May 1, 2020

LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

May 1-7, 2020 C A N

U S E

Pro Baseball DHHS Alumni Were Ready for 2020 Growth PAGE 11

VOLUME 13, ISSUE 18

Down to Business With Retail and Salons Deemed Nonessential, Local Businesses Fight to Stay Afloat E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 6

Marla Balmuth has completely modified her business plan for Golden Galleon in the past month in order to provide online orders and delivery to customers. Photo: Lillian Boyd

City and Surf Club Hosting Food Drive Saturday SURF/PAGE 14

OC Board Unanimously Approves Guidelines for Businesses EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

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Gov. Newsom Orders ‘Hard Close’ of OC Beaches GETTING OUT/PAGE 8

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people generally encouraged to only venture out for food or other essential services.

Some people in South Orange County have called for businesses and other aspects of society to reopen.—Collin Breaux

Disaster Distress Helpline Calls Increase During Coronavirus Pandemic

Five things Dana Point should know this week OC Board Unanimously Approves Guidelines for Businesses THE LATEST: The Orange County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Tuesday, April 28 for a set of guidelines centered on how businesses should conduct themselves once restrictive orders set by the state and federal government are lifted.

The model, brought to the board by Chairperson Michelle Steel and Supervisor Don Wagner, will serve as guidance for when the county transitions toward “normal state of activity,” according to a press release from Steel’s office.

The action does not, however, reopen businesses, as reported in a Fox 11 Los Angeles online story originally headlined, “The OC Board of Supervisors unanimously votes 5-0 to reopen businesses with safety guidelines.” County officials confirmed this was not the case and the article has since updated its headline to be “The OC Board of Supervisors votes unanimously on safety guidelines required to reopen businesses.”

According to Steel, the guidelines were put together to ensure that all industry representatives, medical professionals and the county’s legal counsel had input in order to best reflect the business needs while adhering to public health recommendations.

Supervisor Lisa Bartlett represents the 5th District on the board, which includes Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

“Like many of our residents, I too am anxious to open our economy and understand the importance of this next phase in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Bartlett said. “It is critical that we get people back to work as quickly as possible.”

However, any plan to reopen will be contingent on the county’s ability to continue to mitigate the spread of the virus, health care capacity, and the overall health and safety of residents, especially those who are most vulnerable, Bartlett said.

That includes sufficient testing and tracing capabilities, as well as sufficient PPE and ventilator inventories. At this time, the county is in the process of analyzing available data to determine a timeline to reopen and within the parameters of Gov. Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

Gov. Gavin Newsom said schools could reopen by late July or early August during an announcement on Tuesday, April 28, though no definitive decisions have been made. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Gavin Newsom’s phasing plan.

“These guidelines do not supersede any conflicting or more restrictive orders issued by local governments, the State of California, or the Federal Government,” the guidelines first state. “These guidelines should apply equally to businesses, houses of worship, entertainment and sports venues (including youth sports), and education providers, both public and private, and other organizations.”

Additionally, the board emphasizes that anyone who feels sick, is 65 years of age or older, or suffers from chronic illness, should remain at home.

“Physical distancing of a minimum of six feet should be maintained between customer-facing employees and the general public, and—to the extent practical— between employee work stations. Where six feet of physical distancing between workstations is impractical, face coverings should be worn. Businesses are encouraged to allow telecommuting by employees when practical.”

The guidelines go on to instruct employers to require their customer-facing employees to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer every 30 minutes, or wear disposable gloves.

“All employees, before starting a shift, should have their temperatures taken and not be permitted to work upon a temperature reading above 100.4 degrees,” the guidelines state. “Businesses should significantly increase frequency of sanitizing workstations and equipment that come into contact with the general public.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Failure of a vendor to adhere to these guidelines may subject them to law enforcement action.

Those accessing county beaches, parks or trails shall follow physical distancing directives set by the state.—Lillian Boyd

Gov. Newsom Discusses Possibility of Schools and Businesses Reopening THE LATEST: Gov. Gavin Newsom said schools could reopen by late July or early August during an announcement on Tuesday, though no definitive decisions have been made.

“We recognize there’s been a learning loss because of this disruption,” Newsom said. “We’re concerned about that learning loss into the summer, and so we are considering the prospect of an even earlier school year into the fall.”

Preparation should be made for the physical and environmental changes in the schools to “advance that conversation,” Newsom said. Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) had transitioned starting in March to distance learning, or online instruction, after statewide campus closures.

CUSD officials are considering a “do no harm” approach to grading in which students would not be penalized for adverse effects from the pandemic, and have not yet made a decision on graduation due to physical distancing guidelines and rapidly changing circumstances from the crisis. Some parents have called for schools to reopen and graduation ceremonies to take place.

Newsom discussed general aspects of businesses and the state economy gradually reopening, saying numerous benchmarks have to be met, including with coronavirus testing.

“We’ve made real progress in that space—not nearly where we want to go and need to be, but real progress we are seeing in this space,” Newsom said.

WHAT’S NEXT: A statewide stay-at-home order was issued by Newsom in March, with

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THE LATEST: People can feel anxious and distressed during the global shutdown, which has led to increased calls for the National Disaster Distress Helpline.

Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, a nonprofit mental health organization with locations in Southern California, handles calls for the Disaster Distress Helpline and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number is 1.800.273.8255, and the National Disaster Distress Helpline phone number is 1.800.985.5990.

For Orange County, Didi Hirsch’s combined lines answered two calls related to the coronavirus in February 2020, 115 in March and is on track to exceed that number for April. About one in four Orange County calls is related to the coronavirus.

In terms of general numbers, Didi Hirsch answered almost 10% more calls through April of this year for all their lines compared to April 2019. For the Disaster Distress Helpline, they’ve answered five times as many calls through April 2020 compared to 2019.

Overall call numbers related to COVID-19 were 21 in February, more than 1,800 in March and on track to exceed 3,000 for April.

“First and foremost is anxiety and stress,” Lyn Morris, Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations, said to explain why people are calling.

Currently, people are in the midst of the coronavirus crisis and concerned with basic needs, and negative feelings could increase as financial problems grow and uncertainty continues, Morris said.

The crisis could also be a trigger for people who previously have been through traumatic events, including shootings, Morris said.

Along with anxiety and stress, coronavirus-related callers are also expressing concerns about their health, being evicted, paying utility bills and buying food. They are also discussing relationship problems and suicidal concerns, though in comparatively lesser numbers.

Morris said mental health needs are increasing due to lost social opportunities and increasing isolation, which can exacerbate conditions for people with existing mental health conditions. The unknown extent or long-term effects of the pandemic can make (Cont. on page 4) danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 3) people feel out of control, said Morris, who encouraged people to find other ways to stay connected during physical distancing.

“We encourage people to find ways to give back,” said Morris, noting research shows doing so is beneficial for mental health.

Giving back can include doing errands for elderly neighbors or sending gift cards to people in need.

Health experts say it is too early to say if suicide rates have recently increased during the pandemic, citing factors such as coroner investigations taking months to investigate cases. That information is not expected to be known until later this summer.

Death statistics obtained from OC Health Care Agency showed the number of Orange County residential deaths in March 2020 slightly increased from February 2020, but the number was lower compared to January 2020. The number of residential deaths was 1,794 in March 2020, 1,720 in February 2020 and 1,921 in January 2020.

February and March 2020 death rates were lower compared to 2019 numbers for those months. January 2020 deaths were higher compared to January 2019 numbers.

Through the first part of April 2020, there reportedly has not been an increase in deaths in Orange County compared to the same months in the past two years.—CB

Essential Workers in Food, Grocery and Retail Stores Required to Wear Masks in OC THE LATEST: As of Friday, April 24, all employees of any grocery store, gas station, convenience store or food preparation establishment in the county are required to wear a cloth face mask or covering while at work.

The Orange County Board of Supervisors approved a directive on Tuesday, April 21, from Vice Chairman Andrew Do, who represents the county’s First District, to require employees of grocery stores, pharmacies, drug stores, convenience stores, gas stations, restaurants, food preparation establishments and retail stores to wear face masks.

The directive, reportedly in pursuant to Government Code section 8665, went into effect at midnight on April 23. However, the regulation does not apply to customers. County health officials are still advising residents to wear masks, anyway.

“Residents can make their own face coverings at home from a variety of materials and should refrain from purchasing personal protective equipment that is critical and in short supply for our health care workers, such as N95 and surgical masks,” said Dr. Nichole Quick, an OC Health Care Agency officer.

WHAT’S NEXT: If a city has a more restrictive rule regarding face coverings, the more restrictive rule will apply to their jurisdiction. The City of Dana Point has not implemented such a rule.—LB Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

The Orange County Board of Supervisors approved a directive requiring employees of county grocery stores, pharmacies, drug stores, convenience stores, gas stations, restaurants, food preparation establishments and retail stores to wear face masks. Photo: Pexels

CUSD Considering Graduation Options THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) officials are considering some options for graduation ceremonies, which have plunged into uncertainty due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Guidelines discouraging physical proximity and in-person gatherings have left the senior rite of passage in question.

Several options were put forth during a CUSD Board of Trustees meeting on Wednesday, April 29: a ceremony on June 4 if allowed by circumstances later in May; a video presentation recognizing the accomplishments of the Class of 2020 if physical distancing is still in place in the near future; or postponing commencement ceremonies until July. CUSD staff feels a June 4 ceremony is highly unlikely.

Surveys were sent to students, parents and principals to see what they think about graduation, with 75% of students wanting to postpone ceremonies until later in the summer and only 4% of students interested in a video presentation. As for parents, 68% want to postpone until the summer, and 13% were interested in the video option.

Principals reportedly felt the June 4 date should be commemorated and physical distancing considered, and anything after the week of July 20 would be difficult to plan for and make happen considering the upcoming preparations for the next school year.

Student Advisor Genavieve Koenigshofer discussed her perspective during the meeting and called the situation heartbreaking. Koenigshofer is immunocompromised with lupus and said there

are people in the community at risk who could be endangered by public gatherings.

“My senior year trip to Nashville, Tennessee, was canceled. My senior prom was canceled. My last 10 weeks in school were canceled,” Koenigshofer said. “It’s been hard. I know it’s taken a toll on a lot of students. I really support what the staff recommendations are, because it’s really not worth the risk to hold a graduation earlier than it needs to be.”

Most students can agree the health and safety of the community come first, Koenigshofer said.

CUSD Trustee Martha McNicholas mentioned the possibility of doing graduations in split shifts to accommodate smaller gatherings. Trustee Patricia Holloway said there should be some sort of virtual celebration if an in-person graduation is not possible.

Trustees also approved a “do no harm” approach to student grades during the pandemic, meaning report card grades should not be negatively impacted by school closures. Students are adjusting to distance learning, or online education, during campus closures.

Elementary students will receive a score of standard met or progressing toward expectation/needs review in place of the regular numerical score. Middle and high school students will receive a grade of A, B or C, with an additional CR for credit or NC for no credit instead of a D or F. “A ‘CR’ would not hurt or help a student’s grade-point average (GPA),” a CUSD staff report said. “Also, the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems, as well as schools such as Stanford and Harvard, have indicated their willingness to accept a “CR” as an indica-

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tion that a student has successfully passed a class.”

Trustees and parents who called in to comment discussed the merits of grade marks. Students who receive an NC grade can do make-up work, retake a class for credit in summer school or go through credit recovery or other programs during the school year. A grade of NC will not negatively impact a student’s GPA. Teachers are said to be checking in with students who aren’t turning in work.

“One of the things that concerned me when we went to distance learning was the sense that a teacher has a scale of expectation in a particular course that they have perhaps taught for years,” Trustee Jim Reardon said. “In distance learning, that teacher is struggling with distance learning tools, the formats have changed, the content is completely different. Suddenly the scale is out the window, and my concern—I think it’s satisfied by this policy—is that we give a teacher a tool to exercise discretion from the circumstances.”

Superintendent Kirsten Vital also addressed Gov. Gavin Newsom’s announcement that the next school year could start as early as July.

“That was a surprise to everyone. I can tell you at this time, we are not recommending a change to the calendar for the school year,” Vital said. “We know there’s an ever-evolving situation. We have begun planning for the closing of this school year and the opening of the next school year. I’m sure in the coming days and weeks, we will all hear more about the governor’s plans and thinking.”

CUSD officials will continue to communicate with the community and employees, Vital said.—CB danapointtimes.com

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NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

City and Surf Club Announce May 2 Food Drive The City of Dana Point, in collaboration with the Dana Point Surf Club, is hosting a drop-and-go food drive event this Saturday, May 2.

Since the start of stay-at-home orders and business closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been increased need for food and basic supplies such as cleaners, paper towels and toilet paper. According to city officials, families struggling due to a loss in wages have requested family-friendly items including bread, peanut butter and cereal.

"Unfortunately, there are those who are struggling to make ends meet due to this crisis,” said Dana Point Mayor Richard Viczorek. “But we are fortunate to live in a caring, tight-knit community, and I appreciate the generosity that has been demonstrated by the residents and businesses of Dana Point.”

For those who can donate, items must be ready for retrieval from the trunk of the vehicle, and individuals must remain inside their vehicle during drop-off, wear masks and practice safe social distancing.

City staff will distribute the food to Dana Point seniors and local families in need.

The Food Drive will take place Saturday at the Dana Point Community Center at 34052 Del Obispo, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“We are all in this together,” said Eric Diamond, president of Dana Point Surf Club. “By practicing kindness, patience and thoughtfulness, we will get through this.

By doing the right thing, we can emerge an even stronger Dana Point family than ever.”

Some of the most needed items include cereal, peanut butter, canned chicken, canned tuna, pasta sauce, dried pasta and canned vegetables, as well as books and puzzles. City staff asks that additional items to consider donating are boxed macaroni and cheese, rice, refried beans and granola bars, along with disinfectant wipes, cleaners of any type, gloves, toilet paper and paper towels. Among items on the do-not-donate list include refrigerated foods and anything in glass containers.

“I hope everyone who is able to do so, joins us to continue to get food and supplies into the hands of those that need it most," Viczorek said.

Ocean Institute Awarded $10K for Educational Programs The Ocean Institute in Dana Point was Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

The Ocean Institute was awarded $10,000 thanks to the Robert E. Harris Insurance Agency through Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance’s “Make More Happen Awards.” Photo: Lillian Boyd

awarded a $10,000 donation to provide severely underserved students in Orange County with first-time, powerful ocean education that broadens their horizons.

The funding comes from the Robert E. Harris Insurance Agency through Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance’s “Make More Happen Awards.”

According to a press release, the $10,000 Make More Happen Award will be used to benefit the most severely underserved students in Orange County, with funds covering the program fees and transportation costs for 10 classes.

The Ocean Institute educates 100,000 children, teachers, parents, and visitors annually through more than 60 marine science and maritime history programs.

More than 10,000 of those are from underserved communities, with the Ocean Institute providing K-12 students with access to the ocean who may not have it otherwise due to financial hurdles and logistic constraints.

Steve Harris, an agent at Robert E. Harris Insurance Agency, says he became involved with Ocean Institute because of its impact to empower these students to learn and lead, both about the ocean and in life.

“Thanks to the Ocean Institute, we see students take a real interest in the sciences and come back to the Ocean Institute seeking more education and experience,” said Harris. “Because we feel so personally committed to the Ocean Institute, we are truly grateful to Liberty Mutual and Safeco for the Make More Happen Award for the incredible opportunity to bring awareness to the Ocean Institute and to provide them with the much-needed funds to support their important work.”

Throughout 2020, Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance will select a total of

34 independent agents nationwide for a Make More Happen Award, donating up to $340,000 to the nonprofits they support.

Agencies became eligible for the award by submitting an application demonstrating their commitment to a specific nonprofit, along with photos of a project they had worked on.

Ocean Institute’s tall ship, the Pilgrim, was used as a classroom field trip destination for decades before she sank in her slip late last month. She was estimated to be worth about $6 million, and questions have arisen as to how the Ocean Institute will proceed in continuing to offer a replication of the Pilgrim’s experience for students.

According to Wendy Marshall, the Ocean Institute’s president of education and operations, a task force will determine how the institute will move forward.

For those wanting to make a donation to Ocean Institute to help overcome costs associated with the Pilgrim’s demise, as well as income shortage from canceled fundraisers and events, patrons can do so directly at ocean-institute.org.

Boys & Girls Club Delivers Meals to Kids in Need During Pandemic With students spending the remainder of the school year at home during the coronavirus pandemic, the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area is working to provide families in need with healthy meals and activity packs for their kids.

Since mid-March, when schools began instructing students to stay at home and out of the classrooms to stem the spread

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of the virus, the nonprofit group has partnered with several local organizations, corporations and civic groups to provide more than 5,000 meals and hundreds of care packages.

Those care packages contain fruits and vegetables, pasta fixings and more, as well as activity packs including arts and crafts projects the kids can work on and stay busy.

Koa Morgan, a second-grader and a member of the club, has been receiving meals and care packages for several weeks. Koa’s mom, Giselle Martinez, says he enjoys when the club staff makes their drop-off, as he’s able to interact with them.

“He gets to see them and misses the club. I’m thankful for an organization that cares deeply about their members,” she said in a prepared statement shared with the San Clemente Times. “They’re always providing amazing resources for families.

Not only are they providing daily food and groceries, they are keeping normal activities going for their members.”

Martinez added that Koa is continuing his reading program virtually and loves the weekly art projects the club sends to him.

The meals program was initially started to help families who are already members, but the club has since expanded to any family in need, according to Development Director Elizabeth Beas.

To learn more about enrolling in the program, email info@bgcsca.org.

Have something interesting for the community?

Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com

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Down to Business With Retail and Salons Deemed Nonessential, Local Businesses Fight to Stay Afloat

BY LILLIAN BOYD, DANA POINT TIMES

Marla Balmuth is running her business the same way she did when she first opened Golden Galleon 40 years ago: by herself.

She says it’s like coming full circle. Although her husband is assisting with order deliveries for the women’s clothing shop, Balmuth no longer has a team of associates to help her after retail businesses were deemed nonessential when Gov. Gavin Newsom issued his stay-at-home order in March. While Balmuth says adaptability is key for running a successful business, the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on the economy was not a change she was bracing herself for.

“When I think back on when I first purchased this store, it was one of the original shops in the harbor,” Balmuth said. “We’ve been talking about revitalization for the past 20 years. We finally felt with new management, we could get necessary upgrades to the harbor going.”

The Dana Point Harbor Partners were gearing up to begin parking improvements as part of their phased set of facelifts for the harbor ahead of this summer.

“When we were hit with this pandemic, I knew I had to figure something out,” Balmuth said. “This whole situation really pushed me to pivot. My business model has been completely rewritten in less than a month.”

Golden Galleon is now putting an emphasis on marketing products on its online store.

Customers can even pick up their orders through curbside pickup at the harbor.

Balmuth is also implementing social media in ways she never before thought she would embrace. With online, live-streamed “retail parties,” she’s able to show her followers merchandise and products.

“The first one in March was a success,” Balmuth said. “We received really positive feedback. Seemingly, everyone was ready to tune in. It was raining outside on a Saturday, so there was amazing response. I had people saying, ‘Let’s do it again!’ ” Balmuth plans on holding another retail party on “Mini Retail Therapy Session” livestream on the Golden Galleon Facebook page on Thursday, May 7 at 10 a.m. ahead of Mother’s Day. Vickie McMurchie, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce’s executive director, says that Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to reach out to favorite local retailers to see how you can support them while socially distancing.

“Before turning to nationwide chains like Nordstrom, Target, Macy’s, etc., community members should first consider seeking out op-

Dana Point Times April May 1-7, 2020

Top: Marla Balmuth is celebrating Golden Galleon’s 40 years of business during a year of unprecedented economic fallout due to the coronavirus pandemic. She’s adapted her business to provide online and pickup orders.

Bottom: Carissa Collins (left) opened her lash studio Killer Beauty in 2019 with hopes to provide a beauty service that emphasizes minimalist beauty. This photo was taken on Tuesday, February, 4. Photos: Lillian Boyd

The Small Business Association Orange County/Inland Empire Office is holding daily Zoom calls at 2 p.m.

The SBA is now accepting Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications from approved lenders on behalf of any eligible borrower. The SBA started accepting applications on April 27 at 7:30 a.m.

The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce encourages small businesses to immediately contact their bank, or local Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).

Visit danapointchamber.org for additional resources.

tions from our local community—in support of our neighbors and also ensuring that our tax dollars stay in Dana Point,” McMurchie said.

“Most of our businesses have pivoted their operations and are making it easier than ever to shop and support with the help of online sales and curbside/no-contact service.”

A few local retailers are getting creative and offering virtual shopping experiences and shipping purchases to their customers, similarly to Golden Galleon, McMurchie says.

“A few local retailers have started selling masks, or including masks with purchases made above a certain price,” McMurchie said.

“When possible, retailers are shifting from athleisure and their typical everyday wear and are now promoting their loungewear, as we obviously have a lot of people who are spending more time at home and are therefore looking for comfortable alternatives.”

The Chamber launched its #DanaPointLoyalLocal T-shirts for businesses in the commu-

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nity to sell. These T-shirts can be purchased at various local shops and restaurants either online or via curbside pickup (shipping options available). T-shirts come in sizes XS-XXL. Participating businesses include Brio Tuscany Grille, Coffee Importers, Dana Wharf, Glasspar, Golden Galleon, Jon’s Fish Market, Lingerie Paradis USA, Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar and Woody Hut. For more information on purchasing a T-shirt, visit danapointchamber.com.

“The (#LoyalLocal) shirts have been doing really well,” Balmuth said. “I’ve been shipping them all over the country. I’ve shipped them to Illinois to a couple who has come out to visit every year and always comes to Golden Galleon.”

Balmuth says she is humbled by all of the support from both the local community and visitors who have come to know and love Dana Point.

“I’ve had customers say they saw my live video, and they call to tell me they want me to send them one of those shirts,” Balmuth said.

For more information on becoming a retail partner, email vickie@danapointchamber.com.

“The business community all has mutual respect for each other,” Balmuth said. “We all need to survive. We are in this together. We need to lift one another up to get through this.”

But while retail businesses are adjusting to stay afloat, the circumstances are that much more restrictive for salons and beauty services. Carissa Collins opened her lash studio Killer Lash last year and was embraced by the community, she says. Now closures have put deep financial strain on Killer Lash and similar businesses, especially with no end date to the lockdown.

“The hardest part is not having an end in sight to properly prepare,” Collins said. “I am constantly having to prepare for the worst-case scenario while having hope for the best case with having no proof of either actually happening.”

Collins remains optimistic and focuses on the positive.

“We are getting to slow down and be human beings, not human doings,” Collins said. “People are more aware of themselves and what they do, and the actions of others, which I think is a great thing. We are all connected. . . . That’s pretty powerful.”

While a date has yet to be set for nonessential businesses to reopen, the Orange County Board of Supervisors approved a set of guidelines on Tuesday, April 28 for businesses to follow once Gov. Gavin Newsom does issue that directive.

Collins says she has always worn a mask during services and keeps herself and staff educated on hygiene. As an esthetician, she is certified and licensed in sanitation maintenance and prevention in spreading infectious diseases. When doors reopen, she’ll go back to operating as usual but also disinfecting the doors and bathrooms more frequently.

“Before, people would feel alone in their suffering,” Collins said. “Now, they can look around and know that they aren’t alone; everyone is feeling this to some extent. I think that has brought, and will continue to bring, our community together and, my hope, even humanity.” DP

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EDITORIAL

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Senior City Editor, DP Times Lillian Boyd

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DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Bartlett Bulletin by OC Board Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

When Can Orange County Get Back to Business?

T

hat is one of the many questions being asked by residents since the governor’s stay-at-home order went into effect well over a month ago now. There is no doubt in my mind that the measures implemented by the state, and the county, have had a significant impact on reducing the spread of COVID-19. While I believe we need to continue being diligent in our efforts to fight the spread of the virus, I also believe we need to start exploring options for getting our economy up and running in what may become the new normal for our society. I am as anxious as each of you to see the fabulous Fifth District and our county THE BARTLETT thrive again, but it’s going BULLETIN to take a coordinated effort

By Lisa Bartlett between federal, state and county governments to make that happen.

We must look at the data and be able to meet the standards identified by the state and federal government before we can proceed with a phased reopening of our economy.

California’s six indicators for modifying the stay-at-home order: • The ability to monitor and protect our communities through testing, contact tracing, isolating, and supporting those who are positive or exposed; • The ability to prevent infection in people

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Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

One of the county’s priorities at this time is to expand its testing capabilities. The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) has recently launched the OC COVID-19 Testing Network to coordinate and expand testing countywide, including at least one testing location in South County. This is being done to create a safety net for any community member who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms but is unable to receive testing through a health care provider, or lacks health insurance. Currently, the HCA has partnered with six new testing locations, and is working diligently to bring more partners and locations online in the days and weeks to come. If you have been unable to receive COVID-19 testing through your medical provider, or are without health insurance and experiencing symptoms, please schedule an appointment through the new network by visiting ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus and clicking on the “COVID-19 Testing and Screening” icon. While this is a great first step

population he serves. Does he even have an understanding how viruses spread? Everyone is suffering financially, emotionally and physically hurting. We are all sacrificing. Does the need to surf, eat out, or teach yoga outweigh the need of people to be physically well? I strongly support the First Amendment, but find a safer, kinder way to express it.

FIND A SAFER WAY JOANNE GRAEF LANDEROS, Dana Point

Dana Point Times, Vol. 13, Issue 18. The DP Times (danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.

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who are at risk for more severe COVID-19; • The ability of the hospital and health systems to handle surges; • The ability to develop therapeutics to meet the demand; • The ability for businesses, schools, and child care facilities to support physical distancing; and • The ability to determine when to reinstitute certain measures, such as the stay-athome orders, if necessary.

Alan Hostetter, an organizer for the San Clemente stay-at-home order protests, and others, have every right to protest. But where is their sense of humanity?

Go stand in front of a hospital and protest about your civil liberties being violated.

These are the people you are putting at risk with your selfishness of protest. When you gather without masks or social distancing, you risk unknowingly spreading COVID-19 to others, especially those at higher risk, which ultimately puts hospital workers at risk.

Eleven hospital workers died in Los Angeles this week. What does your protest say to their families? The leader of the protest is Alan Hostetter. He owns a yoga studio and teaches yoga at the San Clemente Senior Center.

It is ironic that he may be hurting the very

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY FOR CALIFORNIA LISA HAZELTON, San Clemente

The closures in California have been frustrating, and the financial hit has caused many to have to tighten our belts. Some have felt this pain acutely. What is even more frustrating is to see governors think that they should be above having to balance the state’s checkbook just as we have to balance our own.

Many governors have now started calling for “unrestricted aid”—that’s code for a bailout.

This is not the kind of precedent we want to set. There are many states whose pension funds are on the brink of bankruptcy.

Unfortunately, there are a number of states and local governments that regularly fail to set aside money to fund their pensions

Page 7

in our ability to offer increased testing opportunities, we continue to explore additional options to further meet this need and move us one step closer to opening up our county.

The governor recently stated that over the next few weeks, if certain conditions are met, he will start to loosen or modify his statewide Stay At Home Order to allow for a phased reopening of our business community. It is vital that we continue to protect the health and safety of the community and not jeopardize or undo the progress we have made in flattening the curve of COVID-19. That being said, it is very important that we start to implement a measured and phased approach to reopening our economy. We all look forward to the day when all businesses are open once again.

In the coming weeks, we will be in a position to start reopening our economy. In the meantime, I would encourage everyone to continue to adhere to social distancing guidelines, wash your hands frequently and take other personal safety precautions, to keep everyone safe and healthy. Thank you for doing your part to ensure that we get back to business as usual in the very near future!

Lisa Bartlett sits on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, representing the 5th District.

She was reelected in 2018. DP

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times 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 DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

in order to have more money to spend on current projects. It means states are spending more than they have revenue to pay for over time. This has resulted in pension shortfalls across states between $4 trillion and $6 trillion, plus another $1 trillion in other retirement benefits, such as health insurance.

Bailing out states would set a dangerous precedent of rewarding fiscally irresponsible behavior. Californians are having to figure out how to make do in fiscally challenging times. Our state should be accountable to have to do the same.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to lboyd@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning.

Dana Point Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published. danapointtimes.com

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

Governor Orders Beaches in Orange County to Close

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO AND LILLIAN BOYD, DANA POINT TIMES

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday, April 30, issued a new order, directing all of Orange County’s beaches to close temporarily.

During his daily press briefing Thursday, Newsom said the order is targeting only Orange County’s beaches, and is “very focused” while “trying to solve a health problem; trying to mitigate one that can grow into the future.”

“We’re going to have a temporary pause on the beaches down there,” he said, emphasizing it included state and local beaches.

The governor’s order comes as a direct response to the thousands of people who flocked to some of Orange County’s beaches last weekend when a heat wave hit Southern California.

News photos of the large crowds visibly defying the state’s social distancing guidelines this past weekend, notably in Newport Beach and Huntington Beach, gained widespread media attention and drew the ire of the governor.

In a press conference on Monday, April 27, Newsom admonished the beachgoers, stating that such actions will prevent the state from continuing to make “the mean-

ingful progress we’ve made the past couple of weeks.”

Late Wednesday night, April 29, a memo that the California Police Chiefs Association sent to police chiefs throughout the state, leaked to the press, explaining that Newsom was expected to announce a statewide closure of all beaches and state parks.

Newsom on Thursday clarified that “we are going to do a hard close just in that part of the state, just that county.” The governor also said he hoped it is “a shortterm adjustment.”

Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett holds the 5th District seat, which represents coastal cities including Dana Point and San Clemente.

“I know emotions are running high, people are tired of being cooped up at home,” Bartlett told Dana Point Times. “Public safety and health is the number one priority. As we look to the future, we need to find an appropriate balance.”

Bartlett pointed to San Diego County as an example for a community effectively able to keep beaches open for active use.

“There are ways we can safely use the beach but keep everyone moving,” Bartlett said. “We have a number of members of the community who want to recreate. But we want to do everything we can to reduce the spread.”

Newsom also noted during his press briefing that Orange County is among the top four communities where the state has seen a concentration of cases.

As of April 29, there have been at total of 48,917 confirmed cases of coronavirus in California, with 1,982 fatalities, according to the California Department of Public Health. The largest pocket of cases in the state has centered on Southern California, particularly

Los Angeles County, where there have been 22,560 positive cases.

Based on the most recent data from both the state and the Orange County Health Care Agency, the number of cumulative positive cases in Orange County is roughly 2,400 with about 45 deaths.

Within the past week, the county has seen four single-day spikes of more than 100 new cases. On April 25, the county health office reported 125 new cases, then 101 new cases on April 26, 108 new cases on April 29 and 145 new cases on April 30.

About 4,000 people in California who have contracted the virus are currently hospitalized, with 1,186 of them being treated in intensive care units, the latest health department data reports. Nearly 200 of those patients are in Orange County, and among them, 63 are in ICUs. Nationwide, the U.S. this week hit a milestone in total case count, reaching more than 1 million cumulative cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 57,500 people have died of COVID-19 so far in the U.S. California Coastal Commission Chair Steve Padilla said he supports the governor’s action.

“The Coastal Commission’s entire mission is ensuring access to the coast, and I recognize that many Southern Californians will be very disappointed with the decision,” Padilla said. “However, the governor’s action will serve to protect the health, safety and lives of all Californians.

Our coast is a precious resource for all of us but today we should remember what’s most precious -- life itself and the health of our communities.”

Padilla is also a Chula Vista councilmember. He says he had COVID-19 and was hospitalized for three weeks and in ICU on a ventilator for 11 days. DP

Beachgoers enjoyed Doheny State Beach on April 16, with relatively less crowding than neighboring cities. Photo: Lillian Boyd

Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

Page 8

danapointtimes.com

DP

Dana Point Point Dana

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Community, Sustainability, Prosperity by Hoiyin Ip

Community Goodwill: The New Currency It has been about two months.

March 4 • Gov. Newsom declared State of Emergency to help the state prepare for broader spread of COVID-19.

March 16 • Gov. Newsom called for bar closures and restaurant restrictions related to social distancing.

March 19 • Gov. Newsom issued Stay at Home Order.

Within hours after the stay-at-home order, my email to Newport Beach Independent’s editor got an automatic reply: “I have been furloughed due to COVID-19 (coronavirus). Due to the mass business closures and lack of advertising revenues, Firebrand Media will temporarily postpone the printed edition of the Newport Beach Indy.” Since then, I hear “furlough” every day. Every time, my heart sinks. Luckily, Dana Point COMMUNITY, SUSTAINABILITY, Times editor Lillian Boyd PROSPERITY has not been furloughed.

By Hoiyin Ip Otherwise, Dana Pointers may have to rely on Nextdoor or Facebook for local news.

Ironically, the dire situation media faces has not got as much attention as some other types of businesses. But either way, I cannot imagine how any one of them is handling the financial and emotional pressures day after day.

March 27 • Los Angeles Times wrote on

restaurants: “Every day that help is stalled, it gets exponentially worse.”

April 16 • Inc. magazine wrote: “With the [Paycheck Protection Program’s] $349 billion fund now out of money, (there are) concerns about delayed payments and scams being perpetrated on small business owners.” Although in late April, Congress did inject another $310 billion in funding.

April 17 • CNN wrote in an online news story: “The backbone program of the $2 trillion stimulus designed to keep workers employed has been shuttered after less than two weeks. Tens of thousands of businesses did not get access to the program before it ran dry. Those businesses, many of them teetering on the brink of failure, currently have no clear pathway to survival at the moment.”

“The typical small business typically only has 30 days of cash-on-hand,” said Jacqueline Reses, head of Square Capital and a member of the newly formed Governor’s Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery. When the local small businesses go down, their spots will be filled by large corporations, the community will lose its unique character. #TooSmallToFail Quick and practical actions must be taken now to provide our people some hope for an extended stretch. Who can run a citywide campaign fundraiser?

Dana Point’s population is 34,249. If everyone pitches in for $5, it would be $171,245. It won’t save the day for the local small businesses. But the community

Every week, the Dana Point Times will showcase a historical photo from around the city. If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, send the photo, your name for cred, as well as the date and location of the photo to lboyd@picketfencemedia.com.

impact would be the foundation as we plan the reopening.

Community goodwill will be the new currency.

Hoiyin Ip is often recognized on the street as the plastic lady for her cleanup work. But she likes to think of herself as a guardian of the ocean. She is often reminded of a quote by

former California Coastal Commission Executive Director Peter Douglas: “The coast is never saved. It’s always being saved.” DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, Dana Point Times 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 Dana Point Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

BY MYLES MELLOR

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 Last week’s solution:

DANA POINT TIMES

T

Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

FROM THE ARCHIVES Wilfred and Anne Murray of Los Angeles and Lucy and Simon Healy of San Diego were photographed in Capistrano Beach in the early 1920s.

Anne and Lucy were sisters, and the two couples would meet halfway between their houses in Capistrano Beach.

Sudoku

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Colette his blue-eyed beauty is Colette, a 7-year-old Siamese looking for her “purrfect” home. Colette is an independent gal with an easy-going personality. She enjoys living the quiet life and likes to spend her days lounging in the sun or birdwatching. Like most cats, Colette enjoys petting and lap time on her terms. She would make a great companion for an experienced owner.

If you are interested in adopting Colette, please visit petprojectfoundation.org. Completed doption application forms can be emailed

Photo: Courtesy of OC Public Libraries

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

to animalservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. DP

Page 10

See the solution in next week’s issue.

danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Luke Williams, a 2015 Dana Hills High graduate, had been in the midst of an extended spring training look with the Philadelphia Phillies when baseball and all sports were put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. Photo: Philadelphia Phillies

Growth Stunted

Dana Hills alumni were set for big chances in 2020 baseball season

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

As the calendar turns to May, baseball season should be well underway.

However, as the coronavirus pandemic swept across the globe, it left stadiums, diamonds and batting cages empty across the country.

The high school baseball season was put on hold just as league play began. The college baseball season was just under a month old when play was stopped. In the professional ranks, spring training was cut short, and the regular season has yet to be given a starting date.

Several Dana Point natives and Dana Hills High School alumni were ready to get their professional seasons going to try to break through into the major league ranks.

Let’s check in with some of those players and where they sat after last season and entering the potential 2020 season: Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

HANS CROUSE The quirky 21-year-old right-hander had been the Texas Rangers’ No. 1 prospect in 2019, but a season beset by injury had pushed Crouse down to the team’s No. 7 overall prospect and No. 2 pitching prospect.

Despite being sidelined for a month and seeing his innings limited due to a bone spur in his elbow that required surgery, Crouse had a successful 2019 with the Class-A Hickory Crawdads in North Carolina. The 2017 second-round pick posted career highs in innings pitched (87 2/3), games started (19) and strikeouts (76) on the way to the best win-loss record of his young career at 6-1.

The downside may have come from those bone spurs affecting his throwing, as Crouse compiled a career-high 4.41 ERA after having posted a 2.47 ERA in 2018 and a 0.45 ERA in 10 games of rookie ball in 2017.

Crouse’s fastball velocity was slightly down, but his slider was still strong. He is also developing his changeup.

“The thing with Hans is the creativity he has on the mound,” Rangers pitching coordinator Danny Clark told the Dallas Morning News. “It’s a unique delivery, but it’s a unique skill set. The one thing with Hans is

that he has the ability to get a lot of swings and misses on a lot of different pitches.”

When or if the regular season begins, Crouse should figure to play for the Down East Wood Ducks, an Advanced-A Carolina League affiliate in Kinston, N.C.

LUKE WILLIAMS The 23-year-old infielder might be one of the more disappointed players on this list about having the season put on hold.

The 2015 third-round pick was in his sixth season in the Philadelphia Phillies system and was in the midst of his longest spring training look to date.

Williams played in two spring games in 2018 and six in 2019. This spring in Clearwater, Fla., Williams played in 14 games and collected nine hits in 23 at-bats for a .391 batting average. Williams racked up six runs and three RBI, with one double and one home run. Williams added two stolen bases.

In 2019 with the Double-A Reading Fightin’ Phils in Pennsylvania, Williams posted career highs with 125 games, 105 hits, 30 doubles, 11 home runs, 77 runs, 51 RBI and 30 stolen bases. Williams batted .238, with a .319 on-base percentage and .395 slugging percentage. He also played at least one game at every defensive position except pitcher and catcher.

Page 11

PETER TAGO After taking a long road back to a majorleague spring training roster, the 27-year-old right-hander joins Williams as another of the more disappointed players to be sitting at home and not on a Florida ballfield.

Tago was picked No. 47 overall out of Dana Hills High School by the Colorado Rockies in a compensation round of the 2010 MLB Draft. From there, Tago put in seven years of minor-league ball for nine different teams in three separate MLB teams’ systems. Tago earned short spring training stints with the Chicago White Sox in 2016 and the Seattle Mariners in 2017.

Tago had worked up to the Double-A level but decided to retire after the 2017 season at age 25. Tago then went to Arizona to be a baseball coach, but he didn’t end his dream.

In 2019, Tago played independent league baseball in Mexico, Iowa and Pennsylvania, compiling a 9-4 record with a 3.69 ERA and 118 strikeouts in 40 appearances.

Tago signed a minor league contract with the Mets in December 2019 and received a spring training invite to Port St. Lucie, Fla., in February.

In spring training, Tago pitched in two games for the Mets, allowing one hit and two walks in 1 1/3 innings of relief. DP danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

LOCALS ONLY

BUSINESS LISTINGS

TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 100 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a public hearing, via teleconference, will be held in accordance with Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-2520, by the Planning Commission of the City of Dana Point to consider the following: Major Antenna Use Permit AUP19-0001 and Variance V19-0001 located at 34381 Calle Portola: A Major Antenna Use Permit (AUP) and Variance to allow the installation of a 50 foot high, stealth freestanding, commercial wireless telecommunication antenna facility (CWTAF) to be designed as a mono-tree, with variances to allow the proposed CWTAF within 500 feet of another CWTAF, and to exceed the 35-foot height limit in the Community Facilities Zoning District.

The hearing for this application was continued from the April 13, 2020 Planning Commission meeting.

After the original noticing for this application was processed, the applicant provided an alternative design and location to the original proposal which is located closer to the existing CWTAF. Project Number: Project Location: Applicant: Owner: Environmental:

Hearing Date: Hearing Time: Hearing Location:

Major Antenna Use Permit AUP19-0001 and Variance V19-0001 34381 Calle Portola (APN 123-392-01) Smart Link on behalf of AT&T Faith Lutheran Church of Capistrano Beach Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the project is categorically exempt per Section 15303 of the CEQA Guidelines (Class 3 – Construction and Conversion of Small Structures).

May 11, 2020 6:00 PM (or as soon thereafter as possible) The public is invited to view this meeting via The City of Dana Point YouTube Channel

All persons either favoring or opposing this proposal are invited to present their views on the above referenced project to the Director during this teleconference public hearing. Participants are encouraged to submit their written comments prior to the teleconference to dgiometti@danapoint.org.

Note: If you challenge the action taken on this proposal in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Dana Point prior to the public hearing.

For further information, please contact Danny Giometti, Associate Planner at the City of Dana Point, Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, (949) 248-3569.

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a public hearing, via teleconference, will be held in accordance with Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-2520, by the Planning Commission of the City of Dana Point to consider the following: Coastal Development Permit CDP20-0002: A Dana Point Times May 1–7, 2020

request to permit the demolition of an existing single-family dwelling and construct a new single-story single family residence consistent with applicable development standards of the Residential Single Family 7 (RSF7) zoning district with Planned Residential Overlay 3 (PRD3), located at 23562 Verrazanno Bay. Project Number: Project Location: Applicant: Owner: Environmental:

Hearing Date: Hearing Time: Hearing Location:

CDP20-0002 23562 Verrazanno Bay (APN 672-081-08) Hector and Bettina Gonzalez Hector and Bettina Gonzalez Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the project is categorically exempt per Section 15303 of the CEQA Guidelines (Class 3 – Construction or Conversion of Small Structures) due to the fact that the project consists of the construction of a new single-story single family residence.

Monday, May 11, 2020 6:00 PM (or as soon thereafter as possible) The public is invited to view this meeting via The City of Dana Point YouTube Channel

All persons either favoring or opposing this proposal are invited to present their views on the above referenced project to the Director during this teleconference public hearing. Participants are encouraged to submit their written comments prior to the teleconference to snicholas@danapoint.org.

Note: This project may be appealed to the City Council. If you challenge the action taken on this proposal in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Dana Point prior to the public hearing. This project may also be appealed to the California Coastal Commission in accordance with Dana Point Municipal Code Section 9.69.090. The process includes, but is not limited to contacting the Coastal Commission for the appropriate forms and instructions to file an appeal.

For further information, please contact Sean Nicholas, Senior Planner at the City of Dana Point, Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, (949) 2483588, or snicholas@danapoint.org.

Complete your required legal or public notice advertising in the Dana Point Times.

• Fictitious Business Notice (FBN/DBA) • Name Changes • Lien Sale • Alcoholic Beverage License • Notice to Creditors • Petitions for Probate • Trustee Sale • Summons – Divorce – Civil ...and more EMAIL legals@picketfencemedia.com CALL 949.388.7700, ext. 100

Page 12

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Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program 665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, San Clemente, 949.485.4979, info@bodymindspiritiop.com, www.bodymindspiritiop.com

AUTO REPAIR

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34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086

CAFE - DELI

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COFFEE SHOP

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Scoop Deck

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

State Farm/Elaine LaVine

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MASSAGE THERAPY

Paul Svoboda CAMTC #76690 Monarch Beach Studio or Outcall, 310.387.2560 MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School

24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

Yeungs Violin Studio

949.388.4038, heilingyeung@hotmail.com www.yeungsschoolofviolin.com/violinestudio

PLUMBING

A to Z Leak Detection

1001 Calle Recodo, San Clemente, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com

Bill Metzger Plumbing

1001 Calle Recodo, San Clemente, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com

UPHOLSTERY & INTERIORS

Jeddy’s Interiors

34118 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. 2, 949.240.9569. www.jeddys.com

WANT TO BE FEATURED HERE? Email lloynes@picketfencemedia.com for pricing.

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or email lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point area every week?

Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times.

Call us today!

Contact Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700 ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

Page 13

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Possible Lease Extension for San Onofre

GROM OF THE WEEK

REX HOFFMAN

Camp Pendleton Expresses Support for 3-year extension to lease at San Onofre State Beach

Rex Hoffman. Photo: Courtesy of the Hoffman family

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

G

ood news is at a premium these days, and last week all the surfers who live for those long, sunny days at San Onofre enjoyed a ray of sunshine.

The U.S. Marine Corps base Camp Pendleton announced it is in support of a short-term extension to the state’s lease of San Onofre State Park.

The current lease is set to expire on August 31, 2021, but this new option would extend that period through August of 2024.

“The Department of the Navy is carefully considering the state’s request and working cooperatively with the state on how to move forward. To support this cooperation and future collaboration, Marine Corps Installations West-Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton supports a three-year extension of the current lease to give the Department of the Navy an opportunity to complete the work necessary to execute any succeeding lease, including updating existing surveys,” Camp Pendleton states in a press release dated April 24.

Obviously, this is a big deal for local surfers. San Onofre State Beach is one of the most utilized beaches in all of California, with generations of surfers being raised on its cobblestone shore.

The Department of the Navy owns the land on which Camp Pendleton sits, including San Onofre State Beach. The area that’s

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

San Onofre Trails looking fun and empty before the COVID-19 lockdown. Photo: Jake Howard

currently being leased goes from San Mateo Point (Cottons) all the way through Trail 6 at the Bluffs Campground and is made up of nearly 2,000 acres of land in Orange and San Diego counties.

“This is only an interim solution, but it will provide the Department of the Navy with additional time to work towards a longer, more comprehensive lease agreement for the future,” San Onofre Parks Foundation says in a press release.

Surfrider Foundation, which has been a staunch advocate for preserving this unique coastal environment, is also in support of the Navy extending the lease for another three years.

“Surfrider believes a lease extension will provide the Department of the Navy (DON), which owns the Camp Pendleton property, with a path towards planning for a long-term lease renewal of San Onofre. The timing of the park lease extension would coincide with the decommissioning and dismantlement of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS). In 2024, an easement between Camp Pendleton and SONGS’ operators is set to expire. Surfrider believes a park lease extension will provide the DON

with additional time to collectively analyze the issues regarding the park and SONGS leases,” explains Surfrider’s Stefanie SekichQuinn.

At present, the decommissioning process at SONGS has been curtailed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This will affect the costs and timelines of the project.

There are undoubtedly serious issues ahead for San Onofre and how surfers will be able to enjoy the sacred space in the future. The long-term lease with the Navy and the decommissioning of SONGS are two things that won’t be solved overnight, but with an extra three years to breathe and make the best decisions possible, this latest development definitely falls into the “good news” category.

Jake Howard is local surfer and freelance writer who lives in San Clemente. A former editor at Surfer Magazine, The Surfer’s Journal and ESPN, today he writes for a number of publications, including the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times, Surfline and the World Surf League. He also works with philanthropic organizations such as the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center and the Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation. DP

Dana Point Surf Club Steps Up for Seniors Hosting food drive for seniors this Saturday, DPSC makes giving back a priority

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

“W

e had to do something; it was time,” says Eric Diamond, president of the Dana Point

Surf Club.

This Saturday, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Dana Point Community Center, the surf club will be hosting a food drive for seniors in the community.

Partnering with Rubicon and the city of Dana Point, the club is rallying to help the Dana Point Times May 1-7, 2020

older friends in our community make sure that even through these challenging times, they’ve got enough to eat.

“As we are beginning to hopefully see a little light ahead in the tunnel with these uncertain times, we have decided it was time to get out of our heads for a moment and give back to the community, and most importantly, be of service locally,” says Diamond. “When we set out to create this club, these were the things I felt we could

rise up and make a difference, more than just surf-centric endeavors; this is one of those moments.”

Members of the Dana Point Surf Club will be collecting dried, canned and nonperishable goods to keep the pantries of our seniors in need stocked and stoked.

On Saturday, they will be at the Community Center wearing their protective personal equipment, taking the utmost caution, as they collect donations. DP Page 14

O

nly 5 years young and already frothed out, it’s hard to imagine there’s anyone around town these days having more fun than Rex Hoffman.

If you were wondering how to pass the time during some of these slow, lockdown days, look no further than the little goofy-footer for inspiration. Having a ball in the micro surf we’ve had on offer lately, his surf game is getting strong at spots such as Salt Creek and Capo Beach.

But maybe it shouldn’t come as a huge surprise given his DNA. His older sister, Indie, is already on her way. Sponsored by Sistrevolution, she’s a stylist on any board and has been putting her time in learning how to shape from Josh Martin.

And then there’s the whole Hoffman legacy, including true originals Walter and Flippy Hoffman, and barrier-smashing Joyce Hoffman.

Before the world went on lockdown, Rex posted a big win at the Surf for the Sea in the Micro Groms 6-and-under division. And when he’s not absolutely shredding in the water, Rex keeps himself busy on a snowboard, skateboard or dirt bike, or even by snagging fish.

It’s a grom’s life, and Rex is living the dream. DP

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 64-66 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-12’ Outlook: New Northwest swell moves in Friday as old South/southeast swell drops, setting up waist-stomach high surf, (2-3’+), as light onshore winds in the morning rise to light+/moderate westerly flow for the afternoon. Blend of Northwest and Southwest swells maintain waist-stomach high waves, (2-3’+) through the weekend. Light+ southerly winds in the mornings, shift to 6-10kt+ westerly afternoon flow on Saturday and Sunday.

danapointtimes.com