July 10, 2015

July 4 Goes Out Blazing in San Juan SJC LIVING/PAGE 12

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

JULY 10–23, 2015 • VOLUME 13, ISSUE 13

Believing in a Bright Future Nonprofit CREER provides year-round educational, recreational opportunities for underprivileged youth E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6 Nearly 800 students from across south Orange County are participating in CREER’s summer camp program this year, which runs for six weeks at a time and offers a variety of classes. Photo: Allison Jarrell

City Manager Accepts Position in Encinitas EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

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Snowbird Bandit Robs Ladera Ranch Bank EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

24-Hour LAX Game Gives Back to Veterans SPORTS/PAGE 22

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

California has such a policy, which CUSD could significantly learn from.

“When something is going on that is illegal…or contrary to the policy of the board…there needs to be a safety valve,” Reardon said. “So what I hope that we can do together is develop that safety valve, implement it as policy in this district and then see to it that we don’t see a repeat of the kinds of fear that were expressed over the last few weeks.”

Five things San Juan should know this week City Manager Accepts Position in Encinitas THE LATEST: Following four years of service as San Juan Capistrano’s city manager, Karen Brust is leaving her current position to accept the role of city manager in her hometown of Encinitas.

During an Encinitas City Council meeting on July 8, Brust’s contract was approved unanimously. According to the agenda report, the City Council previously appointed the mayor and deputy mayor to serve as an ad hoc subcommittee to recommend a contract to hire Brust as the new city manager.

The terms of the contract include a start date of Sept. 1, 2015, and an annual base salary of $238,000, with a car allowance of $500 per month and a cell phone allowance of $100 per month. In San Juan, Brust’s starting salary in May 2011 was $218,000. As of 2013, she was making $224,412, according to online public employee salary database Transparent California. Before coming to San Juan, Brust served as Del Mar’s city manager for four years.

A July 6 press release from the city of San Juan Capistrano confirmed Brust’s departure while listing some of her accomplishments during her tenure in San Juan, including proposing the upcoming arrival of two new hotels downtown, pursuing an array of revitalization projects, working on the city’s free trolley service, contributing to infrastructure improvements, providing greater access to open space and more than doubling the city’s general fund reserves during financially difficult times.

“I want to thank Mayor Reeve and the City Council for the opportunity to serve the community,” Brust said in the release.

“I am very proud of what our mayor, City Council and executive team, with the support of staff, have achieved for the city of San Juan Capistrano during the past four years.”

“I will miss the residents and the business community, who I enjoyed working with and collaborated with for the betterment of the city,” Brust continued. “This is not an easy decision, but a rare opportunity to serve the city of Encinitas in which I live and to be closer to my family.”

Mayor Derek Reeve said that Brust is “one of, if not the best, city manager San The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2015

WHAT’S NEXT: The trustees acknowledged that there was a consensus to have a discussion about whistleblower policy, and Vital said the board has “scheduled with personnel to have the conversation July 22.”—AJ Karen Brust. Photo: Courtesy

Juan Capistrano has ever had.”

“I value the incredible progress the City has made under Karen’s leadership over the last four years,” Reeve said. “I am happy for her and the wonderful opportunity it provides for her family to be closer together, while at the same time knowing this will be a loss for our city.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Reeve said the city will begin seeking another city manager, and Brust will work with the City Council to help throughout the transition over the next couple months.

Brust was not available for comment Monday afternoon, as she is on vacation until July 22.—Allison Jarrell

CUSD Board to Consider Whistleblower Policy THE LATEST: At the Capistrano Unified School District’s June 24 board meeting, trustees agreed to have a discussion this summer about implementing a whistleblower policy in the district. Trustee Jim Reardon of District 2 brought up the topic of adding a whistleblower policy, noting that there’s been turmoil and fear among district staff over the last few weeks in San Clemente and elsewhere.

Hundreds of residents have been attending recent CUSD board meetings and emailing district administration following the dismissal of district employees such as San Clemente High School Principal Mike Halt.

Reardon said such a mechanism in which employees can bring forward issues to the board is “sorely lacking” in such a large organization as CUSD. In his research, he found that the only school district in California with a whistleblower policy is Los Angeles Unified School District. Reardon said that district has a policy that would be difficult to implement at CUSD due to different district structures.

He noted, however, that the University of

‘Snowbird Bandit’ Robs Ladera Ranch Bank THE LATEST: An armed robbery took place at 3:09 p.m. Monday, July 6 in Ladera Ranch at the U.S. Bank, located at 111 Corporate Drive, according to Orange County Sheriff’s Department officials.

The suspect handed bank employees a note, brandished a handgun and took cash from the bank, officials said. He was last seen on foot wearing a fedora-like hat and a white shirt.

Officials said the suspect is believed to be the “Snowbird Bandit,” a criminal who is now linked to at least four Orange County bank robberies since March, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigations in Los Angeles. The suspect is believed to be in his 60s, between 5 feet and 9 inches and 6 feet tall, and weighs 240 pounds.

On March 20, the suspect robbed Cal Bank & Trust in Monarch Beach; on May 22, he robbed First Citizens Bank in Rancho Santa Margarita; and on June 6, he robbed a Wells Fargo Bank in Mission Viejo. During the Mission Viejo robbery, he carried a white pouch with the word “Medic” printed on it.

WHAT’S NEXT: Anyone with information as to the identity of the Snowbird Bandit is asked to contact the FBI or call 911. In Los Angeles, the FBI can be reached 24 hours a day at 310.477.6565. Additional

information about bank robbers wanted in southern California can be found at www. labankrobbers.org.—Eric Heinz

Grand Jury Makes Findings, Recommendations for Mello-Roos Districts THE LATEST: On June 29, the Grand Jury of Orange County published findings and recommendations regarding Mello-Roos Community Funded Districts that could shape the ways in which accounting and transparency for the tax revenue is handled. The taxes pay for school infrastructure and projects within Capistrano Unified School District and entities in Orange County.

The Grand Jury’s findings stated, “There is a lack of transparency to homeowners relative to how CFD funds are being used. There does not seem to be appropriate oversight and auditing of CFDs and special tax expenditures within the County of Orange, (and) while the assumption is that the CFD debt would be repaid in a finite period of time, there is a mechanism available to controlling entities to extend debt obligations and thereby extend the CFD special tax in perpetuity.”

According to the document, CUSD taxpayers within Mello-Roos districts have tens of millions of dollars of outstanding construction obligations.

WHAT’S NEXT: The CUSD Board of Trustees will meet Aug. 12 to discuss the taxation rates for each Mello-Roos CFD for the next fiscal year. Recommendations from the findings for each local agency that established a CFD included creating an oversight committee and an audit committee to provide an “independent and transparent view of the manner in which CFD funds are being expended.” Additionally, the recommendations stated an audit report should be made available to the taxpayers as well as a website for taxpayers to monitor the expenditures.—EH

Full Highway, Bridge Closures This Weekend THE LATEST: Full closures of Interstate 5 in San Juan Capistrano and the Ortega Highway bridge are scheduled for Friday, July 10 from 11:59 p.m. to 6 a.m. and Saturday, July 11 from 11:59 p.m. to 6 a.m. The closures are necessary to allow crews to safely begin the process of removing falsework on the new Ortega Highway bridge, according to Orange County Transportation Authority officials.

The Ladera Ranch U.S. Bank’s security footage shows the alleged bank robber known as the Snowbird Bandit. Photo: Courtesy Orange County Sheriff’s Department

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WHAT’S NEXT: Motorists will be detoured around the closures. For more information and updates, visit www.octa.net.—AJ www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY ALLISON JARRELL

Skatepark Returns to Commission July 20 After refocusing in May on a new skatepark location, the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park, organizers and supporters of the movement to build a skatepark in San Juan are planning to return to a Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission meeting at 6 p.m. on July 20 to request the skatepark be increased by 8,000 square feet—from the 12,000 square feet design that was approved by the commission on June 15 to 20,000 square feet.

A presentation will be made before the commission that night.

In the meantime, the group—known as Capistrano Grind Skate Park—is looking for youth and community members to help design the future skatepark. Capistrano Grind will be hosting a design workshop next week. The date, time and location are to be determined. For updates and more news, follow Capistrano Grind Skate Park on Facebook.

Local Student Raises Money for Sick Sea Lion Pups In response to an unusually large number of sick sea lion pups coming ashore in Orange County, Natalie Schumacher, second-grade student at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, organized a school fundraiser to collect textiles which were purchased by Compassion Clothing. The school raised 1,260 pounds of clothes to be upcycled or made into yarn and insulation and donated $500 to help the Pacific Marine Mammal Center’s efforts.

In July, the Laguna Beach-based center

SJC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY ALISON SHEA

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.

Monday, July 6 ID THEFT Camino Del Rio, 28200 Block (8:24 p.m.)

A woman reported that nine accounts with different retailers and credit card companies were opened using her name and social security number.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Paseo Adelanto, 31700 Block (10:24 a.m.)

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2015

WEDNESDAY, JULY 15

Downtown Farmers Market

Natalie Schumacher, second-grade student at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, collected 1,260 pounds of clothes to donate to Compassion Clothing to raise funds for the Pacific Marine Mammal Center.

Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Schumacher

reported that 98 sea lion pups are being treated. The pups, which were all malnourished, were found along the Orange County coastline, from San Onofre State Beach to Seal Beach. The animals under the center’s care will take two to four months to nurse back to a healthy weight before they can be released back into the ocean.

Zuri Pet Spa & Resort to Host Second Annual Fundraiser On Saturday, July 25, Zuri Pet Spa & Resort in San Juan Capistrano is raising money from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to help purchase a much needed pet adoption trailer for the Riverside animal shelter.

The event includes a silent auction, music, games and pet adoptions. All grooming proceeds from the day will go to the fundraiser. Old and new dog beds and blanket donations are welcome. Zuri Pet Spa is located at 32423 Calle Perfecto in San Juan Capistrano. For more

information, call 949.429.7222 or visit www.thezuripetspa.com.

Nonprofit Hosting Event to Help the Homeless San Juan-based nonprofit Our Father’s Table is hosting a “Shopping in the Park” quarterly event for the homeless of south Orange County on July 18 beginning at noon at the Historic Town Center Park.

The day includes a homemade pot luck lunch for the homeless in attendance and distribution of clothing, outerwear, shoes, blankets and hygiene kits. Volunteers are needed for the event, as well as item donations. To RSVP as a volunteer or to donate, contact OFT at christinel@ourfatherstableus.org or 949.324.0908.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more.

We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

A caller reported a pit bull and chihuahua were let off their leashes at Los Rios Park.

who lost control of his shopping cart in the roadway.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (1:56 a.m.)

A woman reported a man with a guitar tried to get in her window.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Calle San Francisco, 26400 Block (6:12 p.m.) The police checked for numerous “gang types” drinking alcohol and urinating by the garages.

Sunday, July 5 FIREWORK VIOLATION Avenida De La Vista/Paseo Carmel (9:20 p.m.) Police officers checked the alleyway for people shooting off skyrockets and firecrackers.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle San Francisco, 26400 Block (7:18 p.m.) A caller reported gang activity and possible drug usage.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Stonehill Drive/Camino Capistrano (6:32 p.m.) Traffic was stopped for a transient

Saturday, July 4 FIREWORK VIOLATION Calle San Felipe/Calle La Bomba (7:59 p.m.) Fireworks were being set off in the area and one landed in a caller’s yard on San Vicente.

PETTY THEFT Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (7:14 p.m.)

A male juvenile stole two 30-packs of beer, got into a black Kia full of other juveniles, and went behind the Denault’s.

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3 p.m.–7 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. www.farmersmarketsjc.com.

San Juan Summer Nites Concert Series

6 p.m.-8 p.m. The summer concert series continues with a performance by Family Style. The event includes dancing, food, beer and wine, a business expo and activities for kids. Historic Town Center Park, 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5911, www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, JULY 17

Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town

hall forum on community issues. Every Friday at Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome. www.facebook.com/sjccoffeechat.

SATURDAY, JULY 18

Capistrano Eagles Annual Community Food Drive Noon-5 p.m. The Capistrano

Eagles Motorcycle Club is hosting its annual “Christmas in July” food drive at Swallows Inn to support Father Serra’s Pantry. Live music by Family Style. For more information, call 714.321.9923.

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

TUESDAY, JULY 21

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, JULY 22

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, JULY 24

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Believing in a Bright Future CREER Comunidad y Familia provides yearround educational, recreational opportunities for underprivileged youth

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

C

reer means to believe.

And whether or not you knew that translation, it’s not hard to see the core values of local nonprofit CREER Comunidad y Familia in the smiling faces of their volunteers and the children they serve—belief in the power of the human spirit, belief in the power of community and belief that all goals and dreams are achievable.

These are the values being instilled in students and volunteers alike each day this summer during CREER’s summer programs, taking place in borrowed classrooms at San Juan Elementary and Kinoshita Elementary, thanks to the support of the Capistrano Unified School District. Angeles Ceballos, Executive Director of CREER, said she believes it’s programs like these that keep students focused, motivated and on track for future success.

“The most important part is that the kids are actually learning and closing some of the (educational) gaps that most of them have because they’re trying to learn two languages at the same time,” Ceballos said. “There are no summer programs available at (public) schools right now, so our kids were going to be out on the streets, and they needed somewhere to go to have fun. This also prevents them getting involved in gangs or trouble.”

While CREER was founded in 2004, the summer program was first proposed

by Ceballos in 2012 as a pilot program.

Nine summer classes were implemented that year with 159 children enrolled from across south Orange County. The program has grown exponentially ever since, with 356 children in 2013 and 659 students last summer. This year, Ceballos said roughly 70 volunteers—including her sister Rosario Roswell, who now serves as CREER’s director of education—are working to accommodate about 800 students between the two schools. Each year involves a lengthy wait list due to CREER’s lack of resources and volunteer tutors—classes are limited to 15 students each.

Ceballos said the program gives students a safe, supportive environment to learn and have fun over the course of six The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2015

Students enjoy outdoor recess time during their first week of CREER’s summer program. Photo: Allison Jarrell

CREER Fundraiser Set for July 16

Students get ready to participate in a theater class during their first week of CREER’s summer program.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

kids coming “fromWeallhave over south county.

We try to take as many as we can until we run out of room. We’ve had students from Mission Viejo, Santa Ana, and even Sacramento.

—Angeles Ceballos

”

weeks during the summer. Students can partake in classes such as math, reading comprehension and writing, as well as activities like music, dance, drawing, folklore, arts and crafts and piñata making.

While the program’s focus is on educational value—like building vocabulary and structuring sentences correctly—Ceballos said each class incorporates creativity and hands-on teaching techniques implemented by passionate, knowledgeable retired teachers or college students looking to gain experience in education.

One such student, Will Reeder from Capo Beach, recently graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a degree in choral

On July 16, CREER Comunidad y Familia is hosting a festive fundraiser benefiting the local nonprofit’s summer and afterschool programs. The event begins at 7 p.m. at the San Juan Hills Golf Course in San Juan Capistrano and includes live music performed

by Tuscon-based Latin rock group Tesoro.

The concert will benefit CREER, with all donations going to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

The concert provides funds needed for the children attending CREER’s summer school and afterschool programs, allowing them to receive much-needed assistance in reading, writing, math, science, music, dance and folk culture. A $20 donation is requested for admission. Lawrence, the 19th Hole bar manager, is buying a Cadillac margarita for anyone who attends and donates a minimum of $40 and has a July birthday. Tickets can be purchased at the event or prior to the event by calling CREER Executive Director Angeles Ceballos at 714.788.8339 or visiting Ricardo’s Place, located at 32082 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

Those interested in volunteering as an instructor or an assistant with CREER should also contact Ceballos at 714.788.8339. music education. He heard about CREER through a friend, and on a recent Tuesday morning, he was teaching young children to clap out a rhythm to an uplifting children’s song.

“It’s a great opportunity for the community and a good alternative to summer school,” Reeder said. “Especially with music, the more exposure you get to music as a kid and the more positive experiences you get, the more you enjoy it.”

It’s also been a learning experience for the young teacher, too.

“I’m used to working with older students—they’re a very energetic bunch here.” Reeder grinned after his lesson. “I

Page 6

tend to be more animated around them.”

Last year, Ceballos estimates that 60 percent of their summer students received partial or full scholarships, as each class costs $40 per child. Ninety percent of the families CREER caters to, Ceballos added, live below the poverty line, many in San Juan and neighboring cities.

“We have kids coming from all over south county,” Ceballos said. “We try to take as many as we can until we run out of room. We’ve had students from Mission Viejo, Santa Ana and even Sacramento.”

Because CREER is a nonprofit, much of the group’s funding comes from grants, which were scarce this year, in addition to community and corporate donations. This year, in addition to lending the space to CREER, Ceballos said CUSD trustees and Superintendent Kirsten Vital also offered to provide lunches for all of the students this summer.

Ceballos said “every penny helps,” when it comes to purchasing new materials and books for the students year-round.

She said the generosity of San Juan residents and businesses is astounding, especially supporters like Tokyomods motorcycle shop in San Juan; Jeffrey Singer, board member of Angels for the Arts at Saddleback College; and Ricardo and Rosa Beas of Ricardo’s Place restaurant in San Juan.

Singer, as well as the Ricardo and Rosa, can often be found promoting CREER, and Singer is quick to tell you about the impact the group has on the youth of San Juan.

“I’ve seen the expression on these kids’ faces when they get up to give a speech, thanking their instructors or playing guitar or dancing in front of an audience,” Singer said. “These young students, kindergarten to eighth grade, are excelling because the volunteer assistants and teachers reach these kids. They connect on a level that is hard to explain.”

Singer said his theory is that the kids are succeeding because they want to learn in a safe, friendly environment with passionate, caring staff members who believe in them and want them to succeed.

“People succeed because they have a desire to learn and pick up on the fact that the volunteers are there because they, too, want to be there,” Singer said. “These kids want to learn. When they learn a new topic they can help others—this is key to happiness, and these kids get it.”

For those interested in seeing what the students have learned and created over the summer, CREER’s closing ceremony takes place Saturday, Aug. 15 at the Historic Town Center Park in downtown San Juan. Ceballos estimates between 400 and 600 people will show up to view the children’s artwork, see them dance and hear them perform.

For more information on getting involved with CREER, follow Creer San Juan Capistrano on Facebook, call Ceballos at 714.788.8339, or visit their office at the Stonefield Park, located between Camino Capistrano and La Zanja Street. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor OVERPASS CONSTRUCTION LAGS ON —Ted Ury, San Juan Capistrano Something must be done to get the construction work completed on the Ortega and Las Ramblas freeway overpasses (and parts in between), the ugly mess cleaned up and the dangerous concrete blocks removed. This mess, causing highway congestion and dangerous driving conditions, has been going on for more than five years, and it appears that, if nothing is done to correct the problem, it will last for another five years.

The problem, as I see it, is that no one seems to be working on the projects.

When you drive by, you seldom see any construction workers at all, and when you do see one or two hard hats, they are usually just looking or leaning on their pickup trucks, doing nothing constructive.

You also see millions of dollars’ worth of construction equipment sitting idle and construction materials piled everywhere along the roadsides year after year, unused and ugly. This is costing the taxpayers millions of wasted dollars. The contractor apparently is in no hurry to complete these projects, as the longer they last, the more they make in profits.

Hopefully, other residents in San Juan Capistrano (and neighboring communities) who have to drive through and see this mess every day will join me to put pressure on those responsible to do something to get these projects completed ASAP.

IN RESPONSE TO FORMER COUNCILMAN KRAMER —Mark Speros, San Juan Capistrano I was aghast to read Larry Kramer’s letter “Facing the Drought,” (Dispatch 6/12/15 Letters to the Editor). Nowhere in his letter does he mention that he was a former council member or that he repeatedly voted not only to support the Ground Water Recovery Plant, but he also supported the now-ruled-illegal rate study that was not only overturned, but will cost the city millions.

His audacity to criticize the current council that’s putting “humpty-dumpty” back together again after the ill-advised and fiscally irresponsible spending by the former council makes me wonder if Kramer is suffering from memory loss.

Let’s look at the facts.

Every resident in this city is shouldering their share of $15 million worth of fixed overhead for the GWRC, which has only produced its required 4,300 acre feet of production once in a decade. Worse yet, its “drought-proof” stature, repeatedly The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2015

touted by current and former councilmembers Sam Allevato, Kramer and John Taylor, has not only proven to be a fallacy, but is the subject of two lawsuits—one successfully waged by the Capistrano Taxpayers Association on the former rate basis to cover GWRC spending, and another by the golf course that has wells sucking air despite their primary water rights over the city. How dare Kramer question the $350,000 invested by the council, after his direction as a sitting council member resulted in the direct cost of 1) a successful lawsuit against the city, 2) the expenditure of nearly $1 million dollars in legal fees for attorneys representing the city and 3) repayment of CTA’s attorney fees—attorneys who begged the council Kramer sat on to fix things prior to the lawsuit.

It boggles my mind for him to complain “the reduction in GWRC production is projected to result in $1.5 million dollars in losses,” while those losses rest squarely on his and the former (and one current) council members’ shoulders, who defied residents and expert concerns alike about the “drought-proof” aspect of the plant’s production while they repeatedly voted to prop it up with millions of dollars of expenditures that left you and I with pennies on the dollar in returns. Worse yet, his legacy created an anvil of fixed costs that must be paid, regardless of the ability of the GWRP to actually function. Thanks, Kramer for not looking out for my financial future.

Kramer’s statement, “the current city council appears to be gutless or clueless… and future council members will have to do the right thing,” shows just how Teflonproof the former members (and current member Allevato) think they are in not taking any responsibility for the gigantic, costly financial mess they got each of us into. So while I appreciate Kramer’s constitutional rights to share his thoughts, I’m much more thankful for the democratic process that voted him out the door. Let’s allow the current council a similar amount of leeway to right the ship.

SJC LIBRARY, BOOKSTORE HOST VALUABLE EVENTS —Jon Zeiger, Dana Point Having attended the local author lecture and book signing event at the San Juan Capistrano library bookstore, I only wish that more folks knew about this gem of a place. It is located on the east side of the renowned Michael Graves SJC library.

The authors at the June 21 gathering represented several generations of veterans, from WWII through Afghanistan (including Vietnam). Each author spoke about their service time in the military, and also about their post-military lives. Book signing and refreshments were part of the afternoon festivities, as well as one-on-one conversations. This quaint bookstore is open and welcoming with ongoing events and gently used books at bargain prices, Page 9

as well as new books and new authors.

The bookstore’s other gem is the multicultural concert series, hosted by the SJC Friends of the Library and held in the library courtyard, where superb talent is showcased.

QUAD-CITY TROLLEY COULD BOOST LOCAL ECONOMY —Patrick Crowley, San Juan Capistrano The Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Beach free trolleys are a great opportunity for all to see the gloriousness we are blessed with. Don’t know where to go? Have an adventure—it’s free and easy.

The lone open-air San Juan Capistrano trolley runs about every 45 minutes from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. I have not ridden it as I live near downtown and can get around quickly on my bicycle.

I do not have a smart phone, so I cannot use the trolley tracker app. There is no set schedule, and my time is too valuable to be waiting at a trolley stop for 45 minutes.

If you go to the San Juan trolley’s last stop south at the Residence Inn, off of Stonehill Drive and Camino Capistrano, you can walk a half mile to the Dana Point trolley stop in front of the Doheny Village Car Wash in Capo Beach.

The Dana Point trolley operates Friday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day. The four “woodie” trolleys are well-organized and spaced about 15 minutes apart. You can go as far south as Capo Beach Park and as far north as the Ritz.

The Laguna Beach trolleys start on Ritz Carlton Drive next to the Ritz and go as far north as Crystal Cove State Park and to the art fairs. And you have to love the trolley hours: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. seven days a week through Aug. 30. I suggest going early and as far north as you want to go to beat the crowds and overloaded trolleys.

The trolleys need ridership to get more funding from OCTA, AQMD, etc. for the coming years. At least 10 riders on each trolley per hour are needed. I suggest advertising and adding a donation drop on the trolleys to help generate funds. San Clemente is applying for a grant to start a trolley next year. A quad-city trolley could be a boon to our local city economies, if there are enough riders.

Please go have an adventure so the trolley network can grow. I suggest a new stop at Costco or Smart & Final in Capo Beach to close the link between San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point’s trolleys. Ridership would certainly increase, and more tourists mean more commerce, activity, fun and adventure. All aboard!

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CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Evan Da Silva, Jacob Onofrio, Dana Schnell, Alison Shea, Tim Trent,

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 13, Issue 13. The Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch ) is published twice monthly

by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (www. sanclementetimes.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives.

Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@thecapistranodispatch.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List What’s going on in and around town

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 10 FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7 p.m.-9 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library presents the 2015 comedy The Wedding Ringer. A $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.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE, ABRIDGED 8 p.m. Opening night performance at the Camino Real Playhouse. Watch three men perform a comedic interpretation of every role ever written by William Shakespeare—all in 90 minutes. Shows every Friday and Saturday through July 18.

Tickets are $20-$25. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Saturday | 11 THE STRAY CATS’ LEE ROCKER 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. The Festival of Arts’ Concerts on the Green series kicks off with rockabilly legend Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats. Free with price of festival admission.

Reserved seating $25. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 800.487.3378, www.lagunafestivalofarts.org.

SECOND STAGE STAND-UP 7:30 p.m. Every second Saturday of the month, a lineup of professional comedians performs on the Camino Real Playhouse stage. July’s show will be headlined by Tom Clark of Last Comic Standing, Premium Blend and the Bob & Tom Show. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15. Reservations are recommended. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Sunday | 12 ON IMPULSE AT CABRILLO PLAYHOUSE: SIMPLY SIMON 8 p.m. The On Impulse Acting Troupe continues their summer season at the Cabrillo Playhouse with a hilarious night of Neil Simon comedy scenes at 8 p.m. on July 10 and 11 and 2 p.m. on July 12. Tickets are $20. Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10-23, 2015

Monday | 13

Saturday | 18

MOVIE MONDAYS: LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS 8 p.m. Visit the Segerstrom Center’s Arts Plaza this summer for evenings filled with family-friendly activities, food trucks and movie screenings. Movie Mondays run every week July 13 through Aug. 10, beginning with the two-time Academy Award nominated musical Little Shop of Horrors.

Admission is free. Guests are encouraged to bring beach chairs, snacks and picnics.

600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787, www.scfta.org.

THE 39TH ANNUAL OCEAN FESTIVAL 6:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Enjoy a beach day at San Clemente’s annual festival celebrating our region’s largest resource: the ocean.

Watch as surfers, stand-up paddlers and lifeguards battle it out on the water in an array of games and contests. Join in the fun with fishing and surfing clinics, woodie exhibits, crafts, art shows, sand sculpting, dancing and more. A free beach concert featuring The Cholulas will take place 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday night. The event is free and runs through 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Free parking and shuttle service from San Clemente High School. San Clemente Pier, 949.440.6141, www.oceanfestival.org.

Wednesday | 15 THE TIM GILL ALL-STARS 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Enjoy a performance by the Tim Gill All-Stars featuring vocalist Adryon DeLeon at The Ranch, part of the Laguna Beach Live! Jazz Wednesday Summer Festival. Food and drinks available for purchase. Tickets $17 online, $22 at the door. Doors open at 5 p.m. 31106 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach. For tickets or more info, visit www.lagunabeachlive.org or call 949.715.9713.

MULTICULTURAL ARTS SERIES 6:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. South Coast Simcha Band showcases traditional Klezmer and Yiddish music in the San Juan Capistrano Library courtyard. Two concerts will be performed at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. $20 for adults, $5 for kids 12 and under.

Tickets available at the door. 31495-A El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.2688, www.scsimchaband.com.

Sunday | 19

Thursday | 16 FESTIVAL OF ARTS: ART, JAZZ, WINE AND CHOCOLATE 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. On Thursday nights, indulge your senses at the “Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate” series at Festival of Arts, a juried fine art show featuring the work of 140 award-winning artists. Sample a wide variety of Kendall-Jackson wines selected to complement and enhance the nuanced flavor of high-end chocolates while enjoying music performed by jazz singer and songwriter Billy Valentine. Concerts are free. Wine and chocolate pairings (21 and over) are $15 in addition to Festival of Arts admission. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 800.487.3378, www.lagunafestivalofarts.org.

Friday | 17 SWING UNDER THE STARS 6 p.m. Enjoy a night out under the stars with a free Saddleback Big Band show at Saddleback College’s upper campus quad. Areas are available for blankets and chairs, or reserved seating is available for $20 per person (presale only). Guests are invited to bring a picnic dinner or enjoy food from several local food trucks and vendors. The festival grounds will also feature activities for all ages. Saddleback College, 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback. edu/arts.

LOCAL AUTHOR LECTURE SERIES 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library hosts authors Donna Barclay Fleming and Cynthia Weitz. Books by the authors will be available for sale, and a reception will be held after with light refreshments. Admission is free, but RSVP is required as space is limited. The Bookstore, 31495-A El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.4512.

Monday | 20 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GARDEN CLUB 10 a.m. Garden Club guest speaker Lucian Toma will discuss how to create a sustainable backyard garden in southern California’s climate. San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.584.1680, www.sanjuancapistranogardenclub.com.

Thursday | 23 THE DUPP BROTHERS 7:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

Page 10

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

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

At the Movies: Magic Mike XXL Isn’t Big on Story

Photo: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

BY MEGAN BIANCO

T

he sequel to Steven Soderbergh’s Magic Mike is given the amusing title Magic Mike XXL, not even bothering to be subtle about the film’s content or context. One criticism fans of the first smash-hit movie had three years ago was that there wasn’t enough skin for a movie that takes place at a male strip club.

This time around, there’s less plot, less drama, more comedy, more dancing and most of the same characters as the last time—but to just-passable quality.

After being convinced to join his former fellow male strippers, Mike Lane (Channing Tatum) leaves his construction gig for a road trip from Tampa to Myrtle Beach with Ken (Matt Bomer), Richie (Joe Manganiello), Tito (Adam Rodriguez) and Tarzan (Kevin Nash) for a national strip competition. Along the way there are pranks, hook-ups with old and new flings and impromptu routines.

Donald Glover co-stars as a newbie stripper in Mike’s crew, and Amber Heard, Elizabeth Banks, Andie MacDowell and Jada Pinkett-Smith make appearances throughout the film.

Soderbergh hands over the direction to Gregory Jacobs for the sequel and screenwriter Reid Carolin pens the script again, possibly the reason the tone is less gritty than before.

Because they focus primarily on character interaction and less on an actual storyline in XXL, there’s more dancing and grinding, but surprisingly less skin than the previous flick.

XXL isn’t any more necessary or memorable this time around, but it’s just enough for a group of girlfriends to experience for fun. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Family Style rocks the stage at the annual July 4 celebration. Photo: Scott Schmitt

An aerial view of the carnival, which took place at the San Juan Sports Park. Photo: Scott Schmitt

A Brilliant Fourth in San Juan Capistrano THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Thousands of locals and visitors flocked to the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park for the city’s annual Fourth of July festivities, including a two-day carnival capped off with a fireworks show. The celebration included live music performed by Family Style, dancing into the night, an array of nostalgic carnival rides and activities for kids, and vendors providing food and drink for purchase. The evening’s grand finale consisted of a colorful fireworks display, one some residents have said was the best in recent history.

Left: Hanging out at the carnival. Above: The Veterans of Foreign Wars Serra Post 3801 from San Juan Capistrano presents the colors during the annual ceremony. Photos: Scott Schmitt

Mission San Juan Capistrano Hosts OC Meets Napa & Baja Event THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O Attendees dance to the music of Family Style at the San Juan Fourth of July celebration. Photo: Alan Gibby

Two boys enjoy a thrill ride at the San Juan Carnival.

Photo: Scott Schmitt

San Juan’s July 4 fireworks display consisted of a range of brilliant colors. Photo: Scott Schmitt

Residents and visitors enjoy the day’s festivities on July 4. Photo: Alan Gibby

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10-23, 2015

n July 18, an inaugural food and wine tasting event held at Mission San Juan Capistrano will help raise funds for health care services and programs throughout Orange County.

OC Meets Napa and Baja, presented

by Community Health Center AltaMed, will bring primarily Latino-centric restaurants and chefs in Orange County and Latino-owned wineries in Napa and Baja together in a celebration of culture. Proceeds from all ticket sales go toward supporting the Orange County health services and programs that AltaMed spearheads in underserved communities.

“We’re immensely grateful for the

Page 12

support the Orange County community has shown in supporting AltaMed’s work,” said AltaMed CEO Castulo de la Rocha. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to kick off an event that not only showcases the success and honors the contributions of these great chefs and vintners but raises money to continue funding our essential, locally based programs.”

The event also includes several bands performing on Napa and Baja pavilions.

For additional information, visit www.altamed.org/ocmeetsnapaandbaja, or follow OC Meets Napa & Baja on Facebook for updates on participating chefs, vintners, ticket sales and more. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Four Kids and a Dog by Elizabeth Bottiaux

Decluttering in Search of an Awesome Summer

A

few weeks ago I sat hovered over my phone, intertwining four summer schedules into my calendar. I had it all figured out. Everybody’s camps and classes were carefully arranged in my trusty phone. It certainly wasn’t an easy task to configure the master schedule.

But, I’d done it. I should’ve felt content. I thought I’d feel relieved to have my quad of kids actively pursuing an awesome summer.

But, no.

Instead, I looked at that calendar and found myself growing increasingly frustrated. Nearly every single summer day was accounted for. Each glorious, free flowing, lazy summer day—for which we’d awaited since September—was reserved. After our family vacation, we were left FOUR KIDS with a mere handful of AND A DOG freedom. Those weeks

By Elizabeth Bottiaux were threatened to be swiftly snatched up by enticing activities.

Dance camps, church camps, musical theatre camps, surf camps, swim team and Junior Lifeguards were the culprits.

As a kid, I never had the opportunity to partake in a vast buffet of recreational delights. My childhood summers were low key. My two younger brothers and I spent our endless summer days playing mailman, swimming in the neighbor’s pool, frog hunting in the creek (until my brother unearthed the towering stack of Playboys near the murky water). My friends and I would ride bikes on the bike trail, alongside the canal. We tirelessly perfected our cartwheels and handstands on the cool front lawn at dusk. We’d thunder through front yards during heated games of tag and hide ‘n seek. We built majestic indoor forts—using every single blanket and bed sheet in the house.

There were plenty of boring days too.

I remember my dad warning us that if we stayed inside watching cartoons any longer, people would forget that kids lived in our home. Mom bought me a thick Big Book of Things to Do so I’d stop bugging her about it. It worked; for a short while.

I developed a love of simple things. Reading. Crafting. These slow days of summer empowered us to entertain ourselves. We learned to decompress from the quicker pace of the school year.

I had to choose.

The proposed lineup was impressive.

Hours of shuttling over-heated, complaining children in a smallish, motorized rectangular box on wheels, was not. And I was to blame. If I signed them up, it would be nobody’s fault but my own that The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2015

our summer was over- scheduled. I’ve had to convince myself that my kids don’t need these extracurricular activities. They would survive without over-the-top camps and classes galore.

So, I’ve decided not to.

I’m decluttering our summer. It’s going to be simple. Easy. I refuse to make my summer an extension of the hectic school year. I want my kids to have a fun summer.

But, I also want my kids to experience a boring summer.

My kids weren’t exactly thrilled when I announced we’d be participating in minimal planned activities this summer. There were tears and lots of moaning. At first I felt guilty about their disappointment. Not for long. They’re going to have an oldfashioned summer; the kind I experienced as a kid. They’ll have to learn to love it.

“

They’re going to have an old- fashioned summer; the kind I experienced as a kid. They’ll have to learn to love it.

”

I’m not going to omit every single planned activity. A few will remain. Last summer was Sarah’s first year of Junior Guards. It was nothing short of magical.

She has looked forward to JG since last summer and will be returning in August for her debut leap off the pier. Bi-weekly swim practice will continue for both boys.

Other than that, let freedom ring!

I want my kids to know what it feels like to play outside all day, barefoot, with toes sticky from Popsicle drippings. They can stay up too late on a hot summer night, with no place to be the next morning.

Swim in the pool so long their fingers and toes become shriveled like raisins. I want them to play in the warm sand all day at the beach. Hunt for sand crabs. Boogie board in the salty sea. Learn to surf.

After this summer experiment of stripping away summer excess, maybe I’ll decide it wasn’t a great route. No matter what, we’ll make an abundance of memories. Hopefully we can pull off a simple summer to remember.

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

Page 15

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

Preserving the Historic Town Center Park City should not consider a redesign of historically significant park in downtown San Juan

A

t a special Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission meeting on June 10, the commission voted to approve a list of high priority Capital Improvement Program projects for consideration by the City Council, including the redesign of the Historic Town Center Park “with added features to accommodate city-wide and private rentals; paver driveway for vendors; storage/kitchen building attached behind the stage; upgrade restrooms; playground equipment/activity area in the open space area.” The improvements would be coordinated with the nearby hotel project.

Historic Town Center Park is a very sensitive area as stated in the Historic Downtown Master Plan Environmental Impact Report.

There is no way that the “commission suggestion to

the City Council should go forward... This is a unique site for our community and we should be grateful to the redevelopment agency for preserving it for our enjoyment.

”

At the time the park was acquired by the redevelopment agency for public use, it was being considered for a Texaco Gas Station. Not only did the redevelopment agency save the park area, it also saved the Blas Aguilar Adobe, which is now on the National Registry for Historic Places. The

agency leased the Adobe to the Blas Aguilar Foundation, which has created a Juaneño Acjachemen Cultural Center. The Adobe now tells the story of the Native Americans, the Spanish, the Mexicans and the Europeans MOMENTS IN TIME who have contributed to

By Jan Siegel our city’s history.

When the Blas Aguilar Foundation started, the park area was overgrown with weeds. Every time the city wanted to do something on the site, the local Native Americans said no. This area was considered sacred, because many believed that their ancestors were buried beneath the ground. What we do know is that besides the Blas, other structures that once existed in the area were the Canedo Adobe, Casa Tejada Adobe, the Mendelson Inn Hotel and the Burruel Adobe. Just three years ago, the Blas Aguilar Foundation found an old well, oven and another adobe wall just outside the current adobe building.

As a result of the many archeological tests, this area has been designed as a specialty park. It is really a contemplative park. That means that one cannot play soccer, football, baseball or basketball.

No stakes can be put into the ground that might destroy the artifacts or the bones of the deceased. But it does mean that we can enjoy concerts, plays, picnics and a tree lighting ceremony.

When restrooms were first suggested for the park, it required more testing of the ground, and the only area where they could be put is where they are currently located, on the corner of El Camino Real and Forster Street. The reason that this site was selected is that it was the back of the Burruel Adobe, where trash deposits were

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium found. There were no sensitive artifacts.

There is no way that the commission suggestion to the City Council should go forward. The city should not explore the possibility. This is a unique site for our community and we should be grateful to the redevelopment agency for preserving it for our enjoyment.

You can spend a ‘Moment in Time’ by visiting Historic Town Center Park for all of the special events that the city has every year. Once the restoration work on the Blas Aguilar is completed, remember to visit this historic structure which means so much to the history of our community.

Jan Siegel is a 27-year resident of San Juan Capistrano. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 13 years and has been a volunteer guide for the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library’s architectural walking tour for 17 years.

She was named Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

SJC LIVING

Giving the Gift of Cycling Great Opportunities nonprofit gives local children hands-on experience with bicycle safety

BY ALISON SHEA, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

G

reat Opportunities, a local nonprofit organization that strives to educate children and prepare them for reallife situations, celebrated National Bike Month in May by hosting two events to focus on bicycle education—a bike rodeo and a mass bike ride.

Great Opportunity co-founder Eric Groos said the goal of May’s events was “to educate children on the importance of bicycle safety and prepare them to navigate the local roads and bicycle trails.”

On May 9, children at the San Juan Elementary School campus listened to lectures, given by an Orange County Deputy Sheriff and an Orange County Fire Authority Paramedic, explaining the importance of helmets and safety gear. After the lectures, children participated in an obstacle course that tested their knowledge and prepared them for situations they might encounter on the open road. On May 23, a mass bike ride from the Capo Villas to Doheny State

Local children celebrated National Bike Month in May by participating in a bike clinic hosted by Great Opportunities. Photo: Courtesy Eric Groos

Beach took place, with cyclists traveling along Trabuco Creek and San Juan Creek.

The San Juan Capistrano Rotary donated 50 bike helmets to the events, and Buy My Bikes donated 35 used bikes for the children to use on their mass bike ride.

The bike clinic that took place prior to the two events marked the first time the kids were taught basic bike repair techniques, in addition to learning about bike safety from a San Juan Capistrano crime prevention specialist. CD

Friends of the Library Celebrate First Anniversary The all-volunteer group continues to host an array of summertime concerts, films and events THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

t’s been just over a year now since the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library opened The Bookstore—a quaint shop offering used and new books adjacent to the San Juan library.

But over this past year, the Friends have been offering much more than a bargain on books. They’ve revived beloved summer events like the Multicultural Arts Series, while adding new community gatherings, such as the monthly Local Author Lecture Series. Read on for a summary of this summer’s happenings hosted by the SJC Friends of the Library. Call 949.493.2688 or visit www.ocpl.org/libloc/ sjc for more information.

First Friday Film • First Friday Films occur each month in the library’s La Sala Auditorium from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. July 10

La Sala Auditorium and Courtyard at the San Juan Capistrano Library. File photo

Page 18

features The Wedding Ringer, Aug. 7 is Unbroken, and Sept. 4 is Spare Parts.

Admission is $2 donation to support the library, or free for members. La Sala Auditorium is located at 31495 El Camino Real.

Family Film Feature • From 10 a.m. to noon, the Friends presents a matinee film the first Saturday of the month in the La Sala Auditorium. Admission is free, and complimentary popcorn is served.

Local Author Lecture Series • From 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Friends of the Library hosts local authors for a lecture, book signing and reception each month.

Each lecture is free, but an RSVP is required (space is limited) by calling 949.218.4512. The series features local authors such as Donna Barclay Fleming and Cynthia Weitz on July 19; David T. Dana III’s on Aug. 1, and Anita Hughes on Aug. 16. Each event takes place at The Bookstore, located at 31495-A El Camino Real.

Multicultural Arts Series • Throughout the summer, the Friends presents an array of musical acts performing two concerts each night at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. in the San Juan Capistrano Library courtyard. July 18 features the South Coast Simcha Band, Aug. 15 is Carlos Valasco and Sept. 12 showcases Inca the Peruvian ensemble. Admission is $20 for adults, or $5 for kids 12 and under. Tickets are available at the door. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

SUP—Good for Old Surfers, Retirees and Women

L

ast week, Tod Bryant, a former neighbor in San Clemente said, “Now that you’re retired, what are you doing to keep busy?”

“I go stand up paddle boarding five times a week,” I said.

Tod, a young-looking, 66-year-old, enthusiastically added, “SUP is great for people in their 50s to 80s, providing good exercise and social interaction with other people. You should write an article about SUP.” Tod’s right about the social interaction.

I paddle with five different men, ages 50 to 70, most often with Russell Kerr, from Laguna Niguel, who is in his mid-60s and retired, and he is the former chairman of the board of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.

Additionally, I am amazed at the number of women who participate in SUP. I asked Robin Gordon of Monarch Beach why she enjoys it so much.

Robin said, “Three reasons: 1. SUP provides entire-body exercise. 2.

It’s social; my husband Bruce and I can chat while paddling. 3. Being ON LIFE AND outdoors and enjoying LOVE AFTER 50 the ocean is wonderful.”

By Tom Blake “Why are woman so good at it?” I asked Robin.

“Balance,” she said.

On July 4 at Baby Beach, I saw Steve and Barrie Boehne, the owners of Infinity Surf Shop on Del Prado in Dana Point.

They were with friends Mac and Gloria McLaughlin, who are from Laguna Niguel, on the Boehne’s 21-foot SUP board, which Steve hand-crafted.

“Women embrace SUP because it is good, easy, outdoor exercise,” Steve said.

“Because SUP surfing in the waves is mostly segregated away from regular surfers at Doheny and San Onofre, the SUP surfers are more welcoming to each other at those areas, so the percentage of women SUP surfers is higher than at regular surfing spots.”

Barrie added, “Women like SUP because it’s a way of getting together socially, which is fun while experiencing nature and being captain of their own ships. They can stay in shape and do this at any age.”

Mary Ann Remer, 60, Dana Point, said, “SUP is my therapy on many levels. It thoroughly strengthened and healed my injured back. It is my ‘go-to’ for enjoying God’s gifts in nature, to meditate and regroup.”

Mary Ann added, “Veteran surfers with knee and shoulder challenges get another chance to relive their passion on the water.

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(L to R): Barrie Boehne, Gloria McLaughlin, Mac McLaughlin and Steve Boehne participate in stand up paddle boarding on Saturday. Photo: Courtesy of Tom Blake

And mothers with their babies can SUP. There is a mother who paddles with three toddlers regularly in the harbor. People include their dogs on their boards while enjoying our blessed weather and ocean.

There are group Yoga lessons on SUP boards.”

Two of my surfing buddies, Bob Lacy and Jim Shockey, both in their 60s, are accomplished stand up paddlers. They keep reminding me how to paddle correctly: short, quick strokes, not big, long drawnout strokes. I’ve got that form down now, but I still can’t keep up with them.

For people who want to give SUP a try, I recommend they take a beginner’s lesson. There are several great surf shops in Dana Point—Hobie, Killer Dana, Girl in the Curl, Keli’s Outrigger and Infinity.

Employees in those shops are more than willing to help. Rent a board and take a lesson.

On July 4, I introduced my partner Greta’s daughter, Tammi Bell, 54, and her husband, Stephen, 51, of Honolulu, to SUP. They both were up and paddling in minutes and did great.

As the popularity of SUP grows, Dana Point Harbor, with its calm waters, is going to become a bit more crowded with seniors, retirees and lots of women taking up the sport. The harbor and ocean are for everyone including casual swimmers, surfers, boaters, kayakers, fishermen, and now SUP folks. You can’t blame them; it’s a great place to be outdoors, and the parking is free.

The Next Singles Age 50+ Meet and Greet will be at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, Dana Point, Thursday, July 30, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Carl the Disc Jockey will spin the oldies. For information: 949.248.9008. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

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WEEKEND HOUSEKEEPER Las responsabilidades incluyen: servicios de limpieza, baños, pisos de casa club, trapear, aspirar... ventanas, basura. Sábado y domingo 7:00-3:30 aplique en persona. Apply in person. Tijeras Creek Golf Club, 29082 Tijeras Creek, Rancho Santa Margarita.

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Soldiering On A 24-hour lacrosse game at Dana Hills High School looks to give back to wounded warriors, veterans and active-duty soldiers

BY EVAN DA SILVA, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

erving in the armed forces is a daily, 24-hour commitment of sacrifice, requiring around-the-clock diligence.

With that in mind, the West Coast lacrosse community wanted to honor that commitment in the same manner.

Shootout For Soldiers, a 24-hour lacrosse game benefitting wounded American military members, veterans and those still on active duty, will hold its first-ever California event at Dana Hills High School on July 31. All proceeds will be going to the Wounded Warrior Foundation, Army Ranger Lead The Way, Semper Fi Fund and the Gary Sinise Foundation.

“The whole point of this event is to bring the lacrosse and general community together,” said Chris Iltis, the California event’s coordinator and Dana Hills head boys lacrosse coach. “It’s not meant to be a competition between the two (teams), but instead it’s all of us going into battlemode to show the tremendous amount of respect we have for the military.”

Hundreds of players ranging in age, from youth to adult, will play 24 continuous, one-hour matches at Dana Hills High School from 6 p.m. on July 31 to 6 p.m.

Aug. 1. Iltis is expecting roughly 48 high school and club teams from all across California, including a number from Arizona and Nevada, to participate.

He explained that, like other Shootout for Soldier events held across America this year, multiple military veteran teams will be participating. Iltis hopes to field several Navy vs. Army/Marine games for fun rivalry matches. Local Southern California high schools will also be wellrepresented. Members of the Dana Hills, San Clemente High School, St. Margret’s Episcopal teams and many other programs will be attending, inducing a number of U.S. Lacrosse Southern Section Playoff rematches from last year.

The idea for Shootout for Soldiers came together in 2012, when a group of high school students from the Boy’s Latin School of Maryland, led by founder Tyler Steinhardt, sought a way to support wounded veterans.

Steinhardt and the event founders, having a passion for the sport and taking The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2015

(L to R): Ryan Patrick, Dylan Iltis, Grant Shiba and Chris Iltis are four of the many local lacrosse players who will take the field at the inaugural West Coast Shootout for Soldiers 24-hour event at Dana Hills High School that begins July 31. Photo: Evan Da Silva

notice of the thriving lacrosse community expected the shootout to find roots in. in Baltimore, thought the idea of a 24-hour “I never would have thought that’d we’d fundraising game seemed a perfect platmake it that far out west,” Steinhardt said. form to raise money.

“The outreach from the folks in the OrIn it its three-year history, the event has ange County area was just overwhelming. raised more than $700,000, hosted a numThat’s what made it clear that we really ber of high-profile spectators, including wanted to go out there.”

Baltimore Ravens head coach John HarAfter searching for venues between Los baugh and had a number of Major League Angeles and San Diego, event manager Lacrosse stars, Stephanie Holland most notably Paul came across Dana Rabil and Harry Hills High School, Jacobs, participate with the help of in games.

Iltis, and instantly “It’s been absofell in love with the lutely incredible,” city.

Steinhardt said.

“She was just so “The first year confident in the we had no idea location because what the turnout it was right on the would be. Our ocean,” Steinhardt first-year goal was said. “That just (to raise) $10,000 got everyone else and it turned out jazzed to play there to be 10 times that. as well. When she Every year since first saw it, it took A veteran and player embrace at the 2014 Shootout For we’ve increased her five minutes to Soldiers event in Maryland. Photo: Andrew Pope our expectation decide.” and goals and every single time the comMusic, food, equipment vendors and munity and the outreach really goes above Under Armor, who is sponsoring the event and beyond.” and building a popup store on site, will all All funds raised come from team fees and be staples for attendees to enjoy. Event donations. The events are free to attend. coordinators are also working to get their This year’s events spanned four differhands on a number of armored vehicles, ent cities across the country including: including tanks, allowing spectators to get Baltimore, Boston, Columbus, Long Island a closer look. The real focus of the day, and New York. Dana Point will be the fi fth however, will be active duty members and and final installment of the event this year. veterans of the armed forces who will be Steinhardt admits that The Golden State honored and sitting along the sidelines, enwas the least likely place he would have gaging with the players and taking it all in.

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Iltis himself has seen numerous examples of former lacrosse players pursuing military careers, mainly because he sees an overlap in disciplines.

“Lacrosse and the armed forces share a lot more commonalities than people realize,” Iltis said. “There’s so many specialist positions in lacrosse, just like the military, where if not everyone is doing their job the whole group fails. They both put on protective gear and go into battle, and the lacrosse stick is an extension of the athlete just like a weapon is for a soldier. It’s used for both offense and self-defense.”

Will Patton, a Temecula resident and Veteran U.S. Army Specialist E4, will be working the event while watching two of his three sons participate in the games.

Tevin Patton and Weston Chanthapannha, Will Patton’s two younger sons, will play with the U11 OC Wave and Great Oak High School squad, respectively. Patton’s eldest son, Trevor, holds the same rank as his father in the Army and is currently on active duty in Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Will Patton sees Shootout For Soldiers as a great way to connect the military and general community together and to give back to those who deserve it most.

“I think that this event gives so much back,” Will Patton said, “I’m doing everything I can to grab teams and players. My kids have stepped up, too. They want to be there for Trevor and the rest of the soldiers as well.”

To register a team, look for volunteer opportunities or to learn more about Shootout For Soldiers, visit www.shootoutforsoldiers.com or find them on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com