January 8, 2021

Family Day-Trip Getaways PAGE 11

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

JANUARY 8-21, 2021 • VOLUME 19, ISSUE 1

Looking Ahead Mayor John Taylor Previews Putuidem Village, Housing Developments, What to Expect in 2021 E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6

San Juan Capistrano Mayor John Taylor is shown at the city’s Northwest Open Space, where Putuidem Cultural Village is expected to open in 2021. Photo: Collin Breaux

Former OC Sheriff Dies of Cancer EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

OCSD Investigating Alleged Assault of Special Needs Man EYE ON SJC/PAGE 5

thecapistranodispatch.com

New Businesses Coming to The Ranch EYE ON RMV/PAGE 9

The Capistrano Dispatch January 8–21, 2021

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EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week

Sandra Hutchens, the first female sheriff of Orange County, died on Monday, Jan. 4, after a long bout with breast cancer. She was first appointed by the Orange County Board of Supervisors to lead OCSD in 2008. Photo: File

Former Sheriff and Dana Point Resident Sandra Hutchens Dies After Long Bout with Cancer THE LATEST: Sandra Hutchens, a former Dana Point resident and the first female sheriff of Orange County, died on Monday, Jan. 4, after a long bout with breast cancer.

Hutchens was appointed sheriff in 2008 by the Orange County Board of Supervisors, following the conviction of her predecessor, Mike Carona, on corruption charges.

Hutchens had spent nearly three decades in law enforcement before retiring in 2007 as the Division Chief for the Office of Homeland Security of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, overseeing more than 1,000 personnel and eight bureaus.

Her leadership experience helped set her apart in the field of nine finalists that were being considered for that job, according to state Senator and then-Fifth District Supervisor Pat Bates.

“I think, certainly, that her resume puts her in the top tier,” Bates previously told The Capistrano Dispatch. “She’s had 29 years of experience in the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and worked her way up to fourth in command before she retired.”

“She took office at a difficult time. The public’s trust had been broken by the previous sheriff. Upon taking office, she immediately took action to put one of the nation’s largest law enforcement agencies back on track,” incumbent Sheriff Don Barnes said in a statement. “She was a The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

leader whose ethics matched the culture of the men and women of this department.

She restored our pride, gave us back our dignity and rebuilt trust with the people we serve.”

In the wake of her death, Bates described Hutchens as an incredible public servant of the highest ethical standard.

“She was a trailblazer who worked hard to restore trust to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department during a tough period in its history,” Bates said. “She faced challenges and controversy with a fortitude and grace that left a lasting legacy.”

She won the election in 2010 and won an uncontested reelection bid in 2014. But among those controversies during her tenure, Hutchens faced criticism for revoking concealed weapons permits that Carona had issued.

The Orange County Register reported that Hutchens also acknowledged inadequate deputy training that could have contributed to improperly used informants in prosecuting defendants.

In 2017, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) called for Hutchens to resign, alleging inhumane and violent conditions in the Orange County jails. That year, she announced she would resign at the end of her term rather than seek reelection.

Before her term had expired, however, she recommended that Barnes, her thenUndersheriff, take her place. He went on to win the 2018 election for OC Sheriff.

According to Barnes’ statement, Hutchens was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012.

“She courageously fought this disease while still leading this department,” Barnes said. “Her fight was successful for eight years. Unfortunately, the cancer recently returned and Sheriff Hutchens passed this morning with her loved ones by her side.”

Barnes described Hutchens as a close mentor and friend.

“I will continue to be inspired by her commitment to always do the right thing, regardless of the consequences, and serve with the department and community’s interests first without need for self-recognition,” Barnes said.

In accordance with Sheriff Hutchens’ wishes, there will not be a memorial service. Her family asks that donations be made in her name to Drug Use Is Life Abuse at duila.org or the Susan G. Komen Foundation at komen.org.—Lillian Boyd

State Aims to Accelerate Vaccine Distribution, Provides Details on Next Phases THE LATEST: As the winter surge in the

San Juan Capistrano

TOTAL CASES

COVID-19 UPDATES as of 1/6/21

cases

deaths

TOTAL

1,883

19

LAST 30 DAYS

913

2

LAST 30 DAYS

est. population • 36,318 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for daily local & county statistics. Source: Orange County Health Care Agency

coronavirus pandemic begins to plateau—either as a realistic trend or due to holiday-lagged testing and reporting—the state of California continues to formulate further phases of its COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan.

The state’s first step in the here and now is to administer more of the doses currently in the state supply to its Phase 1A recipients.

As of Monday, Jan. 4, Gov. Gavin Newsom reported that 454,306 first doses had been administered of the 1,297,000 total doses the state had received. Newsom said that 611,500 are scheduled to be shipped, with the second doses arriving this week.

Newsom said the state is aggressively working to accelerate the pace of vaccine administration by engaging with the health system more directly by having dentists administering the vaccine along with pharmacy techs, the National Guard, as well as clinic and doctor partnerships.

The state is also working with pharmacy programs from CVS and Walgreens to administer the vaccine to skilled nursing facilities.

Phase 1A is currently providing the vaccine to health care workers and long-term care residents.

Newsom provided more details on Phase 1B, which is split into two tiers and should begin later this month. In Tier One, individuals 75 and older and workers in education, child care, emergency services, food and agriculture are eligible to receive the vaccine.

Phase 1B Tier Two will include individuals 65 or older and workers in transportation and logistics; industrial, commercial residential and sheltering facilities and services; and critical manufacturing. Tier Two will also include incarcerated and homeless individuals in congregate settings.

Newsom also introduced Phase 1C, which will include individuals 50 and older

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or people over age 16 with underlying health conditions or disabilities that increase COVID-19 risk. Phase 1C will also include workers in water and wastewater; defense; energy; chemical and hazardous materials; communications and IT; financial services; government operations and community-based essential functions.

These guidelines and distribution plans are discussed by the state’s Community Vaccine Advisory Committee, whose meetings can be viewed weekly online at covid19.ca.gov.

As of Tuesday, Jan. 5, the Southern California region remained under the state’s regional stay-at-home order, as the state’s four-week ICU projection for the region still had not met the standard of 15% available capacity needed to exit the order.—Zach Cavanagh

New Year Puts New Laws on the Books THE LATEST: Several new state laws impacting the workplace, education and property owners went into effect at the start of the New Year, with a few others expected to become effective in the months ahead.

Minimum-wage workers employed by large companies in California will see another increase in their hourly rate, as wages again rose to $14 on Jan. 1. The minimum hourly wage for those at workplaces employing 25 people or fewer also climbed to $13.

The annual rate hike continues a recent trend of minimum wage increases that were set in motion in 2017. The minimum wage will increase to $15 for all employees

by January 2023.

With the voters’ passage of Proposition 22 this past November, drivers for app-based companies including DoorDash, Lyft and Uber will remain as independent (Cont. on page 4) thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) contractors while being guaranteed a wage for hours spent driving, as well as offered limited health care benefits.

Voters this past fall also passed Proposition 17, restoring the voting rights for felons once they’ve completed their prison sentence, even if they remain on parole.

Additional protections and opportunities for inmates also went into effect, as former prisoners who participated on inmate fire crews through the California Conservation Camp Program while incarcerated could petition the court to expunge their records and waive parole.

In April, a new provision approved by voters under Proposition 19 will give homeowners 55 and older a property tax break if they lost their home in a disaster, by allowing them to transfer their previous tax assessment to a new, more expensive home.

To address the wildfires that continue to wreak havoc on California, lawmakers passed additional protections for the state’s landscape and environment.

Under Assembly Bill 3074, California homeowners in areas more prone to fires are required to maintain a “defensible space” of 100 feet from a building, clear of vegetation. The same law also requires homeowners to establish an “ember resistant zone” within five feet of a structure.

Beginning in the fall semester, freshmen within the California State University system will have to take an ethnic studies course that focuses on one of four ethnic groups before being eligible to graduate.

Such courses include Native American, African American, Asian American and Latina and Latino American studies.—Shawn Raymundo

Appeals Court Rules Prison Population Must be Reduced THE LATEST: Hundreds of Orange County inmates might be released due to the coronavirus.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California recently said that an appeals court denied an attempt by Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes to prevent the release of half of the county’s jail population.

“Sheriff Barnes must comply with the order and submit a plan to reduce the jail population. Doing so will save lives,” the ACLU tweeted on Tuesday, Dec. 29.

Sgt. Dennis Breckner, a public information officer for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, said Barnes is reviewing the agency’s legal obligation per the latest court decision.

“Sheriff Barnes’ ultimate responsibility is the safety of our community,” Breckner said.

The appeals court decision came after a group of Orange County cities had filed The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

San Juan Hills High School student Siena Chacón demonstrates what virtual learning is like on her computer.

The district’s current hybrid education model, offering both in-person and online learning, is expected to remain in place this year. Photo: Collin Breaux

an amicus brief to the Court of Appeal in California in support of Barnes’ challenge to the recent court order requiring that he release up to 50% of the county jail population in order to implement socialdistancing measures and protect medically vulnerable inmates.

“If this ruling is allowed to stand, it will potentially result in the release of individuals who have been charged with serious and violent crimes,” Barnes wrote in a Dec. 16 letter to the county’s cities, encouraging them to file amicus briefs.

In special meetings on Dec. 21, the Dana Point and San Clemente city councils voted unanimously to join the amicus brief in support of Barnes’ appeal to the order, which, he believes, could result in the release of hundreds of “dangerous offenders.” San Juan Capistrano City Manager Ben Seigel approved that city joining the amicus brief, as well.

The amicus brief argued that there is no evidence that the order will have the desired effect and that simply releasing inmates will not necessarily prevent them from contracting the coronavirus.

“Relatedly, the Respondent Court’s Order does not take into account the current status of the two approved vaccines and that inmates are likely to be able to receive the vaccines soon,” the brief stated.

“Providing vaccines is a more circumspect solution to this potential issue versus a massive release of dangerous inmates into the public.”

The brief also argued that OCSD had been proactively taking steps to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 in its jails as early as March.

The brief goes on to state that the jails began releasing some individuals 10 days early to stop the spread of COVID-19 while taking steps to reduce the prison population by creating accelerated release procedures for nonviolent offenders and

the medically vulnerable.

“Sheriff Barnes continued to act in the interests of public safety and inmate protecting by pursuing a strategy or early release and implementation of $0 bail,” the court filing continued. “The result was initially a 33% reduction in the prison population and eventually a 50% reduction based on an individualized assessment of inmate vulnerability and danger to the community.”—LB

School Board President: CUSD Continues to ‘Sail the Ship Through the Storm’ in 2021 THE LATEST: As Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 might prove to be another interesting year in education.

CUSD Board of Trustees President Judy Bullockus recently spoke with The Capistrano Dispatch about the year ahead, saying she believes 2021 will be a year in which CUSD continues to “sail the ship through the storm.”

Bullockus knows there is the question of whether there will be traditional graduation ceremonies for senior students, and she said Superintendent Kirsten Vital has her “hand on the pulse” of everything going on and is in regular contact with other superintendents.

There is the possibility the current hybrid model—which, in part, allows students to either be on campus for in-person learning or take online classes from home—will remain in place. Bullockus anticipates some families will stay with online learning until they feel safe sending kids back to the classroom. Campuses are expected to remain open for face-to-face classes.

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“We don’t know what’s in store for us,” Bullockus said of ever-changing conditions, including how expected incoming vaccines could change the educational landscape. “We’re all just waiting to see.”

The district will continue fine-tuning their learning options and virtual instruction, Bullockus said. Particular attention will continue to go to special education and lower-income students, including on programs to help kids who have fallen behind. The district is also trying to figure out how extracurricular clubs—such as for sports and arts—can safely meet, when able to do so under health guidelines.

More feedback surveys are being sent out to families to get their perspective on learning and current school operations.

The feedback helps CUSD as they make decisions going forward, Bullockus said.

“We are listening,” Bullockus said. “We do want the feedback.”

CUSD will also navigate budgetary concerns during what Bullockus expects to be a tight year, due to economic impacts of the health crisis. The state and effects of CUSD’s finances will depend on the governor’s state budget, details of which are being finalized.

Fiscal woes will also have to factor into a loss of student enrollment. Layoffs are possible, though the extent or depth of such is currently unknown, Bullockus said.

“We are looking really lean, and certainly we’re already looking at where we’re cutting, where we’ll let natural attrition happen,” Bullockus said. “We will have to staff according to our enrollment.”

CARES Act funding that the district received has already been spent on protective supplies and equipment, Bullockus said.

This year will also be the first full year on the board for new Trustees Lisa Davis and Pamela Braunstein, who respectively won last year’s elections for seats in Areas 3 and 2. Bullockus looks forward to working with the new trustees and the entire board, which she said will bring a variety of perspectives and specialty areas of focus.

“I think it’s exciting to have Lisa and Pamela, both highly respected in their communities,” Bullockus said.

CUSD has done well overall in responding to the pandemic, Bullockus said. The district works with health officials and has a dashboard tracking active cases at schools.

Bullockus asked people to be gracious, patient, and kind as the district and everyone else continue dealing with the coronavirus crisis. One positive development that emerged from the new way of life has been increased involvement from local educators and the community during the online school board meetings, Bullockus said.

“That’s one of the silver linings—I think—is we’ve got greater input,” Bullockus said.—Collin Breaux thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Alleged Assault of Special Needs Man Under Investigation

Orange County Sheriff’s Department deputies in San Juan Capistrano are seeking information from the public regarding an alleged assault of a special needs man on New Year’s Day. At approximately 8:50 a.m. on Jan. 1, deputies assigned to San Juan Capistrano Police Services were called to the area of Ali Paz and Via Positiva regarding a 60-year-old man who had been assaulted, according to spokesperson Sgt. Dennis T. Breckner.

“Upon arrival, deputies were unable to locate evidence of a crime scene,” Breckner said. “Additional deputies responded to the hospital, where they met with and interviewed the victim, who was unable to provide any details about what occurred.”

The victim was reportedly treated for facial injuries, possible broken bones, and abrasions and contusions.

Breckner said authorities are investigating the incident and that anyone with information should call OCSD at 949.770.6011.

A post on Instagram about the incident by Marissa Arreola, a niece of the victim, has been circulated and led to widespread reaction on social media. In the caption, Arreola asked for people to share the post to spread the word, and for anyone with information to contact authorities or message her.

Arreola declined to comment at length when contacted by The Capistrano Dispatch, but she did say her main concern is for the public to know they are looking for more information, and they are not concerned about money or asking for financial help.

“We are just trying to get this as much as we can to the public, in hopes that someone has information or cameras,” Arreola said.

Rep. Levin’s Veteran Legislation Officially Becomes Law Legislation allowing for more VA services for homeless veterans and strengthening the HUD-VA Supportive Housing program—among other provisions—introduced by Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) has been signed into law by President Donald Trump.

The Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 also aims The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

SATURDAY, JAN. 9 Citizens Climate Education 10:45 a.m.-noon. This nonpartisan climate action group conducts meetings on the second Saturday of every month through Zoom video conferences. To join, email larrykramerccl@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, JAN. 14

Legislation introduced by Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) to improve assistance services for veterans has been formally approved by President Donald Trump. Photo: Collin Breaux

to improve the Transition Assistance Program for servicemembers returning to civilian life and includes legislation

by Levin’s colleagues to increase VA oversight, a statement from Levin’s office said.

“I am proud to lead H.R. 7105 to provide much-needed relief for veterans during this pandemic, and strengthen their benefits in the years beyond,” Levin said. “I am deeply grateful for the partnership of Chairman Mark Takano and all of my colleagues who contributed to this legislation.”

Levin—who represents the 49th Congressional District, which includes Camp Pendleton and South Orange County—has often advocated for veterans while in office.

Government Agencies Celebrate Oso Parkway Bridge with Virtual Ceremony An online grand opening to celebrate Oso Parkway Bridge will be simulcast at 10 a.m. on Jan. 13 through The Toll Roads’ Facebook and YouTube accounts.

The six-lane bridge facilitates a connection between Los Patrones Parkway and State Route 241 for traffic. There are three lanes in each direction, dedicated bike lanes, and sidewalks.

The Transportation Corridor Agencies, County of Orange, and Caltrans will host the event. The event will feature elected officials, remarks from Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett and others, project video, and drone footage, a press release said.

$35,000 Available in Scholarships from Cox Charities Cox Charities is offering $35,000 in college scholarships to high school seniors in the Orange County and Palos Verdes areas. The Cox Scholars scholarships range from $2,500 to $5,000. Recipients must be a 2021 graduating high school senior living in Cox’s Southern California service area.

Applications are now open. Deadline to complete and submit the online application is Feb 3. More information can be found at coxcharitiesca.org.

“Now, more than ever, students in our community are working hard to achieve their educational dreams amid new learning circumstances and tough financial times due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Chanelle Hawken, vice president of government and public affairs for Cox Communications in California.

Scholarship recipients will be chosen based on their scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, volunteerism, and staying focused on their educational goals despite facing adversity in their lives.

“Before you apply, review the scholarship requirements carefully and make sure you’re eligible before spending time putting an application together,” a Cox Charities press release states. “If you don’t meet the requirements such as G.P.A. or place of residence, your application will not be considered.”

Applicants should use tax forms to declare income or give a best estimate if tax forms are unavailable. To be most effective, don’t leave any sections blank, Page 5

Design Review Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. The city’s design review committee will hold a regularly scheduled meeting. The public can watch the meeting online at the city website, sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 15 Coffee Chat 9 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs virtually on Fridays through Zoom. Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

TUESDAY, JAN. 19 City Council Meeting 5 p.m. The city council will hold a regularly scheduled meeting. The public can watch the meeting online at the city website, sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 22 The next print issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

Hawken advises.

Scholarships are funded by employee payroll donations that are matched by the company. A volunteer advisory board of Cox employees oversees the foundation and its giving programs.

In 2020, 10 Cox Scholars from Orange County and Palos Verdes were recognized for their successes in the classroom and in the community.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more.

We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

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EYE ON SJC

Mayor John Taylor Optimistic About San Juan Capistrano’s Future in 2021 Photo: Collin Breaux

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he most important thing for San Juan Capistrano in 2021 is getting businesses and citizens back to being fully healthy, after the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the town and world in 2020, Mayor John Taylor said.

“When I became mayor, I had a real positive feel for what’s coming up in the new year with the vaccine,” Taylor said.

“That’s a good thing—getting everyone vaccinated, and back to health and back to business.”

The COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be widely available for the public throughout this year, and it is already being gradually distributed to frontline health care workers, senior living residents and public officials. It is hoped people will be able to congregate face-toface again after they get vaccinated and herd immunity is achieved, though time will tell.

Taylor expects people will head back downtown to enjoy the area’s restaurants, bars, and shops once it’s safe to do so.

The downtown corridor, usually a popular area for locals and tourists, has practically been a ghost town during state health restrictions.

“People come to San Juan because it’s got a small-town feel,” Taylor said. “It’s got a town center, which a lot of places don’t. Parking is kind of a pain, but hopeThe Capistrano Dispatch January 8–21, 2021

fully there’s going to be some of that corrected. The new parking lot in Los Rios is helping out with that.”

On the economic front, Taylor favors doing whatever the city can to help local businesses, including allowing quick and easy access for outdoor dining space.

Taylor spoke about the city’s future with The Capistrano Dispatch while at the Northwest Open Space, where Putuidem Village is expected to finally open in 2021 after years of discussion and anticipation.

The cultural village paying tribute to the area’s indigenous Acjachemen people is under construction and currently fenced off.

Putuidem Village will include a presentation area with seating, a discovery trail, shade trees, and various depictions of Acjachemen culture.

“Seeing the completion of Putuidem will be wonderful,” Taylor said. “The people have been waiting so long for something to call their own. It’s really going to be an important asset to the Acjachemen people, the first people of our valley. I just think it’ll grow and improve over time, and give people who don’t know the Acjachemen people more knowledge about who they were.”

Taylor also mentioned San Juan’s long-awaited skateboard park, which will be on a portion of city-owned land near the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park and

Community Center. It is expected the city will hire a designer and settle on a design contract in 2021.

“It probably won’t be built until 2022, or it might be completed in 2022,” Taylor said. “We may get started (in 2021). That thing has been talked about and worked on forever.”

Taylor also expects housing projects to move forward, such as The Farm and the Tirador Residential Project. The Farm is located along Del Obispo Street near Armstrong Garden Centers and will be a gated, 169-lot residential subdivision featuring one- and two-story, single-family detached homes spread over 35 acres.

There will be a maximum of 180 residential units.

“It’s a beautiful project,” Taylor said. “It’s got a farm theme, farm-style houses. It’s going to have a big trail going through it, with a public park in the center of it, which will be accessible by foot for people who are hiking through to go to the sports park—to go to the skate park, let’s say.”

Lennar Homes is developing the community, which has drawn criticism from some San Juan residents over expected impacts to traffic and overdevelopment.

Tirador—which Taylor said is “probably a little more affordable”— will be a gated residential community developed

by Watt Communities on a 16.1-acre site

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at 27000 Calle Arroyo. It is down the street from the Ortega Equestrian Center, and next to a 24 Hour Fitness.

Taylor also anticipates River Street Marketplace moving forward in 2021.

River Street Marketplace will be an agrarian-themed and pedestrian-oriented commercial village bordering the Los Rios District, with the main entry off River Street, which is being planned by local developer Dan Almquist.

The city’s gateway project—which will spruce up the city-owned southwest corner of the Del Obispo Street/Ortega Highway corner to complement Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano—also is expected to be wrapped up.

Right near that intersection is the Camino Real Playhouse site, which is planned to be developed into commercial retail space by Almquist and his company, Frontier Real Estate Investments.

Almquist has worked with Playhouse staff and others on securing a new theater site in San Juan, likely to remain in the general El Camino Real corridor.

“We’ve seen (the commercial development plan) a couple of times now,” Taylor said. “The planning commission has reviewed it a few times. There are lots of really exciting things in store for us.”

Asked how the city’s finances look heading into 2021 after the economic impacts of the pandemic, Taylor said the thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Progress on The Farm residential community along Del Obispo Street is expected to continue in 2021.

Photo: Collin Breaux

situation is a struggle. City staff and officials anticipated a loss of revenue from the outbreak, and city staff were furloughed for the last two weeks of 2020.

“You go to bed and say, ‘I want to add something,’” Taylor said. “You better find out where is the money coming from. Finances are going to be tight, but the good news is, I believe, that there’s going to be a pretty quick rebound. Pent-up demand is really going to be strong.”

The city will be careful with spending, but overall is financially stable and has reserves, which they prefer not to use, Taylor said.

Taylor further pointed to San Juan’s annexation into Santa Margarita Water District, after the city council approved a utility annexation agreement with the district in January 2020. The agreement still has to be approved by the Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission.

“Santa Margarita will supply us (with water),” Taylor said. “That’s a good thing, because they have much better finances and a stronger organization. That’s a good move strategically for our city, because either that or we would have to come up with higher rates to cover infrastructure costs, and that makes people upset.”

As for public safety, San Juan has hired a private security firm to patrol the Los Rios District and Verdugo Street seven days a week because of concerns that have been raised about safety and homelessness. During the first two weeks of a contract the city signed with CitiGuard Inc. to provide surveillance and safety services—a $50,000 agreement approved by the city council during a Dec. 7 meeting—two uniformed officers patrolled the area from 4 p.m. to midnight Thursday through Sunday and one officer from Monday through Wednesday. Since Dec. 24, one officer has been patrolling the area daily, and the city has specific options in the contract to renew services based on performance and budget availThe Capistrano Dispatch January 8–21, 2021

ability.

The city will be reimbursed for a portion of the security costs by the owner of Franciscan Plaza parking structure, according to a staff report.

“He’s an armed security guard,” Taylor said. “It makes everybody feel a little more confident in parking there at night and walking through the park.”

This will also mark the first full year on the city council for new councilmember Howard Hart, who transitioned into the role from a spot on the city’s planning commission after winning the November 2020 election. Taylor and other councilmembers endorsed Hart.

“Howard’s a great guy,” Taylor said.

“I’m in Rotary Club with him. Service above self is our motto. His thing is service first. That’s what he’s all about, serving the community. It’s great to have him on council with us.”

Taylor feels confident with the current council in place for the next couple of years, given their camaraderie.

“We disagree on things sometimes, but we work it out,” Taylor said. “It’s a civil exchange, and that really makes things so much easier for the staff. We have a great staff, and we encourage them to do well, because you respect them and you know they’re doing the best they can.

They’ll do anything for us.”

Taylor encourages citizens to reach out to others, particularly local small businesses.

“If you have a choice and there’s a place in town that you can buy something, please do,” Taylor said. “The poor restaurants, they put all this money into the outdoor dining and now they can’t even do that. And I understand why.”

Taylor plans to hold trail walks on the first Saturday of every month, if citizens want to directly discuss community matters with him. The walks will start at 8 a.m. at the Patriot Flag Hill. Taylor held the walks during his previous term as mayor in 2013. CD Page 7

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The Capistrano Dispatch January 8–21, 2021

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EYE ON RMV

NEWS & HAPPENINGS AT THE RANCH

What’s Ahead in 2021: New Businesses to Open, Rienda Progress Continues

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he Rancho Mission Viejo community anticipates plenty of growth and development in 2021.

The Los Patrones Business Park is on the horizon for this year, with numerous new businesses expected to open. The 99,200 square-foot industrial commercial center is located along Airoso Street.

Incoming businesses include Evolution Swim Academy, dog training facility Sit Means Sit, and Zuri Pet Spa. Several tenants are RMV residents. The Ranch aims to create a community-centric approach with the commercial site and give Ranch residents a lively place to live, work, and play, said Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Mike Balsamo.

“There are some great tenants that have signed onto the office park and should open in the first quarter of 2021,” Balsamo said.

Industrial developer TheoPacific Corporation has entered into a joint venture partnership with The Ranch for Los Patrones Business Park, according to a news release. Nick Konopisos, Vice President at TheoPacific Corporation, said the business park is Orange County’s first new multi-tenant commercial industrial business park to be developed in more than a decade.

“The business park is also the first phase of a larger 50-acre master-planned development, known as Los Patrones Summit, which is planned to include a variety of industrial, office, retail, residential, medical, and recreational facilities,” Konopisos said.

The Ranch will also continue to make progress on the upcoming Village of Rienda, which will be ready by 2022.

Rienda will be near downtown San Juan Capistrano and a quick drive from San Clemente and Doheny State Beach. The initial phase for the Village of Rienda will have 671 homes in seven neighborhoods.

Grading work for Rienda started in early 2020, and infrastructure improvements are ongoing.

Balsamo said Rienda will add to The Ranch experience, saying the location is in The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

Top: Work will continue this year to increase home availability in Rancho Mission Viejo.

Bottom: Rancho Mission Viejo residents can continue enjoying amenities in 2021. Photos: Collin Breaux a fantastic spot.

“There’ll be incredible views associated with the space at Rancho Mission Viejo,” Balsamo said.

The history associated with the community—which began and is still maintained as a ranch—will be felt by even more people who move in once the new village is open, Balsamo said.

Ranch officials are working with homebuilders to make housing more easily attainable, Balsamo said.

Gazing further into the proverbial crystal ball, Balsamo said he is optimistic The Ranch can also bring back the annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo for 2021, particularly with vaccines expected to be widely available this year. The event was canceled in 2020. CD

Rancho Mission Viejo

TOTAL CASES

COVID-19 UPDATES as of 1/6/21

cases

deaths

TOTAL

206

<5

LAST 30 DAYS

91

N/A

LAST 30 DAYS

est. population • 10,000 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for daily local & county statistics. Source: Orange County Health Care Agency

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EDITORIAL

ART + DESIGN

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch Collin Breaux

Art Director Jasmine Smith

Senior City Editor, DP Times Lillian Boyd City Editor, SC Times Shawn Raymundo

Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex O P E R AT I O N S General Manager Alyssa Garrett

Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh

Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares

Columnist Fred Swegles

FINANCE

Special Projects Editor Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes

Finance Director Mike Reed Accounting & Finance Manager Tricia Zines CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard, Tim Trent, Chloe Anady

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by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (danapointtimes.com) and the SC Times (sanclementetimes. 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 2021. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

GUEST OPINION: Bartlett Bulletin by OC Board Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

2020: A Year for the History Books

N

ow that this year is over, many of us will look back on 2020 as a year that has so far been unlike any other in this 21st century. Personally, I will look back on 2020 as a year when two of the most frequent words I heard were “Zoom meeting”; however, on a more serious note was our country grappling with the effects of a devastating global pandemic, civil unrest and a general election unlike any we’ve ever seen.

Yet, despite the many challenges and uncertainty of the time, there was one thing that gave me hope, comfort and a renewed sense of belonging—the great American spirit! In every corner of every state, and especially here in Orange County, the American spirit was alive and well.

I was humbled to see so many residents in my district, from all walks of life, come together to do what Americans do best—extend a hand of kindness, love,

GUEST OPINION:

by Karl Reitz, Ph.D., with Citizens Climate Education

Benefits of Carbon-Free Energy

C

limate change is widely recognized as one of humanity’s greatest challenges. The solution is simple: reduce the release of carbon into the atmosphere by switching from fossil fuels to alternate energy sources. This will result in substantial changes that will not be easy.

Will the cost of these changes be worse than the consequences of climate change?

Coal mines, and coal- and gas-fired power plants, would need to be closed. Oil and natural gas drilling on land and sea would stop. The vast infrastructure of supplying

compassion and generosity, regardless of their own personal situations, to show that we are a county that cares!

Thousands of volunteers delivered food to the hungry, blankets for the homeless, and visited seniors at care facilities, albeit from a safe distance, to extend a kind wave, a friendly smile and make sure they were doing well.

Utilizing CARES Act funding, I had the opportunity to provide much-needed financial support to businesses and nonprofits within my district. My office developed the Small Business Grant Program that distributed $14.5 million in grants to more than 1,500 small businesses and nonprofits in South County.

In addition, I wholeheartedly supported the Safe Dine OC program that provided millions of dollars to help restaurants purchase items such as masks, gloves, PPE, cleaning supplies, and perform site modifications so they THE BARTLETT BULLETIN could reopen safely.

By Lisa Bartlett To help our most vulnerable through these difficult times, my office created a Nutrition Gap Program and partnered with 211 Orange County, Second Harvest Food Bank and Ruby’s Diner to provide more than 95,000 food boxes and 80,000 prepared meals to seniors, disabled individuals, veterans and others in need.

For those stricken with COVID-19, Orange County’s finest doctors, nurses,

first responders, and thousands of health care providers worked day and night to care for patients, and comforted those who lost a loved one, all at great personal risk to themselves and their families.

Throughout history, and despite our many differences, we have demonstrated repeatedly that there is more that unites us than divides us. Love of family and friends and taking care of others in a time of need is undoubtedly one of our greatest strengths and a quality that unites us all.

With the development and deployment of a vaccine, I am optimistic that it is the beginning of the end for COVID-19, and I have a renewed sense of hope that Orange County will come back healthier and stronger than before.

And so, as we close the book on 2020 and look toward 2021, we look forward to a brighter and better future for all Orange County residents. I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support and to let you know that it is an honor and a privilege to represent and serve you in the Fabulous Fifth District. I wish you and yours joy and goodwill during the Holiday Season and a healthy and prosperous New Year!

Lisa Bartlett sits on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, representing the 5th District. She was reelected in 2018.CD

energy would have to change. We would no longer be able to use natural gas in our homes and offices. Large numbers of jobs would cease to exist.

On the other hand, new jobs would be created. The expansion of the solar and wind generation industries would increase dramatically.

Plants to generate hydrogen would need to be CLIMATE built. Expansion of our ACTION electrical transmission

By Karl Reitz, Ph.D. infrastructure would need to be built. Factories to build batteries would need to be constructed, and workers would be needed to run them.

Our homes, buildings and factories would have to be made more efficient. This alone would create millions of new jobs.

However, none of this will happen without intervention by governments, whether through regulation or incentives. Most economists favor incentives as the most efficient way to effect change. Alternate energy will be used if it costs less than traditional sources. Buildings will be made

more efficient if doing so will cost less than leaving them inefficient. Incentives will come in the form of subsidies.

A carbon tax creates a market-based incentive for the economy to decrease its production and consumption of fossil fuels and make alternate fuels more competitive. Proceeds from the tax can flow back to the public, thereby creating an economic stimulus. Proceeds can also pay for necessary subsidies and support needed infrastructure changes.

Although no one can perfectly predict the overall consequences of these changes, it is clear that changing to a fossil fuel-free world would be positive, not just for the environment, but also for economic and physical health.

Karl Reitz is Ph.D. of Social Sciences and professor emeritus of Sociology and Mathematics at Chapman University. CD

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PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch 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 The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. The Capistrano Dispatch and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch 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 The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. The Capistrano Dispatch and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

Outdoor Day Trips for the Family

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

hough the coronavirus pandemic has put a stop to trips to Disneyland and to movie theaters for now, there are still options for families that want to have fun and explore Southern California.

The region offers plenty of outdoor spots to drive to and forget about your problems for a bit. These places are ideal for taking in the sun, enjoying the natural beauty of the outdoors, while maintaining social distancing in the process.

Here are some of our favorite spots you can bring the kids: Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas

Located in San Diego County, Moonlight Beach is popular with families and other beachgoers. The beach offers a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean and plenty of space for your group. Nearby parking spaces are ample.

The beach also has a playground for kids to enjoy, a grass park, a concession stand if you’re hungry for snacks, and a rental stand if you want to do some surfing but didn’t bring your own board. For people who don’t want to walk on the sand, cliff spots offer a bird’s-eye view of the majestic scene.

Moonlight Beach also has volleyball courts, so bring some friends for a game.

oceanside community, Crescent Bay Beach is a spot for anyone looking for a quiet getaway on the sand. Be forewarned: the walk down to the beach is a gradual slope.

Once you’re there, feel free to place a blanket down and soak up the relaxing view of the sky and water. Though it doesn’t have as many amenities as other spots, Crescent Beach offers a scenic view of high-end houses on the nearby cliffs. Participate in Laguna Beach’s recommended activities here, including kayaking, body boarding, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Other Laguna Beach tide pool spots—notable for the unique sights they provide when at low tide— include Diver’s Cove and Treasure Island.

SUP Rentals in Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor is an ideal spot for SUP—shorthand for stand-up paddleboarding. Take your board out into the water, catch a glimpse of sea lions if you can, and head out to the jetties for a break.

Pure Watersports is one of the spots offering paddleboards for rent. They have all the accessories you need to have fun and stay safe. Westwind Sailing is another business that can get you hooked up if you’re interested in SUP.

San Clemente Pier in San Clemente

Kids and parents love to head out to the San Clemente Pier for fishing. You can often spot them throwing out a line over the bridge, waiting for a bite, and enjoying time together in the process.

Even if fishing isn’t your thing, the San Clemente Pier is still a fun spot for a walk and the ideal spot for photo opportunities. The beach below is popular with swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers. People who want to avoid getting sand in their shoes can instead hang out on the nearby grassy knoll. Pic-

nics are popular there, as is taking in the scenery during the day or night on a bench or table.

The area is often bustling with activity, even in the colder months. Grab a slice of pizza or an ice cream cone at one of the nearby shops if you’re hungry.

Oceanside Public Library Courtyard in Oceanside

The Oceanside Public Library pavilion is a destination all its own, with elaborate architecture, spectacular water structures, and plenty of room to walk around and sit down. The nearby area also has plenty of outdoor dining options, shops, and other attractions.

As for the library itself, it currently has grab-andgo services and virtual programming. Check the latest information at the library’s page on the City of Oceanside’s website.

Descanso Park in San Juan Capistrano

Located a short walk past San Juan Capistrano City Hall, this tucked-away outdoor space offers plenty of room to walk and watch cyclists as they pass.

Visitors can also check out the creek, explore the playground equipment, and sit at one of the tables.

Descanso Park also offers a spot to watch all the activity of San Juan Capistrano happen while being a relative distance from the action.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Available access to these listed spaces and amenities may change throughout the pandemic.

Check with relevant agencies and businesses for up-todate information. CD

Crescent Bay Beach in Laguna Beach

One of the tide pool beaches in this famous

One of the tide pool beaches in Laguna Beach, Crescent Bay Beach is a spot for anyone looking for a quiet getaway on the sand. Photo: Collin Breaux The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

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SJC LIVING

GETTING OUT

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

At the Movies: ‘Mank’ Is Mostly for New Film Fans

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Meeko THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

his happy boy is Meeko, one of the sweetest dogs you’re likely to meet.

At 7 years old, Meeko is no unruly pup. He is well-mannered and potty-trained, with plenty of energy to play and exercise.

As a superior cuddler who’s good with most dogs, it’s easy to see why Meeko is a shelter favorite. Could this gentle soul be the one for you?

If you are interested in adopting Meeko, please visit petprojectfoundation.org to download an adoption application form. Completed

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

forms can be emailed to animalservices@ scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. CD

Photo: Courtesy of Netflix

BY MEGAN BIANCO

O

rson Welles’ Citizen Kane is not only reflected on in film courses, but also by Hollywood itself, as plenty of biopics on the picture’s production and backstory have been produced over the years. The latest one, David Fincher’s Mank, is more than two decades in the making and 17 years after the death of its screenwriter (Fincher’s father, Jack).

Mank, filmed stunningly in blackand-while, and with tiny Easter eggs, like artificial reel change marks in the corner of some shots, follows back-and-forth between Hollywood in the early 1930s and a ranch in Victorville, California in 1940.

Herman J. Mankiewicz, or Mank as played by Gary Oldman, is a respected and legendary screenwriter near the end of his career, as new wonder boy Welles (Tom Burke) recruits him to help pen the script for his debut film. The future classic is set to be loosely—but clearly— based on real-life newspaper mogul W.R. Hearst (Charles Dance), as

The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

well as his mistress, Marion Davies (Amanda Seyfried).

First thing to note about Mank is that it is 100% about Mankiewicz.

Welles gets only about five scenes of screen time, and unfortunately for Welles fans, they’re not the most flattering portrayal. The first half of Mank has the typical glamorization we usually get with biopics set in the old Hollywood era, and it feels a bit indulgent at times.

Whenever we get screen portrayals of the Hearst/Davies relationship, I’m always a little skeptical— as I am a longtime fan of Davies—since most just play her as the dumb blonde cliché. But to my surprise, both Seyfried and Fincher do her justice this time around, and it might be my favorite performance from Seyfried to date.

As a whole, I think Mank fits the definition of “fine.” Technologically, it looks good and the actors are great, but the movie would probably do more for someone who isn’t burned out on all things Citizen Kane, like I am. CD

Photo: Courtesy of Robert Chavez and OC Public Libraries.

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo depicts Josie Gamble on Camino Capistrano. The year is believed to be 1955.

Every issue, The Capistrano Dispatch will publish a historical photo. Online, The Capistrano Dispatch will create a gallery of the month’s photos. To submit your historical photo for consideration, provide information about the photo along with your name, date, location and a small description to cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com.

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

HELP WANTED WAREHOUSE POSITION Must have experience in shipping and receiving, fork-lift certified, requires lifting and must have valid Drivers License with a clean driving record. Full-Time, benefits, 401K. ...

Please email your resume (if available) to: dromero@ndaonline.net To fill out an application please email request to: dromero@ndaonline.net Or contact the office to speak with Gil for warehouse position.

Debe tener experiencia en el envío y bodega, forklift certificado, debe tener licencia de conducir válida con un registro de conducción limpio. Tiempo completo, beneficios, 401K. ...

Por favor envíe su currículum (si está disponible) a: dromero@ndaonline.net Para llenar una solicitud por favor envíe un correo electrónico a: dromero@ndaonline.net O póngase en contacto con la oficina para hablar con Gil para el puesto de almacén/bodega. Telefono 949-492-4399 P&C LICENSED TEAM MEMBER Get 2021 off to a great start!

Local Insurance Agent seeks a P&C Licensed Team member for a Customer Sales/Service Position. Income based on your efforts, Flexibility available, Experience Preferred, apply at www.elainelavine.net

Submit your info online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

Days of Our Lives in SJC: Part 1 EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first in a multipart series.

I

t was a dark and stormy night … no, not that story. It was the best of times, it was the worst of times … no, not that story, either. But San Juan Capistrano certainly has its stories of mysteries, murder and mayhem.

Recently, a friend sent me article written by former Orange County historian Phil Brigandi regarding the death of Pablo Pryor in 1878. Pryor died from drinking a glass of a beverage laced with poison.

The drink was given to him by his wife, who also drank from the glass after Pablo had complained it tasted funny. They both fell ill, but the doctor was able to save her, though not him. A farmhand who worked for the Pryors declared on his deathbed that he had put the poison in the drink, but he did not say why or if someone paid him to do it. At the time of Pryor’s death, Pablo was MOMENTS much respected in the IN TIME community, and as Santa

By Jan Siegel Ana Times reported, the casket was “followed to the grave by one of the largest processions San Juan had ever known.” The story of the poisoning was told by Judge Egan to the newspapers of the time. And it is the story that has been passed down. But, there is more to this story—perhaps.

In 1841, Emigdio Vejar, the local Justice of the Peace in San Juan Capistrano, was granted Rancho Boca de la Playa by the Mexican Governor. Vejar sold the property to Don Juan Avila, who in turn turned it over to his son-in-law, Pablo Pryor, and daughter Rosa Avila as a wedding gift in 1864. When California became part of the United States, landowners under Mexi-

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Solution:

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 The Capistrano Dispatch January 8-21, 2021

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

can law had to prove the rights to their claim. It was a complicated and expensive process. Property lines were not clearly marked or stated. Pablo saw an opportunity to increase the size of his property.

If he could just adjust the location of the “cienega” on the map, he could suddenly own all of San Juan Capistrano!

Pryor was able to find willing conspirators who would help him “survey” a new map, and in 1869 Max Strobel drew a new map giving Pryor, “Boca de la Playa that included all of San Juan Capistrano and the claims of over 100 persons.” To say the least, San Juan residents were upset and wanted to protest the takeover of their community. But how could they achieve that goal? According to Brigandi, two unlikely citizens of San Juan joined forces. Fr. Joseph Mut, the priest at the Mission, and Henry Charles, a Russian Jew who was a shopkeeper and owned land that was in question.

Jan Siegel was a 33-year resident of San Juan Capistrano and now resides in the neighboring town of Rancho Mission Viejo. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 13 years, has been a volunteer guide for the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library’s architectural walking tour for 26 years and is currently the museum curator for the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society. She was named Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Dispatch 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 Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. The Capistrano Dispatch and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

Staying the Course State provides no update on return-toplay start date

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he earliest possible start date for youth and high school sports competition remains Jan. 25, as the state’s scheduled date to reevaluate its most recent guidance on sports passed without update on Monday, Jan. 4.

On Dec. 14, the California Department of Public Health delivered its first guidance on youth sports since August, which had guidelines tied to the state’s four-tiered, color-coded coronavirus monitoring system.

Sports are assigned to each of the state’s four risk tiers based on indoor or outdoor competition and low, moderate or high contact in those sports.

The date Jan. 25 was established as the possible return-to-play date, provided that a county or region was no longer under the state’s regional stay-at-home order. As of Thursday, Jan. 7, four of California’s five regions remained under stay-at-home orders, including Southern California.

The next date of evaluation is Jan. 19, when the CIF-Southern Section will update the status of its fall sports championships. It is expected CIF-SS will cancel its fall sports playoffs to try and provide those sports more time to schedule a regular season. The CIF State office has already canceled its fall sports regional and state championships.

Under the shuffled 2020-21 CIF sports calendar, the fall sports season includes football, girls volleyball, boys and girls water polo and cross country. Boys volleyball had been shifted from the spring to the fall, but to avoid the possibility of canceling its season in back-to-back years, boys volleyball was moved back to the spring.

If the stay-at-home order is lifted in Southern California by Jan. 25, cross country will likely be the only fall sport that could return to play, as it is the only fall sport listed in the purple

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With the state’s weekly tier updates, CIF provides updates on what sports can return to competition in which counties. Graphic: CIFSouthern Section

“widespread” risk tier by the state’s December guidance.

The first scheduled spring sports start date is Feb. 22 for girls tennis, followed by boys tennis on March 1. Tennis is allowed in the purple tier. Other spring sports in the purple tier are swimming, golf, and track and field, which are scheduled to start on March 13, March 20 and March 20, respectively.

The red “substantial” risk tier includes only spring sports: baseball, softball, girls lacrosse and outdoor cheerleading. Baseball and softball are scheduled to start on March 19 and girls lacrosse on March 12. Competitive sports cheer, normally contested indoors, is scheduled to open on March 27.

The rest of the fall sports—football, water polo and girls volleyball—are slotted into the orange “moderate” risk tier. Orange County and nearly all of the Southern Section have not entered the orange tier since the tier system was introduced in August. The orange tier also includes soccer, boys lacrosse and boys volleyball.

Basketball, wrestling and indoor cheerleading are in the yellow “minimal” risk tier. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

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