December 11, 2020

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SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

DECEMBER 11-24, 2020 • VOLUME 18, ISSUE 23

Onward & Upward

Brian Maryott Wraps Up City Council Post, Eyes Another Potential Run for Congress E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 3

thecapistranodispatch.com

San Juan Capistrano Councilmember Brian Maryott did not run for reelection, because he instead unsuccessfully campaigned for Congress. Photo: File

Council Approves Property Sale Agreement with Ganahl Lumber EYE ON SJC/PAGE 3

Taylor Becomes New Mayor EYE ON SJC/PAGE 5

Assemblymember Brough Faces Rape Allegation EYE ON SJC/PAGE 4

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11–24, 2020

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EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week

Outgoing Councilmember Brian Maryott said there is a “near certainty” he’ll run for Congress again. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

Maryott Finishes Term as SJC Councilmember THE LATEST: The Dec. 7 meeting of the San Juan Capistrano City Council was the last one Brian Maryott attended as a councilmember.

Maryott’s four-year term came to an end on Monday. Ahead of the meeting, Maryott told The Capistrano Dispatch he left with peace of mind, knowing he served as he had intended.

“It was my goal to be a quiet and effective leader, to inspire collaboration and compromise amongst my colleagues, and to help take the overall temperature down from where it stood a few years ago,” Maryott said. “The highly caustic environment was impeding real teamwork, hurting results, and hurting our city.”

Maryott further said he is proud city officials wound down some very difficult litigation, brought the first luxury hotel accommodations to town, exited the water and sewer business, and moved forward with some public parks while working hard to preserve others.

“We managed to keep our budget in good shape despite some tough headwinds, and we have jump-started a critical trend of developing revenue that is increasingly diversified,” Maryott said.

During remarks made at the Dec. 7 meeting, Maryott thanked other councilmembers and city staff for their “exceptional” work for the town. Councilmember Troy Bourne said the current tone of civility within city government began with Maryott’s time in office.

Maryott served as mayor in 2019, and during his time on the dais this year, he voted against a traffic study for a proposed The Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

new In-N-Out Burger location on Del Obispo Street after community outcry against the potential drive-thru restaurant.

Maryott has also advocated for being mindful of the city’s fiscal conditions throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maryott did not run for reelection since he instead made an unsuccessful bid for Congress against 49th District incumbent Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA). Maryott campaigned on smaller government, businessbased approaches to environmental issues, and opposing government-run health care.

Maryott received more votes in Orange County, though Levin ultimately won after picking up more votes in San Diego County, which makes up a larger portion of the 49th District.

Bourne recognized Maryott’s efforts in public office.

“I want to thank Brian and his family for being courageous enough to serve here in the city, and (to) stick your neck out even further on a national level and try to correct some things that need correcting, by sticking your own head out there, by being brave and subjecting yourself to the criticism and hard work that’s required to do that,” Bourne said. “We’re so proud that San Juan Capistrano is the city that keeps putting people out into the public space to serve on a national level.”

WHAT’S NEXT: As for what’s on the horizon, Maryott said he will do some nonprofit work in the financial planning arena and enjoy spending more time with his kids and immersing himself in their activities.

There is also the “near certainty” of another run for Congress, Maryott said.

New Councilmember Howard Hart is replacing Maryott on the District 5 seat, after winning the election against rival candidate John Alpay. Maryott endorsed Hart in the council election, saying he is eased knowing Hart will fill the seat.

“Howard has had a long and distinguished career, and he has also spent some time on one of our most critical city commissions,” Maryott said. “Collectively, it makes for a great background to bring to council. I know that Howard has a deep respect for our community’s yearning for open space and our incredibly unique equestrian heritage.”—Collin Breaux

City Swears In Hart as New Councilmember THE LATEST: After a contentious election in which the question was initially raised if he would even be able to take office, Howard Hart officially became the new District 5 councilmember during the city council’s Dec. 7 meeting.

Hart won the District 5 election against rival candidate John Alpay, who had alleged Hart violated the Hatch Act in run-

San Juan Capistrano

TOTAL CASES

COVID-19 UPDATES as of 12/9/20

cases

deaths

TOTAL

1,015

17

LAST 30 DAYS

338

2

LAST 30 DAYS

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

ning for the seat and subsequently called for Hart to step down. Hart eventually returned to the campaign trail after Alpay lost endorsements from the Libertarian Party that were a key part of the allegation, and Hart subsequently picked up a majority of votes from residents.

Hart directly mentioned Alpay as he took his seat on the dais.

“I would like to acknowledge my opponent, Mr. John Alpay, and I wish John the best in his future endeavors,” Hart said.

Hart thanked his team and family for their support. Hart comes to the council directly from a position on the city’s planning commission, to which he was appointed in 2019.

Hart was endorsed by other councilmembers, whom he thanked, including outgoing Councilmember Brian Maryott.

Hart is replacing Maryott—who mounted an unsuccessful bid for Congress in the 49th District—on the District 5 seat.

“Every time I ever reached out and asked for support in anything I got—the advice that I got from you, the support I got from you, was tremendous,” Hart said. “Brian, I know with you running for congressional office at the same time I was running here, I asked more of you than I had hoped to have to do. Sometimes without me even asking, you were there offering support. That says an awful lot about your character.”

Hart further said he hoped to live up to Maryott’s legacy. During the election, Hart campaigned on defending San Juan’s equestrian heritage, regulating residential recovery homes, stopping human trafficking in illicit massage parlors, and building the town’s skatepark, among other platforms.

Hart is a retired Navy captain who grew up in Dana Point and has been active with the Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano.

As a member of the planning commission, Hart processed plans for preserving the city’s Northwest Open Space and renovating Verdugo Street.

Along with Hart officially becoming a new Councilmember, District 1 incumbent

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Sergio Farias was also sworn in again during the Dec. 7 meeting after running unopposed. Farias thanked his family for their support, said there is a lot of work that remains to be done, and recognized fellow councilmembers on their efforts for the town.

“I’m thankful to the city of San Juan Capistrano and its residents for their support in allowing me another four years,” Farias said. “It was something that I thought about much more than, I think, the first time around. Having gone through public service for the last four years, I knew what I was getting into this time.”—CB

Ganahl Lumber Set to Acquire Lower Rosan Property THE LATEST: Capping a project years in the making, the San Juan Capistrano City Council approved a purchase and sale agreement between the city and Ganahl Lumber Company for property along Stonehill Drive expected to house a hardware store and lumber yard, drivethru restaurants, and a long-term vehicle storage area for auto dealers.

The agreement was approved at the council’s Dec. 7 meeting. The council previously approved a resolution declaring the city’s intent to sell the vacant 17-acre, city-owned Lower Rosan Ranch property in June, and city officials have been negotiating final details with other agencies involved in the transaction—including the County of Orange and school districts—since then. The property is west of Camino Capistrano.

“This is a major milestone in this effort,” City Manager Ben Siegel said.

Escrow is estimated to close within 30 to 60 days. Senior Management Analyst Matisse Reischl has worked with Assistant (Cont. on page 4) thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) City Manager Charlie View on the project and gave a staff presentation on the project to the council.

“The project and property sale are envisioned to create jobs within the community, alleviate conditions of economic and physical blight, and create an increase in sales and property-tax revenue—all of which benefit the city of San Juan Capistrano,” Reischl said.

When fully operational, the hardware store and lumber yard is projected to generate approximately $450,000 to $500,000 in annual sales-tax revenue, “placing it among the top sales-tax generating businesses in San Juan Capistrano,” Reischl said.

The agreement will also remove maintenance costs for the city. The sale price for the property is $5 million. The city’s share of the net sale proceeds will be approximately $450,000.

“This was an incredibly complex project, as you can tell in the presentation,” Siegel said. “The site itself is complex—numerous physical constraints. Navigating redevelopment law and working with about 10 other agencies is complex. The negotiations are complex.”

Siegel thanked View, Reischl, City Attorney Jeff Ballinger, and the Ganahl family for their efforts during the steps forward.

“I know I got quite a bit of residents asking me throughout the years, ‘Didn’t we approve this years ago?’ ” Councilmember Sergio Farias said. “This is how complicated these things are.”

Mayor Pro Tem Derek Reeve said officials have been trying to figure out how to utilize the property, and diversifying the town’s economy is critical.

“To have such a great business with a great family—talk about a perfect fit for San Juan Capistrano,” Reeve said. “This is such an accomplishment.”.—CB

Council Considers Land Use Clarifications for Town Center Districts THE LATEST: Following confusion over development projects and subsequent litigation against the city, the San Juan Capistrano City Council is considering wide-ranging code and land use revisions that would, in part, do away with the city’s Historic Town Center Master Plan and Historic Town Center Form Based Code.

A public hearing was held during the Dec. 7 council meeting to address perceived inconsistencies between the Master Plan and Form Based Code, and the city’s General Plan.

Inconsistencies and ambiguities identified by city staff include the Master Plan encouraging residential use while the General Plan does not allow such use in the identified area; the Form Based Code not being clear on the maximum height of The Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

three-story hotel buildings; and the Master Plan and Form Based Code differing on whether a setback policy is required for new development adjacent to certain historic buildings.

“The City has faced significant legal challenges to its implementation of the HTCMP and HTCFBC since the time the documents were adopted in 2012,” a city staff report said. “The inconsistencies and ambiguities outlined above have made implementation difficult, and the initial vision for the plan has waned.”

Lawsuits over projects approved under the Master Plan drew contradictory court opinions over whether the city had incorporated the Master Plan into its General Plan. The Master Plan dates back to 1995, was updated in 2012, and partly covers 150 acres of downtown.

Councilmember Sergio Farias said the city wants to reduce adverse litigation, which has come about from seemingly inconsistent documents.

“You want to avoid litigation, you clean up these land use documents,” Farias said.

“I think it was part of our mandate from our constituents—one of the things that was asked was we don’t want so many lawsuits. It was one of the surprising things in becoming a public official, was the amount of our public tax dollars that was spent on these litigations. (It) was enormous.”

Councilmembers had no objections to revoking the Master Plan and Form Based Code. Mayor John Taylor recused himself from the discussion since his Los Rios home is within 500 feet of the discussed area’s border. Councilmembers also affirmed the prohibition of residential land use in the Town Center and Town Center Edge districts.

Part of the proposed amendments to the land use code include clarifying the maximum building height at 35 feet for twostory buildings and 45 feet for three-story hotels. Mayor Pro Tem Derek Reeve and Farias said there could be flexibility for proposed development through applicant amendments.

Councilmember Troy Bourne said he wants to be careful in placing “super-hard and fast rules” around the downtown district, because projects could be sensibly proposed at certain spaces in the district but not in other parts.

Reeve spoke against the identified setback policy, said downtown areas generally don’t have setbacks, and questioned the notion that setbacks protect historic property.

Councilmembers variously did not approve some proposed code amendments, including establishing setbacks between historically listed structures and new development, and prohibiting drive-thru facilities in the Town Center Edge district.

WHAT’S NEXT: City staff will return with a second reading during the Jan. 19 council meeting, incorporating a revised ordinance based on councilmember comments.—CB

Woman Accuses Assemblymember Brough of Rape in 2015 THE LATEST: Outgoing Assemblymember Bill Brough, who formerly served on the Dana Point City Council, now faces an accusation of rape as he concludes his third term in the State Legislature.

Patricia Todd, who previously worked as a legislative aide for Sen. John Moorlach (R-Costa Mesa), has recently filed a criminal complaint against Brough for allegedly raping her after a 2015 dinner in Sacramento.

In May of this year, Brough was removed from his positions on California Assembly committees after an investigation was conducted by the state Legislature’s Workplace Conduct Unit, concluding that Brough would provide “political help” in exchange for sexual favors.

According to documents released by Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon’s office, the unit found that Brough had insinuated he would provide political help if an accuser went back to his apartment with him. In a separate complaint, the unit found that Brough had placed his hand on the small of an accuser’s back and told the accuser he did not live far away from the bar they were in.

“Come on, you know you need to party,” Brough is alleged to have said.

The conclusion of the investigation came after Brough previously had faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and misuse of campaign finances. Brough has since expressed his disagreement with how the investigation was conducted and told The Capistrano Dispatch that he was considering legal action.

In June of 2019, Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, also a former Dana Point Councilmember, came forward to the Republican Party of Orange County regarding an incident in 2011 in which Brough allegedly forcibly grabbed her. Brough asserts that Bartlett’s claims, as well as others’ allegations of sexual misconduct, are political retaliation for his proposed Assembly Bill 1273, which would have vastly restricted the TCA’s authority.

“At the time (March 21, 2011 incident), I felt the action was retaliation for several council votes, and I feel the political timing now is retaliation for my questioning of the TCA,” Brough previously said. “I have been on the end of many political attacks, but I will not stand for personal attacks on me and my family. I have done nothing wrong.”

Bartlett currently sits on the San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor Agency, which manages the 73 Toll Road, stretching 15 miles from Costa Mesa to San Juan Capistrano in southwest Orange County.

Brough has not returned requests for comment regarding Todd’s rape allegation.

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Patricia Todd, who previously worked as a legislative aide for Sen. John Moorlach (R-Costa Mesa), has recently filed a criminal complaint against outgoing Assemblymember Bill Brough for allegedly raping her after a 2015 dinner in Sacramento. Photo: File

Todd is at least the sixth woman to accuse Brough of sexual assault or harassment in the past decade, and she is the first to publicly accuse him of rape. The Orange County Register reported that Todd is the first alleged victim to report an attack to both the Legislature’s Workplace Conduct Unit and to law enforcement in Sacramento.

Todd told the Register that she hopes Brough, who lost his bid for reelection in March, will serve prison time for the incident that left her contemplating suicide.

In the criminal complaint, Todd said she was at the State Capitol on July 7, 2015 when she encountered Brough. He allegedly asked her to dinner to discuss a job opportunity of working for the California Irish Legislative Caucus.

Over dinner, Todd alleged in the complaint that Brough offered “perks” to go along with the job description. When she questioned that comment, Todd said Brough winked and said, “You know.”

Todd said she told Brough that wouldn’t happen, reminding him they were both married.

When Todd drove Brough home, he allegedly asked her to pull over. Todd told the Register that Brough had had a lot to drink and she wasn’t sure what was wrong. After pulling into a parking lot, she said Brough attacked her and pinned her down on the center console of her car and raped her repeatedly.

“I could not move, and at one point I could not breathe,” she wrote in the complaint. “I was hoarse from screaming.”

She said Brough asked her to drop him off at another bar afterward. Todd developed bruises following the incident, which she photographed, and sought medical attention for the bleeding and injuries.

WHAT’S NEXT: Todd filed the criminal complaint on Nov. 30, and she has reportedly told law enforcement about the photos and dated medical records.

For a longer version of this article, visit thecapistranodispatch.com. This is a developing story.—Lillian Boyd thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Taylor Serves Second Term as Mayor Councilmember John Taylor was named the new Mayor of San Juan Capistrano during the city council’s Dec. 7 meeting, as part of the council’s annual leadership reorganization.

Taylor is replacing Troy Bourne in the role and was picked by fellow councilmembers. Taylor previously served as mayor in 2013 and lives in the Los Rios district with his wife, Marianne Taylor.

“It’s a great honor and privilege to sit on this dais with these four incredible community leaders,” Taylor said. “I thank you for your support and for allowing me the honor for being mayor for the year.”

Taylor said that Bourne was mayor in “perhaps the most tumultuous time in more than a century” and his intelligence, kindness, and extra grace will not be forgotten. Bourne said 2020 was an “interesting and different year” in which the community came together during the difficult time brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and that city officials left behind a previous mood of contention.

“We’ve come together on issues that seemed to be more important—people’s employment, their families, their health care needs,” Bourne said.

Derek Reeve was named the new mayor pro tem, replacing Taylor. It is Reeve’s first time in the role.

“It means a lot to me that you have that trust in me,” Reeve said to his fellow councilmembers.

Orange County, Southern California Under Regional Stay-at-Home Order Orange County and the surrounding Southern California region are under a three-week, stay-at-home order that was mandated by Gov. Gavin Newsom after the area’s available intensive care unit capacity dropped below the state’s 15% threshold this past Friday, Dec. 4.

The order is expected to last through at least Dec. 27, affecting the Christmas and Hanukkah holidays. After those three weeks, the region will be reviewed weekly for its projected four-week ICU capacity, and if that capacity is projected to be at least 15%, the order will be lifted.

Under the new stay-at-home restrictions, private gatherings and the mixing of households are prohibited, while maskwearing is required in all sectors. Also, all in-person dining, bars, breweries, wineries, hair salons, barbershops, and personal care services must remain closed.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

SATURDAY, DEC. 12 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.

Coffee Chat 2.0 5 p.m. CUSD Against Racism will hold a discussion on Capistrano Unified School District’s proposed Cultural Proficiency Plan. RSVP online for a link to attend. cusdagainstracism.carrd.co.

A sign at Mission San Juan Capistrano encourages people to follow public health guidelines. Photo: Collin Breaux

Restaurants can still offer takeout and delivery, and retail and grocery stores will remain open with 20% customer capacity.

Schools that are open can remain open, and religious services and protests can still take place outdoors. Critical infrastructure—including health care, emergency services, food and agriculture, energy, water and communications services, among others—also remains open.

Speaking with The Capistrano Dispatch on Dec. 7, Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett said she is disappointed with the regional stay-at-home order since certain industries such as restaurants have complied with changing guidelines.

“They’ve spent a lot of money safeguarding their premises, staff, and patrons,” said Bartlett, who heard from numerous businesses and restaurateurs about the new order which, in part, only allows takeout and delivery service for restaurants.

Bartlett has called for more local control and is also focused on attempting to reduce the size of the Southern California region and increasing ICU bed capacity so the stay-at-home order can be lifted.

The stay-at-home order encourages mask-wearing and physical distancing, as health officials have maintained throughout the pandemic.

First Batch of Vaccines Coming to Orange County Orange County is preparing for its first allocations of the COVID-19 vaccine.

OC Health Care Agency (OCHCA) officials were notified by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) on

Dec. 1 that the agency should prepare to receive 25,350 doses of the Pfizer-manufactured COVID-19 vaccine on Dec. 15.

The OCHCA says it will distribute this initial supply to Orange County hospitals for prioritization of their high-risk health care workers as part of “Phase 1a” of a multi-phased plan developed through the CDPH Community Vaccine Advisory Committee.

Per state guidelines, Phase 1a calls for the vaccine to be offered to people at direct risk of exposure in their nonclinical roles, such as, but not limited to, environmental services, patient transport or interpretation, as well as residents of skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and similar long-term care settings for older or medically vulnerable individuals.

Local hospitals, however, will need to determine which segments of their employee population are at higher risk for contracting the virus due to this limited quantity.

Andrew Do, the county board’s vice chairman, says that further distribution will be prioritized by risk, role and equity.

This first shipment is one of several in a planned allotment of Phase 1a doses from the CDPH if the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves an Emergency Use Authorization for the vaccines. Additional doses, which are expected to be a combination of Pfizerand Moderna-manufactured vaccines, are slated to arrive by the end of the month if this approval is granted.

As more doses of vaccine become available, a greater portion of the Phase 1a population can anticipate vaccine availability in late December into early 2021.

This includes residents of long-term care facilities, such as skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities that Page 5

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 16 CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting 7 p.m. The Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees will hold a regularly scheduled meeting. The public can find out how to virtually view the meeting by visiting the district’s website at capousd.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 18 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.

FRIDAY, DEC. 25 The next print issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

will coordinate obtaining doses through national retail pharmacies being supplied by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Health officials have said the COVID-19 vaccine is likely to become more readily accessible to the general public in the spring of 2021.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Read longer versions of these COVID-19 stories at thecapistranodispatch.com.

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. thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11–24, 2020

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EYE ON RMV

NEWS & HAPPENINGS AT THE RANCH

Local high school students are getting hands-on environmental science education at The Reserve in Rancho Mission Viejo. Photo: Aimée Nighswonger

Internship Program Teaches Teens Environmental Stewardship

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Some students who learn about the environment might do so through a textbook or video.

For a select group of South Orange County teens, they get to do so by visiting an outdoor preserve close to home.

The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo has started an internship program for junior and senior high school students that gives them a direct opportunity to explore nature and learn about natural resources—particularly, being mindThe Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

ful of conservation when it comes to resources.

Laura Coley Eisenberg, Executive Director for The Reserve, said the program developed because there can be a gap when it comes to professional real-world experience for kids. Wanting to give an opportunity for direct learning and inspiration for local youngsters, Aimée Nighswonger—Interpretive Naturalist at The Reserve—put the program together.

Students collect field data and use scientific tools as part of the program, which has included measuring and identifying trees and plants.

“We want to expose students to different career options in the environmental field,” Nighswonger said.

As part of the application process for the program, students have to write an essay and then be interviewed by Reserve officials—further preparing them for the adult working world.

“For most of them, it was their first interview,” Nighswonger said.

The teens did several different excursions at The Reserve during the program—which started in October—

and finished the program with a final project. Each excursion—one of which was down at San Juan Creek—was guided by a professional specialist that works at The Reserve.

“These interns, they’re learning— whether it’s water management or tree

Rancho Mission Viejo

management—they’re learning from an expert in the field,” Nighswonger said.

“The interns literally got their feet wet,” Eisenberg quipped.

Based on the feedback from the interns, Eisenberg said they look forward to repeating the program next year. CD

TOTAL CASES

COVID-19 UPDATES as of 12/9/20

cases

deaths

TOTAL

116

<5

LAST 30 DAYS

36

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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The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 18, Issue 23. 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 2020. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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The Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

GUEST OPINION: by Chris Kramer

Climate Change’s Negative Impact on Parks

You Need Us,We Need You

"N

ature. That’s the one thing that tips the balance in terms of living here in California. Within minutes, I can be in a desert, at the ocean, in a park, and that’s the most nourishing food for my soul.” – Lara Pulver, English actress.

Whether we were born here or are transplants, we love our parks, but climate change is having a negative impact on them.

The warming ocean and air temperatures concurrent with the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions skyrocketing since the industrial revolution have dire consequences on our more than 280 California State Parks.

A rising sea level and an expected increase in shoreline erosion will shrink popular California State Park beaches, and threaten many facilities.

We have already seen that at Doheny State Beach with the loss of parking spaces, and at the beach south of Doheny, with the loss of bathrooms, erosion of the walking/ bike trail and the loss of the basketball court.

Tide pool animals typical of Southern California are replacing colderwater species along the GUEST OPINION central coast, competing

By Chris Kramer with local species.

A few inches of sea-level rise could mean the loss of thousands of acres of valuable wildlife habitat.

Some spring wildflowers are already blooming earlier than before, disturbing their relationship with pollinators.

In Joshua Tree, the loss of trees will reduce bird species by 40%.

The State Park System’s 1.6 million acres are a rich storehouse of biodiversity, and the Park works to preserve, protect and expand park wildlands to make it possible for many climate-threatened species to survive.

Our parks are doing their part to reduce greenhouse gases by making their facilities more energy-efficient, relying more on solar power, and using lower-emission vehicles.

But even with these actions, human-caused emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases are changing California.

Regardless of Earth’s historical fluctuations between warm and cool, wet and dry, the proven relationship between increasing temperature and dramatic CO2 levels since the 1800s is fact. To save the planet from runaway temperature rise, we must stop the increase

BY NORB GARRETT, OWNER AND PUBLISHER OF PICKET FENCE MEDIA

A

s we enter Week One of the new NORB GARRETT three-week “stay-at-home order” imposed by Gov. Newsom, a return to OWNER & PUBLISHER OF PICKET FENCE MEDIA “normal” seems further and further away from reality.

Even with the promise of new vaccines to help combat COVID-19, the reality of the shutdown and its dramatic negative impacts on families, businesses—both big and small—the service economy and just about everyone, short of Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg, is both palpable and daunting.

All of us here at Picket Fence Media are working hard to continue to keep our communities informed and moving forward. Despite seeing a short period of “recovery” in September and October, our local businesses are again reeling from the impacts of government-mandated regulations.

Closures are hitting close to home: Just two weeks ago, I learned that our printer of 15 years was shutting down, leaving us scrambling to find a new printer before the holidays. To date, COVID-19 has caused the closure of more than 20 community newspapers in California, and we’re hell-bent not to join that list.

This week, we’ve launched a new initiative seeking monthly or annual support from you, our readers, to ensure we can survive and continue to provide critical local news during this crisis and into the future.

Our new campaign asks readers to commit to a monthly or annual “Insider” membership to help us offset advertising revenue shortfalls. During the summer, more than 400 readers voluntarily stepped up to support for our efforts, which was hugely helpful and appreciated.

As we enter 2021, we know we will need at least 4,000 total “Insiders” from our communities to help us keep our content free and accessible to the more than 100,000 digital readers and 40,000 print readers we reach.

With that support, we’ll be able to keep our hard-working staff focused on delivering the only original, hyper-local content in San Clemente, Dana Point, Capistrano Beach, San Juan Capistrano and Rancho Mission Viejo.

Aside from helping keep our business alive, “Insiders” also will receive exclusive monthly “Insider Deals” and other perks.

More than ever, “You Need Us, We Need You.” Please go online today at thecapistranodispatch.com/insider and make your investment in award-winning local journalism and, ultimately, in your community.

Together, we can get through this. Thank you for your continued support!

in the atmospheric CO2.

Please read the excellent web version of the Park’s brochure “Climate Change and California State Parks” for more information.

And don’t be discouraged! You can make a difference by reducing your “carbon footprint.” Keep reading future columns for actions you can take.

Chris Kramer is an 18-year resident of San Juan Capistrano and a member of the South Orange County chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby/Education.

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She and her husband, Larry, have moved 26 times in their married life, including to India (Andhra Pradesh) and Africa (Ghana). She has a MLIS from University of Hawaii and a BA from University of Michigan (Go Blue). 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. The Capistrano Dispatch and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C;24, 2020

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Holiday Happenings Saturday, Dec. 12 SEE THE ‘WORLD’S TALLEST TREE’

Get a gander of what is being promoted as the “world’s tallest tree” at the Outlets of San Clemente, from now through Jan. 4. The 125-foot white fir Christmas tree from Mt. Shasta is a great spot for the family photos.

101 W Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.535.2323. outletsatsanclemente.com.

HOLIDAYS AT THE HARBOR

Check out the annual holiday light display at Dana Point Harbor, from now through January 3. There will be lighted trees and themed exhibits for visitors to admire. 34571 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. 949.388.3663. danapointharbor.com.

VIRTUAL SANTA EXPERIENCE

Schedule a video call with Santa Claus through Fashion Island. Pick a day and time convenient for you to virtually connect to the North Pole. Cost is $25. Experience is available through Dec. 24. fashionisland.com.

Saturday, Dec. 19 PHOTOS WITH SANTA FROM A DISTANCE

Noon-6 p.m. Take a free photo with Santa next to the proclaimed “world’s tallest tree” at the Outlets at San Clemente. Other available dates are

Dec. 13 and Dec. 19-23. 101 W Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente.

949.535.2323. outletsatsanclemente.com.

A NOT-SO-SILENT NIGHT: OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE

4-7 p.m. A free event featuring live music, live nativity scene, crafts for kids, and hot drinks. Experience the joy of the season through songs and scenes from the Christmas story. The entire event is outdoors, with space for social distancing. South Shores Church, 32712 Crown Valley Parkway, Dana Point. 949.496.9331. southshores.org.

Sunday, Dec. 13 HOLIDAY DECORATIONS AT THE RITZ-CARLTON

From now through January 2, bring the family to check out the sandthemed holiday decorations in the lobby at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. The display celebrates the ocean, surfing, and other aspects of South Orange County. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com.

HOLIDAY YOGA IN THE PARK

4-6 p.m. iHeartYoga will ring in an evening of holiday joy at Lantern Bay Park with yoga. Bring your favorite Christmas sweater and pajamas.

25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point.

949.577.6634. iheartyoga.org.

(Continued)

Editor’s note: These events are subject to change during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11–24, 2020

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Holiday Happenings (continued)

Wednesday, Dec. 16 HOLIDAY CAROLERS AT DANA POINT HARBOR

4-7 p.m. Listen to some seasonal tunes while enjoying the water and shops in Dana Point. Carolers will also be out on Dec. 23. 34675 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point.

949.388.3663. danapointharbor.com.

Thursday, Dec. 17 MUSICAL HOLIDAY ‘FUN RAISER’ 7 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse is hosting this virtual event. The Ron Koybiashi Trio and others will provide entertainment. The show will be available through Christmas night, and link information is to be announced. The San Juan Capistrano theater has been closed for in-person public performances during the coronavirus pandemic. 949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

Friday, Dec. 18 DRIVE-IN MOVIE ON THE MEADOWS

5-7:30 p.m. The City of San Clemente is hosting a screening of The Grinch at Vista Hermosa Sports Park. Vehicle registration is $15, and pre-registration is required. Visit the city’s website for information on parking and safety guidelines. 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

NIGHT OF LIGHTS OC

5-9 p.m. Experience a safe drive-thru holiday experience with winter wonderland lights, music, and other seasonal sights. Expect snow, Santa, and bubbles. Tickets can be purchased online. Days, times, and availability vary. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa. nightoflightsoc.com.

Monday, Dec. 21 MONSTER OF THE MONTH: SANTA CLAUS

4-5 p.m. Author Colin Dickey and Atlas Obscura will hold a Zoom discussion about the mythology behind the Christmas mascot. Find out why leaving milk and cookies for St. Nick has become a tradition, as well as what his connection is with the Yeti.

Cost is $12 per device. atlasobscura. com.

Thursday, Dec. 31 SUNSET SAFARI ON NEW YEAR’S EVE

3-5:30 p.m. Get a chance to see dolphins and whales at Dana Point Harbor with Capt. Dave’s Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari, while saying goodbye to 2020. You’ll also get to enjoy the sunset and a complimentary glass of champagne or sparkling cider. Wine and beer will be available to purchase. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.577.7451. dolphinsafari.com.

Editor’s note: These events are subject to change during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11–24, 2020

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE – SAN CLEMENTE Sat. Dec 12, 9 am-3 pm, Sun. Dec 13, 9 am-1 pm. 21 East El Portal. Coastal/Christmas décor & More. Misc household items. No early birds.

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 December 11-24, 2020

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GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

EDITOR’S PICK

Rich Hutchinson, Sharon Keener and Holly Koether portrayed a family for a recent Christmas scene at Camino Real Playhouse. The San Juan Capistrano venue will host another fun event for the community—this one virtually—on Dec. 17. Photo: Collin Breaux

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17: MUSICAL HOLIDAY ‘FUN RAISER’ 7 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse is hosting another virtual event. The Ron Koybiashi Trio and others will provide entertainment. The show will be available through Christmas night, and link information is to be announced. The San Juan Capistrano theater has been closed for in-person public performances during the coronavirus pandemic. 949.489.8082. caminorealplayhouse.org.

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week COMPILED BY STAFF

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to The Capistrano Dispatch by going to capistranodispatch.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

Saturday | 12 DONATION DROP-OFF 1-3 p.m. Local entertainment venue The Coach House and Soul Center OC are hosting a Helping Hearts donation drive on Dec. 12 and 13. The drop-off site will be in The Coach House parking lot. The donations will benefit Laura’s House, Thomas House Family Shelter, and Project Hope Alliance—organizations which variously help domestic violence victims The Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

and homeless families and children. Donations can include non-perishable food items; new or slightly used clothes for men, women and children; toys and other gifts, and gift cards. Local entertainer Doug Starks and The Reindeer Games will provide live music during the drop-off hours. Parking is available if you want to listen in your car. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.675.5543. soulcenteroc.com.

DRIVE-THRU FOOD DISTRIBUTION 9-11:30 a.m. FOCUS Orange County is holding a drive-thru food distribution event for anyone in need during these challenging times. Food will be placed in the trunk of your vehicle when you pull up, so recipients are asked to have their trunk open while in line. Food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. An additional distribution day will be held Dec. 18. St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, 27129 Calle Arroyo, Suite #1803, San Juan Capistrano.

866.267.3083. focusnorthamerica.org/orange-county.

ART ALONG THE COAST 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Go on a drive through Or-

ange County and check out art along the way during this event. Artists will open their private studios and gallery venues.

Work will be featured from artists in San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente, and other areas. Participants will follow current health guidelines. Check online for a full list of stops. Contact Sharon Jackman at shaja@cox.net if you have questions. artalongthecoast.org.

ONLINE ON-DEMAND ‘NUTCRACKER’ SPECIAL Any time. Ballet Lubbock brings to you a rendition of The Nutcracker, a holiday classic, in the comfort of your own home.

The special runs approximately an hour and is available through Dec. 31. Download links will include extra content, including a welcome from their sponsor.

806.785.3090. balletlubbock.org.

Sunday | 13 DRIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHT 4:30 p.m. The San Juan Equestrian Coalition is hosting a safe drive-in movie night at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park.

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Gates open at 4:30, and the movie starts at 5:30. Love Actually will be shown. Cost is $30 per car for members and $50 per car for non-members. Event capacity is limited to 141 cars, so you’re urged to buy a ticket ahead of time. Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, 30753 La Pata Road, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuanequestrian.org.

Friday | 18 NIGHT OF LIGHTS OC 5-9 p.m. Experience a safe drive-thru holiday experience with winter wonderland lights, music, and other seasonal sights.

Expect snow, Santa, and bubbles. Tickets can be purchased online. Days, times, and availability vary. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa. nightoflightsoc.com.

Saturday | 19 ZOOM JAZZ DANCE CLASS 9-10 a.m. Bonnie Wallace Dance hosts weekly Zoom jazz dance classes for thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT beginners and more experienced enthusiasts. Sessions will include stretches, warm-up exercises, and dance routines.

Register online; one-hour sessions are $5 a class, and 80-minute sessions are $6 a class. Sign up for their newsletter to get a free first class. bonniewallacedance.com. 626.644.4845.

‘GRINCHMAS’ ONLINE PAINTING CLASS 2 p.m. Take a virtual paint class and create your own Christmas scene with The Paint Sesh. An instructor will guide you through as you bring your mind’s eye to life with your own materials. Cost is $15 per person. 562.762.3420. thepaintsesh.com.

Thursday | 24 BLOOD DONATION OPPORTUNITY 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Red Cross and Overflowing Community Church will host a blood drive. Overflowing Church, 27184 Ortega Hwy., #201, San Juan Capistrano. redcrossblood.org.

EDITOR’S NOTE: These events could be subject to change during the coronavirus pandemic and the regional stay-at-home order for Southern California. Check with listed groups for up-to-date information.

Photo: Courtesy of Dominion Films/K Street Pictures

At the Movies: ‘Last Call’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

B

iopics, which aren’t foolproof with critics and audiences, are perplexing, because you would think it would be hard to mess up such a traditional screen formula.

Fortunately, in the case of Steven Bernstein’s Last Call, I can say that the new biopic is generally a good feature, despite being shelved for almost five years.

Shot in both color and black and white, Last Call portrays the final days of legendary romantic poet Dylan Thomas (played by Rhys Ifans) as he is tortured by both his craft and alcoholism in Greenwich Village, New York in 1953. Throughout the film, we see Dylan leave his wife Caitlin (Romola Garai) and their children in Wales to tour and showcase his poems and other works on American college campuses and in arts centers.

Dylan’s fellow writer and friend John Brinnin (Tony Hale) is constantly reminding the Welsh writer to edit a book Brinnin is writing.

There’s a lot to appreciate with Last Call. The whole cast is exceptionally memorable and impressive, especially Ifans as the lead. I wouldn’t say the period character piece is style over substance, but the quality of the movie does depend most on the performances and Bernstein’s artistic direction. The cinematographer-turned-director’s choice to have the Wales sequences be in color while all of the New York City scenes in black in white is clever, and the fantasy elements and non-linear structure between Dylan’s home life, poetry tours and car visits are fitting.

It’s too bad that Last Call was released in the middle of the unpredictable shuffle of 2020, because this is one of the more distinctive historical dramas to come out recently. CD

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

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SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

Holiday Traditions O

ne of the great aspects of the holidays is the food and the family traditions that go with each recipe. This year, because of the virus and the lockdown, gatherings will be different.

Usually, we think of Christmas with ham, goose or turkey. But in many Mexican households, the holiday tradition is for tamales.

Tamales, which are made from corn, were usually sent with hunters, travelers and soldiers for portable food. They were the first wraps. The word tamale is probably a derivation of the Aztec word tamalli. As far back as 10,000 years, Mesoamerican faiths believed that God had crafted the human form from corn, and since corn was the substance of life, consuming it became a religious experience.

Tamales are a way of preserving and celebrating Mexican culture. Unlike the Anglo adage that too many cooks spoil the broth, or there are too many cooks in the kitchen, the Mexican tradition of making tamales is the more, the merrier. It is a family affair.

Tamales became part of the Mexican celebration of Los Posadas, which is the annual commemoration of Mary and Joseph’s trip for shelter before the birth of Jesus. Tamales can be made in advance, can be made in big batches, and are easy to transport once made.

But tamales are not easy to make.

They are labor-intensive. First, there is the washing and soaking of the corn husks. Then there is the making of the dough. The meats and beans have to be seasoned before being rolled into the dough. It is not uncommon to have a tamalada—a tamale party. That way, you can work like an assembly line, with each person doing one job of preparation. And this was one way how family stories were passed down from one generation to another.

With families at home, this may be a good time to have a tamalada and start a new holiday tradition.

There are many places on the internet to find recipes and to find demonstrations of how to make the tamale.

Like the Christmas MOMENTS tree, ham became a IN TIME popular holiday food

By Jan Siegel through German culture. Wild boar was a popular food for feasts for many European cultures in early centuries. Germans ate ham during their Yuletide celebrations, a festival honoring the mythical Wild Hunt and praying for fertility. Norse cultures also ate boar as a tribute to Freyr, a god of fertility, prosperity and fair weather. As Christianity spread across the world, the Christmas ham became a world tradition.

Whatever your family traditions, spend a Moment In Time this season and reflect on how the traditions came into your household. And this just might be the year to try making some family traditions. Generations from now, your family will be telling stories about the year of the virus.

Have a happy and healthy New Year and stay safe.

Jan Siegel was a 33-year resident of

Photo: Courtesy of Santa Ana History Room and OC Public Libraries

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo depicts the iconic bells at Mission San Juan Capistrano. The year is unknown.

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.

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

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Currant

BY MYLES MELLOR Solution:

T

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

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.

Sudoku

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

his handsome boy is Currant, a 3-month-old kitten who just can’t wait to meet you. Currant is an outgoing kitten who loves to play and explore with his siblings. When he is ready for a break, he enjoys being petted and held, but then is right back to his fun. Could this frolicsome little feline be the one for you?

All adoption fees for cats and kittens are reduced by 50% during the month of December.

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

Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD

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

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

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

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SJC LIVING

Holiday Events in San Juan Capistrano

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Mission San Juan Capistrano hosted the opening night of their annual Capistrano Lights holiday program on Dec. 3. Attendees had to wear masks and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Capacity was limited due to the COVID-19 crisis. Further dates have been canceled due to the stay-at-home-order enacted in Southern California, and the Mission itself is temporarily closed until further notice as of Dec. 10.

The City of San Juan Capistrano held a drive-thru celebration on Dec. 5, enabling families to ride by in their vehicles and enjoy Christmas sights at Historic Town Center Park.

View more photos at thecapistranodispatch.com.

Holiday celebrations in San Juan Capistrano were different this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Photos: Collin Breaux

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HAPPENING: SJC COMMUNITY-SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Thank you to the Catholic Charities Auxiliary, South County, which got together in two small groups to assemble 250 red gift bags for the needy families in South Orange County. The bags will be given to FAM (Family Assistance Ministries), Welcome In, St. Vincent de Paul, St. Kilian Church, Mission Basilica Outreach, Community Table, and Saint Timothy Catholic Church. All of these nonprofits have community outreach programs and service South Orange County. CCA South County volunteers also purchase Christmas gifts for needy families and purses for women in need. Photo: Catholic Charities Auxiliary, South County.

Reader Teress Weber, Director of CCA, South County (Chapter 4), sent in this photo. If you have an interesting photo, send it to City Editor Collin Breaux at cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com, and it could be featured in an upcoming issue.

The Capistrano Dispatch December 11-24, 2020

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Season’s Retreatings CIF puts hold on competition until likely January, cancels state championships

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he start of the high school sports season has been delayed once again, now likely until the next calendar year.

On Tuesday, Dec. 1, the CIF State office announced that all full practice and competition start dates for the fall sports season are officially on hold as players, coaches, teams and athletic governing bodies all wait for updated state guidance on youth and high school sports. The CIF does not expect guidance to allow a return to play until after Jan. 1, 2021 at the earliest.

Updated state guidance on youth sports was expected in mid-November, but as the state pulled its “emergency brake” with coronavirus cases and hospitalizations continuing to surge at the same or higher rates than the previous peaks of July, the guidance was delayed.

In the CIF-Southern Section, fall sports were slated to return with boys volleyball opening for games on Dec. 12, football beginning full practices on Dec. 14 and girls volleyball, boys and girls water polo and cross country opening through the rest of the month. Now, all fall sports will have to continue in the holding pattern of conditioning workouts they’ve been running since August.

The CIF State office also announced the cancellation of the fall sports regional and state championships, which would allow CIF sections to move back their playoffs and give schools and teams more runway to play as many games as possible instead of cramming a limited amount of games into a shortened season. The CIF-SS said it would update the status of its fall sports championships on Jan. 19, 2021.

Additionally, CIF moved boys volleyball and its regional and state championships back to the spring. As a consideration for gym time and space, boys volleyball had been moved back to the fall instead of its traditional spot in the spring. However, citing the fact that boys volleyball had its 2020 spring season and championships canceled, CIF did not want to see a sport canceled twice and moved boys volleyball back to the spring.

While CIF State officially has practices The Capistrano Dispatch December 11–24, 2020

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As state guidance remains delayed, high school sports likely on hold until the new year, according to CIF. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

and competitions on hold, CIF-SS said its calendar for the 2020-21 school year “is in place and will remain in place” with the provision that schedules are likely to be delayed and some postponements and cancellations may be in line.

“If schools are not able to begin practice/competition for fall sports in midDecember, as originally planned,” CIF-SS commissioner Rob Wigod said in an update on Tuesday, Dec. 1, “then the hope would be you can begin at a time in the future that would allow you to do so.”

With the continued delay in state guidance and the CIF State announcement, the expectation is that tournaments and nonleague games would be canceled or postponed at the start of the seasons. Wigod said that at minimum, league play and the CIF-SS playoffs would remain as scheduled.

“If regular seasons are shortened, it would be at the front end of the season,” Wigod said, “keeping the back end of the season unchanged. It is our intention for postseason play to be a destination for schools who are able to play this fall, even more so if regular seasons are reduced at the beginning.”

Full practices and competitions first came to a halt in mid-March, and it wasn’t until June 15 that the county released guidance to allow youth sports practices.

Capistrano Unified School District schools had set a tentative return to camps for July 6 before those plans were scrapped and state guidance that counteracted that earlier county guidance was announced on July 8.

CIF-SS made the announcement of its new 2020-21 schedule on July 20, and the state amended its guidance on Aug. 3 to allow for conditioning workouts. CUSD then opened its Phase 1 conditioning camps on Aug. 18 with limited group sizes and activities. CUSD programs then worked up to Phase 2 on Sept. 23 and to Phase 3 on Oct. 26, with groups of up to 20 athletes and shared use of equipment while maintaining physical distancing of six feet. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

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