August 28, 2015

Thousands Attend 15th Annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

SJC LIVING/PAGE 22

FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

AUGUST 28-SEPTEMBER 10, 2015 • VOLUME 13, ISSUE 16

2015 High School Football Preview Area teams reload for another season on the gridiron S P E C I A L P U L LO U T

L to R: Tim Newman, Patrick O’Brien, Jared Aviles, Nathan Carlson and Zac Oblea will lead the San Juan Hills High School football team in 2015. Photo: Steve Breazeale

City Hires Interim City Manager, Additional Consulting Firm EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

San Juan Capistrano Skatepark Site Approved EYE ON SJC/PAGE 8

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Meet Grom of the Week: Patrick O’Connor of San Juan Capistrano SPORTS/PAGE 26

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EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Contractors Gather for SONGS Tear-Down Bid

Five things San Juan should know this week City Hires Interim City Manager, Additional Consulting Firm THE LATEST: Outgoing City Manager Karen Brust was honored with a proclamation for her four years of dedication at the Aug. 18 San Juan Capistrano City Council meeting. Mayor Derek Reeve presented Brust’s accomplishments, including “more than doubling the city’s general fund reserves and nearly eliminating the city’s $8.2 million water enterprise fund deficit.”

“None of the things that we accomplish can be accomplished without an effective city manager, and Karen has certainly been that for our residents over the past four years,” Reeve said.

Following Brust’s farewell, council members voted to hire Keith Till as interim city manager with a start date of Sept. 1, following Brust’s last day on Aug. 31. Till has served as the city of Santee’s city manager for the past 14 years, and has been filling in as San Juan’s interim city manager since July 1. Till’s base salary is $16,000 per month, which will be offset by “benefit savings from vacant positions in the city manager department,” according to the agenda report.

WHAT’S NEXT: In a separate item, the council considered proposals from three firms for consulting services to “facilitate alignment of the city manager selection process with the council’s long-range goals.” The council has already retained Ralph Andersen and Associates as an executive search firm to assist in recruiting a city manager, but the majority of council members felt that an additional workshop is needed to aid in the selection of a new city manager.

Management Partners submitted a $3,000 proposal for 15 hours of work, Mathis Consulting Group proposed 18 hours of work for $6,000 plus expenses, and Quadrant Law Group pitched 35 hours of work for a $12,000 fee plus expenses.

The cost for an additional firm will come from the general fund reserve, which currently stands at 44.7 percent according to the report.

The council majority voted in favor of Quadrant Law Group’s proposal, with former Orange County supervisor candidate Robert Ming at its helm. Ming is a former

Doug Bauder (left), SCE vice president of operational services and chief procurement officer, spoke on Monday with prospective subcontractors for SONGS deconstruction. Photo: Eric Heinz

Laguna Niguel city councilman and mayor, and was endorsed by Reeve during his campaign for supervisor.

Councilman Sam Allevato opposed the contract due to concerns including the transparency of the request for proposal process. Allevato said a contract with Quadrant Law Group originally appeared as a consent calendar item before becoming an action item, and he felt Ming was given an unfair head start by the council.

City Attorney Jeff Ballinger confirmed that there was no legal reason the council could not vote on the contract, adding that for contracts under the “personal services” category, the City Council is not required to select the lowest bid. The contract with Quadrant Law Group was approved 4-1 with Allevato dissenting.—Allison Jarrell

Rancho Mission Viejo’s Esencia Opens Sept. 20 THE LATEST: Rancho Mission Viejo’s newest community, Esencia, will have a public grand opening on Sunday, Sept. 20.

The community, which will house about 3,000 residents on 890 acres of land, will have 42 model homes available to tour on Sept. 20 as well as recreational amenities. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors will be provided with free shuttles to the model homes for Esencia’s 12 different neighborhoods, with homes currently priced upwards of $400,000 to over $1 million.

Described as a “hillside village,” the Esencia community includes amenities such as a community garden, an outdoor courtyard for gardening classes, a dog park and a trail system. The construction of Esencia is the next phase of The Rancho Mission Viejo Company’s land development, following the communities

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28–September 10, 2015

of Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita, Las Flores and the 690acre village of Sendero.

WHAT’S NEXT: Esencia’s K-8 school campus is anticipated to open Fall 2018 and will be part of the Capistrano Unified School District.

For more information, visit www.ranchomissionviejo.com.—AJ

CUSD Invites Public to Discuss Facility Needs on Committee THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District is inviting community members to join a committee tasked with examining facility needs and funding challenges facing the district.

“The committee will also address school funding challenges, public information and community opinions as well as recommendation to the CUSD trustees,” a district press release read.

The community committee will meet on Thursdays for four weeks beginning Oct. 15 and concluding on Nov. 5. The meetings will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will take place at the district office, located at 33122 Valle Road in San Juan Capistrano.

CUSD asks that volunteers participate in all four meetings.

WHAT’S NEXT: Those interested in participating can sign up at capousd. ca.schoolloop.com, email communitycommittee@capousd.org or mail a notice of interest to the district at 33122 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. Potential volunteers are asked to submit their name, phone number and email address no later than 5 p.m. Sept. 30.—AJ

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THE LATEST: Southern California Edison, the majority owner of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, hosted a networking session with subcontractors on Monday at Laguna Cliffs Marriott in Dana Point.

More than 100 subcontractors arrived at the Marriot to meet with the three main contracting companies that have been selected by SCE for the deconstruction of the nuclear power plant.

Many of the subcontractors at the event spoke about their experience in environmental reclamation and transportation of materials.

Bechtel-Westinghouse, Q Energy Solutions and AECOM are the three main contractors selected for the deconstruction process that have teamed up with other larger contractors.

One subcontractor, Bob Lawrence, president and CEO of MLM & Associates Engineering in Laguna Hills, has conducted multiyear water quality inspections, including projects with LAX and adjacent areas in regard to environmental aspects.

As a small business owner, Lawrence said the competition for the project is “awesome.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The approval of the bid for the deconstruction portion of SONGS is expected to take place sometime in “the first quarter” of 2016. The bid process began Aug. 3. The duration of the deconstruction is expected to take eight to 10 years.—Eric Heinz

CERT Training Set to Begin Sept. 16 THE LATEST: San Juan Capistrano’s Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, is hosting a free six-week course for residents age 16 and older.

CERT training aims to teach participants about the importance of disaster preparedness. Topics include fire safety, basic first aid, search and rescue methods, disaster psychology, team organization, terrorism and disaster simulation.

The next six-week course begins Wednesday, Sept. 16. Classes are held 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., culminating in a Saturday morning simulated earthquake disaster drill. CERT members receive about 20 hours of initial training. Sessions are conducted two times each year in September and February.

WHAT’S NEXT: For more information, call 949.234.4565, email mcantor@sanjuancapistrano.org, or see www.sanjuancapistrano. org/cert.—AJ www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY ALLISON JARRELL

Mission San Juan Capistrano Looking for Docents Docents make California history come alive for more than 500,000 school children and adults each year at Mission San Juan Capistrano. If you love history, have a natural curiosity, enjoy people and like sharing with others, this may be a volunteer position for you. Mission volunteers receive discounts, free admission and the opportunity to be a part of California Historic Landmark No. 200.

The Mission SJC Docent Society will conduct training classes for new docents on Sept. 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

For more information, call Pat March at 949.234.1322 or email pmarch@missionsjc.com. The Mission is located at 26801 Ortega Highway in San Juan Capistrano.

For more information, visit www.missionsjc.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 Saturday, Sept. 12 beginning at noon at the Historic Town Center Park. The day includes a homemade pot luck lunch for the homeless in attendance followed by 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.

Shea Center BBQ & Family Faire Set for Sept. 26 The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center’s 37th annual BBQ & Family Faire will take on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 4 p.m.

Tickets are now on sale for the event, which brings in upward of 1,500 people and is the largest fundraiser of the year for the Shea Center. All proceeds go directly to the center’s therapeutic riding programs for children and adults with special needs. Last year the event raised more than $900,000.

The evening includes demonstrations featuring Shea Center riders, familyfriendly activities such as country faire games and barn tours, an opportunity drawing, and a 200-item silent auction and live auction emceed by Kent French of the Anaheim Ducks. Following the barbecue dinner, the “Parade of Stars” featuring Shea Center riders will take place and guests can enjoy dancing to live music

TUESDAY, SEPT. 1

City Council, Housing Authority and Successor Agency Meeting

Young attendees of J.F. Shea Therapeutic Center’s annual BBQ & Family Faire strike a pose Sept. 27.

Photo: Brian Park

performed by country band Swingshift.

Dinner will be provided by Montage Laguna Beach.

Gates open at 4 p.m., opening ceremonies and Shea rider demonstrations begin at 6 p.m. and the barbecue dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. General admission is $55 for adults and $30 for seniors 55 and over, children 13 and under and persons with disabilities. Family packages for two adults and two kids cost $155. Tickets include dinner, dessert, one non-alcoholic beverage and family-style seating. Physical tickets will not be mailed. Western attire is encouraged.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 949.240.8441, ext. 135 or visit www.sheacenter.org. The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center is located at 26284 Oso Road in San Juan Capistrano.

SJC Greek Festival Returns Sept. 25-27 Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church is set to host the annual San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival on Friday, Sept. 25, Saturday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Sept. 27. The free weekend-long event invites the public to celebrate all aspects of Greek culture and cuisine—from dancing and live Greek music to wine tasting, Greek pastries and Byzantine art.

Guests will have the opportunity to try a range of savory and sweet Greek treats, including gyros, lamb chops, souvlaki, Greek salad and pastries like baklava made with old family recipes.

Al fresco dining will be accompanied by Greek wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks and traditional Greek coffee and iced coffee frappe. A taverna will also be set up with big screen televisions, Greek music and games like tavli and backgammon.

Live Greek music will be performed

by Takis Kokotas and Alex Galas on the bouzouki—a Greek instrument similar to the mandolin. For those not familiar with Greek dance, lessons will be offered. The Saint Basil dance troupe will also perform traditional dances from different areas of Greece.

A tour of the church will also be offered, including a presentation by Father Michael Courey, who will unveil and discuss two Byzantine icons to be used at St. Basil that were featured at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles. Guests can also peruse a Greek bazaar with an array of specialty items.

The festival is open on Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission and parking are free. St. Basil is located at 27129 Calle Arroyo. For more information, visit www.sjcgreekfest. org.

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, SEPT. 2

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.

Trails & Equestrian Commission Meeting

6 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Trails & Equestrian Commission meets at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. Log on to www.sanjuancapistrano.org to see the body’s agenda.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 4

Coffee Chat

8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Mission Grill, 31721 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 8

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.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 9

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, SEPT. 11

Next issue of The Dispatch publishes The Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church youth dance team performs a traditional dance. Photo: Brian Park

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28-September 10, 2015

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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, August 16 ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Del Obispo Street, 31800 Block (8:47 p.m.) Police called in Secret Service after a woman at a register was trying to pay with a fake $20 bill.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE La Zanja Street, 26500 Block (5:19 p.m.) A man in his 20s with a shaved head, white tank top and black pants was brandishing a screwdriver as a weapon. The caller who reported him did not speak English well but thought the man had hurt himself with the screwdriver. A 35-year-old man was reportedly stabbed in the back around the same time and three subjects were seen leaving his area on foot.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Paseo Santa Clara/Avenida De La Vista (5:32 a.m.) A possibly drunken woman threw a cigarette at the caller, who was in a car. The woman was riding her bike with a boom box and was confronting the caller for the second day in a row.

Saturday, August 15 DISTURBANCE Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (11:56 p.m.) A caller reported hearing a woman yelling and furniture being thrown.

Police responded to the scene, transported the woman to Kaiser Permanente in Irvine and arrested an 82-year-old man. The man was taken to the Central Mens Jail and released three days later.

PATROL CHECK Doheny Park Road/Camino Capistrano (2:36 p.m.) Police conducted a patrol check for a man who was threatening to kill his therapist.

CITIZEN ASSIST Paseo Adelanto, 32500 Block (12:12 p.m.) A man flagged down an officer and said another man was “putting things in his mind and body.” The subject demanded a report be filed, began speaking in Spanish and said the other man was putting computers in his head.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Paseo Espada, 27200 Block (4:06 p.m.)

Orange County Fire Authority responded to a woman with possible heat exhaustion.

She was seen in front of a door shaking and sweating. The woman would not talk to the caller and it was believed she might have been under the influence of illegal drugs.

WELFARE CHECK Rancho Viejo Road/Golf Club Drive (1:01 a.m.) A drunken man called police, mumbling that he needed a deputy at the nearest police station to meet him in San Juan. He would not tell operators what his emergency was, but said that he was going to call back about the nature of his emergency at a later time.

CITIZEN ASSIST Paseao Carolina, 32200 Block (3:40 p.m.) A caller wanted to file a police report after their roommate’s friend opened the door to the residence and walked in unannounced.

PATROL CHECK Alipaz Street, 32700 Block (12:21 a.m.) A woman told police someone had been pounding on her back door. Two previous calls from the area reported the same activity.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino Capistrano, 31800 Block (3 p.m.)

Police responded to reports of a man and woman peeking out the window of a vacant business. Officers found signs of trespassing including clothes and tampering with the building’s electricity and wiring.

Saturday, August 14

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Camino Del Avion, 25900 Block (10:20 a.m.) Police received a report from a city worker about a bloody trash bag found in a nearby park. Upon searching the bag, authorities found it had been filled with dead fish.

911 HANGUP-WIRLESS Alipaz Street/Camino Del Avion (7:06 a.m.) Numerous 911 calls were received with women talking in the background.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Rancho Viejo/Junipero Serra Road (6:29 a.m.) Police conducted a patrol check for a man on his knees under a pedestrian bridge.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino Las Ramblas, 34000 Block (11:42 p.m.) Police received a call from a man who said his caretaker possessed “magical powers” and that he was afraid to stay there now that he knows about them.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Cook Lane, 32100 Block (9:58 p.m.) A man was very concerned that someone had knocked on his door. He refused to respond to the knocks and couldn’t see the person, but believed they were still there.

DISTURBANCE Via Madrina, 27700 Block (5:52 p.m.) A girl called police crying and saying she needed help because her grandma was “going crazy.” The line then disconnected. The grandmother spoke to police about two minutes later and told them she was in an argument with her 12-year-old granddaughter over brushing her teeth.

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28–September 10, 2015

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EYE ON SJC

San Juan Capistrano Skatepark Site Approved

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

F

or years, skateboarders in San Juan Capistrano have longed for their own place to skate, and last Tuesday that dream moved much closer to becoming reality.

The San Juan Capistrano City Council voted unanimously at its Aug. 11 meeting to approve a site for a 20,000-square-foot skatepark at the northwest end of the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park, located near the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley, Del Obispo Elementary and Marco Forster Middle School.

While movements for a skatepark in both San Juan and Dana Point initially began just short of a decade ago, over the last several months a group called Capistrano Grind has been working tirelessly with San Juan nonprofit Great Opportunities to increase outreach, host a design workshop and present options for a San Juan skatepark to the city’s Youth Advisory Board and Parks, Recreation, Senior and Youth Services Commission. On July 20, the latter commission approved the group’s proposal for the skatepark, so long as it would not interfere with the park’s current sports fields.

Following council approval of the site, Great Opportunities co-founder and skatepark advocate Eric Groos said he wants to see the momentum continue throughout the fundraising and design process.

“We’ve been here before,” Groos said of previous attempts to get a skatepark in town.

“I think we need to keep moving forward.

We can’t stop. We’re showing the kids that engagement takes first, second and third applications sometimes to make it stick.”

Dana Point resident Brandon Phillips, founder of the “Skatepark of Dana Point” group, attended Tuesday night’s meeting in San Juan. He urged the council to invest in the area’s youth by approving the park’s location while maximizing “usage, safety and the financial income” of the park.

Phillips, who has worked in the skate industry and is currently a surf and skateboard coach, said in an interview that Dana Point officials “realize the need” for a skatepark but are “very unwilling to open up property” in Dana Point. Over the years, Phillips said he’s seen the youth of Dana Point “so let down by the city that they stopped writing letters and showing up to City Council meetings.” He believes the skaters in Dana Point will be “ecstatic”

Skaters take to the City Hall parking lot following last Tuesday’s City Council approval of a skatepark site. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Clockwise from top left: Young skaters sketch out ideas for a skatepark design during a summer workshop held at the Mission Grill; Residents, organizers and skaters applaud the unanimous decision of the San Juan Capistrano City Council to approve the skatepark location at the northwest end of the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park.

Capistrano Grind organizer Nathan Banda and Aaron Spohn present a potential skatepark location and design to City Council last Tuesday. Photos: Allison Jarrell

about the next step for the San Juan park.

“The skate population is really going to thrive,” Phillips said. “We’re in such a talent-rich community already—the sky’s the limit for them.”

Capistrano Grind has secured financial backing from local sponsors and is applying to become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The latest sponsor to join the group is San Clemente’s Sheckler Foundation, founded by pro skater Ryan Sheckler. In order to reach their $1 million goal to design and construct the park, Capistrano Grind organizer Nathan Banda said they’ll apply for a

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28–September 10, 2015

private grant from the Tony Hawk Foundation in June and ask for in-kind donations from the community, in addition to other fundraising events such as placing coin canisters in local businesses and recycling cans. The group has also created an online Indiegogo fundraising campaign.

“We’re doing everything we can,” Banda said, “one penny at a time.”

While the city of Dana Point has previously shown some interest in the project, Banda told San Juan city officials in July that the group will raise the money “with or without Dana Point.” In a recent interview,

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Dana Point City Manager Doug Chotkevys said city officials have not committed to contributing financially to the skatepark because they have not yet been approached by the city of San Juan Capistrano.

For more information and updates, follow Capistrano Grind Skate Park on Facebook, visit www.capistranogrindskatepark. org or call 949.545.8860. Questions can be emailed to nathan@capistranogrindskatepark.org. To support the group’s ongoing online fundraiser, visit: www.indiegogo. com/projects/capistrano-grind-skatepark#/story. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Hundreds Attend Two-Day Mobile Home Rent Hearing Hearing officer says decision on legality of rent hike may be reached by first week of September

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

C

ity Hall filled to the brim with residents from the area—many from mobile home parks—during the city of San Juan Capistrano’s two-day hearing Aug. 17 and 18. Those in attendance heard arguments for and against a mobile home rent increase that will double rent for some residents living in San Juan’s El Nido Mobile Estates beginning Sept. 1.

After filing a petition to the city opposing the rent increase, a group of residents living in El Nido Mobile Estates were given the opportunity to take the issue up with their landlord, who is raising rent by $641 across the board despite the city’s rent control ordinance for mobile homes.

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.

Attorney Robert Coldren, representing El Nido owner Richard Worley, said in a May interview with The Dispatch that 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. He reiterated that statement at last week’s hearing.

“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,” he said.

Coldren said in May that Worley’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.”

At last week’s hearing, attorney Michael Roush, the City Council-appointed hearing officer, announced that Coldren had the burden of proving the rent hike is admissible. Coldren claims that even with the $641 rent increase, Worley isn’t receiving a fair market return on his property.

Above: Local residents filled City Council chambers last Monday and Tuesday for the city’s El Nido Mobile Home Estates rent increase hearing. Right: Attorney Robert Coldren, representing El Nido owner Richard Worley, listens to the residents’ attorney Bruce Stanton during last week’s hearing. Photos: Allison Jarrell

Expert witnesses were cross-examined by both Coldren and the residents’ attorney Bruce Stanton last Monday and most of Tuesday, going back and forth over whether Worley is receiving a “fair and reasonable return” on his investment with or without the increase.

After hearing both sides, Roush is now tasked with determining whether the rent hike exceeds the maximum allowable increase, and then making a recommendation to the city’s three-person Housing Advisory Committee and to the City Council.

Roush said his intent is to have a decision “written by no later than the first week in September.” Both the advisory committee and the City Council will consider Roush’s decision and recommendation before a final decision is made concerning the rent increase.

The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Sept. 1—the same day the rent hike takes effect.

“We are sort of in limbo at the moment, waiting for some type of an advisement that the hearing officer has submitted his report to the city of San Juan Capistrano

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28-September 10, 2015

Housing Advisory Committee,” El Nido resident Tom Perrin wrote in an email Wednesday.

Perrin said the committee may take days or possibly weeks to study Roush’s report, but with the Sept. 1 rent increase quickly approaching, the residents may pursue a legal injunction of some kind.

“We have been working with our attorney with regards to this matter, but we are just not sure what options may be open to us,” Perrin wrote. “Obviously, some type of measure that might put this matter into

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abeyance until a decision is made by the City Council would seem to be the most practical solution.”

“We do have many senior citizens living in the park on fixed incomes, and this pending increase far exceeds their financial wherewithal,” Perrin continued. “We are now looking outside the park, trying to find some type of emergency funding in the event that the additional rent will have to be (paid) on Sept. 1. So far the funds are limited, but we will do whatever we can to try to help our neighbors.” CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: By Mark Loper

Will Animals Reclaim the Planet?

A humorous look at the antics—or devious plotting—of South Orange County’s wildlife

W

e need to be careful, because we are surrounded by life forms that want to do us harm. Well, actually these life forms are animals, birds and fish. (I don’t want you thinking other life forms—like Martians, Klingons or reality stars).

I issue this warning because a recent television series, “Zoo,” may be a harbinger of what will befall us. The show purports that the animal kingdom has finally had enough and, instead of all moving to South Dakota, they turn on the human race. And it’s not just the obvious lions and bears, but also the next door neighbor’s Lhasa Apso.

It’s all fiction, of course, except for this unsettling fact: I’ve seen examples of this very kind of animal rebellion recently in South Orange County. It’s all been pretty passive so far, no torn jugulars or dismemberment, but only because they don’t have their act together … yet.

We have a bird feeder in our backyard that gets all kinds of birds feeding, drinking and playing water pong. Two weeks ago, late at night, I turn on the outside lights for no obvious reason and lo and behold, the bird feeder is being ransacked by three large rats! They never even flinched, but looked at me, cheeks bulging, as if to say, “Hit the lights, pal, you’re hurting our eyes.”

The rat house came down the next day, but since then, we’ve seen these same three rats (I know they’re the same rats because of their tattoos) in the yard and

they’ve become very brazen. They don’t run when I shout at them, they smirk. So yes, I’ve placed traps but have yet to find success. (There was a Post-it left by one Mark Loper trap that simply read, “Nice try. We have rabies.”)

My wife no longer acknowledges we have a backyard.

Last week (early morning) I pick up the newspaper in the driveway, look up, and staring at me is a coyote. I backed up slowly saying, “nice coyote, nice coyote” and he never moved. He just stared, as if wondering if I’d be worth the trouble.

I just stared back, wondering if I could beat a coyote with the LA Times.

Three days ago I was (stealthily) checking traps in the backyard and looking over my shoulder when suddenly a shadow swooped over my path and I fell to the ground. Flying across the yard was a bird, a plane, no, it was Super … well, of course it wasn’t. The wing span of this creature was so enormous that, at first, I thought it was a California condor.

But then I realized with the condor being near extinction, this wasn’t likely. I quickly identified it as a red-tailed hawk looking to elevate its game from mice to middle-aged men. And just as quickly I ran inside.

So as I write this, with all doors and windows securely locked, I wonder if this insurrection is the start of something

Letters to the Editor

has moved to five schools in the last few years and finally found a home at Crown Valley. It’s hard enough having a child with special needs—imagine the difficulty of transitioning a special needs child from school to school each year.

I met with a member of the district and I was informed that Community Roots has specific requirements for their relocation including having a library, a multipurpose room and computer lab. The next thing the district looks at for relocation is the enrollment of a school. The district said that Crown Valley was under-enrolled at 261 students; however, they did not include the large population of special needs children that drives up our enrollment to over 300 children. We pointed this out to them; however, they said they only counted the “general population.”

Crown Valley Elementary School is a unique school that integrates special needs children with its general population

CROWN VALLEY ELEMENTARY SHOULD NOT BECOME A CHARTER SCHOOL SITE —Samantha Willard, Laguna Niguel I recently read your article “Del Obispo Elementary Considered for Charter School Site” in (The Capistrano Dispatch, Aug. 14-27). I am a parent at Crown Valley Elementary School and we are also facing the closing of our campus for the relocation of Community Roots Academy. Many of the parents are very upset about this possible closure. Our school has a large population of special needs children who have been moved from school to school because of program closures. One parent

sinister. Is this now life imitating art? Is this Animal Farm on steroids? I read the paper (when I’m not threatening coyotes with it) and see where sharks are biting people on both coasts with choreographed regularity. First North Carolina, then Huntington Beach. Then back to North Carolina. A little bump here, a nibble there, maybe a chomp.

And what about these cute raccoons and their ominous, black masks?

Shouldn’t we be suspicious of anyone wearing a black mask? (Well, except for the Lone Ranger.) Are these raccoons hiding something or is this far bigger than just a disguise?

Of course, I’m not suggesting we overreact and do anything rash, but these Gary Larson-like anomalies should be recognized and definitely addressed.

And I would certainly like to help.

Except I’ll be in South Dakota.

Mark Loper has been a San Juan Capistrano resident for over 30 years and has written for several kinds of media.

His writing has been scorned and rejected countless times but, while hanging onto a wisp of self-esteem, he’s managed to have the occasional scribbling published in book form, in columns, online, on TV and as advertising. He has yet to tweet. 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@the capistranodispatch.com

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The Capistrano Dispatch August 28-September 10, 2015

Page 10

of kids. We are a family—all of us—and I am so disappointed that the district not only does not see us as one, but has the nerve to uproot these kids who struggle enough with their day-to-day lives. Many of the parents with special needs children struggle finding a school that can support their child’s needs because the district constantly closes programs and moves them around.

Crown Valley Elementary School is a unique gem in Laguna Niguel that has been open for 50 years this year. Some of our children are the second generation to attend Crown Valley and we do not want to see this tradition end because of the disregard of our special needs children and an oversight by the district.

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

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

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 13, Issue 16. 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.

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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.

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2015 DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

SAN JUAN HILLS

BY STEVE BREAZEALE

Maintaining intensity key for Stallions in claiming consecutive playoff berth Patrick O’Brien still wears the same wristband he wore at the tail end of last season.

Even as the training camp practices wind down and the season opener creeps into his view, the band remains a constant fixture on the wrist of the San Juan Hills football team’s senior quarterback.

O’Brien said the team still wears the bands, not wanting to forget the experience they all earned after their first year in the South Coast League and an appearance in the CIF-SS West Valley Division playoffs.

The program’s “Ride for the Brand” motto is on one side of the wristband and on the other, in all caps, reads the word “FINISH”.

The Stallions placed fourth in the competitive South Coast League last season and, despite their 4-6 regular season record, put together a strong enough strength of schedule resume to punch their ticket to the playoffs.

The team was competitive throughout the year, but saw a slight dip in their intensity at the end of South Coast League games. San Juan Hills watched as El Toro, Mission Viejo and Tesoro pulled away in the second half and held on for victories. The wristbands the Stallions’ players wear remind them of what it will take to stay in the playoff hunt.

“It’s more than just 24 minutes, it’s 48 (minutes),” O’Brien said. “We have a lot more guys that know how to play a full 48 minutes now and I feel like it’s going to be a different story this year.”

San Juan Hills will return 11 players who now know what it takes to succeed in one of the top public school leagues in the county.

O’Brien, a Nebraska commit, will lead an offense that lost its starting running back to graduation but returns top receiver, Jacob Huff. O’Brien and Huff, a junior, connected for 64 receptions, 746 yards and six touchdowns in 2014. The Stallions running back has yet to emerge, but head coach Aaron Flowers said a committee of Devin Wegis, Brock Cazel, Cole Suscheck and Anthony Aguayo are all in the mix to get touches.

Wegis has the most experience of the group, having played in five games last season.

Flowers said the team’s offensive line, which includes seniors Nathan Carlson, Tommy Gaisford, Jared Aviles and Zac Oblea will have to play well, especially against the talented defensive fronts they will face in league.

O’Brien spent the offseason honing his craft and blazing the recruiting trail. The senior quickly became one of the top rising quarterback prospects in the county after

Dispatch Football Preview | Page 3

San Juan Hills’ Cole Suscheck runs through a drill during an offseason practice. Photo: Steve Breazeale

SCHEDULE

San Juan Hills senior quarterback Patrick O’Brien will be key to the Stallions’ success in 2015.

Photo: Steve Breazeale a standout 7-on-7 passing league season.

O’Brien was also invited to compete in the prestigious Elite 11 quarterback passing competition, where he advanced to the penultimate stage of 18 players.

O’Brien now has a year of starting varsity experience under his belt and spent the summer competing against the nation’s best prep prospects. Flowers, a former standout signal-caller himself, believes his quarterback has refined his skill set enough to have another successful season.

“With all of the exposure (O’Brien) has received, two different kinds of coaching, he’s really just come to understand the offensive and defensive side of what everyone is trying to do,” Flowers said. “You definitely feel more comfortable with him when you call a play that it’s going to get executed.”

On defense the Stallions will be anchored

by senior linebacker Tim Newman and junior defensive lineman JJ Glass, two playmakers who had big 2014 seasons.

Newman was the team’s leading tackler last year, racking up 81 total tackles and eight sacks, at defensive end. The 6-foot-2inch senior was moved off the line to take over at middle linebacker this year. Flowers plans on using Newman, who weighs 230 pounds, at defensive line at times and will deploy him on offense at tight end.

As a sophomore, Glass broke through for 50 tackles and two sacks. The junior will play nose guard this season and has been pegged by Flowers and his teammates as a player to watch.

Despite Glass’ presence on the line, the Stallions’ defensive front and defensive back depth charts are relatively inexperienced.

“Defensive line and at defensive back is

Aug. 28 vs. San Clemente @ SJHHS, 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 vs. Canyon @ El Modena High, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. Capistrano Valley @ SJHHS, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 vs. Marina @ Westmintster High, 7 p.m.

Sept. 25 vs. Los Alamitos @ SJHHS, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 vs. Beckman @ Beckman High, 7 p.m. *Oct. 16 vs. El Toro @ ETHS, 7 p.m. *Oct. 23 vs. Mission Viejo @ SJHHS, 7 p.m. *Oct. 30 vs. Dana Hills @SJHHS, 7 p.m. *Nov. 6 vs. Tesoro @ THS, 7 p.m. *—denotes league game where we need guys to step up. Guys who have maybe not played that much at the varsity level will need to step up and make plays for us,” Flowers said.

The Stallions’ schedule remains relatively intact, with the exception of adding 2014 CIF-SS Southwest Division runner-up San Clemente for the season opener on Aug. 28.

Other top nonleague games to watch will be a rivalry match against the Sea View League’s Capistrano Valley on Sept. 11 and a home game against Los Alamitos on Sept. 25.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

2015 DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

JSERRA CATHOLIC

BY STEVE BREAZEALE

Lions rebuild following breakout season Following the program’s most successful season to-date, the JSerra football team is faced with the difficult task of reloading for another playoff run.

The Lions finally had the breakout season head coach Jim Hartigan envisioned when he stepped into the role back in 2007. Led by a balanced team filled with experienced seniors, the Lions defeated Santa Margarita, Mater Dei, Orange Lutheran and Servite en route to a 4-1 record and a second-place finish in the Trinity League, one of the toughest prep football leagues in the state. JSerra even won their first-ever playoff game.

There was a lot of offseason movement on the Lions’ roster, which included some high-profile transfers.

JSerra lost all-league running back Edward Vander and all-league receiver Isaiah Diego-Williams when the two transferred to Paramount and Serra of Gardena, respectively. Several key seniors, like 2014 Trinity league co-MVP Nick Robinson and defensive end D.J. Bailey, graduated.

With all of the offseason movement, Hartigan and his team have adopted a “next man up” philosophy. The Lions, who still return several impact players, are meeting the challenge head on.

In order to gauge how tough mentally and physically his team would be this offseason, Hartigan and his staff took the players to boot camp—literally. The Lions participated in a Navy Seal training day that featured being in the water in the wee hours of the morning accompanied with grueling physical exercise.

“Since we were so inexperienced, I really

JSerra’s big and physical offensive line will be a strength in 2015. Photo: Steve Breazeale haven’t seen guys perform under a tremendous amount of pressure in a game-type situation. I thought we might be able to see some guys perform (at Seal training) and we did,” Hartigan said. “We saw some guys step up.”

The experience was not lost on the players, who rallied around each other to get through what some described as their hardest workout day ever.

“That was one of the hardest things of my life. It made us count on one another and push each other through hardships and made us strive to finish,” senior safety Conor

Junior Nick Callen runs the ball during a JSerra football practice. Photo: Steve Breazeale

Dispatch Football Preview | Page 4

O’Brien said.

The Lions’ offense will rally around their big and talented offensive line, which returns Luke Wattenberg and Nick Harris, who are both University of Washington commits.

Wattenberg, a 6-foot-5-inch 275-pound right tackle, is regarded as one of the top lineman in the county. Harris played right tackle last season as a junior but has transitioned to center.

The reason behind Harris’ move to center is the Lions’ quarterback scenario. Junior Riley O’Brien, younger brother of Conor, and sophomore Matthew Robinson are currently

SCHEDULE Aug. 28 vs. Cabrillo @ JSerra, 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 vs. Chino Hills @ CHHS, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. Huntington Beach @ JSerra, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 vs. Hamilton @ JSerra, 7 p.m.

Sept. 25 vs. St. Paul @ SPHS, 7 p.m. *Oct. 9 vs. Servite @ Cerritos College, 7 p.m. *Oct. 16 vs. Santa Margarita @ Saddleback College, 7 p.m. *Oct. 23 vs. St. John Bosco @ Cerritos College, 7 p.m. *Oct. 30 vs. Mater Dei @ Saddleback College, 7 p.m. *Nov. 6 vs. Orange Lutheran @ JSerra, 7 p.m. *—denotes league game vying for the starting quarterback job. The two have yet to start a varsity game and Hartigan moved Harris to center in order to provide the offense with leadership and stability up front.

Hartigan said both Riley O’Brien and Robinson will get playing time in the season opener against Cabrillo on Aug. 28.

Rounding out the rest of the Lions’ offensive line will be senior Shane Avera, junior Zelan Tupuola and rising sophomore Jake Parks.

Two transfers into the program should provide immediate results.

Junior Avery Williams transferred in from St. Francis of La Canada and will be the team’s starting running back. Hartigan said Williams has the ability to put up numbers comparable to Vander’s last year.

On defense, Dana Hills transfer Corey Selenski will join a linebacker unit led by returning senior Kyle Adams, who recorded 64 tackles last season. Selenski, who had 100 tackles as a junior at Dana Hills, and Adams are both hard-hitting linebackers who have the ability to play tight end on offense.

Leading the secondary will be safety Conor O’Brien, who had a breakout junior season that featured 77 tackles and a teamhigh four interceptions.

The Lions’ nonleague schedule remains similar to last season, with the exception of dropping St. Bonaventure for Hamilton in week four. The Lions’ nonleague slate is highlighted by a road game against Chino Hills on Sept. 4, which should serve as a litmus test for the Lions to see where they stack up against tough competition.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

2015 DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

SADDLEBACK VALLEY CHRISTIAN BY STEVE BREAZEALE

Returning depth has Warriors primed to defend league title The Saddleback Valley Christian football team looks positioned to make another deep playoff run, thanks to a large group of returning starters from last year’s squad, which reached the CIF-SS East Valley Division semifinals, suiting up for another run.

Last year was a landmark campaign for the Warriors and then-first-year head coach Brian Pearsall, as the team won 12 games for the first time since 2007 and claimed its eighth consecutive San Joaquin League title.

Seven starters return to both the offensive and defensive side of the ball, although several Warriors will be starting both ways.

Pearsall said this year’s offensive line is the largest in school history and believes his starting five up front are also among the quickest units in the East Valley Division.

Returning seniors Jonathan Bunnel, Miguel Gonzalez, Craig Hill, Luc Audet and Sean Carpenter have played alongside each other for several years and have impressed their coach in training camp.

“They are the hardest working group on our team … At any level of football you can win a lot of games with a good offensive line and I think that the success of our season will have a lot to do with how those big guys up front play,” Pearsall said.

The Warriors return their quarterback from last season, junior Cade Henjum, and will surround him with a dynamic senior running back tandem of David Molina and Dalton Lohman. Molina displayed his offensive versatility last season, rushing for 852 yards and six touchdowns while catching 25 passes for 581 yards and five touchdowns.

Pearsall said Molina will again be a dual threat to score out of the backfield or out on the field running routes. Lohman ran for 234 yards and five touchdowns and will return to his role of racking up tough yards as the team’s up-the-middle rusher.

Henjum had a solid sophomore season under center. After splitting time with former senior Jake Markum, Henjum took control of the offense, throwing for 1,432 yards and completing just over 57 percent of his passes. He also kept turnovers to a minimum, throwing 15 touchdowns to six interceptions.

Henjum also showed off his running ability, carrying the ball 91 times for 384 yards and eight scores. Pearsall, who is also the team’s offensive coordinator, believes Henjum has carried over the success from a strong 7-on-7 passing league season into pads.

Saddleback Valley Christian lost several impact receivers and will rely on junior wideout Savaii Cravens to be one of Henjum’s go-to options. Cravens is the younger brother of Su’a Cravens, a standout threeyear starter for the USC football team.

The Warriors defensive line punished opThe Capistrano Dispatch August 14–27, 2015

Page 3

posing offenses last season and returns two of their strongest players in Bunnel and Hill.

Bunnel and Hill accounted for 50 and 69 tackles last season, respectively, and had a knack for getting to the quarterback. Bunnel recorded a team-high 11.5 sacks and Griffin tallied 8.5 sacks last season.

“I think 20 sacks combined is a goal they (Bunnel and Craig) should achieve with ease. Although I know both those guys can care less about personal stats and care more about doing their job defensively,” Pearsall said. “In practice they are constantly wreaking havoc on our offense.”

In 10 regular season games last year, the Warriors defense held opponents to 14 points or less eight times. In five of those games, Saddleback Valley Christian held their opponents to seven points or less. The defense also returns All-CIF defensive back Marc Audet, the Warriors top lockdown defender.

Molina will also double as a defensive back.

Saddleback Valley Christian dropped three opponents from last year’s schedule and replaced them with Crean Lutheran, out of the larger Academy League, California Military Academy and the Orange Coast League’s Calvary Chapel. The Warriors biggest regular season game will likely be their San Joaquin League opener against Capistrano Valley Christian on Oct. 10. The Eagles threatened the Warriors last season but Saddleback Valley Christian held on for a 14-10 win.

SCHEDULE Sept. 4 vs. Crean Lutheran @ Irvine High, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. Malibu @ Malibu High, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 vs. Garey @ Garey High, 7 p.m.

Sept. 25 vs. California Military Institute @ Tesoro High, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 vs. Calvary Chapel @ San Juan Hills, 7 p.m *Oct 10 vs. Capistrano Valley Christian @ Capo Valley High, 7 p.m. *Oct. 16 vs. Southlands Christian @ Rowland, 7 p.m. *Oct. 24 vs. Fairmont Prep @Yorba Linda High 7 p.m. *Oct. 30 vs. Santa Clarita Christian @ Tesoro, 7 p.m. *Nov. 6 vs. The Webb Schools @ San Juan Hills, 7 p.m. *—denotes league game www.thecapistranodispatch.com

2015 DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CAPISTRANO VALLEY CHRISTIAN BY CONNOR SCHMITT

Eagles searching for breakout year in league play After undergoing many vital changes, it seems Capistrano Valley Christian will no longer tolerate the “little brother” role in 2015.

The small school’s transitioning process began in 2012, when the Eagles’ football program switched from playing 8-man football in the Express League to 11-man football in the San Joaquin League. Since the switch, the Eagles have tallied an overall record of 24-9, accompanied by an impressive 11-3 performance in league play.

However, the team has yet to claim a San Joaquin League championship. Each year they have found themselves with a sole disappointing loss in league play against crosstown rival Saddleback Valley Christian.

Fortunately for this year’s Eagles squad, they welcome both skill and experience back into the starting lineup.

Returning to the wide receiver position is Arkansas State commit Ben Sukut. Last year, he was the go-to receiver and led the team in all-purpose yards, piling up 52 receptions, 12 touchdowns and 791 receiving yards.

The team also returns running back Kci Thompson, who will be called on to run the ball more this year following a pass-happy campaign in 2014. He averaged 6.9 yards per carry last year, rumbling for 850 yards and nine rushing touchdowns along the way.

Sukut and Thompson are known commodities. The biggest question mark, however, lies in Dawson Piper, who begins his junior year as the team’s starting quarterback.

“This time last year, I didn’t know if I was going to be the starter,” Piper said. “I just worked every day as if I was going to end up playing.”

Piper will need to step into the role quickly, given the past performance of the player he is replacing.

Former Eagles standout quarterback Riley Babbit graduated in 2014 after putting together an impressive passing season. Babbit led the team to a 7-4 overall record with over 2,100 passing yards and 26 touchdowns.

Despite his inexperience as a starter, this Eagles squad seems fully confident in Piper’s work ethic and ability to fill in at the position.

“We’re not worried about (Piper) anymore,” Thompson said. “He really proved himself this offseason and during passing league.”

Last offseason the Eagles had more to worry about aside from any roster changes.

In March of 2014, Capistrano Valley Christian replaced head coach Dan Dodd with assistant coach Eric Preszler.

Dodd had an impressive three-year tenure as head coach for the Eagles, leading the team Dispatch Football Preview | Page 6

Kci Thompson, middle, and the Capistrano Valley Christian football team are looking for their first San Joaquin League title in 2015. Photo: Courtesy CVCS Athletics through three consecutive winning seasons from 2011 to 2013. Preszler followed in his mentor’s footsteps, leading Capistrano Valley Christian to the CIF playoffs with a 7-4 overall record in 2014.

This year, Preszler has coached his first full offseason with the team and is among those excited for the school’s week six rivalry matchup against Saddleback Valley Christian.

“They’re the league champions now and they have been for years, and ultimately that’s our goal—to win league,” Preszler said.

The Eagles head in to what is expected to be a highly competitive football schedule.

Their regular season opener will take place against Tri-City Christian on Aug. 29 at Capistrano Valley High School.

SCHEDULE Aug. 29 vs. Tri-City Christian @ Capistrano Valley High, 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 vs. St. Margaret’s @ SMES, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. Mary Star of the Sea @ CVHS, 7 p.m.

Sept. 19 vs. Brethren Christian @ Oceanview High, 7 p.m.

Oct. 1 vs. Crean Lutheran @ CVHS, 7 p.m. *Oct. 10 vs. Saddleback Valley Christian @ CVHS, 7 p.m. *Oct 15 vs. Fairmont Prep @ CVHS, 7 p.m. *Oct. 24 vs. Santa Clarita Christian @ Canyon High, 7 p.m. *Oct. 30 vs. The Webb Schools @Damien High, 7 p.m. *Nov. 6 vs. Southlands Christian @ Damien High, 7 p.m. *—denotes league game

2015 DISPATCH FOOTBALL PREVIEW

ST. MARGARET’S EPISCOPAL

BY CONNOR SCHMITT

Tartans aim to continue their success in the postseason The St. Margaret’s football team enters this season with commanding momentum and great expectations.

After suffering the program’s only loss of the 2014 season at the CIF State Division IV Championship game, it became known once again that this small San Juan school off La Novia Avenue could do big things on the football field.

“The team views that loss with a sense of unfinished business,” head coach Stephen Barbee said. “After seeing what happened last year, we know at this point that our hard work will get us far.”

The Tartans have worked this offseason in hopes of bringing another high caliber football team to the city of San Juan Capistrano, working diligently both in the weight room and off the field.

Barbee said the team’s motto this season is “We,” a reference to the team’s commitment and effort in the offseason.

The team has adapted well to Barbee’s competitive philosophy. Even the Tartans’ most heralded offensive stars of the 2014 season kept their cool in the face of such high expectations for 2015.

“I know that I’m viewed as a leader and I try to set an example,” standout senior wide receiver Nick Shanks said. “But really everyone on the team holds some form of leadership.”

Shanks was a big part of the Tartans’ 15-win campaign one year ago. Shanks played every game last year, reeling in 33 receptions for 819 yards, averaging nearly 25 yards per catch. He led their receiving core by a landslide with 11 touchdowns and firmly believes that his best season has yet to come.

“This offseason has been surreal and I’ve been putting everything I have into my last year,” Shanks said.

The Tartans remain optimistic about this season despite the loss of last year’s standout running back Oscar Gomez Jr., who ran for 2,392 yards and 38 touchdowns as a senior. Despite such tremendous numbers from the ground game, the team never claims to have been a rushing program.

“I’d say we’re about 50-50,” Coach Barbee said. “As an offense, we game plan. If they force us to pass, then we will pass.”

A great source of the team’s confidence is due to the return of junior quarterback George Krantz, who threw for nearly 1,700 yards last season as a sophomore. Krantz will be surrounded by playmakers, like Shanks, on offense.

While a great amount of this team’s success will depend upon the young quarterback, this is not the first year in recent history that the Tartans have dealt with high expec-

Dispatch Football Preview | Page 7

tations concerning the player under center.

In 2013, the focus was on star quarterback Josh Davis, who led St. Margaret’s to a CIF Championship game in his senior season and eventually committed to play quarterback at Football Championship Subdivision-member Lafayette College.

Krantz said he learned a lot from the Tartans former star quarterback. “(Davis) really helped me out when I was a freshman. He gave me advice on and off the field and helped me familiarize with the offense,” Krantz said.

But unlike many St. Margaret’s teams of the past, this team hopes to continue its success by adding more challenging opponents to the schedule.

Last season, the Tartans outscored nonleague opponents 257-41 and outscored their Academy League rivals 173-41 in four league games. The Tartans saw their fair share of landslide victories. This year’s team, however, will play to an elevated level of competition.

Between the team’s Sept. 18 matchup against Bishop’s of La Jolla and their Oct. 10 game against Justin-Siena of Napa, the Tartans will host the reigning CIF San Diego Section Div. 4 and CIF North Coast Section Div. 4 champions, respectively.

The Tartans will also face two 2014 playoff teams in their first two weeks of the season in Capistrano Valley Christian and The Webb Schools.

“When we start playing tougher opponents, I think it really helps to set the stage

SCHEDULE

St. Margaret’s junior quarterback George Krantz threw for 1,700 yards as a sophomore.

Photo: Courtesy St. Margaret’s Athletics for CIF-level competition,” Krantz said.

“We play some great teams this year and we understand that the best team they’re going to see this season is us,” Barbee said.

The Tartans have made it clear that their mission is to not only win these high-profile games, but win every single game.

Not only are the Tartans following in the footsteps of their 15-1 season in 2014, they are also representing a school that has had a long-standing tradition of playoff success.

Since the inception of the school’s football program, the Tartans have won six CIF Championship banners in eight trips to the finals. All six of those championship games have taken place in the last ten years. On top of that, the team has shown success in

Aug. 26 vs. Anaheim @ SMES, 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 vs. Capistrano Valley Christian @ SMES, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. The Webb Schools @ Damien High, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 vs. Bishop’s @SMES, 7 p.m.

Sept. 25 vs. Arrowhead Christian @ SMES, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 vs. Whittier Christian @ Whittier College, 7 p.m.

Oct. 10 vs. Justin-Siena @ JSHS, 5 p.m. *Oct. 16 vs. Sage Hill @ SMES, 7 p.m. *Oct. 24 vs. Brethren Christian @ Ocean View High, 7 p.m. *Oct. 29 vs. Crean Lutheran @ Irvine High, 7 p.m. *Nov. 6 vs. Victor Valley @ SMES, 7 p.m. *—denotes league game state championship games as well—winning it all in 2008 and appearing in the state finals last season.

And it is clear now what the expectation is for 2015. Krantz, who already has a championship ring to his credit, put it plain and simple.

“Our goal is to win the CIF Championship,” he said.

James Eidt, left, and Nick Shanks run downfield during a game in 2014. Photo: Courtesy St. Margaret’s Athletics

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List What’s going on in and around town

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 28 CONCERT & MOVIE IN THE PARK 6 p.m. The Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation and city of San Clemente host a concert and movie in the park. Live music from Wigs and Ties and a showing of The LEGO Movie. Fun on the Run will provide games and activities during the concert.

Also, enjoy food from food trucks and popcorn. Admission is free. 400 Linda Lane, San Clemente, 949.361.8264, www.san-clemente.org.

Saturday | 29 MOUNTAIN VIEW CHURCH FAMILY FAIR Noon-5 p.m. Family-friendly fun with food trucks, a concert, games, prizes, petting zoo, face painting, balloon art and more.

Admission is free. $1 game tickets may be purchased at the event. Mountain View Church, 32222 Del Obispo, San Juan Capistrano, www.mvclife.com.

FULL MOON HIKE 8 p.m.-10 p.m. Join The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo for a docent-led night hike among moonlit coast live oaks and sycamores. Ages 8 and up. $10 for adults, $5 for kids, free for supporters and RMV residents. Registered by 4 p.m. on Aug. 28.

The Richard and Donna O’Neil Conservancy, 949.489.9778, www.rmvreserve.org.

Sunday | 30 ART-A-FAIR: LOCALS NIGHT 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Discover 125 distinguished artists at the final day of this juried fine art

EDITOR’S PICK Devon Allman. Photo: Courtesy

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9: DEVON ALLMAN AT THE COACH HOUSE For a mid-week dose of guitar-heavy blues, country rock, rock and soul, San Juan Capistrano is the place to be on Wednesday, Sept. 9, when the Devon Allman Band performs live at The Coach House, with opening acts Robert Jon & The Wreck and Ryan & Faris. As part of the Ragged & Dirty Tour—named for his third solo album— Allman does the family rock-n-roll legacy proud while performing with a soulful musical style and powerful voice that is all his own. Tickets are $15. Dinner reservations are also available and come with reserved, priority seating. Doors open at 6 p.m. and Allman takes the stage at 8 p.m. The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano. For tickets and more information, call 949.496.8930 or visit www.thecoachhouse.com.

FREE TICKET GIVEAWAY The first 10 people to email us at events@thecapistranodispatch.com with the words “Dispatch free concert tickets” in the subject line will receive a pair of free tickets to the show, compliments of The Coach House. Please include your name and phone number in the email. festival in Laguna Canyon. Residents of Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and other south Orange County cities receive free admission after 5 p.m. (with ID). Enjoy live music, outdoor cuisine at Tivoli Too! and daily adult art workshops. The festival is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Adults $7.50, seniors/military $4.50, children under 12 free. 777 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.4514, www.art-a-fair.com.

DANA POINT SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 2:30 p.m.-6 p.m. Live music by DC Babylon & The Hanging Gardens Band (jazz and rock) and The Springsteen Experience-The Ultimate Tribute to the Boss at the city’s annual summer concert series.

Bands take the stage at Heritage Park.

Admission is free. Attendees may take the free Dana Point PCH Trolley from other areas in Dana Point to the concert.

Heritage Park, 34400 Old Golden Lantern, Dana Point, www.danapoint.org.

Tuesday | 01 HALF-PRICED WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Hop onboard this two-hour cruise to see dolphins, whales and other marine life in the wild. $22.50. Half price on Tuesdays but trips are available every day of the week.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Wednesday | 02 NATIVE AMERICAN BASKET WEAVING 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Learn about the traditions and culture of basket weaving at Mission San Juan Capistrano. First and third Wednesday of every month. Free with paid admission. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

Thursday | 03 READ TO A DOG 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Kids can read to licensed therapy dogs at the San Juan Capistrano Library. Studies have shown that reading to therapy dogs can improve children’s reading skills and self-confidence. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

Friday | 04 FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7 p.m.-9 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library presents a monthly movie night. A $2 donation supports the library. Call the library for more information. La Sala Auditorium at the San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

TREVOR MCSPADDEN 8:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

Saturday | 05 FAMILY FILM FEATURE 10 a.m.-noon. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library presents a familyfriendly matinee film the first Saturday of the month. Free admission and popcorn.

Call the library for more information.

La Sala Auditorium at the San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc.

FUNNIEST HOUSEWIVES OF ORANGE COUNTY 8 p.m. The Funniest Housewives of Orange County perform live at the Coach House. Tickets are $25. Doors open at 6 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

(Cont. on page 20)

At the Movies: ‘She’s Funny That Way’ is Kinda Screwy

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

fter 20 years of struggling to get the film off the page and onto the screen, film legend Peter Bogdanovich’s She’s Funny That Way was finally released this month. The movie was originally co-written in 1994 by Bogdanovich with ex-wife Louise Stratten, and then it went through many stages of recasting from 2003-2012 before production finally went through in 2013. But the film was pushed back from release for two years. While not

exactly terrible, the throwback screwball comedy isn’t exactly memorably amusing either.

In New York City, eccentric director Arnold Albertson (Owen Wilson) pays for a night with escort Izzy, or “Glow,” (Imogen Poots), then gives her a charitable $30,000 to change her profession and follow her dreams.

Only her dream is to be a stage actress and she coincidently ends up winning a role in his latest play. Meanwhile, the play’s writer, Josh (Will Forte), is living with Izzy’s therapist Jane (Jennifer Aniston), and Arnold’s wife

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28-September 10, 2015

and Izzy’s co-star, Delta (Kathryn Hahn) is attracted to the male lead, Seth (Rhys Ifans).

Cybill Shepherd, Illeana Douglas and Richard Lewis also make appearances in this all-star cast. What’s remarkable about She’s Funny is primarily Poots’ performance, which is charming and impressive, as are Forte’s scenes alongside her. But both acts are wasted on a comedy that isn’t very funny, and although Bogdanovich attempts to pay homage to old Hollywood glamorous nostalgia, his direction comes across as

Page 19

more outdated and stale, unfortunately.

The longawaited She’s Funny That Way sadly has too much going on and not enough naturalism for its great cast. CD

Photo: Courtesy

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT

Ships set sail during last year’s Toshiba Tall Ships Festival. Photo: Andrea Swayne

(Cont. from page 19)

Sunday | 06 CASPERS NATURE HIKE 8 a.m.-9 a.m. Join OC Park rangers every Sunday morning for an easy 1-mile hike on the nature trail, which takes visitors through grassland, oak woodland, riparian and sandy cactus scrub communities. Admission is free, parking is $5 per vehicle.

Participants should meet at the Old Corral day use area and wear comfortable clothing and hiking shoes. Rain will cancel the hike. Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com/caspers.

Monday | 07 LABOR DAY PIG ROAST 1 p.m. The Capistrano Eagles Motorcycle Club is hosting its 17th annual Labor Day Pig Roast at the Swallow’s Inn. The carving and buffet begins at 1 p.m. Live music will be performed by Family Style from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. A $15 donation includes food. For more information, call 714.321.9923. Swallow’s Inn, 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

Wednesday | 09 CAPO BEACH FARMERS MARKET Noon-6 p.m. Visit the area’s latest weekly market where locally-grown, organic produce and regional artisans are featured.

Capo Beach Church, 25975 Domingo Ave., 949.573.5033, www.danapoint.org.

Thursday | 10 STRETCH AND STRENGTH CLASS SERIES 6 p.m.-7 p.m. This partnership between I Heart Yoga in the Park and the Mission San Juan Capistrano brings yoga enthusiasts together to help in the fight against

cancer. $10 donation. Proceeds benefit Relay for Life San Juan Capistrano. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1321, www.iheartyogainthepark.com.

LECTURE: FIRE ECOLOGY 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Join The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo and become more knowledgeable about the history and ecological role of wildland fire in Orange County. Get a better understanding of fire behavior, extreme fire weather and Red Flag Alerts. Learn about the South County Fire Watch program and how you can become a Fire Watch volunteer. Ages 8 and up. Admission is free. Participants must be registered by 2 p.m. on Sept. 10. RMV Presentation Center, call for directions, 949.489.9778, www.rmvreserve.org.

UPCOMING: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 TOSHIBA TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The sights, smells and sounds of authentic working tall ships is set to return to the Dana Point Harbor as the Ocean Institute hosts the 31st annual Toshiba Tall Ships Festival. The event kicks off today with a sunset parade sail participating vessels in the waters just off of the Harbor from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. The festival continues through the weekend with live music, food, arts, crafts and demonstrations of seafaring days past by reenactors—pirates, British and American evolutionary period and western vaqueros from the time of missions and ranchos.

Inside the Institute, see mermaids, interactive activities and sea life. Admission to the Institute and ship deck tours is $5 for members and $8 for non-members, ages 3 and up. Tickets to sail aboard a tall ship during a mock cannon battle are $40-$65 and available for ages 4 and up. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

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

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

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28–September 10, 2015

Page 20

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

Older Singles Do Find Love

T

his week, a woman named Merijoe emailed, “Between all of the articles you’ve written, plus the Finding Love After 50 Facebook group, and the meet and greets at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, did anyone actually get together with someone or become a couple?”

Her question took me aback. My gosh, I thought, I’ve been writing about finding love after 50 for 22 years and she wonders if my material has helped anyone find a mate.

In those 22 years, I’ve written upward of 3,500 newspaper articles and enewsletters, and published three printed books and multiple ebooks on the finding love subject. I even married one couple. Chances are, I’ve likely helped a few couples find each other.

Take the meet and greets at Tutor and Spunky’s. In the two years since those were implemented, I am aware of 32 people (16 couples) who met there. Now whether all of them are still together, I can’t say, but it is a nice to know that 32

people found happiness by meeting there. The age range of the couples range in age from the mid-50s to 93.

At the Heritage Park concert last Sunday in Dana Point, I ran into Robert, a longtime ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 friend of mine. He said,

By Tom Blake “I’m here today with my girlfriend, the one I met at your meet and greet two years ago.”

Also, I would like to think that my appearances on the “Today Show” and my interview with Diane Sawyer on “Good Morning America” helped bring a few couples together.

I have been a speaker at the American Association of Retired Persons national conventions five times. Usually, 500 to 600 singles attended those presentations. I know at least one couple met at one of my

speeches when I made the people introduce themselves to those sitting around them. That couple came back the next year and told me they met because I nudged them to shake hands the year before.

On the Finding Love After 50 Facebook page, which I started 10 weeks ago, about 350 people have joined. Have any of them met a mate there yet? I don’t think so. But the 350 people have made new friends they otherwise would not. And when older singles start making new friends, who knows to where that might lead?

I am not a date-matching service; oneto-one introductions and fix-ups haven’t worked well for me. I’ll leave that to the big companies like Match, eHarmony, Our Time and the multitude of others.

As we age, people find getting out harder and harder to do.

In 22 years, my No. 1 piece of advice for singles 50 and older hasn’t changed. To improve one’s chances of meeting a mate

later in life, both men and women have to get off the couch and out of the house and pursue activities they enjoy; they need to meet new people. Waiting around for a potential mate to appear doesn’t work. It takes time, effort, energy and a positive attitude to make something happen.

When that happens, I’ll be able to report to Merijoe that another couple has gotten together as a result of our encouragement.

How many over the years? Enough to make what I do rewarding and ongoing.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his website at www.findingloveafter60.com. To comment, email tompblake@ gmail.com. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

Behind the Man, Woman and Business of the Year

BY ALLISON JARRELL, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

t the San Juan Chamber of Commerce’s July 9 installation dinner, American Horse Products, owned

by Jim and Diane Carter, was recognized as the 2015 Business of the Year, former mayor and current councilman Sam Allevato was named Man of the Year and former councilwoman Laura Freese, of the Heritage Tourism Association, was selected as Woman of the Year.

MAN OF THE YEAR: SAM ALLEVATO Allevato, a 40-year resident of San Juan Capistrano, thanked his wife Vicky at the event for her constant support throughout his service to the city. Allevato was first appointed to the San Juan Capistrano City Council in March 2004 and served as mayor in 2007, 2011 and 2014.

A retired Irvine police lieutenant, Allevato spent a total of 33 years in law enforcement. He also served on boards for the Orange County Fire Authority, Orange County Library Advisory Board, Transportation Corridor Agency and the San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition.

“To be recognized, especially by the business community, is huge because they are the economic engine that makes this town work,” Allevato said in an interview.

Allevato said when it comes to working

with the business community, his focus has been on protecting property rights and helping budding business owners achieve success with what is “probably the biggest investment of their life.” He hopes to see San Juan’s business climate continue to grow out of stagnation.

“I believe that high tide raises all boats. When you help a business, everybody (benefits),” Allevato said.

celebrated.”

Freese said her focus is on preserving and protecting historical assets. She looks forward to economic development like incoming hotels, but said a “happy medium” must be found with historic preservation.

“I want people to know, love and appreciate San Juan,” Freese said.

WOMAN OF THE YEAR: LAURA FREESE Laura Freese has a long history of city involvement, including serving on the City Council for four years beginning in 2008 and serving one term as mayor pro tem. Freese is on the city’s Housing Advisory Committee and is the chair of the Oversight Board for the Successor Agency, and served on the former Economic Preservation Subcommittee, which was formed to lessen the impact on local business during the Ortega Highway Interchange Improvement Project.

Recently, Freese formed the Heritage Tourism Association with Mechelle Lawrence-Adams, executive director of Mission San Juan Capistrano. Freese said the HTA is focused on bringing more visitors downtown.

“I work under the radar,” Freese said.

“My heart is in making the city, and especially the downtown, a great destination. I want our historic culture to be

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: AMERICAN HORSE PRODUCTS Diane Carter said she was surprised to hear that she and Jim were receiving the Business of the Year award from the chamber, but it seems fitting with San Juan’s moniker being “the equestrian capitol of the West.”

She and her husband Jim live in Modjeska Canyon, and they’re constantly involved in the San Juan community.

Diane is an adviser with the San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Coalition and is the chair and a team captain for San Juan Capistrano Relay for Life. Jim is on the San Juan Capistrano library board and the Chamber of Commerce board.

The pair has owned American Horse Products since 1999, but decided to move the store from Laguna Niguel to San Juan in 20007. They strive to provide a wide array of equestrian products for both English and Western riders at affordable prices.

“I think park of our success has been

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28-September 10, 2015

Page 21

City Councilman Sam Allevato, Jim and Diane Carter, owners of American Horse Products, and former Councilwoman Laura Freese pose for a photo at the Carters’ shop, which was named San Juan Capistrano’s Business of the Year. Photo: Allison Jarrell

becoming a part of the community,” Jim said. “It’s pretty easy to become a part of this community with the emphasis on equestrian use.”

Sales continue to grow as the Carters continue to cater to an eclectic customer base. Jim said less than 20 percent of the people who shop at American Horse Products are from San Juan—they come from Orange County and across the world, often as far away as China or Saudi Arabia.

“The horse community is really thriving right now, and we hope that it continues to thrive, because the energy that the horse community brings to this city is unequaled by anything,” Jim said. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

Photo: Scott Schmitt

Ridin’ High at the Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

More than 9,000 people gathered in San Juan Capistrano last weekend for the 15th annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo, which took place Saturday and Sunday at the RMV Riding Park.

This year’s Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association line-up featured 30 of the world’s best cowboys competing for a purse that was in excess of $250,000.

The annual event has been hosted by Rancho Mission Viejo’s O’Neill-AveryMoiso family for the past 15 years, with donations totaling more than $1.5 million since the rodeo’s inception. Proceeds from the rodeo benefit a number of South Orange County charities, including The Shea Center for Therapeutic Riding in San Juan Capistrano and CHOC at Mission Hospital. Rodeo organizers said CHOC and the Shea Center each received a $50,000 donation this year.

For a full list of rodeo winners, photo galleries from the two-day event and an interview with Trina Moiso, Rancho Mission Viejo CEO Tony Moiso’s eldest daughter, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com. CD

Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57 Media

The Capistrano Dispatch August 28–September 10, 2015

Photo: Scott Schmitt

Page 22

Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57 Media

Photo: Allison Jarrell

Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57 Media

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

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

Time Flies When Your Kids are Having Fun

I

watch his little chest rise and fall.

Finally, he begins his much anticipated deep, rhythmic breathing. Sleep. My 4-year-old has drifted off to dream land. I devise the escape route.

Holding my breath, I tighten my stomach muscles and, using extreme caution, roll slowly to the left. The twin bed squeaks and squawks. It threatens to blow my cover. Landing stealthily on my knees, onto the plush carpet, I get low and army crawl to the door. I’m nearly there. Silence and relaxation in my bedroom just down the hall beckon me. I long for our childfree, post-bedtime master bedroom oasis.

No kids fighting, complaining, whining...

“Mama?”

My exit strategy has failed. I’ve been caught. It’s all over. Back to square one.

Rookie mistake, and I’m no rookie. Didn’t wait for deep sleep. That’s key for any successful departure.

“Where are you going?”

Inside I’m screaming, crying, begging, pleading for dear mercy. For the love of all that is holy, sweet child, “What?! What, child?”

He’s the baby of the family, and what they say is true. All of it. I never laid in bed with the older kids and coaxed them into dreamland. No way. Yet here I am, doing what I always preached about not doing.

There’s just something about knowing they’re your last baby.

My mostly mellow little man morphs into a wild, high-strung, bouncing on the bed, running all around bundle of bedtime energy. While his older siblings melt into bed, without a huge amount of hoopla, he’s launched into his anti-bedtime campaign.

Well, I’m tired of funding it.

Begrudgingly, I flop down on his bed— again. Big brother is already fast asleep, across the bedroom. The sisters are silent, probably asleep too.

I wriggle over to him. His little peepers are fluttering; fighting to stay open. We gaze at each other. It’s hard to stay mad.

He lays his little boy hand on top of mine

and smiles at me.

Right there.

That’s why I’m a whimp. That little moment when he sucks me in. Then I know, I know that these fleeting moments aren’t forever. They’re like dust in the wind, evaporating droplets of water, temporary.

Sometimes it’s hard to hold that perspective. There are so many things they do that annoy the niceness out of me. The everyday shuffle can be agonizing. I used to get annoyed when those little old ladies in the grocery store would say, with knowing smiles, “Enjoy this time.

It goes fast.”

My kids are growing up. There won’t always be a colossal mound of stinky laundry piled in the laundry room. Those FOUR KIDS mysterious unnamed AND A DOG elves who make messes

By Elizabeth Bottiaux all throughout our home will evaporate. Our home will be strangely silent.

Parenthood is only one season of life.

It’s not always going to be this way. I know this, and yet it’s hard to grasp during those tough days. We need those simple, small moments that make all the other chaos worth enduring.

Next time I lie with him could be my last.

Soon he won’t want me to snuggle with him, burrow my nose into his silky hair and tell him I love him. I’ll take today’s blessings and turn them into tomorrow’s memories.

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.

SCENE

For students in San Juan Capistrano, and the rest of the Capistrano Unified { IN S A N J UA N } School District, Tuesday marked the beginning of the 2015-2016 school year. At San Juan Elementary School, scores of proud parents and eager students were on campus bright and early for first day photo opps. Fourth-grader Erik Hallowell, left, and kindergartners Bryan and Jenna Hallowell pose for a photo before embarking their first day of school. Photo: Allison Jarrell

PETS OF THE WEEK: APOLLO & TIM

A

pollo, a playful 10-month-old terrier mix, and Tim, a sweet 6-month-old papillon, are looking for their new forever homes! Apollo is outgoing and always ready for playtime while Tim is a bit more shy, but they do have one thing in common— both pups love being affectionate and spending time with their humans.

Apollo and Tim are currently being fostered at the Zuri Pet Spa & Resort. If you would like to know more about them—or any of the other pets up for adoption—contact Zuri at 949.429.7222 or thezuripetspa@yahoo.com. Or stop by for a visit at 32423 Calle Perfecto in San Juan Capistrano.

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 The Capistrano Dispatch August 28-September 10, 2015

Apollo.

Page 24

Tim.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com

HELP WANTED HIRING: Looking for an individual with 3-4 years experience for a shift leader at Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt in San Clemente. Flexible hours a +ve,please send your resume to samer.rufail@menchiesfroyo.com BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CAPISTRANO VALLEY CURRENT JOB OPENING: PROGRAM AIDE Position Description: Part-time Program Aide position to work with youth ages 6 - 18 at our Branch in San Juan Capistrano. Hours will be 2:00pm – 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Duties will include planning and implementing activities in one or more of the following areas: education; social recreation; arts and crafts; and physical education. Requirements: High school diploma, Experience working with children, particularly in planning high yield youth activities, Communication skills to deal with children and with the general public (bilingual in Spanish a plus), CPR and first aid certified. If you are interested or to get more information about the position, please contact Lynn Watson, Office Manager, at 949.240.7898 ext. *10 or by email at lwatson@bgccapo.com.

SERVICES HANDYMAN CHRIS Flat screen TV’s installed, anything Electrical, Plumbing, Finish Carpentry, Drywall Repairs, Mold and Wood Rot issues, Waterproofing, Decks and Patio covers repaired, Doors, Windows, Kitchens and Baths, Water Damage Restoration, Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication and Much More. Phone Chris – 949 510 6645 WOOD DECK REPAIR WIZZARD Wood Rot Repair Certified Specialist, Wood Decks, Balconies, Patio Covers + Outside Stairs Repaired / Replaced, New Decking Systems, All work Guaranteed. Phone Chris -949 510 6645

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

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 August 28–September 10, 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 25

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

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Grom of the Week: Patrick O’Connor

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

P

atrick O’Connor, 11, of San Juan Capistrano is one of the area’s most versatile groms, having started surfing as a toddler. Whether ripping on a shortboard or performing stylish maneuvers on a longboard, Patrick’s talent for wave riding is apparent.

At the Western Surfing Association West Coast Championships, May 30 and 31 at Church Beach, he wowed the judges and spectators on both types of boards.

Patrick was the winner of the Boys U14 Longboard division and in Boys U12 Shortboard, he took first place in his Round 1 and Quarterfinal heats to advance to the semifinal where his campaign ended.

O’Connor had a successful season in the Volcom Totally Crustaceous Tour this season—grabbing first-, second- and thirdplace finishes.

Patrick just started sixth grade at Marco Forster Middle School and vows to continue to work hard to keep his grades up although he admits school is not his favorite thing to do, as it pales in comparison to wave riding.

“School’s not my favorite but if I didn’t go I wouldn’t have as many friends as I do, so it’s worth it,” he said. “And I would like to go to college, so that makes me want to try harder in school.”

Not really looking to professional surfing as career, he instead has his heart set

Patrick O’Connor. Photo: Courtesy

on becoming a surfboard shaper, a free surfer and WSA competitor for life and possibly taking over his dad’s private label surf apparel design company someday.

Patrick surfs every day and is hoping to be able to travel to Australia next year to compete in the Noosa Festival of Surfing. He has begun saving up the money it will take to get there—working, selling his used surfboards and looking at other fundraising methods.

When asked how he feels about his style being compared to that of pro surfer Taylor Knox, Patrick said he is flattered but that imitation is not what he is trying for.

“I don’t really try to have a style or surf like anyone,” Patrick said. “I just surf. I don’t try to look a certain way. I just go with it and whatever happens, happens.” CD

Dyer, Team USA Place Seventh at World Championships THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

addleback Valley Christian senior Noah Dyer and the U.S. Boys’ Youth National Volleyball Team finished seventh overall at the 2015 FIVB Boys’ U19 World Championships in Argentina on Aug. 23.

Dyer, a 6-foot-6-inch outside hitter, and the American team defeated China 25-21, 25-23, 25-15 in the seventh-place match on Aug. 23. Dyer had four kills in the team’s final game.

The American team started the tournament off hot, winning their first four poolplay matches against Turkey, Belgium, France and Argentina, respectively. It was Page 26

the first time in program history a BYNT finished pool play undefeated in the World Championships.

In the round of 16, team USA defeated Mexico in straight sets.

Team USA hit a speed bump in the quarterfinals, losing to Russia 25-22, 25-20, 25-23.

In the consolation bracket, where the best the Americans could hope to finish was fi fth place, Brazil defeated team USA in five sets. The loss to Brazil led to the match against China.

The seventh-place finish is the highest ever for the BYNT in World Championship competition. There were 20 teams in the tournament. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com