July 31, 2020

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July 31-August 6, 2020 YO U

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A Summer with No Surf Contests PAGE 14 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 31

Turning Tassels Dana Hills Celebrates Class of 2020 with Modified Ceremony E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 6

Dana Hills High School graduates finally were able to celebrate with a ceremony after the initial graduation was postponed in June due to COVID-19. Photo: Lillian Boyd

Dana Hills Football Grapples with Delay Until January SPORTS/PAGE 13

City Council Votes on Short-Term Rental Pilot Program EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

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City Launches #MaskUpDP Campaign to Prevent Spread EYE ON DP/PAGE 6

GO TO DANAPOINTTIMES.COM FOR THE LATEST NEWS, EVENTS AND SPORTS

Dana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week Debra Lewis Resigns from City Council THE LATEST: Councilmember Debra Lewis submitted her resignation on Tuesday, July 28, effective immediately.

Lewis’s Dana Point home went in escrow, and she will be moving to Palos Verdes to be closer to her daughter, son-inlaw and grandchildren, she says.

The resignation comes during the Dana Point City Council’s summer break. The most recent meeting was held on Tuesday, July 21, and the next meeting is not scheduled until September.

“I wanted to make an announcement during a meeting, but as of last week, the circumstances were uncertain,” Lewis told Dana Point Times.

Lewis was first elected in November 2016, and her term would have lasted through this year. Had she decided to run for reelection, she would have bid for the District 4 seat, since the city transitioned toward districted elections in 2018.

“The City thanks Debra for her service to Dana Point, and we wish her well in all her future endeavors,” Mike Killebrew, Dana Point City Manager, said in a press release.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to the city’s attorney, Patrick Muñoz, the city council will have 60 days to determine if they will appoint a replacement for the remainder of Lewis’s term or hold an election. Otherwise, council will be comprised of four members in Lewis’s absence.—Lillian Boyd

City Staff to Pursue Pilot Program for Short-Term Rentals THE LATEST: Dana Point City Council voted on a short-term rental pilot program during its July 21 meeting.

Short-term rentals are defined as entire residential houses or apartments, or rooms within, that are rented out to visitors for a fee between one and 29 consecutive days.

Short-term rentals are often arranged on websites such as Airbnb, Home Away or Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO).

The agenda item, which also included a report on a survey conducted on attitudes toward short-term rentals and regulation, came at the direction of the Short-Term Rental Subcommittee—comprised of Councilmembers Dana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

Paul Wyatt and Debra Lewis. The subcommittee first met in April 2018 to evaluate and update municipal code regulations pertaining to short-term rentals (STRs).

On Oct. 1, 2019, city council then directed the city manager to conduct a survey focused on STR policy to obtain public feedback on the community’s position on STRs. The city contracted with FM3 Research, a firm that surveyed 500 registered voters in Dana Point from March 12-18 of this year.

According to the staff presentation, the survey was designed to obtain the community’s feedback on the different types of STRs, as well as their opinion on the currently operating STRs. The three types of STRs evaluated in the survey included homestay, primary residence, and non-primary residence.

California Coastal Commission (CCC) staff met with the subcommittee in February, when it was reportedly suggested that the city develop an STR pilot program that would allow for regulations, community compatibility and coastal access. Ultimately, the program would still require CCC approval of a coastal development permit (CDP).

Following the meeting, the subcommittee developed a framework for the pilot program to present to council. Homestay STRs (which require the homeowner to be present when the unit is rented) would be permitted with on-site management and oversight. There would be no more than two bedrooms designated for a homestay rental, there would be parking requirements, trash management, compliance with homeowner association regulations, and neighbors would be notified. There would be an annual permit renewal, and the trial would be a three-year period.

A series of public workshops would have been scheduled for the pilot program. At the end of the trial period, if the pilot would have been “proven to be successful,” the city would move forward in processing a Local Coastal Program Amendment and Zoning Text Amendment,

in order to adopt the regulations.

According to FM3, approximately a third of the responses wanted either more short-term rentals or no changes, and a third preferred to add more regulations.

Approximately a quarter of respondents wanted to reduce the number of existing short-term rental permits.

FM3 defined three types of short-term rentals in the survey: homestays are where the homeowner rents out a portion of their home for between one and 29 consecutive days and the homeowner continues to live there at all times while visitors are renting; a primary residence is when a homeowner rents out their own primary residence to visitors for between one and 29 consecutive days while the homeowner is traveling or living elsewhere; and a nonprimary residence is where a property owner rents out homes other than their primary residence to visitors for between one and 29 consecutive days.

“A small majority of voters favor allowing their neighbors to offer homestay shortterm rentals, and to rent out their full primary residence, but oppose allowing property owners to rent out non-primary residences next to them on a short-term basis,” according to the FM3 report.

FM3 also found that the most common reasons for residents to oppose STRs are safety concerns from unknown people coming in and out, parking and noise.

The most common reasons for supporting STRs are support of property rights to rent, supplemental income for owners, bringing in tourists to boost the local economy and the expectation that STRs do not impact residents.

“For current short-tern rental permits, a plurality of voters prefer allowing them to continue to operate, but with additional regulations,” the report states. “About a third want them expanded or to keep the same number of permits with no changes.

About a quarter want to reduce the number existing short-term rental permits.”

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A majority opposes allowing non-primary residence rentals next door to them.

“Something that needs to be addressed, which isn’t really in the survey but in the workshop, and that is the utter lack of enforcement when it comes to short-term rentals,” Lewis said.

The pilot program is entirely silent on the existing permits, city staff said.

Wyatt motioned to approve the recommended action of receiving and filing the survey report and moving forward with the pilot program. The motion did not receive a second; therefore, the motion died.

Councilmember Jamey Federico motioned to receive and file the report and move forward with the pilot program while expanding it beyond homestays to all the defined short-term rental types.

“I have no idea what it is we’re even voting on, and for that reason alone, I would vote no,” Lewis said. “Without being able to meet and have these workshops, I’m not even sure what it means to direct staff to proceed with anything, because the workshops are all part of the program.”

With social distancing directives in place due to COVID-19, public meetings are limited to certain capacity.

“This is not something that needs to be in an LCP; it’s something the city can manage,” Councilmember Joe Muller said. “My biggest problem is this city always tries to be perfect. There is no perfect ordinance.

There’s always going to be someone unhappy with an ordinance . . . we need to take a stance, look at all short-term rentals.”

While Muller seconded Federico’s motion, he argued that CCC is exerting itself into the sovereignty of the City of Dana Point.

“The fact that (CCC) thinks homestays are going to increase coastal access is laughable to me,” Muller said. “We need stricter enforcement regulation, and we’ve talked about this for years. The one thing that wasn’t in this report was how to enforce.”

Mayor Richard Viczorek pointed out that if the pilot program was written into the LCP, any future amendments would need approval from the CCC. “Sure, let’s have a trial period,” Viczorek said. “When I look at the results that say 3% of (surveyed people) are interested (in STRs), that shows me not too many people are interested . . . it doesn’t seem like the overall community is up in arms with our trial period.”

Federico amended his motion to remove the directed action to submit an amended LCP to CCC. “My understanding is that our zoning currently does not allow short-term rentals and that in order to allow them, zoning laws have to change,” Wyatt said. “And to change zoning laws in the coastal zone requires a change in the LCP. Is that correct?”

“Everything you stated is correct,” said City Attorney Patrick Muñoz.

Muñoz added that per his conversations with CCC, the City of Dana Point is getting (Cont. on page 4) danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 3) a “free pass” in pursuing this pilot program without having to first pursue an amendment to the LCP. Lewis made a substitute motion that no matter what this council passes, it will not take effect until voters pass it on a ballot by at least 50%. Wyatt seconded the motion.

The substitute motion failed in a 3-2 vote, with Viczorek, Muller and Federico dissenting. Federico’s motion passed in a 3-2 vote, with Lewis and Wyatt dissenting.—LB

OC Board of Education Sues Newsom over Campus Closures THE LATEST: The Orange County Board of Education (OCBE) plans to take legal action against Gov. Gavin Newsom and the head of the state’s public health office over the governor’s recent order that effectively keeps campuses closed and necessitates the continued use of virtual learning for the start of the upcoming school year.

The OCBE voted, 4-0, during a closed session on Tuesday, July 28, to file the lawsuit, which seeks a court order setting aside the state’s order that temporarily prevents on-campus, in-person instruction. In a July 17 announcement, Newsom had said California schools only could physically reopen when their county was off the state’s COVID-19 monitoring list for 14 consecutive days.

OCBE President Ken Williams read a statement after the closed session explaining the board’s decision.

“The California Supreme Court has interpreted the California Constitution to require that California school children have a constitutional right to substantially equal opportunities for learning,” Williams said.

“The state has the broad responsibility to ensure basic educational equality.”

Williams said the July 17 order does not ensure that children of working single parents are adequately educated through virtual learning or provide sufficient instruction and supervision for children of immigrant parents who encounter language barriers.

“Further, the state has failed to address how high-risk students and those without adequate parental support will navigate the coming weeks and months through distance learning,” Williams said. “Therefore, we believe the July 17 order violates the constitutional rights of our students.”

Students and families should have the option of in-person learning, Williams said.

OCBE had previously recommended reopening schools. During a special meeting on July 13, the OCBE approved a white paper outlining their recommendations, drawing national attention by advocating for reopening without safety measures such as face masks and social distancing.

The board’s recommendations were not mandates that could be enforced, because individual school districts have the authority to decide their own local school policies.

Dana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

The OCBE had approved the white paper, which is defined as an authoritative report or guide, by a 4-1 vote. Trustees Williams, Tim Shaw, Lisa Sparks, and Mari Barke voted yes. Trustee Rebecca “Beckie” Gomez voted no.

Gomez reportedly did not attend the July 28 discussion on OCBE’s lawsuit or vote on it. Gomez previously had spoken against the reopening recommendations approved by the other OCBE trustees.

Attorneys for OCBE will reportedly represent the board pro bono in the lawsuit.

Members of the public variously spoke for and against OCBE taking legal action against the state during the July 28 meeting.

Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD)—comprising areas including San Clemente, Dana Point, and San Juan Capistrano—announced it will begin the 2020-21 school year with distance learning, per Newsom’s mandate.

Before Newsom’s order, the CUSD Board of Trustees approved a flexible reopening plan that allowed for in-person and virtual learning, with face coverings, social distancing, and reduced class sizes required during on-campus activities.—Collin Breaux

San Juan and Dana Point Approve Stonehill Drive Improvement Project THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council and Dana Point City Council approved a cost sharing and cooperative agreement for an improvement project along Stonehill Drive on Tuesday, July 21.

Potential traffic concerns along Stonehill Drive and at the intersection of Stonehill Drive and Del Obispo Street were identified during the environmental review process for the Ganahl Lumber Project on which the City of San Juan Capistrano has been working. The traffic areas are generally in Dana Point, and “for several months” staff from both cities have reportedly worked together to discuss potential traffic mitigation for both areas.

“We identified the option to improve Stonehill in the easterly direction from Del Obispo to Camino Capistrano, the way everyone goes to the freeway in the morning,” San Juan Capistrano Assistant City Manager Charlie View said when discussing the agreement.

The agreement would be effective only after land sale of the Lower Rosan Ranch property from San Juan to Ganahl Lumber is completed. The sale is expected to come to the San Juan Capistrano council for consideration in September.

Dana Point officials estimate that the estimated cost of the overall project is about $1.3 million. Dana Point would be the lead agency on the project. A third lane could be added in the eastbound direction on Stonehill Drive under the project, generally between Del Obispo and the I-5 freeway.

The agreement identifies a share of $445,000 of the total project cost to the

City of San Juan Capistrano, and under the agreement, San Juan would contribute $400,000 as payment to the project.

The remaining $45,000 would be applied as Dana Point’s investment for construction of the future skate park project in San Juan.

“The skate park has been thought to be located in the location of the sports park and The Ecology Center, and that is in very close proximity to the city of Dana Point,” View said. “Dana Point has readily agreed that is a mutually beneficial project also. They have agreed to spend $25,000 a year towards maintenance of the skateboard project when that is constructed.”

“The City of Dana Point looks forward to working with San Juan Capistrano on all of these items and many more in the future that are of interest and importance to both communities,” said Matt Sinacori, Dana Point’s director of public works.

—CB

State, County See Unemployment Rate Drop in June THE LATEST: The unemployment rate in the state and county fell slightly in June, showing signs of improvement as additional sectors of California’s economy were permitted to reopen last month.

Statewide, unemployment dropped to 14.9% in June, down from the 16.3% recorded in May, according to the latest jobs report from the Employment Development Department. Orange County’s unemployment rate also trended downward last month, decreasing from 14.5% to 13.7%.

And across the three South County cities of San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, the unemployment rate fell for all three, with San Clemente showing the largest month-over improvement, going from 13.3% in May to 12% in June.

Dana Point experienced a similar drop in unemployment, from 13.2% percent in May to 12% in June. San Juan Capistrano’s unemployment dropped to 11.6%, 1% less than what had been reported the previous month.

The state attributed the overall drop in unemployment last month to significant growth in the economic sectors that had been most impacted by the initial stayat-home order issued at the start of the pandemic.

Of the 11 industry sectors of California’s economy, nine of them, the state said, saw job gains. Among those was the leisure and hospitality sector, as it “had the largest jobs gain due to growth in accommodation and food services, which benefited from statewide reopenings of bars and dine-in restaurants.”

Gov. Gavin Newsom last month allowed counties to begin moving into Stage 3, which gave bars, in particular,

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as well as gyms and movie theaters, the green light to reopen with modifications.

In Orange County, the growth in leisure and hospitality played a significant role in its unemployment drop as well, adding 44,000 jobs, or roughly 61.5% of the total jobs the county had regained in June.

The leisure and hospitality sector—the county’s hardest-hit sector throughout the pandemic—comprises such industries as arts and entertainment, amusement, gambling and recreation, as well as food services and drinking places.

At the start of the pandemic in March, the county lost about 87,500 of those jobs.

The latest jobs report notes that the sector had 167,400 jobs available this past June, 65,400 fewer compared to the same month the year before.

According to the employment department, leisure and hospitality had the highest month-over increase for Orange County in June, with 62% of that growth coming from the accommodation and food services arm, “led by advances in food services and drinking places.”

Except for government, all of Orange County’s economic sectors added jobs in the month of June. Behind leisure and hospitality, the sectors of trade, transportation and utilities contributed to the county’s growth, by collectively adding 8,000 jobs. About 86% of those jobs represented expansion in retail trade.

The latest jobs report, however, comes weeks after the governor had dialed back some of his reopening plans amid a spike in coronavirus cases, potentially losing some ground on the progress that’s been made.

This month, California has seen record numbers of new daily cases. On Tuesday, July 21, the state posted its highest dayto-day change in positive cases since the start of the health crisis, with 12,807.

The surge in cases since the start of the month prompted Newsom to reissue orders for all bars to close. He also mandated that certain indoor operations in counties on the state’s watch list had to close because of increasing coronavirus cases.

Sectors in Orange County such as restaurants and wineries, which saw growth in jobs last month, have been ordered to cease indoor activities, but are still allowed to provide outdoor, open-air services.

Newsom this week gave barbers and salons the go-ahead to perform services outdoors. That order came a week after initially telling such businesses within counties on the watch list to close.

The city and the San Clemente Downtown Business Association this month launched “Open San Clemente,” an initiative allowing restaurants along Avenida Del Mar to use the parking spaces in front of their establishments to offer open-air dining.

WHAT’S NEXT: Data on how the governor’s rollback on reopenings will impact the state’s economy is set for release on Aug. 21.—Shawn Raymundo danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

City Launches #MaskUpDP Campaign to Encourage Wearing Face Masks The City of Dana Point, in partnership with the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and Visit Dana Point, has launched the information campaign #MaskUpDP to encourage actions to help slow the spread of coronavirus.

The program includes decals and signs for use by local businesses to remind people to wear a mask in shops and public spaces when you can’t keep a 6-foot distance from others; wash your hands; maintain a 6-foot distance from those not in your household; and can't get outside. The City and Chamber will be distributing the materials to local businesses at no charge.

Businesses that want the materials to post can go to danapointchamber.com/maskupdp or call the Chamber at 949.496.1555.

A benefit to being in Dana Point is the diversity of outdoor activities that are available for residents and visitors, says Dana Point Mayor Richard Viczorek.

“We live in such a great place. From our beaches to trails and parks, there is so much to do. Plus, many of our businesses are getting creative in how they are using outdoor space to serve their customers— and the City is doing what it can to support innovative ideas that still encourage a safe environment,” Viczorek said The City and Chamber will be sharing more information on their social media platforms, as well as inviting local business leaders to share their message about #MaskUpDP. “To slow the spread of the coronavirus and support an open and thriving economy, we must all continue practicing public safety measures—including wearing a mask when in public,” said Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Vickie McMurchie. “We are all understandably eager to get back to ‘normal,’ and a simple endeavor like wearing a face mask will not only show that you support local merchants, but also ensure that businesses continue to remain open.”

Border Patrol Arrests 19 in Smuggling Event at Calafia Border Patrol agents arrested 19 individuals involved in an attempted smuggling event at Calafia Beach in San Clemente on Tuesday morning, July 28, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

A panga boat carrying 17 people onDana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

City of Dana Point, in conjunction with the city’s Chamber of Commerce, has launched a campaign promoting face masks to slow the spread of coronavirus. Photo: Pexels

board landed at Calafia after a border agent spotted them in the water approaching the shore at around 4:45 a.m., authorities said.

After landing on the beach, the group of passengers, all Mexican nationals, got into a sedan that had been waiting for them nearby, according to the agency.

The driver of the sedan, a Guatemalan citizen, and all 17 boat passengers—14 males and three females—were arrested, authorities said. The agency also arrested a citizen from El Salvador hours later in connection with the smuggling attempt.

Authorities were unable to provide details on how the Salvadoran national was located, as of press time.

Both the Guatemalan and Salvadoran citizens, who officials said were in the U.S. illegally, are being charged with felony alien smuggling, according to the agency.

Mask-Sewing Group Honored with Congressional Proclamation A local sewing group that has stitched together more than 11,000 face masks to help support area hospitals and nonprofits since the start of the public health crisis has been honored with a congressional proclamation from Rep. Mike Levin (DCA).

The SEWers of South Orange County (SOSOC), comprising women from Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, have volunteered countless hours to assemble face coverings, which were donated to nearby medical centers and organizations that have been on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic.

Earlier this month, the SOSOC reached a milestone with its 10,000th donated mask since late March, when the group formed.

To mark the milestone, Levin drafted the proclamation on July 4 to recognize the SOSOC and its founder, Louise Herbert.

Herbert, the proclamation states, is honored “for her community service and organization of the SEWers of South Orange County, to commemorate the delivery of the ten thousandth mask to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, to those both vulnerable and precious in our community and beyond.”

The proclamation also highlighted the group’s growth since late March, when Herbert first began sewing together masks. It has since become a “power group of volunteers” who distributed 10,000 masks in just three months.

“SOSOC started with a small group of volunteers with few supplies, one pattern, and fabric they donated themselves; this intrepid team delivered their first 37 masks to Mission Hospital,” the proclamation said. “And SOSOC now delivers hun-

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dreds of masks, on a weekly basis.”

This past April, Herbert, a San Clemente resident and member of the Democratic Women of South Orange County, started the group after being motivated by a virtual town hall Levin had held on Facebook.

She began to experiment with some patterns she had, leading to her sewing several masks. Looking for help, she put out a call for volunteers to assemble more homemade face coverings using bed sheets, T-shirts and other fabrics.

Neighbors and friends, she said, began receiving emails from her, asking if they would like make masks from their own homes while she handled distribution.

From there, the SEWers of South OC formed.

On Friday, July 24, Herbert said she felt overwhelming pride for the group after first hearing of the proclamation from Levin’s office.

“I am amazed at how our group has held together for almost four months, and how they have stayed committed, and everyone has worked to get people and friends to donate funds, so we can buy elastic and materials,” Herbert said.

Since the early days of the group, when there were roughly six active members, SOSOC has grown to nearly two dozen members, Herbert said.

“I had about six people sewing, and that was sewing from what we each had in our closets, and then I started having fabric donated by JOANN (Fabric and Craft Store) and Coral Thrift Store,” she said, adding that over time, “I grew to 22 sewers, of which there are 12 who are prolific.”

Many of the initial masks the group donated went to organizations such as Mission Hospital, clinics in Orange and Laguna Hills, as well as Trader Joe’s in San Clemente and the United Consumer Food Workers Union.

Several more organizations have been added to the group’s distribution list, including Alzheimer’s Orange County, Children of the Nations, Meals on Wheels, Orange County Board and Care Homes and the San Juan Boys and Girls Club.

Though the group is on a roll, distributing hundreds of masks weekly, Herbert said she’s always looking for additional volunteers to become a member of the SOSOC, as well as those willing to donate money to the group to purchase supplies.

Herbert stressed that the group of volunteers represents a variety of backgrounds, regardless of political affiliation or religion, and that their main goal is the care and safety of all people here.

To volunteer with the SEWers of South OC, email Herbert at louhsc52@gmail.com.

Have something interesting for the community?

Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com danapointtimes.com

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Dana Hills Celebrates Class of 2020 with Modified Ceremony

BY LILLIAN BOYD, DANA POINT TIMES

Dana Hills High School’s Class of 2020 held a modified graduation ceremony on Friday, July 24, that implemented social distancing and face mask policies.

While graduation is typically held in June each year for Dana Hills, the novel coronavirus pandemic canceled and postponed ceremonies for graduating seniors across the globe. Students within Capistrano Unified School District were forced to carry out their coursework through distance learning.

In April, surveys were sent to students, parents and principals to gauge how graduation should proceed, 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% wanted 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.

With high schools having moved forward with the delayed ceremony, Dana Hills Principal Brad Baker said the event was as good, if not better, than previous ceremonies, considering the circumstances.

“If you think about what makes a traditional ceremony special, it’s the fact that teachers, staff and families are celebrating our students’ accomplishments and the relationships we have with them,” Baker said. “We were still able to honor both of those things in a different and creative way that made the ceremony special and authentic.”

Rather than gathering on the football field and filling the stadium with family and friends, staff set up a stage at the front of campus. A vehicle drivethru was set up for graduating seniors to exit the car in a timed fashion to allow for social distancing and walk across the stage. Some students and families decorated their vehicles in celebration of the rite of passage.

Students and staff both wore face masks, with the exception of students momentarily removing their face mask while posing for a photo with their diploma.

“You always remember the first graduation as principal, but this one, we will never forget,” said Baker, who began his position as principal in fall 2019. “I was so proud of our families, our kids.

They followed all the safety guidelines, and they kept it about graduation.”

With the ordering of students being organized alphabetically, the ceremony took just under three hours, with 600 students receiving their diploma. DP

Dana Hills graduates participated in a socially distanced drive-thru ceremony on Friday, July 24, where students were dropped off at the front of campus to walk across the stage in their caps and gowns.

Photos: Lillian Boyd

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DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: by Debra Lewis

A Tale of Two Cities: A Farewell

R

ancho Santa Margarita incorporated in 2000. As its first mayor, I served with four very conservative Republican councilmembers. Despite political differences, we were cooperative and respectful of one another’s opinions. Our decisions reflected consensus.

Elected with 65% of the vote in 2016, I envisioned a Dana Point council that understood residents’ desire for a beautiful coastal town, responsible development and friendly neighborhood appeal. Instead, I found a council steeped in partisan politics. Rather than seeking consensus, the majority repeatedly proved inflexible and unmovable, generally voting as a block, literally. The city now resembles Irvine, with more huge apartment projects coming. Residents anticipate another contentious battle to keep unsupervised, mini-hotels out of neighborhoods.

Last Tuesday’s Short-Term Rental council vote says it all. Despite professional survey results showing 60% of DP residents opposed to investor-owned STRs, Muller, Viczorek and Federico voted to expand STRs beyond the home-shares the Coastal Commission had proposed. Federico reneged on his campaign promise, joining Muller and Viczorek, voting against giving residents a vote on this major zoning change affecting their most valuable asset.

Unlike RSM’s unanimous agreement on a city manager, the DP council majority twice imposed their choice by 3-2 votes. Similarly, they refused to rebid the city attorney

contract in effect since 2002, despite $1.7M in legal fees. And again this year, by 3-2, the majority approved the OCSD contract without meaningful review or comment. Our single largest expense that eats up every dollar of hotel bed tax deserves better.

No one is more cooperative and conciliatory than Paul Wyatt. Yet, the majority rewarded him by twice denying him the mayor honor. This year, the three gave Viczorek a second term as mayor rather than choose Wyatt. When Muller wanted an OC Parks Committee position, I withdrew my name in a cooperative gesture. After I reached out, Federico never answered my November 2019 text about working together on Neighborhood Watch.

I can now speak freely GUEST OPINION without being harassed

By Debra Lewis with frivolous Public Record Act requests. Although I have sold my house, I will remain vocal on key issues, including the misogyny I experienced. I do not regret filing my complaint.

I expected the “independent investigation” to find no basis—especially when, months later, the city informed me the Orange County Fire Authority had hired this “investigator” and might do so again in the future. Muller serves on OCFA and was president at the time. I refused to waive the conflict. The new “independent” investigator” used interviews and notes

Letters to the Editor

housing and recognizing the city’s wide range of hotel rooms at all price points.

A city-sponsored, statistically valid survey showed a clear majority preference for homestays (rental of rooms in residents’ primary homes). It also showed that 60% disapproved of STRs owned by investors, with 45% strongly opposed. Ironically, 72% of Dana Point’s current STRs are actually owned by investors, with 64% from out of town.

The majority didn’t care. They voted to include STRs of any kind in the pilot program. Worse, they struck a key section calling for the city to process an LCPA and zoning text amendment to formally adopt new zoning through the CCC. The icing on the cake was when Muller and Viczorek voted no to Lewis’ motion to at least allow residents to vote on an eventual ordinance. Shamefully, Federico joined them.

And, by the way, these men represent Districts 1, 2, and 3, which are filled with HOAs. Capistrano Beach and Lantern District, with few protective HOAs, are sitting ducks. They have no recourse against the three people who allowed 73% of current STRs into their

COUNCIL MAJORITY SAYS YOU CAN’T VOTE Dana Point Times, Vol. 13, Issue 31. 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.

Printed in the USA.

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Dana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

ALAN BELL, Capistrano Beach

Well, at least they’re consistent. Our city council majority (Joe Muller, Richard Viczorek and Jamey Federico) voted in lockstep yet again to put the interests of outside investors over citizens. Last Tuesday, the council voted on a proposed resolution that staff develop a three-year pilot program for short-term rentals (STRs). California Coastal Commission (CCC) staff had worked with the STR subcommittee of Debra Lewis and Paul Wyatt to negotiate a homestay STR program that might be acceptable to both residents and the CCC. Homestays provide affordable rentals while preserving long-term rental

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of the conflicted investigator, rather than starting fresh.

I sincerely thank many supporters. We tried unsuccessfully to pass 1) a private view ordinance preserving overgrown landscape from obscuring or eliminating residents’ views; 2) voter approval of an STR ordinance; 3) a Costa Mesa-type sober living home ordinance effectively regulating group homes; and 4) to oppose districting as Mission Viejo did in 2018.

In 2020, Mission Viejo’s residents can still elect their council at large but did not spend “millions” fighting districting. I am pleased my “No Smoking” ordinance passed and user fees finally increased after 20 years, over Muller’s and Viczorek’s “No” votes. Residents will no longer subsidize developers, whose projects account for the bulk of city’s user fees.

My wish for Dana Point is that you find a three-person majority of honest, hardworking representatives who will represent your values and support your right to vote and hold them accountable. I hope citizens elect candidates supported by residents— not by nameless, faceless PACs, out-of-town investors and real estate interests.

Debra Lewis was elected to Dana Point City Council in 2016. To read more about her resignation, go to page 3. 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. The Dana Point Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

communities—and more are sure to come.

Enforcement is a joke. Illegal STRs continue to proliferate, and in the past three years, only 22% of $122,000 in fines was ever collected.

The bottom line is, we have a council majority that ignores staff recommendations, Coastal Act zoning laws and, despicably, the desires of its residents. And now they say you can’t vote on zoning for your most valuable asset. Is this OK with you, Dana Point?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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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. The Dana Point Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

danapointtimes.com

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

EDITOR’S PICK Photo: File

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5: CASA WELLNESS: BOTANICAL COCKTAILS CLASS 7-8 p.m. There’s no drink more refreshing than a botanical cocktail. Horticulturalist Stephanie Knight leads a workshop, teaching participants how to create flavorful botanical cocktails using easy-to-find herbs and liqueurs—perfect for summer entertaining. All materials are included. Admission is $20. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

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

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to Dana Point Times by going to danapointtimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

Friday | 31 FARMERS MARKET IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Enjoy the new farmers market in San Juan Capistrano. Check out the produce, breads, cheeses, artisan craft vendors, and more. The farmers market is open every Friday afternoon. Farmakis Farms, 29932 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.364.1270. farmakisfarms.com.

Saturday | 01 DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. California farmers bring fresh produce to sell at the Dana Point Farmers Market, and craft vendors provide a large selection of art, jewelry, clothing, handbags, candles, hand-made soaps, and unique one-of-a-kind gifts.

34111 La Plaza Park, Dana Point.

Dana Point Times July 30-August 6, 2020

LOW-COST PET VACCINE CLINIC 10-11:30 a.m. Pets Plus San Clemente offers low-cost vaccinations for all dogs and cats every month. All veterinary services are provided by Vet Care Vaccination Services, Inc. Vaccination packages, microchips, physical exams, prescription flea control, fecal exams, and diagnostic testing available on site. All pets must be on a leash or in a carrier. 415 East Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 1.800.988.8387. vetcarepetclinic.com.

Sunday | 02 SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods from organic growers at the Community Center/San Clemente Public Library parking lot. 100 North Calle Seville, San Clemente.

949 361 8200. san-clemente.org.

LADERA RANCH FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Check out the farmers market and enjoy the food trucks on site.

Hosted by the Ladera Rancho Chamber of Commerce. Ladera Ranch Middle School, 29551 Sienna Pkwy, Ladera Ranch.

949.354.2055. laderaranchochamber.org.

D. YODER FAMILY SUNDAYS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Held on the first Sunday of each month, this free event includes activities and a program thematically based on Casa Romantica’s Casa Captivating programs. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

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danapointtimes.com

DP

Dana Point Point Dana

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Life’s a Beach by Shelley Murphy

Wearing Face Coverings: Sense and Sensibility

T

he controversy over wearing face masks is intensifying as coronavirus cases continue to climb.

The politicized and heated debate divides our community into two opinionated camps: face masks are essential to public health or face masks are a violation of civil liberties.

I acknowledge a myriad of pro-mask and anti-mask claims exist, but let’s look at a few of the loudest arguments against wearing masks:

The guidelines for wearing masks are inconsistent, and many government leaders don’t wear masks

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has flip-flopped on its endorsement of mask wearing. Currently, the CDC guidelines recommend, but do not require, wearing masks.

The mixed messaging from leadership and inconsistent recommendations from the scientific community are deceiving.

Coronavirus is like a bad flu, and wearing a mask won’t make a difference

Media fearmongering is responsible for inflammatory and overblown reactions to the flu-like virus.

Studies report it takes several minutes of close contact with an infected person to contract COVID-19; therefore, the chance of catching coronavirus from a passing interaction in a public space is minimal.

Wearing a mask encroaches on civil liberties

Requiring citizens to adhere to a behavior without undergoing the conventional law-

Photo: Unsplash

making process is governmental overreach.

Life comes with inherent risks, and many citizens accept the dangers to live in a free society.

It’s an individual’s right not to wear a mask; mandatory mask wearing is not about safety but instead social control.

Now, let’s examine a few familiar arguments in favor of wearing face masks:

Masks are a simple yet powerful tool to protect the country’s citizens

The virus primarily spreads from infected individuals via respiratory droplets emitted while coughing, sneezing, talking, and breathing.

Wearing a face mask is one of the best tools to block breathing in those droplets

Wearing a mask slows the spread of COVID-19 People wear masks not only to keep themselves from contracting the virus but to help protect passersby from possible

Health care heroes and fearless frontline workers

By Shelley Murphy keep the nation in motion.

Without their noble acts, day-to-day life would grind to a halt. Wearing a mask in public helps protect them against COVID-19.

Wearing a mask also shows support and gratitude for the health care and essential workers putting their lives on the line to aid their communities.

LIFE’S A BEACH

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. The Dana Point Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

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

M

Dana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

Masks help protect health care and essential workers

Sudoku

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Polka-Dot eet Polka-Dot, a super sweet 2-year-old Staffordshire Terrier Mix. She is a mellow little lady with a cool personality. She could be considered a bit of a couch potato, but her biggest want in life is love from you. She loves attention and wants to be with you whenever possible.

If you are interested in adopting PolkaDot, please visit petprojectfoundation. org to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to animalservices@scdpanimalshelter.org,

asymptomatic contact with COVID-19.

States that mandated wearing face masks in public saw a greater decline in daily COVID-19 growth rates than states that did not.

According to research by the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, potentially 30,000 deaths could be avoided

by October if 95% of Americans wear face masks in public places.

I hear those on both sides of the great divide.

I’m the first to admit, I loathe wearing a mask; but I do it to protect those close to me—both literally and figuratively.

Recently, after wearing a mask for several hours, I broke out in a red, irritating itchy rash. I threw out that mask and have found a few I can tolerate.

I also find it bothersome to keep track of my masks.

I routinely reach the door of the grocery store, realize I forgot my mask, and then pivot back to my car; I’m trying to look at it as getting my steps in for the day.

I don’t consider wearing a mask a political statement or a slippery slope to tyranny.

I also don’t think it abolishes my freedoms. I wear a seat belt, and I don’t enjoy that restriction either—but it makes sense and saves lives.

Seat belts were voluntary until a federal law in 1968 required all vehicles, except buses, to include seat belts.

Why? Because science proves wearing seat belts significantly reduces car crash deaths and serious traffic-related injuries.

Wearing a face mask during a pandemic is common sense, not a culture war.

Put aside personal politics; the reality is, we’re in this together and we’re the way out of this pandemic.

For more than 20 years, Shelley Murphy and her husband have lived in San Clemente, where she raised her two sons. She’s a freelance writer and has been a contributor to the San Clemente Times since 2006. DP

Polka-Dot. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/ Dana Point Animal Shelter

and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. DP

Page 10

See the solution in next week’s issue.

danapointtimes.com

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! Email your listing to info@danapointtimes.com Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

WANTED WANTED: WW2 WAR SOUVENIRS Buying WW2 War souvenirs of all kinds, US, German, Japanese. Helmets, swords, flags, insignia, medals, optics etc. Vietnam items also. Call 858.335.9963

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 July 31-August 6, 2020

Page 11

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PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on July 21, 2020, the City Council of the City of Dana Point adopted Ordinance 20-02 entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DANA POINT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT ZTA19-0003 TO AMEND THE DANA POINT HARBOR REVITALIZATION PLAN AND DISTRICT REGULATIONS FOR PLANNING AREA 3 AND SUBMISSION AS PART OF LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM AMENDMENT LCPA19-0003 FOR APPROVAL AND CERTIFICATION BY THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION. The proposed ordinance will amend the Dana Point Harbor Revitalization Plan and District Regulations for Planning Area 3 and Submission, including providing a variety of visitor serving facilities within the Harbor Revitalization Plan including market rate and lower cost accommodations.

The adopted Ordinance is available for viewing in the City Clerk’s office located at 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, California.

This adopted Ordinance was introduced by the City Council of the City of Dana Point, California, at a regular meeting thereof held on the 16th day of June, 2020, and adopted at a regular meeting thereof held on the 21st day of July, 2020, by the following vote: AYES: Council Member Debra Lewis, Council Member Joseph L. Muller, Council Member Paul N Wyatt, Mayor Pro Tem Jamey M. Federico, Mayor Richard A. Viczorek NOES: None ABSENT: None KATHY M. WARD CITY CLERK Dated this 31st day of July, 2020.

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: RALF-PETER ROHBECK CASE#30-2020-01145097-PR-LA-CJC To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will and or estate, or both, of RALFPETER ROHBECK A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by ANDREA FORGO in the Superior Court of California, County of ORANGE. The PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that ANDREA FORGO be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

The PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to Dana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 08/27/2020 at 2:00 P.M. in Dept: C6, located at 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (Form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner: DENNIS F. FREDRICKS 12121 WILSHIRE BLVD, SUITE 525 LOS ANGELES, CA 90025 (310)820-3600 Published in: Dana Point Times July 31, August 7, 14, 2020

All persons either favoring or opposing the subject project are invited to present their views to the Commission at this hearing.

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 John Ciampa at the City of Dana Point, Community Development Department, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 209, Dana Point, (949) 248-3591.

PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206579905 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: SUNNYSIDE ICHIGO 316 S CLEMENTINE ST ANAHEIM, CA 92805 Full Name of Registrant(s): ANABELLE DIMANG 316 S CLEMENTINE ST ANAHEIM, CA 92805

This business is conducted by an individual.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: n/a /s/ANABELLE DIMANG This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 7/17/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times July 24, 31, August 7, 14, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206575331 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: COALITION OF CALIFORNIA CHAMBERS ORANGE COUNTY 31421 LA MATANZA ST SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA 92675 Full Name of Registrant(s): SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 31421 LA MATANZA ST SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA 92675 This business is conducted by a CA corporation.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A. /s/SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/GEORGE D. PEPPAS III/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 06/02/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times July 17, 24, 31, August 7, 2020

LOCALS ONLY

BUSINESS LISTINGS ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

PUBLIC NOTICE

665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, San Clemente, 949.485.4979, info@bodymindspiritiop.com, www.bodymindspiritiop.com

CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a public hearing will be held by the Planning Commission of the City of Dana Point to consider the following: Coastal Development Permit 20-0013: The project proposes a lot line adjustment for 34297 and 34293 Pacific Coast Highway. A Coastal Development Permit is required for any subdivision action or lot line adjustment in the Coastal Overlay District.

Project Numbers: Project Location:

Dana Point, CA 92629 (Dana Point City Hall)

CDP20-0013 34297 Pacific Coast Highway (APN:682-166-21) and 34293 Pacific Coast Highway (APN:682-166-22) Project Representative: Scott Darnell Applicant: Dana Point Harbor Drive Land, LLC Environmental: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the project is found to be Categorically Exempt per Section 15305 (Class 5 – Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations).

Hearing Date: Monday, August 10, 2020 Hearing Time: 6:00 PM (or as soon thereafter as possible) Hearing Location: 33282 Golden Lantern,

AUTO REPAIR

Dana Point Auto

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

34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net

Page 12

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.

danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

In a normal year, the countdown to high school football season would be entering its final month. Now, football has been pushed back to a January 2021 start, and the waiting continues. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

Waiting for Winter

A month away from its scheduled start, football delayed until January

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

T

hese dog days of summer usually come with signals that the football season is right around the corner.

In a “regularly scheduled” world, summer camp would have closed last week, and fall camp would start next week in preparation for Dana Hills High School’s scheduled season opener on August 21 against Los Amigos.

However, as things go in 2020, “regularly scheduled’ has been thrown out the window due to COVID-19. On July 20, just one day shy of a month away from the Dolphins’ season opener, the CIF State and CIF-Southern Section announced a revised schedule that pushed the opening of football season back to Jan. 8, 2021 and sent all high school sports back into their “wait until further instructions” mode.

“In some ways, it’s a relief,” Dana Hills football coach Phil Skinner said. “Relief that we have a plan. Up to this point, since we got canceled for summer football, we’re still on a wait-and-see thing. Now at least we have a date. Hopefully, that date is to come to fruition.”

Dana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

Like the rest of the Capistrano Unified School District, Dana Hills was ready to go for summer conditioning camps on July 6, but just ahead of that date and eventual state guidance against all youth sports activities, those plans were canceled before they started.

For now, CIF-SS listed the official date for the first full practices of football season opening on Dec. 14. Whether that date sticks or if there are any conditioning camps (limited or otherwise) before then will depend on Orange County’s ability to physically reopen schools. Based on a state mandate, schools cannot physically reopen until their respective county is off the state monitoring list for 14 consecutive days.

“First and foremost, I really hope we get to have some preseason time,” Skinner said. “I really hope we get face-to-face time, workouts in the weight room. It’s a little bit of a take-a-deep-breath moment, that now we don’t start until December, that we get time to get back on campus and get some time in.”

Though December practices sound good in July, coaches also are aware these dates are still subject to change based on local health guidelines, as they saw for summer camps.

If the restrictions on schools continued deeper into the school year, Skinner said he would hope for a month to prepare for a season. If the shutdowns pushed back or canceled games on Dana Hills’ schedule, Skinner would want at least six regular-season games to salvage a fair and legitimate season. Skinner said potential alternate plans of only playing league games would hurt smaller leagues and put everyone on an

uneven playing field.

“If we have to get up and play, we have to just get up and play,” Skinner said. “Physically, it’s not good for them to be pulled off the couch—most kids are working out, so it’s not just jumping off the couch—to just start playing. It’s a physically demanding sport. The more prep time they have, the more opportunity they have to have a successful season.”

As it stands now, Dana Hills’ schedule has already changed, in addition to the actual dates.

The revision of the CIF-SS calendar set off a domino effect that saw scheduled nonleague games for school after school eliminated. The revision removed “Week 0” from this football season, which was the week of the seasonopening Los Amigos game. This meant that Dana Hills now needed to fill its Week 3 bye week to get a full 10-game schedule.

As football coaches raced to fill their new schedule gaps, they took to Twitter as a weeklong social media frenzy ensued, with coaches, administrators, media members and players sharing their schedules and trying to fit together puzzle pieces. Dana Hills found their fit, as a four-way trade was worked out.

“It was a scramble, an absolute scramble,” Skinner said. “I probably talked to 40 coaches in that time, working deals with our ‘zero week’ opponent, Los Amigos. It worked out good for us, but it was a crazy time. It’s all relief. There’s no complaints in this at all.”

The bye weeks for Saddleback High School in Santa Ana, Magnolia High School in Anaheim, Los Amigos High School in Fountain Valley and Dana Hills all lined up in such a way that allowed each school to eas-

Page 13

ily slide in to each other’s schedules.

Dana Hills will now open Week 1 at Laguna Beach, followed by Week 2 at Trabuco Hills and Magnolia now following in Week 3.

After those three openers, the Dolphins begin their journey through the newly formed Pacific Coast Conference.

With Laguna Hills moving to the Pacific Coast League from the Coast View Conference in all sports and Dana Hills joining in football only, the six-team Pacific Coast League became the eight-team Pacific Coast Conference, which will consist of two fourteam leagues. The Dolphins will play crossover games against University, Irvine, Beckman and Woodbridge before league games against Laguna Hills, Portola and Northwood.

Until they can get that schedule going, Dana Hills will go back to the format of these last several socially distanced months: Zoom meetings and home workout plans.

“We were going five days a week on the meetings,” Skinner said. “Offense meetings one day, defense meetings the next day. We cut it back to three days. You can only go over so much film and so much of your plans; you get to be beating the horse a little bit.”

From the schedules, to the format, to even the wetter winter weather, everything about the upcoming high school season for all sports will require adjustments.

“Everything’s going to be different,” Skinner said. “The ‘so what, what’s next’ mentality is going to have to work for us this year.

We can’t let anything get in our way.”

Season preparations will continue at Dana Hills as the waiting game pushes on. DP danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

A Summer with No Surf Contests

For first time since surf contests began, there will be none in California this summer

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

his week in waves should have been highlighted by the debut of surfing in the Olympics. Some of the best surfers from around the world should have been gathered on the sand in Japan to celebrate this historic moment and compete for the sport’s first-ever gold medals. But like most things in 2020, that hasn’t worked out according to plan.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Olympic Games have been postponed until 2021, and surfing’s biggest moment will have to wait. But the Olympics are hardly the only surf contest on ice. Earlier this month, the World Surf League announced that they would be canceling the remainder of the 2020 season.

In the interest of full transparency, I work with the WSL’s digital content team and have been along for the ride on this process. For the first half of the year, there was hope that the virus would abate and eventually some form of the world tour could be salvaged, but the reality of the situation that the planet finds itself in made that an impossibility.

Considering that Americans aren’t currently allowed to travel to Europe, the

Fired-up groms at the annual Positive Vibe Warriors’ Stoke-O-Rama events in San Clemente. Like every other surf contest in California this summer, it’s currently on hold. Photo: Courtesy of Max Beyer/PVW

decision to end the season before it began seemed inevitable.

That means that there will be no U.S. Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach later this summer. And for the first time in more than 40 years, there will be no world champion crowned at year’s end.

However, the WSL does plan to hold a handful of “specialty” events over the next couple of months to give surf fans something to enjoy. The first event will take place about 300 miles up Interstate 5 at the Surf Ranch in Lemoore.

There are also a pair of contests slated for Australia and another couple of competitions scheduled for Europe later this fall. Because of all the worldwide travel restrictions, these specialty contests will feature pro surfers from around their respective zones.

One way or another, pro surfing will endure—and probably come back bigger and better when this is over. The WSL has made smart use of the downtime and implemented a series of sweeping changes to the tour system for 2021 and beyond.

I believe the changes are good, and

a fresh approach was probably long overdue. This pause in the action provided the organization with a moment to take a breath and reevaluate everything.

Unfortunately, the biggest losers in the loss of surf contests this summer are the amateur organizations that provide a platform for tomorrow’s rising stars.

The National Scholastic Surfing Association, the Western Surfing Association and U.S.A. Surfing’s youth development programs have all been hit hard by this stoppage, as have the middle and high school surf teams and all of the other groups that endeavor to give kids a safe, constructive place to chase their dreams. And, sadly, the biggest victims are the groms.

For them, it’s not all about winning heats or capturing national titles—although that is important. In normal times, practically every weekend is booked with a youth surf contest somewhere up or down the coast.

These events are just as much social functions as they are a chance to dip a toe in the competitive waters. Lifelong friend-

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

WAYLON KENWORTHY

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

“D

Waylon Kenworthy. Photo: Courtesy of the Kenworthy family Dana Point Times July 31-August 6, 2020

ships are made and solidified on the sand between heats. Families travel up and down the state together, chasing points and good times, making lasting memories in the process.

“Originally, we called surf contests ‘rallies,’ because you’d show up to the beach with everybody else, hang out and have a good time. They were an opportunity for us all to gather together,” recalled Australia pioneer Nat Young in an interview I did with him for the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center last year.

The idea of contests being a place where the surf tribe can gather together for some friendly competition and, more importantly, some fun in the sun, struck me then and resonates even deeper with me today given everything that’s happened since Young and I spoke.

The whole surf contest thing really started to kick off in earnest during the 1960s, and for the life of me, I can’t think of a summer since then in which there haven’t been any contests in California. It really is unprecedented. It’s a huge bummer.

Eventually, the world will get through the coronavirus pandemic, and life as we knew it will begin to regain some semblance of normalcy. And when it does, it’s sure going to be a lot of fun to head down to the beach for a contest and cheer for my friends and favorite surfers. Hopefully, that happens sooner rather than later.

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

on’t ever try and be like anybody else and don’t be afraid to take risks,” singer-songwriter Waylon Jennings once famously said.

Well, from what we can tell, 9-year-old Waylon Kenworthy, a young shredder and namesake of the country music legend, is doing just that.

Born into a family of surfers and skaters, Waylon not only is blazing his own trail in the water and on the street, he’s also a ripping guitar player.

Locked in with the crew at the Los Rios School of Rock, Waylon last week jammed out at The Coach House, playing his firstever concert. His set list included cuts

from Green Day, the Foo Fighters and Fleetwood Mac (RIP Peter Green).

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 precautions, friends and family weren’t allowed to rock out with him, but the show was livestreamed for the world to watch.

“I’m so proud of the kid. He’s been working really hard and playing a lot of music,” Waylon’s father, Jason, told us after the show. “It’s a bummer we couldn’t all be there in the pit for him, but it was rad to watch.”

When Waylon doesn’t have a guitar in his hand, he can be found on his skateboard or surfboard. But given how comfortable he’s looking on stage—and clearly, he isn’t afraid to take a risk—he’s doing things his way, like Waylon Jennings. DP

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Water Temperature: 64-66 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-14‘ Outlook: Weakening Southwest swell and Northwest swell on Friday, with knee-thigh-waist high waves, (1-2-3’).

Light morning winds Friday, rise to moderate West/northwest onshores in the afternoon. Minor combination of Southwest and Northwest swell continues through the weekend, for knee-thighwaist high zone surf, (1-2-3’). Winds stay on the light side Saturday, then more moderate southerly flow is due Sunday.

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