July 10, 2020

Reata Glen Certified as ‘Great Place to Work’ PAGE 7

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

JULY 10–23, 2020 • VOLUME 18, ISSUE 13

Homelessness Crisis Continues Agencies, Officials Outline How They’re Helping During COVID-19 Pandemic E Y E O N S J C / PAG E 6

A tent is set up at Historic Town Center Park in San Juan Capistrano, one place in Orange County where homeless people gather. Photo: Collin Breaux

City Council Candidates Emerge EYE ON SJC/PAGE 5

Drive-In Movie Night at Riding Park GETTING OUT/PAGE 11

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From the Archives: San Juan Creek SJC LIVING/PAGE 12

The Capistrano Dispatch June 26-July 9, 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 OC Representatives Question Perceived Testing Disparities THE LATEST: Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) and other Orange County Representatives are continuing to ask the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) for more information regarding perceived COVID-19 testing disparities between Orange County and other counties.

In a June 26 letter to OCHCA and the Orange County Board of Supervisors, the Representatives said they remain “concerned that our constituents continue to face barriers to testing, particularly in traditionally underserved communities.” The Orange County Congressional Delegation requested information from the OCHCA regarding the county’s low COVID-19 testing volume in comparison with other counties in May, and received both a briefing and a written response to their inquiries.

Levin, whose district includes San Juan Capistrano, told The Capistrano Dispatch that the issue came to his attention because he regularly gets testing numbers from Orange County and San Diego County, both of which he serves. Orange County appeared to have less testing than San Diego County.

Testing and contact tracing are needed so reopening can be safely facilitated, Levin said.

“We need a lot more,” Levin said. “I’m very hopeful the county will see the problem for what it is.”

Though Representatives heard claims there was not high demand for tests, a survey of constituents reportedly found that of those who wanted a test, 62.2% were not able to get one because they were denied or did not know how to proceed. That survey result prompted the June letter.

“We urge all parties to acknowledge this gap in testing and work to increase testing utilization and improve communication with the public,” the June letter said. “We appreciate the County’s recent efforts to use funding provided by the federal government through the bipartisan CARES Act to launch a community outreach and advertising initiative to increase awareness of free COVID-19 testing options, but we believe that additional steps are necessary to ensure that all residents can conveniently access no-cost testing in Orange County.”

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

The letter also said requested testing data broken down by labs was not provided.

OCHCA did not have a statement to provide when reached for comment. A representative for the Board of Supervisors had not responded to requests for comment by press time.

A recent news story by the Orange County Register said the county “erroneously inflated its COVID-19 testing numbers for more than a month—logging 30,000 more tests than it should have (reported)—before the error was discovered and fixed” and that the county has counted coronavirus testing in a way “some consider misleading, reporting total tests performed, but not how many individuals were tested.” (Some people are tested multiple times.)

During a press conference on Thursday, July 2, OCHCA Agency Director and acting County Health Officer Clayton Chau said a state reporting system had mistakenly added COVID-19 serology tests as auto-processed tests in April.

Cho said his team had captured the serology test results as part of their COVID-19 test results—“an error that leadership became aware of around June 3.” The removal of serology tests from the total count was formally implemented on June 26.

Some reopening measures have recently been rolled back by state and county officials because of surging cases in the state. Recently, the number of cases has gradually increased in Orange County.

People can register for a COVID-19 test at lhi.care/covidtesting and find information on testing and testing sites at ochealthinfo.com/covidtest.—Collin Breaux

Gov. Newsom Announces Renewed Restrictions Amid Rise in Coronavirus Cases THE LATEST: Gov. Gavin Newsom tightened up restrictions amid the latest surge of coronavirus cases and hospitalizations, ordering a handful of business sectors in several counties to close indoor operations on Wednesday, July 1.

Impacted sectors included restaurants, wineries, movie theaters, family entertainment centers, zoos, museums, and card rooms. Any of these businesses can, however, still operate outdoors.

The restriction applies to a total of 19 counties, including Orange County, and will remain in place for at least three weeks.

The announcement served as a major step backward in the state’s reopening process, which initially began in early May. On June 12, retail stores, dine-in restaurants, bars, churches, hair and nail salons, gyms and other businesses had been permitted to reopen again with

Michael Yeboah, a nursing supervisor for MemorialCare, consults with a prospective patient who’s hoping to get tested for the coronavirus at a new mobile testing center set up at the site of the former hospital in San Clemente on Monday, April 13. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

modifications.

Newsom’s Office of Emergency Services also launched strike teams to help enforce the order. They will work with local health officials to target businesses that aren’t complying, OES Director Mark Ghilarducci said.

Newsom attributed the recent spread of COVID-19 to private gatherings and urged people to stay socially distanced and wear masks when interacting with other people outside their household.

Newsom’s direction followed Orange County’s announcement ordering the close of bars, breweries and pubs, which came a day after OC Board Supervisor and Chairperson Michelle Steel delivered a stark warning that the recent closure of bars countywide was due to the recent surge, which has resulted in a record number of cases in Orange County.

According to the announcement from the Orange County Health Care Agency, all bars, pubs, breweries, and brewpubs— establishments that don’t offer sit-down, dine-in meals—in Orange County were ordered to close effective on Thursday, July 2.

There are some exemptions to the new order, as bars and breweries that work with food service vendors can continue to operate as long as the vendor adheres to the state’s guidance and the “establishment sells alcohol only in the same transaction as a meal.”

The South Orange County cities of San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano recently have seen significant increases in cases.

Though acknowledging the recent rise in cases, Steel said those new cases represented increased testing and the collection of specimens from more than two weeks ago.

“The County has continued to closely

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monitor cases on a daily basis,” Steel said in her release. “While the report today—and the recent increased rate of infections—is concerning, the County and our local health system continue to be prepared to respond to protect the health and safety of our residents.”—Shawn Raymundo and Lillian Boyd

Council Moves Ahead on Housing Development Amid Community Criticism THE LATEST: Amid criticism from residents over a housing development in the works, the San Juan Capistrano City Council approved steps to move forward on the project during a council meeting on Tuesday, July 7.

The proposed housing development is called The Farm and will be located near Armstrong Garden Center, Kinoshita Elementary School, and Mountain View Church. The official address is 32382 Del Obispo Street, and the site is currently vacant property.

Lennar Homes is the applicant for The Farm, which would be a gated, 169-lot, single-family detached, residential home subdivision on 35 acres. The subdivision would also have a park, trail, recreation facility, and private roads. There will be a maximum of 180 residential units.

Residents who spoke up in person at the meeting, and others through written correspondence with city officials, took issue with several aspects of the planned development, including how it could cause more traffic, the underwhelming design of the homes, and overdevelopment.

Sue Turner said she was disappointed with the home designs.

(Cont. on page 4) thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) “This is one of the last historical properties being developed in our town. Can we not do better?” Turner said. “I feel we’re accepting mediocrity. I just don’t see anything special in the design of these homes that reflects the historic nature of our city.”

Some people who live in Rancho Alipaz, a nearby mobile home park, also spoke against The Farm, saying they think the homes could enable residents to look into their homes at Rancho Alipaz. Developers for The Farm have met with Rancho Alipaz residents to hear about concerns. Lennar Homes and city officials came upon the compromise of filling in gaps with trees, as needed to address privacy concerns, pending approval from the property owner of Rancho Alipaz.

Andrew Han, director of forward planning for Lennar Homes, addressed some of the concerns. Han said traffic impacts have been analyzed and would not exceed previously approved plans. Han also said many people are working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic, and parents would be able to walk kids to school given the subdivision’s proximity to nearby campuses.

Han also addressed privacy concerns from Rancho Alipaz residents, saying Lennar Homes has been “very transparent from the beginning,” with multiple meetings and communications with the residents of Rancho Alipaz. Han also mentioned trees on the Rancho Alipaz side.

“The trees block the line of sight for someone sitting on the second floor of the homes on our side looking into the mobile home park,” Han said. “There’s a visual barrier. That issue, for the most part, resolves itself.”

Council members voted, 4-0-1, to approve the tentative tract map and addendum to the Mitigated Negative Declaration, which analyzes the project’s environmental impacts pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act. Councilmembers John Taylor, Derek Reeve, Brian Maryott, and Sergio Farias voted yes. Mayor Troy Bourne recused himself from the discussion and the vote, because he is personally familiar with the developers.

Reeve said they were in the final planning stage of the project and finishing touch-ups during the July 7 meeting. The project has been in the works for years.

Maryott said the designs presented were underwhelming, but the economic factor is what’s important. The modest size of the amenities is underwhelming considering the number of proposed households, Maryott said.

“There’s nothing breathtaking about this,” Maryott said. “But if the homes get sold, that’s what matters.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Grading work is expected to start in late fall, and vertical construction in summer of next year. The project could take about four years to complete.

—CB The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

add decades to any sentence he receives, if convicted.

WHAT’S NEXT: A jury trial has been scheduled for June 1, 2021, at the Ronald Reagan Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Santa Ana. The assigned bench officer is U.S. District Judge David O. Carter.—LB

Student-Founded Nonprofit Helps People During COVID-19 Pandemic

Developers are looking to build a gated subdivision called The Farm along Del Obispo Street. Some San Juan Capistrano residents have objected to the project for various reasons, including a dislike of the home designs. Photo: Collin Breaux

San Juan Capistrano Woman Charged in Lobster Fishing Trip Murder THE LATEST: A San Juan Capistrano woman faces charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in the 2019 slaying of a man whose body was found floating in the Pacific Ocean with gunshot and blunt force trauma wounds.

Sheila Marie Ritze, 40, of San Juan Capistrano, is the registered owner of the boat used to lure the victim to go on an overnight lobster fishing trip last October.

Ritze had been previously accused of being an accessory after the fact—a charge not alleged in the superseding indictment.

Co-defendant and alleged shooter Hoang Xuan Le was previously indicted on a charge of first-degree murder within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States.

The grand jury on Wednesday, June 24, returned a 10-count superseding indictment that adds a conspiracy count, which alleges that the two defendants plotted and were working together when the victim was lured onto a boat in Dana Point Harbor last fall with promises of an overnight lobster fishing trip. The body of the victim—who is identified in the indictment only as “T.D.”—was recovered from the Pacific Ocean several miles northwest of Oceanside on October 16, 2019.

The superseding indictment now alleges that Le and Ritze conspired to commit the murder. The conspiracy count alleges that, on October 15, Le shot T.D. and threw the victim overboard.

Le and Ritze, who pleaded not guilty earlier this year to charges in the original three-count indictment, are currently being held in federal custody without bond.

Ritze waived an appearance at a scheduled July 6 arraignment.

In addition to the three charges related to the murder, the superseding indictment adds a series of narcotics charges against Le related to drug deals with an undercover operative during the investigation into the slaying. Le allegedly distributed cocaine on two occasions and distributed methamphetamine in two transactions.

The superseding indictment further charges Le with possessing methamphetamine and two firearms—a shotgun and an AR-15-type “ghost gun”—when he was arrested.

The final count in the indictment charges Ritze with lying to federal investigators during an interview after she was arrested. The indictment specifically alleges that Ritze falsely stated, among other things, that she had never met the victim prior to the October 15 boat trip.

The Capistrano Dispatch previously reported that Ritze is linked by information showing her phone was allegedly in the location of the harbor at the times the boat left and returned, and by surveillance tapes made at Dana Point Harbor showing three individuals—believed to be Ritze, Le and the victim—when the boat was launched, but showing only Ritze and Le when the boat returned hours later.

Le and Ritze were arrested on December 19 after prosecutors filed a criminal complaint in the case being investigated by the FBI and the Coast Guard Investigative Service.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

If convicted, the first-degree murder charge against Le and Ritze carries a mandatory sentence of life without parole in federal prison. The conspiracy charge carries a maximum sentence of life without parole, as does the charge of discharging a firearm in furtherance of and during and in relation to a crime of violence. The narcotics-related offenses against Le could

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THE LATEST: Rising senior students at JSerra Catholic High School in San Juan Capistrano founded a nonprofit organization called Community Aid & Relief (CARE) Initiative in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Qiwen (Mellie) Wang, Emily Bush, and Matthew Marandola started the CARE Initiative and said it couldn’t have happened without the support from their other initial volunteers.

“For the past three months, we have been operating with the help of around 50 high school student volunteers to provide free grocery delivery services to Orange County residents who are considered at-risk and advised not to leave their homes,” Bush said. “We have also worked on projects including putting together donation packages with sanitary and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) items to donate to low-income communities and local nonprofits.”

So far, they have been able to serve more than 100 households in Orange County and expanded through partnerships with other organizations, including 211 Orange County, Fullerton Free, and Diamond Bar Sister City.

Wang said she sent free food to a highrisk, low-income senior citizen who lives alone and whose son died of COVID-19.

“I was sad to see his sorrow and loneliness, but meanwhile, he was grateful for our service and touched by what we’ve been doing for our community,” Wang said. “I felt a strong sense of satisfaction from actually getting to know people in critical need and helping them to the best of my ability.”

Marandola recalled his experiences delivering items for a deaf woman and her family.

“I had been learning sign language for about five years, and I really wanted to be able to form a more personal connection with this family and try to communicate with her using sign language when I made my delivery,” Marandola said. “It was a great learning experience for me, and I think it brightened up her day, too. It also reminded me of the importance of really taking time to talk to and assist people with disabilities, as they are not only in high-risk conditions, but may also have problems expressing their needs accurately.”

Visit carei2020.com for more information.—CB thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

Community NEWS BITES City Council Meetings Candidates Emerge COMPILED BY STAFF

TUESDAY, JULY 14

Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m. The city’s Planning Commission will hold a meeting. Face masks or coverings are required of attendees, and social distancing and other pandemic health guidelines will be in place. The meeting can be viewed on the city website for those who can’t attend in person. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.

Because I Love You (BILY) 6:30-8:30 p.m. The organization Because I Love You (BILY), which helps parents navigate through parenting challenges, will conduct its weekly meeting via video conference. For instructions on how to participate, email bilysanclemente@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, JULY 17 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 information.

TUESDAY, JULY 21 City Council Meeting 5 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano City Council will hold a meeting. Face masks or coverings are required of attendees, and social distancing and other pandemic health guidelines will be in place. The meeting can be viewed on the city website for those who can’t attend in person. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.

THURSDAY, JULY 23 Design Review Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. The city’s Design Review Committee will have a meeting. Face masks or coverings are required of attendees, and social distancing and other pandemic health guidelines will be in place. The meeting can be viewed on the city website for those who can’t attend in person. City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, JULY 24 The next issue of The Capistrano Dispatch publishes.

Editor’s note: This information is subject to change as pandemic conditions continue.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

Candidates for the San Juan Capistrano City Council elections this fall have emerged as the filing period opens next week.

John Alpay announced his candidacy for the District 5 seat in a July 3 press release.

Alpay is the Chairman of the Board for the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce, and he has previously served on the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees.

Howard Hart previously announced his run for the District 5 seat during a San Juan Capistrano Coffee Chat this past January. Hart is on the city’s Planning Commission and is a military veteran.

The filing period to run for SJC City Council (Districts 1 and 5) opens on Monday, July 13, and ends on Friday, August 7, according to a press release from the city.

The deadline extends to Wednesday, August 12, if an incumbent is not running for re-election and does not file papers by the August 7 deadline. The General Municipal Election takes place on November 3.

Sergio Farias currently occupies the District 1 seat, and Brian L. Maryott occupies the District 5 seat. Maryott is currently running for Congressman Mike Levin’s spot in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Candidates must be registered voters and reside in either District 1 or District 5 in San Juan Capistrano. Nomination papers must be signed by no fewer than 20 or more than 30 registered voters residing in the district in which the candidate resides. Each candidate is required to file a Statement of Economic Interest disclosing investments and interests in real property when the nomination papers are returned for filing, the city’s press release said.

CUSD Board of Trustees Authorizes Layoffs of 88 Employees The Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees unanimously approved a layoff of 88 employees during a meeting on Wednesday, June 24.

CUSD officials said the decision was necessary, difficult, and not taken lightly.

“I’m aware—and our board is keenly aware—layoffs affect people and their families,” Superintendent Kirsten Vital said. “We don’t want to do this, but we have to do this.”

The layoffs will affect staff who handle behavioral and mental health services, as well as other positions. The layoffs are partly due to restructuring, in addition to funding concerns related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The San Juan Capistrano City Council District 5 seat, up for election this fall, has drawn some candidates. Photo: File

An agenda report said staff has “worked to create business efficiencies across the district to streamline and maximize the service to students and staff,” which includes considering “all known attrition that has occurred to date.”

Ways to streamline services reportedly have been identified by district and school site leaders.

“These decisions are incredibly difficult, as outlined in previous discussions,” said Tim Brooks, associate superintendent of human resource services.

The laid-off employees could be hired back if that becomes feasible, according to the district.

Students will still have access to behavioral and mental health services. Among members of the public who called in to the teleconference meeting to comment, some said the laid-off staff provided mental health assistance for students, some asked for the resolution authorizing the layoff be removed from the meeting agenda, and others alleged a lack of transparency and communication on the topic beforehand from CUSD. The board’s next scheduled meeting is July 15.

JSerra Student Raises Money for Second Harvest Rocky Looney, a rising senior student at JSerra Catholic High School, recently held a Father’s Day Car Show Fundraiser for Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County.

Rocky’s father, Scott Looney, said his son’s car show was a huge hit. More than 200 people attended, more than 50 cars were on display, and $3,796 was raised for Second Harvest.

“He has been concerned for those impacted by the pandemic here locally, and through his research, he realized Second Harvest was best suited to help,” Scott Looney said.

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The Looneys are longtime residents of San Juan Capistrano.

Majority of San Juan Capistrano Residents Have Responded to Census An overwhelming majority of San Juan Capistrano residents have responded to the 2020 Census, as of press time.

On Tuesday, July 7, San Juan had a 75.2% response rate, higher than the current state rate of 63.1%. So far, Orange County has a response rate of 70.3%, and the 49th Congressional District has a 68.4% response rate.

“The Census Bureau would like to extend our congratulations to the people of Orange County for their high response rate,” said Julie Lam, regional director of the U.S. Census Bureau. “Your response matters and will help your community get the accurate count it needs to secure federal funding for critical public services and political representation.”

The Census Bureau has adjusted operations to protect the health of the public and census workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, while ensuring an accurate count. More than half of American households—61.9% as of press time—had already responded to the census count.

Response rates by state, county and city can be viewed on the census website.

Online responses are preferred, though people can also contact a call center to be counted.

Census counts are used to determine funding allocations, as well as the schematics of political representation for areas on the state and federal level. More information can be found at 2020census.gov.

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

EYE ON SJC

Several items, including shoes, are laid out at Historic Town Center Park, where homeless people gather. County and city officials are taking steps to address homelessness. Photo: Collin Breaux

Organizations, Officials Address Solutions to Homelessness Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

O

rganizations and officials throughout Orange County are continuing to work on helping the homeless in the area.

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges in the homelessness crisis, whether it be new social distancing requirements at shelters or the subsequent economic crisis leaving open the possibility of homelessness increasing.

Homeless encampments are visible at Historic Town Center Park in San Juan Capistrano and in nearby areas. Resources are available to assist people with transitioning into housing.

Becks Heyhoe, the director for United to End Homelessness, an initiative of Orange County United Way that launched in 2018, said reasons for homelessness include struggling to find jobs with sustainable wages and lack of affordable housing, along with family issues such as domestic violence and divorce.

“There’s been a real movement of people who want to see solutions as it becomes more visible,” Heyhoe said.

Those solutions include creating more permanent housing and putting people in such. Heyhoe said while shelters are good and can be a stepping stone, they don’t permanently end homelessness.

United to End Homelessness has a WelcomeHomeOC landlord program, which they fully launched in March 2019 after

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

an earlier pilot program. The organization works with property owners on getting homeless people into homes, and can assist with matters such as security deposits and other costs that can be barriers.

“Without housing, you can’t really do anything else,” Heyhoe said.

The program can also help people who might have specific needs, such as a disabled person who could need a ground floor apartment.

United to End Homelessness is still assisting others during the ongoing health crisis, which Heyhoe said was a “real challenge” since housing authorities transitioned to remote operations.

“Despite that, we still have been able to house people,” Heyhoe said.

The support services United to End Homelessness provides vary based on a person’s needs—for instance, someone might need support for a few months if they’re economically disadvantaged, or more long-term support if they’re physically disabled and have been homeless for a long time.

United to End Homelessness also offers ongoing virtual education on homelessness, in which people can learn about statistics and best ways to help. Visit their website at unitedtoendhomelessness.org for more information on the education and their organization.

The 2019 Point In Time Count identified 6,860 people in Orange County experienc-

ing homelessness, including 2,899 people in shelters and transitional housing and 3,961 people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Sixty-two homeless individuals were counted in San Juan Capistrano. The next Point In Time count will be in January 2021 and is expected to provide updated numbers and demographic information for Orange County.

There has been no recorded 2020 Point In Time Count for Orange County, because they are only required every other year.

Jason Austin, director of the Office of Care Coordination for the Orange County Health Care Agency, said the issue of homelessness continues to be a priority for the county.

“The county continues to work on developing a responsive System of Care that addresses the needs of those experiencing homelessness and provides a safety net of supportive services and resources to those that are at-risk of homelessness,” Austin said. “In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the county is currently focused on providing resources and services that mitigate and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the homeless population.”

The county's COVID-19 Homelessness Response System encompasses three components: a Temporary Isolation Shelter for individuals who are sick or symptomatic for COVID-19; a Temporary Shelter for Vulnerable Populations, including asymptomatic individuals who are

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medically vulnerable and /or 65 years and older; and an Alternative Shelter System for individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness and asymptomatic.

“The first two components are part of the county’s implementation of the state initiative, Project Roomkey,” Austin said.

“Project Roomkey is designed to prevent and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by providing non-congregate shelter in hotels and motels for sick and medically vulnerable persons experiencing homelessness.”

On the city level in San Juan Capistrano, City Manager Ben Siegel said homelessness remains a challenging issue in town, just as it is in South Orange County and across the entire region.

“There is concern that the economic crisis resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic will push more people into homelessness, and we are closely monitoring conditions within our local community in order to make contact and provide resources to those who are especially vulnerable before they find themselves without adequate housing,” Siegel said.

San Juan Capistrano is taking numerous steps to address homelessness.

The city employs a full-time Orange County Sheriff’s Department deputy as the Homeless Liaison Officer, who is specially trained to work with the homeless population, including resource referral.

The city also contracts with Mercy House Living Centers, a nonprofit homeless services organization that administers the city’s homeless outreach program, provides diversion and prevention services, and provides rental assistance to homeless individuals in the city.

“Last year, the city council approved ‘The Groves’ project, an affordable residential development for seniors, located on city-owned land across from JSerra,” Siegel said. “That project will include 10 Permanent Supportive Housing units for seniors. Permanent Supportive Housing, or PSH, will serve individuals who have been homeless or are at greatest risk of becoming homeless, and offers long-term housing with 24/7 on-site services.”

City officials believe PSH is the most effective, long-term solution to addressing homelessness. The Groves project is expected to be under construction this year.

“Additionally, the city council approved an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement with Jamboree Housing that will allow both parties to explore the potential of a PSH project at the current City Hall site, at the terminus of Paseo Adelanto,” Siegel said. “The project concept would provide approximately 40 units and be integrated into a new Civic Center facility.”

Jamboree Housing and the county would work to identify eligible tenants who have a “high likelihood of success” under the project, with preference given to the local homeless population. The city and Jamboree are reportedly in active discussions and are currently analyzing project feasibility, including financing and constructability constraints. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON RMV

NEWS & HAPPENINGS AT THE RANCH

The Great Place to Work Institute has certified Reata Glen as just that—a great place to work, based on employee feedback. Photo: Collin Breaux

Reata Glen Certified as Great Place to Work

BY COLLIN BREAUX, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Reata Glen, a retirement community in Rancho Mission Viejo, has been certified by the Great Place to Work Institute based on the results of a recent employee survey.

The Great Place to Work Institute is an independent research and consulting firm. Certification for Reata Glen included a survey in April during the COVID-19 pandemic of more than 160 employees from all departments, job functions and levels of experience., according to a press release.

Cited factors included employee pride in Reata Glen’s impact on the community and feeling that their work was important, and feeling that their work has special meaning. Reata Glen reportedly had to meet the threshold in each category to become certified.

“Earning certification as a Great Place to Work is a testament to the incredibly hard work and dedication our employees bring to the job every day,” Reata Glen Executive Director Suzanne Nasraty said. “Certification is

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

difficult at any time, but the fact that Reata Glen was honored during the COVID-19 pandemic reflects the supportive culture we nurture as part of our core STAR values. The community was rated by 94 percent of the employees as a physically safe place to work. We are particularly proud of this achievement in light of the coronavirus.”

Dr. Jacquelyn Kung with Great Place to Work’s senior care affiliate, Activated Insights, said they applaud Reata Glen for seeking certification and releasing its employee feedback.

“These ratings measure Reata Glen’s capacity to earn the trust of its employees and create a great workplace for high performance,” Kung said. CD

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The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

GUEST OPINION: By Mechelle Lawrence-Adams

Mission San Juan Capistrano: A Worthy Field Trip Destination to Learn About History, Inclusion, and Moving Forward

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am writing to invite everyone to come see in person how Mission San Juan Capistrano, like history, continues to evolve. In the 21st century, the Mission is a place that celebrates both its Catholic tradition and its many chapters of change over the last 245 years.

Since 2003, we have shifted our site’s story/history-telling point of view. Over the past 17 years, that changed with the implementation of new preservation and museum programming, the advent of an advisory group comprised of scholars, Native Americans, and volunteers. This has been done while developing a closer relationship with Acjachemen of the area who come to the Mission San Juan Capistrano to demonstrate their basket weaving traditions and engage with appreciative students and guests from all over the world.

Today, the Mission celebrates its Native American history in a way that could not have happened 100 years ago.

As a historic museum and landmark that moves forward, we eliminated outdated dioramas and depictions. We have two Native Americans serve as bell ringers out of our roster of three. We give out free information to guests on how they can learn more about the California’s First People during their visit. We host an annual Day of Remembrance to publicly recognize the original builders and memorialize how, while attending Mass on December 8, 1812, forty baptized Native Americans perished in the earthquake that brought down the Great Stone Church. It took nearly 190 years to begin this memorial tradition, and it is the product of 21st century recognition of the native people in this landmark’s physical and historical context.

Wherever possible, we have strived to listen, learn, and grow. Teachers and parents asked us to improve our tours with regard to Native American history, so we strengthened our tour-guide training.

Our award-winning multi-language audio tours were crafted with this in mind, as well. Prior to COVID-19, we held lectures that talked about how Father Serra and the Native American community saw and interacted with one another. We looked to the historical record and provided new ways to learn. We stock our store with books that include various views about his-

Mechelle Lawrence-Adams. Photo: Courtesy

tory. We make sure to publicly appreciate the Mission San Juan Capistrano’s native builders. We proudly offer Native American history storytelling programming by acclaimed and award-winning Acjachemen educator Jacque Nunez.

We do all of this while still hosting an exhibit that teaches about Father Serra’s life and his founding of the Missions. We ring the bells daily in his honor (seven times at 9 a.m.) and teaching about his contributions as a founder of what would ultimately become the State of California.

And his statue may be seen on site in our historic Sala. Serra is a saint in the Catholic Church, and his history is intertwined with Native history.

Teaching history should not be an “either-or” proposition. Our inclusive efforts have been rooted in the value of doing the right thing long before this became a movement. This effort has not always been met with welcome or ease, but it has been worth doing.

The Foundation and staff are committed to honoring and celebrating our rich history, and specifically the builders of the Mission, the inclusion of women in history, and the concept of being an authentic place where meaningful conversations about history can occur. For example, along the way, we expanded our interpretation efforts to also include Ysidora Pico Forster’s role in the Forster family’s private ownership of the Mission. Up until the 21st century, the site’s museum favored talking solely about Don Juan

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Forster, and neglected to mention that his wife’s brother (the then-Mexican governor) sold the Mission San Juan Capistrano to Forster at a bargain, allowing for the landmark’s eventual privatization. This marks a chapter in time when a family lived on and managed the site. Yes, a woman made that exchange possible —and this example shows also how when history is inclusive, it becomes more interesting.

This history would later be upended by President Abraham Lincoln’s return of the Mission San Juan Capistrano to the Catholic Church in 1864, yet another interesting chapter marked by change.

Mission San Juan Capistrano is the leading mission in the state of California in attendance, preservation efforts, arts programming and education. To suggest a field trip to the Mission should be canceled is to deny the opportunity to truly teach and impact, and that is akin to censorship. We advocate that this landmark, now more than ever, is worth learning from, and invite you to walk the path with us to see the beauty, history of 245 years up close. In fact, we believe that Mission San Juan Capistrano might be the perfect place to have some of the more difficult conversations about history, inclusion, and moving forward.

Mechelle Lawrence-Adams is the Executive Director of Mission San Juan Capistrano. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

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

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. The Capistrano Dispatch and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory. thecapistranodispatch.com

SOAPBOX

Letter to the Editor THE FARM —R.A. CLARK, San Juan Capistrano I’m concerned about the newest housing plan, called “The Farm,” and the walls they want to erect. Gated communities are divisive, undemocratic and, in many instances, racist. We have too many of these walled cities in San Juan Capistrano

and the surrounding areas, as it is. Elitists may think that by walling themselves off from the rest of the unwashed minions that they are safer, but statistics don’t bear this out. Gated communities are no safer than non-gated neighborhoods. Walled communities provide a false sense of security and safety, and can endanger life when emergency vehicles are delayed by locked gates. They can also pose a challenge to delivery drivers, friends or other visitors.

I hope that the councilmembers will strike the gates from the plan or vote no on the project.

GUEST OPINION: Health and Nutrition 101 by Gina Cousineau

Are You a Victim of Food Bullying?

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ost days, I am approached by strangers and clients alike, regarding my opinion on the latest diet, wellness, or health-related book, pill, potion, fad, or trend.

Just this week alone, I had conversations about soy products, Lion’s mane mushrooms, dairy, lectins, and nightshades, all requiring me to spend time and effort confirming the current research, paired with my extensive knowledge base, then accompanied by a detailed dialogue.

Each time I am thrust into these conversations, I cannot help but wonder where this individual heard about a product or approach, and what was conveyed to make them consider buying into it.

When I speak to potential clients, sharing my approach to help them achieve their weight loss and health goals—which always goes back to the basics with real wholesome food, a little planning, prepping, and even some cooking—they will not follow up with me, most of the time.

And we must go back to the “why?”

Today, the Internet, in all its glory, is ultimately both useful and harmful. A quick Google search leads to hundreds, if not thousands of hits, which depending on how the search is worded, will bring you to the very information that you are wanting to hear.

We must be very careful to use solid science and evidence, not just opinions based on the influencer wanting to sell you their latest book or supplements, touting a few small studies done on mice, which do not translate to human beings.

But we all know desperation leads to desperate measures. And if one can take a pill to “fix” the years of abuse that fast food and being a couch potato have caused, then no matter the cost, no matter how outrageous the claim, the multibillion-dollar health industry proves how gullible we are.

While I know you don’t have time, and don’t know how nor want to cook, I am pleading with you to consider taking the time and effort to educate yourself and begin to consider eating foods like your grandma, or perhaps your great grandma, consumed.

While you don’t have to grow it, you can easily go to your local grocery store and

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

simply start by filling your cart with fruits and vegetables that look enticing.

One thing we have seen with the onslaught of organic produce, is that those on fixed HEALTH AND incomes will often forgo NUTRITION 101 buying conventional

By Gina (non-organic) produce.

Cousineau This is because they cannot afford the organic version, since they have been bullied into believing that “organic” is the only safe option. Let me stress that our food supply is safe.

You would have to eat boatloads of conventional strawberries every day to get the level of pesticide that “food bullying” environmental groups would have you believe are harmful. The benefits of eating these conventional foods far outweigh the risk of pesticide residue, much of which can be rinsed off, along with providing you with produce that has not been previously eaten by bugs.

My suggestion this month is for you to buy food as close to nature as possible.

Meaning a banana over banana bread. And instead of being afraid to buy conventional fruits and veggies, lets instead forgo the organic cheese curls with little nutritional value, or the organic cereal, which contains sugar as a second ingredient.

Stop being bullied, advocate for yourself, use your natural instincts, and in turn, your gut will reward you with better health.

Gina Cousineau works with clients virtually out of her San Clemente office. Her extensive education with a BS in dietetics and MS in integrative and functional nutrition, chef training, and more than 30 years as a fitness professional, allow her to help clients with finding a practical nutrition approach to reach their goals. You can reach her at mamag@mamagslifestyle.com, 949.842.9975, and on Instagram and Facebook @mamagslifestyle. CD

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

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The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

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GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

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.

Friday | 10 ‘FRI-YAY’ FUN WOOD WORKSHOP 6-9 p.m. Work on a wood project with this DIY project workshop. Project options include wood or porch signs, wood clock or wood tray. Customize your project with designer paints and non-toxic colors. Register online. AR Workshop San Juan Capistrano, 31107 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite B2, San Juan Capistrano. 949.482.1362. arworkshop.com/sanjuancapistrano.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GHOST WALK 8 p.m. Learn about the eerie history of San Juan Capistrano as you walk through the downtown area. The walk is hosted by Haunted Orange County. meet at the visitor’s information booth by the train tracks.

26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 866.446.7803. hauntedoc.com.

FREE CONCERT WITH FAN HALEN 6 p.m. Enjoy a Van Halen tribute show

from The Coach House in the comfort of your own home. Tribute band Fan Halen will perform. The event is free and livestream only. View the show at alerttheglobe.com.

At the Movies: Unpredictable Changes in Movie Releasing

FANDANGO FRIDAY 6-9 p.m. Grab some food and wine, and enjoy some free live entertainment.

Fandango Fridays will be held on the second Friday of the month. Seating is first-come, first-served, but lawn chairs are also welcome. A Stone’s Throw Winery, 29943 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.364.2063. astonesthrowwinery.com.

BY MEGAN BIANCO

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nstead of attempting to predict when new movies will be released in theaters, I’m going to try and guess which will bite the bullet and just be dumped on Video on Demand (VOD)/ streaming instead.

Within a week, we not only went from mandatory face masks in public places to entertainment companies changing their minds yet again on releasing their content as COVID-19 cases continue to rise throughout the country.

Saturday | 11 LIVE MUSIC AT TREVOR’S 7-10 p.m. Eat some food, grab a drink and unwind with some live music on the outdoor patio at Trevor’s. Selly & the Stray will perform. Nicolas Fresard will also perform earlier in the day, from 3 to 6 p.m.

Trevor’s at the Tracks, 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.9593. trevorsatthetracks.com.

Sunday | 12 PIPER SUNDAY 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The Southern California Uilleann Pipers Club is hosting a Zoom seminar featuring online discussion with guest speakers about Irish piping and music. Mark Redmond will join this session from Ireland. A PayPal donation of $20 is suggested. socalpipers.com.

Mulan. Photo: Courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures

Tuesday | 14 SUMMER JUNIOR GOLF CAMP 10 a.m.-noon. Beginner and intermediate classes are for ages 8-16. The camp at San Juan Hills Golf Club will go over different aspects of golf, including fundamentals, full swing, and course management. The cost is $175 per child. San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.280.7506. sanjuanhillsgolf.com/calendar.

EDITOR’S PICK A drive-in movie night will be held on Sunday, July 12, at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park.

Photo: Collin Breaux

SUNDAY, JULY 12: DRIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHT 8:30 p.m. If you’re looking for entertainment options during the social distancing era, or just feeling nostalgic for the days of drive-in movies, check out this drive-in movie night at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park. Sunday’s movie is Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Other drive-in movie nights at the park to come. 30753 Avenida La Pata, San Juan Capistrano. cinemapopups.com.

The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

TUESDAY SKINS GAME AT SJHGC 5 p.m. Join in on the fun during a ninehole, two-man scramble with weekly prizes. Register online or call the golf shop.

Cost is $25 per player, per week. San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1167, ext. 1. sanjuanhillsgolf.com/calendar.

Friday | 17 FREE LIVESTREAMED CONCERT WITH THE WHO EXPERIENCE 6 p.m. Enjoy a tribute show to The Who from The Coach House in the comfort of your own home. Tribute band The Who

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Mulan, Bill & Ted Face the Music, Unhinged and Tenet are all now pushing back their release dates at least two full weeks. This leaves July completely gone for the movie season, and now August is suddenly the soonest possibility for new films.

A couple of studios have slowly and cautiously followed Universal’s lead and switched to digital platforms for a few selected pictures. Paramount is now having SpongeBob SquarePants: Sponge on the Run go directly to VOD at the end of the year.

Considering how many of these selected major movies skipping the box-office have been PG or PG-13, some have pondered if the movies switching to online have been family/kids movies because the average older parent is more likely to just spend a few dollars on a distraction for their kid rather than figure out how to use the latest pirating torrents.

Of the four films I previously mentioned, Disney’s Mulan will most likely hold off on streaming as long as it can since the studio has so many B-projects they can make quick money on Disney+.

Tenet’s director, Christopher Nolan, has been a longtime supporter of the theater experience and is probably hoping Warner Bros. saves it until the studios feel safe enough to encourage large, indoor crowds.

Bill & Ted, I can see going either way if things continue to struggle economically or miraculously get better soon. CD

Experience will perform. The event is free and livestream only. View the show at alerttheglobe.com.

Saturday | 18 SOUTH OC CARS AND COFFEE 9-11 a.m. South OC Cars and Coffee, dubbed the world’s biggest weekly car meet, attracts a mix of 500-1,000 hypercars, supercars, exotics, vintage, classic, muscle and sports cars, hot rods, rat rods, pickups, 4x4s and motorcycles. New social-distancing guidelines have been put in place, including a requirement that all attendants must wear face masks.

The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. southoccarsandcoffee.com.

LOW-COST PET VACCINE CLINIC 3:30-5 p.m. Pets Plus is offering this clinic.

There will be discounted vaccination packages, microchips, physical exams, prescription flea control, fecal exams and diagnostic testing. Walk-ins are welcome.

All pets must be on a leash or in a carrier.

Pets Plus San Juan Capistrano, 32022 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

800.988.8387. vetcarepetclinic.com. thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Bowie

Bowie. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

M Photo: Courtesy of OC Archives and OC Public Libraries

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo depicts San Juan Creek at Ganado Dr. The year is believed to be 1958.

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.

GUEST OPINION: Moments in Time by Jan Siegel

Malice Toward None

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hen Hitler came to power in Germany, a Lutheran minister said, “First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out because I was not a Socialist . . .Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew . . .Then they came for me, and there was no one to speak out.”

That is what we are living through today. I love history. I love the story behind the history. I love San Juan Capistrano because of its stories and its history.

Protests are one thing. A protest can be a march, a sit-in, a rally of speeches.

All good. All positive. All are what this country stands for and what is specifically stated in the Constitution of the United States as a right.

But when protesters tear down and The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

deface statues and businesses, they are rioters. And rioting is not tolerated. When they tore down statues of Confederate generals, I did nothing because I was not from the South. When they tore down and defamed our Founding Fathers, I did nothing because I did not want to get involved.

But when they tear down statues of Saint Junipero Serra or not allow school field trips to the Mission, I will not stand by. I am not Catholic, but I do care about the history of San Juan Capistrano, and I will not stand by and see that history trashed by people who care nothing about the history of this country or this community.

They simply want to rewrite history to fit their narrative in 2020 as to how someone in 1619, 1776, or 1865 should have behaved.

St. Serra was not a perfect man, but he never said he was. He literally beat himself every day, because he thought he was not worthy enough to serve God. But he had great foresight. He knew that Western civilization was going to take over local Native American tribes whether they were ready or not, and he wanted to make sure that they were ready for what was to come. In 1773, he drafted a list of 32 regulations to present before the Viceroy

of Spain in Mexico City. These regulations guaranteed, among other items, the fair treatment of Indians by the missionaries by taking them away from control of the military. He wanted them to learn a trade so that they would be ready for the new civilization. His regulations covered the military, trades people, missionaries, Indians, administrators and doctors. It was passed by the King and became law in 1767, 16 years before the Bill of Rights was ratified in the United States.

In 2001, the Taliban tore down Buddhist statues, and the world community and the MOMENTS United Nations were IN TIME

By Jan Siegel upset. The very people that today are supporting the rioters were upset. Where is the condemnation for tearing down our statues, our history? We have become the Taliban.

That is why I am speaking out.

In Lincoln’s second inaugural address, he stated, “With malice toward none and charity for all . . . let us bind up the nation’s wounds . . .” Toleration and compromise were behind the reason for many of

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eet Bowie, an outgoing boy looking to find his new best friend.

About two years old, Bowie loves getting his exercise outdoors. If you say “run,” he’ll run with you. He has a happy demeanor and would be a great match for an active individual.

If you are interested in adopting Bowie, please visit petprojectfoundation.org/adoptions/adoptadog to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to animalservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. CD

the Confederate statues. History teaches us that.

Spend a “Moment in Time” and think about the good of history, how we have changed in our history, how we have learned from our history. Let us not allow our history to be forgotten, trashed or altered to suit any one group. I will stand up for you.

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

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

HELP WANTED COOK NEEDED FOR COACH HOUSE IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO. Please send your resume to: kristy@thecoachhouse.com.

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

Submit your info online at www.thecapistranodispatch.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 July 10–23, 2020

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

‘It’s Too Early to Know’

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n early June, my partner, Greta, and I were in Palm Springs, tidying up our vacation home, in anticipation of a new tenant arriving on July 1.

The last thing we needed to take care was to get the cable TV hookup in the living room working properly. The morning of June 9, a Spectrum TV repairman came to our home to put things in order. He was wearing a mask, and I was wearing a mask. Greta was welldistanced in another room, away from the guy and me.

I did get within two feet of him for two minutes to hold the TV from tumbling over as he readjusted cables in the back of the set. Problem fixed in 45 minutes.

Greta and I returned to Dana Point.

Eight days later, on June 17, a Spectrum TV executive telephoned to inform us that the repairman came down with COVID-19 the day after he was at our house. Greta and I were horrified.

I immediately notified my doctor. He ordered me to get tested, because I had been in close contact with the repairman, although neither Greta nor I had experienced any symptoms and our temperatures were below 97 degrees. He said she didn’t need to be tested, unless my results came back positive.

The earliest available test date was Friday the 19th, two days later. It was a drive-through experience at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo. I asked the doctor when results would be available.

He said, “It’s too early to know. The results will take two or more days.”

Greta and I sheltered in place that weekend, a bit preoccupied, hoping we would hear the results on Monday. But no word.

On Tuesday, four days after being tested—and two weeks after the encounter with the repairman—I sent a reminder email to my doctor that I was awaiting the results. His reply: “It’s too early to know. No results yet. Stay safe.”

Wednesday, no results. It was now 15 days after being exposed. Greta and I were going a little crazy; however, we both felt no symptoms.

Thursday morning, six days after the test, still no word. I emailed my doctor again, saying, “This is ridiculous.”

At noon, an email arrived from him: “Your results are negative.”

Greta and I gave each other a hug.

The doctor added, “Continue to be careful. The number of cases in California is growing.”

The lesson learned from our experience: if anyone enters your home, for repair or cleaning or just a visit, ensure masks ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 are on everybody and

By Tom Blake keep your distance. If possible, put off the visit until things change regarding the virus.

Greta and I still enjoy happy hours with friends, but they are on Zoom.

Don’t become complacent, thinking the worst is over. Unfortunately, it’s not. A person testing negative can test positive in a future test. Our hope is that you don’t encounter the words, “It’s too early to know,” at least in the context of how we experienced them.

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Dispatch provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of The Dispatch or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com. The Capistrano Dispatch and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

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STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Waiting Game High school sports workouts postponed as state, county amend guidance

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

H

igh school sports in Orange County are on hold, again.

The Capistrano Unified School District, including San Juan Hills High School, was set to return to athletics for the first time since the coronavirus shutdown in mid-March with conditioning camps opening for several sports on Monday, July 6. However, over the Fourth of July weekend, the district made the decision to put a hold on all activities and postpone the camps until further notice.

It turned out that CUSD was only being proactive, as on Monday afternoon the Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) sent out a letter to the school districts advising against these summer camps until further guidance could be given by the county or state.

“The California Department of Public Health has confirmed that youth sports, including conditioning activities associated with high school athletic programs, are not yet permitted under the agency’s current guidance,” the OCDE said in an update on Tuesday, July 7. “CDPH officials stated unequivocally that youth sports were not currently permitted, adding that guidance would be released at some point in the future.”

The OCDE on its own can not shut down the athletic programs, but it assists the local districts to provide clarification and guidance. Most of the county’s public schools immediately adhered to the guidance and shut down on Monday evening. The county’s private schools aren’t under the purview of OCDE, but after conferring with the CDPH and Orange County Health Care Agency, almost all of the private schools— including JSerra Catholic High School—shut down on Tuesday.

The county provided its guidance on Wednesday afternoon, July 8, as it postponed all youth sports activities until further guidance is provided by the state.

“The State of California has recently amended its guidance regarding youth sports practices, team drills and training

and will no longer allow them to occur throughout the state,” the county announced in a release. “Currently, there is no scheduled time by which the state will reopen youth sports.”

This is a change from the county’s June 15 guidance in which Orange County and other counties throughout California used the state’s day camp and fitness facility guidelines to allow youth sports practices.

While there is no timetable for the reopening of youth sports in California, the CIF state and CIF-SS offices intend to announce their plans for the upcoming high school sports season on July 20.

When the county allowed practices under the day camp guidance on June 15, Los Alamitos High School and Tustin High School then took that opportunity to become the first county schools to reopen athletics activities with football camps.

Following OCDE’s guidance, Los Alamitos shut down its practices immediately, but the Tustin Unified School District said it will continue workouts through July 10.

TUSD said that the coaches’ and players’ families needed “more than a one-day notice to find alternative supervision and activities for their children.”

In South Orange County, the Saddleback Valley Unified School District and Irvine Unified School District were each scheduled to join CUSD in opening practices on Monday. While CUSD postponed early, SVUSD and Irvine went ahead with their workouts on Monday before receiving the guidance to shut down.

San Juan Hills was prepared to open camps for football, baseball, boys basketball, soccer, cross country and water polo.

JSerra opened camps for baseball, basketball, cross country, football, swimming and water polo on Monday. The Lions were able to get two days of workouts in before their shutdown on Tuesday evening.

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is among the few schools that have had no disruptions to their plans. The Tartans had targeted the July 20 CIF announcement date for their camp starts. St. Margaret’s athletic director Patrick Bendzick said it has been “a moving target,” but that St. Margaret’s will be ready to go when the county gives the word.

All of the scheduled workouts around the county, including at San Juan Hills High in CUSD’s Phase 1, were going to have extensive restrictions and health protocols. Groups were to be limited to nine players and one coach, and those groups would have staggered start times to avoid close overlapping. The workouts were to be limited to conditioning and drills, but there would be no equipment—balls, bats, foam pads, weights, etc.—and social distancing would be maintained. CD thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch June 26-July 9, 2020

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The Capistrano Dispatch July 10–23, 2020

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