March 20, 2020

LO C A L

N EWS

March 20-26, 2020

YO U

C A N

U S E

STAYING IN: Top five picks of indoor activities PAGE 10 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 12

Health Crisis Evolving Daily Local Businesses Brace for Impact of Coronavirus E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 7

Electronic signage along Interstate 5 encourages motorists to wash their hands during the public health crisis caused by the coronavirus spread. Photo: Lillian Boyd

Sports Organizations Suspend Activities Amid COVID-19 Precautions SPORTS/PAGE 16

Council Holds Teleconference Meeting, Declares Local Emergency EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

danapointtimes.com

Red Cross Faces Severe Blood Shortage EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

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

DP EYE ON DP

Dana Dana Point Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week City Holds Teleconference Council Meeting THE LATEST: According to the latest update from Orange County Health Care Agency (OC Health), there have been a total of 42 coronavirus cases in the county, as of Wednesday, March 18.

Out of precautionary measures, Dana Point City Council held its Tuesday, March 17 meeting via teleconference. Mayor Richard Viczorek was the lone councilmember behind the dais, while Mayor Pro Tem Jamey Federico and Councilmembers Debra Lewis, Joe Muller and Paul Wyatt called in and voted to approve a resolution to declare a local state of emergency.

“There are two primary benefits under state and federal law to declaring a local emergency,” outgoing City Manager Mark Denny said. “There is state and federal emergency funding that comes with declaring a local state of emergency to reimburse governments in addressing these issues. And under state law, it allows for much quicker timelines in terms of procurement, should it be necessary.”

The regularly scheduled meeting came after the City of Dana Point issued its third update this month in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Today, we are announcing a major shift in our City’s operations as we continue to implement mitigation measures in response to the COVID-19 outbreak,” the city update states. “Starting today, City Hall has closed all public counters and lobbies. The City leadership team and key staff will remain on-site, but some of our staff will be working from home to practice responsible social distancing.”

Denny was initially expected to receive special recognition for his service ahead of his departure to work for City of Fontana in April.

“When things get back to normal, we will have a presentation for you,” Viczorek said. “These are very trying times, and it’s important to have strong leadership such as yourself. You have put together such a great succession plan for Mr. Killebrew to take over. We can assure the city that we’re not going to have any lack of leadership in the city in what we’re doing to address the COVID-19 virus.”

The current assistant city manager, Mike Killebrew, will succeed Denny. KilleDana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

With concerns over the coronavirus outbreak, Capistrano Unified School District has closed down schools and will reopen April 13. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

brew was scheduled to give a presentation on the mid-fiscal year 2019-2020 budget status report; however, the item was continued to the next council meeting.

According to the city, staff is following guidance from federal, state and county authorities in addressing the pandemic.

“The situation is fluid, and information provided in this statement is subject to change,” the news release said.

Beginning Monday, the city implemented transitional changes to online and telephone services through the end of March, or “until further notice.”

Essential city services will continue, but inperson services at City Hall will be suspended. City Hall will transition to online services; residents and businesses are encouraged to call the city’s main line at 949.248.3500 or send an email to info@danapoint.org.

All services requiring in-person visits or public service counter assistance (including building permits) will be suspended or made available via phone, online or through email. Building inspection services, however, will continue. All public works services will remain in place, with the exception of in-person permit submissions or parking permit requests, which can be made online at publicworks@ danapoint.org.

Refuse collection, routine street maintenance and street sweeping will continue per the usual schedule.

While the lobby of Dana Point Police Services is closed, the blue phone outside of the door is operational and can be used to access Police Services. Call 949.770.6011 for non-emergency police assistance and 911 for emergency assistance.

The city council meeting scheduled for April 7 will be canceled or conducted by teleconference.

“Electronic comments are encouraged,” the update states. “Commission meetings will either be suspended or conducted by telecon-

ference at least through April, or until further notice. Written comments may also be submitted by email to kward@danapoint.org.”

The San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter is limiting its in-person services.

The shelter’s office will be closed to the public, but sheltering services will be available. Schedule an appointment by phone at 949.492.1617. Animal Control Officers will continue to accommodate the most emergent health and public safety issues in the community.

For more information, the OC Public Health Care Agency COVID-19 Health Referral Hotline is 1.800.564.8448.

AlertOC is a mass notification system designed to keep Orange County residents and businesses informed of emergencies that may require immediate lifesaving actions.

Sign up for AlertOC by visiting danapoint.org or finding the online version of this article. For more information from the California Department of Public Health, visit cdph.ca.gov/covid19.—Lillian Boyd

Red Cross Faces Severe Blood Shortage The American Red Cross has a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during the coronavirus outbreak.

As workplaces, college campuses and schools temporarily close or urge remote work in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the impacts are being felt throughout the community and the blood supply.

“Healthy individuals are needed to donate now to help patients counting on lifesaving blood,” an American Red Cross press release states. “Volunteer donors are in a unique position to ensure essential medical care continues for those who depend on lifesaving transfusions, such as surgical patients, accident victims,

Page 3

new moms with complicated childbirths, patients going through cancer treatment and more.”

To date, nearly 2,700 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country due to concerns about congregating at workplaces, college campuses and schools amidst the coronavirus outbreak. These cancellations have resulted in some 86,000 fewer blood donations. More than 80% of the blood the Red Cross collects comes from drives held at locations of this type.

In the Southern California region, more than 160 blood drives have been canceled, resulting in 5,500 fewer blood donations.

The Red Cross is adding appointment slots at donation centers and expanding capacity at many community blood drives across the country over the next few weeks.

“In our experience, the American public comes together to support those in need during times of shortage, and that support is needed now more than ever during this unprecedented public health crisis,” said Chris Hrouda, president, Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Unfortunately, when people stop donating blood, it forces doctors to make hard choices about patient care, which is why we need those who are healthy and well to roll up a sleeve and give the gift of life.”

The Red Cross has implemented new measures to help ensure safety at blood drives and donation centers in light of the coronavirus outbreak, such as checking the temperature of staff and donors before entering a drive, spacing beds and increasing disinfecting of surfaces and equipment.

There is no data or evidence that this coronavirus can be transmitted by blood transfusion, and there have been no reported cases of transfusion transmission for any respiratory virus worldwide, including this coronavirus.

To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

For more info, visit redcross.org.—LB

Community Organizations Offer Resources During Coronavirus Crisis THE LATEST: As coronavirus concerns sweep South Orange County and the world, various agencies and businesses have stepped up to offer assistance.

(Cont. on page 4) danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 3) Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) announced in a press release they will “continue but adapt” their daily food, shelter and personal supportive services to South Orange County families and individuals in need.

“We are dedicated to responsibly serving our community,” FAM CEO Elizabeth Andrade said in a press release. The agency is “balancing the tension between our mission to serve our community and the reality of the threat to our organization.”

FAM has experienced an increase in requests for rental and utility assistance needs and started to hear concerns from clients, as employers have reduced hours or closed for the next two weeks.

FAM’s thousands of clients include seniors and the health-compromised, food-insecure and unsheltered populations vulnerable to coronavirus.

The nonprofit maintains its San Clemente-based resource center, emergency family shelter, transitional shelter, permanent supportive housing, resale shop, as well as three satellite support centers in San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and Laguna Niguel.

FAM has instituted the following procedures to minimize personal contact, including adapting regular office hours at the San Clemente office, now 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday through Friday, as long as possible; asking clients to call their main line at 949.492.8477 to pre-order for drive-up food services; and temporarily suspending food supply distribution to the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

Several upcoming FAM events have been postponed or canceled, including Second Saturday food distribution and the annual Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt.

In the coming weeks as protocols and policies change, Andrade said the agency “will continue to communicate with clients, volunteers, staff and partners regarding our updates to programs and precautionary steps.”

Visit the agency’s website at familyassistance.org for more information.

And to help small businesses throughout California that have suffered “substantial economic injury” as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, the Small Business Administration on Monday announced that it will be offering lowinterest federal disaster loans for working capital.

“SBA is strongly committed to providing the most effective and customerfocused response possible to assist California small businesses with federal disaster loans,” SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza said in a press release. “We will be swift in our efforts to help these small businesses recover from the financial impacts of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).”

Carranza explained that the loans could be used to help pay fixed debts, payroll and accounts payable, among Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

The American Red Cross is facing a shortage on blood supply after more than 2,000 blood drive events have been canceled, in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Photo: Courtesy of American Red Cross

other bills the businesses are unable to pay right now. And eligibility, according to the SBA, is based on financial impact.

“Disaster loans can provide vital economic assistance to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing,” Carranza said in the release.

Local residents in San Clemente are looking to aid the elderly, as several members of the San Clemente Life Facebook page have said they’re willing to gather any food and medicine the community’s senior citizens may need during this isolation period.

Valari Armstrong, a San Clemente resident, told Dana Point Times this week that those elderly citizens who are currently quarantined should feel free to reach out to her so she can coordinate with others in the Facebook group to pick up supplies.

“Both my parents passed away, and I would want someone to help them if they were still alive and I weren’t available,” she said, later adding: “I’m healthy, I’m working from home, so I can certainly take time to go grocery shopping, pick, up medicine and leave it on their front porch.”

Armstrong can be reached by email at valari.armstrong@yahoo.com.—Collin Breaux and Shawn Raymundo

CUSD Planning for Distance Learning THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) is planning for distance learning—another term for online education—while schools are closed to students during the coronavirus pandemic.

Schools are expected to reopen April 13.

The CUSD Board of Trustees heard a presentation about distance learning plans during a regular meeting on

Wednesday, March 18. The proposed start date for the distance learning program is Tuesday, March 24.

Teachers will use online platforms including Google Classroom, SchoolLoop and other resources to connect with students and provide educational opportunities, according to an informational slide.

CUSD staff is also working on a plan tentatively named Distance Learning Student Club for students who lack access to a device or Internet connection for distance learning, intended to open by Wednesday, March 25.

As for AP testing, the College Board is considering allowing those to be taken at home. Upcoming SAT testing has been canceled. Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order—pending federal approval—waiving standardized testing for California students in K-12 schools.

CUSD has been providing food to students during the closure, with pick-up meals available on a drive-through basis at various school sites, including RH Dana Elementary School in Dana Point and San Juan Elementary School in San Juan Capistrano.

Custodians increased daily cleaning and disinfecting in every classroom and common area in every school since March 11, and they began deep cleaning at every school site beginning March 16. There were no confirmed cases of coronavirus in CUSD as of March 17.

CUSD plans to communicate with weekly updates—and more frequent updates when necessary—to families through email, social media and the district website. School administrators will receive daily updates.

District officials also have plans in place for different coronavirus scenarios, including preventing the spread and what to do if someone in the district tests positive. Prevention plans include current measures, such as sending people home immediately if they develop a fever or symptoms of a Page 4

respiratory infection.

If one school within CUSD has someone that tests positive, plans include consulting with the Orange County Health Care Agency to determine if school closure is warranted and for how long, and reminding the community of social distancing measures.

CUSD Superintendent Kirsten Vital reflected on the shifts brought about by the pandemic, gave words of encouragement and thanked teachers and staff for their work.

“I want to thank our families and students for your support and flexibility during this very challenging time,” Vital said. “I want us all to be patient and clear that things are changing rapidly and what I share with you tonight may change tomorrow or the next day or next week or next month.”

Trustee Amy Hanacek also expressed appreciation to students, especially seniors.

“They’re a resilient generation,” Hanacek said. “They’ve come through school shootings, active shooter drills, and now they have this. They will continue to make us very, very proud.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The CUSD Board of Trustees will further discuss coronavirusrelated developments as they apply to schools during a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25.—CB

CUSD Providing Free Lunches for Local Children THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District said in a news story through their news outlet, CUSD Insider, they are serving lunches and breakfasts to local children during a three-week school closure.

“On the first day Capistrano Unified provided free lunches, more than 1,000 children were served at four school sites.

That’s more than double the number of children that pick up free lunches during the summer meal program,” the CUSD Insider story said. “Starting Wednesday, March 18, the district will provide a breakfast bar or cereal cup with fruit and milk for the child to enjoy the following morning. Because of the emergency school closure and the reschedule of Spring Break, employees have been volunteering to come to work and help make lunches for the children. The district is closed an additional two weeks from March 23 to April 3, 2020 in response to COVID-19 concerns.”

Acknowledging that many may be feeling anxious or fearful over the disruption and upending of daily activities, the Orange County Health Care Agency is encouraging the community to reach out to its Behavioral Health Information & Referrals line at 855.625.4657.

The line is meant to help connect individuals to any of the agency’s Behavioral Health Services.—LB danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

tion had already postponed its Ocean Institute Fest – Culinary and Music Festival (originally March 27-28) to September to coincide with the Tall Ships Festival.

Dr. Wendy Marshall, the president of education and operations for Ocean Institute, issued a statement on Tuesday, March 17 in light of the closure and event postponement.

“We are navigating unprecedented times as a result of the coronavirus,” Marshall said. “Ocean Institute has been hit hard, as school restrictions have caused a complete wipeout of our programs during our highest revenuegenerating season, which is the fuel that propels us through the rest of the year.”

According to the statement, staff is prioritizing keeping the animals alive and maintaining the minimum infrastructure to stretch out resources as far as possible.

“We remain hopeful that things will swing up in the right direction, but can't let hope get in the way of doing everything I can to make sure we sustain through this,” Marshall said. “We know the storm will pass, but are very concerned about withstanding it.”

Donations for emergency support can be made at secure.ocean-institute. org/annualfund.html.

COMPILED BY STAFF

The Boys & Girls Club to Offer Census Help The Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area, along with the help of the Women for American Values and Ethics (WAVE), is hosting a Questionnaire Assistance Kiosk for everyone who wants to learn about and respond to the 2020 Census.

Community members interested in using the assistance kiosk can visit the front lobby of the Boys & Girls Club at 1304 Calle Valle in San Clemente during the organization’s regular operating hours.

The club stresses that the national Census is safe, while noting that individual census responses are confidential and protected by law.

“Your data can never be shared with any government agency, including ICE, the FBI, or the police,” the group said in a press release. “Also, the Census is inclusive—it does not ask about your citizenship, immigration status, or social security number.”

“Finally, it is important to know that being counted matters,” the club emphasized in the press release. “Our communities rely on significant federal funds that are distributed according to census data.”

According to the club, more than $675 billion is distributed every year to support programs such as health care, housing, education, transportation, and employment. The 2020 Census invites everyone to respond during mid-March through April 30.

Lake Forest Man Arrested on Child Molestation Suspicions A Lake Forest man who worked as a musician for the Archdiocese Orange County since 2006 at various locations, including Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, was arrested on suspicion of two counts of felony child molestation, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) said.

Michael Medeiros is suspected of committing multiple lewd acts on an underage girl beginning in 2018.

“Due to Medeiros having continued access and contact with children over the past 14 years, investigators believe there may be more victims,” OCSD said. “Medeiros was known to the victim, who was under the age of 14 when the molestation occurred.”

Medeiros was reportedly terminated from Archdiocese Orange County in February 2020 after the church was notified about the allegations. He also worked at Dana Point Times March 20-26 2020

Grocery Store Hours Impacted by COVID-19 The Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area recently set up a Questionnaire Assistance Kiosk for those wanting to learn about and respond to the 2020 Census. Photo: Courtesy of Terry Hughes

Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Ladera Ranch, San Francisco Solano Catholic Church in Rancho Santa Margarita and Kid Row Rehearsals in Los Angeles. Additionally, Medeiros attended ministry retreats for Santa Margarita Catholic High School and Junipero Serra High School in San Juan Capistrano; he also gave private lessons.

Anyone with information in the case is asked to call the Special Victims Detail at 714.647.7419 or can make an anonymous report through Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1.855.TIP.OCCS.

MNWD Assures Customers Water is Safe Moulton Niguel Water District issued a statement in light of the global coronavirus scare, to let customers know its water remains safe to drink.

The news release highlighted two messages: Coronavirus has no impact on the district’s drinking water, and there will not be interruptions in water service.

“As our country and state continue to

address the coronavirus (COVID-19), we wanted to reassure our customers and community partners that as part of our ongoing preparation for any emergency, we have taken steps to protect our water service,” the statement said.

Nearly all of Moulton Niguel’s drinking water is supplied by the Metropolitan Water District and is imported into the region. There have been no reductions in water supplies as a result of the coronavirus.

“Over the last decade, our District has invested significant resources to increase our water storage capacity,” the statement said. “In the unlikely event of a major outage, we now have an emergency water supply for our community to last nearly four weeks.”

Ocean Institute Closes Doors for Now, President Issues Message Ocean Institute has shut down until further notice due to the coronavirus outbreak being declared as a pandemic.

The ocean science nonprofit organizaPage 5

Grocery store hours may be impacted and changing to ensure product availability, restocking, and sanitizing amid coronavirus preparation and policies.

“Local market and grocery store times may be changing to ensure that employees have time to restock shelves, sanitize, and clean facilities,” a City of Dana Point news release stated. “We encourage you to be a kind, respectful shopper and shop only for what you need, so everyone in our community can provide for their families.”

As of press time on Thursday, March 19, Gelson’s had implemented a “seniors only” shopping hour from 7-8 a.m. to allow for senior shoppers to obtain groceries while maintaining social distancing.

Albertson’s hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Costco hours are 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Ralph’s at Lantern District and Ocean Ranch are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Smart & Final’s hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com. danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Support for SchoolRelated Bonds Flails Statewide

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO, DANA POINT TIMES

Voters in San Clemente and Capistrano Beach recently decidedly rejected Measure H, the Capistrano Unified School District’s bond measure to upgrade local schools.

In Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel and the rest of Dana Point, Measure I didn’t fare very well, either, as both bond attempts fell roughly 10 percentage points below the 55% threshold needed to pass.

“Well, it certainly wasn’t the result we were hoping for, of course, and that’s very disappointing when you’re talking about facilities for children,” said CUSD Board Trustee Patricia Holloway, who represents San Clemente.

Despite the district not getting the result it was hoping for, Holloway and CUSD Board President Jim Reardon said district officials ran a good campaign and had received positive support from the community.

“So, the temperament of the community, the receptiveness of the community . . . I thought was very positive,” said Reardon.

“The result, on the other hand, followed the trend that has set in statewide.”

As Reardon noted, what happened with Measures H and I this month wasn’t limited to South Orange County. Across the state, a vast majority of school-related bond and tax parcel measures were rejected by voters—a departure from previous elections in which most of such measures had been approved.

For instance, Proposition 13, the state’s school bond measure that would have raised $15 billion for K-12 schools, as well as preschools, community colleges and state universities, is all but certain to fail, making it the first of its kind to be defeated in a quartercentury, Los Angeles Times had reported.

As of Tuesday, March 10, results from the California Secretary of State showed support for Prop 13 at only 46%.

NO NEW TAXES

In counties throughout the state, more than 140 ballot measures asked voters to either pass bonds or tax parcels in order to fund and support local K-12 schools, particularly facility improvement projects, as well as efforts to attract quality educators.

Should the numbers hold, as counties continue counting the remaining ballots, roughly 70% of those measures are currently poised to fail. Bond measures in California require a 55% approval threshold, while parcel tax measures need a two-thirds majority, or 66.67% to pass.

Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

While voters in South Orange County rejected a pair of bond measures to upgrade local schools, districts across the state are seeing similar results with their proposed measures. Photo: Lillian Boyd

According to Ballotpedia—an online source for nationwide election information—the approval rate of bond measures in California has ranged from 70% to 93% between 2008 and 2018. However, in 2009, the approval rating was 50% and in 2017, the approval rating was 33%.

Reardon told the Dana Point Times this week that the results from the latest elections shouldn’t be considered an aberration.

Rather, he argued, the results are indicative of the public’s current attitude on taxes.

“I don’t think the community is ready for another increase in taxes, and I don’t think it’s going to be foreseeably different for some time,” he said, adding: “I don’t think it’ll be any different in November or 2022.”

Reardon speculated that plunges in the stock market related to fears of the global coronavirus outbreak and the state’s new gas tax imposed last year likely contributed to California voters opposing another bond.

He also noted that voters were likely apprehensive to borrow more money to pay for upgrades at schools while the state is sitting on a budget surplus.

“You can run down this list; I think a lot of people look at it and say, ‘I can’t afford the risk right now and the climate can’t be generous,’ and they voted no,” he said.

Holloway echoed Reardon’s sentiments.

“It’s not even a political party thing; voters statewide are feeling pressures and uncertainties, and that translates to not being supportive of additional funding,” she said.

A NON-PARTY ISSUE

The biggest takeaway from the recent elections, Reardon explained, is that taxes aren’t a partisan issue, with both Democrats and Republicans in California voting against these measures.

In counties such as Humbolt, Los Angeles, Marin, Mendocino, Monterey, San Bernardino, San Diego and Santa Clara—where registered Democrats largely outnumber Republicans—most of the bonds that had appeared on the ballots are presumably defeated, based on SC Times’ compilation and review of the measures, results and most recent registration data.

Some Democratic strongholds, however, continued to show resilient support for

school-related ballot measures. Nearly all of such measures appear to have passed in counties such as San Mateo, which was roughly 53% Democrat and nearly 15% Republican, and Sonoma, where about 55% of voters were registered Democrats and roughly 18% were Republicans.

But in Republican-majority counties including El Dorado, Madera, Placer, and Tulare, voters flatly rejected the measures.

Reardon, a Republican who has largely opposed new taxes—even opposing the district’s failed $889 million Measure M bond in 2016—threw his support toward Measures H and I, believing the two regional bonds were structured better.

Both measures proposed a $.03 tax levy for every $100 of assessed property value in order “to repair aging classrooms and facilities at schools,” as well as fix other areas, including deteriorating roofs and plumbing and electrical systems, among other things.

Measure H, the bond initiative put before voters in San Clemente (excluding Talega) and Capistrano Beach, was expected to provide the school district with about $120 million—$90 million of which was earmarked for San Clemente High, built more than 50 years ago.

Had Measure I passed, the district was estimated to receive about $300 million, most of which was intended for Dana Hills High School, Aliso Niguel High School and Niguel Hills Middle School.

If Measures H and I had passed, the total estimated debt amount, including interest, was $209 million and $519 million, respectively.

EYE ON SACRAMENTO

Reardon said that hopefully state lawmakers in Sacramento will “take heed and recognize that something’s changed.”

Asked whether that means California’s legislators need to revisit how education in the state is funded in order to address the aging structures and facilities at schools, Reardon said he wishes they would.

He also noted that about $40 million to $50 million in the district’s $500 million budget is annually slated for maintenance—but not modernization.

“At the end of the day, we don’t have money for modernization, and the state needs to come up with a strategy to fix schools,” Rear-

Page 6

don said, later adding: “I’m not sure what I’d recommend, but they need to have some sort of program for modernizations that districts can apply for to fund it.”

Holloway similarly stated that state officials “will need to somehow address the issue, because if school districts can’t pass school bonds, there’s no other source of funding for infrastructure.”

In an email to SC Times, Sen. Patricia Bates said she believes that “voters are growing increasingly skeptical and tired of having to vote on more bond and tax proposals at the state and local levels during each election.”

“Voters care about our schools, but I think many of them are beginning to wonder where all their existing tax dollars are going, given all the high taxes that they are paying now,” she said in the email. “For future bond/tax proposals, I believe proponents will have to do a better job explaining why existing revenues are not enough and what will be done to ensure accountability and transparency.”

The state legislature, she added, should look to fund most of the repairs needed at schools “through a ‘pay as you go approach’ via the annual state budget process.” Interest payments would be eliminated as result of the approach, which, she said, “will significantly reduce the costs of repairing and building new infrastructure.”

MOVING AHEAD

Locally, Reardon said, the district will have to consider alternative ways of funding repairs.

“We’re going to have to find ways to get this work done . . . to get the modernization and repairs without impacting instruction,” he said.

One of the issues leading up to the election had been declining enrollment at district schools, leaving many in the community to question the need to fix some of the schools if there’s a possibility they won’t be used.

Touching on that argument, Reardon said he think it’s a likely course of action to consider.

“I think it’s likely that the board will have to consider consolidating elementary schools in the foreseeable future,” he said. However, he later said, “Somewhere in there, there’s probably a mechanism to get some funding for modernization in the schools we keep, but it won’t be enough.”

Holloway, on the other hand, acknowledged that while enrollment is currently declining, “over time, it’ll swing up again.”

“So we go through cycles,” she said. “Closing a school could be shortsighted, because we may need that capacity at some point in the future.”

Holloway stated that although CUSD struck out again, the district will just have to continue thinking about “hitting home runs for our kids.”

“So, we’ll need to do that in the future.

We’ll need to come up with something that our voters and community can support and then make things right for our kids,” she said.

“But something that our community can support, and we’ll continue to try to earn that support from our voters.” DP danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Local Businesses Brace for Impact of Coronavirus

CANCELED/POSTPONED EVENTS IN DANA POINT For an up-to-date list, visit danapointtimes.com.

POSTPONED: March 28-29 • Ocean Institute Fest Music-Culinary Festival, new date Sept. 11-12 CANCELED: Farmers Markets at La Plaza Park (through March 2020)

BY LILLIAN BOYD AND SHAWN RAYMUNDO, DANA POINT TIMES

The County of Orange took drastic measures to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus on Tuesday, March 17, ordering all bars to close and for restaurants to only utilize delivery or take-out services.

In a second press release issued on the same day, Molly Nichelson, a county Emergency Operations Center officer, clarified that the public health order was not an order to shelter in place, like what had been issued in San Francisco.

“It is important for all Orange County businesses to remain open while practicing social distancing consistent with the Governor’s guidance,” Nichelson said in the release.

“However, following State guidelines, all bars and other establishments that serve alcohol and do not serve food shall close.”

All restaurants and other establishments that serve food shall close on-site dining. Pick-up, delivery and drive-thru services may remain open.

The order from OC Health Officer Dr. Nichole Quick, which also banned all professional, social and community gatherings of any number of people at places of work, did not prohibit household gatherings.

Health and safety operations and businesses deemed essential are not required to close, according to the order. Such businesses include grocery stores, gas stations, banks, laundromats, homeless shelters, home-based care for seniors, hardware stores and plumbers, to name a few.

“All businesses shall enact Social Distancing, increased sanitation standards, and shall make every effort to use telecommuting for its workforce,” the order states. “All businesses shall suspend any policy or procedure requiring doctor verification for sick or other leave approval.”

Effective Tuesday, all bars and drinking establishments that didn’t serve food were ordered to close, while restaurants have been told to close all on-site dining. The ban will remain in effect until April 1.

“All food served shall be by delivery, or through pick-up or drive-thru,” the order explained. “Social Distancing shall be required for persons picking up food on-site.”

The health officer’s order also strongly recommended that anyone over the age of 65 or has serious chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease and diabetes— or has a compromised immune system—to self-isolate at home.

The county joined the growing list of many cities and counties throughout the state that Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

CANCELED: Science Night at the Community Center (through April 2020)

Justin Hopkin and Lilly Ashley take to-go orders for Jon’s Fish Market in Dana Point. Photo: Taylor Garrett

have taken similar steps in order to curb the coronavirus spread. This past Sunday, Gov. Gavin Newsom rolled out a broad social distancing directive, urging bars to close and restaurants to reduce operations.

On the same day the governor introduced his procedures, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also announced new social distancing guidelines, recommending the cancellation or postponement of all events set to have 50 or more people for the next eight weeks.

This week, the cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano also took radical steps to help prevent the spread of the virus to both residents and staff by closing the doors to public facilities and encouraging citizens to utilize the cities’ online resources.

Officials in San Clemente and San Juan issued seven-day closure notices that went into effect on Monday, March, 16. Dana Point facilities will be closed to the public through the end of the month.

The call for such sweeping restrictions comes as the number of total positive cases in California continues to climb. As of March 17, the California Department of Public Health reported a total of 598 confirmed cases in the state.

The department has reported a total of 13 deaths related to the pandemic. Out of the 598 confirmed positive cases, 392 were found in those between the ages of 18 and 64, while 188 cases were reported in those 65 and older.

In Orange County, the number of total cases reported as of March 18 was at 42, according to the county’s Public Health Care Agency. Twenty-two of those cases were travel-related, while seven were spread from person-to-person contact, 12 were from community spread and one is under investigation.

Across the tri-cities, bars had begun to temporarily shutter while restaurants worked to scale back amid the governor’s request.

Bars including the Swallow’s Inn, Rancho Capistrano Winery, Ole’s Tavern, JD’s Kitchen and Bar, and Beachfire Restaurant had temporarily closed their doors.

Vickie McMurchie is the executive director for the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.

She says it is crucial to support local businesses as much as possible if you are able.

“Almost every industry in Dana Point will be adversely impacted by the current situation,” said McMurchie. “The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce is working diligently to mitigate the economic impact on all of our local businesses and provide them with both the resources and information that they need.”

The Chamber has assembled an online guide for all restaurants within Dana Point that are still providing to-go services—not just Chamber member businesses. It has also provided restaurants and businesses with information about unemployment insurance, available loans and grant opportunities.

McMurchie suggested ordering take-out, purchasing gift cards for the future, going online to leave positive reviews or even reaching out to lend a kind word.

Restaurants including Pizza Port and Brick in San Clemente and Trevor’s at the Tracks in San Juan Capistrano had been promoting take-out and delivery orders.

Trevor Baird, owner of Trevor’s at the Tracks, called the situation crazy on Monday, March 16, and said he and others were taking it day by day.

But by Tuesday afternoon, downtown San Clemente was no longer the hustling and bustling corridor it typically is. Several businesses were closing their doors, while the city had already posted signs designating parking along Avenida Del Mar for picking up food.

Burton Brown, the chairman for the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, said that though local shops and restaurants will certainly be taking a hit over the coming weeks, he remained optimistic that the business community will see a significant bounceback once they can reopen.

“I think this will be short-lived,” he said Monday, adding that after “a few weeks in this, I think we’ll be ready to get the hell out of the house. So, I foresee our restaurants and bars lifting up once people aren’t afraid to go out.”

For now, Burton said, the SC Chamber will continue to follow the guidance set out by

Page 7

CANCELED: Veteran’s Assistance Service by VFW at the Community Center (through April 2020) CANCELED: April 11 • Egg Hunts at Pines and Sea Canyon Parks POSTPONED: April 17-18 • California Wine Festival, new date August 2020 POSTPONED: April 23 • State of the City CANCELED: April 24 • Dana Point Symphony CANCELED: April 25 • Earth Day at the Headlands POSTPONED: April 26 • REDO Vintage and Makers Market

the federal and state governments.

“Our position will be to stay in line with the federal and state response,” he said. “We’ll echo that guidance, and hopefully we’ll get out of this thing better than when we got into it.”

The SC Chamber and the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce recently compiled lists of its member restaurants that are offering delivery, to-go and curbside pick-up services. Links to those lists can be found in the online version of this story “We implore community members to continue to support local business in any way you can,” McMurchie said. “Make a donation to a local nonprofit who may have had to cancel a large fundraising event, leave positive online reviews for your favorite shops in town, and most of all, reach out to our business owners and assure them that as soon as the dust settles, you’ll be there to support them.”

The Dana Point Chamber has created an online survey for businesses to see how they are impacted by COVID-19 in order to see how the Chamber can prioritize ways for advocacy. DP danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS each other, and it’s our responsibility to help keep the community educated and armed with the facts so that each and every one of us can manage through the crisis.

LETTER FROM 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 danapointtimes.com

HOW TO REACH US SENIOR CITY EDITOR Lillian Boyd, 949.388.7700, x113 lboyd@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh, 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@picketfencemedia.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com GENERAL MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

THE PUBLISHER

You Can Count on Us

To aid in that effort, we’ve created some special features on our websites and newsletter platforms to help share information: 1. CORONAVIRUS TAB ON OUR WEBSITES All three of our websites now feature a “Coronavirus” tab in the navigation bar. We will be aggregating all of the information there regarding closures, official directives and announcements, links to key CDC information, etc.

BY NORB GARRETT, OWNER AND PUBLISHER OF PICKET FENCE MEDIA

Friends, as our community, the nation and the world react to the COVID-19 coronavirus, all of us here at the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch want you to know that we’re 100% committed to keeping you informed and aware of how this virus impacts you and our community.

Challenging times such as these underscore the critical need for our community to come together and support

2. DAILY EMAIL “BREAKING NEWS” BLASTS Sign up to our Breaking News email blast in order to receive the latest news directly to your inbox.

Visit danapointtimes.com to sign up.

Our entire team is committed to serving you and our community during this time of crisis. We’re working with our printer and distribution partner to maintain our regular printing schedules, and coordinating with our advertisers to support their efforts to keep their businesses going during the crisis.

I implore everyone to support our local businesses more than ever, as we need to rally together to ensure we emerge from this crisis intact.

We will overcome this virus, and life will eventually return to normal.

Together, we can do this. DP

Norb Garrett Owner and Publisher of Picket Fence Media

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL Senior City Editor, DP Times > Lillian Boyd City Editor, SC Times > Shawn Raymundo City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Collin Breaux Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor > Randy Youngman ADVERTISING/ MULTI-MEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher/ Real Estate Sales

> Lauralyn Loynes (DP) > Debra Wells (SJC) ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed General Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard, Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 13, Issue 12. 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 2019. All rights reserved.

Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE DANA POINT T IMES

FACEBOOK.COM/DANAPOINTTIMES • INSTAGRAM@DANAPOINTTIMES TWITTER.COM/DANAPOINTTIMES • LINKEDIN PICKET FENCE MEDIA

Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

Letters to The Editor MEASURE H SHOULDN’T OVERSHADOW AB 2016 JEFF BERG, San Clemente

Measure H has dominated letters to the editor recently, but perhaps local citizens should consider giving some attention to Assembly Bill 2016, which guides the state’s school system over which ethnic communities should be represented in California’s first ethnic studies curriculum.

It appears as though the intent of California legislators and the will of taxpayers were subverted by members of the School Board-appointed model curriculum advisory committee.

The legislation outlined a non-political, multicultural approach mandating the high school curriculum on ethnic studies, yet committee members produced a draft that promoted their own controversial politics and excluded many other ethnic groups.

Dozens of California’s elected officials, including Gov. Newsom, promised that the original draft curriculum would be substantially revised, yet recent statements by Department of Education officials indicate a plan to move forward with the politically motivated and exclusionary approach of the original draft curriculum.

So what might you expect to see if the

CUSD’s spring break will be moved to March 1620, and schools remain closed for students until April 13. Photo: File

curriculum sails through as is? Partisan political agendas equating capitalism with racism, other one-sided narratives and misplaced activism.

I’d encourage everyone who has an interest in the curriculum their children are being taught to read the op-ed entitled “California’s ethnic studies proposal is incomplete and offensive” in the San Francisco Chronicle and other supporting information to properly weigh in on this important issue.

CUSD SPRING BREAK RACHEL ENGLE, San Clemente

The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees is not really going to take a national emergency and force teachers and students to use their spring break to address it, are they?

And have the teachers report to empty classrooms instead of trusting them to

Page 8

work from home? How is that possible?

Our teachers have worked hard, made plans, and deserve to not have a stressfilled week of isolation replace their allocated time off.

They are credentialed scholars and can work from home as easily as the rest of the work force.

Shame on you, school board. I will be surprised if any one of you is reelected after this fiasco or if anyone will want to pursue a career in education since you treat teachers like such second-class citizens.

You hesitated to close schools here until after Los Angeles, San Diego and most other districts did so, risking the health of our students and teachers.

You demean the ones who give their lives and hearts to our children and receive limited compensation for it already.

Start serving the young people of our community and their hard-working educators, or go elsewhere.

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

THE LIST

BINGE-WATCHING Everyone has those cultural touchstone movies and television shows that they somehow passed by or didn’t get around to watching. In this golden age of streaming content, you can find most of those big titles, as well as new content to get you through the quarantine.

There are plenty of classic TV pillars that can fill your list, including Breaking Bad, Mad Men, The Sopranos, The Office, and Parks and Recreation. For new content, Netflix has pumped out plenty of time-filling reality shows, such as the social media competition The Circle or the cringe-inducing, yet utterly fascinating Love is Blind. For family content, Disney+ added Frozen II to the service three months early, and there are new episodes of Stars Wars: The Clone Wars every Friday, along with six previous seasons to catch up on.

EXERCISING People may be discouraged from going to the gym during the coronavirus pandemic, but they can still stay active at home or elsewhere. Pump some iron if you have free weights at home. If you don’t, you can still crank out push-ups and sit-ups in your living room. Fitness YouTuber Jeff Nippard suggests using furniture to aid in leg curls and squats.

This can also be a time to practice yoga. Not only will the stretches keep you limber, the breathing and meditation techniques will keep you calm and steady during these stressful times.

There are plenty of people out jogging outdoors—but if you’re one of them, remember to keep social distancing

COMPILED BY STAFF

While we typically try to provide you with a roundup of noteworthy, local events for our Getting Out Calendar, precautions against COVID-19 have led to the cancellations and postponements of gatherings in our area. Instead, staff has assembled our top five picks of indoor activities for you and your household amid social distancing.

practices in mind and, of course, use plenty of hand sanitizer and practice good hygiene when you’re out. Hiking and walking don’t require gyms or exercise equipment, either.

The Northwest Open Space in San Juan Capistrano is an ideal spot to get the heart rate up in the great outdoors, and there’s plenty of land to ensure you won’t be crowded together and risk spreading or getting the coronavirus.

CLEANING There’s no better time than now to work on those indoor cleaning and uncluttering projects you may have been putting off at home. So slap on some gloves and bust out those brooms, dusters, mops and vacuums.

Bathrooms and kitchens are always good places to start with any deep-cleaning project. You can start by getting the grime out of those sinks and bathtubs or showers, followed by cleaning out the area underneath the sinks.

Next, grab those dusters to clean fans, window shades, shelves and areas behind major appliances and furniture, including your TV. And don’t forget to wipe down windows and mirrors throughout the home.

Once you’ve dusted, you can sweep, vacuum and mop up the floors of the whole house. And don’t neglect your couches— where many of us spend quality time at home. Vacuum up crumbs and other dirt that may have gotten trapped in between the cushions and then vacuum under the couch.

Old junk and storage boxes cluttering up your garage? Take a stroll down memory lane by going through that stuff and deciding what should be kept and what you can part ways with. From there, set aside what you want to keep and store, and then separate what can be tossed and what you can donate later.

take a complete break from screens and write out your postpandemic resolutions, your fears about what’s happening in the world, what you hope for and everything you appreciate.

COOKING Whether you’re self-quarantined or simply looking to make use of some pantry staples that have sat on the shelf long enough, pasta dishes are an easy, filling and convenient dish to cook amid social distancing efforts.

PANDEMIC PESTO PASTA SALAD Start to finish • 25 minutes Servings • 8 16 oz pasta (your choice of which kind) 1 cup of store-bought pesto 14 oz white beans, rinsed and drained 14 oz canned artichoke hearts 6 oz canned sundried tomatoes 2 cups of arugula (optional) ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese Salt and black pepper to taste Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and rinse the pasta with cold water. Transfer the pasta to a large bowl.

Add the basil pesto to the pasta and stir until the pasta is well-coated. Gently stir in the white beans, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve. DP

REFLECTION For those of us who tend to keep packed schedules, backto-back appointments or live extroverted lifestyles, social distancing can be an opportunity to slow down and reexamine our regimen. Those paused moments of self-reflection can be particularly difficult while caring for loved ones or carrying through day-to-day life. Updates from health officials are critical during this pandemic, but for the sake of your sanity, take a moment to log off social media, tune out the news and clear your mind. There are a plethora of guided meditation and yoga instruction videos on YouTube. Perhaps, Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

Page 10

danapointtimes.com

DP

Dana Point Point Dana

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

A Reunion with an Elegant Old Friend

O

n Saturday night, March 7, I had a reunion with an elegant old friend.

I’ve written about her before, after seeing her at previous reunions. This reunion was so special, I was moved to write about it.

Don’t get the wrong idea. My life partner, Greta, was at my side. And as a special treat to me, so were my sisters Pam and Christine.

The reunion took place at the intimate and wonderful Poway Center for the Performing Arts, which is located in the quaint city of Poway, about an hour’s drive from South Orange County.

And why was it a reunion for me?

Because I’ve known this woman for 43 years, when she was about 21. Her name is Rosanne Cash, a multi-Grammy Award winner and a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

And if her last name has a familiar ring, it’s because Rosanne is the eldest daughter of the late Johnny Cash. That connection is how I met her.

In the mid-1970s, when I was the marketing director for the boxcar and caboose restaurant chain Victoria Station, I hired Johnny and worked with him for two years.

He was our company ON LIFE AND spokesperson and sang LOVE AFTER 50 our radio commercials.

By Tom Blake I also co-produced with him an album of his train songs titled, Destination Victoria Station.

In July 1989, my sister Pam and I were photographed with Johnny, at Humphreys

by the Bay in San Diego, after a concert.

When I published Middle Aged and Dating Again, my first book in 1997, Johnny endorsed the back cover with these words: “In the 20 years I have known Tom Blake, he has become an authority on dating and relationships.”

I’m not sure how Johnny knew that, but I happily accepted his endorsement.

Because my sister Pam was with me on Saturday night, I printed out a copy of that 31-year-old photo of us with Johnny and gave it to Rosanne backstage, after the show on Saturday night.

Minutes later, a new photo was taken of Pam, Chris, Rosanne, Greta and me.

It’s amazing how we change in 31 years.

In the past 10 years, Greta and I have seen Rosanne, along with her husband/ co-writer/producer and arranger John Leventhal, in concert four times, including that Saturday.

When Leventhal saw us backstage that night, he said, “And who are you guys?”

I surmised that Rosanne hadn’t briefed John that the Blake clan would be visiting backstage.

The Poway Center for the Performing Arts is a fun place in which to see a concert. It’s small: 797 seats. The ushers are pleasant, friendly and helpful. Michael Rennie, president and CEO of Poway OnStage, greeted us warmly and was accommodating by leading us backstage after the performance.

Check out their website for upcoming shows: powayonstage.org. And, unheard of these days, the parking is free.

The audience was mesmerized by Rosanne. Her voice is clear and beauti-

Sudoku

and “Sea of Heartbreak,” an old Don Gibson tune.

She ended the concert with her 1981 hit song “Seven Year Ache.”

The applause brought her and John back for an encore; she sang “Wayfaring Stranger” from the Ken Burns’ 2019 Country Music documentary, a tune her father had also made popular.

Add a future Rosanne Cash concert to your bucket list; it will be one of the most enjoyable 90 minutes of your life.

Her website: rosannecash.com.

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating.

See his website at findingloveafter50.com.

To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. 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

DANA POINT TIMES

T

Last week’s solution:

Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

ful. Her stage presence and mannerisms are gentle and polished. Her songs are personal, sung as if she’s telling a story she experienced.

Leventhal is a master guitar player and joins in on limited vocals. He and Rosanne have been married 25 years. They have fun together on stage. They played without an intermission for 90 minutes.

It’s evident that Rosanne loves the United States; she mentioned unity for our country several times. My sisters were deeply moved by her performance.

She sang “Ode to Billie Joe,” as beautifully as Bobbie Gentry did, when Gentry made it a hit in 1967. At the song’s conclusion, Rosanne said, “That song was recorded 53 years ago, and people are still trying to figure out what Billie Joe was throwing off the Tallahatchie Bridge.”

Her rendition of “The Long Black Veil” was spellbinding. She sang one of her dad’s favorites, “Tennessee Flat Top Box”

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Lollypop

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

Country music legend Johnny Cash takes a photo with Tom Blake and sister Pam at Humphreys by the Bay in San Diego, following a concert in July 1989. Photo: Courtesy of Tom Blake

See the solution in next week’s issue.

hree-year-old Lollypop still has the personality of a playful puppy. She has been at the shelter waiting for her forever family for more than a year. A Siberian Husky mix, she is very active and absolutely loves playing in the water. Lollypop would thrive in an energetic household with someone who has lots of time to spend with her and can continue her training.

If you would like to know more about Lollypop, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617 or visit with her at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. DP

Page 12

Lollypop. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/ Dana Point Animal Shelter danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 100 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE Trustee Sale No. 19-006706 DS7300-19006991 APN 939-470-33 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 04/13/18. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 04/14/20 at 12:00 pm, Aztec Foreclosure Corporation as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Kevin Morales, a single man, as Trustor(s), in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Commerce Home Mortgage, as Beneficiary, Recorded on 04/17/18 in Instrument No. 2018000136946 of official records in the Office of the county recorder of ORANGE County, California; WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash, a cashier’s check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state), At the North front entrance to the County Courthouse, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701, all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County, California described as: 33243 OCEAN RDG, UNIT 33, DANA POINT, CA 92629 The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”.

The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, towit: $676,755.95 (Estimated) Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements Dana Point Times March 20–26, 2020

be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call or visit the Internet Web site, using the file number assigned to this case 19-006706. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Servicelinkauction.com 866-539-4173 Or Aztec Foreclosure Corporation (877) 257-0717 www.aztectrustee.com DATE: 3/10/2020 AZTEC FORECLOSURE CORPORATION Amy Connolly Assistant Secretary / Assistant Vice President Aztec Foreclosure Corporation 3636 N. Central Ave., Suite #400 Phoenix, AZ 85012 Phone: (877) 2570717 or (877) 257-0717 Fax: (602) 638-5748 www. aztectrustee.com NPP0369335 To: DANA POINT TIMES 03/20/2020, 03/27/2020, 04/03/2020 PUBLIC NOTICE TSG No.: 8761204 TS No.: CA1900286043 APN: 673-351-18 Property Address: 32902 DANAPINE DANA POINT, CA 92629 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 06/22/2007.

UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 04/15/2020 at 01:30 P.M., First American Title Insurance Company, as duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust recorded 06/27/2007, as Instrument No. 2007000407235, in book , page , , of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder of ORANGE County, State of California. Executed by: EDWARD A. WATKINS AND JOAN E. WATKINS, HUSBAND AND WIFE, AS JOINT TENANTS, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK/CASH EQUIVALENT or other form of payment authorized by 2924h(b), (Payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States) At the North front entrance to the County Courthouse at 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701 All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State described as: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN THE ABOVE MENTIONED DEED OF TRUST APN# 673-351-18 The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 32902 DANAPINE, DANA POINT, CA 92629 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is $ 765,730.07.

The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust has deposited all documents evidencing the obligations secured by the Deed of Trust and has declared all sums secured thereby immediately due and payable, and has caused a written Notice of Default

and Election to Sell to be executed. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself.

Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (916)939-0772 or visit this Internet Web http://search.nationwideposting.com/propertySearchTerms.aspx, using the file number assigned to this case CA1900286043 Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Date: First American Title Insurance Company 4795 Regent Blvd, Mail Code 1011-F Irving, TX 75063 First American Title Insurance Company MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE FOR TRUSTEES SALE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL (916)939-0772NPP0368484 To: DANA POINT TIMES 03/13/2020, 03/20/2020, 03/27/2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206569494 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: AZUREST HOSPITALITY CONSULTING GROUP 30 SAINT JOHN DANA POINT CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): CHARLES FRANCES SMITH III 30 SAINT JOHN DANA POINT CA 92629 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/CHARLES F. SMITH III This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 02/27/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020

Page 14

PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206569502 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: COASTAL BIN CLEANING 29601 VISTA PLAZA DR LAGUNA NIGUEL CA 92677 Full Name of Registrant(s): FELMAR INDUSTRY INC 29601 VISTA PLAZA DR LAGUNA NIGUEL CA 92677 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/FELMAR INDUSTRY INC/FELIX MARTINEZ, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 02/27/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 30-2020-01133707 To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Paul Andrew Briden, filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Paul Andrew Briden PROPOSED NAME A. Paul Andrew Adams The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing Date: 04/22/2020 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: D100 Window: 44. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Dana Point Times Date: February 24, 2020 JUDGE JAMES J. DI CESARE, Judge of the Superior Court Published: Dana Point Times March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 20-2020-01134019 To All Interested Persons: Demian Aaron Dietze has filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Demian Aaron Dietze PROPOSED NAME A. Christopher Aaron Brenn The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 100 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM before the matter is heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing Date: 04/14/2020 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: D100 Window: 44. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Dana Point Times Date: February 25, 2020 JUDGE JAMES J. DI CESARE, Judge of the Superior Court Published: Dana Point Times March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206568991 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: RBS JOINT VENTURE 24681 LA PLAZA, SUITE 250 DANA POINT, CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): RED BRICK CONSULTING INC. 24681 LA PLAZA, SUITE 250 DANA POINT, CA 92629 This business is conducted by a CA Joint Venture.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 06/06/2019. /s/RED BRICK CONSULTING INC./HEIDI MOAK, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 02/25/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 20FL000174 To All Interested Persons: Natalie Marie Zoller and Brent William Zoller on behalf of Mason William Molyneaux-Zoller, a minor, filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Mason William Molyneaux-Zoller PROPOSED NAME A. Mason William Zoller The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing Date: 04/01/2020 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: C59 The address of the court is: Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Dana Point Times Date: February 6, 2020 JUDGE LON F. HURWITZ, Judge of the Superior Court Published: Dana Point Times March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020 Dana Point Times March 20–26, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 30-2020-01133021 To All Interested Persons: Erica Monic Baca filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Erica Monic Baca PROPOSED NAME A. Erica Maldonado Baca The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing Date: 04/19/2020 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: D-100 Window: 44. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive, Santa Ana, CA 92701. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Dana Point Times Date: February 21, 2020 JUDGE JAMES J. DI CESARE, Judge of the Superior Court Published: Dana Point Times March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020

nation of real property: 49 LILAC LANE LAKE FOREST, CA 92630 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bid-ding on this property lien, you should un-derstand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. All checks payable to Prestige Default Services. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Sec-tion 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been post-poned,

and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (714) 730-2727 or visit this Internet Web site https://www.servicelinkasap. com/default.aspx, using the file number assigned to this case 19-2856. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Date: 2/20/2020 PRESTIGE DEFAULT SERVICES 1920 Old Tustin Ave. Santa Ana, California 92705 Sale Line: (714) 7302727 Briana Young, Trustee Sale Officer A-4719489 03/06/2020, 03/13/2020, 03/20/2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206567060 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: TOUSLED TABBY 33402 BREEZY PL DANA POINT CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): ALLIE HOLEN 33402 BREEZY PL DANA POINT CA 92629 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/ALLIE HOLEN This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 02/04/2020.

Published in: Dana Point Times February 28, March 6, 13, 20, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE T.S. No.: 19-2856 Loan No.: *******8852 APN: 610-621-08 NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED. YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 2/6/2017. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: SAISAI LI AN UNMARRIED WOMAN Duly Appointed Trustee: PRESTIGE DEFAULT SERVICES Recorded 2/10/2017 as Instrument No. 2017000060482 in book , page of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Orange County, California, Date of Sale: 4/2/2020 at 12:00 PM Place of Sale: At the North front entrance to the County Courthouse, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $642,689.21 Street Address or other com-mon desig-

LOCALS ONLY

BUSINESS LISTINGS ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

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

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 15

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

Fields are empty and schedules are clear as sports organizations big and small have suspended or canceled their seasons due to precautions of COVID-19. Capistrano Unified School District sports are on hold until at least April 13. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Holding Pattern

Sports organizations suspend activities, attempt to wait out coronavirus shutdowns

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

The sports shutdowns due to coronavirus precautions across the United States, North America and the world aren’t just limited to the professional and college ranks.

On the youth level, there are multiple leagues now on hiatus. Dana Point Youth Baseball is suspended until April 6. San Juan Capistrano Little League, which serves Dana Point, is shut down until May 11. Laguna Niguel Girls Softball, which serves Dana Point, and AYSO soccer are suspended indefinitely. Southern California Volleyball Association is on hold through the end of the month.

On the high school level, the CIF-Southern Section continued to direct its schools to follow recommendations from their local districts. On Tuesday, the CIF State office held its annual spring meeting with Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

the 10 section commissioners from across the state and left open the possibility of a spring sports postseason by deciding to not make a decision on the fate of the state, regional and sectional playoffs. The issue will be revisited in another meeting on April 3.

The CIF State and CIF-SS control the playoffs, but the local schools and their districts control the scheduling and organizing of the regular season. For now, that also is on hold and in jeopardy.

The Capistrano Unified School District is completely shut down until at least April 13, and that shutdown includes the cancellation of all athletic events, competitions and practices. Initially, the CUSD was going to allow practices without spectators until the Board of Trustees enacted the school closures on Friday, March 13.

So now, just as league play was opening up across the busiest portion of the high school sports calendar, fields, courts, tracks and pools are left empty as coaches and players stay home and do what they can to stay sharp.

“We’re not doing anything,” Dana Hills baseball coach and athletic director Tom Faris said. “Anything that’s happening with the team is all individual. They’re on their own. For our pitchers, I told them to just do some arm care stuff. Even if that’s just throwing in the front yard.”

Faris, like most coaches, had only been able to get in touch with players via email due to the timing of the shutdown. Athletic

events and competitions were canceled on Thursday, March 12, but the full shutdown didn’t come until Friday night after most teams’ last in-person contact.

“I did meet with them to say what’s going on for the next few weeks,” Dana Hills track and field coach Craig Dunn said. “They have the schedule for the month. They can’t have full team meetings, but they can meet in small groups to work out. They need that to keep them accountable.”

While the organized sports and teams are shut down, coaches such as Dolphins softball coach Brandon Cosenza are doing their best to stave off cabin fever. Cosenza is getting in beach runs when he can and took his kids out paddling in the harbor.

“We can’t let the kids sit and rot on their phones,” Cosenza said. “It’s eerie out there.”

Cosenza’s softball group is one of many that would be hit hard by an early cancellation of the spring season due to a large group of seniors on the roster. The Dana Hills softball team features seven seniors, including a handful of four-year starters.

“That’s the most heartbreaking thing,” Cosenza said. “They were so, so, so excited.

I feel for them.”

When the NCAA canceled its slate of spring sports, the college organization granted seniors an extra year of eligibility. However, there are no redshirt years in high school sports, and if the decision does eventually come down, many Dana Hills athletes may have laced up for the final

Page 16

time.

Dunn echoed the sentiment for a Dana Hills track team that included stellar seniors on a sprint relay team with lofty postseason goals.

“My biggest thing is I feel so bad for my seniors and all the kids that put in so much work,” Dunn said. “We’re trying to do the best for the kids.”

Going forward, the next date these high school teams have circled is April 3. That’s the date of the next CIF State meeting to revisit the decision on spring sports playoffs, and that’s just ahead of the CUSD schools possibly restarting on April 6.

If the spring sports do return, there’s the possibility of accelerated league schedules or tournaments to determine league placing for team sports. For individual event sports including track, golf and swimming, large league meets could be held. It would be a crunch, but there would be a scheduling window.

“I think if we were given four weeks for our sports,” Faris said, “we’d be able to complete some type of tournaments to figure out who should go to CIF or who shouldn’t. It might happen past the graduation deadline. The dust will settle, and hopefully we’ll be able to salvage something out of this.”

There’s nothing concrete, as everyone awaits their next marching orders in the ever-evolving situation regarding COVID-19. DP danapointtimes.com

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

GARAGE SALES CANCELLED: FORSTER RANCH COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE - SAT. 3/21 8am-12pm. X st’s Camino Vera Cruz andCamino De Los Mares.

OCEAN HILLS COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE- SAT. 3/28 8am to 2pm. X-streets are Calle Agua and Camino de Los Mares, San Clemente.

GARAGE BLOCK SALE Sat. 3/28, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM. 3744 Calle Casino, San Clemente GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

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 at 949.388.7700 ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

Page 17

danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Kobayashi’s Big Moment in the Sunshine State San Clemente’s Kei Kobayashi takes his first QS win at the Ron Jon Quiksilver Pro

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t’s been a long time coming for San Clemente’s Kei Kobayashi, who just won his first WSL Qualifying Series contest. Actually, it hasn’t been that long; he’s only 21 years old, but the powerful regular-footer has been a local fixture since he was a grom and it is epic to see him get a much-deserved victory.

In what looks to be the last WSL event for some time, Kobayashi and a whole crew of local surfers shined over the weekend at the Ron Jon Quiksilver Pro in Cocoa Beach, Fla. In a precautionary measure, the league has postponed all events until a later date due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m super stoked on that win,” said Kobayashi during the awards presentation.

“I want to thank WSL and the event organizers here for letting us finish this event with everything going on. I hope everyone stays safe out there.”

Making the Final extra special, like any day at T-Street, Kobayashi and fellow San Clemente ripper Taj Lindblad went back and forth in the final, battling for hometown bragging rights.

“To have a final with Taj was awesome,

Left: San Clemente rising star Kei Kobayashi taking the first win of his WSL Qualifying Series career. Right: In a battle for local supremacy, San Clemente surfer Taj Lindblad finished second in the contest. Photos: Courtesy of WSL

and being able to make it an all-San Clemente finish after we talked about it earlier this morning, I can’t believe it happened. I’m at a loss for words,” Kobayashi said.

“To surf against Kei was awesome,” Lindblad said. “It feels good to be building a house of results on the QS, and hopefully I can bring that into the juniors this year.”

Meanwhile, Lindblad’s sister, Sawyer, also took the second-place spot on the podium.

After a searing start to her 2020 campaign in which she’s captured two wins, Lindblad was edged out by Oceanside phenom Caitlin Simmer. Also making the final was Dana Point’s Bella Kenworthy.

As noted at the beginning of this piece, the WSL has postponed all of its events for the immediate future due to COVID-19.

Some of our local surf stars had already traveled down to Australia for the start of the 2020 season. With those events now being canceled, they will either be heading home or hunkering down in Australia for the moment.

As I write this, there’s a solid swell hitting the Gold Coast, and the waves have been pumping.

Griffin Colapinto has been scoring at Snapper

Rocks, while Pat Gudauskas is posted up in Byron Bay. If he stays too long, he may come home with a haircut like George Greenough.

But in all seriousness, as the forced quarantine expands in Europe, surfers in Italy, France, Spain and elsewhere are being prohibited from surfing. It’s a heavy time, and because of the global nature of the sport, lifestyle and culture of surfing, the impact weighs heavily on all our friends and family around the world.

Life in the time of the coronavirus isn’t going to be easy. But, thankfully, the coronavirus doesn’t surf. Avoiding large crowds, practicing social distancing—those are things that are woven into our quirky DNA. We’ve been trying to self-quarantine ourselves ever since the second guy showed up at Lowers.

Our lineups and local breaks are our refuge. When life on terra firma gets a little too hectic, we go surfing. And while it might not be all bro shakes and high-fives in the parking lot these days, we’re going to keep surfing, and we’re going to keep chasing that feeling and waiting for that next wave.

In the book Blue Mind by Dr. Wallace Nichols, he makes the argument that simply

being “near, in, on or under water can make you happier and better at what you do.”

And that’s the thing about surfing. It isn’t just a sport. Ask any competitor on tour, and they’ll all tell you that winning contests and world titles is all well and good, but nothing truly beats that perfect day. And perhaps nobody has summarized that sentiment as eloquently as John Severson in his first pages of Surfer Magazine back in 1960.

“In this crowded world, the surfer can still seek and find the perfect day, the perfect wave, and be alone with the surf and his thoughts,” wrote Severson.

It’s pretty incredible how apropos those words are at this very minute. Clearly, there’s a lot to think about right now; just don’t forget to go surfing. DP

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 60-63 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 6-10’

GROM OF THE WEEK

SOPHIA HOWARD

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

W

ith school shut down, events canceled and the future uncertain, these aren’t easy times to be a grom. But through a positive spirit, optimistic outlook, a little creativity and some understanding, we’re going to get through all of this.

That’s why, for this week, my Grom of the Week is my beautiful daughter Sophia.

A sixth-grader at Bernice Ayer Middle School, Sophia has been home with me all week, and until things clear up, we’re going to be hanging at the pad together for a while longer.

After graduating from Las Palmas last year, her Spanish skills are epic. When we Dana Point Times March 20-26, 2020

take family trips down to Mexico, she does all the talking for me, and it’s always a hoot to watch the reaction when she starts conversing with a local with a perfect accent.

Sophia didn’t have much of a choice when it came to diving into the surf life.

When she was 3 months old, I dragged her to the U.S. Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach—where, as a desperate dad, I plugged her bottle warmer in the event’s P.A. system. She’s been my right-hand girl on trips to Europe, Central America and the Maldives, but more than all of the exotic travel, she loves a good day at Doheny.

Hopefully, all of the groms and parents are getting along as well as we are these days. All that’s happening in the world right now is plenty disruptive, but with a kid such as Sophia, hanging around home’s been pretty dang rewarding.

Thanks, Soph! DP

Outlook: For Friday, old South swell eases into the waist-stomach-chest high zone, (2-3-4’). Light winds due most of Friday morning, followed by moderate Northwest winds in the afternoon. Saturday’s surf drops to kneewaist high, (2-3’), then new South swell moves in with waist-chest high waves on Sunday, (3-4’). Northwest winds on Saturday, light in the morning then moderate for the afternoon. Light West winds Sunday morning, rise to moderate in the afternoon. For the latest details be sure to visit Surfline.com.

Sophia Howard. Photo: Jake Howard Page 18

danapointtimes.com