EYE ON DP

(Cont. from page 3) Trustees Area 5—which covers Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel—discussed various issues during a virtual forum conducted by the Oak Grove Elementary Parent Teacher Association on Wednesday, Sept. 30. The seat will be decided in the November general election.

The three candidates are incumbent Krista Castellanos and challengers Jasmine Funes and Paul Hebbard. Castellanos is a transitional kindergarten teacher in Santa Ana Unified School District and has children in CUSD. Funes works in mental health with families and is an adjunct professor. Hebbard is a certified public accountant whose wife is a teacher.

Candidates were asked what the biggest issues in the district are. Hebbard said school reopenings, which began this week, are first and foremost, along with expected upcoming revenue shortfalls related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hebbard suggested funding issues could be mitigated with salary cuts.

“In my opinion, this should have been done by Labor Day,” Hebbard said of campus reopenings. “We should have had schools open long ago.”

Funes said ensuring positive mental health for children is crucial, as is safely navigating the health crisis.

“The COVID piece, we’re already opening. We’re following the reopening plan. Everything takes time,” Funes said. “Looking at how the plan is working (is important). I’ve heard so far from you all (that) it’s been positive thus far, although we’ve heard some teacher feedback about how they didn’t feel included in this process. Engaging them is a very important piece of what we need to do currently.”

Castellanos said student learning loss during the pandemic is a concern.

“We need to work together,” Castellanos said. “It is very important to include all stakeholders. We have our teachers as stakeholders. We have you as parents. We have our entire community that needs to be involved in this process.” —Collin Breaux

Orange County to Stay in Red Tier as Daily Cases Rise Slightly

THE LATEST: Orange County will remain in the red “substantial” tier on California’s color-coded COVID-19 monitoring system for at least a few more weeks, as the latest data released by the state’s health office on Tuesday, Sept. 29, showed a slight uptick in new daily cases.

For about the past two weeks, the county’s metrics on new daily cases and test positivity rate met the qualifications to enter the orange “moderate” tier—the third-highest of four state risk levels—allowing certain economic sectors to expand services.

But Tuesday’s data put the county’s daily case rate at 4.4 per 100,000, up from the 3.6 cases the week prior. To qualify for the orange tier, a county must have between 1 to 3.9 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 and a test positivity rate between 2% and 4.9%.

Last Tuesday, Sept. 22, the county had 3.6 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000, with a 3.1% positivity rate, marking the first time the county had met the orange-risk level in both metrics. However, the county’s daily case rate rose to 4.4 on Tuesday, while the test positivity rate remained at 3.1 %, resetting the two-week clock before the county can move to orange.

The state mandates that counties must remain in a tier for a least 21 days. To move to a lower tier, the county must meet both of that specific tier’s metrics for two consecutive weeks. If the county has met those metrics for 14 consecutive days when the 21-day waiting period has passed, it can move down to the next tier.

However, if there is a spike and the county’s numbers increase to purple-tier levels for 14 consecutive days, Orange County could be moved back to the widespread tier—the highest-risk level. —Shawn Raymundo and Zach Cavanagh

Palisades Elementary Reports COVID-19 Case Before Students Return to Campus

THE LATEST: At least one person who tested positive for COVID-19 was at the Palisades Elementary School campus from Sept. 18-22, Principal Lisa Baggio said in a letter to school families.

No students were on campus then, and the case was considered a “low risk exposure.” “Staff have taken the necessary steps to properly sanitize and clean the campus in preparation for staff and students to return,” Baggio said.

Students began returning to campuses this week in Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD). CUSD has implemented a phased return to campus for various grade levels, with students returning to preschool through fifth grade starting on Sept. 29 through Oct. 5. Higher grade levels will return in the coming weeks.

CUSD has health protocols in place if a student or staff member has symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19. A person showing symptoms—such as fever, cough or loss of taste or smell—will be sent home and advised to get tested, though the classroom and school will remain open.

As for a confirmed case, the school community and local health department will be notified. That person will be excluded from school for 10 days from the onset of symptoms or test date, and exposed contacts will have to quarantine for 14 days after the infected person was at school.

Classrooms and other relevant spaces will be disinfected. The school will remain open.—CB

NEWS BITES

COMPILED BY STAFF

R.H. Dana Students Receive Donated Technology Backpacks

Cox Communications and Orange County United Way teamed up to deliver 25 technology backpacks to RH Dana Elementary School students

Kristen Nelson, RH Dana principal, welcomed visitors from both United Way and Cox Communications on Thursday, Sept. 24, as the backpacks were delivered.

“We so appreciate partnerships with both of these organizations. What a great way to be greeted during your first week of in-person learning but to get a new backpack with donated technology and supplies,” Nelson said.

As school resumes in person, Nelson says these backpacks provide a safe way for students to get their technology and supplies to and from school. Backpacks include items such as wireless mouse and headphones, Chromebook protective cases, school supplies, and handwritten notes of encouragement from Cox Communications employees. In addition, several hundred personal face masks were also provided for the soon-to-be returning students.

“We greatly enjoy being able to help students with their learning and forming a partnership with both Cox Communications and RH Dana Elementary School,” said Sue Parks, CEO of Orange County United Way. “This is just the beginning of a wonderful partnership and making things better for this school and these students and families.”

The Orange County United Way is also sponsoring a financial literacy program at RH Dana, which will begin in January. Parents will have the chance to be provided with personal coaching on a step-by-step financial plan to achieve personal goals and long-term financial stability, including job development, debt and credit management, and savings planning. Participants will also be able to

Twenty-five R.H. Dana Elementary School students received technology backpacks thanks to a partnership with Cox Communications and Orange County United Way. Photo: Courtesy of Principal Kristen Nelson

Community Meetings

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6

DANA POINT CITY COUNCIL 6 p.m. The Dana Point City Council will hold a regularly scheduled meeting in council chambers at 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 210, Dana Point.

connect to other United Way partner services, including free tax preparation, housing, health care, and transportation.

Still Life Ceramics Opens First Orange County PopUp Location at DP Harbor

Dana Point Harbor has announced the opening of Still Life Ceramics pop-up shop. Located next to iHeartYoga, the ceramics studio and pop-up shop features handmade ceramics from local artists and hosts classes and workshops open to beginner and professional potters alike.

A Los Angeles-based brand, Still Life Ceramics at Dana Point Harbor marks the first location in Orange County. The new studio officially opened on September 23 for pottery classes and shopping. A variety of classes will be available WednesdaySaturday at 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. for beginners, experienced potters, and kids, including the popular “Rosé & Clay” class in which participants are invited to enjoy a free glass of rosé at The Harbor Grill Restaurant following the class. Classes and retail shopping will operate at a limited capacity in alignment with current safety protocols, and masks will be required.

“We are looking forward to sharing our passion with Dana Point locals and visitors,” said Still Life Ceramics co-founders Mel Keedle and Ana Henton. “Still Life Ceramics offers a variety of classes for all skill levels, including online and in-person classes, so there’s something for everyone.”

Classes can be booked online, and are expected to sell out. Retail shopping hours will be available before and after each class.

Directional signage has been placed throughout the Harbor to promote physical distancing, hand sanitizer stations have been installed, and cleaning and sanitation have increased in all common areas and restrooms throughout the Harbor.

For more information about Dana Point Harbor, visit DanaPointHarbor.com or connect on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com

The Race for City Council

Leading up to the Dana Point City Council election on Tuesday, Nov. 3, Dana Point Times will be publishing six questions, one each week, answered by the candidates who qualified for the ballot. This year, the seats for Districts 4 and 5 are up for election. To view previous answers, visit danapointtimes.com. DP

WEEK 5 / QUESTION 5

Do you think Dana Point’s future is headed in the right direction? Why or why not?

MIKE FROST DISTRICT 4

The best days for Dana Point are ahead, and during the next four years, we have an amazing opportunity to continue to prioritize essential services and community needs, recognizing what we do well and modifying what we’d like to see improved. I am committed to working together with the other councilmembers to analyze future issues, determine costs associated with each issue, and make decisions based on what provides the community the most value.

Leadership as a city council member, strategy as an executive, or even volunteering as a community member consists of many qualities, but ultimately must include the belief and passion to improve every day. As your District 4 Councilmember, I am committed to maintaining and improving the community through three perspectives: • First, preserving and promoting the longterm historic character of a laid-back beach town atmosphere and community. Working in conjunction with tourism leaders, business leaders, and residential stakeholders to position Dana Point as an arts, culture and music destination, anchored by our renowned resorts, restaurants and retailers. • Second, managing the operations of our community through a fiscally conservative mindset. Including maintaining public safety as a key priority within the budget, and improved decision making to minimize unnecessary litigation costs. From a Lantern District development standpoint, I will ask the council to re-engage a town-center subcommittee and draft improvements to promote smaller structures, and a better walking/shopping/ dining experience, while minimizing traffic on the adjacent residential streets. • Third, enhanced community engagement, and recognizing that districting has provided this unique opportunity for each councilmember to have a very detailed understanding and closer relationship to the residents. For example, speeding and traffic safety throughout District 4 is a very critical issue, and must be addressed.

As your District 4 councilmember, I am committed to working for incremental improvement each day. mikefrostfordanapoint.com.

GARY NEWKIRK DISTRICT 4

I fell in love with Dana Point because it has all the ingredients of a great town—breathtaking natural beauty and views, world-class beaches, incredible weather and wonderful people. We have tremendous opportunity to build on what we already have, overcoming a few bumps in the road as we move to a brighter future and even better community.

We can enhance our offerings in all these areas: • Culture and entertainment—The best cities are the ones with lots of enjoyable things to do. That means interesting dining and shopping areas, outdoor and sporting activities, live music, public art, etc. We have an opportunity to expand offerings in all these areas. • Convenient amenities—Residents and tourists need easy access to all the conveniences and needs of daily living. There is an opportunity to improve amenities (and our sales-tax revenue) by making sure everyone can fulfill these in Dana Point. • Social gatherings—Post-pandemic, more walkable streets, patio dining and park enhancements will encourage community engagement. • Visual interest—Dana Point is always visually interesting, but we can do more— clean streets with good lighting, attractive landscaping, exciting storefronts, and general beautification will boost our appeal. • Accessibility—The best towns are easy to walk, bike or drive around. That means easy access to all the amenities. Our biggest challenge: convenient parking. • Memorable character—Dana Point has no shortage of character, but there are always opportunities to create more hometown pride and a memorable experience that keeps people coming back.

Dana Point is heading in the right direction, but I’d like us to get further, faster. We have some fiscal and development challenges, but I have no doubt we can create an even better city by focusing on elements that enrich our costal culture and identity.

Please visit newkirk4dp.com.

BENJAMIN BEBEE DISTRICT 5

I believe Dana Point’s future is very bright.

We have a vibrant business district with many excellent eateries and shops. If elected, I will work to revitalize Capistrano Beach and create similar commercial opportunities to Dana Point’s Lantern District.

We have a harbor and beaches to rival any, complete with world-class whale watching. If elected, beach restoration for Capistrano Beach will be a top priority of mine. Giving Capistrano Beach that same appeal of Dana Point’s Harbor District and creating a tourism one-two punch for the city.

We have some of the most desirable residential spaces in the country surrounded by stunning scenic open spaces. If elected, I will work to find additional opportunities for entry level homeownership, missing middle housing, and affordable housing. We can give families the opportunities they need to succeed and be productive members in our community for generations to come.

We have a strong public education system. I know that we are moving through unprecedented territory within our education system, and I will listen to our educators and work with them to assist them in any way I can. I will advocate for our children. As someone who is passionate about education, I will seek out funding to ensure our future leaders get the great start they need to thrive and succeed.

Most of all, we have great people driving our community forward. I’m confident that if elected, I can provide the type of cooperative spirit and strong leadership we need to drive Dana Point forward as an example for the rest of Orange County. We can work together to create a bright future for Capistrano Beach, Dana Point, and all of South Orange County.

Orange County Professional Firefighters Association Local 3631 endorses Benjamin Bebee for Dana Point City Council. bebee4capobeach.com.

MICHAEL VILLAR DISTRICT 5

I know it is common for candidates running for political office to tear down the current elected officials and diminish any accomplishments to better their own position in a race. That is not my view at all. We have so much to be thankful for, and I commend past council efforts and our outstanding city staff.

I have not always agreed with some of the views of all of our councilmembers, but I certainly appreciate their effort and decisions they have made in the best interests of our residents. My concern is that sometimes decisions have been made that may have been influenced by personal, political, or corporate influence. When I see councilmembers forming a pact and voting together on almost every issue, I am concerned that they may not be listening to the voices of residents. Councilmembers have a special duty to represent their own districts while serving and being fair to all residents of Dana Point.

As a retired Marine, I understand what it means to take an oath of office and to serve the public. I will never forget that I represent the voters of Capistrano Beach, and I will always represent them above anything else, while remembering that I have a duty to make decisions that are fair to all residents of our city.

This is local non-partisan government, which means it should remain non-political and respectful. We do not have to follow the same path we see on the national political scene. Whether you are Republican, Democrat, Independent or NPP, it should make no difference in our city chambers. If we remember who we serve and do our best to keep residents’ interests first, Dana Point will continue to move in the right direction.

Please visit my website at villarfordanapoint.com.

DP Dana Point

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

A memorial to Kurt Reinhold, the 42-year-old Black homeless man who was shot by homeless outreach deputies during an altercation last week, rests on the sidewalk outside Hotel Miramar, the location where he died. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

Letters to the Editor

DOGGIE DOO STAINING DANA POINT HARBOR

DAVID MANN, Capistrano Beach

I have lived in Capistrano Beach for over 33 years and walk the Dana Point Harbor two to three times a week. The walk has become more and more challenging over the years, not because of my age, but because of dog poop and stains on the sidewalk that, at times, are difficult to avoid stepping on. I believe this is a problem not only for locals but for tourists as well. This has become a stain on the City of Dana Point. This problem needs to be addressed and solved. Perhaps there can be some locations in the Harbor that can be set aside for dog owners to walk their dogs that would solve this problem. There may be other ideas to resolve this problem.

A DIALOGUE ON RACE WITH NEIGHBORS

MIA LA LONDE, Capistrano Beach

I received an anonymous note in our mailbox expressing “sadness” over the presence of our Black Lives Matter sign in our front yard. The author wrote that the community was sad about the sign, that the sign is “divisive,” and that the community doesn’t “deserve it.”

I am curious about these statements. Why would a sign for racial justice be divisive? What part of it makes someone sad? Perhaps they don’t know what this sign means? Perhaps they don’t know what the Black Lives Matters movement is about?

By us putting this sign up, it is the least we can do to say we stand for racial justice, because in a free society, no one is free until everyone is free. Although slavery ended over a hundred years ago, systems of oppression have long held back Black Americans up to today. Our own county has a long history of racism and keeping out the “other” (fullertonobserver. com/2020/07/27/a-brief-history-of-housing-discrimination-in-fullerton-and-northorange-county). To dismiss this reality is to turn a blind eye to the continuous mistreatment of fellow Americans of color.

The Black Lives Matters movement is about acknowledging the racist system that affects Black Americans and changing that system for real equality. To me, this is a message all Americans can get behind.

There was no name or number in the note. Maybe if there was, we could have had a discussion. Though if you are a close neighbor, we are always welcome to chat. Stay safe.

KURT REINHOLD KILLING

MATT EGAN, San Clemente

With the killing of Kurt Reinhold, the OC Sheriff’s Department has brought the BLM movement to San Clemente. The city of San Clemente needs to reassess the viability of retaining the Orange County Sheriff's for our police protection.

This senseless, sad killing will cost the city millions. When two professionally trained officers cannot subdue and arrest a smaller, unarmed man, then they are either poorly trained or the job requirements and training need to be changed.

Because the result of the existing system is about to get very expensive. Those millions are not in the budget, and the future pension liabilities alone are budgetbusting.

San Clemente should approach Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano to create a tri-city police force (to share administrative expenses), with the training and pension parameters that meet our needs and our budget.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to letters@danapointtimes.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday. 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 or fewer words. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published. Dana Point Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory. In the inter est of fairness, DP Times will not publish letters submitted by candidates running for elected offices between the time they file for candidacy and the date of the election.

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Dana Point Times, Vol. 13, Issue 40. The DP Times (danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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