May 12, 2017

LO C A L

N EWS

May 12-18, 2017

YO U

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Inside:

Doheny Blues Festival Event Guide SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 10, ISSUE 19

Charity Leaguers

Dana Point women discuss organization, giving back and more E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 5

The Sunshine Readers sit with the kids during a PJ story time at the Dana Point Library. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

Dana Point Business Owner Files Lawsuit against City EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Inside: Mother’s Day Gift Guide SPECIAL SECTION

www.danapointtimes.com

Dana Hills’ Softball Sweeps Away Competition to Claim League Title SPORTS/PAGE 24

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

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING the entire bill and have their citizens build it.”

Hennessey said in an interview that it was unfortunate people didn’t see the advertising.

“Some people didn’t understand that weren’t at the event or didn’t see the advertising, it was clearly a protest against the government building a wall,” Hennessey said. “It’s kind of ridiculous to be spending the money on that.”

He said the restaurant put the event’s advertising online and inside their restaurant. Hennessey said it read “We’re building a wall, it’s not what you think.” He said it also read ,“Tacos trump hate.”

WHAT’S NEXT: In response to his Facebook comments, some people felt he didn’t apologize for the event, while others felt the event was not creating a dialogue at all. —KP

Tom Youdbulis, a local artist, poses in front of some of pieces of art at the Alice Rice Gallery in Laguna Beach.

Youdbulis will be one of the featured artists at the Dana Point Fine Arts Association Mother’s Day show and sale. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week

Local Artist Prepares for Mother’s Day Fine Arts Show THE LATEST: Tom Youdbulis, a local artist in Dana Point looked over his pieces that currently hang inside the Alice Rice Art Gallery in Laguna Beach. All the pieces were of the ocean, which he said is his favorite thing to paint.

“It’s ever-changing,” Youdbulis said.

“I like to paint the ocean, but water in general.”

This weekend, Youdbulis will feature his work during the Dana Point Fine Arts Association’s outdoor art show.

The Dana Point Fine Arts Association is a nonprofit that annually donates a portion of their show’s proceeds to the Dana Hills High School Art Department.

The show will take place from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, and guests will be able to speak with the artists. Guests can view the fine art at the Dana Point Harbor boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village, on the east side of Coffee Importers.

Watercolor, oil, acrylic, colored pencil, pastels and photography by a variety of artists will be available for sale.

Youdbulis said he’s excited for the show, and likes that it falls on Mother’s Day because his own mom played a big role in his career.

Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

Police Chief to Speak at Upcoming Coffee Chat

“She’s one of the reasons I paint,” Youdbulis said. “She’s always backed me on my work.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The show is weather permitting. If canceled no make-up date will be arranged. The association holds shows throughout the year. For more information, visit www.danapointfinearts. org. —Kristina Pritchett

Hennessey’s Tavern’s Cinco de Mayo Event Outrages Locals with Inflatable Wall, Drink ‘Green’ Card THE LATEST: Backlash was swift following a Cinco de Mayo event at Hennessey’s Tavern in Dana Point that involved inviting patrons to climb an inflatable “border” wall to earn a green card that came with free drinks.

After the event began, a local woman posted to social media to voice her disapproval.

“Hennessy’s in Dana Point California is having a Cinco De Mayo event where people can climb a “wall” to get a “green card”... Yep this is really happening.

Disgusting. #America2017 #cincodemayo #trumpsamerica @ Hennessey’s Tavern,” Laycee Barragato Gibson shared on Facebook.

From there, her post had more than 50 comments 200 shares.

After the event, owner Paul Hennessey wrote on the restaurant’s Facebook page, “I would like to thank everyone for your comments about our climbing wall. Our intentions were to create a dialogue and show how ridiculous that it is to spend tens of millions of dollars to build a wall and even infer that Mexico foot some or

THE LATEST: The Dana Point Police Chief will be the featured guest during the Dana Point Civic Association’s Coffee Chat on Friday, May 19.

Police Chief Russ Chilton will discuss a variety of topics including the sheriff’s new facility at City Hall, crime statistics, the city’s neighborhood watch program as well as mailbox/package thefts.

Coffee Chat is held the third Friday of every month at Coffee Importers in the Dana Point Harbor.

WHAT’S NEXT: Complimentary coffee will be provided for those who attend, courtesy of Jim Miller, DPCA president. —KP

Dana Point Business Owner Files Lawsuit against City THE LATEST: Thomas Volkmann, owner of Dana Point Foreign Car Service, recently filed a lawsuit against the city claiming it violated his rights.

According to the lawsuit filed in Orange County Superior Court on April 14, the city “unlawfully coerced” Volkmann into executing an agreement to close the auto repair operations on the property to avoid criminal sanctions threatened by the city.

It said any such agreement was under duress and was induced by the city’s unlawful conduct.

The court documents said during the construction along Del Prado, direct access to Volkmann’s business was removed, which “was unreasonable and substantial” because it eliminated direct access to an abutting street and left the property with only a non-conforming

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entry point from a rear alley.

The document continues to say the city’s conduct in removing the direct access rights constitutes damaging the plaintiff’s property and business rights.

In 1958 the original owner received a pproval for a use variance permit. In 1969 when the owner applied for another permit to expand the business, the Board of Supervisors issued a resolution with conditions.

According to the document, the original owner never expanded and never used that permit, which then expired and became void as a matter of law one year after its issuance. And because it was void, the permit’s conditions had no effect; therefore, Volkmann could not be forced to close his business or to comply with the conditions of the permit.

In August 2015, the city said Volkmann failed to comply with a permit that expired and was void. In October 2016, Volkmann signed an agreement to close the business no later than Aug. 31, 2017.

The lawsuit said that at the time of the agreement, Volkmann was unaware of the inaccuracies of the city’s claims.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to the lawsuit, Volkmann is asking for damages for litigation expenses, for costs of suit incurred and for other relief the court deems appropriate. —KP

Advisory Issued after Sharks Spotted Near Capistrano Beach THE LATEST: On Wednesday, May 10, Orange County Sheriff’s Department made an announcement from their helicopter that 15 sharks were spotted near Capo Beach and San Onofre.

The announcement warned swimmers and surfers to calmly exit the water Wednesday afternoon.

“You are paddleboarding next to approximately 15 great white sharks, [OC Parks] is advising you exit the water in a calm manner. The sharks are as close as the surf line,” an officer said during the video.

Later, the officer asked beachgoers to stay out of the water.

During the video, the deputies said the sharks were south of Doheny State Beach in Capo Beach.

WHAT’S NEXT: Mark Allen, lifeguard chief for the South Sector, said the beach did not close, but there was an advisory issued and will remain in effect until Friday.

The lifeguards will reassess the advisory on Saturday morning.

To see the video the sheriff’s department posted, visit www.danapointtimes. com. —KP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

James Makshanoff, left, the city manager of San Clemente, receives a check for $20,000 from Julia Darden of San Clemente Pier Pride on Sunday, May 7, at the Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar. Photo: Courtesy of Dakota Ruiz

News Next Door

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

SAN CLEMENTE Pier Pride Raises Money for City’s Icon Pier Pride, an organization committed to the welfare of the San Clemente Pier, donated $20,000 to the city of San Clemente on Sunday, May 7.

“This is the first big thing we’ve been able to do,” said Jim Nielsen, a member of the group.

Nielsen said the money goes to the painting of the Pier, and an anonymous donor gave $50,000 to $60,000 worth of labor for the job.

“Now we’re looking at significant things, if we can get them rolling,” Nielsen said.

“We’ve moved on to better cleaning and figuring out how to clean the filth at the end of the Pier.”

Nielsen said the organization is looking to put on an event sometime in June to showcase to potential “major sponsors” as well as continue to work with local design business RSM Design. For more information, visit www.pierpride.org. —Eric Heinz

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO San Juan City Council Moves to Legalize Beekeeping Members of the San Juan Capistrano City Council are often split when voting on the town’s many contentious issues, but on May 2, Council members found common ground among the honey bees.

Councilman Derek Reeve asked his peers to consider directing staff to craft an ordinance that would legalize raising honey bees within city limits. The Council voted unanimously to support initiating that change.

Reeve said he initially drafted an ordinance about three years ago, when he used to have Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

a hobby honey bee farm/business. Reeve said he learned a lot during that process, including the fact that a number of people in town raise honey bees, but it’s technically illegal in certain zones.

“It’s really become quite common in urbanized settings and cities like ours to be more flexible and actually encourage honey cultivation and honey bees,” he said.

Reeve said an ordinance would provide guidance and regulations for homeowners wishing to raise bees and cultivate honey.

“Given our culture right now in this country, and certainly within San Juan Capistrano with the desire to be more organic, natural and healthy, I think this is just the right time,” Reeve said.

Councilwoman Pam Patterson and Mayor Kerry Ferguson applauded the idea, saying it could help increase the honey bee population, which has been experiencing significant die-offs nationwide.

The Council’s unanimous vote directs city staff to bring back an ordinance for consideration, but not on a specific timeline.

City staff reported at the meeting that the legalization of beekeeping would entail a land use code amendment, or possibly a general plan amendment, which will also be required. A series of public hearings at the Planning Commission level before returning to the Council for final approval.

—Allison Jarrell Page 4

EYE ON DP

Charity Leaguers

Dana Point women discuss organization, giving back and more

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT, DANA POINT TIMES

I

nside one of the conference rooms at the Dana Point Library, a group of teenagers read stories to a handful of younger kids. The teens’ faces were full of emotion, their voices changed as they read from different characters and the kids were grinning as each page was turned.

The storytime is part of the Sunshine Readers, which was founded by one of the National Charity League mother daughter teams more than 25 years ago.

Currently, the program is at six libraries in South Orange County and helps children learn in a fun, interactive way.

“It teaches the girls diction, public speaking skills, gives them confidence and empowerment,” said Julia Johnson, founder of the program. “I want them to have power when they get in front of a crowd.”

During the Monday evening reading, she stood by and took notes as each of the girls read. She offered professional criticism and smiled as the children on the rug were engaged with the story.

“They get to become leaders, and they learn how to build kids up,” Johnson said.

But, the Sunshine Readers is just one way to make the young women leaders.

They’re part of a mother-daughter organization known as the National Charity League, Laguna Chapter.

NCL is a nonprofit organization comprised of mother and daughter members across the country who honor the maternal bond. NCL empowers young women with the skills and confidence to lead, mentor one another, and provide support to their communities.

“The focus is to honor the motherdaughter bond,” said Chapter President Kelly Redden. “It’s special time with our daughters by serving the community.”

Not only do they serve the community and gain leadership skills, they learn about cultural experiences.

The girls are eligible to join NCL when they’re entering seventh grade, and continue until they are seniors in high school.

The Laguna chapter works with more than 20 different South Orange County organizations including the Ocean Institute, Family Assistance Ministries, the Shea Center and more. Redden said as the girls grow and mature, they’re able to work with different philanthropies, and they’re able to create their own if they see a specific need in the community.

One of the chapter’s moms said she wanted to join an organization dedicated Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

Members of the National Charity League, Laguna Chapter, participate in multiple fundraisers throughout the year. Photo: Courtesy

Shannon Cleary, a Dana Point resident, reads from her book during Sunshine Readers PJ story time at the Dana Point Library. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

to mother-daughter teams and community service.

“We’re all doers. We like to get involved and give back to the community,” Tori Cleary said about the group. “We also place value on teaching our kids the importance of giving back.”

For the older girls that have been volunteering for six years with a handful of organizations said it’s been an eye opening experience.

“The term OC bubble comes up a lot,” Kate Redden said. “It’s kind of like we’re in this very sheltered place, we’re in a very affluent place where not a lot of bad things happen. It’s a very comfortable lifestyle which I’m thankful for, and we don’t have to face some of the violence that other places do. Until I joined NCL, I didn’t see how many people in our community still need help despite the stereotype.”

Shannon Clary said by working with Orangewood, a children’s home in Orange County, she’s learned she wants to keep working with kids.

Although the girls rack up the volunteering hours, NCL is not just about that.

“We develop (the girls’) leadership

skills and social etiquette,” Redden said.

“We believe teaching the girls these things is important to move forward in life.”

All of these lessons lead to a debutante ball and a mother-daughter tea.

When one hears the word etiquette and debutante ball, they may think it’s an old tradition. To the NCL Laguna chapter, they continue the tradition and cherish it.

“It’s one of the things that is a testament to NCL,” Redden said. “For our senior girls, it’s a way of debuting them. It’s a lovely evening and we acknowledge their six years of service to the community.”

Redden said their chapter is one of five in the country that continues to hold the ball.

“They have to practice walking in heels, they wear a white gown which has clearly defined guidelines,” Redden said. “They’re given a medallion and there’s a St. James bow they have to do. (The bow) would probably be the most outdated for today’s lifestyle.”

Across the table Kellie’s youngest daughter Lily grinned.

“I’m excited for the ball,” Lily said. “I want a dress.”

Lily is one of the younger members of

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the group, but has an older sister, Kate, to guide her.

A few weeks ago, Shannon and Kate talked to new members and said there was a large crowd. Instead of getting nervous, they remembered the skills they’ve learned throughout their years with the NCL. “I was asked to talk in front of the new members, and if I didn’t have NCL and Sunshine Readers, I wouldn’t have been able to do it,” Kate said. “I would’ve sat quietly in the back.”

Shannon nodded and recalled before joining NCL she was terrified to speak in front of a group.

“I would shake,” Shannon said laughing.

Now, they both said speaking to a group is no longer a problem for them.

Each age group, or class, is taught to hold meetings, and run for elected positions.

“When these girls get to be seniors, it’s impressive to watch,” said Michelle Hoover said.

Kate and Shannon are graduating in just a few weeks and when they were asked about how they felt spending so much time with their moms during their teenage years, they smiled.

“I really enjoy having that time with my mom,” Kate said. “It’s nice because it gets really busy in high school, it’s really nice when you go to a philanthropy and you’re with your mom. It gives you a nice break from it all.”

At the end of the conversation, Kate said she will miss spending time with her mom and Lily the most.

As the year winds down the girls will continue to volunteer and possibly create their own philanthropies. The seniors will be recognized during the debutante ball in December.

For more information about the organization, visit www.nationalcharityleague. org. DP

Julia Swanson holds up her project for a charity.

Photo: Courtesy

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Community Blotter Meetings

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Ocean Hill Drive, 33400 Block (7:03 p.m.) A caller told police there was a man wearing a “K9” polo shirt and was reportedly passing himself as a K9 officer with his dog off the leash.

COMPILED BY STAFF

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Farmers Market

9 a.m. There will be fresh produce and treats for sale at the Farmers Market.

La Plaza Park. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point. 949.279.3122.

Recycling Drive

9-11 a.m. A plastic bottle and aluminum can drive will be held at Dana Hills High School to help raise funds for the school. 33333 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

MONDAY, MAY 15

South Orange County: Under the Flight Path

6 p.m. A community forum is planned to discuss commercial aircraft flight paths and the noise impact of South Orange County cities. Laguna Niguel City Hall. 30111 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel. For more information, contact James Dinwiddie at 714.834.3550 or james.dinwiddie@ocgov.com.

City Council/Planning Commission Citywide Parking Workshop

6 p.m. The public workshop will discuss parking concerns and potential solutions that may be applied to the city.

Dana Point Community Center.

34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

City Council Meeting

6 p.m. Members of the City Council will meet in Council Chambers. Dana Point City Hall. 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. www.danapoint.org.

Because I Love You (BILY) Meeting

7-9 p.m. every Tuesday. BILY helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. 119 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente. www.bilysc.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

Third Thursday Mixer

5:30 p.m. Join the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce to network with businesses at Mahé Restaurant. Tickets are $12 for Chamber members, and $20 for prospective members or guests. 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. www.danapointchamber.com.

Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

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.

Tuesday, May 9 VANDALISM IN PROGRESS Street of the Golden Lantern, 33900 Block (5:17 p.m.) Police were called for graffiti on the slide, walls and other property.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Beach Road (1:39 p.m.) Police were called for a man that was seen throwing rocks at houses and passing vehicles.

VANDALISM IN PROGRESS Del Obispo Street, 34200 Block (1:57 p.m.) A man reportedly tore the door off the bathroom stall.

PETTY THEFT Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (11:55 a.m.) A man reportedly put a long-sleeved shirt on under his hoodie and left the store.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Street of the Violet Lantern (9:39 a.m.) A rollup garage door was broken, and the caller said someone grabbed something from the garage and ran. The caller said there were three other people near the property but was unsure if they were the homeowners.

VANDALISM IN PROGRESS Del Obispo Street/ Dana Point Harbor Drive (3:06 p.m.) A caller told police they saw a man throw a rock at the window and smash it.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Via Verde/Dana Bluff West (10:13 a.m.) Police were called for a group of men who reportedly were seen passing around a joint.

Sunday, May 7 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Mariner Drive, 23700 Block (11:36 p.m.) People were reportedly being “loud and obnoxious.”

VANDALISM IN PROGRESS Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (8:23 p.m.) A caller told police someone slashed four tires and walked through the complex.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-NON INJURY Street of the Golden Lantern/Camino del Avion (5:23 p.m.) Two vehicles were involved in an accident and the drivers were reportedly in an argument.

RECKLESS DRIVING Camino El Molino, 34300 Block (2:10 p.m.) Police were called for a man riding an ATV up and down the street.

DISTURBANCE Camino Capistrano, 34700 Block (9:10 a.m.) A caller said a tenant at the house was throwing paint cans at the caller.

DISTURBANCE Domingo Avenue, 25900 Block (8:19 a.m.) Three people were sitting on the church sign and when asked to leave, they refused.

BURGLARY IN PROGRESS Crown Valley Parkway, 32800 Block (8:13 a.m.) A caller told police the screen was off the window and wasn’t sure if anyone was inside.

Monday, May 8 PROPERTY FOR DESTRUCTION Street of the Amber Lantern, 34100 Block (9:51 p.m.)

A woman told police that people were in her open garage doing drugs. The woman said they ran away but left the baggie and wanted deputies to pick it up.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (7:48 p.m.) Police were called for a man seen holding a cup and stumbling into traffic.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Via Orvieto, 22800 Block (7:02 p.m.) A woman told police she heard a loud boom, possibly from a cannon. She told police this was the second night in a row the noise occurred.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Street of the Park Lantern, 25100 Block (8:24 a.m.) Police were called for a man who reportedly exposed himself.

Saturday, May 6 DISTURBANCE Dana Strand Road, 34300 Block (3:25 p.m.) Police were called for skateboarders going across tables and stairs. The caller said people had to move out of the way because they were recording it.

DISTURBANCE Street of the Silver Lantern, 33700 Block (3:25 p.m.) A woman told police her neighbors kept jumping on her roof.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE Calle Portola, 34300 Block (1:24 p.m.) A woman was seen throwing a bike from her vehicle.

GRAND THEFT Mariner Drive, 23600 Block (2:24 p.m.) A woman told police she saw a man take her outdoor table and walk into the building next door.

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DISTURBANCE Street of the Golden Lantern, 32500 Block (11:57 am.) A caller told police a family was panhandling in front of the store and wanted them to move because it was “starting to feel like Tijuana.”

Friday, May 5 PETTY THEFT Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (8:34 p.m.) Police were told two people took a bottle of wine and then stood in front of the business.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Del Obispo Street/ Stonehill Drive (2:32 p.m.) A caller told police a dog was inside of a vehicle and looked distressed.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE Scenic Drive, 34500 Block (9:07 a.m.) An older vehicle with all the doors open was seen in the area with a jacket and shoes on top.

BURGLARY IN PROGRESS Robles Drive, 33800 Block (2:03 a.m.) A caller said her friend was awakened by noises, and someone was reportedly trying to break into her vehicle.

She said the screen at the downstairs neighbor’s window was off and they were possibly trying to break into the house.

Thursday, May 4 RECKLESS DRIVING Village Road/Cambridge Road (10:37 p.m.) A driver was seen driving at a high rate of speed through the neighborhood.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street, 34000 Block (10:03 p.m.) People were seen playing basketball after hours.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE Via Verde/Dana Bluff West (8:32 p.m.) Police were called for two vehicles parked at the end of the street.

The caller said there was possible drug activity occurring, but when deputies responded they said there was no illegal or criminal activity.

DISTURBANCE Regatta Way, 0 Block (8:08 p.m.) Police were called for a man that was heard screaming, yelling and continuously entering the bathroom.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Ritz-Carlton Drive (7:52 p.m.) A caller told police a man was watching the sunset and looked at that caller in a frightening way.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-UNKNOWN INJURIES Street of the Silver Lantern/Pacific Coast Highway (6:26 p.m.) A vehicle and a pedestrian were involved in an accident. The Orange County Fire Authority was called.

BURGLARY Seastar Court, 0 Block (1:59 p.m.) A caller told police they noticed cash, jewelry and electronics were missing from their bedroom when they returned from vacation, but it didn’t look like there was forced entry. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP Dana Point Woman Publishes Work to Inspire Others

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT

Coding Queens Receives First Place for Design

A Dana Point author aims to inspire, uplift and give hope to others with her book, Take a Moment, Inspirational Darts to the Heart.

Karen Lewman, a Monarch Beach resident, said she published the work to inspire those who are going through a challenging time.

The book includes photographs, quotes and affirmations to inspire others.

“During my cancer recovery almost 12 years ago, I looked forward to daily notes from my husband to keep me in a positive frame of mind so I could completely heal,” Lewman said.

The book is available as a paperback and an e-book. For more information, visit www.bookstore.balboapress.com and search for Karen Marie Lewman.

The all-girls fifth-graders from John S. Malcom Elementary School won first place in design at the 2017 Vex Robotics World competition.

Vex Robotics allows the girls to build, code and compete with their robot during competitions. Their robot, Zippy, completes a variety of complicated tasks depending on the year’s game.

The team consists of Gabriella Backus, Sophia Mantucca, Riley Divel, Lily Placey, Adalee Geiss and Maryan Malkosh.

In total, there were 14,000 kids participating from 44 countries.

Friends of Dana Point Library Celebrate Work of Volunteers The Friends of the Dana Point Library recently held a luncheon to thank volunteers for their hard work. During the lunch, Laura Seely, a Dana Point artist, gave a drawing lesson and shared her illustrated award winning books.

Dana Point Deputy Named Top Law Enforcement Officer During a recent City Council meeting,

Business Beat

News from Dana Point’s business community DANA POINT TIMES

Recently Opened ROSEN LAW OFFICES, P.C. 24901 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Suite A-150, Dana Point. 949.305.0020. www.snrosenlaw.com.

Stephen Rosen, a 1999 Dana Hills High School graduate, recently opened his law firm in the Dana Point Harbor.

Although Rosen works in multiple offices, he decided to open his own firm in Stephen Rosen, a Dana Dana Point because Hills High School grad- of his love for the uate, recently opened city. his law office in Dana Rosen said he Point. Photo: Courtesy enjoys getting his of Stephen Rosen Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

The Coding Queens of John S. Malcom Elementary School were named first in design for their robot during the Vex World competition. Photo: Courtesy of the Coding Queens

Deputy Zachariah Scott was awarded the VFW National Award for being the top law enforcement officer of the year.

Scott was previously selected by the Dana Point VFW Post 9934 as the law enforcement officer of the year. After receiving top marks locally, he received first place in the VFW Southern California district, then placed first at VFW State level.

In addition to Scott, Captain Justin Neville from O.C. Fire Station #10 in Dana Point was named first at the Southern Cali-

business involved with the community and has sponsored a couple of teams at Dana Hills High School.

“It gave me the foundation of who I am today,” Rosen said referring to Dana Hills High School.

Rosen said he has a small staff, and the firm is boutique style so he can better serve his clients.

“They deserve the attention they’re paying for,” Rosen said. “I treat my clients like they’re family.”

Primarily Rosen said he focuses on personal injury and some business law litigation.

Rosen was a defense counselor for seven years dealing with personal injury lawsuits. He graduated from Loyola Law School and is a member of the California and Nevada Bar.

Ribbon Cutting PIAZZA WELLNESS CENTER 24941 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.371.7701. www.piazzawellness.com.

Regina Piazza is not new to the fitness

fornia district level, and second at the state level for the top firefighter of the year.

Reserve Officer Jason Smigel from O.C. Fire Station #7 in San Juan Capistrano was selected by the Post as the top EMT officer of the year. He was named first in Southern California at the district level, and second at the state level.

“We are blessed to have such dedicated public servants keeping our cities safe,” said Wayne Yost, senior vice-commander for the Post.

Karen Lewman, a Dana Point woman, poses with her book Take a Moment, Inspirational Darts to the Heart, which she hopes inspires others. Photo: Courtesy

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

The Piazza Wellness Center celebrated its opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, May 5.

Photo: Kristina Pritchett

scene in Dana Point.

She previously owned the Shredded Fox, a fitness studio that closed due to construction from the Raintree development, but now has expanded her services into the Piazza Wellness Center.

At the Wellness Center, Piazza offers her clients different fitness options as well as ways to help make healthier lifestyle

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choices.

Piazza, a nurse practitioner and a certified personal trainer, said she wants to use her passion and knowledge to help clients with injury prevention, customized programs and lifestyle changes.

“I love my job and my clients,” said Piazza. “I’m looking forward to having [this] in the community to help them.” www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Council’s Corner by Richard Viczorek

Let’s Get Our Priorities Straight

T

here has been a lot of discussion recently about the financial health of our city. And whether you believe our city is on sound financial footing or is headed off the fiscal cliff, there is general agreement that, looking forward, the city should take action now to ensure expenditures do not outpace revenues in the long term.

I have heard some community leaders advocate that their solution is to raise taxes and fees to increase government revenues. As a fiscal conservative, this is not my first instinct when facing a possible budget deficit. Rather, we must first look at reigning in spending. This does not mean that we should not spend any money. However, it does mean evaluating specific line items in the proposed budget, no matter the size. Although $10,000 here or $20,000 there may not at first seem that significant in a $36 million budget, eventually it can add up to significant savings.

Looking at the line items in the budget also allows us to identify where our priorities lie as a community. As a result, I have reviewed the proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) 2018-19. I found you several examples that I do not believe represent our community’s priorities. The first item that jumped out at me was that the city has budgeted $25,000 in both FY 18-19 to sponsor the State of the City address. For those who are unaware of what this is, it is an annual event where the mayor presents a speech regarding the city to those active in our community (usually at one of our 5-star hotels). While it is a worthwhile event, I don’t agree that our city should spend $25,000 each year for our mayor to make a speech.

The proposed budget also includes

Letters to the Editor ADDRESS THE CITY EQUALLY ANNETTE SZLACHTA-McGINN, Dana Point

I attended the City Council meeting on April 18, and I was disappointed by the city’s ongoing dichotomous approach to keeping our disparate neighborhoods nuisance-free.

On the one hand, as passionately elucidated by a Capistrano Beach resident during the public comments portion of the meeting, that neighborhood has played host to sober-living homes for years, The residents have had to tolerate the attendant disruptions that such homes inflict on a community.

On the other hand, as evidenced by the Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

$20,000 in FY18 and another $20,000 in FY19 to sponsor the Dana Point Symphony. This comes at the same time as the sponsorship for the Dana Point Grand Prix Bike Race, which has been reduced from $20,000 in FY17 to $10,000 in FY18 and then eliminated altogether in FY19. This raises the question: why has the symphony been spared from any cuts? This question must be asked when considering that the symphony plays in a church in a residential neighborhood while the bike race attracts thousands of people to the Lantern District with results in benefits to our small businesses.

Also, the symphony sells GUEST OPINION tickets, pays an executive Council's Corner

By Rick Viczorek director and has many wealthy patrons who could support it privately. How long must the city continue to subsidize this? Similar to the bike race, the symphony has been around long enough and must eventually stand on its own. I suggest the city reduce its sponsorship to $10,000 in FY18 and phase it out entirely in FY19.

The last item I noted is that the proposed budget has eliminated funding for the Dana Point BBQ Championship.

While this will result in substantial savings for the city ($90,000), this funding is not proposed to be phased out (e.g. $45,000 in FY18 then down to zero in FY19) which would give the event an opportunity to see if it could stand on its own. This concerns me because there is a hidden cost to losing this event that most residents may not understand. Our local VFW Post Council’s unanimous vote to install ropes at the Strand beach and the city’s tolerance for wasting taxpayer fund on this issue. It is clear to me which residents’ and neighborhoods’ wishes receive the utmost consideration. I understand the city wants to put this debacle behind them.

I urge the Council, as they move forward with management and development plans for the city, to address each neighborhood’s needs in an equitable manner and to balance the unique demands of each microcommunity with the city as a whole.

ISSA AND THE SYRIAN REFUGEE CRISIS PHUONG NGUYEN, Dana Point

Darrell Issa recently published an op-ed in The Huffington Post calling for American leadership to solve the Syrian refugee crisis. He begins with heart-wrenching descriptions of the sarin gas attack. Instead

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

9934 is a significant beneficiary of funds raised at this event. (Full and transparent disclosure: I am a proud member of VFW Post 9934.) But while this potential loss of funding concerns me, it is not for personal reasons. Rather it is because of what it would mean to the community.

The VFW is a nonprofit, volunteer organization dedicated to serving veterans and their families. Neither I, nor any other member of our Post, receives remuneration for our time and efforts. This means that every dollar raised by the VFW is spent for the benefit of our local veterans and their families. For example, in the last year, our Post provided over $55,000 to help those who needed assistance paying their rent, mortgages or car loans, the VFW also helped those who needed their cars repaired to get to work and those in need of extra food and diapers. This list is not exhaustive.

Sometimes there is more to a budget than just the numbers. How we decide to spend money can be just as important as how much we spend. Perhaps there are other ways we can support our military veterans than the BBQ Championship.

As illustrated above, I believe the budget as currently proposed falls short as an expression of this community’s values and priorities. We need to get it right.

Editor’s Note: The proposed budget can be viewed online at www.danapoint.org/home/ showdocument?id=21964.

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

of offering compassion, he concludes that immigration/refugee policy is the incorrect debate to have in response to Syria.

Instead, he argues that the U.S. should commit to a military strategy. While I agree that a comprehensive military policy is necessary, that does not mean that the U.S. cannot also be a leader in humanitarian efforts. I call on Rep. Issa for leadership by doing the right thing and sponsoring a bill that would increase the number of Syrian refugees that the U.S. accepts to address this urgent need and to save lives. True leadership is strength and compassion and the courage to deviate from the party line.

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.

Page 12

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.danapointtimes.com

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Kristina Pritchett, 949.388.7700, x113 kpritchett@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

City Editor, DP Times > Kristina Pritchett City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed

Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale

Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Special Projects Editor > Andrea Papagianis

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Jake Howard Debra Holm Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 10, Issue 19. 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 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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years old, he could Air Race. In 1989 hi record with his ban nomination for a Gr when Led Zeppelin Fame in January 19 Zeppelin reunion w Jones and Robert Pl

The Doheny Blues Festival is returning to Dana Point to celebrate its 20th anniversary with three alternating stages filled with blues, rock and soul music on May 20 and 21. Legendary Eagles’ guitarist Joe Walsh and platinumselling artist Melissa Etheridge are set to headline the two-day event. Among them, artists like Jason Bonham, Chris Isaak and Mavis Staples. The weekend long festival will feature more than 20 acts performing in the beachfront venue of Doheny State Beach. An international food court, a vendor village, wine lounge, VIP viewing areas and a free bike valet will be available for guests to enjoy while listening to blues on the beach.

JOE WALSH

Guitarist Joe Walsh is best known for his contributions to the Eagles as well as his early work with the James Gang and Barnstorm. His guitar work on “Hotel California” was named the eighth greatest guitar solo by Guitar World Magazine. Walsh has played alongside Paul McCartney and Bruce Springsteen, has appeared on the Foo Fighters 2014 Sonic Highways album, he was high in demand as a collaborator, produce and a guest musician. He has received five Grammy Awards with the Eagles, and his songs, both solo and with the Eagles, have placed on the Billboard music charts. In 1998 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and then was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2001.

Blue Velvet, Married hits include “Wicked Thing” and “Somebo has been a judge on The Chris Isaak Sho channel. Isaak is a G and Best Rock Voca

MELISSA ETHERIDGE

Melissa Etheridge is one of rock music’s great female icons. Her critically acclaimed debut album was certified double platinum. Etheridge’s popularity built around such memorable songs as “Bring Me Some Water,” “No Souvenirs” and “Ain’t It Heavy” for which she won her first Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal. Etheridge hit her commercial and artistic stride with her fourth album, Yes I Am, featuring the massive hits “I’m the Only One” and “Come to My Window,” a song of longing that brought her a second Grammy.

Etheridge is also an Oscar winner for Best Original Song in 2007.

In 2011 Melissa made her Broadway debut as St. Jimmy in Green Day’s rock opera, American Idiot, and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

60 years, the iconic changes, always ris helped create the D her family, known a and freedom songs heard on the radio for a 2003 Grammy Vocals.

TICKETS A DOHEN

JASON BONHAM

Over the years, Jason Bonham gained momentum with his musical career and continued to carry the tribute of his father, legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham. Since he was a young boy he shared his musical talents with a number of artists. At 5 play the drums and at 17 he was in the band is song, “Wait for You,” earned him a gold nd Bonham. The record’s success brought a rammy Award. Jason represented his father was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of 995. In 2007, he played the drums in the Led with surviving members Jimmy Page, John Paul lant.

CHRIS ISAAK

With a reputation as one of the best and funniest live performers, Chris Isaak will be sure to have an enjoyable performance. He’s a Grammynominated singer-songwriter, actor and talk show host. Some of his songs have been featured in films including d to the Mob and Wild at Heart. Some of his d Game,” “Forever Blue,” “Baby did a Bad Bad ody’s Crying.” Isaak has acted in several films, n X Factor Australia, starred in Showtime’s ow and the Chris Isaak Hour on the Biography Grammy Award winner for Best Rock Album al Performance-Male.

MAVIS STAPLES

Mavis Staples is an alchemist of American music, and has continuously crossed genre lines like no musician since Ray Charles. Weaving herself into the very fabric of gospel, soul, folk, pop, R&B, blues, rock, and even hip hop over the better part of the last c singer has seen and sung through so many sing up to meet every road unwaveringly. She Delta-inflected gospel sound in the 1950s with as the Staples Singers. She’s engaged protest s of the Civil Rights movement and has been for a number of years. She was nominated y Award in the Best Pop Collaboration with

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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

Photo: Courtesy of iHeartYoga

SATURDAY, MAY 13: SUP YOGA 8-9:30 a.m. Join Westwind Sailing and iHeartYoga for stand-up paddleboard yoga. Classes are $35 with board rental, $25 without. Sign up at iheartyoga.com. The class is the second Saturday of every month. Westwind Sailing, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point.

The List

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

Friday | 12 LIVE MUSIC: WATERMAN’S HARBOR 4-7 p.m. Join Waterman’s Harbor for live music with Hans & Janine every Friday.

Waterman’s Harbor. 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

SCHS & SHORECLIFFS JAZZ CONCERT 5-6:30 p.m. Experience live jazz performed by the students of San Clemente High School and Shorecliffs Middle School to kick off the city’s music and movie series. The concert is located on the beach, north of the San Clemente Pier. Bring a towel or beach chair to enjoy the sunset. Free seating in the sand. Fisherman’s Restaurant will offer a full BBQ meal for $8. www.san-clemente.org.

CASA COMEDY: WHICH TEAM IS FUNNIER? 7 p.m. Two improv teams compete to see who gets the most laughs from the audience at Casa Romantica. The event is put on by Comedy Sportz, an organization with professional and high school comedy leagues nationwide. The Casa’s show features the Los Angeles professional team. Casa Romantica is offering bulk discounts to student members of Comedy Sportz high school leagues. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

LIVE THEATER: ‘THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS’ 8 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse presents this classic happy-go-lucky view of small town vice and statewide political side-stepping through the demise of the Chicken Ranch, known since the 1850’s as one of the better pleasure palaces in all of Texas. Show runs through May 21.

Tickets are $29-$39. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www. caminorealplayhouse.org.

LIVE THEATER: ‘ALMOST, MAINE’ 8 p.m. The Cabrillo Playhouse presents Almost, Maine. In the play, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in the strangest ways on one cold Friday night. Show runs through May 14.

Tickets are $15-$20. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465.

DOHENY STATE BEACH ANNUAL GRUNION NIGHT 9:30 p.m. Join a guided nature talk about grunion at Doheny State Beach to celebrate the grunion’s return. The Doheny State Beach Interpretive Center will open at 8:30 p.m. for those who wish to visit.

Guests are asked to meet between picnic sites A and B, near the entrance of the park. Doheny State Beach. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

Saturday | 13 WHALE WALK AND TALK 9 a.m. The walk focuses on the “gentle giants” that can be seen from the Dana Point Headlands. The walk occurs the (Cont. on page 19) Page 17

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 17) second Saturday of the month. The two-mile walk begins at the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. RSVP to dpnaturalresources@danapoint.org or call 949.248.3527. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point.

REPLACE YOUR LAWN WORKSHOP 9:30-10:30 a.m. The first step to transitioning to a more sustainable garden is to remove your water-hungry lawn. The next step is learning how to create and care for your native garden. Tree of Life Nursery owner Mike Evans teaches this informative workshop. Tree of Life Nursery. 33201 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

SMART GARDENING 101: BACKYARD BEES 9:30-11 a.m. Learn about backyard bees at a free class during the 2017 Smart Gardening 101 Series with Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens and the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Master Gardeners. Reata Park and Event Center.

28632 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano.

949.606.6704. www.goinnative.net.

FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION OUTDOOR SHOW & SALE: MARCH 13-14 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association (DPFAA) will host their outdoor art show along the harbor boardwalk and along the dock in Mariner’s Village. There will displays of artwork in watercolor, oil, acrylic, colored pencil, pastels and photography by many artists. The artwork will be available for purchase. The event is weather permitting and no make-up date will be arranged. www.danapointfinearts.org. Dana Point.

CAPT. DAVE’S MOTHER’S DAY WHALE WATCHING CRUISE: MARCH 13-14 9:30 a.m. Join Capt. Dave’s on Mother’s Day for a whale watching adventure.

With the purchase of a ticket, a donation will be made to Kids Around the Word, a nonprofit helping children and families who have been affected by war, poverty, illness and natural disasters. Moms will receive a rose and a glass of champagne during the 2.5 hour tour. Capt. Dave’s

Whale Watching Safari. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.488.2828. www.dolphinsafari.com.

THE DISH

BEEF BURRITOS FROM LISA AND PEDRO

G

ood things come in little packages, and at the Swallow’s Inn in San Juan Capistrano, it comes just like that.

As the undergarments with signatures dangle from above, along with other Western hoopla and tradition, the atmosphere is cozy and comforting.

Lisa’s Kitchen and Pedro’s Cocina is nestled in the back of the bar, where breakfast, lunch and dinner is served.

Beef or chicken burritos are served in four small quadrants. The carne asada was more tender than wool and the beans were cooked to a pleasing texture. Salsa rojo or verde are always the options. The red salsa was spicy enough not to deter even sensitive palates.

There’s a certain balance to the Mexican

GARDENING CLASS: CONTAINER AND PATIO 10 a.m. Explore the basics of container gardening and learn how to grow your own organic food in raised beds, veggie boxes and pots. Tickets are $20 for members, $30 for non-members. The Ecology Center. 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.443.4223. www.theecologycenter.org/.

DANA WHARF MOTHER’S DAY WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m. Join Dana Wharf on Mother’s Day for a whale watching trip. Moms will receive a complimentary “MOMosa” or champagne during the trip. Tickets range from $29-$49. Reserve today online at www.danawharf.com or call 949.496.5794x7. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

MOTHER’S DAY FASHION TEA 1:30-3:30 p.m. Enjoy a high tea with fashion vignettes, designer raffle prizes and more at the Monarch Beach Resort. Reservations are required. Tickets are $69 per person and includes the high tea experience and a gift bag. For reservations call 949.234.3423. 33 Degree North Restaurant, Monarch Beach Resort. 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point. www.monarchbeachresort.com.

MOTHER’S DAY MACRAME WORKSHOP 2-4 p.m. Bring your mom for a crafty community event. The workshop will include instruction and materials. Cost is $60 per person, $100 for pairs. iHeartYoga.34485 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.com. 949.363.3152.

MONARCHS OF JAZZ 7 p.m. Listen to jazz music presented by vocalists Oleta Adams, saxman Warren Hill and keyboardist Brian Simpson at Monarch Beach Resort. Tickets range from $70 to $105. To purchase tickets, visit www.monarchbeachresort.com.

1 Monarch Beach Resort. 949.234.3200.

DANA POINT SYMPHONY 7:30 p.m. The Dana Point Symphony will close out their season with Theme Russe.

Guests can listen to songs from some of Russia’s most-loved composers. Ignazio Terrasi, a guest conductor from the LA Opera will lead the final performance. To purchase tickets, visit www.danapointsymphony.com. St. Edward’s Church. 33926 Calle La Primavera. Dana Point.

Sunday | 14 GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park. Parking is $5; the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

DRIVING MIZ DAISY MARKET 8 a.m.-3 p.m. The vintage market offers a variety of vendors that sell antiques, restored items, local items and more. The market also offers a number of gourmet food trucks. There will be live music and a farmers’ market. Saddleback College.

food staple that demands a serving have just enough of each: tomato, lettuce, peppers (optional) and salsa. The tangerine slices were also a fun and unique addition.

Gourmet and finer bar food is becoming more popular, and Lisa’s Kitchen and Pedro’s Cocina has found a winning combination.

Lisa’s Kitchen & Pedro’s Cocina Swallow’s Inn, 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano 949.493.3188 | www.swallowsinn.com

28000 Margerite Parkway, Mission Viejo.

949.422.0432. www.drivingmizdaisy.com.

MOTHER’S DAY WHALE WATCHING CRUISE 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Hop aboard the Ocean Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer for a Mother’s Day whale watching excursion. Cookies, pastries and tea will be provided. Tickets range from $25-$45. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

BEND & BREW 11:30 a.m. iHeartYoga holds a Bend & Brew session at Left Coast Brewing Company’s tasting room in San Clemente. It’s a one-hour yoga class followed by a pint of beer. Admission $10. 1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente.

949.363.3152. www.iheartyoga.com.

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90-minute evening cruise aboard the luxury catamaran. The cruises run Friday and Sunday evenings. Tickets are $49. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

(Cont. on page 20)

At the Movies: ‘Guardians of the Galaxy,’ Vol. 2 Is a Blast

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

G

uardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 2 is the least Marvel-esque movie Marvel Studios has ever made. Though nothing from the studio has yet to surpass Iron Man (2008) as far as quality, the Guardians sequel to the light-hearted space adventure from 2014 is fresh and different from anything adapted from a comic book to film in years.

After coming together as an intergalactic superhero team in the previous story, Peter ‘StarLord’ Quill (Chris Pratt),

Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

Gamora (Zoe Saldana), Drax (Dave Bautista), Rocket (Bradley Cooper) and Groot (Vin Diesel) are back to save the universe again, but on a more personal level. The high priestess, Ayesha (Elizabeth Debicki), wants them gone for acts she believes are unethical, and an old man (Kurt Russell) from the planet Ego claims to be Peter’s long lost father.

Guardians 2 is a step up visually: the cinematic cosmos is eye candy to behold on screen with vibrant color schemes and special effects. Gunn’s script is fun and

humorous, but also heavy and deep in sentiment. Russell and Pom Klementieff fit right in with the returning cast, and Karen Gillan is even more badass as Gamora’s sister Nebula. Peter’s second classic rock mixtape is just as catchy as last time, and most importantly, Gunn and crew don’t feel it necessary to try and shoe-in any Avengers connections while doing their own thing.

The jokes are bit too juvenile, and they’d mainly be appreciated by middle-schoolers.

But since that is Marvel’s demographic, mission accomplished. DP

Page 19

Photo: Chuck Zlotnick/©Marvel Studios 2017

www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 19)

Monday | 15

cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.

FREE GUITAR LESSONS 5-6 p.m. Free beginner acoustic guitar lessons for middle school to college students every Monday. Guitars provided or students can bring their own. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

MIXOLOGY UNIVERSITY 7 p.m. Every Wednesday, Waterman’s Harbor bartenders and mixology experts teach guests how to make the restaurant’s cocktails. Guests will have the opportunity to make and taste three cocktails.

Event is $25. Waterman’s Harbor. 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this summer. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S 9:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s with food and drink specials. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

Tuesday | 16

Thursday | 18

HALF-PRICE WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Hop onboard this two-hour cruise to see dolphins, whales and other marine life in the wild. $22.50. Half price on Tuesdays but trips are available every day of the week. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Every Thursday. Join Goin’ Native Therapeutic Gardens volunteers, students and teachers at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano. Help care for and maintain native plants and butterflies while enjoying a little dirt therapy and friendship. No experience needed. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

READ TO A DOG 3 p.m. Children can read to therapy dogs who love to listen to stories at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.

OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. Bring your instrument and your voice; The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

LECTURE SERIES: DANGEROUS SNAKES OF ORANGE COUNTY 7-8:30 p.m. Learn about the dangerous snakes of Orange County, how to identify them, where they live and what to do if you encounter one. Steve Bledsoe, a local herpetologist, will lead the presentation. The lecture is for ages 8 and up. Register online at www.rmvreserve.org. The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778.

KARAOKE AT GOODY’S 8 p.m. Karaoke every Tuesday night at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente.

206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.

Wednesday | 17 FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB 2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No Page 20

JAZZ NIGHT OUT 6:30-10 p.m. Enjoy a night of music while benefiting CREER, an after school and summer program. Dean Grech and Greg Vail with their band will perform during the evening. Tickets are $30 for concert admission, $60 includes a buffet Italian dinner and $100 includes VIP dinner experience and a CD. To purchase tickets, visit www. eventbrite.com/e/dean-grech-greg-vailband-benefiting-creer-tickets-33032304512.

San Juan Hills Golf Club. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano.

SEA DRINKS: LECTURE WITH DR. CHRIS LOWE 7-10 p.m. Dr. Chris Lowe will speak about his work with Shark Lab and answer questions regarding the increase in shark activity off the coast. Sea Drinks meets once a month at local restaurants and bars to discuss and raise awareness of environmental issues that threaten the ocean ecosystem. A $10 donation is recommended to benefit Shark Lab. This month’s location is Hennessey’s Tavern.

34111 La Plaza, Dana Point.

SESSIONS AT STILLWATER 7 p.m. Listen to live music when artists from around the world perform together.

Stillwater Spirits and Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.com.

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to Dana Point Times by going to www.danapointtimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

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

Portugal: The Algarve Region and 120 Miles of Beaches

W

hen tourists travel, they often try to see too many sites in the limited time they have. Hence, they might overlook interesting items in the area where they are staying. Such is the case in the Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, where my partner Greta and I are spending the first two weeks of May. Normally, we like to travel between European cities by train, but in the Algarve, trains are limited. So, we rented a car out of necessity to reach the private home where we are staying, and to visit the beach cities of the Algarve, which has 120 miles of beautiful coastline.

The home, called Casa Sams, is remotely located in the hills above the town of Estoi, five miles from Faro, the main city and capital of the Algarve. To reach the home, there are left turns, right turns, hairpin turns, a pack of friendly but wild dogs and a myriad of unmarked singlelane, unpaved roads.

We’ve been here a week and haven’t made it up the hill in 10 attempts without making at least one wrong turn. But, the view is panoramic of the ocean and the property is on five acres of orange trees and olive trees.

There are so many beautiful beach cities within 30 miles to the east and west, and we immediately started exploring them.

On May 1, International Workers’ Day, we drove to Tavira, a fishing village. Its sidewalk cafes were packed. We thought we’d give Portuguese food a try and ordered sardines. I ate two of the five on my plate and that was enough for me.

Driving to the next port city, Olhao,

we saw all kinds of stuffed mannequins along the side of the road, with people stopping their cars to admire them. It was the strangest thing we’ve ever seen. We learned via the Internet later that those stuffed mannequins were to honor International Workers’ Day, and they were unique to, pretty much, only that portion of the road we were on in all of Portugal. We hit it big, just by coincidence—right time, right day and right road.

Our favorite beach city is Vilamoura.

It has a horseshoe-shaped marina with hundreds of fancy yachts in the center.

We estimate there are at least 70 upscale restaurants, including three Irish pubs, facing the yachts.

Even more restaurants are on the beach boardwalk with access from the marina. We had lunch ON LIFE AND at Buzios Beach Café.

LOVE AFTER 50 In the city of Portimao,

By Tom Blake the beach had more than 200 sand volleyball courts. We watched women’s and men’s doubles tournaments.

We enjoyed the action while having lunch at a beach café there.

On the way home, we visited another beach city, Albuferia. It is well-known for cakes made with almonds. These are so tasty it’s mind-boggling.

The olive oil, seafood, olives, oranges, pastries, bread, cheese and wine in Portugal are delectable. Great wine is less than five euros (approx. $5.00) per bottle.

On our fifth day, we decided to walk around Estoi, the closest town to us. It

Pet of the Week: Trentino

T

rentino was only 8 weeks old when he first arrived at the shelter in January 2011, Sadly, he recently also lost his sister rabbit and is now looking for another companion. Trentino is a sweet, calm rabbit who is used to being handled. He has excellent litter box habits and would be a real joy to have around the house. If you would like to know more about Trentino, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente.

Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

Trentino. Photo: San Clemente/ Dana Point Animal Shelter

Page 22

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s 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

appeared to be sleepy, not much there.

We saw a sign describing a palace, hidden away. We tried to get to it, but there were walls all around and gates were padlocked.

On a deserted back street, a couple walked by us, and said in an English accent, “It’s worth going inside, we can show you the way.” Tony and Josephine were from Manchester, England.

The ancient palace had been converted into a hotel. It was beautiful inside. There were hand painted murals by Italian artists on the ceilings throughout the main floor of the hotel.

Also in Estoi, there are Roman ruins dating from the 3rd century A.D. This is a perfect example of trying to see too much elsewhere and missing wonderful things right where you are staying.

That night, we met Tony and Josephine for dinner at a local restaurant that Greta and I had driven past several times, thinking it was just for villagers. It was Tony’s 58th birthday. The dinner was delicious and reasonable.

As we concluded our first week in the Algarve, Greta suggested we explore Faro, the nearby city where we had only shopped for groceries.

See the solution in next week’s issue.

We did not realize that it also had a wonderful marina and historic district. Why had we overlooked a city so close to us?

Faro has its unique characteristics: within the large Carmo Church, there is a chapel constructed out of the bones of 1,245 deceased monks. A little morbid, but that’s what makes travel so interesting.

Also in Faro, storks from the nearby Ria Formosa nature preserve build their nests on top of churches and buildings for protection. There were four nests built out of sizeable tree branches atop the Town Arch leading into the old city. The preserve is one of the most important areas for aquatic birds in Portugal.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites at www.findingloveafter50.com; www.vicsta.com and www. travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com or email at tompblake@ 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

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Dolphin Report

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Newport Harbor Sweeps Dolphins in Volleyball Playoff Opener The Dana Hills boys volleyball team’s run through the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs came to an abrupt end after a first-round sweep at the hands of Newport Harbor on May 9.

Newport Harbor was powered by Cole Pender’s 15 kills in a 25-15, 25-15, 25-20 three-set win

Softball Sweeps Away Competition to Claim League Title The Dana Hills softball team ran the table playing against Sea View League competition, finishing the regular season with a perfect 8-0 record after beating Tesoro 7-3 on May 8.

Dolphins’ starter Serafine Parrish threw a complete game gem, while Mia Onesto and Tori Sickmeier both went 2 for 3 at

Dana Hills pitcher Hans Crouse pitched a complete game and struck out 13 in a 2-1 loss to San Juan Hills on May 9. Photo: Steve Breazeale

the plate to lead the offense. The win was the Dolphins’ (16-12, 8-0 league) ninth in a row.

Parrish tossed seven innings, allowing three runs on four hits. She did not allow a walk and struck out eight. Onesto and Sickmeier both had two RBI, and the Dolphins’ lineup produced 12 hits.

The Dolphins will head into the upcoming CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs as the league’s No. 1 representative. The playoff brackets will be released on May 15.

Baseball Playing for Playoff Berth

The Dana Hills baseball team’s May 11 Sea View League game against San Juan Hills carried with it tons of playoff seeding

implications. Results of the game were not available at press time.

A win would have earned Dana Hills (15-14, 6-5) a second-place finish in league.

A Dana Hills loss would see the Stallions leapfrog the Dolphins in the standings, and Dana Hills would finish third.

Win or lose, Dana Hills is guaranteed at least a third-place finish, which means they would qualify for a spot in the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs. The Dolphins own the season tiebreaker over Tesoro (12-14, 5-6).

The Stallions forced their way into the final game showdown by defeating Dana Hills at home, 2-1, on May 9. Stallions senior starting pitcher Bryan Pope pitched well, matching Dana Hills’ ace starter Hans Crouse frame for frame. Pope hurled six shutout innings, allowing two hits while issuing two walks.

The Stallions’ bats got to Crouse in the

first inning, when a fielding error plated a runner from second. San Juan Hills scored the go-ahead run in the fi fth when Dylan Riley scored on a Connor Glenn sacrifice fly.

Crouse also turned in a solid performance, but was saddled with the loss. The standout right-hander threw a complete game, scattering four hits and no walks while striking out 13.

Dana Hills had a chance to tie the game in the sixth inning when cleanup hitter Joe DeBaca hit a long fly ball to the warning track with a runner on second, but Stallions’ centerfielder Carson Lewis made a diving catch for the inning-ending out.

Dolphins’ catcher Cameron Crugnale recorded his second hit of the day in the seventh inning, and he stole second base to give the Dolphins a runner in scoring position. But the Dolphins’ bats could not cash in and the team dropped its third straight league contest.

Boys Tennis Advances to CIFSS Second Round

The Dana Hills and Temecula Valley boys tennis teams were tied 9-9 after the end of their CIF-SS Division 2 first-round playoff matchup on May 10. As a result, the match was decided by a game count, rather than by sets.

Dana Hills’ 85 games won bested Temecula Valley’s 65, ensuring the Dolphins’ season would continue.

Dana Hills (11-7) will host Martin Luther King (16-3) out of the Big VIII League in the second round of the playoffs on May 12.

Dana Point Yacht Club Shines Senior Hoopers Set to Annual Basketball at Newport to Ensenada Race Host Tournament DANA POINT TIMES

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he Dana Point Yacht Club had a stellar showing at the annual Newport to Ensenada Race on April 28. The race is a 125-nautical-mile journey from Newport Beach to Mexico.

The local club had 18 boats in the field and won several of the event’s most prestigious trophies.

The club won the perpetual trophy for most entries (18), most first-place finishes (nine) and most overall trophies (11).

Dana Point Yacht Club vessels that claimed first-place trophies in their class included: Timeshaver, Yippee Kai Yay, Gray Goose, Bon Vivant, Freedom, Paramethia and Soul Mate. Second- and third-place winners included Warrior and Cabernet Sky. The club raised money to donate to several Mexican charities, including El Sauzal Orphange, Casa Hogar del Anciano de

Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

T

Dana Point Yacht Club Commodore Mike Hatcher, left, and Bob Perdue pose with trophies won by the club at the Newport to Ensenada Race.

Photo: Courtesy

Ensenada, a senior home and infant clinic, and Hospital General de Ensenada.

he sights and sounds inside the basketball gym at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center are the same ones you’d expect to see anywhere in the world. There are quick passes, cuts to the basket, turnaround jumpers, and occasional trash-talking swirling around simultaneously as players run up and down the two courts.

But the athletes in the local gym three times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings are not your average pickup players.

The Capo Classics are a senior basketball group, made up of players ranging from ages 60 to 85. They have been playing in the community center’s gym for nearly 10 years, and on May 12, starting at 11 a.m., they will hold their annual Capo Classics Tournament at the local gym.

Page 24

Eight teams of four are slated to compete throughout the day. The teams have been sorted into two divisions: the “juniors” and the “seniors”. The juniors are players ages 60 to 70, while the seniors are 70 and up. The tournament will also feature a 3-point contest.

The Capo Classics are a tight-knit group of roughly 30 local players that have known each other for decades and live primarily in the tri-city area. Their ranks are made up of retired businessmen, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and almost all of them are former athletes who satisfy the itch of competition by playing in the weekly games.

“It’s really a fraternity of guys who get together and have recreation as well as social interaction,” said Capistrano Beach resident and group organizer Larry Rolapp. “It’s a very, very positive thing for seniors.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Etiquette of Surfing

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 60-63 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-7’ Poor-Fair

Violating decorum of the lineup can cause bad vibes

Outlook: Small South swell and NW swell mix for waist high surf through the weekend with sets to chest high at standouts. Southerly winds expected at light to moderate levels.

Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

L

ast week at Salt Creek there was an incident in which a kid popped off to an older guy after being called out for “snaking” or “burning” him repeatedly.

The kid was subsequently “dunked” for his apparent lack of respect. His mother, who was on the beach at the time, reported the incident to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, which responded en mass with a boat, a helicopter and numerous patrol cars. In previous generations, an altercation like this would have reverberated like passing gas in the wind. When it came to localized lineups, there was a clear pecking order in place; and for those who disregarded it, they were quickly educated.

Those days are dead and gone.

Today there are more surfers in the water than ever. With the growth in surf schools, scholastic surf teams and the overall rise in popularity of the sport, spots like Salt Creek and Trestles are more impacted than ever. In the case of the incident at Salt Creek, which we won’t delve into much further, all involved parties share a portion of the blame. When the guiding rules of surfing are not respected and adhered to, things like this are bound to happen.

It actually happens quite frequently—just without the absurd police response. Bad vibes in the water are easily mitigated by embracing better etiquette.

“There will always be another wave,” writes Shaun Tomson in his book The Surfer’s Code.

If there was ever one concept that could halt the ugliness of localism it is this. Surfing is nothing more than just riding waves.

GROM OF THE WEEK

KADE MATSON

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

o say San Clemente’s Kade Matson is the best grom in the world would not be an understatement. Last week at the International Rip Curl GromSearch Final in Maresias, Sao Paulo, Brazil, the Lowers regular took out a

Dana Point Times May 12-18, 2017

Surfers at Salt Creek beach. Photo: Van Swae

Besides taking a break from the workaday world and maybe some spiritual satisfaction, it’s a completely unproductive pursuit. We shouldn’t need to escape from our escape.

Wind blows across the ocean, swells are created, and if we’re lucky we’re be able to catch and ride one of them for a few seconds. And if we’re not, no stress; just sit out the back and wait for another. Waves are free. It’s that simple. Don’t make it an ego trip.

“I think we have to teach a lot of these kids to first be gentlemen,” prophetically stated the great Duke Kahanamoku. “Try to help one another and not hog the doggone waves.”

That brings us to the next concept: respect. At its core surfing is about developing a respect for the ocean, as well as fellow watermen and women. Whether it’s surviving a huge wave or dodging a huge shark, the ocean commands respect. When we paddle out we’re all in the brine together.

Treat your fellow surfer the way you would want to be treated. Do you want people dropping in on you? Probably not. So don’t do it to other people. Just don’t.

When an angry surfer yells, “That was my wave!” they’re full of it. Nobody owns the waves or the beaches. Share a

talented field of international competitors to earn the first major title of his blossoming career. On the podium, world champ Gabriel Medina handed the stoked 14-yearold his first-place trophy.

“That moment when I started thinking ‘I might be able to win this thing’ was awesome,” said an elated Matson. “You always go in to an event with the mindset you can win it, but being so young, I didn’t have too many expectations. I’m so stoked right now! This is definitely the biggest accomplishment in my career so far.”

“

Today there are more surfers in the water than ever. With the growth in surf schools, scholastic surf teams and the overall rise in popularity of the sport, spots like Salt Creek and Trestles are more impacted than ever. wave and you’re apt to get an even better one in return. And the reverse, if you’re surfing somewhere new, have respect for the people that surf there every day.

Understand that breaks like Lowers and Salt Creek are under extreme pressure due to unrelenting, increasing crowds. For the guys and girls who call it home, a little room to breathe goes a long way.

Besides the cardinal sin of dropping in on somebody, there are other important rules to consider. Always respect a surfer’s

right of way. Whoever is closest to the peak gets the wave, plain and simple. Don’t snake them and say something stupid like, “Oh, I didn’t see you.” That’s how fights start. Be smart, be aware and look before taking off.

When paddling out, don’t stroke straight through the lineup. Instead take the long way out so you don’t get in anybody’s way.

It’ll be safer for everyone this away. And similarly, don’t ditch your board when a wave’s coming. Letting go of your board can be incredibly dangerous for the other surfers in the area. You may get sent through the rinse cycle, but it’s better than the fin of your board scalping the poor guy that’s paddling behind you.

And just like respecting your fellow surfers, respect the environment. Make it a habit to pick up five pieces of trash every time you hit the beach. Get involved in local beach clean-ups. Take a stand against toll roads and nuclear waste. Do your part to ensure that future generations of waveriders will be able to enjoy the spot as much as you have. In other words, leave the world a better place than you found it.

Summer’s only a month away. We only have one Pacific Ocean. Let’s all learn to play nice. DP

One of the youngest competitors in the event, Matson originally qualified for the National GromSearch Series in the 14 and under division, but thanks to locally grown skills, he was given the opportunity to compete as an alternate in the age group above him. Seizing on his good fortune, he charged to a national final win and qualified for the international final in Brazil. In Maresias, against all odds, he blitzed through the best up-and-coming kids in the world to be crowned 2017 International GromSearch Champion. DP

Kade Matson. Photo: Courtesy

”

Page 26

—Jake Howard

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