR (88.5 FM) presents the KSBR Birthday Bash Jazz Festival on the Village Green of Oso Viejo Park in Mission Viejo, featuring Grammy Award-winner Ray Parker Jr. and more than 40 other distinguished musicians. Gates open at 3:30 p.m. Taste of the Bash runs from 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m. Military Appreciation Festivities are at 4:30 p.m. and music begins at 5 p.m. $55 in advance, $60 at the door.

Tickets can be purchased at www.ksbr. org, in person at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, or by calling the Saddleback College Fine Arts Ticket Office at 949.582.4656. Oso Viejo Park, 24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

Monday | 25 DANA POINT MEMORIAL DAY EVENT 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The Dana Point Veterans of War Post 9934 presents the annual Memorial Day Event held at Pines Park in Capistrano Beach. The memorial honors the fallen veterans of all wars and includes a Marine Corps traditional empty boots ceremony. 34941 Camino Capistrano, Capistrano Beach, 949.248.7696, www.danapoint.org.

SWALLOW’S INN MEMORIAL DAY BBQ 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Live music by Family Style at The Capistrano Dispatch May 22-June 11, 2015

Vintage contest boards from a past Cosmic Creek event. Photo: Courtesy M. Levy

COSMIC CREEK SURF COMPETITION • SATURDAY, MAY 30 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Cosmic Creek, a retro surf contest featuring local shapers, vintage surfboards from the 1970s and ’80s and live music, will take place Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. The boards being ridden by competitors are chosen by luck-of-the-draw. The 14th annual surf festival hearkens back to the alternative, more experimental time of the ’70s, where surfboards ruled the shops, shapers were gurus and surfing had a mystical soul about it. Presented by Vissla, the event includes a free concert Saturday, hosted by D’Blanc on the bluff, featuring live music by FROTH and Tropical Popsicle. Music on the beach will be played both days by Reverberation Radio DJs, and local vendors will provide refreshments. Signups are being taken at Killer Dana Surf Shop, 24621 Del Prado Avenue in Dana Point. For more information, visit www.vissla.com/blog/vissla-cosmic-creek/#.

The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

Tuesday | 26 KNITLIT BOOK CLUB/DISCUSSION 6 p.m.-7 p.m. The KnitLit Knitting Book Group meets at the SJC Library the last Tuesday of each month to work on knitting or other projects and have a lively discussion of the club’s latest book. Copies of the book will be available for checkout from the library following the meeting.

31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

Wednesday | 27 ORANGE COUNTY LIBRARY WORKSHOP FOR SENIORS 10 a.m.-12 p.m. The library has a great selection of books, audio books and magazines that can be easily downloaded to your smart phone, e-reader or tablet for free—all you need is an Orange County Library card along with your pin number.

Come to the San Juan Capistrano Community Center and let local librarians and

docents get you started. Two sessions are available from 10 a.m. to noon and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Don’t forget your library card, library pin number, iPad, e-reader or smart phone passwords, and make sure your device is fully charged. If you don’t have a library card, you can obtain one at your local library. For more information or to register, call 949.493.5911. San Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano, www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

Thursday | 28 READ TO A DOG 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Kids can read to licensed therapy dogs every other Thursday. Studies have shown that reading to therapy dogs can improve children’s reading skills and self-confidence. Sign up at the information desk at the San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, or call 949.493.1752 to reserve a spot, www.ocpl. org/libloc/sjc.

SINGLES 50+ MEET AND GREET 5 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Singles over 50 are invited to attend this free event held the last Thursday of each month. Carl the DJ will

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nly a week into release, and already movie fans and critics are calling Mad Max: Fury Road not only one of the best blockbusters of the year, but of the last decade. George Miller’s iconic action hero back on the big screen is a surprise to movie fans for two reasons—first, because it’s been 30 years since Beyond Thunderdome, and, secondly, because Mel Gibson is nowhere to be seen in Fury Road. Instead, Miller recasts Tom Hardy as Max and recruits Charlize Theron as a new heroine to the series.

In a post-apocalyptic desert world where gasoline and water is scarce, Max Rockatansky (Hardy) is captured and bound by a group of “war boys” working for the tyrannical Immortan Joe (Hugh KeaysPhoto: Courtesy Byrne).

At the same time, driver Imperator Furiosa (Theron) rebels against Joe’s small community to rescue five young “breeders” Joe has locked up for mating purposes. When Max escapes with the deranged war boy Nux (Nicholas Hoult), they team up with Furiosa to save the oil and girls from Joe’s army.

Zoe Kravitz and Riley Keough appear as breeders. At age 70, Miller is not only a master at creating action sequences, but also of quality storytelling.

Fury Road is a non-stop, two-hour spectacle of flashy car chases, explosions, quick editing, an energetic score and likeable, memorable characters. Hardy is a fine new portrayal of Max and Theron’s Furiosa is the best kick-butt woman on film since Uma Thurman’s Bride of Kill Bill franchise. Fury Road will leave action genre and Mad Max fans blown away. CD

be spinning the tunes. Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy #116, Dana Point, 949.248.9008, www.tutorandspunkys.com. (Cont. on page 12) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 11)

Saturday | 30 DANA POINT SYMPHONY: MUSIC OF FRANCE 7 p.m. The Dana Point Symphony Orchestra continues its 2015 “One World” season with conductor Dean Anderson and featuring Yang Bartolotti on violin. Program includes Ravel, Bolero; Ravel, Tzigane; Debussy, La Mer. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students, seniors and military. Buy tickets online or at the door on a first come, first served basis. St. Edward’s Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point, www.danapointsymphony.com.

Sunday | 31 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY 9 a.m. San Juan Capistrano’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Serra Post 3801 hosts its annual Memorial Day ceremony in honor of fallen veterans at the Old Mission Cemetery. The traditional ceremony includes a speech by VFW Commander Art Hasslebrink. The cemetery is located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Rancho Mission Viejo Road. Call 949.248.9468.

MIKE HAMILTON Noon-4 p.m & 5 p.m. to close. Enjoy live music at Mission Grill each Sunday with guitarist, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Mike Hamilton. 31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.8055, www.mikehamiltonmusic.com.

Monday | 01 COUNTRY DANCIN’ WITH PATRICK AND FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Every Monday at The Swallow’s Inn with steak night and happy hour prices. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188.

Tuesday | 02 PRESCHOOL STORYTIME 11:15 a.m.-Noon. Join the San Juan Capistrano Library for stories, songs and crafts for children ages 3 to 6 and their caregivers. No registration is required. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

Thursday | 04 SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS 8 p.m. UC Irvine’s Claire Trevor School of the Arts Department of Drama presents Sweet Smell of Success, a musical about the unscrupulous JJ Hunsecker and the sleazy, driven press agent Sidney Falco who join forces to bring the day’s showbiz The Capistrano Dispatch May 22-June 11, 2015

gossip and celebrity scandals to the hungry public via The New York Globe. The Hunsecker character is based on the late Walter Winchell, the powerful and highest paid newspaper gossip columnist of his time. Show also runs June 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. Tickets $11 to $20. Parking is $10-$15 per vehicle. UCI, Claire Trevor Theater, 4000 Mesa Road, Irvine, 949.824.2787, www.arts.uci.edu/tickets.

Friday | 05

Xavier Rudd and The United Nations Come to The Coach House

BY EVAN DA SILVA, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7 p.m.-9 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library presents MacFarland USA, a film about a cross country coach in a small California town who transforms a team of athletes into championship contenders. $2 donation supports the library. Free for members. La Sala Auditorium at the San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www. sjcfol.org.

WATERLOGGED WEDNESDAYS MOVIE NIGHT MOVED TO FRIDAY Sundown. Hobie Surf Shop presents one Bruce Brown film per month through June 2015. Tonight’s movie is On Any Sunday (1971). Free. 34174 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.496.2366.

HARBOR MUSIC CRUISE: DERICK AND THE DAYTIME DRINKERS 8 p.m. Enjoy live music aboard the 95-foot vessel Dana Pride while cruising the Dana Point Harbor and watching the sunset.

Boat features a full bar. Occurs each Saturday through Oct. 17. Must be 21 or over, with proper ID. $19. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Saturday | 06 FAMILY FILM FEATURE 10 a.m.-noon. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library presents a familyfriendly matinee. Free admission and popcorn. La Sala Auditorium at the San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.sjcfol.org.

DJ AND DANCING 9:30 p.m. Dance the night away as the DJ spins the tunes every Friday and Saturday night. The Point Restaurant, 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Sunday | 07 SERRA CHAPEL TOUR 11:15 a.m. In honor of Father Serra’s 300th birthday celebration, tour the Serra Chapel, the oldest operating church in California. Tours are every Sunday. Admission $2-$3. Price is in addition to museum

A

ustralian solo artist Xavier Rudd and his band The United Nations will be performing at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, May 31, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and the show beginning at 7 p.m.

The stop will be part of the group’s 2015 touring schedule celebrating the release of their first collaborative album, Nanna.

Rudd entered the music scene with his 2002 debut album, To Let, which introduced mixing of traditional guitars, percussion and blues with instruments native to Australia, such as the didgeridoo. His sophomore album Solace debuted in the Top-20 of the Australian Record Industry Awards music charts and eventually went platinum.

After an equally successful third release, again awarding him with attention from the ARIA and placement on the Dutch music charts, Rudd found his first

Xavier Rudd. Photo: Courtesy of The Coach House

taste of success in the United States with his fourth studio production, White Moth, released in 2007. The album released

by Epitaph’s sister label, ANTI-, would reach No. 30 on the U.S. Billboard charts.

A string of continued successes would follow, with Rudd reaching No. 5 on the ARIA charts in 2008 with Dark Shades of Blue, and No. 2 in 2012 with Spirit Bird.

Shifting gears from his usual solo act, Nanna is Rudd’s and The United Nations’ first production together. The group boasts musicians from all corners of the globe including South Africa, Samoa, Germany, Papua New Guinea and Australia.

The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano. Tickets are $30 and dinner reservations with priority seating are also available. For tickets or more information call 949.496.8930 or log on to www.thecoachhouse.com. CD

admission for non-members. 26801 Ortega Highway, 949.234.1320, www.missionsjc. com/activities/holiday-crafts.php.

$5, free for members. Casa Romantica, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

Monday | 08

Thursday | 11

OPEN PAINTING STUDIO WITH COSTUMED MODELS 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Explore colors, textures, anatomy and more while painting a costumed model. Cost is $15 per class, or purchase a one-month block for $12.50 per class. San Clemente Art Supply, 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com.

GARDEN ANGELS 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Volunteers meet every Thursday in front of the Montanez Adobe at Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano to help maintain the garden and more.

Bring gloves and wear close-toed shoes.

949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.

Tuesday | 09 VETERANS’ ASSISTANCE 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. The Dana Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 provides free veterans’ assistance on the second Tuesday of every month at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo, 949.275.3142, www.vfwpost9934.org.

Wednesday | 10 CASA WELLNESS WEDNESDAY: YOGA 9 a.m. Practice multiple yoga traditions.

Bring your own mat. Class is for beginners to seasoned practitioners. Admission

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YAPPY HOUR 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Follow Fido to happy hour at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel for this monthly cocktail party. Four-legged friends can enjoy complimentary biscuits while lapping up chicken, cheese, beef and bacon flavored water. Their human counterparts can purchase burgers, brews and wine. Funds raised in the 2015 Yappy Hour season will help support Canine Companions for Independence which provides service dogs to the disabled and the nation’s veterans. Event also runs on July 9, Aug. 13 and Sept. 10. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point, www.ritz-carlton.com.

For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

Have an event? Send your listing to events@thecapistranodispatch.com

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Four Kids and a Dog by Elizabeth Bottiaux

Quick. Silent. Deadly.

Swimming lessons a must for drowning prevention

I

sat on the lounge chair by the pool, a mere five paces from where my youngest was perched on the steps leading into the swimming pool. All four of my kids were in the water. But my eyes were glued to Nathan, my only non-swimmer.

The water thing has been a very recent major breakthrough for Nathan. Besides the bathtub, garden hose and backyard water table, he’d never enjoyed the water.

He’d always preferred to merely dip a toe in the water on the steps, while all his siblings swam like fish throughout the pool.

I had put off swimming lessons every summer because of his strong aversion to all things FOUR KIDS swimming-related. I just AND A DOG

By Elizabeth didn’t have the fight in Bottiaux me to force him into the pool to learn to swim—until last month.

I’d avoided it for four summers, but this had to be the year. Like it or not, he was going to learn to swim. Becoming watersafe was the main reason he had to learn to swim. Living in Southern California, we are constantly in or near the water. It’s a way of life. We live seven minutes from the Pacific Ocean and two minutes from our

closest community pool.

On the first day of class—at the San Clemente Aquatic Center—he cried for hours before it was time to head to the lesson. I had to peel him off of my body, unclamp his hands from my T-shirt and hand him over to his new swim teacher. I could tell by the way his tiny chin quivered when he asked me “why,” that he felt that I’d betrayed him.

Soon enough, I began seeing hints of happiness creeping across his face. Little laughs here and there. He even floated on his back one day—unassisted. He’d climb out of that pool, at the end of the lesson and his little green eyes would flicker with delight. I was so proud. He was so proud! It was happening. His fear was slipping away.

I sat there, warmed by the May sunshine, clapping and flashing the thumbs up for his small accomplishments. I watched him on those steps that day, squealing with excitement each time he plunked his head under, knowing this summer would be different. I’d have to really watch him closely in the pool and ocean this year. He was no longer terrorized by water.

On a family outing at our community pool I must’ve looked away. Maybe I’d glanced around the pool for my other kids.

But, when my eyes returned to Nathan, I saw only his two hands wildly flailing.

He had gone under. I bolted over to the steps—in what felt like slow motion— threw myself into the water and yanked him up by his hand. He sputtered water, gasped for air and was shaking with genuine fear.

My heart refused to slow. It remained beating wildly out of my chest. I’d been so careful, so aware. Yet, this had happened.

I’m guessing it took me eight seconds total to realize what had happened, jump up and get over to save him. What if? What if...

Initially, Nathan wanted out of that water. I envisioned all of that hard work to overcome his fear of swimming, reversing itself. We sat on the lounge chair together.

I held my little burrito, wrapped tightly in a beach towel. I hugged and kissed him.

I reminded him of a promise I’d made to him when he began swim lessons. I’d promised him that I would always jump in the water, even if I was fully dressed, to save him if he started drowning.

It’s preventable. I’m hoping to have all four of my kids water safe by summer.

Nathan’s improving with each lesson. So, sign ‘em up. Even if they scream, kick and complain. Sign ‘em up. The sooner, the better. I was weak, and waited. But it

could’ve ended up costing my child his life.

May is National Drowning Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the No. 1 cause of death in children ages 1 to 4. Drowning can be quick, quiet and can happen anywhere. Bathtubs, pools, buckets and even toilets are common places young children to drown. Sadly, most drownings happen at home, in backyard swimming pools. The Orange County Fire Authority offers drowning prevention information and advice on what to do if you find a child in a pool, on the OCFA website at www.ocfa.org. For information on swim classes at the San Clemente Aquatic Center, call 949.429.8797 or visit www. san-clemente.org/recreation-community/ classes-program.

Elizabeth Bottiaux is mom to four small humans, ages 4, 6, 8 and 10. She’s a San Clemente resident and has lived in Orange County for the past 16 years. She publishes a blog, www.fourkidsandadog.com, about family life in our tri-city area. 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 Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

Pets of the Week: Zuri Pet Spa Foster Pups Need Good Homes Find a faithful companion in one of these top dogs at Zuri Pet Spa and Resort in San Juan Capistrano

F

ine canines are in no short supply this week as we highlight The Zuri Pet Spa & Resort’s wonderful bunch of four-legged friends. There’s Rocky, a 5-year-old poodle mix; Trooper, a 1-year-old Yorkshire terrier mix; Petunia, a 1-year-old poodle mix; Shaggy, a 1-year-old havanese breed; Zoe, a 1-year-old terrier mix; Bean, a 1-year-old dachshund mix; and Diva, a 1-year-old lhasa apso mix. Each one of these unique pooches has something special to offer and they would love a new home.

Founded four years ago, The Zuri Pet Spa & Resort has been dedicated to rescuing animals with the goal of finding them a happy home.

Owner Jennifer Harris said Zuri’s pets have been recovered and rejuvenated with great care, and are ready for both a fresh start and the bright future ahead of them.

If you are interested in meeting one of these loving pups, please call The Zuri Pet Rescue at 949.429.7222, or stop by The Zuri Pet Spa & Resort, 32423 Calle Perfecto in San Juan Capistrano. For more information, visit www.thezuripetspa.com.—Jacob Onofrio

The Capistrano Dispatch May 22–June 11, 2015

ROCKY Page 14

SHAGGY

TROOPER

ZOE

PETUNIA

DIVA

BEAN www.thecapistranodispatch.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT WWW.THECAPISTRANODISPATCH.COM

FOR SALE PILATES REFORMER Black Aero pilates reformer. Folds up for easy storage. Great workout at home. $125. 949.533.9761 QUEEN MATRESS SET - MUST SELL! Like new! Mattress and box spring. $150/OBO Call of text for more info or pictures.

949.633.3860

GARAGE SALES DANA POINT 14TH ANNUAL BIBLEBELT COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE! Saturday, May 30th, 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Dana Crest/Landing Neighborhood (aka “The Biblebelt”), Cross Streets: Golden Lantern/Josiah, follow the signs & shop till you drop! Sponsored by: Gary Macrides, REALTOR, Surterre Properties 949370-6827 BRE # 01267654 GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

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LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 27126 Paseo Espada, Suite 1604, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com

AUTOMOBILE REPAIR

Star Motors

32959 Calle Perfecto, 949.443.1970, www.star-motors.com

BANKING

Independence Bank

32291 Camino Capistrano, Ste. A, 949.373.8963, www.independence-bank.net

ELECTRICIANS

Excel Electric

32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, 949.493.7769, www.excelelectric.com

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

Excel Electric - CA #793860

32238 Paseo Adelanto E-I, 949.493.7769, www.excelelectric.com

JEWELER

Abby’s Fine Jewelry Design

32382 Del Obispo, Ste. C-3, 949.493.3632, www.abbysdesigns.com

PHOTO & DIGITAL LAB

San Juan Photo & Digital

32301 Camino Capistrano, 949.661.5668, www.sjcphotodigital.com

After-Hours Electric

Ca Lic #697355 714.396.2188, 949.573.8386, www.bbb.org The Capistrano Dispatch May 22–June 11, 2015

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100! Write-up of 50 words with logo.

Call Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or e-mail dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

Page 15

PLUMBING

Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com

ROOF MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Bryan Krueger Enterprises, Inc. 33208 Paseo De Cerveza, Ste. B, 949.212.0499

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools 32032 Del Obispo Street, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org

LIST LOCALS ONLY

USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year.

View online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

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SJC LIVING

Learning Lessons by Building Bikes Dozens of children learn how to build bicycles at Homefront America event THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

Mariachi Estrellas de Chula Vista of San Diego won first place in the open category. Photo: Courtesy Mission San Juan Capistrano

Annual Battle of the Mariachis Delights at the Mission THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

M

ission San Juan Capistrano held its 11th Battle of the Mariachis Festival on Saturday, May 9, where nearly 4,000 visitors enjoyed a celebration of talent, interpretation and inspiration of Mariachi music.

The day featured live music performances by mariachi groups from across Southern California and beyond as they competed on stage for cash prizes before a panel of distinguished judges. Festival highlights also included ringing of the historic Mission bells, a special performance of the National Anthem, performances by Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano, bilingual marionette shows and exhibition performances by the local Capistrano Community Mariachi Program.

The Battle of the Mariachis was made possible with support from the Thomas J. and Erma Jean Tracy Family Foundation.

The 12th annual Battle of the Mariachis Festival is set to take place Saturday, May 14, 2016.

THE 2015 WINNERS: First Place Youth Category ($1,500)— Mariachi Juvenil Mestizo, Delano First Place Open Category ($1,500)— Mariachi Estrellas de Chula Vista, San Diego Second Place Youth Category ($1,000)—

Mariachi Corazon de Tucson, Tucson, Ariz.

Second Place Open Category ($1,000)— Mariachi Corazon de Acero, Corona Tom Tracy “Shining Star” Award ($250)—Andres Diaz of Mariachi Corazon de Acero, Corona EJ Tracy “Shining Star” Award ($250)— Angie Villela of Sinfonia Mexicana Mariachi Youth Academy, San Bernardino People’s Choice Award: Top voted Mariachi Group on Facebook—Mariachi Los Santos, Santa Ana Spirit of San Juan Community Award— Mariachi Estrellas de Chula Vista, San Diego. CD

Where’s Tom?

n Saturday, May 16, nearly 50 children ages 7 to 9 received new bikes during the Build-a-Bike program—a joint partnership between Homefront America and Golden States Foundation. The program offers military children the unique opportunity to learn to build their own bikes, and to teach them the value of hard work to achieve goals. It also opens doors for them to learn valuable life lessons including self-reliance, responsibility, risks and rewards, experiencing adventure, building strength, self-confidence and character, in addition to living a healthier lifestyle.

Zoomars Petting Zoo provided the

venue as well as complimentary admission, feed baskets and train rides for the families, and Golden State Foods Foundation provided the bikes, locks and helmets. McDonald’s of San Juan provided lunch for the families and volunteers, and Homefront America was the family outreach arm of the program, providing bike mechanic volunteers to tune up the bikes.

Homefront America co-founder Mamie Yong Maywhort said the event was “truly a community effort.”

“Everyone had a great time,” Yong Maywhort said. “The kids were so proud of themselves. For many of them, this was their first bike.” CD

About 50 children learned how to build bikes during the Build-a-Bike program on May 16. Photos: Courtesy of Homefront America

Tom Blake, author of the twice-monthly column, “On Life and Love After 50” is taking a break from writing this week while traveling in Austria with his life partner Greta Cohn.

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 Follow their advenBy Tom Blake tures on Blake’s travel blog at www.travelafter55.com.

His column will return in June.

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Flashback Friday

Last week’s solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium The Capistrano Dispatch May 22-June 11, 2015

A view of the former San Juan Inn Café.

The date of the photograph is unknown.

Do you have a vintage photograph of an event or place in San Juan Capistrano that

you’d like to see featured in Flashback Friday? Scan your photo and email it with a caption to City Editor Allison Jarrell at ajarrell@thecapistranodispatch.com.

Photo: Courtesy of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society

See today’s solution in next week’s issue.

Page 16

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Scoreboard

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Soccer

The West Coast Futbol Club boys U16 team won the Cal South National Cup Championship in Ventura on May 17, besting a field of 76 teams from throughout the

southland.

The U16 team, which draws players from San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, scored 24 goals while conceding only five over a 10-game stretch. They also had five shutouts.

The team will advance to compete in the Far West Regional Championship tournament in Boise, I.D. June 22-28.

A hot start at Triple-A El Paso earned San Juan Capistrano’s Austin Hedges a call up to the San Diego Padres this week. Photo: Ivan Pierre Aguirre

San Juan Hills Football Hosts Gunslinger Passing Tournament COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

S

ome of the top high school football programs in Southern California traveled to San Juan Hills High School on May 16 to compete in the second annual Gunslinger Passing Tournament.

Mater Dei defeated St. John Bosco in the eight-team tournament’s championPage 17

ship game. The Monarchs beat Villa Park and the Braves beat Edison in the semifinals to secure championship berths.

Host team San Juan Hills lost to Oaks Christian 26-20 in the consolation championship bracket.

JSerra Catholic and Oceanside High School teams also competed at the tournament. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Tartans Lacrosse Crowned Champions St. Margaret’s lacrosse wins O.C. and Southern Section Lacrosse titles

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

F

or the second time in three years, the St. Margaret’s boys lacrosse team ran the gauntlet of postseason play to capture both the US Lacrosse Orange County and Southern Section championships.

After defeating crosstown rival JSerra in the Orange County championship game on May 13, the Tartans traveled to Mira Costa High on May 16 and defeated Palos Verdes 14-8 for the section title.

A huge fourth-quarter scoring outbreak separated the Tartans from the Sea Kings in the sectional championship.

Nick Shanks broke an 8-8 tie with just over 10 minutes to go in the game and his teammates followed suit. Samuel Harnisch, Paddy Fallon and Eric Suh all contributed consecutive goals as the Tartans outscored Palos Verdes 6-0 during the final 12 minutes to seal the win.

Both teams battled to a standstill throughout the match and entered the second half tied 7-7. Palos Verdes tied it up just before halftime behind goals from Austin Lowi, Peter Kenkhaus and Stanny Gilbertson.

St. Margaret’s and Palos Verdes scored

The St. Margaret’s boys lacrosse team celebrates after winning the US Lacrosse Southern Section title for the second time in three years. Photo: Courtesy

only one time in a tentative third quarter.

The Tartans had to navigate their way through an experienced and talented field of teams in the Orange County postseason bracket. The Tartans defeated Yorba Linda, Trabuco Hills and Corona del Mar before facing JSerra in the finals.

The Lions had just knocked off topranked Foothill in the semifinals and had scored 41 goals in their three previous playoff games before facing St. Margaret’s. While JSerra playmakers Yuta Murata, Logan Olmstead and Jake Schleppy all had multiple goals, the Tartans defense was able to hold on and St. Margaret’s won, 14-9.

St. Margaret’s saw an 11-6 lead shrink to a two-goal advantage in the third quarter.

After a goal from Murata, Matt Karzak and James Yanes each scored right before the whistle to make it 11-9 heading to the fourth quarter.

But the St. Margaret’s defense clamped down and the offense dominated possession over the final 12 minutes. The Lions were held scoreless in the fourth quarter.

“This was very, very tough … They had a ton of weapons everywhere and it was a very difficult puzzle to try and solve. I don’t even know if we did solve it. Fortunately, they ran out of time,” St. Margaret’s head coach Glen Miles said following the win over JSerra.

St. Margaret’s last accomplished the feat of winning both the Orange County and Southern Section titles in 2013. CD

Ryan Harnisch, left, and the St. Margaret’s boys lacrosse team defeated Palos Verdes on May 16 to capture the US Lacrosse Southern Section championship. Photo: Jill Fales

Warriors Volleyball All Business in CIF-SS Semifinal Victory

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

Saddleback Valley Christian junior Noah Dyer had 17 kills in the Warriors’ semifinal win over Santa Ynez on May 20. Photo: Courtesy

The Capistrano Dispatch May 22–June 11, 2015

he Saddleback Valley Christian boys volleyball team has spent much of the year playing against upper-division opponents. The Warriors moved from Division 5 up to Division 4 this season, but still played a difficult schedule full of Division 1 and Division 2 competition.

So when the top-seeded Warriors entered the CIF-SS Division 4 playoffs earlier this month, head coach Ryan Van Rensselaer implored his young team to treat each game like it was against a top-tier opponent, no matter who lined up on the other side of the net.

In the postseason’s semifinal match against Santa Ynez the Warriors turned in a very convincing performance, sweeping

the visitors from the Santa Barbara area in three sets 25-11, 25-15, 25-15.

Saddleback Valley Christian will face St. Margaret’s in the Division 4 championship game on May 23 at Cerritos College at 11:30 a.m.

The Warriors have swept every opponent they’ve faced in the playoffs, thanks in part to a mindset they have adopted over the course of a tough season-long schedule.

“We’ve been really trying to tighten it up. It’s like ‘You got your briefcase? You’re going to work today. Let’s get the job done’,” Van Rensselaer said. “We’re always saying we’ve been here before, let’s just go to work and have fun.”

Two players who lifted a CIF-SS trophy last season, junior Noah Dyer and sophomore John Minsberg, led the Warriors

Page 18

against Santa Ynez.

Dyer had a game-high 17 kills and Minsberg tallied five with one block.

Minsberg continuously set Dyer on the night and fueled a 6-0 run in the third set that put the Warriors up 21-15 and the match out of reach.

Santa Ynez led 8-5 in the second set, their first and largest lead of the game, but the Warriors won the next three points and eventually went on a 10-0 run to take a 19-10 lead. During the 10-0 run, Dyer had two blocks and three kills.

St. Margaret’s has been just as efficient as the Warriors in the playoffs and have yet to drop a set. Saddleback Valley Christian swept St. Margaret’s in three sets during a nonleague match on April 29. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com