April 10, 2020

LO C A L

N EWS

April 10-16, 2020

YO U

C A N

U S E

INSIDE: Celebrating Earth Day and More in The Green Issue

SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 13, ISSUE 15

Picking Up the Pieces

‘Pilgrim,’ a Dana Point Icon, Demolished and Removed from Slip E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 3

After attempts to lift the sunken Pilgrim to drain her were to no avail, U.S. Coast Guard determined she would need to be demolished and removed from her slip, piece by piece.

Ocean Institute staff says they will be preserving as much as they can. Photo: Lillian Boyd

CIF Cancels Spring Postseason, Likely Ending Entire Spring Season SPORTS/PAGE 20

Local Eats: List of Restaurant Pickup Options GETTING OUT/PAGE 17

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Students Volunteer to Bring Groceries to Those in Need EYE ON DP/PAGE 6

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

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week City Anticipates ‘Devastating’ Effects of COVID-19; Directives Set to Explore Testing THE LATEST: Dana Point City Council unanimously approved a few changes to the city’s declaration of a local emergency in response to the coronavirus pandemic during a meeting on Tuesday, April 7. City staff has also been given direction to pursue finger-prick testing for COVID-19 and possible partnerships for data collection.

As a direct result, recreational vehicles (RVs) are now authorized to be parked in the immediate vicinity of a resident’s home for longer than the allowed 72 hours, subject to a permit issued by the Director of Public Works, if deemed appropriate.

Hotels and short-term rentals may continue to operate if providing shelter to traveling medical workers, first responders, people displaced by COVID-19, or other similar instances, but they may not operate to accommodate vacation or leisure travel.

Councilmember Debra Lewis alluded to Newport Beach’s decision to temporarily ban short-term rentals with the exception of medical workers and emergency responders before seeking clarification on how Dana Point would enforce the new restrictions.

“I encourage residents to call our hotline,” City Manager Mike Killebrew said. The number to call is 435-STR-HELP (or 435.787.4357). People can also submit grievances with a complaint form online at hotscompliance.com/tips.

City Attorney Patrick Munoz added that violating these directives could result in misdemeanor penalties, as they are a violation of both the state order and municipal code.

“We could take any action we could take to any code violation, with the added penalty provided by government code, in respect to emergency orders,” Munoz said.

Additionally, in an effort to comply with state- and county-issued “stay at home” orders, the city closed an additional trail and added additional parking restrictions and road closures to help alleviate crowds and curb the spread of COVID-19.

Councilmember Joe Muller prompted Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

A crane removed the Pilgrim’s two masts on Tuesday, April 7, initiating the process to demolish the vessel after attempts to raise her and drain water were to no avail. Photo: Lillian Boyd

city staff to look into the potential for finger-prick testing for COVID-19 and possible partnerships with research groups (such as UC Irvine) for the purpose of data collection.

“I took the test, as did my family, to see what it was about,” Muller said. “We got our negative test results within minutes.”

The qualitative rapid serology testing kit that Muller had used has been developed

by EqualTox Laboratory in Tustin. Serology tests reportedly detect the body’s immune response to infection rather than the virus-causing infection. The FDA has cautioned that these tests are not to be used to diagnose COVID-19, but officials throughout the county hope to use them to better understand the virus spread.

Muller’s directive requested staff to investigate protocol for residents, first responders and staff to figure out how to get testing and subsequent results into a larger database.

City costs associated with any response or supply purchases are being covered by existing department budgets, but will be tracked separately. According to the agenda report, city staff will pursue federal and state reimbursement for all city costs incurred once funding assistance is approved.

Following the council’s approval on changes for the declaration of emergency, Killebrew provided chilling forecasts on the city’s budget. Before the coronavirus pandemic, revenues had been trending to exceed budget.

“The effects of COVID-19 on the second calendar quarter of this year are going to be absolutely devastating,” Killebrew said. “The hotels have had almost zero

occupancy for several months. . . . I know restaurants are trying to stay alive.”

Killebrew added that city staff has had regular contact with hotels and the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.

“It is not an overstatement to say all levels of government and the private sector are still working to understand the full ramifications of COVID-19 and actions taken to mitigate its spread,” Killebrew said. “This agenda report is simply a beginning of what will be many months of discussions regarding the extent of the financial hit we are all experiencing, also the extent of which it will last.”

The transient occupancy tax (TOT), the city’s largest source of revenue, is projected to be short about $3 million of what was initially budgeted. Originally budgeted to bring in $12.75 million, Killebrew now forecasts $9.5 million from TOT, which typically accounts for about 30% of the city budget. A nearly $40 million budget was adopted in June 2019 for the FY20 General Fund revenue budget.

WHAT’S NEXT: No general fund budget adjustments were recommended as of the council meeting. However, budget adjustments for other city funds will be recommended for city approval in the coming meetings.—Lillian Boyd

‘Pilgrim’ Demolished and Removed THE LATEST: The Pilgrim, an iconic tall ship and Dana Point symbol, was demolished and removed from its slip next to Ocean Institute.

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The Pilgrim, a full-sized 1945 replica of the merchant ship that Richard Henry Dana detailed in his classic novel Two Years Before the Mast, keeled overnight between Saturday, March 28 and Sunday, March 29 and sank in her slip at Dana Point Harbor.

Since then, all agencies involved have made the decision to pivot from the removal of the Pilgrim to demolishing the vessel in its slip.

The removal is being performed piece-by-piece over the next several days with extreme caution, enabling Ocean Institute team members to salvage select items for possible future display, according to Margaret Thomas, a spokesperson for Ocean Institute.

The barge crew began the demolition and removal process on Tuesday, April 7.

“The Ocean Institute is grateful for everyone’s involvement in this process, from the divers and U.S. Coast Guard to the Crane Barge DB Salta Verde and county agencies,” Thomas said. “Once fully demolished, the Ocean Institute will assemble a task force to determine how to move forward with thoughts on replicating the experience the Pilgrim provided for nearly 40 years.”

The Pilgrim was a beloved classroom and field trip destination for hundreds of thousands of students for nearly 40 years and played a prominent role each year during the Ocean Institute’s Tall Ships Festival.

Valued at $6 million, the vessel sank in its slip on Sunday morning, March 29, in the Dana Point Harbor in approximately 10 feet of water. Efforts were made earlier this week to lift the vessel, to no avail.

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

‘Flushable Wipes’ Bust Flush for Wastewater Treatment THE LATEST: Are flushable wipes actually flushable?

Amid the scarcity of toilet paper at grocery stores, South Coast Water District staff says they are dealing with the brunt of an increased use of “flushable” wipes. “’Flushable wet wipes have gained in popularity with the lack of toilet paper and due to sophisticated marketing tactics,” SCWD public information officer Sonja Morgan said. “These wipes can clog up sewer pipes and cause sewer system pump stations to block and shut down, causing large sewer spills into our community.”

(Cont. on page 4) danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP great sense of accomplishment, having worked diligently with partner transportation agencies, as well as county and city representatives, the business community and environmental groups, to improve mobility throughout the region,” said Kraman.

(Cont. from page 3) Sanitary operators, who are reportedly working longer hours due to the coronavirus crisis, now have the additional burden of finding these blockages before they can cause damage. While toilet paper dissolves readily, wipes and paper towels take much longer to dissolve, if ever.

Flushable wipes clogging pipes is not a new dilemma for wastewater agencies.

“It is a problem wastewater agencies have been taking on for well over 15 years,” Morgan said. “Misleading labeling on wipes has caused widespread confusion among consumers.”

Major brands such as Cottonelle counter that its wipes are designed to be flushed, while most wet wipes are designed to be thrown away.

Cottonelle Flushable Wipes are 100% flushable and start to break down immediately after flushing, according to a Kimberly-Clark Family Care statement.

Kimberly-Clark owns brands including Cottonelle, Kleenex, Scott and Huggies.

On March 30, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a release urging Americans to only flush toilet paper down the toilet—and to throw wipes or other non-flushable items in the trash.

“Flushing only toilet paper helps ensure that the toilets, plumbing, sewer systems and septic systems will continue working properly to safely manage our nation’s wastewater,” the EPA Press Office said. “While EPA encourages disinfecting your environment to prevent the spread of COVID-19, never flush disinfecting wipes or other non-flushable items. These easy steps will keep surfaces disinfected and wastewater management systems working for all Americans.”

According to the EPA, flushing anything other than toilet paper, including disinfecting wipes, can damage internal plumbing, local sewer systems and septic systems. Fixing these backups is costly and takes time and resources away from ensuring that wastewater management systems are otherwise working properly.

“Unfortunately, over the years, people have turned the toilet into a trash can,” Morgan said. “Flushing these types of items down the toilet causes home pipes to clog and can have a significant impact on our sewers and not to mention our ocean.”—LB

TCA’s Michael Kraman Announces Retirement THE LATEST: Michael Kraman, the chief executive officer of the Transportation Corridor Agencies TCA, has reportedly informed the San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor Agency (SJHTCA) and Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agencies of his decision to retire.

“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to lead TCA during times of success Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

WHAT’S NEXT: According to the release, Kraman will remain on theTCA board until an interim CEO can be named.—LB

Mental Health Needs Rise Amid COVID-19 Crisis

South Coast Water District is asking customers to refrain from flushing down anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Even “flushable” wipes have reportedly led to an increase in clogs.

Photo: Courtesy of SCWD

and challenges,” Kraman said in a press release from the TCA on Friday, April 3. “The recent action by the F/ETCA Board to extend Los Patrones Parkway untolled accomplishes TCA’s efforts to complete the southern extension of the 241 Toll Road, closing a long chapter in our Agencies’ history.”

The TCA Board of Directors voted unanimously on March 12 to further pursue the extension of Los Patrones Parkway—an arterial, untolled route— as part of the efforts to relieve South County traffic, formally removing the possibility of extending the 241 Toll Road through San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) and the TCA have been working on the Relief Effort, considering many proposals, including some to extend the 241 through parts of San Clemente and San Juan in order to connect to Interstate 5.

“Having spent more than 35 years delivering major transportation infrastructure projects, this achievement, coupled with the recent 241/91 Express Connector agreement, presented a timely opportunity to transition to the next phase of my life,” Kraman said in the release.

“It’s been my honor and privilege to serve our Directors, employees, loyal customers and Orange County.”

The TCA press release announcing

his decision highlighted Kraman’s priorities, which included improving the TCA’s long-term financial position.

The TCA’s finances have been a contentious issue, particularly with San Clemente.

According to a 2018 memorandum issued by the city of San Clemente, in conjunction with Fieldman, Rolapp & Associates, the TCA faced a nearly $7 billion debt. Assemblymember Bill Brough had stated in campaign literature this year that the TCA faces $11 billion in debt.

In a memo to the city of San Clemente, the TCA stated that the Fieldman, Rolapp & Associates memo contained inaccuracies and a misunderstanding of the TCA’s finances. In an interview with Dana Point Times, TCA staff clarified that the agency reportedly has a principal debt of $4.7 billion. And future interest and principal totals about $11 billion.

According to the release, when Kraman took over as CEO in 2014, much of the Agencies’ debt was not rated investment grade.

Moving the agencies’ credit to investment grade ratings by all three major rating agencies, including an A- rating from S&P Global Ratings, has been achieved through the strategic leadership of CFO Amy Potter and the commitment of the SJHTCA and F/ETCA Boards of Directors, the release stated.

“As I look back on the last eight years, beginning as chief engineer . . . I feel a Page 4

THE LATEST: Mental health issues are increasing during the coronavirus pandemic, several local mental health service providers recently confirmed.

Anxiety and stress were cited in particular by South Orange County professionals when reached for comment.

William Martin, a psychologist based in San Clemente, said people are reacting to the unknown factor now in the world and rapid changes to daily life, with schools, gyms and businesses closed.

“A lot of people are struggling with boredom,” Martin said.

Martin also noted the end or change to routines is also causing issues. Mental health tips recommended by Martin include exercising in the home, taking up old hobbies such as reading and stopping to take deep breaths.

Martin also said while people need to be aware of guidelines for safety, they shouldn’t panic.

“Rather than overreacting, we should recognize we need to be cautious,” Martin said.

Mary Naimie, a psychotherapist and hypnotherapist also based in San Clemente, said there has been a decrease in people reaching out for help despite an increase in need.

“Everybody is in a trauma mode right now,” Naimie said.

More people could begin reaching out in the next few weeks as they adjust to the new world, said Naimie, who still sees regular clients.

Naimie and other mental health experts compared responses to the pandemic as similar to the stages of grief.

“You can do Zoom meetings,” Naimie said. “You can sit on your porch a safe distance away from neighbors and say hello to people.”

Gayle Hillyard, a therapist in Dana Point, said everyone is handling their crisis mode differently, with some initially panicking before accepting the situation and others not having much of an initial reaction. Depression is also increasing, Hillyard said.

During the pandemic, local experts recommend people turn to telehealth, which enables patients and clinicians to communicate electronically about healthrelated services and issues.

—Collin Breaux danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

Historical Society to Award Scholarships to High School Students The Dana Point Historical Society has announced it will again be awarding two $1,000 scholarships to deserving high school seniors. The Doris Walker Scholarship is for students living in Dana Point and attending Dana Hills High School. The Lucy Chavarrias-Saunderson Scholarship is for students living in Capistrano Beach and attending San Juan Hills High School or San Clemente High School. The scholarship is based on merit and need, with a focus on community service.

In years past, the Dana Point Historical Society has put on a fiesta to celebrate the scholarship recipients. However, due social distancing directives amid the coronavirus pandemic, details for a celebration are unclear at this time.

Applications are available online through each school's scholarship program. Interested seniors should contact their academic advisor with questions. The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, April 17.

Dana Point Friends of the Library Donates 200 Books to Meals on Wheels Dana Point Library’s Friends of the Library Bookstore donated 200 books to the city’s Meals on Wheels service, allowing for senior residents to be given a free book with their meal.

Lisa Buchner, the president of the Friends of the Library association board, helped pick the books that were donated.

“A lot of our regulars are seniors, so we are happy to give back and serve the community,” Buchner said. “Everyone could always use a good book to read.”

Laura Blasingham, the head librarian at Dana Point Library, says the effort could not have happened without the Friends of the Library’s generosity.

“It was honestly just so nice to be amongst books again and be able to put books in the hands of people,” she said. “I want to thank the Friends of the Library program. They really made this possible. They do a ton of stuff for us, their donations benefit us, and they are an amazing group of volunteers.”

The donated books consisted of mystery, historical fiction, thrillers, romance— basically anything most people would be interested in reading, said Blasingham.

Blasingham added that although the library is closed to the public at this time, there is an abundance of resources online.

“You can go online and sign up for a library card and download a whole range of online books,” Blasingham said. “New Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

Friends of the Library in Dana Point donated 200 books to the Meals on Wheels program. Photo: Courtesy of Clara Beard

books are being added each day.”

Visit ocpl.org/elib/ecard for access to a digital card, ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, resources and more.

For more information on future opportunities to volunteer with Friends of the Library in Dana Point, visit friendsdanapoint.org once stay-at-home directives are lifted.

Outlets Hosts Weeklong Blood Drive The Outlets at San Clemente is hosting a series of blood drives with the Southern California Blood Bank this week.

The drive kicked off on Tuesday, April 7, and will continue from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Saturday, April 11, at space #505 across from the Calvin Klein store at 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa.

The Southern California Blood Bank is the primary blood supplier to local hospitals throughout Orange, San Diego and Los Angeles counties, including the Children’s Hospital of Orange County, or CHOC. Amid the coronavirus pandemic that has prompted stay-at-home directives and the cancellation of previously scheduled blood drives, the Southern California Blood Bank has noted there’s been a shortage of blood supply.

To help address some of the safety concerns, the organization is not allowing walk-ins and is encouraging those willing to donate blood to first make an appointment at scbloodbank.org.

Anyone who would like to host an onsite blood drive in their community can contact Sue Forster, territory manager with the Southern California Blood Bank, at 951.514.9135 or at sforster@bloodbank.org.

Those who have scheduled appoint-

ments should enter the property through the southernmost entrance next to the parking structure and closest to Avenida Pico, according to the Outlets.

SoCalGas Launches Bill Assistance for Customers amid Pandemic For Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) customers whose income has changed due to COVID-19, the utility company is launching a campaign to let them know they can save on their gas bill.

“SoCalGas Cares” launches this month aiming to inform customers of their eligibility to qualify for SoCalGas’s assistance program. If you have recently lost your job, even if you are receiving unemployment benefits, you may qualify for 20% off your natural gas bill with their CARE program.

“SoCalGas is committed to assisting the communities we serve during this challenging period,” said Jeff Walker, Vice President of Customer Solutions at SoCalGas. “We recognize that many families are facing unexpected hardships such as job and income loss right now, and we want to remind them that SoCalGas’ assistance programs like CARE can help.”

The CARE program aids people in paying their utility bills by providing a 20% discount on monthly natural gas bills.

Customers who have become recently unemployed or who are currently facing financial hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic or for other reasons are encouraged to visit socalgas.com/care, complete the quick online application and find out instantly if they qualify. The CARE online

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application is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.

If you or someone you know is having difficulty paying their gas bill, the Gas Assistance Fund (GAF) may be able to provide you with a one-time grant for the amount of the gas bill, not to exceed $100. The Gas Assistance Fund is a joint effort of SoCalGas and United Way of Greater Los Angeles.

The Medical Baseline Allowance program provides additional natural gas at the lowest baseline rate for individuals with a serious health condition. Customers may qualify if a full-time household member has a life-threatening illness or compromised immune system, is seriously disabled, or requires more heat in the winter due to a serious health condition or to prevent deterioration of the individual’s condition. Eligibility is based on medical condition only, not household income.

SoCalGas will continue to make safety and emergency service appointments, including reports of suspected natural gas leaks, carbon monoxide checks, gas meter turn-ons, natural gas outage and pilot re-lights. Crews will continue to perform work needed to maintain infrastructure.

Service disconnections have been suspended until further notice. This means no customer will have their natural gas turned off due to non-payment. SoCalGas has also temporarily waived late fees for small business customers. SoCalGas does not charge late fees for residential customers.

Have something interesting for the community?

Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com

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EYE ON DP

Local Volunteer Chapter Aids Those in Need During Pandemic

BY LILLIAN BOYD, DANA POINT TIMES

OC Against Corona is a local chapter of the global Students Against Corona movement, created to bridge volunteers with those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photos: Lillian Boyd Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

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After a movement in the United Kingdom called Students Against Corona launched, a Dana Point resident has decided to start a similar charity hub in Orange County.

Mikaiah Lowe, a student of St. Edward University in Scotland, returned to his home in Dana Point early due to worldwide closures.

He’s now using his extra time to organize volunteers to assist seniors in the South Orange County community, through a movement called OC Against Corona.

“We as students want to offer a helping hand wherever we can, during this coronavirus crisis, as well as afterwards,” Lowe said. “More than ever before has the coronavirus crisis made us students aware that we are an integral part of society, to which we can and want to contribute.”

The student-led movement is now in 24 cities, 14 countries and six continents.

Whether it’s buying a carton of milk or walking the dog, there are simple tasks that people in isolation or at high-risk cannot perform on their own, Lowe says.

“As young people, we feel that we have a responsibility to both help flatten the curve and lighten the burden for at-risk individuals self-isolating at home,” Lowe said. “Our focus is to accomplish necessary tasks for those who can’t go outside, such as getting groceries or picking up medication. Recently, we discovered a need to help moms tutor their elementary children over video chat.”

On Sunday, April 3, OC Against Corona partnered with Coast Hills Church in Aliso Viejo to distribute meals to those in need.

Lowe says he hopes to create more partnerships with local organizations and churches to reach as many people in need as possible.

As the public health situation unfolds, the OC Against Corona movement provides a platform to connect volunteers with those who need help. Students Against Corona stresses hygiene guidelines to avoid spreading the virus between volunteers and, most importantly, to those at-risk individuals whom they are helping.

If you are interested in volunteering with OC Against Corona or you or a loved one is in need of assistance, visit ocagainstcorona.com.

You can also find more information on the OC Against Corona Facebook page or by following @orangecountyagainstcorona on Instagram. DP danapointtimes.com

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CNPA AWARDS

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 danapointtimes.com

HOW TO REACH US S E N I O R C I T Y E D I TO R Lillian Boyd • 949.388.7700, x113 lboyd@picketfencemedia.com

SPORTS Zach Cavanagh • 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com

ADVERTISING PRINT & ONLINE

Lauralyn Loynes • 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

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Tricia Zines • 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com

GENERAL MANAGER Alyssa Garrett • 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

Advertising Sales (SJC) Debra Wells

EDITORIAL

ART + DESIGN

Senior City Editor, DP Times Lillian Boyd

Art Director Jasmine Smith

City Editor, SC Times Shawn Raymundo City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch Collin Breaux Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh Columnist Fred Swegles Special Projects Editor Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes

Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex O P E R AT I O N S General Manager Alyssa Garrett Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares FINANCE Finance Director Mike Reed Accounting & Distribution Manager Tricia Zines CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Jake Howard Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 13, Issue 15. The DP Times (danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.

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Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES PRINT

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Celebrations in the Midst of Uncertainty

BY NORB GARRETT, OWNER AND PUBLISHER OF PICKET FENCE MEDIA

The past month has not given us much to celebrate. Whether you think the state’s, nation’s and world’s response to COVID-19 is appropriate or an overreaction, the fact is there’s little any of us can do other than try to be compliant and respectful by following the health guidelines established to prevent the further spread of the virus.

As many businesses are shuttered or remain open while struggling to survive, school children stay at home, parents and families cope with lost jobs and incomes and uncertainty, layering stress and strain on all of us, it’s important to try to find a few rays of happiness and celebrate them.

In our communities, we’ve heard uplifting stories of neighborhoods holding virtual “happy hour” block parties online, local musicians and artists using their talents online to lift our collective spirits, families bonding around dusted-off board games with their homebound kids, and local businesses doing what they can to support the health care workers as they battle the coronavirus. The worst of times can sometimes bring out the best in people.

Here at Picket Fence Media, we have something to celebrate as well.

As we battle to keep our lights on due to the advertising budgets of local businesses being cut and events being canceled, on Monday, March 30, our staff learned we had won 10 prestigious editorial awards from the California News Publishers Association (CNPA).

It’s the most awards we’ve ever won in a single year and a testament to the work ethic and talent of our small, industrious group of reporters and designers. The San Clemente Times took five awards, the Dana Point Times three and The Capistrano Dispatch and SC Magazine one each.

Congratulations to Lillian Boyd, Shawn Raymundo, Zach Cavanagh, Fred Swegles, Jasmine Smith, Chelsie Rex, Randy Youngman and Andrea Papagianis on an amazing job covering our communities.

Our staff has stepped up big-time covering the COVID-19 crisis, too, working countless hours and weekends trying to keep you informed.

In response to the crisis, we launched a new daily e-newsletter in each community (SC Times Daily, DP Times Daily and The Dispatch Daily) to provide breaking news daily (go to our websites and click the News E-Blasts tab on the upper navigation bar to sign up).

We’ve also compiled a list (Local Eats) of area restaurants that are offering to-go and delivery services during the “stay-at-home” mandate, and every day we spotlight a local restaurant for free in our daily enewsletters to help those businesses stay afloat during the crisis.

You can help us continue to bring you free “Local News You Can Use” by becoming an “Insider” and doing your part to support local, independent journalism through this health crisis and beyond.

Please go to our websites, click on “Contribute” to learn how you can play an important role supporting the SC Times, DP Times and The Capistrano Dispatch.

We’re committed to doing our part to help keep you informed and aware of everything happening in our communities. Thanks for continuing to do your part, too. DP

4TH

PROFILE STORY

BY FRED SWEGLES

P L AC E

“Before He Made San Clemente, Ole Hanson Made Headlines as Seattle Mayor in 1919”

4TH

P L AC E

INSIDE PAGE LAYOUT AND DESIGN STORY BY FRED SWEGLES, DESIGN BY CHELSIE REX

“A Doggone Good Time at the Ole Hanson Beach Club Pool”

2ND P L AC E

SPECIAL PUBLICATION JASMINE SMITH, ANDREA PAGAGIANIS, RANDY YOUNGMAN, FRED SWEGLES

SC Magazine 2019 SAN CLEMENTE TIMES D I G I TA L

2ND

GENERAL EXCELLENCE SC TIMES STAFF

P L AC E

sanclementetimes.com

2ND

BREAKING NEWS

BY ZACH CAVANAGH

P L AC E

“Allegations of Racial Slurs

by Fans at San ClementeLincoln Football Game Incite Investigations”

4TH

BREAKING NEWS

BY ZACH CAVANAGH

P L AC E

“SCHS Football Removed from CIF-SS Playoffs, Player Ruled Ineligible” DANA POINT TIMES PRINT

3RD

P L AC E

COVERAGE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

BY LILLIAN BOYD, ADAM GILLES, SHAWN RAYMUNDO

“Allegations Disrupt Party Unity”

2ND P L AC E

FRONT PAGE LAYOUT & DESIGN CHELSIE REX, LILLIAN BOYD

May 24, Aug. 9, Dec. 27

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SPECIAL SPORTS SECTION ZACH CAVANAGH, JASMINE SMITH

P L AC E

Dolphin Football Preview

Norb Garrett Owner and Publisher of Picket Fence Media Page 7

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH D I G I TA L

5TH

P L AC E

LAND-USE REPORTING

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

“City to Negotiate Plans for Glamping” danapointtimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

SOAPBOX

TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 100 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DANA POINT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT on APRIL 21, 2020 the City Council of the City of Dana Point will conduct a hearing to consider the following: 2020 WEED ABATEMENT – AUTHORIZATION TO ABATE WEEDS Hearing Date:

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Hearing Time:

6:00 p.m. (or as soon thereafter as possible)

Hearing Location:

Dana Point City Hall Council Chambers, Suite 210 33282 Golden Lantern Dana Point, California 92629

Those desiring to be heard in favor or in opposition to this item will be given an opportunity to do so by emailing kward@danapoint.org or by writing to the City Council at 33282 Golden Lantern, Ste. 203, Dana Point, California 92629, Attention: City Clerk.

Please reference hearing title and date of hearing in any correspondence. For further information, you may contact the City Clerk at (949) 248-3505.

Any petition for judicial review of a decision of the Dana Point City Council is controlled by the statute of limitations provisions set forth in Sections 2.50.010 and 2.50.020 of the Dana Point Municipal Code and Sections 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the California Code of Civil Procedures. Any action or pro-

ceeding to attack, review, set aside, or void any decision of the Dana Point City Council is controlled by Section 2.50.010 and Section 2.50.020 of the Dana Point Municipal Code. In of, which attacks or seeks to set aside, or void any decision of the Dana Point City Council shall be limited to those issues raised at the hearings as provided in Chapter 2.50 of the Dana Point Municipal Code. Copies of the procedures for the conduct of City Council public hearings are available from the City Clerk.

KATHY M. WARD, CITY CLERK

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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

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

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PLUMBING

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UPHOLSTERY & INTERIORS

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Photo: Fred Swegles

Letters to the Editor TAXPAYERS, BEWARE OF TCA TONI NELSON, Capistrano Beach

I read Councilman Joe Muller’s guest opinion, “The Time Has Come for OCTA and TCA to Work Together” with alarm.

The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) was formed to build two toll roads, pay off the associated debt, return free roads to taxpayers and go out of business.

Instead, this agency has grown not only its huge debt but its sphere of influence, now horning in on a role that Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is perfectly equipped to handle itself.

Muller thinks he’s found a perfect solution by having the two agencies “share the same staff.” Only in Orange County could we come up with a “solution” billed as “smaller government,” where not one, but two organizations will be running a project. Five of OCTA’s directors are already directors at the TCA, a notoriously inefficient agency that has cost taxpayers billions as we pay for the same roads over and over again.

Mr. Muller says he’d like to hear “ideas on how to make government more efficient, transparent and effective.” How about explaining how a debt of $3.3 billion at completion of the two toll roads has grown to $4.9 billion in 2019, even after 20 years of principal and interest payments? Why did TCA directors refinance with capital appreciation bonds, which cause unpaid interest to be added to principal? Why will a debt burden that was supposed to be paid off in 2033 (San Juan Hills TCA) and 2040 (Foothill/Eastern TCA) cost an additional $11 billion to retire and won’t be paid off until 2050 and 2053, if then?

Why are developer fees $4,000-$6,000 Page 8

for a new single family residence in South OC and tolls are almost $9 one way on the 73? Even then, TCA’s documents assert that “there can be no assurances that the toll rates that are established will produce sufficient toll revenues to permit the payment of debt service.”

The TCA is now facing a devastating reduction in toll revenue due to the pandemic. It will likely face a serious cash flow problem, the need to sell investments in a declining market and the virtual certainty of operating outside its debt covenants. Perhaps its CEO was wise to leave the agency now, just as pension liabilities have been fully funded but TCA’s fiscal viability becomes even more uncertain.

TCA has been criticized for liberally sprinkling lucrative consulting contracts and political donations through surrogates and their PACs, ensuring that compliant officials are elected and appointed to its board. Let’s hope that with the current crisis, board members will at last be ready to ask some tough questions and rein in this agency before it collapses under a mountain of debt.

All taxpayers should be chilled by the fact that FETCA Board Chair, Christina Shea, was quoted recently in the Orange County Register as saying, “We would want to have free roads, but understanding the revenue, I don’t foresee it being ever free.” Look out, taxpayers, because no one at the TCA seems to be looking out for you.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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WELCOME TO THE GREEN ISSUE

The World Has Paused, but Green Living Continues to Grow This year marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day—and 2020 is the year events are going digital due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Social distancing has become a buzzword in this crisis era, during which people are staying indoors and being encouraged to not go outdoors so as to limit the spread of the outbreak. There are fewer cars on the roads, businesses have closed or scaled down operations, and people are turning to digital platforms as a result.

This is a challenging time for the world, but it is also a chance to pause and reflect. News reports are coming in about reduced carbon emissions, less pollution and increased wildlife activity during the global shutdown.

As we travel less and limit our

Not Blowing Smoke Your Guide to Smog Tests

By Collin Breaux

Anyone who moves to California with an out-of-state vehicle or buys a new car here is likely familiar with a smog test. But what exactly is it, and how do you pass one? A smog test checks the emissions and engine performance of a vehicle and is part of environmental regulations. We spoke with Ashkan Sean Nassirzadeh, owner of Planet Smog Check, for insight, and also researched state government information. Here are some pointers: PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR CHECK ENGINE LIGHT Perhaps you’ve noticed the dreaded “check engine light” coming on while driving. If it happens before planning to get a smog check, you’ll have to get it repaired.

“If that light is on, it’s indicating that the sensor is on,” Nassirzadeh said. “It will not pass.”

Smog checks additionally check to ensure repair jobs done by others were done correctly, Nassirzadeh said.

range of activities, that doesn’t mean environmentalism should stop. Now, more than ever, people realize the value of community and life. Our annual Earth Day Guide reflects that.

We have smog test tips, since incoming out-of-state vehicles still need to clear state guidelines. Check out our dive into a San Clemente nonprofit that aims for a clean ocean, and read our feature on community gardens where you can grow your own greens.

When the world returns to normal after this pandemic passes, we can all get back out there to visit these places in person and try out activities for ourselves. Until then, we hope this guide gives you some valuable ideas about how to take care of the planet.

“I’m pretty much an environmentalist at heart,” said Nassirzadeh, who is glad to explain smog checks to customers. “I’m here to make sure everyone is contributing to healthier air we breathe.”

MAKE SURE MODIFICATIONS ARE IN ORDER Emissions-related aftermarket modifications should be done within legal boundaries. Illegal modifications could cause you to fail a smog check.

The California Bureau of Automotive Repair says state and federal law generally prohibit modifications to vehicle emission control systems, and such parts must be original equipment from the manufacturer or be replacements for such.

“Modifications to your emissions controls are not acceptable unless the parts used are approved by the California Air Resources Board,” the Bureau of Automotive Repair website said. “ARB grants approvals in cases where the changes or aftermarket parts do not modify the performance of the emission controls in a way that increases emissions.”

SMOG CHECKS GENERALLY AREN’T EXPENSIVE OR TIME-CONSUMING The good news is you won’t necessarily break the bank or spend a whole day on a smog check. Smog checks can generally run anywhere from $30 to $80, depending on the type of vehicle. Usually when you get a smog check, you’re in and out of a smog check spot in a short time. Planet Smog Check advertises 15 minutes for walk-ins.

Always a Way to Recycle Despite closed centers, there are still plenty of ways to redeem CRVs

By Zach Cavanagh Personal recycling in California took a major hit in August 2019, as the state’s largest redemption recycling operator, rePlanet, shut down its 284 locations. RePlanet had operations in San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano.

At that time, Consumer Watchdog reported that 40% of California’s redemption centers had closed in the past five years.

The closures left many wondering where they could recycle and redeem their California Redemption Value (CRV) cans and bottles to do their part and earn a little money on the side.

Thankfully, for those in our South Orange County area, one company has swooped in to reopen some of the rePlanet centers under a new name. Ponce Recycling has taken over a few centers, including the center in Dana Point behind the Ralphs between Del Prado and Pacific Coast Highway.

Ponce also has recycling centers paired with Ralphs grocery stores in Mission Viejo at 25104 Marguerite Parkway and in the Aliso Viejo Town Center at 26901 Aliso Creek Road.

When rePlanet shut down, many turned to local retailers to fill their recycling needs.

However, it was the retailers that had looked to rePlanet to handle their recycling programs.

In San Clemente, those retailers had to set up a plan to accept and receive the redeemable bottles and cans or incur a $100 daily fine.

The retailers worked with CalRecycle, a state department, to acquire and set up an Option A affidavit to redeem CRV containers in their

stores. According to CalRecycle, there are three locations in San Clemente, three in Dana Point and four in San Juan Capistrano that will redeem CRV cans and bottles in their stores.

In San Clemente, the locations are Chevron at 1729 El Camino Real, Catalina Liquor at 102 Avenida Victoria and Fredi’s Liquor at 22 S. Ola Vista.

In Dana Point, the locations are CVS at 32900 Pacific Coast Highway, Gelson’s at 24 Monarch Beach Plaza and Chevron at 32842 Pacific Coast Highway.

In San Juan Capistrano, the locations are ARCO ampm at 28662 Camino Capistrano, Capistrano Liquor Mart at 31401 Camino Capistrano, El Nopal Mercado at 31451 Camino Capistrano and Farmers Market at 31109 Rancho Viejo Road.

If you can’t make it out to any of these locations yourself, there is another local option that can get there for you.

First featured in our Green Issue and on the cover of The Capistrano Dispatch back in 2016, 10-year-old Ryan Hickman and Ryan’s Recycling can help you out.

While the job for Ryan and his dad, Damion, became more difficult with the rePlanet closures last year, the Hickmans’ San Juan Capistrano recycling pick-up business is still rolling across Orange County. The Hickmans pick up recycling from a patron and take it to a recycling center.

To schedule a pick-up of your recycling, go to ryansrecycling.com/contact.

No matter the obstacles, there is always a way to do your part in the world of recycling.

Surfrider Foundation Defending the Seas for More Than 35 Years

By Shawn Raymundo In 1991, Surfrider Foundation earned national recognition when it won a landmark lawsuit under the federal Clean Water Act against two pulp mills that had been polluting the ocean o Humboldt County.

The two companies, Louisiana-Pacific Corp. and Simpson Paper Co., agreed to pay nearly $5.8 million in fines and stop polluting the water under a settlement agreement—the second-largest, at that time—under the Clean Water Act. “That case made national news, because it seemed so unlikely that these surfers would win this case,” says Surfrider CEO Chad Nelson. “That put Surfrider on the map.”

According to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency officials at the time, the two pulp mills had been dumping 40 million gallons of untreated waste into the ocean a day, Los Angeles Times had reported.

As a result of the e orts led by the small

organization of surfers, the two timber companies had also agreed to put in solar-heated showers at the nearby beaches, allowing surfers to wash o any to ic contaminants, according to the L.A. Times report.

After news broke of Surfrider’s major political victory, surfers from across the globe started calling the organization’s headquarters in San Clemente asking for help with their local issues. At that time, Nelson e plains, Surfrider’s operations were still small, having ust gotten o the ground a few years before.

“The organization was very small at that time it might’ve ust been primarily volunteers,” Nelson says. “But we started the grassroots e orts, and we said, We can’t solve your problems, but we can help you solve them.’ ” Thus began the e pansion of Surfrider Foundation, which currently has more than 80 chapters throughout the world. The first chapters were started right here in Southern California one in Orange County and one in

San Diego County.

“It’s been sort of organic growth since that time,” Nelson says, later adding: “It is still an organization that is grassroots very volunteer-driven.”

Surfrider was first formed in 1984 by Glenn Hening, Lance Carson, Tom Pratte, Chris Blakely and a host of other surfers. In the more than 35 years since, the Foundation has continued to address environmental threats to coastal environments worldwide.

As coastal defenders, Surfrider has focused its e orts on five key areas: beach access, clean water, ocean protection, coastal preservation and plastic pollution.

Across the world, addressing plastic pollution has been at the forefront of Surfrider’s campaigns. Surfrider lists more than 2 0 campaigns in which the organization has been victorious in fighting plastic pollution, and has 0 active campaigns right now to address the issue.

Nelson notes that a large amount of the

“These single-use disposable items, although convenient, are causing great harm to our environment and in most cases are things that we can find better alternatives for.” Surfrider CEO Chad Nelson

plastic polluting the seas originated from trash and debris found on the beaches, including plastic wraps, straws and polystyrene.

“These single-use disposable items, although convenient, are causing great harm to our environment and in most cases are things that we can find better alternatives for,” Nelson says. “So we’re kind of approaching that by educating the public about personal choice— skipping the bag, using reusable mugs, skipping the straw—and at the same time utilizing our policies to minimize these problems.”

One statewide e ort Surfrider is actively supporting is the California Recycling and Plastic Pollution Reduction Voter Initiative, which proposes to require that producers of singleuse plastic packaging transition to producing reusable and recyclable products by 2030.

The proposed initiative, which requires 9 0,000 signatures by April 21 in order to qualify for the ballot in the General Election this November, is meant to complement similar legislation in the state Senate and Assembly the California Circular Economy and Pollution Reduction Act, or Senate Bill 54 and Assembly Bill 1080.

Nelson e plains that the measures are meant put some of the onus on the organizations that are producing the pollution in order to resolve the problem.

One of the ma or key areas Surfrider is focused on in California is coastal preservation.

“Over 80 of the California coastline is eroding, and we are starting to see the impacts of sea level rise, and that is causing sort of encroachment on the sea as the ocean encroaches on our beaches,” Nelson says.

He notes there are challenges when dealing with preservation pro ects because of the inner play between the ocean, public space, private property and infrastructure that are being damaged by erosion.

To mitigate the issue, Nelson e plains that there are three potential responses. One is beach nourishment or sand replenishment.

Another is armoring where shoreline structures are put in place to hold back the sea and prevent more loss of sediment. And the third is coastal adaptation. “ Coastal adaptation is also really challenging, because we’re talking about moving infrastructure and moving property lines, and that’s pretty contentious,” Nelson says. “But in reality, that’s what we have to do to have healthy beaches in California.”

Nelson says a combination of those responses could be implemented to address the issue.

One e ample of this happening is at Capistrano Beach, where OC Parks recently presented some design proposals to help protect the amenities and public access to the local park. A couple of the current proposals are meant to be hybrids of those coastal preservation strategies.

Nelson notes that up and down California’s coast, cities and counties are working to figure out how to ad ust, as the sea level is estimated to rise by three to si feet within the ne t 100 years.

“That’s going to have ma or implication with how we coe ist in our coastline,” Nelson says. “It sounds like a long way o , but we’re already facing these issues today. They’re only going to accelerate.”

To learn more about Surfrider’s history, to volunteer with its South Orange County chapter or donate to its e orts, visit southoc. surfrider.org.

THE FRUITS OF LABOR

Harry Otsubo Community Gardens Offers Camaraderie, Creativity and a Culture of Caring in Dana Point

Lillian Boyd, Dana Point Times Catherine Waters waited six years for her first plot at the Harry Otsubo Community Gardens and now, about 20 years later, she gives thanks each time she walks through the garden’s gates.

It began when she first moved to Dana Point. A neighbor told her about the community garden and drove her to go see it.

“Five minutes later, I was at the counter at the Dana Point Community Center office putting my name on the waiting list,” Waters said.

After si years, Waters was allotted her first plot.

“That’s when my ourney as a smallspace fruit grower began. The plot I now have is Harry Otsubo’s former garden.

Gardens go into mourning when the loving gardener who fostered it leaves. Back then, in Harry’s absence, that plot had become overrun with stinging nettles, not a ton of fun to weed out.”

After clearing out the nettles, the first thing Waters did was plant four apple trees, one in each corner, with the intent of training them into espaliers. Espaliers are the horticultural and ancient agricultural practice of controlling woody plant growth for the production of fruit, by pruning and tying branches to a frame.

“Apples, in the theories available to home gardeners in those years, were not supposed to produce in Dana Point’s almost no-chill climate, but I decided to take a chance on low-chill varieties Winter Banana a good pollinator , Anna and Fu i grow them as espaliers and see what

happened,” Waters said. “Most years, we have wonderful crops that stretch from June to November.”

While a community garden o ers a solution for residents without backyards or space to garden, plots also allow for garden e perimentation. Some landscapes in Dana Point do not allow for certain vegetable gardening due to flooding risks.

“There is a camaraderie amongst many of the people who garden at Harry Otsubo Community Gardens,” Waters said. “They come from all walks of life, all professions.

With very few e ceptions, the gardeners are friendly people and also, some, quite rugged individualists. Gardening can definitely highlight individualism. Most of the gardeners are brethren in that we share a common interest.”

Waters reflects back on her roots and how her grandfather’s gardening influenced her love for growing from the earth. Waters’ grandfather had an allotment garden in Oakland in an integrated neighborhood.

“People from incredibly diverse backgrounds did e actly what he was doing,” Waters said. “Agriculture is a common thread that binds people, not an ethnic identity that divides them. I think a community garden brings this out in people.”

The Harry Otsubo Community Gardens consist of 50 plots of gardens that are maintained by individuals within the city.

The gardens are open to the public for viewing. It is open 10 a.m.- p.m. and is located at 24800 Stonehill Drive, Dana Point.

While Planting a Seed, They’re Sharing the Love

By Fred Swegles What if you could grow organic fruits and vegetables at home, in a compact space without even having to mess with soil? And use very little water?

San Clemente residents Greg and Lori Licht have taken the concept from their backyard into a charity endeavor—a nonprofit that supports food banks and encourages local residents to grow their own food.

We interviewed Greg Licht of San Clemente Urban Farms: What inspired you and Lori?

We originally bought a Tower Garden six years ago and placed it in our backyard. I grew up spending summers on my grandfather’s farm and loved growing things from an early age. When I learned about Tower Garden, I was amazed at how easy and quick it was to grow at home. I haven’t planted anything in the ground since.

How did that morph into San Clemente Urban Farms?

We were growing so much food on our one tower at home that we started giving it away to family and friends. About four years ago, Lori and I and a small group of friends were looking for a community service project. We knew about Family Assistance Ministries and their need for food donations. We realized that we could grow high-quality food quickly and in great quantities. So we added a couple towers and started growing more and donating.

How do Tower Gardens work?

It’s an aeroponic growing system that runs a small pump to circulate a nutrient solution over the roots on a timer. We don’t use soil, pesticides or fertilizers. Our system uses 90% less water and 90% less space than normal in-ground growing. We grow non-GMO, beyond-organic, nutrientdense, clean food. We are truly hyper-local.

You can’t get fresher produce anywhere.

Our mission statement is “to help feed those in need and educate people about the benefits of growing their own food and living a healthy lifestyle.” We are currently supplying three food banks: FAM, Laguna Food Pantry and Southern California Indian Center. We are feeding people in need the very best.

We are blessed to have been given space

by Mark Zane, owner of Bella Collina (San Clemente) golf club. We originally pitched the idea to Jay Pesicka, general manager of Bella Collina. Before we could finish all the reasons why this was a good idea for the community, Jay said, “OK, done,” and took it to Mark. We moved in about a month after first talking to Jay.

Earth Day Events

By Collin Breaux Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing guidelines, we will be listing virtual Earth Day events this year. Though in-person events have been canceled, the quarantine era gives us a chance to slow down, reduce our carbon footprint, reflect on being in harmony with nature and brainstorm plans for being good stewards of the planet.

APRIL 19 | EARTH DAY 50 VIRTUAL KICKOFF Time TBD. Earth Day Initiative is “building out an online platform and livestream video experience” to establish an online experience reminiscent of in-person events, in time for the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Plans include speakers, among them scientists and performers, as well as virtual workshops and virtual exhibitor booths promoting sustainability. earthdayinitiative.org.

Greg Licht, co-founder of San Clemente Urban Farms, arrives for a harvest. Photo: Fred Swegles

“We moved to San Clemente in January, 1997.

I was in the surf industry. After a long-term job as executive vice-president at Body Glove, I moved a new business and family here.” Greg Licht The food banks are in need now, more than ever. We just donated about 160 heads of lettuce, kale, Swiss chard, etc., and Laguna Food Pantry told us more people are coming in for food than before.

We are working every day and not slowing. We are following all federal and state recommendations and directives from Bella Collina.

Who supports you?

We want our local community to get involved and help. You can go to our website and see ways you can support the cause.

We have a great group of board members and family that help out on the farm. We also have two employees. Hopefully, we will get volunteers to help.

Who are your board members?

Myself and Lori, Mel Pasquale, Marco Gonzalez and Je Jonas. Ally Morris of The Happy Hour Agency is helping. Joe and Tiana Bard of Banzai Bowls are supporters.

A disabled veteran-owned company, AVCS from Arizona, donated enough money for us to buy 10 towers.

Our nonprofit is a Tower Garden distributor, so we make a little money each time we sell one. We are also planning Farm Stand sales. We o er seedlings for sale and plan to have classes and socials at the farm.

-

There is no better way to feed your

family nutrient-dense clean food than from right o your own tower. We are here to help the community and want people to join our Community Collective, where everyone can contribute to our food donations. We want to build a community of equipped and educated growers who take care of their families and help others.

The cost of a tower can be financed for zero interest over 12 months, at $51 per month, on our website, but then you are set up to grow for decades. The cost to operate a tower is very low. Our farm uses less electricity in one day than a home oven running for an hour. We have 26 towers.

The only other costs would be seeds, growing media like coco coir and nutrients.

Seriously, pennies.

What do you see as the farm’s future?

Food insecurity is real. Food problems like e-coli contamination are real. We believe in “better for all.” It’s not that hard to do. We want to supply more food banks and help people. We will need to grow our farm to do that. We have 26 towers in service. Each tower has 44 growing spaces, so we are producing 1,144 plants that harvest every four to six weeks. Our goal is to get to 52 towers—2,288 plants.

Can you handle that?

We have the space and have made the investment into electrical and plumbing to handle that many towers. Let’s just see what happens.

Learn more by visiting sanclementeurbanfarms.com

APRIL 20 | LIVESTREAMED STANFORD WOODS INSTITUTE CELEBRATION 1:30 p.m. Stanford is a long drive from Orange County, but this year you can celebrate environmental mindfulness with the university from the comfort of your couch.

Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment will host this event, and people are invited to join students and faculty for an online discussion of the progress made since the first Earth Day, and what the future holds for the planet. woods.stanford.edu.

APRIL 22 | VIRTUAL CLIMATE UPRISING Noon-5 p.m. Participate in a variety of workshops, teach-ins, and acts of solidarity. sandiego350.org.

PRI - | EARTH DAY WEEK Varying times. The 2020 “We Don’t Have Time Climate Conference” will broadcast discussions and daily shows from Washington, D.C., Stockholm and from almost all continents on Earth. The event is public, free and devoted to solutions on the climate crisis. wedonthavetime.org.

APRIL | EARTH CHALLENGE 2020 Time is up to you. Participate in a citizen scientist initiative to log and report environmental data. “The campaign will use a mobile app to collect billions of observations in air quality, plastic pollution and insect populations, providing a platform and valuable environmental insight to promote policy change in these areas,” the campaign website says.

This campaign comes at a time when turning to technology is a necessity for interaction. earthchallenge2020.earthday.org.

MAKE YOUR OWN EVENT Take the initiative and create your own event.

You could host a group chat on Zoom, FaceTime or other platform to discuss recycling, sustainable ways of living and tapping into green technology. Grassroots community discussions can often yield new insights and enable collaboration.

Boys & Girls Club

Green Programs The Boys and Girls Club of the South Coast Area is doing its part to be green-friendly while encouraging kids to be environmentally conscious and teaching the importance of recycling.

The nonprofit’s Torch Club a leadership and service program for middle school kids has been a shining e ample of how the youth can preserve and protect the local beaches.

“They started doing trash cleanups at the beach,” says Elizabeth Beas, the director of development for the Boys & Girls Club. “They’ve been doing it pretty regularly during the school year. So that was something they initiated on their own.”

Beas says that each school year, the Torch Club is encouraged to get involved in serving the community, finding ways to do something that’s meaningful to them.

“This year, they decided that they wanted to go outward facing in, really cleaning up the community,” she says.

And during the out-of-school program’s summer months, Beas notes that the Boys & Girls Club conducts its 10-week Brain Gain course that’s intended to help keep kids learning over the long break.

Throughout the course, she says, learning activities are done using recycled items such as water bottles, newspapers and toilet paper, to name a few.

“We’re really dependent on recycled goods; hand-me-down goods,” she says.

“We put them all to really good use.”

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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER El Torito

Luna Grill

Stella’s Serious Italian

34521 Golden Lantern St, 949.496.6311

32525 Golden Lantern, Ste E, 949.481.6800

17 Monarch Bay Plaza, 949.234.1679, View Menu

34471 Golden Lantern, 949.234.0063

Lupe’s Mexican Eatery

Stuft Pizza & Brewing

Gen Kai Sushi

33621 Del Obispo, Ste F, 949.558.5431

24821 Del Prado Ave, 949.240.6444, View Menu

Gemmell’s Restaurant The Picket Fence Media team has pulled together a comprehensive list of area restaurants that are open for take-out and delivery during this unprecedented “stay at home” order. For a complete list of all restaurants and cafés that are open, please visit danapointtimes.com. Please support these businesses if you can during these turbulent times and beyond. Source: The Dana Point Chambers of Commerce. DP

34143 Hwy 1, 949.240.2004

Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar

Subway

Glasspar

24582 Del Prado Ave, 949.276.4990

24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.240.6243

(Del Obispo) 949.429.5581

Maison 34320 Hwy 1, 949.218.8431

Subway

Maki Yaki Japanese Restaurant

(Camino del Avion/Golden Lantern) 949.248.3300

Good Choice Sushi 34700 Hwy 1, 949.363.8840

34119 Hwy 1, 949.234.1235

Harbor House Cafe 34157 Hwy 1, 949.496.9270

Monarch Beach Market

I Love Bagels

24040 Camino Del Avion, G, 949.429.8750

32545 Golden Lantern, B, 949.443.3300

Subway (Lantern District) 949.204.5423

Taco Surf

DANA POINT & CAPISTRANO BEACH

Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant 16 Monarch Bay Plaza, 949.661.1544

24901 Dana Point Harbor Dr. #120, 949.276.7202

A’s Burgers

It’s All About The Cake

Olamendi’s

34344 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.4460

24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive, b100, 949.240.7100

34660 Pacific Coast Hwy, 949.661.1005

Thai This

Agostino’s Ristorante Italiano

Jack’s Restaurant & Bar

OverVue Lounge and Deck

The Brig Restaurant

34700 Coast Hwy, 949.661.8266

24462 Del Prado Ave, 949.489.1903

25135 Park Lantern, 949.661.5000

34461 Golden Lantern St, 949.496.9046

Beach Harbor Pizza

Jamba Juice

Parallel Pizzeria

34473 Golden Lantern, 949.218.1920

32585 Golden Lantern, Ste G, 949.488.3435

34255 Hwy 1, 949.441.7406

Organic Tree Juice Bar

34195 Hwy 1, 949.661.5754

Thai Dara 34255 Hwy 1, 949.661.1251

34119 Hwy 1, Ste A, 949.240.7944

The Point Restaurant & Bar 34085 Hwy 1, 949.464.5700

Beach Hut Deli

Peking Dragon Restaurant

The Rib Joint

2 Ritz Carlton Dr., 949.542.3351

Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern

34171 Hwy 1, 949.493.9499

Bistro Provincia

25001 Dana Point Harbor Dr, 949.388.8900

Pepi’s Sports Bar & Grill 34235 Doheny Park Rd, 949.272.5957 or 714.227.0239

The Shwack Beach Grill

Jon’s Fish Market

Pick Up Stix

Turk’s Dana Warf

34320 Hwy 1, 949.443.5226

32525 Golden Lantern St., Ste DE, 949.496.2822

34683 Golden Lantern St, 949.496.9028

Kawamata Seafood

Project Social

Tutor & Spunky’s Deli

26881 Camino De Estrella, 949. 248.1914

24040 Camino Del Avion, Ste J, 949.424.2313

34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, #116, 949.248.9008

Proud Mary’s

Vibe Organic Kitchen & Juice

34689 Golden Lantern, 949.493.5853

34255 Hwy 1, #105, 949.259.5514

34294 Hwy 1, 949.661.9500

34091 La Plaza, 949.482.1011

Blue Dolphin Restaurant & Billiards

34665 Golden Lantern, 949.496.2807

34130 Hwy 1, 949.489.2936

Kamea Poke

Bonjour Café & Bistro 24633 Del Prado Ave, 949.496.6368

Brio Tuscany Grille 24050 Camino Del Avion, B, 949.443.1476

Las Golondrinas 34069 Doheny Park Road, 949.240.8659

Buena Vista Market 34065 La Plaza, 949.496.6491

Lil’ Skipper Snack Shack Grab & Go

24502 Del Prado Ave, 949.218.2731

What a Dish Cafe | It’s All About the Cake

34669 Golden Lantern, 949.424.9653

Raya at the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel

33585 Del Obispo St, # C&D, 949.496.0992

Little Kitchen Asian Café

1 Ritz Carlton Dr, 949.240.2000

24921 Dana Point Harbor Dr, b100, 949.276.4884

Rita’s Dana Point

Whitestone Restaurant & Bar

Coastal Kitchen

Longboard Rooftop Lounge

34212 Hwy 1, 949.629.8649

34091 Hwy 1, 949.449.2822

34402 Hwy 1, 949.661.1100

24845 Del Prado Ave, 949.443.2423

Craft House

Luciana’s Ristorante

Round Table Pizza

34094 Hwy 1, 949.481.7734

24312 Del Prado Ave, 949.661.6500

32525 Golden Lantern, 949.496.9800

Doheny Surf

Lucy’s El Patio Café

25300 Dana Point Harbor Dr, 949.661.1100

34226 Doheny Park Rd, 949.496.9074

Casanova Ristorante 24831 Del Prado Ave, 949.276.7799

Wind & Sea Restaurant

Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

34699 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6500

Zen Sushi Stacks Pancake House 34255 Hwy 1, 949.429.2222 Page 17

32545 Golden Lantern, 949.488.0933 danapointtimes.com

DP

Dana Point Point Dana

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Life’s a Beach

by Shelley Murphy

COVID-19: Déjà Vu All Over Again

A

s society struggles with ongoing social distancing and stay-at-home orders, I wrestle with becoming Bill Murray’s character in the movie Groundhog Day. Like Murray’s character, I awake with a strange sense of déjà vu and feel like I’m living the same day over again.

Soon, I’ll resemble the Punxsutawney weatherman if I don’t start social distancing from my pantry and refrigerator.

Like most of the population, I’ve been housebound for weeks, and it’s wearisome.

Hoping to break my cycle of monotony, I decided to ditch a few of my day-to-day practices.

I quit reading my horoscope. It’s apparent I can’t foresee the unpredictable twists and turns of the day’s events.

Also, a couple of days ago, my horoscope LIFE’S A BEACH

By Shelley Murphy read, “Isolating yourself certainly isn’t going to remedy the situation.” I doubt science and Dr. Fauci agree.

I’ve postponed flipping the pages of my monthly wall calendar; its square numbered boxes sit blank for the foreseeable future.

And, I’m tired of its taunting pictures of sandy beaches I won’t visit anytime soon.

I stopped checking the stock market.

Enough said.

I banned blow-drying my hair. It’s a muchneeded respite for my ashen roots, which I’m also avoiding.

I gave up reading novels. Instead, I caved and joined my clan on the couch to bingewatch Netflix.

Craving change, I incorporated a few new rituals into my daily routine.

Instead of sipping my morning coffee while watching the informative and newsworthy Today Show, I now start my day with the sunnier and funnier The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

I suggested our family begin playing board games again. After exhuming the battered boxes shoved deep into closets, we gathered in the family room to play Monopoly.

Minutes into the hours-long game, I remembered why we shelved the board game when my boys were preteens.

I welcomed my older son’s invitation to join him on his morning walks. My son and his girlfriend arrived home about a month ago—for a one-week visit.

I realize my son’s offer is a byproduct of boredom and captivity, but these days I’ll take what I can get.

I’m learning new technology. Evenings, I sit at my computer and join Zoom Video Communication happy hours to reunite with friends. I tried to Zoom with my parents, but Bill Gates can’t remedy that conundrum.

I’m tackling home improvement projects previously put on the backburner. Yesterday, I considered ordering wallpaper, but quickly realized wallpapering my bathroom is like cutting my hair—it’s a job for practiced professionals.

My family of groundhogs and I continually search for creative ways to pass our time in quarantine. Recently, my older son transformed our backyard into a putting green using pool noodles, diving rings, and umbrellas for flagsticks.

But, I admit, some family members are slower to acclimate.

While admiring our new greens, my husband turned to me and said, “Let’s heat the pool this weekend.” Perplexed, I stared back at him and said, “What? Every day is the weekend.” Then I suggested he grab a golf club and cease clinging to the calendar.

Photo: Courtesy of OC Public Libraries

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo was taken of land agents congregating in 1927.

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

I have, however, found one small silver lining in this terrible time: our dog has never been happier. She’s basking in her best friend’s attention all day, every day.

Unlike the rest of the world, her suffering will begin when the pandemic ends and my husband returns to work.

I’ve been thinking a lot about what the world will look like in the aftermath of this global pandemic. Life will transform; how can it not after the toll the virus inflicts on our worldwide physical and mental well-being?

We don’t know when the pandemic will end; its timeline is uncertain, with predictions ranging from weeks to months.

What we do know is tomorrow is a new

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Luigi

Last week’s solution:

DANA POINT TIMES

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 Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

day, despite the fact it’s likely to bring an overwhelming sense of déjà vu—and the prospect of becoming Bill Murray.

Shelley Murphy has lived in San Clemente with her husband for the past 21 years, where she raised her two sons. She’s a freelance writer and has been a contributor to the San Clemente Times, and sometimes Dana Point Times, since 2006. DP Times will be publishing a special series of columns, centered on COVID-19, written by Murphy. 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

L

See the solution in next week’s issue.

See the solution in next week’s issue.

uigi, a 2½-year-old Chihuahua mix, is patiently waiting until he finds his perfect match. Luigi is a mellow guy that would love to spend all day in your lap if you let him. He is often misunderstood, but once you get to know him, his lovable personality shines through. Luigi is a staff favorite and would do best in an adult home with a dog-savvy owner to call his own.

If you are interested in adopting Luigi, please visit petprojectfoundation.org to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed Page 18

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

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

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

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

Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times.

Call us today!

Contact Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700 ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

Page 19

danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

On Friday, April 3, the California Interscholastic Federation canceled the high school spring sports section, regional and state playoffs. Along with school closures, that likely ends the entire spring sports season. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Spring Dreams Over CIF cancels spring postseason, likely ends entire spring season

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), along with its 10 section commissioners, canceled the spring sports section, regional and state playoffs in an announcement on Friday, April 3. Along with school districts continuing to extend closures, that likely brings the end of the entire spring sports season.

“Based on the recent statements issued by Governor Newsom and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, regarding schools turning to distance learning for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year, the (CIF) does not see an avenue for the spring sports season to continue,” CIF executive director Ron Nocetti said in a statement. “We understand this is disappointing for everyone Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

involved in education-based athletics and empathize with our student-athletes and all who are impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.

“As always, our top priority is everyone’s ongoing health and safety during this challenging time, and we all look forward to the day when education-based athletics resumes.”

Spring sports consist of badminton, baseball, competitive sport cheerleading, boys golf, gymnastics, boys and girls lacrosse, softball, boys and girls swimming and diving, boys tennis, boys and girls track and field and boys volleyball.

“In arriving at this decision, I know that my colleagues and I thought about our studentathletes first, as in everything we do and our entire organization does, each and every day,” CIF-Southern Section commissioner Rob Wigod said in a statement. “These are unprecedented times for all of us and the most difficult decision I have faced in my 20 years working for the CIF-Southern Section office.”

CIF initially delayed a decision on the spring sports championships in its annual spring meeting with the state’s 10 section commissioners on March 17 and announced they would revisit the issue in a meeting on April 3.

“It is my sincere hope that there will be a renewed appreciation for high school athletic programs and how truly special they are,”

Wigod said. “We now have the chance to reset our priorities and can utilize this opportunity to help us move forward in a positive way.”

CIF and Southern Section only control the fate of the spring sports playoffs and championships. The regular season is organized by the local schools and districts.

The Capistrano Unified School District closed its schools on March 13. CUSD had initially closed schools through April 3 and then pushed the closure until May 1. On Thursday, April 2, CUSD extended its distance learning until further notice.

While the schools are closed, no events— athletic or otherwise—can take place. CUSD will make a further decision at a board meeting on April 15, but with the CIF announcement and the CUSD distance learning extension, the writing appears to be on the wall for the full cancellation of the spring sports season.

“It’s a bummer for these seniors they don’t get the opportunity to showcase their skills,” Dana Hills baseball coach and athletic director Tom Faris said. “This is heartbreaking for them, the coaches, the coaching staffs, and the entire Dana Hills community.”

Faris mentioned that a full cancellation would cause trouble logistically for the dis-

Page 20

trict schools, whose teams would lose a year of league-placement criteria for movement between the South Coast and Sea View Leagues. Faris also acknowledged that those concerns pale in comparison to the current situation at large.

Faris’ daughter, Katie Faris, is also a senior at San Clemente High School and a swimmer signed on to continue her education at Boise State.

Faris said that the disappointment runs high for the individual athletes, like Katie, who don’t get to compete for championships, and furthermore, may have to go on without a senior prom or graduation ceremony.

The CIF decision will also have ramifications into the summer, as section commissioners, athletic directors and coaches figure out how to handle these empty periods and eventually summer camps, tournaments, football passing leagues and the like.

The next step in the high school sports community is to see what changes, if any, are made to the summer schedule and then if these decisions continue to affect fall sports, particularly the CIF-SS’ money-maker: football.

Until then, the spring season seems to be at a close as the latest coronavirus cancellation in the sports world. DP danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Tanner Gudauskas Brings Back VHS Surf Movies

GROM OF THE WEEK

TALLON GORDON

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

allon Gordon is all about throwing shakas, and it’s a wonderful thing. Living that amazing San Clemente grom life, the 10-year-old goofy-footer defines what it means to stay stoked.

A regular at local spots such as T-Street and Trestles on his epic Cole Simler custom shapes, he’s also a regular in the area’s grom competitions—enjoying the camaraderie on the beach with his friends as much as he enjoys pulling on the jersey.

When the surf’s blown out or the swell’s dropped, Tallon, aka “T-Rex,” can be found ripping around town on his skateboard.

Whether he’s on a mini-ramp, at a skate park, or just skating streets with his buddies, the kid has some serious skills.

One of the things it takes to be a great skater is to have the determination and ability to take a fall and get up, and with his ever-growing arsenal of tricks, Tallon knows how to push himself.

And to round out his board-sport mastery, he also shreds on a snowboard. Long weekends at Mammoth have him as fired up as a good day at Trestles. DP

San Clemente surfer is sharing some of his favorite videos from yesteryear

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

L

ooking for something to do during these slow quarantine days? Well, you can keep the stoke level elevated and get a lesson in surf history courtesy of Tanner Gudauskas.

The San Clemente shredder has launched a website called The Paradise Awareness Outreach and a YouTube channel called Vibe Up. Tanner is not only streaming some of the most classic surf movies of all time, he’s also having live chats with some of the stars. From world champ Mick Fanning to high-flyer Dane Reynolds—and a whole crew of famous characters in between—his interviews are candid, insightful and highly entertaining.

“My brothers, Pat and Dane, and I have been talking about launching something like this just to keep the vibes up and the stoke levels high,” Tanner said, when we caught up last week. “We’re going to be launching a bigger version of it later this spring or summer, but with everything going on right now, I figured we could fire some people up right now.”

With his “pirate radio,” Tanner’s quickly learned the technical aspects of how to make a production like this work. Armed with a small, 14-inch TV with a built-in VCR and some other basic components, the learning curve has been steep, yet satisfying.

“In a technicality sense, I’m at a level white belt,” Tanner said. “I called a friend who had helped do all the Triple Crown broadcasts, and he’s working with Vans and lives in town. Really cool guy; we’re good friends. He had an encoder at his house.

“He walked me through how to set it up.

In my room, I have an ethernet cable to the Internet, an encoder that hits to YouTube live and my phone, and somehow they all sync and I can push it live.”

So far, Tanner’s streamed classics such as Searching For Tom Curren and Raw Irons, and he has a lot more classics on his list.

He’s kicking off his live streams around noon every weekday. As noted, he spends some Dana Point Times April 10-16, 2020

Tallon Gordon. Photo: Courtesy of the Gordon Family Original Positive Vibe Warrior Tanner Gudauskas is keeping things light and loose during these challenging times. Photo: Courtesy of Jimmy Wilson / Vans

time chatting with his favorite surfers before rolling into the film of the day. This week, he’s catching up with world champs Tom Carroll and Lisa Andersen, filmmaker and adventurer Chris Malloy, and outspoken icon Bobby Martinez.

And when the production’s wrapped, Tanner’s been grinding on the yardwork to keep his mind clear and his body tuned.

“I’ve been chainsawing a lot. I have a bunch of trees that are overgrown,” he says.

“I’ve also been weed whacking a whole bunch. So, I have a lot of yardwork to do, and that’s cool, because I just basically plug into that two hours every day, and at the end of the day, I feel good. Dude, you’d be surprised, like if you’re literally hiking like 40-pound pieces of plant up a hill, it’s a pretty good workout.”

His other current form of physical train-

ing? Dancing. He and his fianceé, Shelby, have been moving and grooving in the evenings to keep things light and fun.

“We have been turning up the music loud and dancing, which is funny. It seems just like a normal, fun, uplifting activity. But you do get a psycho workout on that one, too,” says Tanner. “Last time I surfed was at Cotton’s Point with Dane-O. He was on a Skip Frye. I was on a twin-pin. It’s been awhile. It feels like a ton of time now.”

In terms of how Tanner’s handling these slow days while he’s stuck at home and chasing swells has been temporarily put on hold, he’s taking it all in stride, making the most of the slow days like the rest of us.

“I’ve been having actually really nice days just hanging with Shelby and the dogs,” he says. “It’s just a rollercoaster ride, and I hope that we get through it sooner than later.” DP

Page 22

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 59-61 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-12’ Outlook: South swell tapers off Friday, along the a small Northwest swell, for waves running shoulder high to a foot overhead, (4-5-6’), with light onshore winds in the morning followed by a moderate westerly sea breeze during the afternoon.

South swell continues to fade through the weekend for mostly waist-stomach high leftovers (2-3’+) by Sunday, as top spots occasionally see some sets up to chest high (4’). Diurnal winds with favorable morning conditions then moderate afternoon onshores expected over the weekend.

danapointtimes.com