February 14, 2014

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, EVENTS AND MORE F E B R U A RY 1 4 -2 0 , 2 0 1 4

LO C A L

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VOLUME 7, ISSUE 7

Fueling Scientific Curiosity Girls in Ocean Science conferences aim to inspire budding researchers E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

Girls in Ocean Science participants Bonnie Spence (left), 13, of San Clemente, and Nova Wassmann, 13, of Laguna Beach, test electroreception by replicating shark senses at the Ocean Institute Saturday. Nearly 100 girls joined in a series of experiments geared toward inspiring young scientists. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

www.danapointtimes.com

Hotel Blaze Damages Reach $550,000, Authorities Say

Lack of Finalized Plans Continues Doheny Hotel Discussion

Dana Point’s Justin Van Dyck Creates New SUP Sports League

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

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CITY AND BUSINESS CALENDAR SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17

Farmers Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Seasonal produce is on the ticket at the weekly outdoor market at La Plaza Park, located at 34111 La Plaza Street. Call 949.573.5033 to find out about renting a booth.

President’s Day Due to the holiday, City Hall and Dana Point Community/ Senior Center will be closed. For more information, call 949.248.3501.

City Council Meeting 6 p.m. Dana Point City Council will meet at City Hall, Council Chambers, located at 33282 Golden Lantern. Stick with www.danapointtimes.com for a look at the night’s discussion.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19

Preschool and Toddler Story Times 10:15 a.m., 11 a.m. Dana Point children’s librarian Ericka Reeb hosts two story times each Tuesday for preschoolers and toddlers. Find out more by calling the library at 949.496.5517.

OC Stories: Share Your Story 10 a.m.– 1 p.m. Share your photos at a scanning party at the Dana Point Library. OC Stories is an online photo and audio collection of images and stories from Orange County’s past.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16

D a n a Po i nt

History Tour 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m. The Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, hosts a two-hour, walking tour exploring the history of the area. To register, call 949.248.3527.

DANA POINT’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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…Island Way Bridge?

THE LATEST: The Orange County Board of Supervisors awarded a $1.42 million contract on Jan. 28 to a Gardena-based construction company for needed repairs to the Island Way Bridge.

The bridge links together Dana Point Harbor Drive and Dana Drive. It was built in 1969 during construction of the Dana Point Harbor and was seismically retrofitted in 2001, according to a county report.

WHAT’S NEXT: The project will replace existing pavement, resurface the bridge deck and improve ramps and crosswalks to conform to the American with Disabilities Act. Also, mechanisms will be installed on bridge piers to prevent future corrosion.

Much of the project’s funding will come from county funds allocated by the state in 2006 as part of Proposition 1B, for local streets and roads improvements. The remainder will come from gas taxes.

FIND OUT MORE: Check out www.danapointtimes.com for Harbor news.—Andrea Papagianis

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…Campaign Contributions?

THE LATEST: Doheny Hotel developer, Beverly Hills Hospitality Group, and its communications consultant Government Solutions, Inc. donated a combined $1,650 to Mayor Lisa Bartlett’s campaign for Orange County Supervisor last quarter, contribution records show.

On Nov. 6, Government Solutions, which secures government approvals for “complex” real estate land uses according to its website, contributed $250. The developer penned its first contribution to Bartlett for $500 the same day and followed it with Dana Point Times February 14-20, 2014

$900 on Dec. 13, according to Orange County Registrar of Voters records.

Bartlett announced her candidacy to replace Pat Bates as the Orange County Board of Supervisors fifth district representative in October. Councilman Robert Ming, of Laguna Niguel, and Frank Ury, a Mission Viejo councilman, are also in the running for Bates’ seat.

On Monday, the Planning Commission continued a public hearing on the proposed hotel at Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive. The developer indicated in December that a modified proposal would be submitted that would seek to use 0.76 acres of Lantern Bay Park to ease access to the hotel’s driveway. No decision has yet been made.

WHAT’S NEXT: If plan changes gain commission approval, and the project moves forward, an easement onto parkland would need City Council consent. The land in question was deeded to the city by Orange County for park use.

“Bartlett is very diligent about reviewing the agendas for the council and boards she sits on,” said campaign consultant Jeff Corless, adding Bartlett doesn’t vote on items where there could be a conflict of interest.

FIND OUT MORE: Follow election developments on www.danapointtimes.com.—AP

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…the Dana Point Harbor Inn Fire?

THE LATEST: More than 80 firefighters battled a blaze at the Dana Point Harbor Inn Tuesday night, officials confirmed.

The fire was reported at 8:12 p.m. in a vacant building of the motel, located at Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive, said OCFA spokesman Capt.

Steve Concialdi. By 9:07 p.m. crews had the three-alarm fire under control, he said.

The fire began in a bottom unit of the

motel’s southern building, which was vacant and undergoing renovations, Concialdi said. Flames spread upward, climbing up walls and floors, and entered the attic. Of the building’s 22 units, 10 were damaged by fire, water or smoke, he said.

Authorities estimated $450,000 in structural and $100,000 in content damages.

WHAT’S NEXT: All utilities to the motel were turned off. The city red-tagged the building, and at least 30 guests were displaced by the fire. Volunteers with the American Red Cross were on site providing assistance, as motel staff worked to place guests at other area hotels.

The motel was red-tagged by the city in November after a sewage line showed signs of disintegration. The southern building had been vacant since Nov. 12. The northern building reopened six weeks ago, said city building official Mark Sutton.

FIND OUT MORE: Track breaking news on Twitter @DanaPointTimes.—AP

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…the San Juan Double Homicide?

THE LATEST: A man and a woman found dead in their home in an upscale San Juan Capistrano neighborhood were victims of gunshot wounds, authorities confirmed.

The bodies of Bradford Hans Sachs, 57, and Andra Resa Sachs, 54, were discovered early Sunday morning at their home at 32271 Peppertree Bend. Authorities have not identified a suspect and an investigation is ongoing.

An 8-year-old boy was found alive but also suffered gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. He is expected to survive. Officials have now revealed that two teenage girls were inside the residence at the time of the shooting, but were unharmed.

Authorities said Monday that the Sachs

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were divorced but were residing together at the time of their deaths. Court documents show that the Sachs divorced in 2000. The Sachs were noted entrepreneurs but were also mired in several lawsuits.

The couple founded a now-defunct Internet service provider company, Flashcom, Inc., in 1998. The couple also had two electric-car conversion companies based in San Juan that were both shut down.

WHAT’S NEXT: Authorities are requesting anyone with information to call 714.647.7044. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at www.occrimestoppers.org.

FIND OUT MORE: Stay with the Dana Point Times for updates.—Brian Park

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…Beach Closures?

THE LATEST: A sewage spill closed Salt Creek Beach Wednesday afternoon to surfing, swimming and diving, according to an Orange County Health Care Agency release. As of press time the beach was still closed.

A mechanical issue at a Moulton Niguel Water District lift station caused 1,500 gallons of sewage to spill into the storm drainage system, said Matt Collings, the district’s assistant general manager.

The sewage traveled to Salt Creek and caused the beach closure, he said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Beach warnings were issued a quarter-mile upcoast and downcoast of Salt Creek Beach. Other warnings posted near Dana Point Wednesday included ocean waters from Doheny State Beach to Poche Beach.

Stay with www.danapointtimes.com for water quality updates.

FIND OUT MORE: Visit ocbeachinfo.com for the latest on area beach postings.—AP www.danapointtimes.com

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Fueling Scientific Curiosity Girls in Ocean Science conference aims to inspire budding researchers

By Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

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rowing up in Colorado, Mikki McComb-Kobza was surrounded by mountainous terrain.

But an encounter with the film Jaws as a child not only scared the daylights out of her, it also piqued her curiosity in ocean sciences, particularly where the often misunderstood fish are concerned. McCombKobza credits the film with sparking a passion and her lifelong work researching the sensory biology of sharks.

McComb-Kobza, a shark expert with a doctorate in biology, uses her research to promote shark conservation to keep the animals off of long lines. As the director of research and education for Ocean Classrooms, McComb-Kobza helps bring ocean sciences to the fingertips of students, and last weekend she joined seven other female scientists in Dana Point to inspire the next generation of great thinkers.

“It’s an honor and privilege to talk to young girls, to show them a career pathway and show them that it’s possible to become a scientist,” McComb-Kobza said. “I get to show them that science isn’t geeky or nerdy … and that they can have an amazing life and amazing adventures where they are always learning and experiencing something new.”

Nearly 100 middle school-aged students from across the southwest, from San Diego and Los Angeles and as far as Arizona and Nevada, came together Saturday for the Ocean Institute’s annual Girls in Ocean Science Teen Conference, to learn from one another and women in various aspects the science industry.

Armed with new knowledge on sharks’ keen senses, young scientists lined the walls of an outdoor institute classroom.

With electroreception mimicking devices, made from glass jars, paper clips, aluminum foil and pie pans, girls playing sharks walked the room’s perimeter looking for their prey.

A small group of students held colorful balloons they had rubbed on their heads to create static electricity, others held onto balloons without a created electrical charge. One-by-one the sharks used their tools to find hiding prey. The experiment was a success. Students were able to recreate a shark’s sensory ability to detect weak electric fields, used for finding prey in the water.

“Little research has been done on the taste sensation of sharks,” McComb-Kobza told the girls. “Maybe one of you someday, if you get jazzed about sharks, will let the world know.”

Female science professionals working in astronomy, atmospheric studies, oceanography, taxonomy, biology and more Dana Point Times February 14-20, 2014

(Clockwise from the top) Middle school-aged girls listen on as shark biologist Mikki McComb-Kobza shares her research on shark behaviors at the Ocean Institute Saturday. Photo by Madison May Trinity Migliaccio, 13, of Ladera Ranch, shows off an invasive species, known as sea squirt. Photo by Andrea Papagianis Mikki McCombKobza helps middle school students during an experiment testing a hypothesis about shark senses. Photo by Madison May Stephany Viramontes (left) and Tasha Johnson check out invasive species at the Maddie James Seaside Learning Center. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

presented their work and conducted experiments with budding scientists during the ninth annual event, giving girls a hands-on experience and peek into the science world.

The road to the conference serves as a learning tool in and of itself, said the Ocean Institute’s Director of Environmental Programs Karen Jhawar. Jhawar, who also serves as the conferences coordinator, oversees the GIOS committee that makes all decisions pertaining to the event.

“They are a wonderful group of young women who are all very active within their own communities and schools, along with their committee responsibilities,” Jhawar said of the group.

From designing T-shirts and tote-bags to coordinating speakers and running experiments, the committee’s 23 members had a hand in all aspects of the day. Consisting of girls in middle and high school, college and a few parents, the committee is selected from past GIOS Conference attendees. Once selected from a pool of applicants, committee members are first tasked with suggesting and contacting potential speakers.

For this year’s middle school conference, committee members brought in scientists from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Southern California Edison, Sierra Streams Institute and Orange County Department of Education.

Leslie Harris, polychaete collections manager for the Natural History Museum, reached off the Maddie James Seaside Learning Center dock into the Dana Point Harbor. Pulling up an invasive species, known as a sea squirt, Harris pushed lightly showing a surprised group of teens how the sponge-like creature got its name.

Participants erupted in laughter as water shot into the air.

“Why do we collect,” Harris asked the young students. “Because we are cultivating the past. If you go into marine sciences, or any sciences, that could be you. You could be going out to sea, out Hawaii, the Artic or Australia collecting examples.”

Participants also got a peek into science

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professions based on land, as Program Naturalist Erin Eberhardt with the county Department of Education’s Inside the Outdoors program, introduced other scientific possibilities right in students’ communities.

“This may be Girls in Ocean Science … but everything that happens on land impacts the sea,” Eberhardt told smart phone-wielding participants capturing each moment of her talk. “The thing about science is it overlaps all the time, if you start our studying sciences broadly, it can help you in the long run.”

Jhawar said receiving professional advice and participating in hands-on experiments outside of the classroom setting can help empower girls from a young age.

“Women are much underrepresented in science,” Jhawar said. “This program aims to get girls interested and thinking about their careers. We get to introduce them to amazing women who have made their careers and been successful in science. It just empowers them and gets them thinking about their future.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

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Lack of Finalized Plans Postpone Doheny Hotel Decision Hotel developer expected to present new plans at Planning Commission’s meeting on April 14

By Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

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ore questions were asked than answered this week as the Planning Commission continued a public hearing on the proposed Doheny Hotel that has drawn the community’s ire.

One thing was certain, however. The hotel’s fate will not be decided until April 14 at the earliest.

Monday evening, the Planning Commission continued a hearing surrounding the conflict-ridden two- to five-story hotel for a second time. More than 50 people filled the Dana Point Community Center’s gym expecting a decision. What they received was a project overview from consultants with UltraSystems, who are completing the project’s environmental impact report.

The problem: No one is clear on what the proposal is at this point.

“We cannot discuss the merits of the project because we do not have a project before us this evening,” Commissioner April O’Connor said, as staff and commissioners volleyed questions and answers.

Commissioner Norm Denton recused himself from all Doheny Hotel discussions as his homeowner’s association owns land within 500 feet of the project’s site.

On Dec. 9, hotel developer Beverly Hills Hospitality Group announced the proposal would be modified.

Initially, the developer introduced a

DP Sheriff’s Blotter SPONSORED BY

Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com COMPILED BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

Sunday, February 9 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (5:34 p.m.) Metal detector wielding people were looking for valuables along PCH where the city had recently removed trees and portions of the sidewalk. A paDana Point Times February 14-20, 2014

Doheny Hotel rendering. Courtesy of Langdon Wilson International

250-room hotel on three-adjoining lots at the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive and asked for a height variance to the city’s 35-foot limit to accommodate a five-story building. In December, the developer indicated it would modify an alternative in the project’s draft EIR—labeled “Option B”—that would utilize 0.76 acres of Lantern Bay Park for the hotel’s front driveway, to ease access, house taxis and parking, and serve as an additional loading dock. As it originally stood, a single loading dock would be located on PCH. If the changes eventually gain commission approval, they will have to get the City Council’s OK for a 30-foot easement onto parkland. Orange County deeded the land to Dana Point for public park use.

At the December meeting, City Attor-

ney Patrick Munoz said if the commission and council choose to move forward with the project, a case could be made that parking fulfills this requirement.

But without plans from the developer, those talks are a way off.

After Monday’s meeting, Coralee Newman, the developer’s communications consultant, said alternative plans would likely be completed later this month. Newman, with Government Solutions Inc., said community outreach meetings could soon follow.

It’s still unclear what those changes will entail. And as the commission began asking staff questions about sidewalk encroachments, landscaping and lighting plans, loading zones and height, the answer was clear, staff just doesn’t know what to expect.

trolling deputy was alerted to their actions but reported the treasure hunters were not violating any laws, as they were on a public roadway and not private property.

playground at Pines Park with orange paint. A nearby residence was also vandalized. The caller said the home’s windows were covered with obscene language.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Calle Del Sol, 34800 Block (3:03 p.m.)

A woman driving a black Saturn sedan was parked in front of the caller’s location for more than seven hours smoking cigarettes and listening to music.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Street of the Golden Lantern/Dana Point Harbor Drive (1:47 a.m.) A barefoot man with sandy-brown hair, a goatee and wearing a short sleeve shirt and shorts was reportedly trying to open the doors of parked cars at the Dana Point Harbor.

WELFARE CHECK Doheny Park Road/Pacific Coast Highway (11:13 a.m.) Dispatch received word from a second-hand informant about two young children that were left unattended near the train tracks. The original informant was a train conductor. California State Parks officials were asked to patrol the area.

DISTURBANCE-MECHANICAL El Encanto Avenue, 34000 Block (9:29 a.m.) Authorities were asked to quiet a man who was using a loud sander.

The caller said the problem was ongoing and warned deputies of an “irate female” living at the residence.

VANDALISM REPORT Camino Capistrano/Calle Loma (7:17 a.m.) Vandals covered the children’s

HIT AND RUN MISDEMEANOR Selva Road, 34000 Block (2:38 a.m.) The drunken driver of a newer-silver Mercedes Benz backed into a vehicle and sped off.

The driver was a 27-year-old male and was most likely heading south on Pacific Coast Highway, according to the caller.

DISTURBANCE Nottingham Way, 33400 Block (2:21 a.m.)

Sheriff’s officials were asked to retrieve a woman’s keys that were thrown over a wall by a stranger. The dispatcher on the call overheard a struggle before the line disconnected. A woman called back saying her boyfriend took her wallet and keys before leaving in a gray Ford truck. He left his green Nissan sedan at the residence, she said.

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Plans must be available for public review 10 days before any action is taken, staff said.

“You will have more information at the next meeting,” Community Development Director Ursula Luna-Reynosa told the commission, adding that the adjusted project “would be less invasive.”

Chairman Gary Newkirk challenged the idea an alternative plan would have less impact than the original but highlighted the project’s unknowns.

Under California Environmental Quality Act guidelines, the draft EIR provided project alternatives that could “feasibly meet” the developer’s objectives while lessening or avoiding significant impacts.

As it reads in the EIR, Option B would increase the number of rooms and onsite parking spaces by acquiring park space.

According to the report, this alternative “does not avoid significant or unavoidable impacts.”

Currently, the proposed hotel site includes a Jack in the Box, vacant store and 46-room hotel, all of which would be demolished.

While community members have voiced support for changes being made to a blighted corner at the city’s southern entrance, speaker after speaker Monday raised issue with the project’s size, height and impact on views, traffic, water and the existing hotel community. DP

TRAFFIC HAZARD Del Prado Avenue/Street of the Copper Lantern (1:22 a.m.) A shopping cart was reported in the middle of southbound traffic lanes of Del Prado. Officials responded and did not find a cart in the roadway.

PEDESTRIAN CHECK Dana Point Harbor Drive/Street of the Park Lantern (1:20 a.m.) Deputies apprehended a man with outstanding warrants for the possession of dangerous drugs.

The 45-year-old man is still in custody at the Central Men’s Jail in Santa Ana, according to county inmate records.

DISTURBANCE Calle Juanita, 26700 Block (12:47 a.m.)

At least 10 drunken juveniles had toilet papered the caller’s house multiple times in a two-hour timeframe. The caller requested a patrol check for a white pick-up truck believed to belong to a neighbor.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Pacific Coast Highway, 32200 Block (12:10 a.m.) Authorities were alerted to a green Toyota sedan parked in the Salt Creek Grill lot. According to the caller, the driver shows up nightly and just parks. Deputies made contact with the driver, who was from Loma Linda. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

next week’s issue of the Dana Point Times for the official event guide.

Compiled by Andrea Papagianis

Free Income Tax Filing Services Offered Throughout County

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO Casino Affair to Benefit CUSD, Camp Pendleton Children u Launching a new fundraising initiative, the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley will host its first-ever casino night Saturday, March 8, to benefit Capistrano Unified School District students and Camp Pendleton-based Marine families.

The event runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at El Niguel Country Club, located at 23700 Clubhouse Drive, in Laguna Niguel.

Tickets are $60.

Casino della Vallee—Italian for Casino of the Valley—will include a buffet dinner, silent auction, wine sale, music, dancing and an optional poker tournament. The poker portion of the night has a $50 buy-in and requires a reservation.

Tickets can be purchased by emailing casinodellavalley@gmail.com or by calling 949.291.8408.

Funds raised will support the Assistance League’s community programs geared to help local children.

The nonprofit organization’s contributions include purchasing clothing, school supplies and educational materials. Additionally, the organization helps support CUSD enrichment programs and reached out to more

than 22,000 children last school year.

To find out more about the nonprofit, visit www.capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org.

OC Parks Calling All Sand Sculptors for Festival Contest u The two-weekend 43rd annual Dana Point Festival of Whales kicks off in just two weeks, celebrating the more than 10,000mile migration of the California gray whale.

With the festival comes four days of events for the entire family highlighting the area’s offerings, beach culture, environmental conservation and of course, one of the world’s largest mammals.

On Sunday, March 2, OC Parks hosts a beachside contest for families, friends, school groups and all sand enthusiasts.

The annual Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition at Baby Beach opens at 8 a.m. with judging beginning at 2:30 p.m. Contestants are encouraged to keep creations within ocean subjects, including whales, ocean creatures, pirates and ships, surfing and tropical paradise themes.

Prizes will be awarded to first- through fourth-place finishers.

Early registration is available now through Wednesday, Feb. 26 by emailing

Jenny Lopez carves out the Dana Hills High School’s Fine Arts Department dolphin logo at last year’s Dana Point Festival of Whales. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

steve.bonhall@ocparks.com. Entry is free.

Visit www.ocparks.com for a registration form. Sand will be provided. Participants should provide their own buckets and tools.

During the contest, the Dana Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 will host its annual Whale of a Pancake Breakfast at the OC Sailing and Event’s Center, located at 34451 Ensenada Place, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

For more information, call 949.275.3142.

To find out more about the festival, visit www.festivalofwhales.com and check out

u In conjunction with the United Way and Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in San Clemente, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance will provide free-electronic preparation and filing of 2013 federal and state income tax returns through Sunday, April 13.

Services are available to both English and Spanish speaking families and individuals whose 2013 annual income was less than $60,000. Complete printed copies of federal and state tax returns, including all supporting documents, will be provided to taxpayers after electronic filing.

Services will be provided at Our Lady of Fatima, located at 105 N. La Esperanza.

Times are available on Thursdays, through April 10, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturdays until April 12, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays, through April 13, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Appointments are recommended, but not required. For an appointment in English, call 949.429.1571, for an appointment in Spanish call 949.429.1543. For more information and a complete listing of VITA locations and dates, call 888.434.8248.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events and more. We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@ danapointtimes.com.

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Andrea Papagianis, 949.388.7700, x112 apapagianis@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING

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Dana Point Times, Vol. 7, Issue 7. The DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch. 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 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

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ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

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Group Senior Editor > Andrea Swayne City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Papagianis Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Locals Only Business Listing Manager

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Cathy Manso, Madison May, Tawnee Prazak, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

GUEST OPINION: Conscious Living by Meryl Gwinn

A Memoir in Automobiles Musings of time spent driving prompts rethinking of priorities

C

ars have been on my mind. Other than natural health things and plotting to get to the mountains soon, I’ve been thinking a lot about vehicles.

Driving more frequently than ever and being keenly aware of it, today I entertain a personal vehicle history report, with subsequent thoughts on transportation.

In the last year, I purchased an excellent blue ‘96 Toyota 4-Runner. I say excellent because it’s been found to run noticeably better with encouragement. It was the best decision under the circumstances. The sellers were a local Hawaiian couple who used it for longboard transportation and were expecting a baby at any moment. Every time I see that obnoxious electric blue, I am grateful— mostly because I rely on it so heavily right now, and also because life doesn’t always warrant car ownership.

Upon moving to Southern California five years ago, my boyfriend and I shared a Subaru. We traded off times pedaling to work. My trip was a forgiving 1.5 miles up the hill, his a 14 miler to the San Clemente Pico business park from downtown Laguna, on a vintage road bike. I was

Letters to the Editor ONE MAJOR WATER USER GOES UNPUNISHED PETER CASSIMATIS, San Clemente

Southern California is in the grips of a severe drought. We’re also living in a desert, but figure what a drought in a desert really means. Most seem to “get it”— Dana Point Times February 14-20, 2014

spoiled. Life then also included many adventures on the Orange County Transportation Authority buses, a time consuming endeavor.

Nevertheless, it kept things interesting. Visit www.scag.ca.gov for a CONSCIOUS LIVING hopeful public transporBy Meryl Gwinn tation outlook.

Beyond that, there was an adored ‘87 BMW. Personal style really can trump sensibility. During those years, I learned a ton about working on old German machinery, specifically the convertible type with weathered and shrinking tops—a mysterious concept. My San Clemente mechanic became a good friend.

Eventually the golden Beamer was removed by the city for curbside occupancy of over 72 hours, but I was staying in Chile at the time and it seemed inarguable, so I couldn’t be too upset.

Upon returning, a dear friend loaned me a manual Ford Ranger and a short romance immediately ensued with a truck, to which I am also forever indebted. This

brings me to the 4-Runner, and my first experience driving an SUV on smooth California freeways and tiny beach towns maxed out with cars, many of them bulky SUVs. Again I think, is this really necessary?

How can I downsize to free up a bit in other areas, to cause less pressure on the system and self? Specifically speaking, how can we drive less? What if a work commute fell within a certain range that made it a mandatory walk or bike? It might not be intolerable with a tweaked perspective: a healthy challenge, stronger lungs and early sunrise enjoyments.

Maybe we can amend our routines just slightly in favor of efficiency, like “going to town” for all errands in a single swoop, instead of spazzing out and making four grocery runs a week, draining our wallets, time, and spinal elasticity. It’s difficult to change sometimes when we don’t have to, but what if small somewhat “inconvenient” change created awesome outcomes we may have overlooked?

Questioning how I’d ideally be spending this driving time shifted me to priorities. What’s most important to me, and

lawns looks like hayfields, but that would be an insult to hayfields everywhere.

Who doesn’t seem to get it is the school district.

While the rest of us are subject to (for now) informal watering restrictions due to cost, at least one school seems to feel water is worth just what they pay for it— nothing.

Any night the sprinklers are operating at Shorecliffs Middle School, the gutters run with hundreds of gallons a minute of “free” water, putting thousands of gallons a week into the Poche pond. After being

circulated through the $3 million to $5 million “cleaning” system, all this water sits in Poche pond, waiting for its next rotation through the pipeline to nowhere.

Schools need and should have green grass and plants. The fields at Shorecliffs are not only used by the students but also as a community meeting place for everything, from yoga classes to soccer and rugby to powered hang gliders, serving uses far beyond the schoolhouse walls.

Leadership of a few dedicated teachers and contributions from parents and local businesses has given Shorecliffs a

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how can I make my life look more like that? Right now I might not be able to change what is required of me (job commute) but perhaps I can change what I require of myself (running the beach trail vs. driving to the gym).

Let’s control what we can and become more flexible. Perhaps if we take the time to consider what is changeable in our own lifestyles, we won’t always have to live life in the fast lane. Simply more fuel for thought.

Meryl Gwinn has a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology, has studied yoga, health, food and humans around the globe. She is a constant pursuer of natural medicine and whole-healing solutions. She believes in the power of choice, simplicity and plants as preventative medicine. She is committed to inspiring this change in self and in system. Gwinn welcomes reader feedback at meryl.gwinn@gmail.com. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times 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 DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

learning garden that should be the envy of every school in the nation. These are excellent uses of water, even during times of shortage. Washing down the gutters and filling Poche pond, not so much.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@danapointtimes. com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Dana Point Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

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YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

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D a n a Po i nt

THE LIST A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

friday

VALENTINE’S CRUISE 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic whale watching cruise aboard the Dana Wharf Sportfishing VALENTINE’S DAY and Whale Watching vessel Dana Pride. $35 per person includes champagne and chocolate treats. A full cash bar will also be offered. Reservations required. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

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GREEK MYTHOLOGY IN 90 MINUTES OR LESS 7 p.m. South County School of the Arts Actors’ Repertory Ensemble presents Greek Mythology and Homer’s epic poems The Iliad and The Odyssey in a contemporary, easy to understand and hilarious format. Tickets $12-$15.

Porthole Theater, Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.240.1994, www.socsarts.org.

VALENTINE’S EVENT AND BOW WOW WOW 7:30 p.m. Special four-course meal and entertainment featuring the live premiere of Bow Wow Wow at StillWater Spirits & Sounds. Cost $75. Reservations required. 24701 Del Prado Ave., Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

LUNAR LOVE HIKE 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Take your Valentine on a full-moon hike through The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Admission $10. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

AT THE COACH HOUSE

ROBERT RANDOLPH AND THE FAMILY BAND Robert Randolph and the Family Band is dropping by the Coach House Thursday, Feb. 27 to showcase their latest album, Likety Split, during their North American tour. “Lickety Split is a great album, we really got back to our roots and were able to cover a few cool songs,” said Randolph. Picking up one of the most complex and intricate of instruments at the age of 14, the lap guitar, Randolph recalls playing in church in a rock n’ roll gospel service. The familiarity Randolph has with his lap guitar is readily apparent when you see him rarely looking down at his fingers during a performance. “Sometimes I don’t even know what notes I’m about to play, just because most of our songs are improvisational jams,” he said. Randolph seems to fly under the radar, but he has worked with such acts as Carlos Santana and Buddy Guy on this latest Courtesy photo album alone. Before Robert and the gang take stage, come out and enjoy the two opening acts, Harlis Sweetwater and Ana Popovic. Come out and see Robert Randolph and the Family Band at the Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano, on Feb. 27. Doors open at 6p.m., show starts at 8p.m. Tickets are $35. For tickets and dinner reservations, visit www.thecoachhouse.com or call 949.496.8930. — Victor Carno

saturday

VALENTINE’S DAY LOVE YOUR BEACH CLEANUP 9 a.m.-noon. The first Adopt-A-Beach Cleanup of the year to “love” Doheny Beach back to good health after the runoff from winter rains. Meet at the lifeguard headquarters adjacent to the mouth of San Juan Creek.

Bring gloves. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.6172.

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DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Fresh produce, crafted goods, flowers and much more at La Plaza Park in Dana Point every Saturday.

949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

ANAHEIM SEMPER 5K RUN/WALK 8 a.m. The Anaheim Marine Adoption Committee and the city of Anaheim host a 5K road race at Sycamore Park to benefit the members of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and their families at Camp Pendleton. 8286 E. Monte Vista Road, Anaheim Hills, 714.350.2886, www.semper5k.org.

BACKYARD SKILLS WORKSHOP: FRUIT TREE PRUNING 1 p.m.-3 p.m. The Ecology Center teaches how to properly prune, care for and maintain a fruit tree to enjoy an abundant harvest of fresh fruit. Tickets $20 for members, $30 non-members. 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

MIKE WALLACE 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

sunday

A NIGHT IN PARIS 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Vue Restaurant features a French-inspired menu and event with a fourcourse menu, music, dancing, caricature artist, mimes and more. Cost $99 each. Reservations required. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.487.7516, www.lagunacliffs.com.

KIDSEUM: SUNDAY AFTERNOON FAMILY TIME 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

Family time, kids’ activities and educational programs at Bowers Museum. Tickets $12–$15; under 12 free. 2002 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, 877.250.8999, www.bowers.org.

THE LAST FIVE YEARS 8 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse presents a contemporary song-cycle award-winning musical that ingeniously chronicles the five-year life of a marriage. Tickets $18. Shows through March 3. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

MARINE MAMMAL CRUISE 10 a.m. Board the Ocean Institute’s R/V Explorer for the opportunity to see fish, dolphins, sea lions and other wildlife along the coastline. Cost $22 kids, $35 adults. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

Dana Point Times February 14-20, 2014

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monday

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PRESIDENT’S DAY

COUNTRY DANCIN’ WITH PATRICK AND FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Every Monday at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

tuesday

BAHIA ORCHESTRA PROJECT 8 p.m. Symphony orchestra concert at Soka Performing Arts Center.

Tickets $48-$58. 1 University Circle Street, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4000, www.soka.edu.

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DANA HARBOR TOASTMASTERS MEETING 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Practice public speaking skills in a friendly and fun learning environment every Tuesday at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.728.8969, http://1707.toastmastersclubs.org.

wednesday

SALSA NIGHTS 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live band, DJ, dancing and more at Brio Tuscany Grille. 24050 Camino del Avion, Dana Point, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com.

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CASA ART EXHIBIT 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Casa Romantica’s art exhibit titled “The Mystery of the Ordinary” featuring the work of neo-realist painter/artist Michael Ward is on display through Feb. 23. Admission $5. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

thursday

TASTE OF SAN JUAN 6 p.m.9 p.m. Local restaurants offer samplings of food and drinks Attendees to vote for favorites.

Hosted annually by the Fiesta Association. Tickets $20. El Adobe de Capistrano, 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1976, www.swallowsparade.com.

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*For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com.

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

4

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DP

SUDOKU

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

SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION

D a n a Po i nt

See today’s solution in next week’s issue.

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

To Horse Owners: A Mea Culpa Changing my tune: Why dating a woman with horses is a good thing

A

s a columnist, I’ve written more than 3,000 articles and e-newsletters since July 4, 1994, when my first piece appeared in print. Many of the articles are based upon comments and emails from readers, some poignant, some a bit off the wall.

Recently, I received an email from Gail that puzzled me. She wrote, “I think your comments regarding dating women with horses are quite unfair. Those of us with horses enjoy male company as much as our horses. Please don’t stereotype us.”

My initial reaction to Gail’s email was, “What is she talking about?” And then it dawned on me. About 15 years ago, I wrote an article titled, “Avoid Single Women Who Love Horses,” which Gail must have found in my archives.

It was a tongue-in-cheek article, written innocently. I never expected it would stir up the female horse owners in south Orange County. But oh my, did I get a lot of flak back then, particularly from women who have their horses boarded at stables in San Juan Capistrano. Some threatened

to boycott future columns.

The column was about a single man who shared the experiences he had dating women who own horses. He admitted in the article that he liked seeing ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 the women in their

By Tom Blake tight riding pants. That sentence alone elicited a bevy of negative comments.

He said: “I assisted a voluptuous lovely in delivering her horse to Winchester/ Rancho, for a weekend ‘seminar’ in hunting and jumping. When Saturday was over, she asked me to spend the night in her motel room because ‘the drive home was too long.’ Later, the wide brim of her hat knocked out one of my contact lenses while dancing at a cowboy bar.”

And then he said the plot thickened back at the motel.

He said, “Guess what she did when she emerged from the shower and sat on the

bed wrapped in a towel? She telephoned her husband. She told him where she was, that she’d be spending the night, and yes, that I was still with her. My expectations for the evening changed in a hurry. I muttered to myself, ‘Why don’t you just tell hubby what my name is, what hotel room we’re in, etc.’”

He added, “It turns out the marriage was an arranged one for her residency status. Nevertheless, her horse took priority over any guy. I’ve been involved with two women who would rather spend time with and/or give more consideration to their horses than a prospective relationship.”

Based on his experiences, he recommended that men avoid dating women who own horses.

I reread the old column, and then responded to Gail: “I wrote that column 15 years ago. It amazes me what can be dredged up on the Internet. But Gail, I’ve mellowed. I’ve softened my position regarding dating women who own horses.

“Why? I own Tutor and Spunky’s deli in Dana Point and recently hired a woman

who owns horses. She’s lovely, and a very nice person. And while there are days when she has to leave the deli early to go feed the horses, I know a hard-working, highly visible guy who works in a highlyvisible San Juan Capistrano business who admires her and her dedication to her horses.

“So Gail, I’ve changed my tune. Men should cherish women who own horses and feel fortunate if they can even get a date with one, although they may have to share her affections with a four-legged stud.”

To comment, email Tom at tompblake@ gmail.com.

This month’s Meet and Greet for singles 50 and over will be at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point, Thursday, Feb. 27, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Call 949.248.9008 for questions.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at www.findingloveafter50.com.

DP

Compiled by Robert Sedita, Management Analyst, Dana Point Community Development

Dana Point Business of the Month: Tavern on the Coast

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avern on the Coast, located 34212 Pacific Coast Highway, is owned and operated by Veronica Scala.

Originally from Chicago, Scala and her family began visiting Dana Point regularly when she was a child. In 2011, she moved to Dana Point full-time to start her first restaurant venture. Scala felt the city was missing a tavern-style restaurant and wanted to raise the bar in town.

She purchased the property on PCH that once housed a Hollywood Video store and completed a major remodel from the ground up. The revamped building, which Dana Point Times February 14-20, 2014

features multiple storefronts, is named Coast Market Place and features Tavern, Sundara Salon and off-the-street parking.

Scala designed Tavern on the Coast to be a neighborhood place, where residents and visitors can feel welcome and know the staff as well as the staff knows them.

She wants Tavern to be part of the community’s fabric and is involved in the future of the Town Center Lantern District.

Opened almost a year ago, Tavern on the Coast is not your traditional tavern.

However, it holds onto that traditional-tavern charm. A friendly staff accompanied

by a large bar, outside dining area featuring a fireplace, a private dining room and TVs welcome Tavern’s visitors.

Tavern on the Coast has built its menu on quality and freshness. All meat is prime grade, seafood is wild caught and produce is organic and locally sourced. Everything on the menu, from pastas to sauces and appetizers to desserts are made fresh in house daily. Customer favorites include the prime-beef meatloaf and the sausage and peppers pasta. Tavern on the Coast also features daily specials and an extensive wine and draft beer selection. DP

Page 14

Dana Point Mayor Lisa Bartlett honors Tavern on the Coast owner Veronica Scala with the city’s Business of the Month award Jan. 21. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

First Responders Awarded

What’s Going on in Washington?

Rep. Darrell Issa staff to talk about national happenings at Feb. 21 Coffee Chat

By Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

D Orange County Fire Authority Capt. John Walla (center), of Battalion 6, was honored at Fire Captain of the Year by the Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge Feb. 1. Also pictured (L to R), Lodge Vice PresidentDerek Randles and OCFA Division 3 Chief, Kirk Wells. Courtesy photo

By Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

F

or the 44th year, the Mission Viejo/ Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge No. 2444 honored local men and women serving their communities through law enforcement and emergency responding services.

On Feb. 1 the organization held its annual appreciation dinner for south Orange County first responders, for more than 150 firefighters, law enforcement officers, community leaders and family members of those being recognized for their work and

dedication over the past year.

Capt. Jon Walla, of the Orange County Fire Authority’s Battalion 6, was named Captain of the Year. Battalion 6 services the south Orange County cities of Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

Orange County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Brian Hall, of Dana Point Police Services, was honored as Deputy of the Year.

Community Service Officer Cheryl Waters, of Laguna Niguel Police Services, was also honored. Additionally, OCSD Deputy Jared Streeter, from San Clemente Police Services, was recognized as a Deputy of the Year. DP

ecisions made in Washington and their impact on south Orange County will be the topic of conversation Friday, Feb. 21 as Bill Christiansen, district director for Congressman Darrell Issa (RCalif.), speaks to the community at the Dana Point Civic Association Coffee Chat.

The talk will be held at The Coffee Importers at the Dana Point Harbor beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Christiansen is expected to discuss Issa’s work as chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman, including pending hearings, investigations and legislation. Recently, Issa has launched an inquiry into the White House’s newly formed Office of Political Strategy and Outreach, according to Politico.com.

Issa has also led efforts to reform the United States Postal Service.

Issa’a district director will also discuss the debt ceiling.

Orange County Supervisor Pat Bates (right) and Rep. Darrell Issa share a laugh during the opening of Issa’s Dana Point office. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

Redistricting after the 2000 census removed south Orange County from Issa’s district, but returned San Clemente, Dana Point, and north to Ladera Ranch to the 49th District in 2012. Issa opened a congressional office in Dana Point last September.

Free coffee will be provided. Christiansen’s talk will be followed by questions.

Community members will also have a chance to share their thoughts and upcoming happenings around town. DP

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

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D a n a Po i nt

Dolphin Report

By Steve Breazeale

For in-game updates, news and more for all the Dana Hills High School winter sports teams, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

BOYS BASKETBALL TAKES CARE OF BUSINESS After falling 40-30 on the road at Trabuco Hills on Feb. 7, letting the Mustangs within range of their first-place standing in the Sea View League, the Dana Hills boys basketball team needed to defeat Laguna Hills four days later to ensure they will be in the title discussion.

Playing on the road again Feb. 11, the Dolphins (20-5, 7-1 league) did just that, breezing their way past the Hawks 78-40 to finish out league play.

The Dolphins had been struggling to hit open jump shots from the perimeter against teams like San Juan Hills and the Mustangs, but found a groove against Laguna Hills.

After shooting a dismal 22 percent from the field against Trabuco Hills, the Dolphins responded with their most efficient

From L to R: Dana Hills seniors Michael Vogeler, Mac Vail, Justin Scott and Jacob Harbin were recently named National Football Foundation & College Football Hall of Fame Scholar-Athletes. Courtesy photo

Dana Point Times February 14-20, 2014

OUTDOOR SPOTLIGHT

COLLEGE LACROSSE ELITE SET TO COMPETE IN SOCAL

The inaugural Pacific Coast Shootout is coming to Southern California, and it is bringing some high-profile heavy hitters of the lacrosse world with it.

The event, which will take place on March 8 at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, will feature matchups between four collegiate lacrosse programs, including an NCAA Division 1 tilt between No. 4 University of Denver and No. 5 Notre Dame. A match between Men’s Collegiate Club Division 1 Loyola Marymount and University of California Santa Barbara will be the other featured match.

shooting night since Dec. 26. Dana Hills fired at a 60 percent clip from the field and made 30 percent of the 3-point shots.

Although he was held relatively in check against the Mustangs, Dolphins senior center James Taylor’s production bounced back in the positive against Laguna Hills. The senior captain poured in a game-high 23 points and grabbed nine rebounds.

The Dolphins will now keep anxious eyes on the match between Trabuco Hills (15-10, 6-1) and San Clemente (12-13, 3-4), set to take place on Feb. 13. If the Mustangs win, they will be co-league champions with the Dolphins. A Trabuco Hills loss will give Dana Hills the title outright.

FOOTBALL PLAYERS NAMED SCHOLAR ATHLETES Four members of the Dana Hills football team were recently recognized by the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame for their achievements in the classroom and on the field.

Michael Vogeler, Mac Vail, Justin Scott and Jacob Harbin were all named scholar athletes by the organization and will be formally recognized at the foundation’s banquet on March 10 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

The criteria for being named to the list are extensive. In order to be eligible, players must be a first-team all-league selection, hold a 3.5 grade point average and display “outstanding leadership and personal attributes.”

Vogeler was a first-team all-Sea View League selection at defensive back. He holds a 3.71 GPA. Vail, the team’s quarterback, was named the league offensive MVP and was a first-team offensive selection. Vail has a 4.05 GPA. Linebacker Justin Scott was a first-team defensive selection and boasts a 4.54 GPA. Offensive lineman Jacob Harbin was named to the first-team offense and has a 3.57 GPA. The four players are among 48 high school and two college football players in Orange County who earned the recognition in 2014. DP

The Pioneers will face the Fighting Irish at 1 p.m. The Gauchos and the Lions will square off at 3:30 p.m.

It’s not often that top-collegiate lacrosse programs come to Southern California. Notre Dame is making its first regular season performance in the area since 2005. It will be just the second time Denver has played on Californian soil.

Former St. Margaret’s Episcopal standout Scott McGowan is a freshman on the Pioneers roster.

“It’s no secret West Coast lacrosse is booming,” event executive director

and head lacrosse coach at Corona del Mar High School G.W. Mix said in a press release. “Each year, more and more players from California are appearing on the rosters of traditional college lacrosse powerhouses. The ultimate goal of the shootout is to promote the high quality of lacrosse being played in California … while exposing these developing players and programs to the best collegiate programs in the game.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.pclaxshootout.com.

—Steve Breazeale

Dana Point’s Van Dyck Creates New SUP Sport

By Steve Breazeale Dana Point Times

T

he popularity of stand-up paddleboarding is on the rise, and boarders are constantly finding new ways to tweak the activity. Dana Point resident Justin Van Dyck is one such person.

He recently created the XSUP SAC, which floats in the water and is designed to be swooped up by a paddle. Van Dyck, a level-3 SUP instructor, initially thought it would be a great teaching tool but as more people started using it, tossing it back and forth to one another, he saw the product’s true potential.

What followed was essentially the creation of a brand new sport, one Van Dyck has dubbed XSUP Games, and he is planning on creating a region-wide league of players and teams that stretches from

San Diego to Malibu.

XSUP Games is played much like soccer, hockey or lacrosse. There are four players on each team, playing on a space of water that is 70 yards long and 30 yards wide. There are two, 10-yard end zones on each side and the goal of each team is to pass the sack to a teammate in the end zone. At the end of the two, 20-minute halves, whoever has the most goals, wins.

“Initially the sack worked as a great tool to get people comfortable on the board,” Van Dyck said. “But it grew from there, more people wanted to play it … I started the idea of the game, incorporating sport into SUP. It’s adding a competitive side and team aspect to it.”

The inaugural XSUP Games 10-week season is set to begin on March 16. For more information on the sport, visit www. xsupgames.com. DP

Stand-up paddleboarders play a round of XSUP Games, which involves throwing a buoyant sack to teammates, attempting to score points. Courtesy photo

Page 16

www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com

Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point area every week?

Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times. Call us today!

949.388.7700 ext. 102 FOR SALE 10 PIECE LANE FORMAL MEDITERRANEAN DINING SET. 1970 solid Cherry Wood.

Hexagonal pedestal dining table, 2 leaves, six cane-backed chairs. Hutch, China Cabinet, Buffet Server. Sold as a set. $1,900 or best offer. Cannot deliver. Must be picked up. Call MaryLou at (949) 366-2464.

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. No phone calls please.

SERVICES LOCAL HOUSEKEEPER OR OFFICE CLEANING Reliable, affordable, meticulous. Excellent references. 949-573-8733

SURF STUFF MENS SMALL WETSUIT Mens Rip Curl Wetsuit, short-arm, full suit. New condition. Size small $85. Call or text 949.533.9761.

LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

ARCHITECTURE - PLANNING

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING Organics Out Back 949.354.2258 449 Avenida Crespi, www.organicsoutback.com

ELECTRICAL

PSYCHIATRY

LOCKSMITH Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

949.496.6916

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Dr. Robert Dobrin, M.D. 949-707-4757 Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry/Behavioral Pediatrics 33971 Selva Rd. Ste, 125

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL

949.661.3984 Nona Associates-Raymond J. Nona A.I.A 949.496.2275 delta G electrical 949.360.9282 Kenny’s Music & Guitars 26901 Camino de Estrella, www.raynona.com 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com CA #657214, www.deltagelectrical.com Dream Team Properties 949.481.1788 Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 Mike Rosenberg, Broker AUTO REPAIR GRAPHIC DESIGN 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com Capistrano Beach, www.FindMyOCHome.com Dana Point Auto 949.496.1086 IMAGES/Creative Solutions 949.366.2488 PET GROOMING UPHOLSTERY 34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, Dana Point, Ca 92629 117 Del Gado Road, www.imgs.com Dawgy Style 949.496.3315 Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, CAFE - DELI ICE CREAM 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com www.alphadoggroomshop.com Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 949.493.7773 Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.7773 WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com PLUMBING 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com Offshore Construction 949.444.6323 A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 COFFEE SHOP INSURANCE SERVICES www.offshoreconstruction.org www.atozleakdetection.com Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 949.493.7773 Patricia Powers 949.496.9731 949.496.1900 Chick’s Plumbing 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com www.chicks-plumbing.com 24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, pat.powers@cox.net State Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.3200 POOL SERVICE & REPAIR CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204 Mills Construction 949.212.7699 www.tedbowersox.com Palisades Pool Service & Repair 949.542.7232 Dana Point, www.millsbuilds.com: CA # 973483 Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 Capistrano Beach, allenesommo@cox.net 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net

DERMATOLOGY

Vorteil Dermatology and 949.276.2600 Aesthetic Science 33971 Selva Road, Ste. 200, www.vorteildermatology.com

LANDSCAPING

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.2648 Organics Out Back 949.354.2258 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, 449 Avenida Crespi, www.organicsoutback.com www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY”

Call Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

DP SURF

6

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

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D a n a Po i nt

GROM OF THE WEEK NOAH HOHENESTER Age: 13, Connections Academy

Noah Hohenester is the No. 1 ranked surfer in the Western Surfing Association Championship Tour Boys U14 Shortboard division and has surfed in a few Surfing America Prime events this season. Noah also competes in the Scholastic Surf Series as a member of the Bernice Ayer Middle School team where he is the No. 4 rated surfer in Boys Shortboard.

Noah is an eighth-grade independent study student homeschooling through Connections Academy. He is an ‘A’ and ‘B’ student focused on preparing for college where he hopes to study marine biology or something else ocean related. Noah enjoys studying math—although he finds it difficult—art and loves that his physical education credit is Noah Hohenester. Photo by Joe Hohenester earned through surfing. “I’d love to make the World Tour but I realize that it will be very difficult,” he said. “I want it bad, but my whole life isn’t depending on it. There are a lot of other things in life, like school and other sports. I really just want to keep having fun surfing and see how far I can go.” Surf travel is something he hopes to continue throughout his life, a dream reinforced by his trip to Nicaragua last year. “There were really good waves and the nature and culture was fun to explore. I really want to go back.” Noah credits his parents with playing a huge part in his success.

“My parents are super supportive and back me up in everything I do,” he said. “I really appreciate their help with surfing, school and making the right decisions.”—Andrea Swayne

Conquering Cortes

RESULTS Surfing America Prime, Event No. 5, February 8-9, San Onofre State Park, Upper Trestles BOYS U18: 1. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente, 16.20; 2.

Jake Davis, Capistrano Beach, 13.00; 3. Kirk Weissinger, Huntington Beach, 10.20; 4. Jason Belgau San Diego, 5.60. GIRLS U18: 1. Steffi Kerson, Thousand Oaks, 13.93; 2. Meah Collins, Costa Mesa, 11.10; 3. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente, 9.23; 4. Ashley Held, Santa Cruz, 6.06.

BOYS U16: 1. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente, 9.17; 2. Kei Kobayashi, San Clemente, 9.00; 3. Nolan Rapoza, Long Beach, 8.46; 4. John Mel, Newport Beach, 8.30. GIRLS U16: 1. Autumn Hays, Santa Cruz, 9.66; 2. Kirra Pinkerton, San Clemente, 9.06; 3. Juli Hernandez, Costa Mesa, 4.60; 4. Meah Collins, Costa Mesa, 3.96. BOYS U14: 1.

Eithan Osborne, Ventura, 16.94; 2. Tommy McKeown, Oxnard, 9.67; 3. Tyler Gunter, Newport Beach, 6.62; 4.

John West, Huntington Beach, 6.50.

Big wave surfer Greg Long returns to Cortes Bank just over a year after near-drowning

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

B

ravery. That, along with massive amounts of training and skill, is a major component in the constitution of a big wave surfer. To take on towering slabs of water in the open ocean atop nothing but a piece of foam and fiberglass is bold to say the least. But to paddle back out after surviving a near-drowning is courageous, for both the physical act and conquering of fear.

In December 2012, 100 miles off the Southern California coast at Cortes Bank, professional big wave surfer Greg Long was pulled from the water unconscious after a three-wave hold down in 30-foot surf nearly cost him his life. He was airlifted— battered, bruised and traumatized—to San Diego where he spent a day in the hospital before returning home to San Clemente.

“Three rescue skis operated by D.K. Walsh, Jon Walla and Frank Quirarte were tracking me following the initial wipeout.

I was quickly located, floating face down alongside my surfboard … they pulled me onto the rescue sled,” Long said, a few days after the incident. “I began regaining consciousness during the ride back to the support boat. Humbly, I express my deepest gratitude to the team of rescuers and fellow surfers whose training and precise response contributed to saving my life.”

One of the most well-trained and highly decorated big wave surfers in the world—from numerous Billabong XXL Big Wave Awards to winning the Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau in 2009— Long embarked on a year of surfing and soul searching. At times he questioned whether he even wanted to continue his

Dana Point Times February 14-20, 2014

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

Greg Long, conquering doubt and fear, returned to Cortes Bank on January 25, just a year after nearly drowning under a three-wave hold down. Photo by Frank Quirarte

dream career. He got right back out there chasing giants all over the world—except Cortes Bank.

His most recent competition was the Body Glove Mavericks Invitational at Half Moon Bay on Jan. 24. Grant “Twiggy” Baker of South Africa took home the win.

Long made the finals and is ranked No. 6 of 54 ranked surfers in the XPRESHON Big Wave World Tour.

“That week was one of the most hectic of my life. While getting ready and focusing for the Mavericks event I was also logistically and mentally preparing to go back to Cortes Bank,” Long said. “I was exhausted before the contest even began so I was happy just to make the finals ... I couldn’t have been more stoked to see Twiggy win. He’s one of my best friends, the most focused and determined big wave surfer in the world right now and deserved to win more than anybody that day.”

The next day Long returned to Cortes Bank, ready for what he has since deemed the most memorable session of his life.

“I got to surf alone for eight hours in the most immaculate of conditions,” Long said. “It wasn’t the biggest day ever by a long shot, but paddling back out there was one of the greatest mental challenges I have ever faced and an experience I will remember forever.”

Footage from Long’s return to Cortes

Bank will be included in a three-episode “World of X Games” series following big wave surfers Long, Baker, Mark Healey, Shane Dorian and Ryan Hipwood on a six-month-long worldwide search for big waves. The series, titled “Hell and High Water” by TAUBLIEB Films and ESPN, is set to air in November on ABC. DP

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SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 59-61 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-12’+ Fair Immediate: Modest west-northwest to northwest swell mix continues. Look for mainly 2-3’ surf to show for the better winter exposures, while select magnets produce occasional slightly larger waves/peaks to chest high.

Light/variable to light offshore flow prevails through the morning under overcast skies, giving way to a light+ westerly sea-breeze through the afternoon. Size holds fairly steady, with generally favorable conditions continuing in the morning, before a westerly sea-breeze develops in the afternoon.

Long Range Outlook: A reinforcing new northwest swell shows through the weekend, as old west-northwest swell mix fades out. Expect size to pick up a notch late Saturday into Sunday.

Winds look to remain favorable for the mornings, before onshore flow develops each afternoon.

Check out Surfline.com for all the details!

NSSA Open, Event No. 7, February 1-2, Dana Point, Salt Creek MEN: 1. Kevin Schulz, San Clemente, 14.33; 2. Micky Clarke, Ventura, 7.83; 3. Ryland Rubens, Pacific Beach, 5.73; 4. Conner Dand, San Clemente, 4.23. JUNIORS: 1. Jake Marshall, Encinitas, 12.33; 2. John Mel, Newport Beach, 8.63; 3. Jordan Collins, Carlsbad, 8.43; 4. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente, 7.64. BOYS: 1. Noah Hill, Malibu, 9.33; 2. Kade Matson, San Clemente, 8.77; 3.

Jett Schilling, San Clemente, 8.27; 4. Taro Watanabe, Malibu, 5.84. MINI GROMS: 1. Levi Slawson, Encinita,s 9.43; 2. Jett Schilling, San Clemente, 8.66; 3. Taj Lindblad, San Clemente, 6.57; 4. Connor Marshall, Encinitas, 3.30.

WOMEN: 1. Tia Blanco, San Clemente, 11.33; 2. Steffi Kerson, Thousand Oaks, 7.57; 3. Samantha Lamirand, Cardiff, 7.47; 4. Moana Jones, Hawaii, 6.47. GIRLS: 1.

Moana Jones, Hawaii, 6.00; 2. Sydney Tisdel, Carlsbad, 4.06; 3. Kailani Jones, Hawaii, 3.04; 4. Alyssa Spencer, Carlsbad, 1.87.

UPCOMING EVENTS February 15-16: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 7, Huntington Beach, Pier March 1-2: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 8, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty March 1-2: NSSA Open, Event No. 8, Ventura, C Street March 22: SSS, OC Middle School and High School, Event No. 5, Huntington Beach, Goldenwest Street March 22-23: NSSA Explorer, Events No. 9 and 10, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty March 29-30: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 9, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach March 29-30: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 9, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach April 19-20: NSSA Open, Event No. 9, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty April 26-27: NSSA Open, Event No. 10, San Onofre State Park, Upper Trestles May 10-11: WSA West Coast Championships, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach May 15-18: NSSA West Coast Championships, Huntington Beach, Pier May 31-June 1: Surfing America Prime, Event No. 6, Oceanside, Harbor North Jetty (New date) June 13-15: Surfing America USA Championships, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach June 17-21: Surfing America USA Championships, San Onofre State Park, Lower Trestles

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