April 10, 2020

INSIDE: Celebrating Earth Day and More in The Green Issue OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE

SPECIAL SECTION

FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

APRIL 10-23, 2020 • VOLUME 18, ISSUE 7

Recovery

San Juan Hills Alumna Discusses Experience with COVID-19 E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 4

Olivia Fu experienced symptoms associated with COVID-19 and encourages others to stay home to limit its spread. Photo: Courtesy of Olivia Fu

CIF Cancels Spring Sports Postseason SPORTS/PAGE 22

Local Eats: List of Restaurants Offering Take-Out/Delivery GETTING OUT/PAGE 19

thecapistranodispatch.com

Report Examines Mission Docent Society EYE ON SJC/PAGE 5

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

DO YOU KNOW A BUSINESS IN NEED? The San Juan Chamber is here to help.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COALITION OF CALIFORNIA CHAMBERS – ORANGE COUNTY

Small Business Guide and Checklist The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocated $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn. Known as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the initiative provides 100% federally guaranteed loans to small businesses. Importantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers maintain their payrolls during the crisis or restore their payrolls afterward. The administration has released initial guidelines; they are available at www.treasury.gov. You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution that is participating. While the program is open until June 30, 2020, the government is advising borrowers to apply as soon as possible given the loan cap on the program.

1. Am I Eligible?

You are eligible if you are: • A small business with fewer than 500 employees • A small business that otherwise meets the SBA’s size standard • A 501(c)(3) with fewer than 500 employees • An individual who operates as a sole proprietor • An individual who operates as an independent contractor • An individual who is self-employed who regularly carries on any trade or business • A Tribal business concern that meets the SBA size standard • A 501(c)(19) Veterans Organization that meets the SBA size standard In addition, some special rules may make you eligible: • If you are in the accommodation and food services sector (NAICS 72), the 500-employee rule is applied on a per physical location basis • If you are operating as a franchise or receive financial assistance from an approved Small Business Investment Company the normal affiliation rules do not apply

2. What Will Lenders be Looking For? Borrowers will need to complete the Paycheck Protection Loan Application and payroll documentation Lenders will also ask you for a good faith certification that: 1. The uncertainty of current economic conditions makes the loan request necessary to support ongoing operations 2. The borrower will use the loan proceeds to retain workers and maintain payroll or make mortgage, lease, and utility payments 3. Borrower does not have an application pending for a loan duplicative of the purpose and amounts applied for here 4. From Feb. 15, 2020 to Dec. 31, 2020, the borrower has not received a loan duplicative of the purpose and amounts applied for here If you are an independent contractor, sole proprietor, or self-employed individual, lenders will also be looking for certain documents (final requirements will be announced by the government) such as payroll tax filings, Forms 1099-MISC, and income and expenses from the sole proprietorship.

3. How Much Can I Borrow?

employees that is a: • salary, wage, commission, or similar compensation; • payment of cash tip or equivalent; • payment for vacation, parental, family, medical, or sick leave • allowance for dismissal or separation • payment required for the provisions of group health care benefits, including insurance premiums • payment of any retirement benefit • payment of state or local tax assessed on the compensation of the employee 2. For Sole Proprietors, Independent Contractors, and Self-Employed Individuals: The sum of payments of any compensation to or income of a sole proprietor or independent contractor that is a wage, commission, income, net earnings from self-employment, or similar compensation and that is in an amount that is not more than $100,000 in one year, as pro-rated for the covered period.

EXCLUDED PAYROLL COST: 1. Compensation of an individual employee in excess of an annual salary of $100,000, as prorated for the period February 15, to June 30, 2020 2. Payroll taxes, railroad retirement taxes, and income taxes 3. Any compensation of an employee whose principal place of residence is outside of the United States

4. Will this Loan be Forgiven?

A borrower is eligible for loan forgiveness equal to the amount spent on the following items during the eight-week period beginning on the date of the origination of the loan: • Payroll costs (using the same definition of payroll costs used to determine loan eligibility) • Interest on the mortgage obligation incurred in the ordinary course of business • Rent on a leasing agreement • Payments on utilities (electricity, gas, water, transportation, telephone, or internet) • For borrowers with tipped employees, additional wages paid to those employees Not more than 25% of the forgiven amount may be for non-payroll costs and the loan forgiveness cannot exceed the principal.

INCLUDED PAYROLL COST: 1. For Employers: The sum of payments of any compensation with respect to

The amount of loan forgiveness is reduced if there is a reduction in the number of employees or a reduction of greater than 25% in wages paid to employees. Reductions in employment or wages that occur between February 15, 2020 and April 26, 2020 (as compared to February 15, 2020) shall not reduce the amount of loan forgiveness if by June 30, 2020 the borrower eliminates the reduction in employees or reduction in wages.

For more information, please contact the San Juan Chamber of Commerce at (949) 493-4700 or info@sanjuanchamber.com or visit www.uschamber.com/co

JOHN ALPAY Chairman San Juan Chamber of Commerce

GEORGE PEPPAS Chief Executive Officer Coalition of California Chambers - OC

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week San Juan Hills Alumna Details Coronavirus Experience THE LATEST: Olivia Fu, who is 20 and a 2018 graduate of San Juan Hills High School, has recovered from the coronavirus after testing positive for it in March.

Fu attends Stanford University and initially woke up on March 10 with a sore throat. She didn’t think anything at first, but then asked her parents if she should get tested after she developed other symptoms.

Fu called her student health center and went through screenings before she got tested.

She was initially told she tested negative, but eventually learned she actually had tested positive. Fu was angry about the initial misunderstanding, but said she understands since the health care system is currently overwhelmed.

“I feel fine now,” Fu said. “I got pretty lucky. My symptoms were light.”

Fu and her parents went into isolation after her diagnosis, and she also informed co-workers she might have exposed. Fu also decided to get tested since she had traveled, though only between Stanford and Orange County.

Her symptoms lasted only several days, though Fu calls the experience shocking.

The initial reaction from family and friends was of surprise, and her parents knew how to handle the situation since they are doctors.

People asked her about COVID-19 after she posted about it on social media, and Fu used that as a chance to share information from health agencies with them.

Fu encouraged people to remain indoors and practice social distancing. Though Fu recovered, COVID-19 can be fatal.

“It was definitely a crazy experience,” Fu said. “Even though I’ve been physically OK for a while, getting back into a normal headspace hasn’t happened yet.” —Collin Breaux

City Considering Affordable Housing on City-Owned Property THE LATEST: As part of plans for more affordable housing, the San Juan Capistrano City Council approved an exclusive negotiation agreement with Jamboree Housing Corporation for potential housing on property The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

A new Target store under development reportedly is not being delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo: Collin Breaux

near San Juan Capistrano City Hall during a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 7.

Up to 40 housing units and a new city hall building could go up on a 2 ½-acre portion of property at 32400 Paseo Adelanto. The City of San Juan Capistrano and Jamboree Housing will assess the viability of the proposal.

The consideration for affordable housing is related to state requirements. The project site is roughly between the creek and railroad tracks. The housing project would be three stories and behind the new city hall. Two levels of residential units would be above a parking garage for the housing site.

The new city hall would be constructed in the general location of the current city hall.

“We estimate the project cost to be about $23 million,” said Joel Rojas, Director of Development Services for the city.

The developer has identified an approximately $5 million gap in funding that the city will need to address. City Manager Ben Siegel said the gap would be addressed through funds earmarked for affordable housing.

Councilmember Derek Reeve expressed support for the consideration, though noted it is “really preliminary.”

“I think the concept is outstanding. We have a duty as a city to address our affordable housing needs, but we also have a serious need to upgrade and address our failing city hall issue,” Reeve said. “This is outstanding partnership of public and private (sectors) coming together. I want to thank Jamboree, and I want to thank (city) staff.”

Mayor Pro Tem John Taylor noted the site is near a park and trails and called it a “very win-win situation.”

WHAT’S NEXT: If the city and Jamboree Housing agree the project is feasible, the project will then go before public hearings and reviewed by the City Design Review Committee, Cultural Heritage Commission and Planning Commission. There also are other regulatory steps the project must go through.—CB

Mental Health Needs Rise THE LATEST: Mental health issues are

increasing during the coronavirus pandemic, several local mental health service providers recently confirmed.

Anxiety and stress were cited in particular by South Orange County professionals when reached for comment. William Martin, a psychologist based in San Clemente, said people are reacting to the unknown factor now in the world and rapid changes to daily life, with schools, gyms and businesses closed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During the pandemic, local experts recommend people turn to telehealth, which enables patients and clinicians to communicate electronically about health-related services and issues.—CB

New Target Store Unaffected by Pandemic THE LATEST: Plans for the new Target store in San Juan Capistrano reportedly are moving ahead and haven’t been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Property landlord Andrew Stroscher said social distancing guidelines obviously need to be taken into consideration, but development has not been significantly affected.

Page 4

“Nothing is shut down, but we’re being careful,” Stroscher said.

The Target store will replace a former Ralphs grocery store space on Del Obispo Street. The Target logo is already visible at the property. No specific date for the store’s opening has been released, but the new store is expected to open sometime in 2020.

Stroscher said the general timeline has not shifted due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

As for other businesses at the shopping center, Chick-fil-A is doing prep work to also move in. Chick-fil-A will take over the spot formerly occupied by Citibank.

“I’m looking forward to the center reopening and being brand new,” Stroscher said.

Officials involved with separate development projects in San Juan Capistrano, such as the River Street Marketplace and Inn at the Mission, did not respond to requests for comment on how their projects might be affected by the pandemic.—CB

Distance Learning Continuing Indefinitely THE LATEST: Distance learning will continue “until further notice” at Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) schools, the district announced through its news source, CUSD Insider, on Thursday, April 2.

CUSD has utilized online education— otherwise referred to as distance learning—while campuses have been closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gov. Gavin Newsom and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond said it was unlikely schools would reopen this school year.

“While our hope is to return to classrooms before our last day of school, this may not be realistic given the current environment, and it appears more unlikely every day,” CUSD Chief Communications Officer Ryan Burris said in a letter to families. “In the meantime, there are many pressing questions that we must evaluate and plan for, as if we are not returning to school sites, such as graduation ceremonies, student assessments, and distance learning grading practices—to name just a few.”

Principals such as Diann Buckingham at Tijeras Creek Elementary School and Jean Grabowski at Wagon Wheel Elementary School have personally read to students as part of distance learning, as displayed in YouTube videos posted by CUSD Insider. Teachers have also used music in instructional videos.

WHAT’S NEXT: The CUSD Board of Trustees will discuss the school year calendar revisions and other coronavirusrelated decisions during an April 15 meeting. The meeting will be livestreamed online.—CB thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

A financial report said funds from a closed Mission San Juan Capistrano Docent Society bank account were subsequently transferred to the Mission. Photo: Chelsie Rex

Report Addresses Docent Society Relationship to Mission, Finances

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A financial report by Redwitz, an accounting firm, said there are no records that reflect the formation of the Mission San Juan Capistrano Docent Society as a separate and independent entity from Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Some docents and Mission leadership have clashed after personal disagreements on a number of issues, including educational material and management styles. Some disgruntled docents have become personae non gratae at the Mission as a result.

In a Feb. 10 letter to the Mission Board of Directors, Redwitz— noting they had been asked to review and comment on the structure and accounting activities of the former Docent Society—said docent accounting activities are the ultimate responsibility of Mission management and the Board of Directors and that the Docent Society should be accountable to the Mission.

At issue is a bank account the Docent Society had maintained since 2008. At the recommendation of independent auditors, Mission management directed the Docent Society and other volunteer groups to turn over relevant bank accounts to the Mission accounting department.

The Docent Society was “resistant to comply,” but the account was closed in 2019, according to the report. Funds were transferred to a Mission bank account and continued to be accounted and designated for Docent Society activities and needs.

“The Citibank account of the Docent Society was originally opened in 2008 by Docent Society volunteers under the name of the Mission and using the Mission’s nonprofit ID number, but without the Mission accounting office’s approval,” the report said. “The address on the account was originally set up as the The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

Mission’s address, and the bank statements were mailed to the Mission. Later, the volunteers changed the address on file to the personal address of one of the volunteers and began having the bank statements mailed to that volunteer’s personal residence.”

An inquiry is underway, with the bank to determine how the account was allowed to be opened by volunteers using the ID number.

The report also said the Docent Society’s founding charter reflects the original intention of the then-pastor to have the Docent Society be subject to his approval, along with the approval of two other board members. Subsequent amendments to the bylaws reflect a removal of oversight from the pastor and other officials, “and there is no evidence to suggest that this action was ever approved by Mission management or Board of Directors.”

Disgruntled docents disagreed with aspects of the report when reached for comment by The Capistrano Dispatch. Peg Hyland said the Redwitz report “doesn’t tell the whole story and is one-sided.”

Helen Gavin said the report contains “inconsistencies” and a “lack of known history” of the Docent Society, projecting a “newly created storyline that belies the truth of a 38-year relationship.”

“The Charter presented had to be voted on and thus approved by all the members of the Docent Society, making the Society an unincorporated association at that point,” Gavin said. “It was and is a separate organization unto itself, with a charter and bylaws approved by the members which are legally binding rules by which the organization is governed.”

The report also said the Docent Society was disbanded in 2019 and no longer functioning in the capacity for which they formed. Gavin disagreed that the Society was disbanded, and instead said they were just disinvited to have their meetings on the Mission grounds.

“At this time, there are over 30 dues-paying members of the Society, and it will continue to grow with its continued purpose of serving the historic San Juan Capistrano community in various ways,” Gavin said.

Funds from the bank account should be returned to the Docent Society, Gavin said.

“The Mission San Juan Capistrano Docent Society is a separate organization, separate and distinct from Mission San Juan Page 5

Capistrano itself,” Gavin said. “This independence was accomplished with the implied, if not actual, consent under three Pastors and at least four administrators or executive directors.”

Kerry Ferguson, a current docent and former mayor of San Juan Capistrano, said they are, by no means, a splinter or small disgruntled group. The Docent Society has been told they would need to be self-supporting from the start of the group and always has been, Ferguson said.

“The Redwitz report makes liberal use of the 1981 Charter in order to justify actions taken by the Mission’s Executive Director,” Ferguson said. “However, in practice over the last 38 years, the MSJC Docent Society has functioned as an independently organized group unchallenged by Mission Monsignors and Administrators. The Charter has been on the shelf.”

The Docent Society has donated gratuities or donations directly to the Mission in addition to supporting itself, and Docent Society Bylaws printed in the annual Directory for at least 20 years have never been challenged in any way, even though they provide for a President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer, Ferguson continued.

“It excludes Mission Administrators as a supervising board,” Ferguson said. “One has to ask why bylaws were created if the charter was in effect.”

Ferguson said there is implied consent to the Docent Society’s independent status since their independence was never previously contradicted.

“Given all of this, the idea that the Mission SJC Docent Society could suddenly be disbanded by non-voting board members strains credulity. If they wish to ask the Society to discontinue the relationship, that’s one thing, but disbanding flies in the face of 38 years of history,” Ferguson said. “As I’ve said before, handling the group in the calloused manner that the Executive Director has signals an end to Franciscan hospitality at Mission San Juan Capistrano.”

The Docent Society will soon hold its annual elections and continue to serve the community of San Juan Capistrano and beyond in many ways.

Mission Executive Director Mechelle Lawrence Adams declined to comment for this story. Other volunteers have continued serving at the Mission, which as of press time was temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

pandemic. The funds have supported 46 families so far, with $12,000 in grocery cards sent.

“There has been so much despair and pain across our communities, but today was a symbol of the tremendous strength we all share in service and support of one another,” the organization said in a press release.

COMPILED BY STAFF

Mission Offering Digital Tours Mission San Juan Capistrano has a “Walk through Mission San Juan Capistrano and Visit to Serra Chapel” video on their new Digital Resource Center page at missionsjc.com, in time for Easter.

Viewers can digitally visit the grounds of the Mission and the Chapel. The Mission is temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic—the first time the grounds have been closed in 100 years.

Shea Center Adapting to Coronavirus Era The Shea Center has taken steps to adapt to the coronavirus era, including using telehealth FaceTime sessions for clients to continue interacting with their favorite horses, animals and therapists or instructors, according to a press release.

“A Shea Center on-site team assured that the 30 horses in its care would be appropriately fed and exercised daily to keep them fit for returning to client rider lessons,” the press release said. “In the

The Ecology Center Launches Campaign to Hire Furloughed Restaurant Workers

Shea Center staff are sending out inspirational postcards to boost spirits during the coronavirus pandemic. Photo: Courtesy of The Shea Center

wake of Governor Newsom’s orders, The Shea Center staff members immediately began working virtually from their home offices. Since then, virtual meetings have been held daily and are becoming comfortable and effective.”

Staff also created and is sending out inspirational postcards.

“We are learning and know that what we are doing now will forever alter—in the best sense—our ability to serve those with

special needs who come to us for help,” Executive Director Dana Butler-Moburg said.

Breakthrough SJC Raises Money for Family Emergency Fund Breakthrough San Juan Capistrano had raised $95,245 as of press time to help families impacted by the coronavirus

The Ecology Center has started a GoFundMe campaign to hire four to six furloughed restaurant workers to work on their farm. The GoFundMe initiative has a $20,000 goal.

“The Ecology Center has a long history of working closely with restaurants that put our values to work every day,” the fundraiser description said. “In these challenging times, we are hoping to create opportunities for temporarily unemployed culinary workers to help grow and harvest food to share in the community.”

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

EYE ON RMV

NEWS & HAPPENINGS AT THE RANCH

Potential Cell Tower Activation Irks Rancho Mission Viejo Residents

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Rancho Mission Viejo officials are working with Verizon Wireless to temporarily activate a cell tower to facilitate communication during the coronavirus pandemic, an action that has angered some residents who were assured last year the tower would be relocated.

Mike Balsamo, Vice President of Government Relations for the Ranch, said the Verizon tower would only be temporarily activated for 4G technology. The Ranch will honor the commitment to dismantle the tower when the time is appropriate, Balsamo said. The cell tower is specifically in the Esencia community.

Residents expressed their frustrations with the tower in 2019 due to a number of issues, including proximity to homes and schools and resulting health concerns, and voiced similar concerns to The Capistrano Dispatch after the recent consideration to activate it.

“Given that Rancho Mission Viejo made a commitment to not turn the tower on at all in response to overwhelming community concern, they have now broken trust with our community,” resident Bob Viscount said.

Viscount lives about one-tenth of a mile from the tower and said the consideration for temporary activation is not based on facts “that could prove this decision to solve a challenge reported by an unknown number of community members.”

Sheila Timmons, who bought property at the Ranch as a retirement home and chose the community for the view and assurances there would be no building behind the property, said her husband is concerned about the health effects of having the tower so close—“literally across the street.”

“I am concerned about the huge impact on our view—for which we paid a premium, of course— and property values. No one wants to look at this out their backyard,” Timmons said. “I’m all for improved cell service, but with all the open land around this community that the master developer has access to, why do they pick a spot in the middle of a busy neighborhood?”

Residents in 2019 pointed to studies purporting to show potential health risks associated with living near cell towers, such as developing cancer from being exposed to the transmission of radiofrequency signals.

Balsamo said the 2019 group was a small minority opposed to 5G cell capability. The Ranch has been working with Verizon to relocate the tower to a more remote location, and the relocation is reportedly still a work in progress.

The Ranch wants to make sure they provide a proper level of broadband capability so people can stay in contact with family, work from home and attend online schooling, Balsamo said. Some residents have responded favorably to the idea of the tower being activated and how the tower aesthetically fits in with the community, Balsamo said.

“Some people like it,” Balsamo said. “Other people have a different perspective.”

Larry Ryan, who lives in South Mission Viejo and has family members who live in Rancho Mission Viejo in four different homes, said he is in favor of a temporary activation because it enhances communication. Ryan said cell towers are sprinkled throughout every community.

“To hinder or create barricades for something as basic and effective as cell phone service is irresponsible, particularly in this current situation,” Ryan said.

A potential temporary activation of a cell tower in Rancho Mission Viejo has upset some residents. Photo: File The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

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thecapistranodispatch.com

WELCOME TO THE GREEN ISSUE

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

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

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

As we travel less and limit our

Not Blowing Smoke Your Guide to Smog Tests

By Collin Breaux

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Surfrider Foundation Defending the Seas for More Than 35 Years

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

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

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

As a result of the e orts led by the small

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

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

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

San Diego County.

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

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

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

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

Nelson notes that a large amount of the

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE FRUITS OF LABOR

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

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

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

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

After si years, Waters was allotted her first plot.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

While Planting a Seed, They’re Sharing the Love

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

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

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

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

How did that morph into San Clemente Urban Farms?

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

How do Tower Gardens work?

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

You can’t get fresher produce anywhere.

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

We are blessed to have been given space

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

Earth Day Events

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

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

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

“We moved to San Clemente in January, 1997.

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

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

Who supports you?

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

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

Who are your board members?

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

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

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

-

There is no better way to feed your

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

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

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

Seriously, pennies.

What do you see as the farm’s future?

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

Can you handle that?

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

Learn more by visiting sanclementeurbanfarms.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boys & Girls Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We put them all to really good use.”

CNPA AWARDS

SOAPBOX 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 thecapistranodispatch.com

HOW TO REACH US C I T Y E D I TO R Collin Breaux • 949.388.7700, x109 cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

Advertising Sales (SJC) Debra Wells

EDITORIAL

ART + DESIGN

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch Collin Breaux

Art Director Jasmine Smith

Senior City Editor, DP Times Lillian Boyd City Editor, SC Times Shawn Raymundo Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh Columnist Fred Swegles Special Projects Editor Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes

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

The Capistrano Dispatch, Vol. 18, Issue 7. 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.

F O L L O W T H E C A P O D I S PATC H

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The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES PRINT

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Celebrations in the Midst of Uncertainty

BY NORB GARRETT, OWNER AND PUBLISHER OF PICKET FENCE MEDIA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4TH

PROFILE STORY

BY FRED SWEGLES

P L AC E

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

4TH P L AC E

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

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

2ND P L AC E

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

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

2ND

GENERAL EXCELLENCE SC TIMES STAFF

P L AC E

sanclementetimes.com

2ND

BREAKING NEWS

BY ZACH CAVANAGH

P L AC E

“Allegations of Racial Slurs

by Fans at San ClementeLincoln Football Game Incite Investigations”

4TH

BREAKING NEWS

BY ZACH CAVANAGH

P L AC E

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

3RD P L AC E

COVERAGE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

BY LILLIAN BOYD, ADAM GILLES, SHAWN RAYMUNDO

“Allegations Disrupt Party Unity”

2ND P L AC E

FRONT PAGE LAYOUT & DESIGN CHELSIE REX, LILLIAN BOYD

May 24, Aug. 9, Dec. 27

5TH

SPECIAL SPORTS SECTION ZACH CAVANAGH, JASMINE SMITH

P L AC E

Dolphin Football Preview

Norb Garrett Owner and Publisher of Picket Fence Media Page 17

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH D I G I TA L

5TH P L AC E

LAND-USE REPORTING

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

“City to Negotiate Plans for Glamping” thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

Letters to the Editor APPRECIATION FOR SAN JUAN —CATHY PECHSTEDT, San Juan Capistrano I read Rich Heimann’s letter in the Feb. 28-March 12 issue, and I realize I’ve waited too long to show my appreciation to San Juan Capistrano.

It’s down to the tiny details that my husband and I discover daily about this place. From the beauty along the bike trails we ride, to the mission bells we can sometimes hear in the distance from our home, to the often turquoise waters at Doheny Beach. We watch wildlife as we hike the trails, and we might hear a horse whinny or a rooster crow nearby. We can meander Los Rios and see folks ride by on horseback.

As we approach San Juan Creek Road and La Novia and look north, we are stunned at the view of our hills. That corner is so rare and is set aside. The whole “California’s past” feel of the place is preserved like nowhere else! We have found a welcoming community—a true home.

We’ve heard that San Juan has had a tumultuous political past. Not having lived through it, I can only applaud the locals for their passion and foresight in voting for The Ecology Center, the Hillside Buffer, Open Space initiatives, and historic preservation victories. The previous administrations that pushed for the implementation of those desires are to be applauded. In the current climate where development is favored over all else, it is stunning to be in a place where they seem to have gotten it (mostly) right.

As we hurtle toward the future, it’s reassuring to know that San Juan will come along, too . . . just at a more measured pace. More considered.

Is it perfect here? No. Challenges lie ahead. I’m sure that the citizens of San Juan will attend to them all in turn. The passion they (we) have for this town will find a way through and make it even better!

Meanwhile, if you’re coming home to San Juan at night on the I-5, pay attention as you leave Mission Viejo. Those bright lights as far as you can see . . . as you round the bend, look! It’s dark.

It’s very dark here at night . . . unless there’s a game on at the high school. It’s as if you’re driving into . . . California’s past.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This letter was written before the coronavirus-induced shutdown.

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF KINOSHITA FARMS —NANCY FERRUZZO, San Juan Capistrano I was extremely disappointed with Evan Marks’ evasive response to the opinion piece submitted by former Mayor Carolyn Nash in the March 13-26 issue. The major portion of his response delineates the previous activities of The Ecology Center, which are not pertinent to the concerns expressed by Ms. Nash, as her objections are not to the existing activities, but to the proposed development. Two-thirds of the way through the response, Mr. Marks very briefly addresses the proposal, but incredibly states that new proposed structures will take up no more than 1% of the total farmland. It would be interesting to know how he arrived at that figure, as I have seen the proposal and cannot imagine how he could have calculated The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

GUEST OPINION: A Letter from John Alpay, SJC Chamber of Commerce Chairman

SJC Chamber of Commerce’s Commitment to Community We are living through unique and challenging economic times, thanks to COVID-19. Local businesses are struggling, with many wondering how they will remain viable as a going concern. Uncertainty and stress abound. But in a continuing effort to advocate and support local businesses, the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce remains hard at work. Please email us at info@sanjuanchamber.com to be included in our email distribution list.

The Chamber is in direct contact with the Small Business Administration, US Chamber of Commerce, US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and other organizations, receiving regular updates on business assistance programs and their changing requirements. We have increased our membership outreach to keep members informed of these programs, including the Federal Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loan, as well as California’s Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program.

We are also utilizing all existing relationships at all levels of business and government to support our business community.

Last week, we assisted a local bank in connecting them with the Small Business Administration to secure authorized lender status for Federal assistance programs.

And taking things one step further, active Chamber members have supported our community in other ways. The Chamber partnered with other local organizations and concerned citizens to create what is

it. In addition, he seems to think that leaving all of the new parking lots unpaved somehow makes the loss of crops more palatable.

In any case, if The Capistrano Dispatch wishes to be viewed as a valid journalistic enterprise, then I suggest that for the benefit of your readers, you print a map of the parcel as it currently exists, with an overlay of the parcel with the proposed development.

In my 40 years as a resident of San Juan Capistrano, I have watched with dismay as commercial development has been allowed to take over every bit of “open space.” Ms. Nash is correct that the people of this city agreed to pay their tax dollars to purchase the farm so that it would remain as row crops—not restaurants, art studios, commissaries, camping facilities or a school. While these may be otherwise admirable activities, they should not usurp the open farmland that our citizens agreed to purchase in 1990.

SONGS ATTEMPTS TO MISLEAD THE PUBLIC —PAUL BLANCH, West Hartford, Connecticut I write this as an expert on nuclear plant

now known as the Crisis Kitchen Coalition. Initially serving a thousand meals per weekend, the Coalition is now serving 7,500 meals per weekend to assist those in need.

These selfless acts show the nature and purpose of the Chamber: to not only serve local businesses but the community at large. It is in this spirit that the Chamber has supported not only its membership, but any business needing assistance.

To emphasize the point and exhibit the Chamber’s commitment, we are immediately suspending all billing and collection GUEST OPINION efforts for 2020 memBy SJC Chamber bership dues. In addiChairman, John Alpay tion, any non-member businesses seeking access to our communications and resources can now join the Chamber for 2020 with no upfront cost.

For any non-member businesses that wish to join or simply want some help, please email info@sanjuanchamber.com or call 949.493.4700. We are here to serve, and no one will be denied or turned away.

John Alpay is the Chairman of the Board for the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce. 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.

radiation monitoring being part of the American Nuclear Society dictating requirements for nuclear plant radiation monitoring. I was also an expert witness after Three Mile Island (TMI) and a member of the post TMI NRC group for accident monitoring.

Your recent article titled “SONGS Representatives Explain Radiation Monitoring” should have read “SONGS attempts to mislead the public.”

The only concern during and after decommissioning is a radioactive release from either the Spent Fuel Pool or the Holtec canisters, which have been publicly documented as defective.

Properly engineered air radiation is the only means to detect a leak, not a monitor designed to only detect background radiation. Edison needs a monitor to detect the primary isotope of concern; Cesium-137.

The monitor depicted in the Edison photo appears to be aimed skyward, and unless a catastrophic canister accident occurs, these monitors will detect nothing! When there is a release, it will probably not be detected by these monitors, only seeing cosmic radiation from the sky.

These monitors are solely meant to provide a warm feeling of protecting the public when, in

Page 18

fact, they are incapable of detecting any leakage from the Spent Fuel Pool or Holtec canisters.

Mark Lewis stated: “I’ve been working here for 38 years, and my lifetime occupational radiation exposure at each millirem has been carefully counted throughout my career. My number is 1,004.” So what?

I have been in the industry for 55 years. My number is more than 5,000. So what?

I am happy to live on the East Coast, 2500 miles from the devious PR from Edison and potential radiation from San Onofre.

THE GREEN NEW DEAL AND BRIAN MARYOTT —SAL SCARANTINO, San Juan Capistrano In response to the criticism in the March 13-26 opinion section of The Capistrano Dispatch relating to Brian Maryott’s discussion of the Green New Deal, I am compelled to follow up with an opinion letter of my own.

The critic claims the Green New Deal does not mention cutting the military budget at all and Brian was not informed on the topic. The bill failed in the Senate.

While the casual observer may consider the Green New Deal simply a congressional bill, it is far more detailed than that. The stated goals of the Green New Deal may be found at gp.org on the Green Party website.

Paragraph 8, line 1: “We will cut military spending by at least half” is a critical goal of the authors of the Green New Deal. That goal, as stated, would make the congressional bill seem far more absurd than it already does, so it was left out of the document.

I am reminded of the many “teaching moments” I have had with my children relating to political issues and climate issues. They are always advised to check and cross-check a multitude of sources, both pro and con, on any topic that may interest them, and, before debating that topic with anyone, use the common sense their creator granted them to filter out the hyperbole. History being the best indicator of concept viability. Many of the most popular conclusions today turn out to be completely nonsensical when analyzed from that perspective.

We live in an era where many folks block information they don’t agree with for the sake of their deeply held ideals. When they are given opposing information, they claim it is “conspiracy theory” regardless of the veracity of its source. This tactic permeates all intelligence levels.

I thank Brian Maryott for holding the line against extremist positions.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Language referenced in this letter refers to a version of the Green New Deal on the Green Party website. The language in the legislation introduced by Rep. Alexandria OcasioCortez is different.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning. The Capistrano Dispatch reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published. thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

FAST FOOD

Rancho Capistrano Winery

McDonald’s

(Wine purchases only) 26755 Verdugo St 949.481.6682 ranchocapwinery.com

31822 Del Obispo Ave 949.493.9357 mcdonalds.com

Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria

Del Taco 31780 Del Obispo St 949.487.1811 deltaco.com

List of Area Restaurants Open for Take-Out, Delivery During Coronavirus Shutdown

Taco Bell 31771 Del Obispo St 949.661.7118 tacobell.com

Carl’s Jr 31852 Del Obispo St 949.493.9661 carlsjr.com

A’s Burgers 28698 Camino Capistrano 949.364.2099 asburgersrestaurant.com

The COVID-19 pandemic has canceled events and forced restaurants to close dine-in service, but some local eateries are still offering take-out and delivery options.

The Capistrano Dispatch has compiled a list of such restaurants, based on information from the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce. This list may not be comprehensive and the information is subject to change.

If you’d like to include your restaurant, email cbreaux@picketfencemedia.com. CD

Swallow’s Inn (Tacos only, cash only) 31786 Camino Capistrano call to order 949.493.3188

Sundried Tomato 31781 Camino Capistrano 949.661.1167 sundriedtomatobistro.com

Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar 27211 Ortega Hwy, Suite C 949.661.8466 tanninsrestaurant.com

In-N-Out Burger 28782 Camino Capistrano 800.786.1000 in-n-out.com

31781 Camino Capistrano, Suite 201 949.429.3599 selmaspizza.com

El Campeon

Marie Callender’s

RESTAURA NTS

31921 Camino Capistrano, #15 949.489.4078 elcampeoninc.com

31791 Del Obispo St 949.661.5977 mariecallenders.com

Bad to the Bone

El Coyotito

Mollie’s Famous Cafe

31401 Camino Capistrano #3 949.542.4052 taquerosmexicanfood.com

31738 Rancho Viejo Rd 949.218.0227 badtothebone-bbq.com

32141 Alipaz Street, Suite B 949.496.9439 elcoyotitomexicanrestaurant.com

32033 Camino Capistrano 949.240.9261

Thai Juan On

NewStart Nutrition

Ciao Pasta

El Maquey

31661 Camino Capistrano 949.496.5002 ciaopasta.net

31481 Camino Capistrano 949.493.8681 elmagueysjc.com

32292 Camino Capistrano, Suite B 949.606.2981 newstartforme.com

Crivello’s

Five Vines

NYC Café

31882 Del Obispo St 949.443.0423 crivellositalianbistro.com

31761 Camino Capistrano, Unit 11 949.800.9145 fivevineswinebar.com

31888 Plaza Dr, C-3 949.234.0071 pizzaamorecafe.com

Délice Breton

Flame Broiler

OC Pizza

31451 Rancho Viejo Rd, Suite 10, 949.503.1577 delicebreton.com

31878 Del Obispo St, 949.429.7241 flamebroilerusa.com

32341 Camino Capistrano 949.429.8888 ocpizzasanjuan.com

El Adobe

L’Hirondelle

PUBlic 74

31891 Camino Capistrano 949.493.1163 eladobecapistrano.com

31631 Camino Capistrano 949.661.0425 lhirondellesjc.com

27211 Ortega Hwy 949.481.2727 publicrestaurants.com

The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

Page 19

Taqueros Mexican Restaurant

31878 Del Obispo St, Suite 109 949.234.0332 thaijuanon.com

The BrewHouse 31896 Plaza Dr., Suite D3 949.481.6181 thebrewhousesjc.com

The Olives Branch 31105 Rancho Viejo Rd, Suite C13 949.373.5633

Wow Poki 32118 Paseo Adelanto, Suite A4 949.661.3354 wowpokitogo.com

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at thecapistranodispatch.com GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@thecapistranodispatch.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

Submit your info online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email debra@wellsadsolutions.com

Do you want to reach 24,150+ people in the San Juan + Rancho Mission Viejo area?

Then you need to be in the Capistrano Dispatch.

Call us today!

Contact Debra Wells at 949.388.7700 ext. 104 or debra@wellsadsolutions.com The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

Page 20

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SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

The History of Gertrude Rios and the Rios Olive Tree

S

o much for March/April being a very busy time in San Juan Capistrano. We have changed March Madness for Spring Sadness as we all try to get through the coronavirus pandemic. All meetings, events, celebrations and get-togethers are on hold as we try to survive this devastating illness. We can only hope that all of our efforts work and that that we are all safe.

But we are resilient, and during the Passover/Easter season, we can look back on the history of our community that has survived.

One hundred years ago, in 1920, Mission San Juan Capistrano was the center of life in San Juan Capistrano. Gertrude Rios, grandmother of current Rios Adobe owner Stephen Rios, was a very active participant at the Mission. In her front yard of the Rios MOMENTS Adobe, she raised flowers IN TIME specifically to decorate

By Jan Siegel the altar in Serra Chapel.

She also washed all of the priests’ vestments by hand and washed and ironed the altar cloths used for Mass. Gertrude Rios went to church for Mass three times a day: at 6:00 a.m., at 10 a.m. and to evening rosary.

Fr. St. John O’Sullivan was the assigned priest at the Mission in 1920. But many priests from the Los Angeles dioceses, to which the Mission belonged, would visit and became very familiar with Gertrude Rios and her devotion to the church.

Before he retired, one elderly priest went to visit the Pope in Rome, and he decided to go to the Holy Land. When

he was climbing the Mount of Olives, he thought of Gertrude Rios and all that she was doing for the church. He wanted to bring her back a souvenir, so he purchased a twig from the Mount of Olives, put it in his suitcase and brought it back to San Juan Capistrano. “Mrs. Rios could not have been more pleased,” said her son, Dan, the current owners’ father. She was so pleased that she planted the small twig right in the middle of her front yard.

The twig grew, and today the olive tree is fully grown, and everyone who walks by the Rios Adobe can see it. The tree is not only a family memory but a community reminder of a very special woman who lived in our town 100 years ago.

The Mount of Olives brings special meaning to these troubled times. In Biblical times, in King David’s day, the summit of the Mount of Olives was a place where “God worshipped.” It is also the place where Jesus ascended into heaven. As we celebrate Passover and Easter without the usual big family gatherings that we are used to, spend a “Moment in Time” and stroll down Los Rios Street, stop and notice the olive tree in the Rios front yard and remember a place on Earth that can bring people together and a place in San Juan Capistrano that can bring a community together.

Jan Siegel was a 33-year resident of San Juan Capistrano and now resides in the neighboring town of Rancho Mission Viejo. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission for 13 years, has been a volunteer guide for the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library’s architectural walking tour for 26 years and is currently the museum curator for the San Juan Cap-

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.

istrano Historical Society. She was named Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in 2005, Volunteer of the Year in 2011 and was inducted into the city’s Wall of Recognition in 2007. CD

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

BY MYLES MELLOR

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

L

The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

FROM THE ARCHIVES Children riding a pony, reportedly in 1936.

Sudoku

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

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

Photo: Courtesy of Romero Olivares, Marie Teeter and OC Public Libraries

Solution:

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

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 Page 21

thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

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

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

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

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

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

The Capistrano Dispatch April 10-23, 2020

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

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

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

“In arriving at this decision, I know that my colleagues and I thought about our student-athletes first, as in everything we do and our entire organization does, each and every day,” CIF-Southern Section commissioner Rob Wigod said in a statement.

“These are unprecedented times for all of us and the most difficult decision I have faced in my 20 years working for the CIF-Southern Section office.”

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

“It is my sincere hope that there will be a renewed appreciation for high school athletic programs and how truly special they are,” Wigod said. “We now have the chance to reset our priorities and can utilize this opportunity to help us move forward in a positive way.”

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

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

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

“It’s not ideal, that’s for sure,” San Juan Hills football coach and athletic director Rob Frith said. “It’s really sad. It’s definitely sad for those seniors. Our number one priority is to keep kids and the community safe. These decisions are done for safety.”

Page 22

While not a spring sports coach himself, Frith has had to adjust the offseason plan for the reigning CIF-SS champion Stallions football team. Spring football was scheduled to start the first week of May, which would have been the first week back on campus for San Juan Hills.

With those in-person workouts off the table, Frith has shifted to distance learning as well.

“We’ve had our junior and senior meetings through video chat,” Frith said. “Using Google Classroom, we send workouts every day.

We’re giving kids resources to be prepared.

All the playbooks are online. We’re teaching football like everything else at school.”

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

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

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