March 27, 2020

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SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

MARCH 27-APRIL 9, 2020 • VOLUME 18, ISSUE 6

A New World

Coronavirus Alters Daily Life E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 4

San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association President Jim Taylor hands out food during a free food distribution event. Photo: Collin Breaux

Local Cat Available for Adoption

EYE ON SJC/PAGE 5

Guest Opinion: Letter from the Mayor SOAPBOX/PAGE 25

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All Local Golf Courses Close, Except for One SPORTS/PAGE 30

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

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

health care professionals are waiting on a vaccine, El-Hasan said.

“Just because we were able to sequence the genes doesn’t mean we know everything about it,” El-Hasan said.

“Unfortunately, even if the research goes well, a vaccine won’t be available for widespread use for 12-18 months.”—CB

Five things San Juan should know this week EDITOR’S NOTE: This information could change as the coronavirus pandemic continues.

Visit thecapistranodispatch.com for longer versions of these stories.

City Declares Local Emergency During Coronavirus Pandemic THE LATEST: The San Juan Capistrano City Council unanimously approved a resolution ratifying the city manager’s proclamation of a local emergency during a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 17.

The declaration facilitates the city’s abilities to request financial aid and reimbursement from the State Office of Emergency Services and FEMA for coronavirus response efforts and costs.

FEMA announced in a press release that federal emergency aid has been made available for the state of California to supplement efforts in affected areas.

Local residents were encouraged to watch the March 17 meeting live on the city website instead of attending in person. The video of the meeting shows rows of chairs mostly empty except for a few people in the audience, and live streaming lagged for some viewers due to increased online traffic.

“To help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, we would like to encourage the public to view council meetings until further notice live on the city’s website,” Mayor Troy Bourne said.

The city’s website is sanjuancapistrano.org.

City Manager Ben Siegel declared a local emergency on Monday, March 16.

WHAT’S NEXT: The public is encouraged to check sanjuancapistrano.org for updates and resource information.—Collin Breaux

Local Doctor Explains Science Behind Coronavirus THE LATEST: Dr. Afif El-Hasan, who works in the pediatrics department with Southern California Kaiser Permanente, discussed the scientific aspects of coronavirus during a webinar hosted by Capistrano Unified School District on Friday, March 20.

The Capistrano Dispatch March 27-April 9, 2020

SONGS Representatives Explain Radiation Monitoring

Verdugo Street in San Juan Capistrano is blocked off and empty on Friday, March 20, the first full day of the stay-at-home order in California.

Photo: Taylor Garrett

“This is changing by the hour,” ElHasan said of information related to COVID-19. “Any of this can change.”

Coronavirus is a “very complicated” virus and part of a group of commonly seen viruses, El-Hasan said.

“Our issue is this new one is one that our immune system has never seen before,” El-Hasan said. “That’s where the problem lies, and that’s why we’re having so many problems with it; it’s because none of us have an immunity in our bodies and our bodies have never been exposed to it before.”

Proteins on the virus bond to cells and upper- and lower-respiratory tracts—in ElHasan’s words, the proteins are “designed to get into our bodies and latch on.”

Transmission is person-to-person and spreads by respiratory droplets, and symptoms appear within two to 14 days. Most cases manifest themselves in four to five days.

According to a timeline presented during the webinar, the World Health Organization (WHO) was first alerted to pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China, on Dec. 31.

The first death reported by the media was on Jan. 10; the first case in the U.S. was on Jan. 21, and the WHO declared a public health emergency of international concern on Jan. 31.

Looking at age demographics, children for the most part will be relatively unaffected, according to El-Hasan. The fatality rate for people ages 80 and older is 18%.

“Pregnant women are not at increased risk for a worse disease,” El-Hasan said.

“This is unlike influenza, which tends to hit pregnant women harder.”

The recovery time for mild infections is less than two weeks, and for major infections three to six weeks. People with cardiovascular diseases are at the highest fatality risk, followed by people with diabetes and people with chronic respiratory diseases.

A second wave of the coronavirus could occur in the fall, though by that time it shouldn’t spread as quickly, since a majority of people will be immune, El-Hasan said. Medications trials are going on, and

THE LATEST: Officials with Southern California Edison, which operates the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS), discussed the radiation monitoring devices and techniques onsite during a media tour of the facility on Tuesday, March 10.

SONGS is being decommissioned—a process that began in 2013—and plans are underway to dismantle the power plant. Three radiation monitors, and an additional monitor (the control) providing a baseline reading installed by Edison, collect radiation data that is sent directly to three off-site agencies: the California Department of Public Health’s Radiologic Health Branch, California State Parks and the City of San Juan Capistrano, according to a news release.

SONGS publishes the data through independent agencies to demonstrate transparency. The radiation monitors at SONGS are able to read very low levels of radiation, and officials are confident it will demonstrate there are no hazards to members of the general public or employees who work on site.

“They read out a microrem, which is a millionth of a rem,” engineering manager Jerry Stephenson said of the radiation testing devices during the tour. “The dosage right here is very, very low.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Edison is working to lobby Congress and the federal government to develop a place to store the spent nuclear fuel, and it is monitoring potential sites where it could be transported.

The fuel will be safely stored until a spot opens for it.

“Our location here is very safe,” Stephenson said.

The noticeable dome structures—visible from Interstate 5 when driving to and from San Diego—will come down at the very end of the project, with a time frame of 2025 or 2026.—CB and Shawn Raymundo

School Closures Extended Through May 1 THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified

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School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees approved extending school closures through May 1 during a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25.

Distance learning—another term for online education—will continue for students through then. Schools were previously expected to reopen April 13.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused the closure of school sites, but education is continuing for students.

Distance learning began on Tuesday, March 24. Teachers are using online platforms such as Google Classroom.

Chromebooks are being distributed to students for distance learning. Students are able to log in and complete school work online, according to discussions at the March 25 meeting.

CUSD is now projecting May 4 as a school return date, though officials said they will see if they need to extend closure beyond that date.

Schools meals are also available at various CUSD sites. Marblehead Elementary School in San Clemente, Bergeson Elementary School in Laguna Niguel and Castille Elementary School in Mission Viejo were added on Thursday, March 26.—CB

Statewide Stay-atHome Order Issued THE LATEST: A statewide stay-at-home order was issued on Thursday, March 19, by Gov. Gavin Newsom as the coronavirus pandemic accelerated.

The order is in place until further notice.

“We are confident the people of California will abide by it,” Newsom said during a press conference.

Essential services will remain open such as gas stations, pharmacies, grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, take-out and delivery restaurants, banks and laundromats/laundry services, according to the state government’s website.

Grocery stores are implementing lines and letting customers in one at a time in some cases, and some restaurants are open only for take-out or delivery.

“Essential state and local government functions will also remain open, including law enforcement and offices that provide government programs and services,” the website said.

Similar stay-at-home orders have been issued in a number of other states.

Social distancing—in which people are encouraged to not get together in large groups and maintain at least six feet distance apart—has been encouraged worldwide by government and health officials.—CB thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Community Reacts to Coronavirus Pandemic

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

These past few weeks were supposed to have been fun ones.

There would have been San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association’s Fiesta Grande at Swallow’s Inn, St. Joseph’s Day at Mission San Juan Capistrano and other notable events leading up to the 62nd annual Swallows Day Parade on Saturday, March 21.

The parade was instead postponed, an omen of things to come. One by one, places closed as concerns increased about the coronavirus pandemic—Swallow’s Inn, the Mission, Trevor’s at the Tracks. By the time March 21 came, downtown—usually bustling with tourists and residents—resembled a scene from a zombie apocalypse film, with very few people on the streets. Activity crawled to a standstill, except for the occasional construction worker or passing car.

The mood shifted in South Orange County and the world. People became bored, restless, agitated, looking for direction. They could no longer see movies at The Regency Theatres on Verdugo Street. The planned St. Patrick’s Day grand opening of Paddy’s Station, a new Irish pub replacing The Vintage Steakhouse, has been delayed. The I-5 freeway, usually jammed with traffic, even saw a noticeable decrease in activity.

People are helping each other, praying and continuing on, though.

The Fiesta Association—along with the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce and other volunteers—were still out in the community the weekend of March 21, this time giving away free meals during a drivethrough food distribution event at Marbella Plaza. The food giveaway will continue this weekend, March 28-29.

“Volunteering is in our genetic makeup, so we’re into this,” Fiesta Association President Jim Taylor said.

A new group named Crisis Kitchen Coalition, banding together with small restaurant

The Capistrano Dispatch March 27-April 9, 2020

Top: San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association President Jim Taylor hands out free food during a food distribution event on Saturday, March 21, at Marbella Plaza. Photo: Collin Breaux. Bottom: The parking lot behind Swallow’s Inn and next to the Mission Promenade in San Juan Capistrano was empty on Friday, March 20, the first day of the stay-at-home order in California. Photo: Taylor Garrett

owners, formed to help feed people for the March 21-22 food distribution. The group is the brainchild of Sweet Home Capistrano Bakery CEO James Parris, who wants to turn it into a nonprofit to continue helping people.

Crisis Kitchen Coalition received monetary donations during the distribution event.

“When Parris made the call and said he had this idea, we said, ‘We’re in,’ ” Taylor said.

San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce board member Ricardo Beas, owner of Ricardo’s Place in San Juan Capistrano—one of the restaurants that had to close—said other groups are welcome to join in and help.

“This is to help the needy; seniors, kids,” Beas said. “We’re trying to do the right thing right now.”

Neighbors in the Sun Ranch neighborhood of San Juan have started a daily happy hour in which people stand in their home driveways at a safe distance and play music or show positive community support in other ways. Neighbors and friends Jackie Price, Carol McIntyre and Shelly Kurtz came up with the idea after hearing about similar ideas elsewhere.

“It helps people to know they’re not alone,” Price said. “People are seeing and meeting people who were their neighbors for years but they never interacted with.”

Cedar Creek Inn owner Sally Cochran spoke with The Capistrano Dispatch before Gov. Gavin

Newsom’s statewide stay-at-home order was issued, saying their restaurant had been cleaning constantly and noticed a drop in business.

Cochran reflected on how life has drastically been altered, calling it “really tough.”

“It’s a confusing time,” Cochran said. “I’m looking out the window, and there’s no cars.”

Cochran and others have been watching television for news updates, which seem to happen by the minute as the crisis evolves.

Before Trevor’s closed, owner Trevor Baird also spoke with The Capistrano Dispatch and said the situation was crazy and one he was taking day by day. Trevor’s is not operationally equipped to provide take-out food service.

“You’ve got the most happening bar down,” Baird said of Swallow’s Inn being closed.

City Manager Ben Siegel wrote in an email on March 16 that the city is planning for the potential of significant financial impacts resulting from reduced sales tax and transient occupancy tax (hotel) revenue.

“Our executive team is actively developing economic contingency plans to ensure that the City will continue to provide critical municipal services to residents and businesses,” Siegel said.

A March 23 update from the city said officials are continuing to follow the guidance of public health professionals and are maintaining close communication with the county's Health

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Care Agency and emergency managers.

Dennie Hahn, owner of The Cottage Gallery, a small business in the Los Rios District, also wrote in a March 16 email that they had decided to close during the pandemic.

“We are very concerned for the effect this will have on our employees and our surrounding small businesses,” Hahn said. “It is already hard to be a small business owner. We have worked very hard to build a loyal customer base, and we hope that they will return to us when this is all over. In the meantime, we will offer shopping via our websites or social media and continue to try to find ways of staying connected to our customers.”

Mission Hospital in South Orange County also faces a new world under the coronavirus pandemic.

The facility says it’s prepared to deal with the coronavirus, but it realizes the unique challenges the pandemic poses. Mission Hospital said in a statement that while it routinely trains for emergencies, “the scope of this outbreak is an enormous challenge for health care.”

Mission Hospital declined to comment on specific information regarding coronavirus testing or positive tests for patients, as patient privacy is a priority. Information will be reported to the appropriate health agency if patients test positive.

“We are urging the public to heed Gov. Gavin Newsom’s stay-at-home directive, as well as common-sense hygiene practices,” the Mission Hospital statement said. “We have set up temporary facilities outside our emergency departments to screen patients away from the general hospital population. We are urging people with mild symptoms to stay home and self-quarantine for two weeks.”

Mission Hospital also recommends clients use its Providence Express Care Virtual system for an online visit with a nurse practitioner who can screen, assess, prescribe, chart and advise next steps.

“We are working with our experts and other stakeholders to ensure supplies of personal protection equipment and as well as equipment necessary for patient care,” the Mission Hospital statement said. “We will have great challenges in providing the level of care that will be needed in the coming weeks, and perhaps months, if the community does not cooperate with required and recommended safety measures.”

Orange County residents can sign up to receive coronavirus-related, text message updates by texting OCCOVID19 to 888777. CD

thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

passing through the Los Rios District have fed and seen George for years.

“He’ll have a forever home,” Morris said about her hopes of George being adopted.

COMPILED BY STAFF

Drive to Ride Fundraiser Tops $210,000 The recent Shea Center Drive to Ride fundraiser produced a record of more than $210,000 in donations, a press release said.

“It was the Center’s month-long event inviting its families, friends, volunteers, and staff members to post their Shea Center stories in words and pictures on the Center’s website or Facebook,” the press release said. “The participants also invited their acquaintances to support The Shea Center’s financial aid fund, horse care, and priority programs.”

Riding days offered participants games and the opportunity to buy “kisses” from a favorite horse. After 10 years, the event has raised more than $1 million for financial aid and Shea Center programs.

New San Juan Hills Principal Named Manoj Mahindrakar is the new principal at San Juan Hills High School. The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees appointed Mahindrakar at a March 18 meeting, effective July 1, CUSD Insider reported.

He has served as principal at Don Juan

Lake Forest Man Arrested on Suspicion of Child Molestation

George, an orange tabby cat, is available for adoption. Photo: Courtesy of Barbie Harris

Avila Middle School and was also assistant principal at San Clemente High and Aliso Niguel High.

Cat Available for Adoption George, a former stray cat known for wandering around the Los Rios District, is available for adoption.

George is an orange tabby cat esti-

mated to be about 8 years old that had eye surgery after sustaining injuries. Call the Ark of San Juan at 949.388.0034 if you’re interested in adopting George.

“He’s engaging,” Ark of San Juan President and Cat Coordinator Robin Morris said of George’s personality. “He’s social.”

George will be healing with a caretaker for a few weeks. George has had all of his required shots and is neutered. People

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

Michael Medeiros, 34, has been accused of committing multiple lewd acts on an underage girl beginning in 2018.

Medeiros was reportedly terminated from Archdiocese Orange County in February 2020 after the church was notified about the allegations.

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

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

EYE ON RMV

NEWS & HAPPENINGS AT THE RANCH

The Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park is a popular spot for equestrian activities. The City of San Juan Capistrano is looking at improvement and restoration projects for the park. Photo: File

City of San Juan Capistrano Planning Improvements for Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

The San Juan Capistrano City Council approved a resolution related to proposed drainage improvements at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park during a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 17.

The resolution adopted a mitigated negative declaration and mitigation monitoring program, which essentially addressed potential environmental effects of the proposed improvements and restoration measures.

“The proposed improvements include the removal of an existing Arizona Crossing, streambank restoration within San Juan Creek, and the installation of a stormwater capture and treatment system,” a meeting agenda report said. “Prior to construction of the proposed improvements at the Riding Park, the City must secure state and federal permits, since a portion of the improvements are within a water body that is within state and federal jurisdiction.”

The San Juan Capistrano Planning The Capistrano Dispatch March 27-April 9, 2020

Commission will review project plans prior to final plan approvals. The cityowned park is at 30753 Avenida La Pata.

Equestrian activities and other events are popular at the park.

“The draft mitigated negative declaration was released for its 30-day public review in September 2019,” the agenda report said. “At that time, the MND was also provided to state and federal resource agencies, along with the respective permit applications, so that the lengthy permit-review process could begin.”

The city is undertaking the project to restore the natural conditions of San Juan Creek, protect the creek from potential incidental discharge of stormwater pollutants, and convey annual flood events at the park, according to the mitigated negative declaration study. Additional goals include restoring wetland habitat functions and surface water features.

The park originally was part of Rancho Mission Viejo’s Ranch Plan, but it was subsequently purchased by the City of

San Juan Capistrano as part of open space acquisition in January 2010. The Arizona Crossing has been periodically destroyed by severe winter storm events, and while the crossing is not currently functional, structural materials and culverts remain in San Juan Creek, the mitigated negative declaration study said.

As for stormwater discharge, the study said there is now a potential for equestrian waste, equestrian-related products( such as bedding material, feed, and other materials such as trash) to be carried via stormwater runoff and indirectly discharged into San Juan Creek following the development and operation of the park.

“Temporary construction and staging areas associated with these proposed Project elements would be located on-site within developed or previously disturbed areas of the Riding Park, immediately north of the stables and south of Ortega Highway,” the report said. “Construction activities would occur intermittently (i.e., during the dry season) over an estimated

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3-year period from July 1, 2020 through July 1, 2023. Construction activities associated with the Arizona Crossing removal and streambank restoration would occur over a 4-month period and would be completed by no later than 18 months following the acquisition of all required permits.”

Construction associated with the stormwater treatment system would be completed in approximately 24 months, following completion of the Arizona Crossing removal and streambank restoration activities. Construction would generally be scheduled between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays, and would only occur on Saturdays if necessary to shorten the project timespan and avoid going into the “wet” season. Construction would not occur on Sundays or federal holidays.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The event calendar for Rancho Mission Viejo is on hold until further notice due to the coronavirus pandemic. thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Collin Breaux, 949.388.7700, x109 cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh, 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Debra Wells, 949.322.4765 debra@wellsadsolutions.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

Real Estate Sales > Debra Wells (SJC)

EDITORIAL City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Collin Breaux

ART/DESIGN

Senior City Editor, DP Times > Lillian Boyd City Editor, SC Times > Shawn Raymundo Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor > Randy Youngman ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (SC) (DP)

You Can Count on Us

ery one of us can manage through the crisis.

To aid in that effort, we’ve created some special features on our websites and newsletter platforms to help share information:

BY NORB GARRETT, OWNER AND PUBLISHER OF PICKET FENCE MEDIA

1. | CORONAVIRUS TAB ON OUR WEBSITES All three of our websites now feature a “Coronavirus” tab in the navigation bar. We will be aggregating all of the information there regarding closures, official directives and announcements, links to key CDC information, etc.

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

Challenging times such as these underscore the critical need for our community to come together and support each other, and it’s our responsibility to help keep the community educated and armed with the facts so that each and ev-

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

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

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

Together, we can do this. CD

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

Visit thecapistranodispatch.com to sign up.

Norb Garrett Owner and Publisher of Picket Fence Media

Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed General Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Tim Trent EDITOR EMERITUS Jonathan Volzke

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 18, Issue 6. The Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch) is published twice monthly

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 2019. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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The Capistrano Dispatch March 27-April 9, 2020

GUEST OPINION: An Editorial by the California News Publishers Association

Newspapers’ Role in the Time of Coronavirus Over the past two months, concern over the spreading COVID-19 virus has increasingly gripped our nation. In this public health crisis, people need access to accurate and authoritative information so that they can make decisions about their health and safety.

Hearsay, half-truths and supposition don’t cut it when our lives may be at stake.

That’s why this newspaper—and thousands of others in our state—are on the front lines of the pandemic. We are there to inquire, authenticate and report facts so you know what’s going on and what to do.

At The Capistrano Dispatch we take that responsibility very seriously.

Our team of reporters is working around the clock to provide our readers with the latest information on how and where the virus is spreading and what health experts are recommending to protect the public.

To ensure that information is accurate, a team of four editors reviews and factchecks each element of every story. Further behind the scenes, the small team of dedicated employees in production, subscriber

and delivery services makes sure that our digital and print editions reach our readers with the information they need in these turbulent times.

We live in an era when information is fingertip-accessible, but so is misinformation. Newspapers provide the relevant details on the COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on South Orange County hospitals and schools. Every day, we’re here focused on delivering critical information to you, our readers, about the things that matter most to you: business, the stock market, jobs, quality of life, elected officials, events, local schools, entertainment, crime, transportation, weather and more.

We strive for complete accuracy—and when we err, we hold ourselves accountable and strive to do better in the future.

In the face of this great responsibility, newspapers are operating under increasing financial pressure. Over the past 15 years, more than one in five papers in the United States has closed down, and the number of journalists has been cut in half, according to the University of North Caro-

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lina’s School of Media and Journalism.

So if you appreciate the hard work of our journalists during this crisis, please let them know by sending them an email.

They are on the front lines, sharing the critical work being done by first responders, health care professionals, public health experts and many others.

In times of challenges, we’re reminded that we’re all in this together, sharing acts of simple kindness and community cohesion: neighbors helping neighbors, young families making sure seniors have plenty of food, and businesses temporarily closing their doors but paying employees during the shutdown. Although it may be a frightening time, the worst trials can bring out the best in Americans.

We’re proud to tell these stories of our times.

The Sacramento-based California News Publishers Association works to protect the interests of newspapers throughout the state and promotes the general welfare of the California newspaper and news media industry. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

Welcome to the

Summer Camp & Activities Guide

Our annual Summer Camp & Activities Guide is here, and while the end of the school year may be nearing, now is the time to plan for your child to make the most of summer. No matter the hobby or interest, there is a vast variety of local camps for youngsters to enjoy, such as sailing, acting, exploration, science, sports, surfing and much more. Our guide features a mix of half-day, full-day and some overnight activities in Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and surrounding cities. Utilize this information to plan for a fulfilling, challenging and fun summer your family won’t forget. While families are asked to self-isolate and refrain from congregating in groups, the community remains hopeful that by the time summer arrives, quarantine will be a figment of the past.

JUNIOR GUARDS EARN SENSE OF OCEAN SAFETY

W

By Shawn Raymundo

ith summer quickly approaching and hordes of the community’s youth planning to hit the beaches in South Orange County during the break, one of the best things parents do to instill a sense of ocean safety in their children is enrolling them in junior lifeguard programs, says Greg Hulsizer of the San Clemente Lifeguard and Junior Guard Foundation.

“The ocean is a hazardous place . . . one of the purposes of the junior guards is to get their kids comfortable, not only for their safety but to help their friends, too,” Hulsizer said, adding that it’s also “a good way to spend the summer.”

In San Clemente, registration for the city’s 2020 Junior Lifeguard program opens on Wednesday, April 22, with the first three-week session slated to begin June 8, the second on June 29 and third session on July 20.

The San Clemente program is for kids and teens between the ages of 9 and 17. The cost for enrollment per session is $235 for residents and $260 for non-residents.

And in Dana Point, the California Junior Lifeguard Program at Salt Creek Beach also shares the same run dates as the San Clemente program. The cost per session is $545 and is geared toward those aged 8-17.

Rod Mellot, the interim Marine Safety Chief for the city of San Clemente, explains that the junior guard program is focused on having the children recognize potential ocean hazards in a changing aquatic environment. Participants can get educated on topics such as ocean safety, first aid and lifeguard operations.

The “emphasis is on safety, respect and physical fitness,” he says. Those enrolled will “participate in activities like ocean swims, pier jumps, body boarding and beach runs.”

“The program has existed for over 50 years, and they’re taught by professional lifeguards,” Mellot said. “It’s a fun program. Generation after generation have gone through the program. It’s a great program for us to educate the kids who are coming down to the beach, so they know how to use the beach in a safe manner.”

All new prospective students for the San Clemente program must first pass a swim test in order to become eligible to register, the city notes. The swim tests are held at the San Clemente Aquatics Center. A passing test is four laps, or 100 yards, in less than two San Clemente interim Marine Safety minutes. The test fee is $5.

Chief Rod Mellot offers a few tips for The next test currently schedstaying safe at the beach this summer: uled is Saturday, April 4. Other test u Learn to swim dates include April 11, April 18, April u Swim near a lifeguard 19 and May 17. u Swim with a buddy For those who can’t afford to register for the San Clemente program, u Check in with the lifeguards the Junior Guard Foundation offers u Use sunscreen and drink water scholarships, as well as works to u Obey posted signs and flags provide equipment and supplies in u Keep the beach and water clean support of the program that the city u Learn what do in rip currents can’t otherwise afford in its budget.

More information about the Juu And enter the water feet-first nior Guard Foundation can be found at the group’s website: scljgfoundation.com. The application for a scholarship can be found at the city’s webpage on the Junior Lifeguard Program.

Ocean Safety Tips

Editor’s note: This information is subject to change due to coronavirus concerns.

5

Ways to Connect Your Child with Nature

By Zach Cavanagh

With so many people stuck inside these days, it may be more important now than ever to get outside and connect with the brilliant nature that Southern California and specifically South Orange County can offer. This may be even more vital for a generation of kids already glued to their portable devices. Here are a handful of local spots that are family- and kid-friendly to entertain and inform children through nature.

The Ecology Center This nonprofit organization in San Juan Capistrano has created a vibrant and lush garden in an attempt to inspire people to interact with our ecosystems and change their relationship with each other. The Ecology Center has created programs to highlight those environmental perspectives. There are workshops that show off different conservation and growing techniques. Be sure to check out the center’s strawberry festival, which has been postponed until May. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, theecologycenter.org

Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center High up on the Dana Point Headlands, the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center informs visitors on the history of our section of the Pacific coastline. Inside the facility, guests will find rotating exhibits that further explore the natural history and resources of the area, as well as panels explaining geological information, plants and animals. It’s the perfect place to learn about the nature you find on the surrounding trails before a beautiful day hike.

34588 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, danapoint.org

San Clemente Beach Trail Anyone who has grown up in our area, or resides here now, develops some sort of relationship with the ocean. One of the best ways to take advantage of that and soak it all in is the beach trail in San Clemente. The beach trail is 2.3 miles from North Beach all the way down to Calafia Beach.

Visitors can access the trail from many spots and can get to popular points such as the pier and T-Street. A portion of the trail is closed from the El Portal Steps to the Mariposa access, but pedestrians can use an appropriate detour through local streets to get to each point.

San Clemente, san-clemente.org

Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park Nature Center The Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park is the largest park in the Orange County Parks system.

Nestled in among its 8,000 acres is the interpretive center. The center is open on weekends, and offers plenty for families to take in. There are taxidermy animals on display, with interactive displays so kids can get up close to local animals with much less danger. There’s usually a rangerled program to take in on the weekends. Make the most of it and set up a camping trip or hike.

33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210, ocparks.com

ZOOMARS Petting Zoo ZOOMARS may be closed through the end of March, with hopes to reopen in April, but it’s never a bad idea to keep the popular spot in mind when normalcy returns. Kids can get up close with plenty of farm animals to have a memorable experience with a fluffy or feathered friend.

ZOOMARS has farm staples such as bunnies, chickens, cows, goats, pigs, horses and sheep, but they also showcase guinea pigs, llamas and emus.

31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.831.6550, zoomars.com

CAPISTRANO ACTING ACADEMY SUMMER THEATRE CAMP AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE

Fun While the Sun’s Out

SUMMER EVENT GUIDE CAPISTRANO ACTING ACADEMY SUMMER THEATRE CAMP

For all of the kids out there who love theatre and want to perform, the Capistrano Acting Academy at the Camino Real Playhouse in San Juan Capistrano can help them develop skills and confidence. The Summer Theatre Camp in June and July is geared for ages 6-16, with camp hours from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Different weeks will focus on different performances, including for Inspector Gadget and The Brady Bunch.

Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, capistranoactingacademy.org

WORLD OCEAN DAY AT PRETEND CITY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Pretend City Children’s Museum is temporarily closed, as of press time. Looking down the road, though, a World Ocean Day is scheduled for June 8. Once this pandemic settles down, enjoy the beginning of their Sizzling Summer Series that has enlightening education and fun activities. Kids can learn about how marine pollution affects wildlife.

Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900, pretendcity.org

LIL’ CHEF SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP

Children can put together meals and enjoy the fruits of their labor—perhaps literally—with this summer cooking camp. “Our camps are organized into three age groups, so all chefs team up with their peers,” the Lil’ Chef School website said. “Ages are: Tiny Chefs 4-6, Lil’ Chefs 7-9 and Teen Chefs

10-and-older.” Kids will get an apron and taste everything they prepare. They’re also welcome to take home uneaten tastings.

Check the Lil’ Chef School website for various camp dates.

Lil’ Chef School, 15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine, 949.679.8390, lilchefschool.com

MERMAID ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP

Strap on your fins and enjoy time on the beach during this unique summer camp.

There will be crafts, makeovers and other activities. This event is scheduled for June 22.

Once Upon An Island, 118 Agate Ave., Newport Beach, 949.791.2162, onceuponanisland.net

CAMP IZZA

From June to July, kids can enjoy a range of activities at Camp Izza, including movies, balloon shows, potato sack races and more.

“We strive to provide an environment in which all children can thrive and be comfortable expressing themselves and meet new friends along the way,” the website said.

New Horizon School, One Truman Street, Irvine, 949.422.8123, campizza.com

CAMP INVENTION: ELEVATE

Curious and scientifically minded kids can enjoy this STEM-focused camp, in which they’ll get to explore innovation, problemsolving and teamwork. Programs will be at schools throughout Orange County and the country.

Various locations throughout Orange County, 800.968.4332, invent.org

Editor’s note: This information is subject to change with coronavirus concerns.

STAYING ACTIVE

YOUR GUIDE TO MARTIAL ARTS STUDIOS

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ummertime can be a chance to enjoy relaxing picnics outdoors or play video games, but it’s also an opportunity for kids to learn martial arts.

Martial arts allows kids to become more confident, meet new friends and pick up new skills. Whether they’re grappling on the ground in jiu-jitsu class or up on their feet practicing karate moves, gyms in South Orange County are ready to help kids develop into capable and respectful individuals.

Here are some gyms around town:

ZEN DOJOS MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY

As stated on their website, Zen Dojos not only instructs kids on how to punch and kick, they also instill discipline, focus and listening skills. Children can learn how to compete or just practice for fun. The karate training will enable kids to deal with bullies or deal with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

31888 Del Obispo Street, Suite C6, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.6574, zendojos.com

GUILLOBEL BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU ACADEMY

Put on your gi and get rolling in this downtown San Clemente gym. Kids can pair up to learn and practice techniques, all under the watchful eye of their parents. Founder and owner Paulo Guillobel will make sure your children receive the best training possible, whether it’s defensive maneuvers or learning to be part of a group.

621 N El Camino Real, Suite A, San Clemente, 949.366.2107, guillobelbjj.com

GRACIE BARRA DANA POINT

Folks living in Dana Point can also get jiu-jitsu training. Gracie Barra emphasizes the mental benefits of mat grappling, in addition to the physical. Instructors supervise each student to make sure everyone taps into their fullest

potential. “Our Gracie Barra Kids Program is designed to teach children self-discipline, as well as providing a unique way to express themselves,” their website said.

34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Suite 106, Dana Point, 949.388.8886, gbdanapoint.com

THE DRAGON INSTITUTE

Classes for beginners and various skill levels.

Learn the art of Wing Chun, which incorporates lightning-fast strikes. Environments, though, will be safe and encouraging. The school is located on PCH, so enjoy a scenic drive while you drop the kids off for class.

34241 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 105, Dana Point, 949.542.8470, ocwingchun.com

NATIONAL TAEKWONDO ACADEMY

This South Orange County martial arts studio is family-oriented and touts the cardio workouts you’ll get from their workouts.

Their programs include Little Ninjas for ages 4-6, Junior TKD for ages 7-12 and cardio kickboxing. The Little Ninjas Program is a “detailed curriculum that focuses on improving preschool-age children’s basic motor and listening skills,” according to their website.

802 Ave. Talega, Suite 103, San Clemente, 949.361.2050, nationaltaekwondoacademy.com

GROUNDWORK JIU-JITSU

Located in the Lantern District of Dana Point, Groundwork Jiu-Jitsu offers classes for all skill levels. Founders and surfers Don Abadie and John Yerkovich look to bring a local feel to their boutique studio, a Checkmat affiliate. Groundwork teaches children bully defense and confidence building and to pay attention and be respectful.

24470 Del Prado Ave, Dana Point, 949.254.3465, groundworkjiujitsu.com

Editor’s note: This information is subject to change due to coronavirus concerns.

LOCAL CAMPS

ACTING ACADEMY Summer Performing Arts Camps serving ages 4 - 14.

Campers are guided through a full theater immersion experience via four daily classes—music, acting, dance and fusion. The culminating event will be a Friday performance on one of our three main stage theaters!

Children can participate for one week, the entire summer or anywhere in between. It’s time to watch your star shine at Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente; Z Playhouse, 24196 Alicia Pkwy,., Suite A., Mission Viejo; Lyceum Village, 14281 Chambers Rd., Tustin; 949.427.0072, actingacademyforkids.com.

CAPISTRANO ACTING ACADEMY Excitement and adventure await your kids with loads of Summer Fun! Camp begins June 15th and encompasses six separate weeks, each with a different theme.

We accept ages 6 to 16. Each play is an original script with tons of laughter—for both the kids and the audience.

Along with enjoying theatre games, these amazing kids learn their lines, blocking, timing and are costumed and made up to perform by Friday at 2 p.m. We offer sibling and return student discounts too! capistranoactingacademy.org.

& Resources

ENDLESS SUMMER SURF CAMP Learn to surf at San Clemente’s premier surf camp, where dreams have come true since 1992. Whether you have never surfed or if you want to take your surfing to the next level, we have surf instruction and coaching for you. We have day and overnight surf camps as well as private and group lessons for beginning, intermediate and advanced surfers. We also offer surf and turf camps at Talega Golf Club with PGA Teacher of the Year Randy Chang.

949.498.7862. endlesssummersurfcamp.com.

DANA WEST YOUTH SAILING Build a skill that can last a lifetime and promote a love for the ocean! Dana West Youth Sailing hosts 3 summer sailing camps in Dana Point Harbor: June 15th – June 26th, June 29th – July 10th, July 13th – July 24th. Camp runs Monday through Friday for children ages 7-18. Cost is $450 per session, with a 5% early bird discount for registration before April 30th. For more information and registration, visit dwyscamp.com/registration. The Dana West Yacht Club Junior Sailing Program is administered

by Dana West Youth Sailing, Inc., a 501c3 Non-Profit corporation.

KGB BEACH CAMPS Come down to the Dana Point Harbor for a week of fun!

There are activities from stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking and tide pool walks to games, crafts and much more. Join us for an adventure on a 60-foot catamaran while we look for whales and explore the open ocean.

The little ones will join us for a different adventure every day; crab hunting, treasure hunts, water games and sand castles will fill their days at camp. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. 949.842.5211. kgbeachcamps.com.

Local Camps & Resources (Continued)

KIDCREATE STUDIO DANA POINT Get creative at the newest summer camps in town! Our energized art camps are designed to inspire and educate your young artist in an environment that encourages giggles and grins. Beginning June 1, camps are offered Tuesdays through Thursdays, with fun weekly themes sure to excite and engage children ages 3-6, 4-9 and 7-12. Create your family’s ideal schedule with our flexible registration: 3-day camps or daily rates, half- or full-day options. 34255 Pacfic Coast Highway, Suite 113, Dana Point, 949.545.7091, kidcreatestudio.com/dana-point

OCEAN INSTITUTE Dive into Summer Fun at Ocean Institute Camps June 22- August 14 located in Dana Point. ACA Accredited Camps focus on ocean education and experiences for campers of all ages! Give your child a new perspective as they explore, discover and thrive. Before and aftercare are available to provide flexibility and accommodate busy schedules. Registration starts on March 16 at oceaninstitute.org. Summer Camp Questions? Contact Guest Services at oi@oceaninstitute.org or call 949.492.2274.

TSTREET VOLLEYBALL CLUB

ST. MARGARET’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL Be inspired, explore interests and have fun this summer at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School. Summer camps at St. Margaret’s are open to all students preschool through grade 8. Weekly summer camps include outdoor and beach adventures, athletics, performing arts, academic exploration in science, engineering, computer science and humanities. Led by St. Margaret’s renowned teachers and coaches on our beautiful 22-acre campus in a nurturing and small-group environment. Some outdoor camps take place at local beaches and off-campus locations. 31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.0108, smes.org/ summer

Tstreet is ranked #1 in Southern California, and home of the 2015, 2017, and 2019 USAV Junior National Champions. Named after an iconic, family beach in San Clemente, Tstreet clinics range from position specific, age specific, general skills, sand-camps, and more throughout the summer. Training is open to boys and girls ages 8 to 18, and programs cater to introductory through advanced level athletes. Last summer, the improvement of day campers was phenomenal, leading to roster positions on school and club teams. Tstreet is owned and managed by two-time Olympic Gold Medalist (coach and player) Troy Tanner. Troy brings his philosophy of “achieving one’s highest potential” to the club. Proven mechanics, repetitions, feedback and fun are emphasized in Tstreet’s state-of-the-art gymnasium, located at the “El Toro Y” in Irvine. Sign up online at TstreetVolleyball.com.

THE JOHNSON ACADEMY Did you know that one out of every five children struggles

in reading? Children who receive intervention before third grade have a 90 percent chance of increasing their reading skills to meet their intellectual abilities. Due to the high demands of literacy, reading is more important than ever. At the Johnson Academy, located in San Juan Capistrano, they offer evidence-based reading and math intervention programs to improve phonemic awareness, comprehension, vocabulary knowledge and cognitive abilities. If your child struggles with keeping up in school, please contact the academy to find out more information. 27127 Calle Arroyo Ste. 1920, San Juan Capistrano.

949.487.5251, scheduling@ocsllcinc.com.

WESTWIND SAILING Welcome aboard! Westwind has been providing educational boating programs in our community since 1987. Our programs include sailing camps, SUP camps, and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. We are the 2019 ‘Best Camp for Kids’ Golden Lantern, People’s Choice winner in Dana Point and our school is a sanctioned US Sailing, Community Sailing Center. Our community is important to us – especially during these uncertain times. We’re waiving our cancellation / change policy and allowing payment plans for summer. And we have boating scholarships available too. We’re in this boat together!

Find us at the OC Sailing & Events Center in DP Harbor.

949.492.3035.

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OCEAN INSTITUTE

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SETTING SAIL FOR SUMMER

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YOUTH SAILING

With several sailing organizations in the harbor, there are plenty of options for your child to explore in terms of learning to sail. The Dana Point Harbor Youth Foundation is a nonprofit sailing organization that strives to improve the lives of young people by bringing that energy, enthusiasm and education to the next generation of sailors.

The Foundation is one of South Orange County’s driving forces in youth sailing education and supports Dana Point Yacht Club Youth Sailing, Dana West Yacht Club Youth Sailing, Mariners936 Sea Scouts, South OC high school sailing programs, Westwind Sailing and Ocean Institute. “By participating in sailing activities, children and teens are exposed to a unique form of physical fitness,” says John Berry, the Foundation’s president. “Also, because sailing is a team activity, participants gain important communication, social and leadership skills and increased self-esteem—life skills that they will carry into adulthood.” The Foundation has a fleet of more than 25 boats that includes RS Teras, Lasers, CFJ’s and Naples Sabots.

They are provided free for use at its summer camp, open sailing in the offseason, Wednesday evening harbor racing in the summer and local regattas throughout the year. “Dana Point and South Orange County have a variety of exceptional youth sailing programs,” said Berry. “By acting as a unifying force for other harbor organizations, DPHYF ensures that the next generation of sailors has the resources and equipment they need.” Dana Point Harbor Youth Foundation, PO BOX 3926, Dana Point. 949.229.0790. dphyf.org.

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MARINERS936

While there isn’t a summer program, Mariners is all about adventure for young men and women ages 14-18 during the spring and fall season. Members learn nautical skills and how to sail a variety of boats, from 14-foot Capris to 38-foot, fully equipped yachts, in addition to the 118-foot-tall ship Spirit of Dana Point. There’s plenty to choose from with day sails, weekend trips, an annual week-long summer cruise and exciting weekend competition events with other Seascout groups. Ann Webb handles youth recruitment for Mariners936 and has children who have experienced the program.

“It’s more than just sailing; it’s also leadership opportunities, trips, volunteering, camping trips to learn life skills, but we go on sailing trips,” Webb said. “Instead of camping, we take our camp with us and sleep on the boats and cook in the galley.” The instructional part of the program is divided into a fall and spring session comprised of 12 weeks each, whereas the recreational sailing and racing run all year long. Instruction involves 12 weeks per session of Wednesday evening classes for 2 ½ hours each. There are eight separate classes ranging from beginning to advanced boat handling. On-the-water training takes place on weekend days during fall and spring seasons.

The culmination of the training is the Quartermaster Cruise, where Mariners936 skippers one of the large boats to Catalina and back with their own hand-picked crew. The Mariners Junior program is for kids 12-13 years old. Informational meetings are held in February and September each year. To view more information on the program or see the program calendar, visit mariners936.com. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point.

OCEAN INSTITUTE

Dive into summer fun at Ocean Institute Camps for its June 22- August 14 program. ACA-accredited camps focus on ocean education and experiences for campers of all ages. Your children will gain a new perspective as they explore, discover and thrive. “Our programs provide real-world learning experiences for thousands of students,” said Dr. Wendy Marshall, President of Education and Operations at Ocean Institute. “These experiences do not simply change a day in a child’s life, but rather change their perceptions of what life has to offer and the many possibilities that are open to them.” Before and aftercare are available to provide flexibility and accommodate busy schedules. Register today at oceaninstitute.org. u

For the child who is drawn to the ocean, whether it be for sailing or ocean science, the Dana Point Harbor offers a variety of summer programs to enrich your family’s life. The Dana Point Harbor provides an ideal, safe environment for getting comfortable out in the water, learning a new water sport, exploring marine life or developing skills as a young citizen scientist.

WESTWIND SAILING

Westwind Sailing has been providing educational programs since 1987.

Programs include sailing camps, SUP camps, and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. Its school is a sanctioned US Sailing, Community Sailing Center. Westwind is waiving its cancellation/change policy and allowing for payment plans for summer.

There are also boating scholarships available. Find Westwind Sailing at the OC Sailing & Events Center in DP Harbor. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point.

949.492.3035. westwindsailing.com.

DANA WEST YACHT CLUB

Each year, Dana West Yacht Club sponsors a Youth Summer Sailing Camp in three 2-week sessions for $450 per session. Session 1 is held June 15-June 26, Session 2 is held June 29-July 10, and Session 3 is held July 13-July 24.

The Dana West Yacht Club summer camp is open to children ages 8-18 (club members or not) and is held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Lunch is provided on Fridays.

For more information, contact Mark Williams, Junior Sailing President, by emailing juniors@dwyc.org or calling 949.661.1185, ext. 5. 24601 Dana Drive, Dana Point. dwyc.org. u

DANA POINT YACHT CLUB

The Dana Point Yacht Club Sea Stars program is an introduction to the world of sailing .This course aims to equip the newest sailors with the skills and knowledge to operate a Tera with partner. Throughout this course, students will obtain the ability to identify wind direction, points of sail and right-ofway on the water. Sailors will also demonstrate the ability to tack and job, sail upwind and downwind and steer with a tiller extension. Weekly sessions run from June 10-August 15, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., for $400.

Dana Point Yacht Club also has courses for introductions to single handing, double handing, intermediate and advanced sailing. 24399 Dana Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2900. dpyc.org

SOAPBOX GUEST OPINION: Grow, Eat, Make at The Ecology Center, by Lindsey Bro

Resilience Boxes Available at The Ecology Center During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Resilience Boxes sold by The Ecology Center are providing organic produce. Photo: Courtesy of The Ecology Center

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n these unprecedented times, The Ecology Center is so proud to be your local farm, and we are extremely grateful for the opportunity to continue to provide our community with the safest and most direct access to local, organic, and nutritious produce we can.

Currently, our Farm Stand remains open, and our Farm Share boxes are still going out as scheduled. We have suspended all community events and educational programming, giving us more energy to focus all our efforts on farming and providing food to the community.

Starting on March 20, we expanded the Farm Share program to offer a Farm Share Resilience Box that will be available for curbside pick-up and home delivery for those in need.

The Resilience Box is a one-size farm share box that comes with 12 items of organic produce for $38. Available for pick-up or delivery (within a 20-mile radius of the farm), Resilience Boxes include items such as lettuce, greens, potatoes, various vegetables, onions, lemon, citrus and garlic, and families can purchase up to three boxes. If you are picking up your box, The Capistrano Dispatch March 27-April 9, 2020

they’ll be available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, or on Tuesdays at our Encinitas farm. In addition to produce, you can add other items to your box, including bread, olive oil, beans, rice, honey, lentils, butter, tortillas, cheese, and more.

We will donate 10% of all boxes to community members in need—including the elderly, immunocompromised, low-income, nurses, and health care workers who cannot get produce due to their schedules. Each box will also include bread from our partners at Rye Goods. We will be working with the GROW, EAT, San Juan Capistrano MAKE Senior Services and

By Lindsey Bro local neighborhoods to distribute any boxes that are donated during this time. If you’d like to sign up for or donate a Resilience Box, please visit: shop. theecologycenter.org or call The Ecology Center at 949.443.4223.

We’ll also have 60 loaves of Rye Goods

bread available every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, with the hope of increasing to daily as needed.

We currently have a queue system at the farm stand and, when you arrive, you’ll be met by a staff member who will provide you with gloves for shopping. To limit the number of people shopping at once, so more vulnerable members of our community can feel confident while shopping, we will have you wait in your car until we notify you when you can enter the farm stand to shop.

The Ecology Center is located at 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, and you can visit their website at theecologycenter.org for more details. They are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.

Lindsey Bro is a Southern California-based copywriter and content creator for purposedriven brands. As a contributing writer and friend of The Ecology Center, her most recent work with them has been The Community Table cookbook. CD

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

Page 25

GUEST OPINION: A Letter from Mayor Troy Bourne

Our Community Can Persevere Dear Neighbors, Yesterday, I helped a downtown restaurant manager load perishable food items into a truck to be distributed to San Juan Capistrano families who lost their employment this week.

Volunteers in surgical gloves took time off their own jobs to package and drop the food on doorsteps of appreciative recipients. This experience, and reports of similar efforts around our small town, highlight two important realities.

First, the current public health crisis and the associated economic disruption of efforts to battle the virus’s spread are having real and significant impacts on our community’s families and businesses. These challenges are likely to persist for some period of time after the spread of the illness has slowed. It will require a focused effort to revitalize our local economy and homes.

Secondly, the adversity associated with our current challenges presents an opportunity for our community to come together and care for each other. Neighbors are stepping up, setting aside differences and lifting where they can. This outpouring of service and unity during challenges has been and will continue to be the legacy of the San Juan Capistrano community.

Thank you for all that you are doing. Each of us can play a part in slowing GUEST OPINION the spread of this virus

By SJC Mayor, and in helping and healTroy Bourne ing those most affected.

Though we must limit physical contact, we can still lift each other up. Whether by calling to visit and check in on an elderly neighbor, supporting a local business by ordering take-out, offering a prayer for our health care workers, or simply staying home to reduce the spread of illness to those most at risk, no gesture of kindness is too small.

During this time of uncertainty, please know that your City government is working to provide important services to the community and protect the health and safety of our residents. Like you, we are eager for life to return to normal, and we are coordinating with our local and state partners to identify resources that will allow for a vibrant social and economic recovery. We are thinking of you and your families every day. And we are confident that, looking back on these events, we will remember, along with the struggles, the care shown by our neighbors. We all will have added to the lasting generosity of spirit woven into the fabric of San Juan Capistrano.

Troy Bourne is the mayor of San Juan Capistrano. CD 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

thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

THE LIST

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

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

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

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

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

COMPILED BY STAFF

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

REFLECTION For those of us who tend to keep packed schedules, backto-back appointments or live extroverted lifestyles, social distancing can be an opportunity to slow down and reexamine our regimen. Those paused moments of self-reflection can be particularly difficult while caring for loved ones or carrying through day-to-day life. Updates from health officials are critical during this pandemic, but for the sake of your sanity, take a moment to log off social media, tune out the news and clear your mind. There are a plethora of guided meditation and yoga instruction videos on YouTube. Perhaps, The Capistrano Dispatch March 27-April 9, 2020

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SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love after 50, by Tom Blake

Six Amazing Humanitarian Women

S

aturday, March 21, was a beautiful day.

After being quarantined inside their homes for most of the week, people had a nice opportunity to get some sunshine, exercise and fresh air, while maintaining a six-foot distance from others. At that time, it was permissible to do so.

That morning, my stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) buddy, Russell Kerr, and I decided to paddle from Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor to Doheny Beach and back. Near the harbor mouth, we saw what we thought was a two-foot log bobbing in the water.

As many paddleboarders and kayakers do, we pick up trash and debris that floats in our waters. Normally, one of us would slide the log onto our paddleboard and bring it ashore.

Upon closer inspection, we saw that it was a baby sea lion. And it was struggling to get breaths and stay afloat.

We hoped it could make ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 it to a rock on the nearby

By Tom Blake jetty. Plus, we saw three adult sea lions about 100 yards away, thinking one might be its mother.

We looked for help; there were no boats around. We felt there was nothing we could do.

After our paddle, back at Baby Beach, we saw a Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) rescue truck pull onto the grass,

parking next to the rest rooms.

Two PMMC women, Krysta and Wendy, scurried to the shoreline carrying a blanket.

The sea lion was lying on the paddleboard of Candice Appleby of San Clemente.

Quickly, it was whisked away to the PMMC truck.

From a distance, I asked Candice what had happened on the water.

Candice explained that she is a SUP coach and had been out in the ocean instructing a client. She said, “When we came back inside the harbor mouth, I saw three women kneeling on their paddleboards. One was my friend Val Ells, Dana Point, (who happens to volunteer at PMMC), and another was Lisa Hazelton, San Clemente. I don’t know who the third woman was.

“Val yelled to me that there was a sick seal pup there, and they were trying to get it on a board. I paddled over and was able to get it on the back of my board. Val had her cellphone with her, so she called ahead to the PMMC, who indicated a rescue truck was on its way.

“When I got back to Baby Beach, the rescue workers were distressed that it was such ‘a baby.’ They rushed off with her.”

I was impressed with the humanitarian act of those six women: four on the water, plus the two from the PMMC. Another woman commented, “Candice is a world-champion paddleboarder.”

“Is that true?” I asked Candice. She humbly admitted she has won The Dana Point Battle of the Paddle/Pacific Paddle Games nine times. I asked for her website address: candiceappleby.com/herstory.

I was amazed to discover she is probably the greatest woman paddleboarder in the world.

In the midst of the COVID-19 dark news, where hundreds of thousands of people across the country and around the world are risking their lives to try to save the sick, these six women were a bright light with their heartwarming act of kindness, in trying to save this precious little sea lion.

And, as we are learning during COVID-19,

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

M

The Capistrano Dispatch March 27-April 9, 2020

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo depicts a barn in

San Juan Capistrano, reportedly in 1976.

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.

lots of people can’t be saved. Candice forwarded to me this news from Wendy and Kathy at the PMMC later that afternoon: “I am very sorry to report, but sadly she passed. Our team worked on her for three hours straight. She was very emaciated and hypothermic. Her lungs sounded terrible.

But we wanted to let you know she died in warm loving arms.”

Sad news, indeed, but on the positive side, six incredible Orange County women had tried to save this little sea lion.

The PMMC is a charity. They exist on donations. I’m going to help them: pacificmmc.org.

We’ll get through COVID-19—because of people like these six women. But, we won’t be paddleboarding for awhile; the beaches may be closed.

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. 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

Sudoku

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Beau eet Beau, a handsome, 5-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog Mix. Beau would be a great dog for an experienced dog owner who is looking for a walking buddy, as well as a big lap dog! Beau wants to be the center of attention, so he would be best as the only dog in the home.

If you would like to know more about Beau, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617. Those interested in Beau can submit an application by emailing animalservices@san-clemente.org. The application can be downloaded on petprojectfoundation.org. CD

Photo: Courtesy of OC Archives and OC Public Libraries

BY MYLES MELLOR

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Solution:

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

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Holes at One

Shorecliffs Golf Club is the only golf course still open in the area

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

While a large number of businesses and nearly every sports league and facility has closed due to precautions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, golf courses fought through the first week of major closures.

However, as more businesses paused their operations voluntarily or by government order, nearly all of the golf courses in the tri-city San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano area followed suit, except one.

As of Thursday, March 26, and per the club’s Facebook post on March 20, Shorecliffs Golf Club in San Clemente remained open.

“As golf is a natural social distancing sport,” the post said, “Shorecliffs and many other courses are staying open to support the mental health of the community. We are monitoring the recommendations of local and state officials

and will remain open unless we are advised otherwise.”

The post continued by encouraging booking a tee time as a safe and fun way to take in fresh air while exercising social distancing.

That was the argument initially for many golf courses and even those on the PGA Tour. Golf is an activity that practically invented social distancing, with small groups staying far apart from each other. However, like nearly every professional sports league around the globe, even the PGA Tour suspended its operations, and many local clubs have followed suit.

As the only city-run course in the tri-cities, the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course was the first to close in the area as the City of San Clemente closed public facilities on March 16. On March 23, the city extended the closures indefinitely.

Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point was next, as the entire Monarch Beach resort paused operations on the afternoon of March 19. The golf course officially announced its closure on March 20, the first day of California’s stay-at-home order made by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

“As your and our team members’ safety is our number one priority,” general manager Eric Lohman said in a Monarch Beach Golf Links Facebook post, “Monarch Beach Golf Links will temporarily close its golf course, practice area, Golf & Lifestyle retail store and Monarch Café to comply with the recommendations of our government leaders and health officials to do our civic duty in helping reduce the spread of COVID-19. We appreciate your patronage, loyalty and understanding and apologize for any inconvenience.”

San Juan Hills Golf Club in San Juan Capistrano followed suit on March 20.

“Our thoughts and best wishes go out to all those affected by the coronavirus,” the club said on its website. “Our property will be closed to the public until we receive the appropriate permissions to resume our regular operations. We look forward to that time and will continue to keep our website and communication distribution up to date over the coming days and weeks.”

Marbella Country Club in San Juan Capistrano also closed due to orders of precaution related to COVID-19. The decision was made by American Golf Corporation, which closed all of its

courses around the country, including four in Orange County.

In San Clemente, Talega Golf Club, a public course, and Bella Collina San Clemente, a private club, both closed their courses on Sunday, March 22.

Talega made the announcement with a short Facebook post that said the course was closed, advised its patrons to be safe and that they hoped “to see you all teeing it up soon.”

Bella Collina made the announcement with a letter from general manager Jay Pesicka on its website.

“Throughout this recent COVID-19 crisis and government imposed restrictions, we have taken steps to ensure your health and safety, as well as the health and safety of our staff,” Pesicka said. “However, due to recent government restrictions imposed on our business and our members, we must now close Bella Collina. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time and look forward to serving you again soon.”

Other courses in the local area, including Ben Brown’s Golf Course in Laguna Beach, Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo and Tijeras Creek Golf Club in Rancho Santa Margarita, were also closed. CD

While every other course in the local area has closed due to precautions related to the coronavirus pandemic, Shorecliffs Golf Club in San Clemente remained open. In a Facebook post, the club said that “golf is a natural social distancing sport.” Photo: Zach Cavanagh The Capistrano Dispatch March 27-April 9, 2020

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